The Carolina Hurricanes are feeling the heat as they face elimination in the Eastern Conference finals against the Florida Panthers. After losing Game 3, players expressed regret over failing to defend star center Sebastian Aho when he was targeted by Panthers winger Matthew Tkachuk late in the game. Tkachuk's aggressive actions were seen as retaliation for Aho's previous hit that sidelined Florida's Sam Reinhart.

Despite being on the receiving end of rough play, the Hurricanes did not retaliate, which left players like Taylor Hall questioning their response. Coach Rod Brind'Amour echoed these sentiments, stating that they should have backed each other up more effectively, especially given the game's final score. As they prepare for a must-win Game 4, the Hurricanes must find a way to rally together and support one another on the ice to avoid a 16th consecutive loss in the Eastern Conference finals.