South Raleigh News

In a game at Lenovo Center, the Carolina Hurricanes secured a 6-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. The match was highlighted by Jordan Staal's hat trick, marking his first since April 2022 and only the fourth in his career spanning 1,295 games. This performance comes just days before his brother's number is set to be retired in Raleigh.

The Maple Leafs initially took a 2-0 lead early in the game. However, Eric Robinson responded with a goal for the Hurricanes, followed by Staal tying the game shortly after. Early in the second period, Staal scored again shorthanded to give Carolina a brief lead before Auston Matthews equalized for Toronto. Jackson Blake then restored Carolina's advantage with his ninth goal of the season.

Staal completed his hat trick early in the third period by deflecting a shot from Brent Burns. Seth Jarvis later added an empty-net goal to secure the win for Carolina. Pyotr Kochetkov made 30 saves on 33 shots, returning to form after a recent loss.

Reflecting on Staal's achievement, Rod Brind'Amour commented: "You're just happy for him. He does a lot for us that goes unnoticed." Jordan Martinook expressed similar sentiments: "For him to go out there and put up three, it's awesome."

Staal himself remarked on his performance: "It's cool... but you guys see my game, it hasn't changed." Juha Jaaska also celebrated earning his first NHL point during this game.

The Hurricanes will face off against the Vancouver Canucks next at Lenovo Center.