Carolina (47-28-5) at Montreal (39-31-11)
- When: Apr 16 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Bell Centre, Montreal, QC, CAN
- TV: FDSSO
Betting Preview & Predictions: Hurricanes vs Canadiens
Line: Montreal (-120) | Total: 6.0
With their playoff spot already secured, the Carolina Hurricanes head to Montreal on Wednesday night without much to gain, except getting healthy before the postseason begins. Meanwhile, the Canadiens are still fighting tooth and nail to lock in their playoff berth, making this a crucial late-season matchup from a betting perspective.
Carolina Hurricanes Outlook
The Hurricanes (47-28-5) are firmly set as the No. 2 seed in the Metropolitan Division and will take on the New Jersey Devils in the opening round. With nothing left to play for in the standings, Carolina is expected to take a conservative approach to lineup decisions. Head coach Rod Brind’Amour has hinted that resting key players is the priority as they deal with minor injuries. Jordan Martinook, who hasn’t missed a game in two seasons, is likely out again to nurse a minor issue, while defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere and center Jesperi Kotkaniemi could return to the lineup after missing several games.
Despite their playoff position, the Canes come into this game cold, having lost five of their last six (1-4-1). Scoring has been inconsistent, and with limited motivation, bettors should be cautious backing Carolina on the road, especially if the lineup features multiple reserves or AHL call-ups.
Montreal Canadiens Outlook
Montreal (39-31-11) enters this game with urgency. They’re clinging to the second wild card in the East, just two points ahead of Columbus. After a six-game win streak, the Habs have stumbled with three straight losses (0-1-2), most recently a 4-3 shootout setback to Chicago in a game they once led 2-0. Still, Montreal controls its own destiny and can all but secure a playoff spot with a win here.
Rookie sensation Ivan Demidov, the No. 5 overall pick from the 2024 draft, debuted against the Blackhawks and wasted no time making his presence felt with a goal and an assist. If the Canadiens come out with the same energy and Demidov continues to contribute, Montreal should capitalize on a potentially short-handed and unmotivated Carolina team.
Betting Prediction
The Canadiens are slight favorites at -120 on the moneyline, and the total is set at 6.0. Given Carolina’s cautious approach and recent struggles, Montreal holds clear value on home ice with everything on the line. Look for the Canadiens to dictate tempo early and push the pace against a team more focused on staying healthy than getting results.
Final Score Prediction:
Canadiens 5, Hurricanes 2
Best Bet: Montreal ML (-120)
Lean on the Over 6.0 (-103) if Carolina sits starters on defense and Montreal pushes the pace.
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
