Jaccob Slavin shouldered criticism after Montreal blasted Carolina 6-2 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Slavin logged three of the four first‑period goals and finished with a minus‑4 rating, the worst of his 95 playoff games. The Canadiens seized a 1‑0 series decisive edge.

Coach Rod Brind’Amour blamed the long 11‑day layoff between series, the longest in NHL history since 1919, for the sluggish start, but players rejected that excuse. Forward Seth Jarvis noted a lack of awareness, while captain Jordan Staal said the squad gave Montreal too many freebies, allowing four first‑period goals—the most the franchise has ever surrendered in a playoff opening and hurt their confidence.

The defeat extended Carolina’s 0‑7 record in conference‑final Game 1 and continued a ten‑game home losing streak in the round, the longest such skid in Stanley Cup history. Brind’Amour insisted goaltender Frederik Andersen deserved no blame and promised a bounce‑back. Game 2 heads to Raleigh with the Hurricanes needing a swift response. Coach Brind’Amour emphasized tighter coverage and quicker transitions as keys to surviving the series.

The early deficit forces Carolina to play catch‑up, and any comeback will require Slavin to regain his defensive composure. Montreal, riding the momentum, will look to extend their lead. With the series now at 1‑0, the Hurricanes must tighten up or risk elimination in the.