Jesperi Kotkaniemi not playing as Hurricanes near Stanley Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 1:31 PM
Last updated Jun 13, 2026
Carolina Hurricanes center Jesperi Kotkaniemi remains sidelined as the team is one victory away from winning the Stanley Cup. He has not participated in the postseason and has faced limited ice time throughout the regular season. Discussions are emerging regarding his future with the team, with potential trade or buyout options reportedly available this offseason. The Hurricanes will focus on their championship ambitions before addressing Kotkaniemi's status.
- •Kotkaniemi has not dressed for any playoff game this year.
- •Hurricanes are one win away from clinching the Stanley Cup.
- •Trade or buyout possibilities for Kotkaniemi are being considered this offseason.
- •He remains healthy but has struggled to find trust from the coaching staff.
- •Carolina has strong asset depth, allowing potential sweeteners in a trade.
- 1:31 PMYahoo Sports — Where is Jesperi Kotkaniemi? Why Hurricanes' center could soon be on new NHL team after Stanley Cup
"Carolina is a win away from hoisting the Cup. Kotkaniemi isn't even playing.
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