Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is the Toronto Maple Leafs vs Florida Panthers. Keep checking our NHL predictions throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Florida Panthers
Series: Maple Leafs 0-3 Panthers
Our first and featured game of NHL predictions is one we didn’t think would happen. There were some that had the Panthers continuing their post-season run. However, no one thought Florida would be in a position to complete a four-game sweep of Toronto. The core players for the Maple Leafs have struggled to put in the goals, but they’ll have to step up. There is no tomorrow for Toronto if it loses this game. Joseph Woll will get the start in between the pipes. The Ilya Samsonov injury really comes at the worst time for the Leafs. Head coach Sheldon Keefe decided to go against the experienced Matt Murray in goal. All of the goodwill that Toronto had after winning the opening round is seemingly gone.
Sergei Bobrovsky is the starter once again for the Panthers. Matthew Tkachuk has dominated this series so far in the middle for Florida. The Panthers have also made the right moves system-wise against the Leafs. Some were calling for Paul Maurice’s job earlier in the season, but he’s found the right formula later in the season. Brandon Montour has been a revelation on defence and it seems like the whole roster if clicking. There’s no pressure on the Panthers right now.
Toronto will give it a shot, but Florida has too much going for it.
Prediction: Panthers win 4-3.
Vegas Golden Knights vs Edmonton Oilers
Series: Golden Knights 2-1 Oilers
Our final game of NHL predictions has the Vegas Golden Knights looking to take a 3-1 series lead. Adin Hill will likely get the start with Laurent Brossoit suffering an injury in Game 3. The Knights offence looked much like it did in their Game 1 victory. Vegas did a great job of taking Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid off their game. However, the Knights will have to find a way to stay out of the penalty box. Edmonton’s power play is on another level and staying at even strength is the best way of dealing that power play.
Stuart Skinner is still listed as the projected starter for the Oilers. However, there’s always the chance Jay Woodcroft could go with Jack Campbell in net. The old defensive woes reared their ugly head for the Oilers. Edmonton’s defence has been hot-and-cold at this time, but it has done a good job adjusting after losses. Other players are going to need to step up to help take the load off Draistaitl and McDavid.
Edmonton has shown a great ability to bounce back and they will in Game 4.
Prediction: Oilers win 5-3.
Main photo by: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
