Fri Sep 26 23:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Carolina Hurricanes lost their first exhibition game to the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1. Goalie Cayden Primeau, recently acquired from Montreal, played the entire game and made 18 saves on 20 shots. He chose to wear number 55 as a tribute to his father, who previously wore the number for Carolina, and to his ailing grandfather. The Lightning scored late in the first period and added a power-play goal in the second. Carolina’s lone goal came in the third period by Logan Stankoven, assisted by Kevin Labanc. A previous goal by Labanc was disallowed for offsides. Alexander Nikishin impressed with his ice time and all-around play. The Hurricanes take a day off before facing Florida in their next preseason game.

**News Article:**

**Hurricanes Fall to Lightning in Preseason Opener, Primeau Honors Family with Jersey Number**

RALEIGH, NC – The Carolina Hurricanes dropped their first exhibition game of the season Monday night, falling 2-1 to the Tampa Bay Lightning at home. Despite outshooting the Bolts 30-20, the Hurricanes couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities.

Goaltender Cayden Primeau, acquired in the offseason from Montreal, was a bright spot for Carolina, stopping 18 of 20 shots faced. Primeau revealed after the game he selected jersey number 55, the same number his father wore during his time with the Hurricanes, as a tribute to both his father and his grandfather, who is currently unwell.

Tampa Bay scored late in the first period following a Carolina turnover and extended their lead with a power-play goal in the second. The Hurricanes finally got on the board in the third period when Logan Stankoven tipped in a shot from Kevin Labanc. An earlier highlight-reel goal by Labanc was waved off due to an offsides call. Labanc, currently on a tryout with the team, impressed with his skill and versatility.

Defenseman Alexander Nikishin stood out, leading the team in ice time (23:08) and showcasing his physical presence with three hits and two blocked shots. He also displayed comfort quarterbacking the power play.

The Hurricanes will take Tuesday off before returning to the ice on Wednesday for their next preseason matchup against the Florida Panthers.

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