In a competitive playoff matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes took a commanding 2-0 series lead against the New Jersey Devils with a 3-1 victory. Jordan Martinook's shorthanded goal in the second period shifted momentum in favor of Carolina, contributing to their strategic advantage. Frederik Andersen stood tall in goal, making 25 saves and maintaining control defensively throughout the game.

Seth Jarvis sealed the game with an empty-netter, while Shayne Gostisbehere also found the net, showcasing the Hurricanes' depth. Jesper Bratt managed to score for the Devils, but New Jersey struggled without key defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon. The series now shifts to Newark for Game 3, where the Devils will aim to rebound against a resilient Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils faced a tough challenge in Game 2 of their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat. The Hurricanes took a commanding 2-0 lead in the series, with Jordan Martinook proving to be a thorn in the Devils’ side, scoring a goal and providing an assist. This marks Martinook's impressive tally of four goals and 13 points in seven playoff games against New Jersey.

Despite a bright start from the Devils, who took the lead early in the first period through Jesper Bratt, the Hurricanes quickly responded, scoring twice in the second period. Shayne Gostisbehere and Martinook's short-handed goal turned the tide in favor of Carolina. The Devils struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with only 25 shots on goal, while their defense was also tested as they played without key players Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon.

Logan Stankoven made a significant impact in his first playoff game with the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring two goals in the second period to lead his team to a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils. His contributions exemplified his skill and energy, playing alongside veterans Jordan Staal and Jordan Martinook on a defensive line. Stankoven's first goal came from a turnover forced by Martinook, showcasing the synergy of the line. Coach Rod Brind'Amour expressed confidence in Stankoven, who had previously shown promise with five goals in 19 regular-season games.

Stankoven's ability to find space and shoot effectively was evident in his second goal during a power play, reaffirming his place within the team's playoff strategy. With a blend of youth and experience on their roster, the Hurricanes appear poised for a deep playoff run, bolstered by new acquisitions and established players working in harmony.

The Carolina Hurricanes displayed an impressive offensive performance, scoring five goals in a blistering second period to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 7-4. Seth Jarvis led the charge with two goals and two assists, while Sebastian Aho contributed one goal and two assists. Eric Robinson, Jackson Blake, Jordan Martinook, and Jesperi Kotkaniemi also added to the Hurricanes' tally, with Jarvis sealing the victory with an empty-netter. Goalie Frederik Andersen made 18 saves in his 300th NHL win, helping the Hurricanes extend their winning streak to four games.

Despite the loss, the Blue Jackets showcased their offensive skills as well, with goals from Kent Johnson, Kirill Marchenko, James van Riemsdyk, and Dmitri Voronkov. Columbus struck early, taking a two-goal lead, but the Hurricanes quickly responded, outshooting the Blue Jackets 24-3 in the second period. Carolina's ability to erase the deficit and dominate the frame was a key factor in securing the win.

Pyotr Kochetkov achieved his first shutout of the season with 32 saves as the Carolina Hurricanes dominated the New York Islanders 4-0.

Key contributions came from Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov, Jordan Martinook, and Tyson Jost, with Shayne Gostisbehere adding two assists. The Hurricanes have now won back-to-back games for the first time since late November.

The Islanders, on the other hand, faced their second three-game stretch without a point this season, raising concerns after allowing 13 goals in their last three outings.