What happened: The Carolina Hurricanes are the 2026 Stanley Cup champions after a 3-0 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 6. Rookie goaltender Brandon Bussi recorded a 22-save shutout to seal the series 4-2 and secure the franchise's second championship.

Why it matters: This victory marks the first Stanley Cup for the Hurricanes since 2006 and the first under head coach Rod Brind'Amour. Jordan Staal was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, leading a dominant squad that finished the postseason with a historic 16-3 record.

What to watch: As the celebration begins in Raleigh, the Hurricanes enter the offseason as the top-ranked team in early 2027 NHL power rankings.