Blue Jackets Fall Short in Raleigh, Hurricanes Escape With 3-2 Win

The Hurricanes squeaked past the Blue Jackets 3-2 at PNC Arena, but this one was closer than Carolina would've liked. Columbus came to play, hanging tough with one of the Metro's heavyweights and making the Canes earn every inch of ice down the stretch.

Carolina built their cushion early and managed to hold on despite Columbus pushing hard in the final frame. The Blue Jackets showed grit, clawing back to make it a one-goal game and generating legitimate pressure late, but couldn't find the equalizer when it mattered most. Credit where it's due—Columbus didn't roll over against a team that's supposed to handle them comfortably.

For the Hurricanes, three goals was enough, but barely. They'll take the two points and run, though this wasn't the dominant performance you'd expect at home against a rebuilding squad. The Blue Jackets continue their frustrating season of moral victories that don't show up in the standings, while Carolina banks another win without looking particularly impressive doing it.

DarkHorse didn't weigh in on this one, which is probably for the best—these tight Metro divisional scraps can go sideways fast. The Canes got the result, but Columbus proved they're not just rolling over for anyone this year.