The NHL Eastern Conference Finals resume tonight with the Hurricanes looking to bounce back after allowing their highest goal total of the postseason in Game 1.
With Carolina having lost 13 straight Eastern Conference Final games dating back to 2009, Game 2 projects as a defensive battle between two teams that typically excel at limiting scoring chances.
Our NHL best bets focus on a total that oddsmakers may have set too high given the defensive prowess and goaltending talent on both sides.
NHL best bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 8:00 PM | Under 5.5 Goals (-115)|Florida Panthers Moneyline (+105)|Frederik Andersen Over 29.5 Saves (-110) |
Hurricanes vs. Panthers
Thursday, May 22
8:00 PM
Lenovo Center, Raleigh, NC
The Panthers and Hurricanes are both defensively sound teams that could tighten up after a 7-goal Game 1 in the series.
Carolina has struggled offensively at times, while Florida's Sergei Bobrovsky has been exceptional recently with a .952 save percentage over his last five games.
The Hurricanes have played under the total in four of their last six games, suggesting a trend toward lower-scoring contests.
Despite Carolina outshooting Florida 33-20 in Game 1, expect Rod Brind'Amour's squad to focus on their defensive identity to even the series.
These teams have played under the total in six of their last ten meetings, further supporting the case for a lower-scoring Game 2.
The Panthers have won five of their last six games and have momentum after taking Game 1 of the series with a convincing 5-2 victory.
Florida's offense has been clicking, scoring 17 goals in their last three road games, which presents a major challenge for Carolina's defense.
The Panthers' special teams have been superior, converting over 23% of their power play opportunities while Carolina has struggled at 18%.
Defensively, Florida has allowed just four goals in their last three road games and just six total goals in their last five playoff contests.
Carolina has lost 13 consecutive Eastern Conference Final games since 2009, suggesting a psychological hurdle they need to overcome.
Despite allowing five goals in Game 1, Andersen still maintains a strong 1.74 goals-against average and .913 save percentage in the postseason.
Carolina was outshot by Florida in Game 1, but that's atypical - the Hurricanes actually outshot the Panthers 33-20, suggesting they'll continue to push offensively.
The Panthers have shown they can generate quality scoring chances even when being outshot, meaning Andersen will likely face numerous high-danger opportunities.
With Carolina looking to even the series at home, expect them to play more aggressively, potentially leading to a back-and-forth game with plenty of shots.
Andersen will be motivated for a bounce-back performance after a disappointing Game 1, which should lead to sharper play and more saves.
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