Hurricanes Extend Win Streak to Franchise Record

The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-2 on Thursday night in Raleigh, N.C., extending their season-opening winning streak to nine games. Mark Jankowski scored the decisive goal in the third period, while Pyotr Kochetkov recorded 24 saves to secure the victory.

The win marks the fourth triumph for the defending Stanley Cup champions in their last five games. Coach Rod Brind'Amour's squad has not conceded a loss or point since the season began. Kochetkov's performance set a new franchise record for the longest undefeated start to a season.

The Blue Jackets opened the scoring against the Hurricanes early in the game. Jordan Martinook broke the deadlock with 4:09 remaining in the first period, beating Jet Greaves from the left circle. Logan Stankoven extended the lead to 2-0 in the second period, marking his ninth goal of the season and his fifth in six home games.

Columbus responded with two goals in the third period to close the gap. Denton Mateychuk and Kent Johnson each tallied to make the score 2-2. Seth Jarvis provided two assists for Carolina, supporting the offensive effort.

Jankowski settled the match 16 seconds into the third period. His goal gave the Hurricanes a 3-2 cushion that proved difficult for the Blue Jackets to overcome. Greaves stopped 24 shots in the loss.

The Blue Jackets will travel to Dallas for Saturday night's game. The Hurricanes remain in Raleigh to host the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday.