The Carolina Hurricanes return to Lenovo Center having split the opening of their second-round series against the Washington Capitals 1-1 on the road.

And that could be a crucial difference maker for the Canes who have been one of the most dominant teams on home ice all season.

"Always nice to be in front of our fans and we're going to have to take that momentum back and use our fans to do it," said Jordan Staal. "We'd love to be up two, but it's a good team and we're going to have to start fresh at home here and take it to them again."

The Hurricanes tied their franchise record for wins at home this regular season with 31, which was also tied for the most amongst the entire league this year.

At home, the Canes scored 3.78 goals per game (3rd) while allowing just 2.46 (6th).

And the drop off was staggering once they hit the road, with just 2.71 goals per game (21st) and 3.15 against (19th).

So it's easy to see that this has been a totally different team when they are playing in Raleigh.

They've also yet to lose at home this postseason, winning all three of their games so far at Lenovo Center.

And those playoff home numbers?

4.0 goals per game and just 2.0 against versus 2.5 goals per game and 2.25 goals against when on the road.

So why the dfference?

Well, for one, there's a lot to be said about a familiar environment.

Sleeping in your own bed, walking into your own arena, knowing your end boards, etc. 

There's plenty that goes into being as comfortable and prepared as possible where you're playing.

Then there's the Lenovo Center effect.

Dubbed 'The Loudest House in the NHL,' Lenovo Center has a passionate and loud fanbase and it really can give the team energy.

"It's probably the energy," said Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour. "I would assess that the game, we're certainly not doing anything differently. So maybe it's that energy that gives you a few extra shifts in the zone because you have a little more juice which creates a little play here or there and that could be the game. I know the crowd's a big deal but it's not really a style change or anything like that."

And then there's last change, where Carolina is able to better dictate the matchups they want. 

Getting the Jordan Staal line on the top opponents and getting Sebastian Aho away from the opposing defensive lines.

"Obviously home ice is important to get the matchups we want," said Sean Walker. "I think it's something that can definitely sway a series. I think everyone's playing pretty good right now, so if you don't get them, you don't get them, but that's definitely something with going home that we'll be looking forward to."

All that stuff goes a long way.

So if the Canes can stick to the script they've written, they could very well take a stranglehold on this series.

Be sure to check out the Carolina Hurricanes 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs Hub for all postseason stories!   

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