The Hurricanes easily beat the Devils in Game 1, and to be frank, I was leery that they'd underestimate a team that had been banged up lately. With Jack Hughes out, it would've been easy to assume this game would be akin to easy street, as the Devils are a much different team without their best player.
Instead, the Hurricanes realized the stakes and they never changed their playing style. We still saw the same high-octane team, one that systemically wears down opposing netminders with a relentless number of shots on goal. If the Hurricanes continue that style of play against a Devils team that's only getting more banged up, they'll punch their way into Round 2.
Looking at the Tale of the Tape that was, the Hurricanes unofficially outshot the Devils 45-24 after the final horn sounded. That number could always change, but it showed us that the 'Canes, if anything, are raising the floor. And it's something they need to continue, even against a weakened team like New Jersey. This is what will set the tone going forward.
Logan Stankoven was the real star who's only augmenting the high-octane Hurricanes
Newcomer Logan Stankoven was the real hero here. Having come over in the Mikko Rantanen deal, Stankoven ended up with two goals on four shots, one of which came on the power play. You couldn't ask for a better postseason debut for Stankoven in a Canes uniform, and considering how poorly Rantanen and the Stars played last night, Canes fans have to be feeling good about one of their newest forwards.
When you consider he's only in his age-21 season and the amount of damage he's done already with the Hurricanes, especially his playmaking ability, the Canes might just have a star in the making. Yeah, keeping Rantanen around would've been great (if he played better hockey, that is), but no one's complaining if Stankoven continues to enjoy some strong play.
Hurricanes need to keep playing consistent hockey if they want to win Game 2 and beyond
Anticipate an even more physical opponent in the Devils once Game 2 rolls around. This is a team that logged 52 hits, and they're going to be fighting like demons to get back in this series once it resumes. The Hurricanes can't let the Devils outmuscle and make them think twice about zone entries and driving the puck up the ice.
Without Jack Hughes, New Jersey knows they can't keep up with the Hurricanes high-octane play. So, I'd like to see even more physicality than the 42 hits they laid on the Devils in Game 1. Should the Hurricanes match the Devils in physical play, expect another multi-goal win. Easily. It's one of those ''keep the foot on the throttle" moments, but keep playing smart at the same time.
Overall, the Canes, their fans, and the entire organization should be excited for making quick work of the Devils in Game 1. Matchups like these have 'trap game' potential, considering the circumstances going on with the Devils. Now, let's see if they can match New Jersey in intensity in Game 2 and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates