The Florida Panthers are aiming for their third consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Final, having just overcome the Toronto Maple Leafs in a challenging seven-game series. To continue their quest to defend their title, the Panthers must now face the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final, a team that has had considerably more rest.
Florida secured their spot by dominating Game 7 in Toronto with a convincing 6-1 victory. That performance highlighted the Panthers` potential when their game is at its peak. Their offense showed depth, featuring contributions from key players. The defense was bolstered by strong play on the blue line, and the goaltender made crucial early saves. When the Panthers play with such intensity, they are exceptionally difficult to defeat.
However, the Carolina Hurricanes have had a less taxing playoff journey so far, entering this series with an 8-2 record through the first two rounds. True to Coach Rod Brind`Amour`s style, Carolina has maintained a tight defensive structure, allowing just 18 goals across their 10 playoff games.
Carolina`s success has also been fueled by significant offensive output from their top forwards. Andrei Svechnikov has already tallied eight goals this postseason, while Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis are scoring at a point-per-game pace. A key challenge for the Hurricanes in this final will be maintaining this offensive production against Florida`s tougher defensive system.
These two teams last met in the Eastern Conference Final in 2023, when the Panthers swept the Hurricanes. Carolina is expected to provide a much stronger challenge this time around.
Viewing Information for Game 1
Date: Tuesday, May 20
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Lenovo Center — Raleigh, North Carolina
TV: TNT, truTV
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 demanding series against the Maple Leafs, the Hurricanes are likely to have an advantage in Game 1 playing on home ice. Their fresh legs should provide extra energy for Carolina`s deep forward group, allowing them to wear down Florida in the offensive zone. If the Canes can establish a lead, they are adept at shutting down opponents defensively to secure a victory and take a 1-0 series lead. Prediction — Hurricanes 3, Panthers 1
Hurricanes vs. Panthers: Game 1 Best Bet
This series is anticipated to be closely contested with potential momentum swings, and Game 1 could certainly go either way. It`s wise to focus on the known strengths of each team. Carolina forward Andrei Svechnikov has been actively shooting the puck throughout the playoffs, a trend expected to continue, particularly during power play opportunities. A recommended wager for the game is on Svechnikov`s shot total. The Pick: Andrei Svechnikov Over 2.5 shots
