Hurricanes won a clash at the top with Lightning

The Carolina Hurricanes claimed a solid win on the road against the third-placed Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday. The matchup finished 4-3 after penalties and was an important stage in the race to the top.

Carolina's Sebastian Aho scored the game-winning goal.

Carolina has extended their lead in their division to 15 points, while New York sits one point back.

The Hurricanes took the lead in the first period, with a goal from Seth Jarvis. Paul Stastny assisted.

Four goals were scored in the second period, and the Lightning led 3-2 going in to the third period.

Brady Skjei tied the game 3-3 late into the third period.

The Hurricanes won the game 4-3 in the shootout. Sebastian Aho provided the decisive penalty shot.

Tampa Bay is now 6–4–1, while Carolina improves to 7–2–1.

Carolina are now in second place, while Tampa Bay is in third place.

Next games:

The Lightning host the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Amalie Arena. The Hurricanes will face Buffalo at home on Friday at 7 p.m. at PNC Arena.