Hurricanes vs. Panthers prediction and odds for Eastern Conference Finals Game 3

The Carolina Hurricanes were the betting favorites to win the Stanley Cup at the start of the Eastern Conference Final, but now, in a blink of an eye, they have to head to Florida for Game 3 while facing an 0-2 deficit.

The ‘Canes are now in danger of falling to the same fate as the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the playoffs. The only hope they have to avoid that is to win tonight’s Game 3 in Sunrise.

Can they win the game and get back in the series? Let’s find out what the oddsmakers think.

Hurricanes vs. Panthers odds, puck line, and total

Hurricanes vs. Panthers prediction and pick

I’ve been on the Hurricanes in both of the first two games, losing both bets in heartbreaking fashion in overtime. But, despite losing two straight, I’m not going to give up on my strategy.

Sure, the ‘Canes might be down 0-2, but the analytics show that they’ve been dominating the Panthers from a metrics perspective. For example, in “expected goals” the Hurricanes have the advantage, 3.54-2.23 per 60 minutes of play.

Unless something completely different happens in Game 3, it’s difficult for a team to win this many games in a row while getting outplayed by that much.

The Hurricanes are also average 2.08 more high-danger scoring chances per game while sporting a FENWICK% of 57.39%.

I’ll give the Panthers credit, they’ve been getting fantastic goaltending while taking advantage of their offensive opportunities, but I have enough evidence to keep backing the Hurricanes.

If I go down with the ship, so be it. Give me Carolina tonight.

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Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.