[B][I]New York

GM Chris "Rock" Ralph very pleased as the Canes pick up first playoff win since he has taken over as GM. After losing 2-1 in the opener, the Hurricanes stormed back for a 4-3 victory in the 2nd ame of the series to get back on even terms as the series swings back to Raleigh.

Scoring was a concern coming into the series & with the loss of Marco Sturm to undisclosed "lower body" injury in game 1, Ralph was concerned about who would step it up. Daniel Cleary, a scratch for game 1, stepped in on the 2nd line & opened the games scoring. GM Ralph joked he needed to inject some "Newfie blood" into the team to get them rolling. Newfoundland native Cleary provided that spark. There are rumours that CLeary was out on a big bender the night before game 2 after being a healthy scratch in game 1. He showed no ill effects during the game. When Ralph was asked to comment, he said if it was true he'll probably get a skate in the ass in the next practice....either that or I'll pay for a tab for him at the local bar!!! Whatever works!!!Cheechoo & Blake added goals & Legwand scored a late 2nd period goal which turned out to be the game winner. Former Cane Leschyshyn pocketed 2 for the losers.

Sturm is reportedly very close to 100%, but his status is unknown for game 3. The hometown fans would love to see him in the lineup to help out on some offense.


Zarley Zalapski reporting from New York