What happened: Carolina extended its lead during the second period of Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final. The Hurricanes entered the night holding a 3-2 series edge, needing one win to close out the championship round. They struck first in Game 6 before building on the margin.
Why it matters: A regulation win ends the series and hands Carolina the Stanley Cup without a deciding Game 7. Falling short, by contrast, would send the Final back for a winner-take-all finale. The next two periods carry the full weight of the franchise's title chase.
By the numbers: Carolina leads the best-of-seven Final 3-2 heading into Game 6. Teams that score first with a chance to clinch the Stanley Cup are reported to be 34-0 since 1988.
What to watch: Watch whether Carolina protects the lead to clinch the Cup, or whether a comeback forces a deciding Game 7.