“Against a team like that, you’ve got to be ready. We weren’t there from the start.”
By Spencer Knight – @stormsurge_pod / stormsurgepod.com
March 13, 2024
Raleigh, NC – The top two teams in the Metropolitan division battled it out last night in what is potentially a playoff preview as the New York Rangers secured a 1-0 win on the road. Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin was a brick wall, turning away all 28 shots he faced, spoiling the debut of new Canes forward Jake Guentzel.
Slow Start
The Hurricanes got off to a bit of a sluggish start in the first period, despite drawing a penalty just 59 seconds into the game. That powerplay was a bit of a dud, as no shots on goal were recorded and any momentum gained benefited the Rangers more than the Hurricanes.
Unfortunately, that power play opportunity was indicative of things to come, as the Hurricanes were simply not ready to go. The Rangers clearly were, and they outshot the Canes 12-5 in the first period. Pyotr Kochetkov was ready to go, turning away the first 11 shots he faced. But then, with just eight seconds remaining in the period, Adam Fox fired the puck from the wall and hit Brady Skjei’s boot, redirecting the puck past Kochetkov and into the net.
Second Period Flip
The Canes, thankfully, had more pep in their step upon returning for the 2nd period. Gaining momentum through a methodical early period penalty kill, they were able to hold the Rangers to just 5 shots in the 2nd. The trio of Guentzel, Kuznetsov, and Necas lead the way offensively, with a pair of excellent chances.
For the Rangers, Shesterkin was solid in net, stopping all 11 shots coming his way and preserving the 1-0 lead. Their defensive structure was solid as well, eliminating chances before they became dangerous.
The Dramatic Conclusion
The third period was more evenly matched, with solid chances both ways and both goalies showing out. The Hurricanes again had the shot advantage, but were unable to solve Shesterkin. Kochetkov did well to keep the game within reach, with several incredible saves.
After the Kuznetsov penalty early in the 2nd, there were no penalties called for the remainder of the game. There was a definite playoff feel to the game, as physicality intensified and the players were allowed to play. But in the end, Shesterkin stood tall as the Rangers extended their lead in the division standings. The Hurricanes are now 6 points out of first place with just 17 games remaining in the season.
Player and Coach Response
Rod Brind’Amour – “The first period we were not ready for what they threw at us. There’s a legit reason why they’re one of the top teams and they showed that. We were not ready. The second [period] it flipped and it was kind of the opposite, but we didn’t get the (goal) to even it up. In the third we were pushing a little bit and we gave up a few too many (chances). Kochetkov played really well. Their goalie made a couple of nice saves too but we probably didn’t generate enough to really put the heat on.
Jordan Staal – “Down the stretch, it’s turning into playoff hockey more and more. Especially in games like that, against a team like that, you’ve got to be ready. We weren’t there from the start.
Moving On
Wednesday morning, the team practiced at PNC arena with no changes to the lines/pairings and Andersen in the starter’s crease. They’ll host the Florida Panthers on Thursday night to conclude this 3 game homestand.
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