October 23, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Carolina Hurricanes center Eric Staal (12) shoots on goal against Los Angeles Kings goalie
Jonathan Quick(32) during the first period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
#7. 2006 Eastern Conference Semifinals – Game 2
There were many heroics in Carolina’s 2006 Stanley Cup run, but a late charge from the Canes in game two of the second round set the tone for a dominant series against the Devils.
Tied at 1 goal each, the Hurricanes and Devils were both looking to end things in regulation time late in the third period. The Devils looked like they were going to achieve this goal when Scott Gomez sent a wacky wrist shot on net and past Cam Ward with just 21 seconds to go.
In full desperation mode, the Carolina Hurricanes went on the all-out attack, and then Eric Staal scored one of his most memorable goals. With just 3 seconds left in regulation, Justin Williams threw the puck out front from the boards, and Staal was there to hammer it home from the crease, tying the hockey game at 2.
That late game charge led to a fast paced overtime period in Raleigh. Just 3:09 into the extra frame, Niclas Wallin ended things. The Swedish blue-liner rushed up the right wing, drove to the net, and he slid it through the five-hole of Martin Brodeur.
The win gave Carolina a 2-0 series lead. The club went on to win the series in 5 games and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Next: 2002 Eastern Conference Finals - Game 6