There was a time years ago that a game between the Carolina Hurricanes and Columbus Blue Jackets resulted in a strangely endearing brand of firebrand hockey, the two teams trading chances at either end while the goaltenders struggled to stop beach balls. Then, once John Tortorella got his hands on the Jackets, the series predictably degenerated into defensive slugfests that got no one hyped.
Based on their three games this season, it looks like the pendulum is swinging back toward the zaniness that this series was once known for.
Following a lackadaisical start, the Hurricanes cranked up the afterburners, scoring six unanswered goals on their way to a 7-3 win over the Blue Jackets in their first home game following a six-game swing on the road.