Hurricanes Rout Blackhawks to Start Road Trip

Carolina rests top players but still dominates in 7-2 victory

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of bright blue, red, and yellow representing the dynamic action on the ice.The Hurricanes' balanced scoring attack overwhelms the Blackhawks despite resting their top players.Salt Lake City Today

The Metropolitan Division-champion Carolina Hurricanes rested several of their top players but still cruised to a 7-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks to start their season-ending road trip. The Canes scored four unanswered goals, including two from Mark Jankowski, to earn the lopsided win.

Why it matters

The Hurricanes have already clinched the division title, so they used this game as an opportunity to rest their top players and give ice time to call-ups and depth pieces. Despite the lineup changes, Carolina still dominated the game, showcasing the team's depth and ability to win without their stars.

The details

The Canes jumped out to an early 1-0 lead just 19 seconds into the game on a goal by Sean Walker. The Blackhawks tied it midway through the first, but Logan Stankoven, Alexander Nikishin, K'Andre Miller, and Jankowski all scored to give Carolina a 7-2 victory. Stankoven had a three-point night, while Jankowski scored twice.

  • The game took place on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The Hurricanes scored just 19 seconds into the first period.

The players

Carolina Hurricanes

The Metropolitan Division-champion hockey team that rested several of their top players for this game.

Chicago Blackhawks

The opponent that the Hurricanes defeated 7-2 in this game.

Logan Stankoven

The Hurricanes center who had a three-point night, including two goals.

Mark Jankowski

The Hurricanes forward who scored two goals in the game.

Sean Walker

The Hurricanes defenseman who scored the opening goal just 19 seconds into the game.

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What’s next

The Hurricanes' road trip continues on Saturday when they visit the Utah Mammoth. They'll then play the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday and the New York Islanders on Tuesday to wrap up the regular season.

The takeaway

The Hurricanes' depth was on full display as they cruised to a dominant victory over the Blackhawks despite resting several of their top players. This game showcased the team's ability to win without their stars, which will be crucial as they prepare for the playoffs.