"It’s already over" "Canes fans are so unserious" - Hockey fans react as Hurricanes' Evgeny Kuznetsov opens scoring in 2024 NHL Playoffs

In an exciting start to the 2023–24 NHL playoffs, the Carolina Hurricanes faced the New York Islanders. Forward Evgeny Kuznetsov scored in the first period, giving his team a 1-0 lead.

While some fans were excited with the Hurricanes' bright start, others were wary of how the game was unfolding.

"The first time I’ve enjoyed seeing the 🦅 celly in the playoffs," one fan marveled at the sight of Kuznetsov's celebration.

"I'm so happy Kuzy got the first goal, but man was that a bad flop by Skjei," another fan said,

Some fans expressed concern about the Canes' faceoff performance.

"So far the Hurricanes have lost 90% of their faceoffs. That’s not good. Better fix that quick. Posession will win this series," a fan pointed out.

"Give us the cup already it’s over," one fan said.

"Canes fans are so unserious," one more fan said.

The trade deadline on March 8 saw Kuznetsov move to Carolina from the Washington Capitals in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Hurricanes and Islanders set to go toe-to-toe in opening-round playoff action

Jake Guentzelc's acquisition prior to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline has paid off for the Hurricanes, with him becoming a valuable offensive asset with center Sebastian Aho. Guentzel amassed 25 points in 17 games.

On the Islanders' side, Mathew Barzal stands out as their top scorer.

In terms of goaltending, Carolina's Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov form a strong duo, with Andersen excelling since his return from injury. The Islanders have seen a resurgence in Semyon Varlamov's performance, likely making him their preferred starter over Ilya Sorokin.

Special teams play a crucial role, where the Hurricanes hold significant advantages, boasting top rankings in both power play and penalty kill. Conversely, the Islanders struggle to generate offense, especially on the power play.

Key players like Andrei Svechnikov for the Canes and Noah Dobson for the Islanders can be game-changers.

Overall, the Hurricanes' depth, talent, and disciplined play make them favorites, while the Islanders need to improve their offensive output, particularly on special teams, to compete effectively in the series.