Tracking the Storm: Analysis
Tim Brent’s goal in the first period was a microcosm of sorts for tonight’s game, which saw the Carolina Hurricanes escape with a grimy 2-1 win over the visiting Winnipeg Jets. Brent scored when he shuffled the puck towards the net, trying to find
Chad LaRose on the doorstep. Instead, it hit goaltender Chris Mason and slid through his legs. It wasn’t a pretty goal, but it still counted; likewise, the Canes’ win wasn’t pretty, but it’s still two points. “Three games in four nights, and you could see we were losing our legs,” head coach Kirk Muller said. “They found a great way to battle and pick up points, and it will be a well-deserved break for them.”
Cam Ward continues to be the backbone of the Hurricanes in net. His 14-save third period arguably earned the team the two points, as the Jets threw everything at him and limited the Canes to just two shots in the final 20 minutes. With 29 saves on 30 shots tonight, his save percentage in his last nine games – all of which he’s given up two goals or less – sits at a rock-solid .953. “We want to make sure we’re in each and every game, and that’s by keeping the game tight and not letting it get wide open,” Ward said.
Jeff Skinner had what Muller called his strongest game since returning from his concussion. Skinner got the Canes on the board at 3:55 of the first period when he attempted a pass on a 2-on-1 and had the puck deflect off a Jets’ defenseman back onto his stick. He wasted no time burying the puck for his 14th goal of the season. In the second period, he displayed some defensive acumen as well. On an impending 3-on-1 for Winnipeg, Skinner raced back to dive and poke away the puck.
LaRose’s leg was cut by a skate blade in the second period. He limped off and did not return. Muller said after the game that he didn’t think it was bad as initially speculated and hopes LaRose is back after the All-Star break.
The Hurricanes now will get an extended break, as they will be off the ice until Monday, Jan. 30.
Justin Faulk will spend his upcoming weekend in Ottawa for the All-Star events, while the rest of the team (coaching staff included) will get some well-deserved rest and relaxation in various locations. The Canes are playing a brand of hockey that is leading to two points on a regular basis, so hopefully this break gives them the off-time they need to come back in similar fashion next Tuesday against the New York Islanders.
Recap (Associated Press)
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - Jeff Skinner and Tim Brent scored first-period goals for the Carolina Hurricanes, who held off the Winnipeg Jets 2-1 on Monday night.
Carolina won its third straight at home heading into the NHL All-Star break.
Kyle Wellwood scored at 13:47 of the second period for the Jets' only goal.
Cam Ward stopped 29 shots for his 18th win. Winnipeg's Chris Mason, who played in his 300th NHL game, made 14 saves.
Since giving up four power-play goals in five chances at Nashville on Jan. 7, Carolina has gone eight games without allowing one. The Hurricanes allowed two power-play chances to Winnipeg and killed both to run their string to 15 straight.
The Hurricanes were held without a shot for more than 11 minutes of the third period. Carolina finally got a shot in on Mason during a power play.
The Jets had won the previous three matchups with Carolina this season.
NOTES: Carolina F Jiri Tlusty played his 200th NHL game. ... Winnipeg's Wellwood and Tobias Enstrom extended their point streaks to five games. ... Carolina F Chad LaRose was injured early in the second period and didn't return.
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