RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — In a thrilling conclusion to their first-round playoff series, Sebastian Aho scored a dramatic goal at 4:17 of the second overtime period, propelling the Carolina Hurricanes to a 5-4 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night. This win not only clinched the series for the Hurricanes in five games but also marked their progression to the next round of the NHL playoffs.
Aho's game-winning goal came off a precise feed from Shayne Gostisbehere during a critical four-minute power play situation, following a double-minor high-sticking penalty assessed to New Jersey's Dawson Mercer. The penalty was particularly impactful as it sent Jesperi Kotkaniemi to the locker room with a towel pressed to his face, raising the stakes for the Hurricanes.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Devils initially taking a commanding 3-0 lead within the first ten minutes of play. Goals from Mercer, Timo Meier, and Stefan Noesen stunned the Carolina crowd, leaving fans anxious about the outcome. However, the Hurricanes responded emphatically, scoring four goals in a chaotic second period that turned the tide of the game.
Aho, who was pivotal throughout the match, scored his first goal to tie the game at 4-4 with just 8:33 remaining in the second period, capitalizing on a two-man advantage that showcased Carolina's offensive prowess. Alongside Aho, Taylor Hall, Jackson Blake, and Andrei Svechnikov also found the back of the net, demonstrating the depth of talent on the Hurricanes' roster.
As the game progressed into overtime, the tension heightened. Carolina maintained a significant advantage in shots, finishing with a staggering 34-12 edge after the second period. Despite the relentless pressure, Devils' goaltender Jacob Markstrom stood tall, making an impressive 49 saves throughout the match. His performance was nothing short of heroic, particularly in the first overtime where he made 37 consecutive saves, keeping New Jersey in the game.
Markstrom's resilience was tested repeatedly, including a nail-biting moment when Carolina's Seth Jarvis hit the left post with about 4.5 minutes left in the first overtime. The Hurricanes' offensive onslaught was relentless, but Markstrom's efforts ensured the game remained tied, pushing it into the second overtime.
For the Hurricanes, this victory is a testament to their consistency in the playoffs. They are one of only four teams to qualify for the postseason for at least seven consecutive years, and notably, they are the only team among that group to win at least one playoff series each year. This win over the Devils marks the second time in three seasons that the Hurricanes have eliminated New Jersey in a five-game series, with the previous instance occurring in the second round of the 2023 playoffs.
Looking ahead, the Hurricanes will face the winner of the Montreal-Washington series, where the Capitals currently lead 3-1. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await the next chapter in Carolina's playoff journey.
In the aftermath of the game, Aho's performance stood out, not just for his game-winning goal but for his overall impact, finishing the night with two goals and an assist. His ability to perform under pressure has solidified his status as a key player for the Hurricanes.
As the dust settles on this exhilarating matchup, the Hurricanes can take pride in their ability to rally from adversity. The swift turnaround from a 3-0 deficit to a 5-4 victory illustrates their determination and skill, setting a powerful tone for the upcoming challenges they will face in the playoffs.
The Hurricanes' victory is not just a win on the scoreboard; it's a statement about their resilience and readiness to compete at the highest level. With Aho leading the charge, Carolina is poised to make a deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
