The second-round playoff clash in the Stanley Cup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers will take place on May 15 at Scotiabank Arena. The series is tied at 2-2. Toronto vs. Florida: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Craig Berube's team suffered a 0-2 defeat in their last away game of the series. Notably, in their last five away playoff games, Toronto has only managed one win in regular time (3 draws, 1 loss). In this playoff run, the club has scored a total of 32 goals, making it one of the league's best, and it is also among the leaders in goals conceded (19).
- Toronto has not scored more than three goals in regular time in 7 of their last 10 NHL home games.
- The club has won 11 of their last 12 league matches (3 in OT).
- At least six goals have been scored in regular time in 4 of Toronto's last 5 NHL games.
Florida Panthers
Paul Maurice's side leveled the series by securing their third consecutive home win (1 in OT). The team opened the scoring in the first period by capitalizing on a power play and netted the second goal in the final third. In this Stanley Cup run, the club is among the leaders in goals scored (33) and is also one of the best in penalty killing (87.9%).
- Florida has lost 8 of their last 11 NHL away games (1 in OT).
- The team has not scored more than three goals in regular time in 13 of their last 16 league away games.
- At least six goals have been scored over three periods in 6 of Florida's last 7 NHL games.
Toronto vs. Florida: Match Prediction
The current series has highlighted the importance of experience in cup matches. When Toronto had the chance to extend their lead in the series, they appeared less confident, effectively allowing their opponent to get back into the series. Florida capitalized on this, made adjustments, and now has a psychological edge. I believe Paul Maurice's team has a strong chance to take the lead in the series for the first time, with Sergei Bobrovsky and other key players in good form. It's quite likely they will upset their opponent for the third consecutive time.
Florida has not lost in regular time in 7 of their last 11 NHL meetings at Toronto's venue (3 wins, 4 draws). Meanwhile, the opponent hasn't won in 60 minutes in 6 of their last 9 playoff games (4 draws, 2 losses). I think the two recent victories will positively impact Paul Maurice's team, so I will back the visitors. My prediction: Florida Panthers with a handicap (0)
