The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 5-3 in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final on 10 June 2026, evening the championship series at 2-2. Carolina responded after falling behind in the series and secured a crucial road win in Las Vegas behind a two-goal performance from captain Jordan Staal.
Carolina delivered one of its most important performances of the postseason at T-Mobile Arena, preventing Vegas from taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. The Hurricanes, who entered the contest trailing 2-1 in the best-of-seven series, received a major boost from Jordan Staal, who scored twice, including the go-ahead goal in the third period. Nikolaj Ehlers contributed three points, while Logan Stankoven and Jackson Blake also found the net for Carolina.
The Golden Knights remained competitive throughout and attempted to rally after falling behind. Vegas had taken momentum into Game 4 following a dramatic double-overtime win in Game 3, but Carolina responded with a more composed effort and protected its advantage late in the contest. Rookie goaltender Brandon Bussi made his first career Stanley Cup Final playoff start for Carolina and earned the victory, becoming the first goalie since 1961 to win his playoff debut in the Stanley Cup Final.
The victory shifted momentum back toward Carolina and ensured the Stanley Cup Final would become a best-of-three series heading into Game 5 in Raleigh. By leveling the series at 2-2, the Hurricanes also reclaimed home-ice advantage for the remainder of the final.
• Carolina Hurricanes defeated Vegas Golden Knights: 5-3
• Jordan Staal scored two goals, including the game-winner
• Nikolaj Ehlers recorded three points for Carolina
• Brandon Bussi won in his first Stanley Cup Final playoff start
• Stanley Cup Final series tied 2-2 after Game 4
The turning point came in the third period when Jordan Staal scored the go-ahead goal to break the deadlock. Carolina protected the lead afterward and closed out the win to prevent Vegas from moving within one victory of the Stanley Cup.
Final Score: Carolina Hurricanes 5-3 Vegas Golden Knights
Tournament: Stanley Cup Final – Game 4
Date: Wednesday, 10 June 2026
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
Series Status: Tied 2-2
Top Performer: Jordan Staal – 2 goals
Goaltender Note: Brandon Bussi won in his Stanley Cup Final playoff debut
The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 5-3 in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final to level the series at 2-2 heading into Game 5.