NHL: Game 5 now looks like the hinge point in this Carolina-Vegas final
This NHL Final is living up to the billing. Vegas struck first, Carolina hit back. After four games, there is still no clear favourite, with both teams trading blows from the opening puck drop. Vegas regained the edge, Carolina answered straight away. The result: 2-2 heading into a fifth game that could already carry huge weight in the race for the Stanley Cup.
The series shifting back to Raleigh is a big chance for the Hurricanes. Rod Brind’Amour’s men have regained some belief after winning in Nevada and now return home with a chance to move ahead for the first time in this final.
In a series where every small detail matters, the mental side is almost as important as the hockey itself. Carolina arrive feeling they have found answers to several of the adjustments Vegas have thrown at them in recent games. The next step is proving it on a night when the pressure will be intense on both benches.
The Hurricanes have taken back home ice, now comes the test
Carolina have a few players in strong form, but one name has stood out from the start of this series: Jordan Staal. The Carolina captain is probably playing the best final of his career and always seems to turn up in the right place at the right time. His two-goal effort in Game 4 rewarded his constant presence around the net. More than just a finisher, Staal has become the anchor of the Hurricanes’ attack. His physical edge wears down the Vegas defence, his work in dangerous areas opens space for team-mates and his experience helps Carolina stay composed when things tighten up.
Around him, Logan Stankoven keeps confirming his status as one of the breakout stars of these playoffs, while Taylor Hall and Jackson Blake are providing steady offensive support. But when the Hurricanes need a leader to swing a game, they are now turning to their captain.
Vegas can no longer afford to drift
For the first time in this final, the Golden Knights go into a game feeling they let a major chance slip. Even with their fightback in Game 4, John Tortorella’s men never fully took control of the mood of the night.
The attacking numbers are still there, though. Mitch Marner continues to post elite-level performances, Jack Eichel is running the offence with impressive consistency and several depth players are stepping up when called on.
The problem sits elsewhere. Vegas are struggling to handle some of Carolina’s sustained pressure and are giving up too many high-quality chances at key moments. Against a team growing in confidence, one defensive lapse is punished quickly. The Golden Knights need a lot more control if they want to regain the edge in this series.
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NHL Pick: Carolina Hurricanes vs Vegas Golden Knights
Jordan Staal (Carolina) to record 1+ point (goal or assist)
When a player is riding this kind of run in a Stanley Cup Final, it gets hard to argue with the form line. Jordan Staal has now scored in four straight games and his influence on Carolina keeps growing.
The Hurricanes captain is logging big minutes, taking part in the key attacking sequences and has clearly found a way through the defensive adjustments Vegas have tried to make. More than anything, his role goes well beyond putting the puck in the net: he helps build the play, creates room for team-mates and keeps showing up in dangerous areas.
In a game this big, the leaders usually take even more on their shoulders. At home and backed by a surge of confidence, Jordan Staal has another chance to shape this final. Backing him to record at least one point looks like the sensible call for Game 5.
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