Game five of the Eastern Conference finals was a rough and physical game. Every time the Sabres went ahead, the Hurricanes came right back. The Hurricanes can thank the power play for their victory. The Sabres fell victim to their own loose and aggressive play last night. The Hurricanes scored two of their four goals on the power play including the game winner in OT.

Eight minutes into the OT, Corry Stillman, with assists from Ray Whitney and Matt Culen, brought the home crowd to their feet as the winning goal rocketed into the net. It was a really sloppy defense on the Sabres part that led to this goal. They had a shot to clear and failed. That’s all the Hurricanes needed to set up the final blow. Looking back, this is a game the Sabres should have won.

Game six is going to be in Buffalo on Tuesday. Look for the Sabres to turn it up a notch and play very physical. The Hurricanes are just one win away from closing out this series and they have two shots at it—including a game seven, if needed, at home. The Hurricanes have already proven they can skate and steal a game in Buffalo, so game six just might be the end of the Sabres. I expect a hard fought game with the Sabres taking many shots. Carolina looks to be playing to form now, so the Sabres have their work cut out for them. Game six is going to be an extremely exciting affair.