The second-round playoff clash in the Stanley Cup between the Florida Panthers and the Toronto Maple Leafs will take place on May 17 at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise. The series score is 3-2 in favor of Florida. Florida vs. Toronto: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Florida Panthers
Paul Maurice's team is on the brink of reaching the semifinals, taking the lead in the current series for the first time (6-1). Florida matched the opponent in shots, with their most productive period being the second, scoring three times. In the current playoffs, the club ranks second in goals scored, hitting the opponent's net 39 times, with only Edmonton scoring more in this Stanley Cup run. Notably, the team also boasts one of the best penalty-killing records (88.9%).
- Florida has won in regulation time in 5 of their last 6 home NHL meetings.
- The club has not scored more than three goals in regulation time in 8 of their last 11 home league games.
- The team has conceded no more than two goals in regulation time in 5 of their last 8 home NHL games.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Craig Berube's charges suffered their third consecutive defeat in the series, losing the previous match. The team's only goal came a minute before the end of the game, scored by Nicholas Robertson on a power play. In this Stanley Cup campaign, Toronto is among the top teams in goals conceded, with 36 goals against. However, they are also in the top five for penalty killing (78.8%).
- Toronto has lost 3 of their last 4 away NHL games (2 in OT).
- The club has scored at least three goals in regulation time in 6 of their last 8 away league games.
- At least six goals have been scored in regulation time in 5 of Toronto's last 6 NHL matches.
Florida vs. Toronto: Match Prediction
I see no chance for Toronto in the upcoming match. Craig Berube's team has lost three games in a row and is currently outmatched by the opponent in psychology, movement, and character, with no leaders in sight. Florida managed to regroup after two initial series losses, and it seems unlikely that anything will stop them from reaching the semifinals, especially on home ice.
Paul Maurice's team has three consecutive home wins in the NHL (1 in OT). Meanwhile, Toronto has lost 3 of their last 4 away league games (2 in OT). Additionally, as hosts, Florida has defeated their opponent in 6 of their last 7 NHL meetings (1 in OT).
I believe the best Toronto can hope for, given the lack of room for error, is overtime, but in my opinion, Florida should settle all questions. Prediction: Florida Panthers to win the match
