RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Tom Kostopoulos and Jussi Jokinen scored first-period goals off turnovers in Florida's end to help the Carolina Hurricanes beat the Panthers 7-2 on Friday night.
Tuomo Ruutu also scored in the opening period to help the Hurricanes cruise to a second straight victory against a Southeast Division rival. Carolina beat Tampa Bay in a shootout for its first win Tuesday night.
Cam Ward finished with 25 saves, though he didn't face much pressure early from Florida. Carolina had a 16-5 edge in shots in the decisive first period against the Panthers, who were playing for the first time since traveling to Finland and splitting a two-game set with Chicago last week.
Shawn Matthias and Michael Frolik scored for Florida, though those goals came long after Carolina had taken control.
