Hurricanes' Cole likely to play in Game 2

Carolina Hurricanes forward Erik Cole took part in a game-day skate and is expected to play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals against Pittsburgh on Thursday.

The day before, the Hurricanes weren't optimistic Cole would play because of a left knee injury. Cole was struck by Penguins forward Matt Cooke's right knee as both players skated across the slot late in the third period of Pittsburgh's 3-2 victory in Game 1 on Monday.

Hurricanes forward Tuomo Ruutu, whose right ankle was injured during a hit by Pittsburgh defenceman Mark Eaton in the first period, was held out of the practice. He is not expected to play. The Hurricanes are hopeful of getting Ruutu back for Game 3 in Raleigh on Saturday. (The Associated Press) (from Broadcast News Ltd.)