Opinion
4 min read

Will the Hurricanes Surge Past the Stars at PNC Arena?

As the Carolina Hurricanes prepare to host the Dallas Stars at PNC Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can continue its recent momentum. The upcoming clash on February 25th is set against a backdrop of mixed performances, but there's reason for optimism in the Hurricanes camp.


Jan 25, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Carolina Hurricanes left wing Teuvo Teravainen (86) skates past Dallas Stars center Radek Faksa (12) during the third period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Dallas Stars on February 14th, despite a valiant effort, CAR fell short with a final score of 2-4. The statistics from that night tell a story of missed opportunities and an even-strength battle that didn't go their way. With only two goals from 34 shots and a shooting percentage resting at six percent, it was clear that converting chances into goals was an issue for CAR. On top of that, they were out-hit by DAL who registered 30 hits to CAR's 24.


However, looking beyond this single defeat reveals a more promising trend for Carolina. In an electrifying match-up against New Jersey Devils on February 11th at PNC Arena itself, CAR managed to secure victory in overtime with one goal from just two shots during OT – showcasing their ability to perform under pressure when it counts most.


Jan 25, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger (29) stops a shot by Carolina Hurricanes center Jesperi Kotkaniemi (82) during the first period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Perhaps most indicative of Carolina's potential was their dominant performance over Colorado Avalanche on February 9th. A resounding five-goal tally from just as many powerplay opportunities reflects both clinical efficiency and ruthless execution – qualities they'll be keen to replicate against Dallas.


The Hurricanes have shown they can be formidable when seizing control early in games; evidenced by scoring three first-period goals against Colorado Avalanche. This aggressive start often sets the tone for the remainder of play and could be key in overcoming Dallas' defenses.


Jan 25, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce (22) waits for the face-off in the Dallas Stars zone during the third period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

On special teams play, there's room for improvement; particularly concerning powerplay situations where they failed to capitalize against DAL previously. However, with an impressive faceoff win percentage overall (53 percent), there is potential foundation upon which special teams can build success.


Dallas Stars will not make it easy though; they come into this game with confidence having bested Carolina last time out and boasting significant physicality as seen through their higher hit count in previous encounters.


Looking ahead to Saturday night’s game scheduled at PNC Arena at 8:00 PM EST (1:00 AM GMT), fans should expect an intense battle between these two conference rivals. The Hurricanes will need all hands on deck if they're going to surge past the Stars and delight home supporters once again.


For those unable or unwilling to brave what promises to be an electric atmosphere within PNC Arena itself – rest assured you won’t miss any action thanks ESPN+ online broadcasts or BSSO channel number 646-1 providing local television coverage right alongside BSSW channel number 676 catering specifically towards away team followers.

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