Lightning, Hurricanes Clash in Raleigh

Carolina looks to extend home win streak against Tampa Bay

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes meet at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday night. The Lightning have won 6 straight games and 20 of their last 22, while the Hurricanes have won 8 of their last 10 and are 8-0-1 at home since January 6. Carolina goaltender Brandon Bussi has been stellar, posting a 2.16 GAA and .905 save percentage with 2 shutouts this season.

Why it matters

This matchup features two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, with the Lightning and Hurricanes battling for positioning atop the standings. Carolina has been particularly dominant at home, making this a crucial game for both clubs as they look to gain an edge heading into the playoffs.

The details

The teams met earlier this season in Tampa, with the Lightning coming back from a 3-0 deficit to win 6-4. Tampa Bay has been on a tear lately, led by forward Brayden Point, who had 2 goals in the team's 4-2 win over Toronto on Wednesday. Carolina is also playing well, shutting out the Rangers 2-0 in their last game before the Olympic break. Goaltender Brandon Bussi has been a big part of the Hurricanes' success, posting a 23-3-1 record with a 2.16 GAA.

  • The teams met on December 20, with the Lightning winning 6-4.
  • Tampa Bay defeated Toronto 4-2 on Wednesday.
  • Carolina last played on February 5, beating the Rangers 2-0.

The players

Brayden Point

A forward for the Tampa Bay Lightning who scored 2 goals in the team's last game.

Brandon Bussi

The starting goaltender for the Carolina Hurricanes, who has a 23-3-1 record with a 2.16 goals-against average and 2 shutouts this season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.