No rest yet for Hurricanes workhorse Ward

The iron man of the Carolina Hurricanes' late-season surge isn't getting a day off just yet.

Coach Paul Maurice said after practice Monday that goalie Cam Ward will make his 27th straight start Tuesday night when the Hurricanes play the New York Islanders.

The Hurricanes have clinched their first playoff berth since 2006 and are chasing the No. 4 seed in the East -- and the home-ice advantage in the first round that comes with it.

Maurice wants backup Michael Leighton to be prepared in case he's needed in the postseason, but he also wants Ward's momentum rolling forward entering the playoffs.

Ward is 18-6-2 during his streak and is a major reason why the Hurricanes have won eight straight overall and a club-record 11 in a row on home ice.