Goaltender Brandon Bussi authored a memorable first in his young NHL career, turning aside every shot he faced to backstop the Carolina Hurricanes to a narrow 1-0 overtime victory against the visiting Calgary Flames. The game, played at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Sunday, November 30, 2025, was decided by Nikolaj Ehlers in the extra frame.
A Goaltending Duel Decided in Extra Time
The contest evolved into a tense defensive battle, with scoring chances at a premium for both sides. Brandon Bussi was perfect for Carolina, making 15 saves to record his first career NHL shutout. His counterpart for Calgary, while not credited with the loss, was equally stout, forcing the game into overtime with the score deadlocked at zero.
The defensive effort was a collective one for the Hurricanes. A key moment came in the first period when defenseman K'Andre Miller disrupted a dangerous Flames opportunity, stripping the puck from Joel Farabee directly in front of Bussi's crease. This play, captured by AP photographer Karl DeBlaker, exemplified the tight-checking nature of the game.
Ehlers Ends the Deadlock
With neither team able to break through in regulation, the game proceeded to three-on-three overtime. It was there that Danish winger Nikolaj Ehlers finally solved the goaltending puzzle, netting the game-winning goal to secure the two points for the home team. The goal sent the Raleigh crowd home happy and capped off a night defined by Bussi's milestone performance between the pipes.
Significance of the Victory
This hard-fought win provides a boost for the Hurricanes in the competitive NHL standings. For Brandon Bussi, the shutout marks a significant personal achievement and a strong statement in his development as an NHL goaltender. For the Flames, it was a game of missed opportunities and a tough loss despite a solid defensive road game. The result underscores the fine margins in today's NHL, where a single stellar performance in net or one moment of offensive brilliance can decide the outcome.
