RALEIGH, N.C. – Michael Bunting’s standout performance, featuring a goal and two assists, propelled the Carolina Hurricanes to an emphatic 6-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights at PNC Arena on Tuesday. The Hurricanes’ offensive prowess was on full display as they rallied to score five consecutive goals in a game that was much closer than the final score suggests.
Carolina’s head coach Rod Brind’Amour acknowledged the tight nature of the contest, praising his team’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, a facet they’ve struggled with this season. “It was nice to see us get rewarded,” he said, highlighting the team’s recent strong play.
The Hurricanes, now on a five-game point streak (3-0-2), saw notable contributions from Andrei Svechnikov, who scored in his return from injury, and Brady Skjei, who added a goal and an assist. Sebastian Aho’s three assists and Pyotr Kochetkov’s 30 saves were crucial in securing the win. Kochetkov’s recent form, with just one goal allowed in each of his past three games, earned high praise from Brind’Amour.
Vegas, despite a strong showing in recent games, couldn’t maintain their momentum. William Carrier scored twice, and Jack Eichel extended his point streak to 11 games, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Carolina’s onslaught. Vegas goalie Logan Thompson was replaced by Jiri Patera in the third period after conceding six goals.
Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy admitted his team was outplayed, citing quicker reactions and mental sharpness as key differences.
Svechnikov’s power-play goal opened the scoring for Carolina in the first period. His return and immediate impact were significant, providing a confidence boost for both him and the team. Carrier’s equalizer for Vegas was short-lived as Jordan Staal and Jesperi Kotkaniemi quickly restored and extended Carolina’s lead.
Bunting and Seth Jarvis capitalized on power-play opportunities, highlighting Carolina’s efficiency with the man advantage. Bunting reflected on the team’s performance, emphasizing the need to build on this success.
Skjei’s goal led to Thompson’s replacement by Patera, who managed to stop all 10 shots in relief. Eichel and Carrier’s late goals for Vegas brought the score to a more respectable 6-3, but the night belonged to Carolina.
Notable Notes:
- Patera’s appearance was his fourth in the NHL and first in relief.
- The Golden Knights’ defense struggled, allowing three power-play goals for the first time this season.
- Vegas goalie Adin Hill, injured in a previous game, is expected to miss the ongoing road trip.
- Bunting’s performance marked his sixth multipoint game of the season.
- Carolina’s current point streak is their longest this season.
The Hurricanes’ dominant performance against a formidable Vegas team underlines their potential and resilience, setting a high bar as they look to continue their impressive form.
