The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-1, marking a strong performance that included goals from Martin Necas and rookie Jackson Blake. The Hurricanes scored four consecutive goals after Drew O'Connor's opening strike for the Penguins, with Necas and Shayne Gostisbehere netting power-play goals in the second period. Carolina's Frederik Andersen made 26 saves, while Pittsburgh's Joel Blomqvist faced 39 shots and struggled, allowing four goals for the first time. Notably, Penguins stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were held without a shot on goal, exacerbating the team's goaltending issues. The Penguins have a poor record against the Hurricanes under coach Rod Brind'Amour, reflecting their difficulties in the matchup. The Hurricanes will next face the St. Louis Blues in a back-to-back set.