Carolina (24-14-2) at Tampa Bay (20-15-2)
- When: Jan 7 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Amalie Arena, Tampa, FL, USA
- TV: FDSSUN
Game Preview
The Tampa Bay Lightning return home after a grueling California road trip, hoping to reignite their high-powered offense as they host the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday night. Tampa Bay, a moneyline underdog at -103 with a total set at 6.0 goals, is looking to snap a four-game losing streak—their longest of the season.
During their road trip, the Lightning managed just three goals across three games, falling to San Jose, Los Angeles, and Anaheim. Head coach Jon Cooper didn’t hide his frustration after the team’s 4-1 loss to the Ducks, admitting, “It’s tough to win when you’re not scoring.” Tampa Bay entered the trip averaging 3.94 goals per game—leading the NHL—but they’ve since fallen to 3.70.
Key contributors like Anthony Cirelli (15 goals), Victor Hedman, and Jake Guentzel need to step up after a disappointing West Coast swing. Nikita Kucherov remains the Lightning’s offensive leader with 55 points, including a hat trick in Tampa Bay’s 4-1 season-opening win over Carolina.
The Hurricanes, meanwhile, are riding some momentum, earning points in four of their last five games (3-1-1). Sebastian Aho, fresh off reaching 600 career points, has been instrumental in Carolina’s recent surge. He scored the overtime winner in their 4-3 victory against Pittsburgh, bringing his season total to 13 goals and adding to his five-point haul over the last five games. Seth Jarvis also delivered a standout performance with two goals and an assist against the Penguins.
Carolina’s balanced attack is led by Martin Necas, who has 47 points, including 32 assists, while Jack Roslovic paces the team with 17 goals. Their offensive depth could pose problems for a Tampa Bay squad struggling to maintain its defensive structure.
Prediction: Despite Tampa Bay’s recent slump, returning home could provide a spark, especially with Kucherov leading the charge. However, the Hurricanes’ depth and form give them a solid chance to spoil the Lightning’s homecoming. The over on the total of 6.0 looks enticing with these offensive weapons on display. Lean toward Carolina to pull off a close win as a slight favorite.
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
