North Raleigh Today

Pyotr Kochetkov made 19 saves on 21 shots, but the Carolina Hurricanes were unable to score against Linus Ullmark, who made 32 saves for the Ottawa Senators. The Hurricanes lost 3-0 at Lenovo Center.

In the first period, the Hurricanes outshot Ottawa 10-6 and had two power-play opportunities. However, the Senators scored first at 4:04 of the second period. Another goal by Ottawa at 14:45 increased their lead, and an empty-net goal in the final minute secured their victory.

The loss was Carolina's first shutout at home since March 12. Despite this, players and coach Rod Brind'Amour noted improvements in defensive structure and effort before a capacity crowd. The penalty kill was perfect for a fifth consecutive game.

Shayne Gostisbehere stood out despite his point streak ending. He ranked third on the team in shots with three and second in ice time behind Brent Burns.

Rod Brind'Amour commented on the low-scoring loss: "We've got a couple of guys who - we've been saying this for a while - have got to be a little more 'around it.' But I thought the game was, maybe of the last handful of games, one of our better games."

He added about fine margins: "That's hockey. I think they got the one bounce, and they created it...But I like the effort, and I like the process."

Sebastian Aho acknowledged needing improvement: "Obviously I've got to be better...But at the same time I think we've got to find some chemistry between linemates."

Jordan Staal spoke on offensive improvement: "I think we can be a little heavier in the offensive zone...When you start taking over games is when you start putting in three or four."

The Hurricanes will practice Saturday before facing Columbus on Sunday.