The Canes have a strong third period to pick up the game one win over the Islanders.
After a somewhat slow first two periods, the Carolina Hurricanes were able to generate more chances in the third and ended up defeating the New York Islanders, 3-1 in game one of their best of seven playoff series.
Frederik Andersen had some help as his defense cleaned up a couple of rebounds and loose pucks , but he played very well as he made 33 saves on 34 shots for the win.
Andrei Svechnikov did not get on the scoresheet but was all over the ice and made his presence known. He led his team with six shots on goal and also chipped in with three hits.
Seth Jarvis also had three hits and led all Carolina players with 20:38 of ice time.
Jordan Staal was in “playoff mode” and had a team high seven hits. The Canes outhit the Isles 23-17 for the game.
The Hurricanes jumped out to an early lead when Evgeny Kuznetsov wristed in a perfect shot in the top corner just 11 seconds into a Carolina powerplay and 1:35 into the game.
The Islanders were able to tie it up a bit later in the period.
The second period seemed to be all New York as they outshot the Canes, 13-6, but neither team could find the net.
In the third period the home team came out with more energy and created a few scoring chances.
Stefan Noesen would notch the eventual game-winner with the put-back of a rebound early in the third and the Canes did not look back.
Near the end, Martin Necas won a battle on the boards and sent the puck to an empty net from center ice to close out the scoring.
When asked after the game, Brind’Amour gave a ton of credit to Andersen.
“He’s the difference in the game, obviously. He made countless saves tonight that kept us in it.”
Both teams will battle again in game two starting at 7:30 on Monday night.
Game Notes:
- The Canes won 59% of their faceoffs. Staal was at 69%, Kuznetsov 58%, and Kotkaniemi 56%.
- They officially went (1-3) on the powerplay and did not allow a goal on the kill, (0-2).
Game Summary – https://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20232024/GS030141.HTM
Event Summary – https://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20232024/ES030141.HTM