The New York Rangers will aim to continue their impressive playoff run and take a commanding 3-0 series lead against the Carolina Hurricanes as they face off in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Second Round at PNC Arena on Thursday. The Rangers have been flawless thus far in the playoffs, winning all six of their games, including the first two against the Hurricanes by identical 4-3 scores, with the last victory coming in double overtime on Tuesday.

New York's quest for a perfect start to the postseason is reminiscent of their 1994 Stanley Cup-winning season when they also won the first seven games. Their current streak puts them in contention to become the first team since the 2008 Pittsburgh Penguins to start the playoffs with seven consecutive wins.

Rangers forward Jimmy Vesey expressed the team's belief in their style of play and their determination to achieve the desired results. He acknowledged the enjoyment they've experienced during this streak and emphasized their commitment to embracing the challenges of the playoffs.

Meanwhile, facing a 2-0 deficit, the Hurricanes have opted for a change in netminder for Game 3, choosing Pyotr Kochetkov over Frederik Andersen. Andersen struggled in the first two games, allowing four goals in each match and possessing a save percentage of .871. Kochetkov, who last played on April 14, will make his second playoff start and his first at home. Although his stats from his previous playoff appearance were not ideal, Carolina coach Rod Brind'Amour cited Kochetkov's passionate and emotional nature as characteristics that may prove valuable on the ice.

The Hurricanes find solace in their strong home record in the playoffs, having amassed 18 wins at home since 2021, tied for the most in the League during that period. Their 3-0 home record in the first round against the New York Islanders further demonstrates their confidence in performing well on home ice. Defenseman Jaccob Slavin emphasized the team's experience and collective belief, expressing their determination to capitalize on the opportunity presented to them in Game 3.

Statistically, the odds are stacked against Carolina, as teams that hold a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series typically go on to win 86.2% of the time. However, the Hurricanes will aim to defy those odds and mount a comeback against the Rangers.

One of the key factors that have defined the series is special teams play. New York has dominated in this area, holding a perfect 4-0 advantage. Their power play has been particularly impressive, scoring four goals on nine opportunities, while their penalty kill has been flawless, shutting down all 10 of Carolina's man-advantage situations. Rangers center Vincent Trocheck looks to make history by becoming the first player in playoff history to score a power-play goal in five consecutive games.

For the Hurricanes to turn the series around, they must find a way to limit the Rangers' power-play opportunities and maintain discipline to avoid retaliatory penalties that could cost them dearly. Carolina forward Seth Jarvis acknowledged the team's inclination to retaliate but stressed the importance of focusing on the bigger picture and not falling into the Rangers' trap.

Game 3 will undoubtedly be a crucial test for both teams. The Rangers aim to continue their remarkable streak and take a stranglehold on the series, while the Hurricanes seek to bounce back and prove their resilience. With changes in goaltending and a focus on special teams, this matchup promises to be an intense battle at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina.