Sebastian Aho's Overtime Goal Leads Hurricanes Past Devils in Stanley Cup Playoffs

RALEIGH, N.C. -- The Carolina Hurricanes overcame a rocky start to secure a thrilling 5-4 victory over the New Jersey Devils in double overtime, allowing them to advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. After falling into a three-goal deficit in the first period, Carolina rallied back to clinch the first-round series in five games.

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour expressed a desire for a turnaround after the first period, and his team delivered a remarkable performance in the second period. Sebastian Aho scored the decisive goal at 4:17 of the second overtime, capitalizing on a power play opportunity created by a high-sticking penalty from Dawson Mercer.

Aho's game-winner came after a powerful one-timer from a pass by Shayne Gostisbehere, marking the only lead Carolina held in a contest characterized by intense action and shifting momentum. This victory not only propelled the Hurricanes into the next playoff round but also marked their status as the first team to advance this postseason.

The Hurricanes' comeback began in the second period, where they managed to score four goals, leveling the match after initially trailing 3-0. Despite the Devils regaining a brief lead with a fourth goal, Aho's earlier equalizer kept the Hurricanes in contention throughout the game.

Carolina's scoring was bolstered by contributions from Taylor Hall, Jackson Blake, and Andrei Svechnikov, showcasing the depth and resilience of the team. Blake, 21, celebrated his first career playoff goal, highlighting the youthful energy that has become a hallmark of the Hurricanes' lineup.

Brind'Amour commended his team's determination, noting their refusal to concede even when faced with a daunting deficit. The victory also underscored the Hurricanes' remarkable achievement of securing series wins in seven consecutive playoff appearances, a feat matched by only a few teams in NHL history.

For the Devils, the loss was a heartbreaker, particularly after their strong start that saw them score three times in the opening ten minutes. New Jersey's efforts included goals from Mercer, Timo Meier, and Stefan Noesen, yet they could not maintain their early momentum as the game progressed.

Goalie Jacob Markstrom had a standout performance, making 49 saves and keeping the Devils competitive during critical moments, especially in the first overtime when the Hurricanes dominated play. Despite their defeat, Devils coach Sheldon Keefe praised his team's effort, acknowledging the challenges they faced in the postseason.

With this victory, the Hurricanes will now prepare to face the winner of the Montreal-Washington series, where the Capitals currently lead 3-1. The excitement of the playoffs continues as teams vie for the ultimate prize, and Carolina aims to build on their momentum moving forward.