The Eastern Conference Finals continue tonight with Game 5 as the Panthers look to close out the series while the Hurricanes fight to extend their season after avoiding elimination with a shutout win in Game 4.
Florida dominated the first three games with a 16-4 scoring advantage, but Carolina's suffocating defense showed up when it mattered most, giving them momentum heading back to home ice.
Our expert NHL picks break down the compelling Panthers-Hurricanes clash with analysis on both the moneyline and total, including why our experts are split on which team offers the best betting value tonight.
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Hurricanes vs. Panthers betting tips
The Hurricanes showed real signs of life with their 3-0 shutout win in Game 4, finally breaking through after falling behind 3-0 in the series.
Carolina returns home to Raleigh with momentum and confidence for Game 5, where they've traditionally played their best hockey.
The Hurricanes' smothering defensive system found its form in Game 4, completely neutralizing Florida's typically potent offense.
With several key Panthers players battling injuries (Reinhart, Mikkola, and Greer were all questionable for recent games), Carolina can capitalize on a somewhat depleted opponent.
The Canes' backs are still against the wall, but they've proven they can shut down Florida when executing their system properly, making this home game a solid value play at plus money.
Florida has controlled this series from the outset, building a 3-1 lead while outscoring Carolina 16-7 across four games.
The Panthers' offensive firepower led by Barkov and Tkachuk has proven difficult for Carolina to contain in three of four games.
Florida's defensive corps has effectively limited quality scoring chances throughout most of the series, with Bobrovsky looking sharp in net.
The Panthers have shown resilience all postseason and should respond well after being shut out in Game 4.
As the more rested team with a chance to close out the series, Florida won't want to return home for Game 6 and should play with urgency to finish the job in Carolina.
Both teams have demonstrated strong defensive play recently, with Game 4 resulting in a 3-0 shutout win for Carolina.
The Hurricanes' defensive unit led by Burns and Slavin has found its form, creating turnovers and limiting Florida's high-danger chances.
Florida's defense has been stellar throughout the series, allowing just seven goals in four games with Bobrovsky playing at an elite level.
As the series intensifies with elimination on the line, we typically see tighter checking and less open play.
Both goaltenders (Andersen and Bobrovsky) appear to be in good form, suggesting another low-scoring affair is likely in Game 5.
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