Nov 20, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Carolina Hurricanes left wing William Carrier (28) against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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Carolina Hurricanes William Carrier Faces Extended Absence After Surgery

William Carrier undergoes surgery, sidelining him for the long term as the Hurricanes navigate a challenging season without the forward.

Nov 20, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Carolina Hurricanes left wing William Carrier (28) against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Carolina Hurricanes forward William Carrier has undergone surgery for a lower-body injury and will be out for a significant amount of time, likely at least two months. Head coach Rod Brind’Amour confirmed the news, as reported by Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer, with hopes that Carrier can return before the end of the season.

This marks a tough beginning for Carrier’s time with the Hurricanes after signing a six-year, $12 million contract last summer. The 30-year-old had high expectations after a strong 2022-23 season with the Vegas Golden Knights, where he scored 16 goals and helped them win the Stanley Cup. Unfortunately, his production with Carolina has been modest, with just four goals and nine points in 39 games.

Hurricanes' William Carrier Out Long Term After Surgeryhttps://t.co/HHQ8i6y4Yf
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) January 24, 2025

Also Read: Pittsburgh Penguins Bryan Rust Listed Day-To-Day With Lower-Body Injury

Injuries continue to be an issue for Carrier, who missed significant time last season due to upper-body problems. Although his current injury isn’t related, it highlights his growing susceptibility to injuries, likely due to his physical playing style. Carrier leads the Hurricanes in hits this season, racking up an impressive 136 hits at a rate of 18.01 per 60 minutes.

Despite his struggles, Carrier has been effective in other ways. Playing alongside Jordan Martinook and Jordan Staal on the third line, the trio controlled nearly 66% of expected goals at even strength, according to MoneyPuck.

In Carrier’s absence, the Hurricanes will look to depth players like call-up Juha Jaaska, who has shown promise in his first seven NHL games with an assist and a solid plus-one rating.

Image Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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William Carrier

Anamika Shrivastava

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