Hurricanes Stay Alive with Game 4 Shutout as Panthers Miss First Chance to Close Series

The Carolina Hurricanes managed to stave off elimination in the Eastern Conference Final with a 3-0 win over the Florida Panthers in Game 4. Although it was just one victory in a series otherwise dominated by Florida, it offered Carolina a chance to return home and fight again in Game 5.

Head coach Rod Brind’Amour emphasized that effort remains constant, regardless of the series score, noting that players always give their best regardless of the circumstances.

Panthers Dominate Early, But Struggle to Close as Hurricanes Cling to Hope

Despite the Game 4 win, Carolina still faces a daunting challenge. Florida has largely outplayed them, winning the first three games with increasing dominance, including a demoralizing 6-2 win in Game 3. This series has contrasted starkly with the closely contested 2023 Eastern Final, which Florida also won in a sweep.

Monday’s victory was notable for ending a long conference final losing streak for the Hurricanes, but the Panthers remain a formidable opponent.

The Panthers, under coach Paul Maurice, have excelled in reaching closeout scenarios, winning nine of their first ten playoff series under his leadership. However, closing series haven’t always come easily—Monday’s loss dropped their record in potential closeout games to 9-8 since 2023.

Maurice downplayed the idea of learning from past missed opportunities, but acknowledged that the team would be reviewing Game 4 footage closely to make necessary adjustments.

Injuries Test Depth as Young Stars Shine and Home Ice Offers Carolina Hope

Injuries have affected both teams. Florida was without Sam Reinhart, Niko Mikkola, and A.J. Greer in Game 4, though all skated Tuesday and could return soon. Carolina, too, has been impacted, missing defensemen Jalen Chatfield and Sean Walker.

One positive for the Hurricanes has been the emergence of young players like Logan Stankoven and Alexander Nikishin. Stankoven has scored in consecutive games, while Nikishin recorded his first NHL point in Game 4.

The Panthers have shown dominance on the road, winning their past four away playoff games by wide margins. However, Carolina boasts a strong home record, both in the regular season and earlier playoff rounds.

Under Brind’Amour, the Hurricanes are 6-6 when facing elimination, including two wins last year after falling behind 3-0 in a series. While the odds are still stacked against them, Carolina’s home advantage and resilient mindset give them a fighting chance to extend the series.