Game 4 Recap
The Carolina Hurricanes forced a Game 5 in the Stanley Cup Final on Tuesday, beating the Vegas Golden Knights 5‑3 in a tightly contested contest that left the series knotted at 2‑2.
Jordan Staal was the catalyst, notching two goals, the decisive one coming in the third period to put Carolina ahead for good. The tally marked a historic first: Staal became the first captain in NHL history to score in each of his first four Stanley Cup Final games.
Goalie Brandon Bussi, making his inaugural playoff start, turned away 18 shots, preserving the lead and delivering a performance that instantly entered the franchise’s postseason lore.
Logan Stankoven opened the scoring early, his 11th playoff goal of the run, and the young forward’s physical presence set the tone for Carolina’s aggressive forecheck.
Vegas answered in the second period, with William Karlsson and Brett Howden each finding the net to narrow the gap, but the Hurricanes’ defense held firm, limiting high‑danger chances.
What’s Next?
With the series shifting back to Raleigh for Game 5, the Hurricanes will look to ride the momentum of their veteran leaders while Bussi tries to build on his breakthrough performance. The Golden Knights, still trailing in second‑period scoring, will aim to reclaim that edge and force a Game 6.