Stankoven Leads Hurricanes to Game 1 Playoff Win

Logan Stankoven scored twice in his playoff debut, leading the Carolina Hurricanes to a 4-1 win over the New Jersey Devils in Game 1 of their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series. Stankoven, acquired earlier this year, played alongside veterans Jordan Staal and Jordan Martinook on the top defensive forward line. Carolina dominated the game, outshooting the Devils 44-24, with additional goals from Jalen Chatfield and Andrei Svechnikov. Goaltender Frederik Andersen made 23 saves, while New Jersey's only goal came from Nico Hischier. The Hurricanes’ decision to rest key players late in the regular season appears to have paid off, contributing to their healthy and energized start. The win marks a strong opening to Carolina’s seventh straight playoff appearance, raising hopes for a deeper postseason run.