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 Carolina Hurricanes vs Florida Panthers. Keep checking our NHL predictions throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
Carolina Hurricanes vs Florida Panthers
Series: Hurricanes 0-3 Panthers
Our featured and only game of our NHL predictions has the Hurricanes fighting for their playoff lives. No one thought Carolina would be down 0-3 in the Eastern Conference Final against a Florida team that snuck in. The Hurricanes have struggled mightily is 5-on-5 chances with only one goal in that scenario. Both Frederik Andersen and Antti Raanta have done a solid job in goal. However, both goalies need some type of offensive support. Raanta is the projected starter for the Canes, but always check online before locking in a goalie. Scoring one goal or less isn’t going to get the job done. It also seems like the loss of Andrei Svechnikov has finally caught up to the Hurricanes.
Sergei Bobrovsky has found the game that garnered him a $10 million per season from the Panthers. He’s played a large hand in Florida’s being one game away from the team’s second-ever Stanley Cup Final. Matthew Tkachuk has also earned himself the massive contract that general manager Bill Zito gave him. Sam Reinhart got the only goal for Florida in the Game 3 victory. The Panthers have cashed in their chances, but also haven’t given up that many scoring opportunities. Florida has dominated even-strength play this series.
Carolina has a lot of grit and fight-back. However, Florida seems to be playing on another level. The Panthers book their spot in the Stanley Cup Final with the clean sweep.
Prediction: Panthers win 3-2.
Man photo by: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
