RALEIGH, N.C. — In an exciting matchup on Saturday night, Jackson Blake netted a power-play goal with 9:17 left on the clock, allowing the Carolina Hurricanes to take the lead as they triumphed over the New Jersey Devils with a score of 5-2.
Jack Roslovic was instrumental in the victory, contributing two goals during the intense game. Carolina’s strong third period was highlighted by additional scores from Dmitry Orlov and Sebastian Aho, as they tallied four goals in that frame. Goalie Dustin Tokarski showcased impressive skills with 21 saves, helping the team achieve a split of the two-game series after their previous night’s loss.
The Devils found the back of the net thanks to Paul Cotter and Ondrej Palat; however, this defeat ended their three-game winning streak. Despite a valiant effort from goalkeeper Jake Allen, who stopped 37 shots, the Devils’ circumstances remain challenging as he has not claimed a victory in over a month.
In a remarkable achievement, Carolina’s head coach Rod Brind’Amour became the fastest coach in NHL history to reach 300 wins, accomplishing this feat in just 488 games, outpacing Bruce Boudreau by eight games. It was the second game of the home-and-home series, with the Devils having taken the first game on Friday night with a score of 4-2.
Key takeaways highlight that the Devils were close to achieving a season-best four-game winning streak before the Hurricanes scored three times in about 11 minutes. Prior to this match, New Jersey had allowed only two goals over their last three games. For Carolina, it wasn’t until their 30th shot that they managed to find the net, thanks to Orlov’s shot from the right circle just 30 seconds before the second period concluded. Defenseman Ty Smith made his Carolina debut against his former team while Shayne Gostisbehere was sidelined due to an upper-body injury.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when Timo Meier of the Devils received a five-minute major penalty and game misconduct after a hit on Carolina’s leading scorer, Martin Necas. The ensuing power play allowed the Hurricanes to capitalize and take the lead.
As for the statistics, the teams have now split their four encounters this season, with the first three games all being decided by a score of 4-2.
Looking ahead, the Devils are scheduled to play against Anaheim on Tuesday, while the Hurricanes will be visiting Columbus.
