The Carolina Hurricanes kept their playoff dreams alive on Monday night with a commanding 3–0 win over the Florida Panthers, avoiding a clean sweep and forcing Game 5 in the Eastern Conference Final.
Carolina goaltender Frederik Andersen was in top form, stopping all 20 shots he faced in Sunrise, Florida. The shutout was Andersen’s second of the postseason and a welcome comeback after struggling in the opening games of the series.
It was a long-overdue win for the Hurricanes, who had not claimed a victory in the East Final since 2006. Their previous attempts ended in sweeps at the hands of Pittsburgh in 2009, Boston in 2019 and Florida in 2023.
“We left it all out there,” said Andersen. “We were closer to our identity tonight. When we play like that, we are a tough team to beat.”
Logan Stankoven opened the scoring with a superb finish midway through the second period after receiving a pinpoint backhand pass from Alexander Nikishin. The goal marked Carolina’s first lead of the series and gave them the momentum they desperately needed.
Sebastian Aho and Jordan Staal sealed the result with two empty-net goals late in the third period.
Despite the loss, Panthers coach Paul Maurice praised Carolina’s hunger and intensity. “They were sharp, blocked shots and closed gaps fast. Credit to them. They wanted it more tonight.”
Florida was missing key players, including Sam Reinhart, who is out with a lower-body injury. The Panthers are still in control of the series with a 3–1 lead, but Carolina’s performance has put them back in the fight.
Game 5 will be played in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Wednesday night (early Thursday morning South African time).
Carolina showed they are still very much in this series. With momentum now on their side, the Eastern Conference Final just became a lot more interesting.
Photo: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images
