The Carolina Hurricanes dropped a high scoring 7–5 decision to the Montreal Canadiens at Lenovo Center, as defensive breakdowns overshadowed a historic offensive performance.
Carolina generated offense at a high level, but Montreal’s physical edge and ability to capitalize on key moments ultimately decided the outcome.
Game Recap
The Hurricanes finished with 25 shots on goal to Montreal’s 23 and controlled the faceoff circle, winning 55.6 percent of the draws. Carolina was also effective on special teams, going 2 for 3 on the power play.
Where the game turned was in the details away from the puck. Montreal finished with 26 hits compared to Carolina’s 18 and blocked 15 shots to the Hurricanes’ 10, disrupting Carolina’s flow and limiting sustained pressure in the offensive zone.
Aho’s Career Night
The performance of the night belonged to Sebastian Aho, who delivered a career high five point night, factoring into all five Carolina goals. Aho finished with two goals and three assists, directly driving every offensive breakthrough the Hurricanes had.
Every Carolina goal ran through Aho. His vision, pace, and decision making powered the Hurricanes’ attack and marked one of the most dominant individual performances of his career, even in a loss.
Defensive and Lineup Notes
Injuries continue to test the Hurricanes, particularly on the blue line. Jaccob Slavin remains sidelined, and his absence was evident in a high event game that lacked defensive structure and physical resistance.
Up front, Seth Jarvis is still out but trending closer to a return. Jarvis skated in a yellow non contact jersey at practice, typically one of the final steps before full clearance. His speed and finishing should provide an immediate boost once he rejoins the lineup.
Goaltending Outlook
With Pyotr Kochetkov expected to miss the remainder of the season, Carolina’s goaltending situation is firmly in focus. The Hurricanes will rely on Frederik Andersen and Brandon Bussi moving forward.
Andersen was in the starter crease at practice, signaling he may be leaned on as the primary option as Carolina looks to stabilize defensively.
Up Next
There is no break for the Hurricanes, who return to action on January 3 at 7:00 PM, hosting the Colorado Avalanche at Lenovo Center.
