In Raleigh, the Caroline Hurricanes could not hold a 1-0 lead for the entire game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Chicago tied the game in the third period, and Alex DeBrincat potted the game-winner at 2″02 of the extra session for a 2-1 win.
Collin Delia made 36 saves in the victory.
“I think playing a couple of games in a row definitely helps, especially not seeing a lot of practice and game action throughout the year,” Delia said. “To have games in succession like that, you really get to get in a rhythm.”
Martin Necas struck for a shorthanded score midway through the first period to give the Canes the 1-0 advantage.
“We needed to get our butts kicked, to be quite honest, just so we can show that this is not how it works,” Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “It’s just not good enough. We can’t play like that certainly [in the playoffs], that’s for sure.”
The loser’s point extended the Canes’ point streak to 13 games.
Riley Stillman forced the extra session when he tied the game, 1-1, in the 17th minute of the third period.
“He made a good shot and I just happened to touch it. I’m just glad it went in,” Stillman said. “I’ve had a couple of opportunities in the past, but it was big to get that first one out of the way.”
Petr Mrazek made 25 saves in the loss.
“We gave up too many Grade-A’s,” Necas said. “We’ve got to figure it out in the next two games. There is no chance we can play like that in the playoffs.”
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