The Caniacs are once again rocking PNC Arena

The Carolina Hurricanes are carrying on the tradition of having an absolutely electric home crowd for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. 

Things almost felt like they were back to normal for Game 1 of the Central Division Round 1 series between the Hurricanes and Nashville Predators. Fans packed PNC Arena to the tune of (a reported) 12,000 fans, which is a sellout when combined with the new safety protocols in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

“That’s hockey,” Canes captain Jordan Staal said after the game. “For everyone, it’s been a long time coming. It’s no better feeling than playing a big game at home with the fans like that. The boys were ready, the fans were ready. Playoff hockey, there’s nothing better.”

For goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic, his first Stanley Cup Playoffs start couldn't have come in a better atmosphere. 

“It was awesome,” Nedeljkovic said. “It was incredible. It’s one of the best atmospheres that I’ve ever played in front of.”

It was the largest indoor event in North Carolina since the start of the pandemic after the decision by governor Roy Cooper to lift COVID-19 capacity restrictions, and it was the largest NHL crowd of the season. 

And tonight for Game 2, it's the same deal - it's another packed house.