The Florida Panthers have reached the Eastern Conference Final, standing just one series away from a potential third consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. Their opponents are the Carolina Hurricanes, who enter the series significantly more rested.
Florida secured their spot by defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs in a seven-game series, culminating in a dominant 6-1 victory in Game 7 on the road. That performance showcased the Panthers` full capabilities when playing at their peak, featuring a balanced offensive attack, strong contributions from newcomers like Brad Marchand, solid defensive play from Seth Jones, and timely saves from Sergei Bobrovsky. When they hit their stride, the Panthers are exceptionally difficult to overcome.
However, the Hurricanes, under coach Rod Brind`Amour, pose a formidable challenge. They have navigated the first two rounds with relative ease, holding an impressive 8-2 record. Carolina`s identity is built on a tight defensive structure, having allowed a league-low 18 goals through their first 10 playoff games.
A key difference for the Hurricanes this postseason has been consistent offensive production from their star players. Andrei Svechnikov leads the team with eight goals, while Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis have maintained a point-per-game pace. Success for Carolina in this final series will depend on their ability to sustain this offensive output against Florida`s robust defense.
These teams last met in the 2023 Eastern Conference Final, where the Panthers swept the Hurricanes in four games. Carolina is widely expected to make this series much more competitive this time around.
Eastern Conference Final Schedule
All times Eastern
- Game 1: Tuesday, May 20 | 8 p.m. | at CAR | TNT, truTV, Max
- Game 2: Thursday, May 22 | 8 p.m. | at CAR | TNT, truTV, Max
- Game 3: Saturday, May 24 | 8 p.m. | at FLA | TNT, truTV, Max
- Game 4: Monday, May 26 | 8 p.m. | at FLA | TNT, truTV, Max
- *Game 5: Wednesday, May 28 | 8 p.m. | at CAR | TNT, truTV, Max
- *Game 6: Friday, May 30 | 8 p.m. | at FLA | TNT, truTV, Max
- *Game 7: Sunday, June 1 | 8 p.m. | at CAR | TNT, truTV, Max
Hurricanes vs. Panthers Odds
Odds:
- Series odds: Panthers -125, Hurricanes +105
- Game 1 odds: Hurricanes -125, Panthers +105
Game 1 Score Prediction
Coming off an arduous seven-game series against Toronto, the Panthers might be at a slight disadvantage in Game 1 compared to the well-rested Hurricanes playing on home ice. Carolina`s depth could exploit this, wearing down Florida in the offensive zone and establishing an early lead. The Hurricanes` defensive prowess should then allow them to protect that lead and secure a 1-0 series advantage.
Prediction: Hurricanes 3, Panthers 1
Hurricanes vs. Panthers: Game 1 Best Bet
This series is anticipated to be closely contested with significant momentum shifts. Focusing on individual player performance can offer betting value. Carolina forward Andrei Svechnikov has been aggressive offensively throughout the playoffs, and this trend is likely to continue, particularly on the power play.
The Pick: Andrei Svechnikov Over 2.5 shots
