Hurricanes Clinch Metropolitan Division Title in OT Thriller

Carolina overcomes Bruins' hat trick to win division crown in extra time

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:50am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring overlapping brushstrokes of neon blue, orange, and pink, conveying the intense action and emotion of an overtime hockey game.The Hurricanes' thrilling overtime victory against the Bruins exemplifies the passion and drama of playoff-caliber NHL hockey.Today in Raleigh

The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Boston Bruins 6-5 in overtime on Tuesday night to clinch their fourth Metropolitan Division title in the last six seasons. The game-winning goal was scored by Jaccob Slavin just 1:13 into the extra period.

Why it matters

The Hurricanes' victory secures them the top seed in the Metropolitan Division for the upcoming NHL playoffs, giving them home-ice advantage in the early rounds. This continues Carolina's run of success in the highly competitive Metropolitan, which features several other top contenders.

The details

The Bruins jumped out to an early lead, thanks to a hat trick from forward Jack Geekie. However, the Hurricanes battled back, tying the game late in regulation before Slavin's overtime heroics sealed the division title for Carolina.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • Jaccob Slavin scored the game-winning goal in overtime at the 1:13 mark.

The players

Jaccob Slavin

A defenseman for the Carolina Hurricanes who scored the overtime game-winning goal to clinch the division title.

Jack Geekie

A forward for the Boston Bruins who scored a hat trick in the losing effort.

Carolina Hurricanes

The NHL team that won the Metropolitan Division title with their overtime victory.

Boston Bruins

The NHL team that lost to the Hurricanes in overtime despite a strong performance.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge win for our team and our fans. We battled back all night and found a way to get it done in overtime.”

— Jaccob Slavin, Hurricanes Defenseman

What’s next

The Hurricanes will now prepare to host the first round of the NHL playoffs as the Metropolitan Division champions.

The takeaway

The Hurricanes' overtime victory showcases their resilience and ability to win close, high-stakes games against top opponents. This division title continues the team's recent run of success and sets them up well for a deep playoff run.