Florida (3-3) at Toronto (3-3)
- When: May 18 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON, CAN
- TV: TNT
Panthers vs. Maple Leafs – Game 7 Preview and Prediction
Moneyline: Florida -122 | Total: 5.0
Florida Panthers Overview
The Florida Panthers find themselves in familiar territory as they gear up for yet another Game 7, a situation they’ve thrived in over the years. Historically, Florida has excelled in these high-pressure scenarios, holding a 3-1 record in Game 7s, including two on the road. Last season, they clinched their first-ever Stanley Cup by winning a Game 7 at home against the Edmonton Oilers. The Panthers thrive under this kind of tension, and with 18 players on their roster who have experienced the intensity of a Game 7, they have no shortage of experience.
Forward Sam Reinhart, who netted a game-winner in a crucial Game 7 last season, believes the team’s collective experience is a key advantage. “You know what you’re going to get from the guy next to you, and that’s his best at a time like this,” Reinhart stated confidently. Adding to their experience, veteran Brad Marchand will be making his 13th career Game 7 appearance, his fifth against the Maple Leafs. He’s 4-0 against Toronto in these matchups—all while wearing a Boston Bruins sweater.
Florida’s defense, led by Aaron Ekblad, knows exactly how to handle the pressure. “It’s freeing having been in this situation and knowing how to handle it,” Ekblad explained. The Panthers will look to draw on their experience to punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Final.
Toronto Maple LeafsOverview
The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are desperate to shake off their Game 7 demons. Toronto has lost six straight Game 7s, including five with their core of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly. Their last Game 7 victory came all the way back in 2004 against the Ottawa Senators.
However, Toronto managed to stave off elimination with a clutch 2-0 win in Game 6. Matthews finally broke through with his first goal of the series, and Max Pacioretty sealed it with a late tally. “Everyone will probably want to talk about the goal and the points, but at the end (Matthews and Marner) were making plays and winning puck battles to seal that win,” Pacioretty noted.
Despite the history of struggles, Toronto is 7-3 in Game 7s played on home ice. If they want to break the curse, they’ll need more of the same grit and discipline they showed in Game 6.
Prediction:
The Panthers’ experience in these moments, combined with Toronto’s struggles in Game 7s, gives the edge to Florida. Look for the Panthers to lean on their veterans and strong defense to grind out a tough win and secure a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.
Final Score Prediction: Florida 4, Toronto 2
Best Bet: Florida ML (-122)
Total: Over 5.0 (-130)
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
