Why did Antti Raanta exit game against Edmonton Oilers? Hurricanes HC explains reason behind netminder's departure

Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Antti Raanta's departure from Wednesday's game against the Edmonton Oilers was described by Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour as a precautionary measure.

Antti Raanta left the game after the first period due to feeling "something a little funny" in his lower body, prompting the coaching staff to prioritize player safety over potential risks.

"He said he felt something a little funny. Nothing serious we didn't think, but we didn't want to take a chance. So precautionary, really," explained Coach Brind'Amour.

Previously boasting a 5-2 record with a 2.88 goals-against average and a .885 save percentage, Raanta's absence adds to the goaltending challenges for the Hurricanes, who are already without Frederik Andersen due to a blood clotting issue.

As Antti Raanta left the game with the Hurricanes leading 4-1, Pyotr Kochetkov stepped in to take over goaltending duties for the remainder of the match. Looking ahead, if Raanta's injury extends beyond Wednesday, Kochetkov is poised to assume the primary goaltending role.

Additionally, there's the possibility of calling up Yaniv Perets from the ECHL as an emergency depth option. The Hurricanes, faced with the dual absence of Andersen and Raanta, now confront the task of maintaining a formidable presence in the net during this uncertain period.

Antti Raanta's journey from Finland to the NHL

His recent performances for the Carolina Hurricanes include a notable victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Nov 18, making 28 saves with a .929 save percentage.

Raanta's journey to the NHL began in his native Finland, where he excelled in the Finnish Elite League with Lukko and Assat. The 2012-13 season marked a standout year for him, leading the league in goals-against average and save percentage, earning accolades such as the Lasse Oksanen Award for the league's best player and the Urpo Ylonen Award as the top goalie.

Upon joining the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013, Raanta quickly made an impact, starting with a win against the Calgary Flames in his debut. He continued to impress, earning a shutout in his rookie season.

Traded to the New York Rangers in 2015, Raanta maintained his stellar performance, boasting an 11-6-2 record with a 2.24 GAA and .919 save percentage. A subsequent trade to the Arizona Coyotes in 2017 saw him achieve a 21-17-6 record with a remarkable .930 save percentage.

In 2021, Antti Raanta signed with the Hurricanes, contributing to the team's success by winning the William M. Jennings Trophy alongside Frederik Andersen. The dynamic duo allowed the fewest goals in the league during the regular season, solidifying Raanta's reputation as a reliable goaltender.