The first-round playoff clash in the Stanley Cup between the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning will take place on April 26 at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise. The series score is 2-0 in favor of Florida. Florida vs. Tampa Bay: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Florida Panthers
Paul Maurice's team strengthened their advantage in the series with a shutout win in the last away match, finishing 0-2. The visitors scored in the fifth minute and added an empty-net goal four seconds before the final buzzer. In this Stanley Cup edition, Florida ranks among the best in terms of goals conceded, having allowed just two goals in two games. Additionally, they are in the top three in power-play conversion (50%).
Notably, Florida's captain, Aleksander Barkov, was unable to finish the previous game, and his participation in the upcoming match is in question.
- Florida has not scored more than three goals in regulation time in 5 of their last 6 NHL home meetings.
- The team has won 10 of their last 12 home league games (1 in OT, 2 in shootouts).
- No more than six goals have been scored in regulation time in 10 of Florida's last 11 NHL home games.
Tampa Bay Lightning
John Cooper's team suffered their third consecutive league defeat, including regular season games. Currently, Tampa Bay ranks among the lowest in scoring in this playoff, having netted just two goals in two matches. They are also among the bottom three in power-play conversion (12.5%).
- Tampa Bay has lost 5 of their last 7 away games in the NHL (1 in shootouts).
- The team has not conceded more than two goals in regulation time in 4 of their last 5 away league games.
- No more than six goals have been scored in the full three periods in 9 of Tampa Bay's last 11 NHL games.
Florida vs. Tampa Bay: Match Prediction
John Cooper's team is starting to feel the pressure as they struggle to find a way past Sergei Bobrovsky, who appears more confident with each game. Florida is capitalizing on all opportunities, and after two games in the series, it's hard to see what Tampa Bay can do in this situation, especially as they find away games challenging.
Tampa Bay has lost 5 of their last 7 away games in the league (1 in shootouts). Florida, on the other hand, feels comfortable at home, winning 10 of their last 12 NHL games (1 in OT, 2 in shootouts). Moreover, they currently hold the psychological advantage. Additionally, Florida has not lost to the opponent in regulation time in 6 of their last 8 NHL meetings (4 wins, 2 draws).
Judging by the series' two games, it's hard to see how Florida would need to falter to allow the opponent any significant advantage. In my view, Paul Maurice's team should look even more convincing at home, so I don't believe they will lose in regulation time.
My prediction: Florida Panthers to win or draw
