South Raleigh News

The Carolina Hurricanes faced a challenging match against the Florida Panthers on Saturday, resulting in a 6-0 defeat at Amerant Bank Arena. This was their second consecutive game against the Panthers.

Spencer Martin, starting for the second time in two days, managed to keep the score level during the first period by stopping all 11 shots. However, in the second period, Florida took control of the game. Despite a successful challenge by Hurricanes Video Coach Chris Huffine and Video Coordinator Paul Fink that nullified an early goal for Florida, Aaron Ekblad and Mackie Samoskevich later scored for the Panthers. Samoskevich's power play goal came just before the end of the period, which Rod Brind'Amour described as "a backbreaker."

The third period saw four more goals from Florida, leading to Martin being replaced by Yaniv Perets. The Panthers' power play was effective, contributing three of their six goals.

This marked Carolina's first shutout loss since March 12, 2024. It was also their first road shutout since October 24, 2023. Forwards Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis had their point streaks ended at four games.

Martin Necas did not score but finished November with impressive statistics: seven goals and fifteen assists over fifteen games. He is considered a strong candidate for NHL Player of the Month honors.

Rod Brind'Amour acknowledged several issues in his post-game comments: "It's pretty obvious...we just kind of fell asleep," he said about allowing a late second-period goal. He noted puck management as a problem: "We just didn't get it in (their zone) enough." Looking ahead, he stated: "You turn the page...you learn from it."

Jordan Staal commented on turnovers leading to goals: "What (Florida) did tonight was what we do against a lot of teams...puck management wasn't good enough."

The Hurricanes will have Sunday off before returning to practice on Monday and hosting Seattle Kraken on Tuesday at Lenovo Center.