The Ottawa Senators concluded the regular season on a high note, defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 7-5. Brady Tkachuk made his return after an eight-game injury absence but exited the game due to a stick to the face in the second period. Ottawa dominated initially, racing to a 3-0 lead with goals from Adam Gaudette, Dylan Cousins, and Shane Pinto. However, Carolina rallied back, scoring three consecutive goals in the second period to take a 5-3 lead.

The Senators responded with two goals in the third period, including a power-play goal from Drake Batherson that put them ahead again. Tim Stutzle sealed the win with another late power-play goal. Ottawa’s defenseman Travis Hamonic played in his 900th NHL game, showcasing the team’s resilience ahead of the playoffs.

In a thrilling matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes secured their sixth consecutive victory, defeating the Detroit Red Wings 4-2. Jack Roslovic played a pivotal role, contributing a goal and an assist, while Taylor Hall and Jalen Chatfield also found the back of the net.

Jesperi Kotkaniemi was instrumental with two assists, and goaltender Frederik Andersen made 24 crucial saves to maintain the lead. Despite the loss, Alex DeBrincat and Michael Rasmussen scored for the Red Wings, whose struggles continued with a seventh loss in eight games.

Mikko Rantanen's transition to the Carolina Hurricanes has been marked by a quick adaptation, highlighted by his recent goal against the Chicago Blackhawks. Following a significant trade that also brought in Taylor Hall, Rantanen quickly found a connection with teammate Jack Roslovic, who assisted on his debut goal. Rantanen's acquisition is particularly exciting for the Hurricanes, who haven't seen a player score 100 points in a season since Eric Staal in 2005-06. His impressive previous seasons with the Colorado Avalanche included back-to-back seasons exceeding 100 points, positioning him as a key player for the Hurricanes as they seek further success.

Despite being new to the team, Rantanen has expressed gratitude for the supportive environment in Carolina, particularly among his fellow Finnish players. Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour has recognized Rantanen’s immediate impact and contribution to the team’s offensive strategies, and the forward is poised to become a central figure in the Hurricanes' pursuit of a Stanley Cup. With Rantanen’s scoring ability and his strong relationship with teammates, the franchise hopes to harness his talent for a successful season ahead.

Mikko Rantanen made an impactful debut for the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring his first goal in a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. This came shortly after he joined the team in a significant trade involving multiple teams. Initially, Rantanen faced a challenge in acquiring his preferred No. 96, previously worn by Jack Roslovic, but a simple conversation resulted in a friendly exchange. Rantanen’s goal, assisted by Roslovic, not only marked a personal milestone but also aimed to signal his intent to contribute significantly to the Hurricanes' success.

In addition to Rantanen, the Hurricanes acquired Taylor Hall from the Blackhawks, although Hall was unable to participate in the game due to illness. As Rantanen transitions from a successful stint with the Colorado Avalanche, where he contributed to their Stanley Cup win in 2022, he is hopeful to replicate that success with Carolina. The Hurricanes are eager for Rantanen’s offensive prowess, as they have not had a player score 100 points in a season since Eric Staal did during their championship year in 2006.

Rantanen has already demonstrated his scoring ability by posting an assist in his second game with the Hurricanes. Coach Rod Brind’Amour emphasizes the need for immediate contributions from Rantanen, highlighting the team’s successful track record in recent seasons. The presence of fellow Finnish players, including Sebastian Aho, has facilitated Rantanen’s adjustment to his new environment, setting the stage for what the Hurricanes hope will be a productive season.

In the latest NHL news, Carolina Hurricanes forward Jack Roslovic was sidelined due to an illness, missing last night's game. Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Dante Fabbro also did not participate in practice, while Boone Jenner returned to the ice. Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen was injured after a collision involving Mark Stone. Coach Pete DeBoer had no update on Heiskanen's condition. Several players were absent from practice, including Red Wings forwards J.T. Compher and Vladimir Tarasenko, along with Patrick Kane.

The Minnesota Wild announced that Kirill Kaprizov has been placed on injured reserve and will undergo surgery for a lower-body injury, sidelining him for at least four weeks. Other injury updates include Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle, who exited a recent game with an injury, and Philadelphia Flyers forward Sean Couturier, who returned to practice after illness. Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin remains week-to-week due to a lower-body injury.