Cats Head Home After 3-2 Loss in Carolina

The ice at the RBC center proved tricky for both teams, causing problems on scoring opportunities. The Panthers though came out on the short end falling to the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2.

The Panthers though still sit eight points out of eighth place Montreal Canadiens. The Canadiens, the Tampa Bay Lightning and the New Jersey Devils were all idle not enabling either team to further their lead on the Cats.

Chris Gratton opened up the scoring with his 17th of the season on a breakaway attempt at 4:19 of the first period. Steve Montador set up the goal as he lifted the puck over three Carolina defenders to an open Gratton who shot the puck through the five-hole of Martin Gerber. Jay Bouwmeester notched his 36th assist as the goal came

Mike Van Ryn fought hard for his sixth goal of the season as he trailed down the ice. As he reached the net he took aim and fired with his shot deflecting off of a falling Aaron Ward who was looking to block the shot.

Joe Nieuwendyk proved effective again on the face-off winning 13 for the night.

Roberto Luongo had 27 saves.