Charles Alexis Legault Set for NHL Debut with Hurricanes

LAS VEGAS – Defenseman Charles Alexis Legault will make his NHL debut on Monday when the Carolina Hurricanes face the Vegas Golden Knights. The 22-year-old will step into the lineup following an injury to Shayne Gostisbehere, who ‘tweaked something’ in Saturday’s win over Los Angeles.

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour reassured fans that Gostisbehere’s ailment ‘isn’t serious,’ but it will keep him out of tonight’s game. Legault, a smooth and defensive-minded skater, is embarking on his second pro season after being drafted by the Hurricanes in 2023.

Last season, Legault played 63 games with the Chicago Wolves of the AHL and started this season with a game for them before being recalled. ‘He’s matured so well,’ Brind’Amour noted during the morning skate. ‘He has the physical attributes – he’s big, strong, can skate – but this early in the season, it’s an earned call-up based on the work he put in this summer and during training camp.’

Legault is familiar with the Hurricanes’ locker room, having participated in five of their six exhibition games. ‘I thought his game suited really well for being ready to play at this level,’ Brind’Amour added. ‘It’s probably the toughest test you could have as a debut, but it’s a great one to remember.’

The Hurricanes will look to preserve their perfect start this season, boasting a record of 5-0-0, while the Golden Knights come into the game with a 4-0-2 record. The matchup takes place at T-Mobile Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the game on ESPN+.

In other lineup news, Frederik Andersen is expected to return in goal for Carolina. Andersen, who holds a record of 3-0-0 with a 2.27 goals-against average and .899 save percentage, was stellar in the previous game against Anaheim, stopping 23 of 24 shots.