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Hurricanes Reveal Big Injury Update on Jalen Chatfield

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated May 21, 2025 3:33 PM ET

The Carolina Hurricanes fell to the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final. Despite playing the game at home, Carolina wasn't able to muster up the same energy as the defending champions to get the win.

The Hurricanes will have a big chance to tie the series in Game 2, but they could be forced to do so without one of their stars. Defender Jalen Chatfield missed Game 1 due to injury and is now in danger of missing Game 2 as well.

Chatfield is being listed as questionable for the game due to a nondisclosed injury. The defender was on the ice for the Hurricanes' morning skate, but will need to be cleared to play.

Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour gave more of an update on the status of his star defender.

“All the athletes want to play; if they’re not capable, they’re not capable,” Brind’Amour said. “I think today he is better. I would put him more day to day now, so that’s a good sign.”

The Hurricanes missed his presence on the ice against the Panthers, so the hope is that he can return in Game 2. Chatfield has scored one goal over the nine playoff games for the Hurricanes this postseason.

During the regular season, he scored seven goals and 11 assists. But his defensive abilities are crucial to the success of this team.

If he can't go, others will need to step up in his absence. Scott Morrow took over for him in Game 1 and posted a -3 rating in 12 minutes of game action.

Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, at 8 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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