Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. For this edition, we will look at the Carolina Hurricanes taking on the Florida Panthers. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
Carolina Hurricanes vs Florida Panthers
2024-25 Season Series: Hurricanes 0-3 Panthers
US TV: Scripps Florida; Fan Duel Sports South; ESPN+
Canada TV: TVA Sports
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
We open up NHL predictions with our featured game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers in a rematch of the Eastern Conference Final. Carolina is expected to start Pyotr Kochetkov in goal for this game. However, always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. The Canes are coming into this matchup on a five-game winning streak and winners of eight of their previous 10. Seth Jarvis leads Carolina in goals with 19.
Sergei Bobrovsky is the projected starter for the Florida, which is on its own good run of form. The Panthers are 6-3-1, and winners of their last three games. This also includes Florida getting wins in six of its last seven games. Brad Marchand is turning back the clock, as he’s got the team lead in goals (19), assists (18), and points (37).
Carolina has been playing well, but Florida has been a thorn in Carolina’s side.
Prediction: Panthers win 3-2.
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