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RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — The Carolina Hurricanes will learn their opponent for the Eastern Conference Final tonight following the conclusion of the Montreal-Buffalo Game 7 matchup.
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When the Hurricanes finally return to the ice, they’ll do so after an unprecedented 11 full days off, setting a new modern-day NHL record for the longest layoff between playoff games. The extended break has provided players with additional recovery time, while also giving them more opportunities to speak with the media ahead of the next round.
Following practice, forward Taylor Hall reflected on his strong postseason performance and what has driven his play during the team’s playoff run.
“This is probably my best chance at the Stanley Cup, and it’s just so fun to chase a dream like that,” Hall said. “It’s really cool to be in the middle of it.”
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Hall has been one of Carolina’s standout performers this postseason, prompting many to describe his play as a return to vintage form. When asked if he feels he is playing some of the best hockey of his career, Hall quickly shifted the focus to his teammates.
“Yeah, I feel I am playing well, but I think our whole team is playing well,” Hall said. “Our line with Blakey [Jackson Blake] and Stank [Logan Stankoven] has been good, and we finished the regular season pretty strong. We are scoring, we are playing well all over the ice, and I think that has translated to the playoffs.”
Regardless of opponent, Hall and the rest of the Canes will be taking the ice Thursday night in Raleigh when the Eastern Conference Final is set to start. Puck drop for Game 1 at Lenovo Center is at 8 p.m.
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