In a standout performance on March 28, 2025, rookie forward Jackson Blake led the Carolina Hurricanes to a 4-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens in Raleigh, North Carolina. Blake ended a 22-game goal drought by scoring once and providing two assists, marking his first career three-point game. His contributions were instrumental as the Hurricanes’ top line dominated the game.
The game began with early excitement as Montreal’s Josh Anderson netted a goal just 23 seconds into the first period. However, the Hurricanes responded swiftly. Defenseman Jaccob Slavin’s shot was redirected by Blake, leading to a fortuitous own goal by Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle, tying the game merely 18 seconds after Montreal’s opener.
The first period was marked by intense physical play and multiple penalties, with both teams failing to capitalize on their power-play opportunities. The Hurricanes’ penalty kill unit successfully neutralized two early Canadiens power plays, maintaining the 1-1 tie into the second period.
Midway through the second period, the Hurricanes seized control. Blake’s relentless forechecking forced a turnover by Montreal’s Mike Matheson, leading to a Carolina power play. On the ensuing man advantage, Taylor Hall continued his scoring streak by burying a pass from Blake between the circles, giving the Hurricanes a 2-1 lead.
The Hurricanes extended their lead less than three minutes later. Seth Jarvis delivered a precise pass to Sebastian Aho, who one-timed the puck past Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembeault, making it 3-1. This goal highlighted the synergy of Carolina’s top line, with Blake, Jarvis, and Aho all contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts.
In the third period, the Canadiens increased their offensive pressure, but Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen was steadfast, making crucial saves to preserve the lead. Andersen’s performance was pivotal, as he secured his sixth consecutive win by stopping 14 of 15 shots faced.
As the game neared its conclusion, Montreal pulled their goaltender for an extra attacker. Returning from a seven-game injury absence, Andrei Svechnikov took advantage of the empty net, sealing the 4-1 victory for Carolina.
Jackson Blake’s breakout performance was the highlight of the evening. Breaking a 22-game goal drought, he not only scored but also assisted on two crucial goals, demonstrating his potential and resilience. Blake’s journey this season has been notable; after scoring his first NHL goal on October 16, 2024, against the New Jersey Devils, he has continued to develop and adapt to the NHL’s challenges.
The Hurricanes’ top line’s dominance in this game underscores the team’s depth and offensive capabilities. With Blake’s emergence, alongside consistent contributions from Aho and Jarvis, Carolina’s forward group poses a significant threat to opponents as they continue their push towards the playoffs.
Looking ahead, the Hurricanes are set to conclude their season series and March schedule with a matchup against the New York Islanders on Sunday night. They will then finish their homestand on Wednesday by hosting the Washington Capitals before embarking on a four-game road trip, including back-to-back games in Detroit and Boston.
This victory over the Canadiens not only adds two points to Carolina’s season tally but also serves as a confidence booster, particularly for emerging talents like Jackson Blake, whose development will be crucial for the Hurricanes’ success in the postseason.
