NHL

Panthers vs Hurricanes

“Storm warning: value lurks in the eye of the Cats.”

Florida Panthers

Panthers (47-31-4) VS Hurricanes (47-30-5)

May 22 2025 | 7:00 PM ET | PNC Arena, Raleigh NC

Carolina Hurricanes
Moneyline Pick - Carolina Hurricanes (-130): B

Both teams come into this matchup looking to take what could be a pivotal game 2 in this series. The Panthers come in looking better than they did last season when they won the Stanley Cup, while the Hurricanes are looking to take a win at home after dropping game 1 in pretty bad fashion. Carolina’s depth advantage stands out, especially considering the uncertain status of key Panthers contributors and the potential boost for the Hurricanes’ lineup. The Hurricanes’ strong home record this season further supports their position as favourites, and with consistent goaltending, they have the edge in what could be a series defining game for both teams.

Honestly, when you look at how these teams and how they've played in these playoffs, and factor in the home ice advantage the Canes have, you can give them a slight edge over the Panthers. The Hurricanes’ recent play at home and their lineup seems healthier, which makes them a pretty safe bet here, especially with the Panthers stumbling. It’s not a slam dunk, but there’s a lot to like about Carolina’s side with a Grade B recommendation for this one.

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 22/05/2025 09:00

Over/Under Pick - Under 5.5 (-115): B

These teams head into their matchup with contrasting momentum, as the Panthers are riding great performances to end the series with the Leafs, and to start this series, while the Hurricanes are coming off a brutal 5-2 loss in Game 1, in their own barn. With both sides pushing for to take this pivotal Game 2, it’s expected that the style of play will be cautious and physical, as each team works to limit mistakes. The Panthers continue to rely on their goaltending strength, while the Hurricanes will look for their starting goalie to stay hot like he was in the first two rounds of the playoffs. In the season long series, the goals averaged out to just under 5.5 per game, things could be tight with this bet, but barring a performance like Game 1, this should be a fairly low scoring game.

If you like betting totals, the way these teams are built and the current stakes really make the under an interesting look. Five of their last ten meetings have ended under 5.5 goals, and with both squads focusing on defence in what could be a series defining Game 2, it wouldn’t be surprising to see another low-scoring battle. Even if the odds shift before puck drop, the under is where I’d lean in this spot. Grade B, and a smart angle if you’re into playoff-style hockey bets.

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 22/05/2025 09:00

Puckline Pick - Florida Panthers, -1.5 (-250): B

The Panthers roll into this one as the better team on paper, showing a clear edge in both momentum and roster health over a Hurricanes squad that looked great coming into this series but fell flat in Game 1. With reliable goaltending and a well-rounded team effort, Florida is in a strong position, especially as they look to take both games away from home to all but take this series in just two games. Carolina, on the other hand, they are definitely the underdogs but don't discount their home ice advantage, which could give them a slight edge in the game. However looking at this realistically, the Panthers are definitely in a stronger position coming into this game.

If you’re looking for a play, backing Florida on the puckline makes a lot of sense, even if the price isn’t the best. The trends—current form, special teams, and health—are all leaning the Panthers’ way, and the -1.5 option lines up with a Grade B recommendation for both solid probability and a respectable return. If you’re riding with the hot hand and favoring teams with depth this time of year, Florida is where you want your bet.

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 22/05/2025 09:01

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