The Associated Press

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RALEIGH, N.C.

Andrei Svechnikov netted his first goal of the season with just under two minutes remaining, completing a comeback for the Carolina Hurricanes as they scored three goals in 8 minutes and 4 seconds to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-2 on Sunday.

After Columbus scored two goals in the beginning of the third period, Jesperi Kotkaniemi scored at 9:59 to make it 2-1 and Brady Skjei tied the game with 3:09 remaining. Svechnikov also contributed with an assist.

Svechnikov was absent for the initial eight matches of the season due to recovering from a serious knee injury. The 23-year-old All-Star also struggled to score in his initial 11 games.

Svechnikov stated that although it was a relief, he was aware that it was inevitable. He believed that the timing was appropriate and it was a significant victory for the team.

Pyotr Kochetkov blocked 21 shots, making his third appearance in four games due to Frederik Andersen’s absence caused by blood clot problems. On Friday, Antti Raanta was the goaltender for Carolina as they suffered an 8-2 defeat at home against Tampa Bay.

Johnny Gaudreau recorded a goal and an assist for Columbus, while Kirill Marchenko also found the back of the net. Elvis Merzlikins had a solid performance in goal, making 40 saves.

Svechnikov scored a goal in the slot, assisted by Sebastian Aho and beating Elvis Merzlikins. This goal occurred after Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour switched up the line combinations and placed Svechnikov on Aho’s line. Brind’Amour is optimistic that this comeback will inspire Svechnikov.

“We have all been inquired about it and we have all been empathizing with him because we genuinely care for him,” stated Brind’Amour. “He is an integral member of our team and it is crucial for him to continue performing at that level.”

Last season, Svechnikov scored 23 goals in 64 games before undergoing surgery in March to fix his right anterior cruciate ligament.

Skjei stated that he is a prominent member of the team and known by everyone. He is a dominant presence in the league.

In the third period, Marchenko scored a goal just 13 seconds in, followed by Gaudreau’s goal at 6:41 to make it 2-0.

UP NEXT

The Blue Jackets will be hosting Boston on Monday night.

The Philadelphia will host the Hurricanes on Tuesday evening.

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The Associated Press National Hockey League Hub: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Source: wralsportsfan.com