RALEIGH, N.C. — With Derek Stepan goal-less in 22 games, Kevin Hayes with one goal in 11 and Mika Zibanejad with two in 21 games, Alain Vig neault made the most obvious statement before Thursday night’s game against the Hurricanes: “We need some plays from our centermen.”
Zibanejad “is competing harder,” Vigneault said. “He’s got to utilize his assets, his speed and skill with the puck.”
And he did. Zibanejad scored two power-play goals in the second period Thursday night.
“Stepan right now has got to come in and see every game as a new opportunity,” Vigneault said.