The Carolina Hurricanes are back in Raleigh after splitting their opening two games against the New Jersey Devils and will be looking to take advantage of their recent dominance at home. The team has won 12 of their last 13 games at the RBC. The Devils have not beaten the Hurricanes at their home rink in a playoff game since the 2001 postseason.
Carolina fans have a reputation around the league for being loud and proud. John Madden and Martin Brodeur each had recent quotes recognizing this and there is no doubt the fans will be into it for game three. A couple of hundred Caniacs continued on with a playoff tradition and met the team at the airport upon their arrival late Friday night. The airport crowds will just get larger and larger as the postseason continues.
Look for the Hurricanes lineup to be the same as in game two. Paul Maurice seemed happy with how things went and it's doubtful that he will change things up.
- Staal, Cole, Ruutu
- Cullen, Whitney, LaRose
- Brind'Amour, Samsonov, Eaves
- Jokinen, Walker, Bayda
- Corvo, Gleason
- Pitkanen, Babchuk
- Kaberle, Wallin
Frank Kaberle took over for Dennis Seidenberg in that game and the coaching staff seems happy with the change.
On the Jersey side of things, Jamie Langenbrunner is hurt and will miss at least, the next two games in Raleigh. The Devils captain scored 29 goals, plus had another one in game one. He will be missed no matter how much Brent Sutter downplays his loss. Bobby Holik, who has been healthy scratch both games is likely to take a spot on the fourth line while Brian Rolston moves up to fill in for the captain.
There will be tailgating, a front lawn party with a band, and other activities prior to the game. They will also be handing out rally towels to the first 15,000 who enter the arena.
This one will be a wild one. Can the Canes keep their edge at home? Game starts at 7:30 and it will be broadcast in HD by FS Carolinas.
For more on the Jersey side of things, check out In Lou We Trust and Fire and Ice.