Carolina (0-2) at Florida (2-0)
- When: May 24 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise, FL, USA
- TV: TNT
Hurricanes vs Panthers – Eastern Conference Finals Game 3 Preview and Prediction
Moneyline: Florida -160 | Total: 5.5
Carolina Hurricanes Preview
The Hurricanes are once again staring down the barrel of a 2-0 series deficit in the Eastern Conference Finals a position that’s ended in sweeps their last two tries. After a lifeless 5-0 shutout in Game 2, Carolina looked nothing like the team that led the NHL in shot attempts and peppered goalies all season. They managed only seven shots on goal through two periods, drawing sarcastic “Shoot the puck!” chants from their own fans.
The team that averaged nearly 32 shots per game and dominated puck possession is now struggling to even test the goalie. In Game 1, despite outshooting Florida 33-20, they couldn’t find the net until it was far too late. Captain Jordan Staal remains defiant: “We’ve come back before. It starts with one.” But bettors should note: Carolina’s offense has sputtered against elite playoff defenses, and desperation alone doesn’t win hockey games.
Carolina Player Prop to Watch:
Sebastian Aho Over 2.5 Shots on Goal – Aho will need to lead the charge and shoot early to shift the series momentum.
Florida Panthers Preview
The Panthers are thriving in familiar territory: up 2-0 as a lower seed, just like in 2023. They’re now back home in Sunrise with a chance to put Carolina on the ropes again. Florida’s offense has clicked, their physicality has disrupted the Canes, and their depth is showing up big.
Matthew Tkachuk has been as advertised physical, skilled, and annoyingly clutch racking up 12 points in 14 games. Florida’s attack is spread out, with six players in double-digit points this postseason, and their defensive structure is giving Carolina fits.
One concern is the status of Sam Reinhart, who left Game 2 with a lower-body injury after a hit from Sebastian Aho. His absence could impact Florida’s special teams and top-line chemistry.
Florida Player Prop to Watch:
Matthew Tkachuk Over 1.5 Points – He’s Florida’s tone-setter and thrives in high-stakes situations.
Prediction
The Panthers have the momentum, the goaltending, and the home-ice crowd. Unless Carolina rediscovers their shooting touch, Florida likely grinds out another win.
Final Score Prediction: Panthers 3, Hurricanes 2
Best Bet: Florida ML (-160)
Total: Under 5.5 (-128) – Expect a tighter, more desperate Game 3 pace.
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
