NHL: Carolina 3, Tampa Bay 2

RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Eric Staal broke a tie by firing a shot past Mike Smith with 1:36 to play Thursday night, giving the Carolina Hurricanes a 3-2 decision over Tampa Bay.

The Lightning missed out in a bid to extend their winning streak to a season-long four games.

Carolina overcame a 1-0 deficit with second-period goals by Chad LaRose, which came shorthanded, and Matt Cullen.

Tampa Bay's Ryan Malone tipped in a shot 5:10 into the third period and the game appeared headed for overtime before Staal came through with his 21st goal of the season.

Cam Ward made 27 saves to win for the third time in four starts.

Smith surrendered three goals on 31 shots.

Carolina has downed Tampa Bay in all four of their meetings this year.