Storms oust Devils in a five-game series.
Aho Clinches Victory for Hurricanes in Dramatic Double OT
In a thrilling second overtime showdown, Sebastian Aho notched the game-winner for the North Carolina Hurricanes against the New Jersey Devils, eliminating them from the playoffs with a nail-biting 5-4 victory.
With just four minutes remaining in overtime, a high-stick infraction on Jesperi Kotkaniemi sent Dawson Mercer to the penalty box, setting the stage for Aho's heroics. He capitalized on the power play opportunity, beating Jacob Markstrom with a sharp shot that ended the nail-biting contest.
The Hurricanes had fought back valiantly after trailing 3-0 after the first period, courtesy of Aho's two goals and one assist. Andrei Svechnikov, Taylor Hall, and Jackson Blake also found the back of the net for Carolina. With injured goalie Frederik Andersen sidelined, Pyotr Kochetkov stepped up between the pipes, denying 31 of the 35 shots faced.
The Devils managed to reply through Mercer, Stefan Noesen, Nico Hischier, and Timo Meier. Brett Pesce collected two assists in an impressive first period that saw the Devils take a commanding lead.
Markstrom was immense in the Devils' net, making 48 saves, including 33 in the third period alone. However, his efforts couldn't prevent the Hurricanes from storming back into the game.
The Hurricanes responded swiftly in the second period, netting three goals in less than six minutes to draw level. Hall, Blake, and Svechnikov scored for Carolina, showncasing their resilience and determination. Despite Hischier's quick reply to restore the Devils' lead, Aho leveled the score again, setting up an electrifying overtime.
Both teams showcased their grit in the remaining minutes of regulation, but neither could find the winner. Markstrom made two stunning saves with his right pad to send the game to overtime, only for Aho to shine in the extra period and claim the victory for the Hurricanes.
Although Sebastien Aho is renowned as a key offensive contributor in the 2025 playoffs, this victory marked his clutch moment in the postseason. In the April 30, 2025, game, he proved instrumental in the Hurricanes' advance to the next round.
The Hurricanes' potential second-round opponent will be decided as early as Wednesday, with the Washington Capitals leading the Montreal Canadiens 3-1. Keep your eyes peeled for updates!
- The surprising victory for Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL playoffs was clinched by Sebastian Aho in a dramatic double overtime, eliminating the New Jersey Devils with a nail-biting 5-4 victory.
- In the thrilling second overtime showdown, Aho capitalized on a power play opportunity, sending a sharp shot past Jacob Markstrom to eliminate the Devils.
- Aho was a key offensive contributor in the 2025 NHL playoffs, showcasing his heroics in the April 30 game, where he scored the game-winner against the Devils.
- With their win against the Devils, the Hurricanes could face the Washington Capitals in the next round, as the Capitals lead the Montreal Canadiens 3-1 in their playoff series.
