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| Carolina Hurricanes' center, Evgeny Kuznetsov (92), nets a goal beyond New York Rangers' goaltender Igor... [+] Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. |
The atmosphere didn't quite echo the boldness of Kevin Millar's iconic "Don't let us win one" declaration on October 17, 2004, following the Red Sox's 19-8 defeat to the Yankees, leaving them trailing three games to none in the ALCS.
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Instead, within the fairly packed visiting locker room at Madison Square Garden, there prevailed a subdued yet assured demeanor among the Carolina Hurricanes. They find themselves halfway toward emulating the feat achieved by those Red Sox against the Yankees two decades ago.
Confidence was understandably buoyed after the Hurricanes clinched an elimination game in the manner they did. The game remained scoreless after the first period, with just a one-goal margin going into the final 40 minutes. Yet, by the time the final buzzer sounded, it was a commanding 4-1 victory for the Hurricanes. Their three-goal burst came rather effortlessly within a span of 6 minutes and 23 seconds.
The Hurricanes' accomplishment was foreseeable, particularly as long as they maintained a one-goal deficit, effectively neutralizing the threat of a potent power play. They also contained the offensive prowess of Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Chris Kreider, preventing any noteworthy contributions that would typically feature in broadcasts or notes.
"We stayed true to our game plan. It proved sufficient, allowing us to fight another day," stated Staal. "We recognized the importance of delivering our best performance in that period, and we did just that. Heading back home presents another significant challenge. We're battling for survival, and the team showed up when it mattered."
"We're ecstatic. Every game is a battle for survival," remarked Jordan Martinook following his crucial goal. "We've granted ourselves the opportunity to extend the series, to return here once more. There was a collective excitement among us, reveling in the momentary boost from the win. But now, it's about regrouping and preparing to give our all in Game 6."
Staal took the podium due to his skillful maneuver and subsequent goal, which caught many off guard, delaying the anticipated Rangers' advancement to the conference finals. Martinook joined him due to his pivotal goal, stemming from a defensive turnover, which sealed the series' continuation.
Both players found themselves in the spotlight after Rangers' coach Peter Laviolette essentially predicted the outcome based on the preceding 40 minutes.
"It just wasn't the performance we aimed for," Laviolette lamented, his disappointment evident. "And it extended beyond the third period."
Laviolette's concerns likely encompassed a power play that struggled to generate scoring opportunities or sustained offensive pressure, now tallying an 0-for-8 record since Game 2.
"The execution wasn't there for us, whereas they were spot-on," remarked Chris Kreider, reflecting on his team's shortcomings, having been on the ice for three of the Hurricanes' goals. "They stick to the fundamentals. Over time, those basics tend to create chances and yield results."
The feat accomplished by the Red Sox is relatively rarer in the NHL. Among 209 teams facing a similar deficit, only four have managed to stage a comeback. Notably, the 2010 Flyers, under Laviolette's guidance, rebounded from trailing three games to none against the Bruins, ultimately advancing to the Stanley Cup final.
"Anytime you fall short of your potential, it's cause for concern," acknowledged Laviolette. "But I also believe in this group's ability to bounce back. There's a sense of responsibility among them."
With two days until their next clash, both the Rangers and Hurricanes have time to recalibrate. The Rangers aim to respond effectively, while the Hurricanes seek to translate the confidence reverberating from Madison Square Garden into another strong showing.
"As you enter the third period, you're aware it could be the last of the season," reflected Kuznetsov. "That's not a feeling you want. I'm grateful we rallied to win the game."
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