The Carolina Hurricanes (3-4-0) look to end their slump against an inconsistent Toronto Maple Leafs team (4-4-0) when the two clubs meet on Monday night.
After winning two straight against the Buffalo Sabres, the Hurricanes have won just once in three games; that lone victory was a 1-0 win over Ottawa. In Carolina's most recent match, the team was defeated handily 5-3 against the Philadelphia Flyers. Carolina never led in the entire match and got goals from Jon Pitkanen, Eric Staal, and Patrick Dwyer. Starter Dan Ellis stopped just eight of 12 shots and was pulled early in the second period. Captain Eric Staal was not impressed by the performance and blamed the team's poor showing on special teams for the loss.
"Both areas, penalty kill and power play, cost us the game. I thought we were the better team overall. We had 40-plus shots, limited them to a lot less," said Staal. "Special teams win you games in this League and it did for them tonight."
The Maple Leafs had won two straight before being shutout 1-0 against the Boston Bruins on Saturday night. James Reimer made the start in goal for Toronto and made 33 saves in the losing effort.
Coach Randy Carlyle was happy with his keeper's performance. ''James Reimer gave us a chance,'' said Carlyle. ''That's all you can ask of your goaltender. I thought he made some big stops.''
Reimer likely gets his fifth straight start against Monday against Carolina.
Predictions: Neither team has yet to impress. This match will come down to goal tending. Cam Ward is likely the starter against Reimer. If Reimer continues playing as he has of late, then Toronto can win this. However, Carolina has a stronger defense group and should shut down the Leafs.
Start Time: 7 PM EST
TV: FS-CR, SNET-O
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