The Carolina Hurricanes have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead in the Stanley Cup playoffs after a 5-2 victory over the New York Islanders. The Hurricanes have been on a roll lately, winning seven of their last eight games and are now just one win away from advancing to the second round.
The Hurricanes got off to a fast start in the first period, scoring two goals in the first five minutes of the game. Jordan Staal and Teuvo Teravainen each scored for Carolina, giving them an early two-goal lead. The Islanders responded with a goal from Brock Nelson late in the period, but the Hurricanes still held a 2-1 lead heading into the second period.
The second period saw the Hurricanes extend their lead to 4-1 with goals from Sebastian Aho and Warren Foegele. The Islanders were able to get one back late in the period, but it was too little too late as the Hurricanes held on for the 5-2 victory.
The Hurricanes have been led by their strong defense and goaltending throughout the series. Goaltender Petr Mrazek has been outstanding, recording a .938 save percentage and allowing just seven goals in four games. The Hurricanes have also been able to limit the Islanders’ offensive chances, allowing just 25 shots on goal in the game.
The Hurricanes will look to close out the series in Game 5 and advance to the second round. If they can continue to play at this level, they could be a force to be reckoned with in the playoffs. With their strong defense and goaltending, they could make a deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
