RALEIGH, N.C. — Mikko Rantanen made an impressive contribution in his home debut for the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring his first goal with the team and playing a pivotal role in the Hurricanes’ 3-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night.

Rantanen’s goal came just 4:52 into the second period, giving Carolina a crucial 2-1 lead. He has now notched 26 goals so far this season. Additionally, Seth Jarvis and Jaccob Slavin found the back of the net, while Pyotr Kochetkov, the Hurricanes’ goalie, recorded 18 saves.

The Blackhawks responded with goals from Connor Bedard and Ilya Mikheyev, but their efforts fell short as Arvid Soderblom managed to stop 24 shots in goal.

The trade that brought Rantanen to Carolina from Colorado was made last weekend and also included Chicago. In his previous game against the Rangers, he contributed with an assist in the Hurricanes’ dominating 4-0 win.

Taylor Hall, who also arrived in Carolina through the same trade from Chicago, was unable to play due to illness. With both Hall and Sebastian Aho out, the Hurricanes had to operate with only 11 forwards, showcasing Ryan Suzuki, their 2019 first-round draft pick, in his first NHL game.

A noteworthy moment in the game was Jack Roslovic’s smart setup for Rantanen’s goal, as he skillfully attracted three Blackhawks defenders to create an opening. The assist allowed Rantanen to score effectively from the left circle.

Statistically speaking, Jarvis netted a short-handed goal in the first period, marking his 11th goal in the last 13 matches. The Hurricanes hold a remarkable record of 62-5-5 in regular-season games when this fourth-year winger scores.

Looking ahead, the Blackhawks will head to Florida for their next matchup on Saturday, while the Hurricanes are set to host the Los Angeles Kings on the same day.