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 Florida Panthers vs Vegas Golden Knights. Keep checking our NHL predictions throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
Vegas Golden Knights vs Florida Panthers
Series: Panthers 1-3 Golden Knights
Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final is our featured game in NHL predictions. The Florida Panthers have to win or else their run to the Stanley Cup is over. Matthew Tkachuk‘s status for Game 5 is still unknown as of this time. Tkachuk missed 10 minutes of the third period before returning in Florida’s failed comeback bid. The status of Anthony Duclair is also uncertain as of this time. Sergei Bobrovsky will once again likely get the start in goal for the Panthers. Florida is looking to be the first team to win the Stanley Cup after being down 3-1 since before World War II. However, the Panthers did climb out of a 1-3 hole when they stunned the Boston Bruins in the first round.
Vegas is looking to win its first Stanley Cup in franchise history. The Golden Knights will be the second-fastest team to win the Cup if they do hoist the title. Only the Philadelphia Flyers franchise will have gotten a Stanley Cup title quicker. Adin Hill will once again draw the start for Vegas as he looks to cash in in free agency. There are other good Conn Smythe candidates like Mark Stone, Jonathan Marchessault and Jack Eichel. However, they care about claiming the big prize on home ice. A win in Game 5 would allow the Golden Knights to join the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces.
Not having Tkachuk would be a big blow to the Panthers, but he’ll do everything in his power to play. However, that may not be enough as Vegas will hoist the Cup tonight at home.
Prediction: Golden Knights win 4-2.
Main photo by: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
