The Florida Panthers stand just one series victory away from potentially their third consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup Final, having just emerged from a tough seven-game battle with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Their next formidable opponent in the Eastern Conference Final is a Carolina Hurricanes squad that has enjoyed considerably more rest.
Florida demonstrated their peak capabilities in a decisive 6-1 victory over Toronto in Game 7. This performance highlighted their balanced offensive attack, featuring key contributions like newcomer Brad Marchand, improved defensive play with impact players like Seth Jones stepping up, and timely saves from Sergei Bobrovsky. When firing on all cylinders, the Panthers appear nearly unstoppable.
In contrast, the Carolina Hurricanes have had a smoother journey through the first two rounds, boasting an 8-2 record. True to coach Rod Brind`Amour`s philosophy, Carolina has excelled defensively, allowing a mere 18 goals across 10 playoff games.
Carolina`s offensive success has largely come from their top forwards, including Andrei Svechnikov with eight goals already this postseason, and Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis contributing at a point-per-game pace. A key challenge for the Hurricanes in this series will be maintaining this offensive output against Florida`s stout defensive structure.
These two teams last met in the Eastern Conference Final in 2023, a series that saw the Panthers sweep the Hurricanes. Carolina is expected to provide a much tougher test and make this series 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
- Series odds: Panthers -125, Hurricanes +105
- Game 1 odds: Hurricanes -125, Panthers +105
Game 1 Score Prediction
Given the Panthers` recent taxing series and the Hurricanes` rest advantage, Carolina should have an edge, particularly on home ice in Game 1. The Hurricanes` fresher legs and deep forward group can wear down Florida`s defense. If Carolina takes the lead, their defensive strength can help them secure the win. Prediction: Hurricanes 3, Panthers 1.
Hurricanes vs. Panthers: Game 1 Best Bet
This series is anticipated to be closely contested with shifting momentum. For Game 1, focusing on player performance based on team tendencies is a good approach. Carolina forward Andrei Svechnikov is known for shooting frequently, especially on the power play. A favored bet for Game 1 is the over on Svechnikov`s shot total. The Pick: Andrei Svechnikov Over 2.5 shots.
Torin Vale 
Elton Marrow