RALEIGH, N.C., March 1 (UPI) -- Sergei Samsonov's two goals and one assist Saturday led the Carolina Hurricanes to a 5-1 victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tampa Bay led 1-0 when Jeff Halpern scored his 12th goal this season at 7:04 of the first period, but Carolina scored the game's final five goals. Erik Staal's 31st tied it 1-1 at 10:43 of the first.
Staal added two assists. Tuomo Ruutu had a goal and an assist.
Netminder Cam Ward stopped 22 of 23 shots for the Hurricanes, who increased their lead over Washington in the Southeast Division to five points. Overall, they have won four of five.
Carolina defenseman Glen Wesley played in his 900th NHL contest.
Goalie Mike Smith was beaten five times after 30 Carolina shots for the Lightning, who have lost four of five.
