Rookie Goalie’s Historic Cup Run

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 26, 2026 · 1m

The Carolina Hurricanes just won their first Stanley Cup in 20 years, crushing Vegas 3-0 in the final game. Veteran Jordan Staal, at 37, became the oldest Conn Smythe winner and the longest-tenured player between titles in NHL history. But the real breakout star? Rookie goalie Brandon Bussi, an undrafted free agent who stepped in for the final three games after starter Frederik Andersen’s injury. Bussi shut down Vegas in Game 7, stopping every shot, becoming only the sixth rookie goalie in modern NHL history to hoist the Cup. From the minors to the championship, Bussi’s unlikely rise proves…