The Washington Capitals face a potential elimination game as they host the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs. The Hurricanes have established a dominant 3-1 series lead, securing back-to-back victories on home ice with scores of 4-0 in Game 3 and 5-2 in Game 4. The pivotal Game 5 is set to take place at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C., with the puck dropping at 7 p.m. ET.
Current betting odds list Carolina as the moneyline favorite at -170 (risking $170 to win $100), while Washington is the underdog at +142 (risking $100 to win $142). The total number of goals expected is set with an over/under of 5.5. Additionally, Carolina is favored on the puck line at -1.5 (+154). Prospective bettors should consider the NHL predictions from SportsLine`s well-regarded model before making their wagers.
The SportsLine Projection Model runs simulations of every NHL game 10,000 times. The model has demonstrated strong performance early in the conference semifinals of the 2025 NHL playoffs, holding a combined record of 79-55 on top-rated NHL puck-line and over/under betting selections, resulting in substantial returns for players wagering $100.
Based on the model`s analysis, here are some top betting recommendations for the Capitals vs. Hurricanes Game 5:
Capitals +1.5 (-185)
While Carolina delivered dominant performances in their home wins, Washington has proven more resilient on their own ice. The Capitals have successfully covered the puck line in four out of their five home playoff matchups this postseason. Their only failure to cover at home was a close 2-1 overtime defeat to the Hurricanes in the opening game of the conference semifinals. The SportsLine model projects a high probability, exceeding 80% of simulations, that the Capitals will cover the puck line in Game 5.
Andrei Svechnikov over 2.5 shots on goal (-155)
Carolina`s Russian forward has consistently hit the over on 2.5 shots on goal in three of his last four contests. Across his nine playoff games to date, Svechnikov has registered a total of 31 shots, including a notable six-shot performance in the first game of the series against the New Jersey Devils.
Dylan Strome 1+ points (-190)
Dylan Strome stands out as the leading scorer among all players from both teams in the playoffs, accumulating 11 points through nine games. His offensive production includes an impressive nine assists over that span, with two helpers coming against Carolina. Strome was also a consistent contributor at home during the regular season, tallying 44 points (14 goals, 30 assists) in 41 games at Capital One Arena.
For additional NHL betting advice for Thursday`s game, expert Matt Severance is recognized as SportsLine`s top NHL analyst, boasting a strong record on NHL side picks entering the playoffs.
