Winter Memories in July

As summer is truly setting in with temperatures set to creep into the mid to high 90s, let’s cool off with some fond memories of the winter, more specifically the Stadium Series.

On February 18th the hockey world had its eyes on Raleigh and the Carolina Hurricanes. The Canes hosted the Washington Capitals outdoors across from PNC Arena at Carter-Finley Stadium.

The celebration of hockey in North Carolina started early and lasted all night.

The sellout crowd, along with the marching band, created a college football-like party atmosphere that was electric, to say the least. The team clearly fed off of this atmosphere and jumped out to an early lead after the first period and never looked back.

With 3 goals in the second period, the 56,961 fans went wild and had a celebration all game long. The Capitals would get one goal in the third but that would not damper the amazing night in Raleigh.

Martin Necas came away with the top star in the game with his goal and 2 assists. Teuvo Teravainen also had a multi-point evening with a goal and a helper.

The goaltending was great as Frederik Andersen had 24 saves and never let the Capitals get into this one.

Delayed by the pandemic, the Caniacs got their Stadium Series game finally and showed the world that Raleigh is truly a hockey town and the team itself is ready to bring the cup back home.

Now as my children often state, “I want more”. When can we get another taste of the Stadium Series or even the New Year’s outdoor game?

Certainly, the atmosphere was undeniably great for hockey and the city. This would lead to Raleigh being considered in the future.

Next year’s Stadium Series will be in New Jersey but keep your eyes peeled for the Canes to be back in the mix for a big even like this and stay cool!