Carolina Hurricanes Stun Devils in Double OT Thriller to Advance in Stanley Cup Playoffs
In one of the most electrifying games of the 2025 NHL Playoffs so far, the Carolina Hurricanes captured national attention with a stunning double-overtime win against the New Jersey Devils on April 29, 2025. From a crushing 3-0 deficit to a euphoric 5-4 comeback victory, the Hurricanes delivered a playoff performance that instantly became one for the ages — and it's why they're dominating headlines today.
A Rivalry Rekindled
The Hurricanes and Devils renewed playoff hostilities this year, reviving tension from their clashes in seasons past. After being eliminated by the Devils in 2023, Carolina came into this first-round series with revenge and redemption on their minds. Under the steady leadership of Rod Brind'Amour, the Canes have become a perennial force in the East, reaching the conference finals twice since 2019. Known affectionately as the "Bunch of Jerks," Carolina has built a brand on heart, hustle, and celebration — and this series has reinforced that identity.
April 29, 2025: A Night of Resilience
Game 5 started ominously for the Hurricanes, who found themselves trailing 3-0 in the first period. But that only lit a fire. Piece by piece, Carolina clawed their way back, eventually tying the game and pushing it to overtime. Goaltender Frederik Andersen left with an injury, forcing Pyotr Kochetkov into high-pressure action. Rather than buckle, he stood tall — and gave his team the chance to keep believing.
When Sebastian Aho fired home the game-winning power-play goal during the second overtime, the PNC Arena erupted. Jesperi Kotkaniemi's bloodied face from a previous shift made the victory feel like a battlefield honor. Carolina's first playoff overtime win in six attempts was not just a stat—it was a signal they are not done yet.
Key Moments from the Series
- April 22, 2025: Carolina opens with a 2-0 series lead at home
- April 28, 2025: Andrei Svechnikov records a hat trick to power a 5-2 Game 4 win
- April 29, 2025: Hurricanes complete a 4-1 series win with Aho’s double OT heroics
Brind'Amour's Faith in Kochetkov
The turning point wasn’t just on the ice — it was the decision to trust Pyotr Kochetkov in net. When asked about it, coach Rod Brind'Amour offered a pointed reply:
"We have a lot of faith in Kochetkov... this isn't like putting in a guy we don't trust."
In a postseason often defined by goalie duels, Kochetkov’s composure under pressure could prove crucial in upcoming rounds. His performance not only backed Brind’Amour’s confidence—it inspired fans as well.
Read more on NHL.com's official game recap.
Emotions Run High Among Fans and Players
From heartache to elation, Hurricanes fans ran the full spectrum of emotions during this game. The playoff heartbreak of years past still loomed, but with this dramatic win, the narrative is shifting. Social media lit up with images of Kotkaniemi’s bruised determination, and debate flared around whether this team could replicate their 2006 Cup-winning magic.
Reporters at the Associated Press praised the team's resiliency and highlighted the Hurricanes as the first team to secure a second-round playoff berth.
Conclusion
✔️ Carolina's gripping comeback victory over the Devils has reignited playoff hopes and captured the hearts of fans nationwide.
✔️ With Kochetkov stepping up and Aho delivering under pressure, the Hurricanes are more than a feel-good story—they're a real contender.
