Hurricanes get a quick boost from Evgeny Kuznetsov addition to start NHL playoffs

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Evgeny Kuznetsov wasted no time making a postseason impact for the Carolina Hurricanes. It’s a promising sign for what could be ahead in the NHL playoffs.

The trade-deadline acquisition bolstered a deep Carolina team trying to take the final step in a multi-year run as a Stanley Cup contender. Yet as the Hurricanes look for a 2-0 lead in their first-round series against the New York Islanders on Monday, what was viewed at the time as a low-risk move has already offered the first postseason payoff with Kuznetsov’s talent and experience as a Cup winner in Washington.

“He’s a proven winner,” coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “He’s done it in the playoffs and he’s got a Stanley Cup ring to prove it. ... He’s a veteran guy, there’s certainly no panic in his game. In this type of environment, that’s, I think, what makes him special.”