Sat Sep 27 23:30:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Hurricanes’ Late Push Falls Short in 6-5 Loss to Lightning**
**Tampa, FL -** Despite a furious late-game rally, including a goal with just 10 seconds remaining, the Carolina Hurricanes fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 6-5 on Friday night.
The Hurricanes, fielding a lineup largely composed of non-NHL players, demonstrated resilience throughout the game. Prospect goalie Amir Miftakhov played the entire game, facing a barrage of shots and ultimately allowing six goals on 28 attempts.
Carolina’s special teams struggled mightily. The Hurricanes failed to convert on all seven of their power play opportunities, including a lengthy 5-on-3 advantage. On the penalty kill, they allowed two goals on three Lightning power plays.
Forward Tyson Jost led the team in ice time with 22:05, also recording five shots on goal and three hits. Defenseman Alexander Nikishin logged 21:49 and led the team with four blocked shots.
The Hurricanes’ scoring was distributed amongst several players, with Givani Smith, Gleb Trikozov, Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Noel Gunler, and Bradly Nadeau all finding the back of the net. Smith, known for his physical presence, also registered a team-high seven hits and contributed to Nadeau’s late goal.
Kotkaniemi left the game late after taking a stick to the face. His condition is currently unknown.
The 0-3 Hurricanes will have a day off from practice on Saturday before returning to Raleigh to face the Nashville Predators on Sunday night.
First Piper 