Putting The “H” in Home Ice

-Raleigh, NC

They say home ice is huge in the playoffs and after tonight’s 3-1 win, the Carolina Hurricanes are definitely in agreement. After splitting the first two games in Columbus, the Canes came home and won both their home games to put the Blue Jackets on the brink of elimination. A 3-point night from Radim Vrbata and a 31 save performance from Carey Price was the apparent winning formula tonight. 

“It’s huge to take advantage of our home ice” said Henrik Sedin following the game, “I think we played a complete game and came out for a full 60 minute shutdown effort”. Sedin wasn’t off from Head Coach Willie Desjardins’ thoughts either. “We challenged our guys after Game 3, despite having won it, to up their game a level” commented Desjardins, “and that is exactly what they’ve accomplished. Our PP was great going 2 for 4, the PK was dominant killing off all 5 Columbus Power Plays, and it paid off big time as we won the game in the end”. 

Nobody was happier than Carey Price after the game. “This is why I was excited to come to Carolina. We have such a great group of guys in this room and want to win badly” he said smiling, “we know the series isn’t over yet as it’s first to 4 wins, but we’ve put ourselves in a good position”. Desjardins again echoed Price’s comments. “We’re obviously thrilled to have won such a pivotal game” he said post-game, “however we know they’ll be coming out playing desperate, fast-paced hockey Thursday. They don’t want to lose, period. But even more so at home. We will be ready and if we can get another effort like that from our group again for Game 5, we put ourselves in a good position to advance”. 

This team has come such a long way from being at the bottom of the standings at 11-25-4 earlier in the season to now on the verge of winning their first round playoff series. PNC Arena will be open to the public on Thursday night where we will be broadcasting the game on the scoreboard. Owner Tom Dundon has also announced that playoff towels and free hot dogs are available for that broadcasting. You are encouraged to wear red and also bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the local food bank. Gear up Canes fans, the games keep getting better!