Carolina Hurricanes vs. Boston Bruins: ECF Game 4 Preview and Storm Advisory

Justin Williams remembers 2014 fondly. Zdeno Chara, Patrice Bergeron, and Tuukka Rask all remember 2010, not so fondly. The odds aren’t favorable that a team can rally from a 3-0 deficit in the playoffs, but those four players are proof that while it’s a difficult task, it’s not impossible. The Hurricanes have staved off elimination twice already in these playoffs. It’s time to do so again. Twenty-seven other teams wish they were in this position. Whip out every motivational quote in your arsenal.

“Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?” - Sen. John Blutarsky

“Do not go gentle into that good night.” - Dylan Thomas

“Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.” - Jim Valvano

“You get to the end of the toothpaste and you can always squeeze a little bit more.” - Rod Brind’Amour (via Justin Williams)

“It’s not over until it’s over.” - Jaccob Slavin

“Do, or do not. There is no try.” - Yoda

“This is your time. Now go out there and take it.” - Herb Brooks

“Why. Not. Us.” - Jon Chase

Game Notes

• The Hurricanes have a 14-12 all-time record (including Hartford) when facing elimination. They have gone 7-1 in their last eight elimination games, including a 2-0 record this postseason.
• Tonight’s game marks the fifth time in franchise history that the Hurricanes trail a best-of-seven series 3-0. They have won Game 4 twice, the most recent against the New Jersey Devils in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in 2001 (overtime game-winning goal scored by Rod Brind’Amour).
• The Bruins come into tonight’s game on a six-game win streak, which is their longest since 1978. They are 14-6 all time in Game 4 in a best-of-seven series in which they lead 3-0.
• Sebastian Aho (3g, 4a) is riding a five-game points streak.
• Rod Brind’Amour said Curtis McElhinney will “probably” get the start in net tonight. McElhinney made 29 saves on 31 shots in the 2-1 loss in Game 3 on Tuesday.
• Bruins forward Chris Wagner, who scored their first goal Tuesday, was injured blocking a shot during the third period of that game and is out indefinitely. He will be replaced in the lineup by Noel Acciari.
• The Hurricanes did not practice yesterday, but held media availability: [Justin Williams and Jordan Staal] [Jaccob Slavin] [Rod Brind’Amour].

Storm Advisory

• When a team is down 3-0, it’s handy to be able to turn to a player with experience overcoming that deficit, and the Canes happen to have one. [NHL.com]
• Despite the 3-0 hole, the Canes still believe in themselves. [Sportsnet]
• Remembering a 3-0 playoff series comeback from 2010, with a few faces familiar to this series who were on the losing end. [WRALSportsFan]
• In last night’s Western Conference Finals, Logan Couture scored late in the third period, then Erik Karlsson scored in overtime to give the San Jose Sharks a 5-4 win over the St. Louis Blues and a 2-1 lead in their series. Karlsson’s game-winner came after what was an apparent hand pass in the offensive zone, but the play was not reviewable and the goal was upheld. Ah well, nevertheless. [NHL.com]
• The Carolina Panthers RAISE UP for Game 3 (lots of photos). [CH.com]
• A day in the life of a celebrity pig. [N&O]
• Former voice of the Hurricanes Chuck Kaiton joins Craig Custance on The Full 60 podcast to discuss the Canes incredible run and to reminisce about some of the greats behind hockey broadcasts. [The Athletic $]
• In Charlotte, confidence continues to grow among the tight-knit, leadership-driven Checkers. [Checkers.com]
• During long playoff runs, NHL players tend to forget what’s going on in the outside world. [AP]
• Arrive early. Wear Black. Get Loud. Take Warning.

@NHLCanes