Carolina Hurricanes chase home‑ice edge in Stanley Cup Final

# Carolina Hurricanes seize Game 5 at home in the Stanley Cup Final

Carolina Hurricanes entered Game 5 on July 5, 2026 with a 53‑22 record, sitting first in the Eastern Conference on a one‑game winning streak. After a 5‑3 road win in Las Vegas, they returned to Raleigh tied 2‑2, hoping the crowd will tip the series in their favor.

How did the Hurricanes even the series?

Jordan Staal, 37, delivered two goals on Tuesday, including a go‑ahead tally that landed on his belly in the third period. Backup netminder Brandon Bussi, a waiver‑wire pickup who logged 31 regular‑season wins, posted 18 saves in his first playoff start. The power play struck twice, converting Staal’s first goal and a Jackson Blake strike just four seconds after the man‑advantage expired. Sebastian Aho noted the team’s attention to detail, saying the players reviewed video and adjusted their play.

Why does home‑ice matter for Carolina?

Since the first full season after the COVID‑19 pause, the Hurricanes have led the NHL with 144 home wins and a .737 points‑percentage at home, according to SportRadar. Their 28 postseason home victories also top the league. Yet the past five home games include two losses, showing that the advantage isn’t guaranteed. Coach Rod Brind’Amour admitted the series’ unpredictability, but he hopes the familiar rink will help the squad close out the Cup.

What does the roster need to do next?

The Hurricanes must keep their power play sharp; it produced three goals in the last two games. Defenseman Alex Nedeljkovic will need to stay disciplined, limiting high‑danger chances for the Golden Knights. On the flip side, goaltender Frederik Andersen, who took over for the playoffs, must trust Bussi’s performance and stay ready if called upon again.

When could the Cup be hoisted in Raleigh?

If the Hurricanes win Game 5, they’ll lead the series 3‑2 and head back to Vegas for Game 6. A win in Game 6 would force a decisive Game 7 in Raleigh, giving the team a chance to clinch the championship on home ice. The series has already featured two overtime thrills and multiple comebacks, so any momentum shift could prove decisive.

The Hurricanes’ blend of veteran leadership, depth scoring, and a record‑setting home record positions them as a formidable opponent. Fans in Raleigh are already chanting, and the team hopes that the roar of the PNC Arena will translate into a championship‑winning performance.