Recap: Canes Clinch Playoff Berth With Win Over Buffalo

RALEIGH, NC. -The Carolina Hurricanes locked up a spot in the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs Thursday with a 5-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres.

The Rundown:
The contest did not start on the right foot for the Canes, as Buffalo would convert on their first two shots of the night, putting Antti Raanta and the home side in an early hole. Former Hurricane Jeff Skinner had helpers on both goals and combined with a sluggish start for Carolina, the Sabres' 2-0 advantage would carry with little resistance into the second period.
The Canes got a little bit of life less than five minutes into the middle 20, as Sebastian Aho got his club on the board. Looking for a crashing Seth Jarvis, Aho's attempt instead found the back of the net for what would be his first of two on the night.
Unfortunately, Buffalo had a response just 30 seconds later though, reclaiming their two-goal lead. However, before they could take a 3-1 score into the third, Teuvo Teravainen stepped up for the Canes, bringing them back within one.
Playing in his 400th game as a member of the team, a failed clearing attempt by Cody Eakin of Buffalo wound up in Teravainen's glove, where he would haul it down, work in and fire for his 19th marker of the season.

In the third the Canes picked up right where they left off, getting an early period equalizer courtesy of their Captain. Another strong shift from his line allowed Brett Pesce to showcase some deception, before setting up Jordan Staal to tie the game at 3-3.

Continuing to ride the momentum, the eventual game-winner came via Aho, as he backhanded one by Craig Anderson with 9:21 remaining in regulation.
The Sabres were unable to put together any pushback as the Canes surge just continued to come and eventually Staal hit the empty net for his second of the evening, closing out a 5-3 victory.
They Said It:
Rod Brind'Amour 'sinitial thoughts on tonight's contest...
"We weren't at our best but then our guys just said 'okay, enough' and went out and had a period. They played their butts off. It was a good third period and it got us a win."
Jordan Staalon the club locking up a playoff spot with the victory...
"It's great. It's good news for this club. We worked hard to get here, but this was the first step. It's definitely a night to celebrate."
Sebastian Ahotouching on it being the fourth consecutive year of making the postseason...
"That's the whole point of why you play hockey, right? You play for the playoffs and you play to be the best team. We're very proud, but at the same time we have to put our head down and go to work. We have about 10 games left in our way and we have to keep building until we get there."
What's Next?:
The Canes turn right back around and host the New York Islanders tomorrow night at PNC Arena. They will not hold a morning skate prior.
Bonus Notes:
Worth A Click:
CanesCast 207: Drawing The Lines
Hurricanes April Schedule
NHL Standings