Blues vs Panthers Betting Preview

St. Louis enters Saturday with overtime frustration reaching its peak. Their 2-1 loss to the Rangers marked their sixth overtime defeat of the season. They are 0-6 in overtime and 0-2 in shootouts. Their possession in three-on-three often looks strong, but their coverage breaks down in critical moments. Jim Montgomery pointed to blown assignments and lost net-front battles as the recurring issue.

Their scoring challenges also remain apparent. No Blues skater has reached double digits in goals. Robert Thomas leads the team in points and assists, but their finishing remains inconsistent. Jake Neighbours generates even-strength production, yet their lack of depth scoring places pressure on their defensive structure. Jordan Binnington owns a 3.41 goals-against average, the highest of his career. His form contrasts with his 2018-19 season, when he led the Blues to the Stanley Cup.

Florida arrives with momentum following a stunning comeback win over Carolina. The Panthers trailed 3-0 with under 10 minutes left before storming back to force overtime and win in a shootout. Brad Marchand sparked the surge with his 20th goal. Sam Reinhart added his 18th. Sam Bennett contributed his 12th. Their top scoring trio continues driving the offense.

Sergei Bobrovsky earned the win with 26 saves and improved to 15-8-1. Given the back-to-back schedule, Daniil Tarasov is likely to start Saturday. Florida’s balance, composure and big-game experience continue showing late in games. Their 7-1-0 stretch reflects improved pace and defensive support.

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Line Movement and Odds

Panthers -210, Blues +175
Total: 6.0 (over -112, under -108)

Florida’s surge and St. Louis’ late-game issues shape early pricing.

Check updated numbers on the NHL odds page.

Matchup Breakdown

St. Louis overview

St. Louis remains competitive through structure but struggles to finish games. Their even-strength scoring lacks punch. Their set plays need refinement. They rely on Thomas to drive entries and create from the half wall. Their power play depends heavily on his reads.

Their defensive challenges intensify in overtime. Missed assignments create high-danger chances. Their neutral-zone coverage leaves gaps against fast teams. They need cleaner rotations and quicker support around Binnington.

Their path involves slowing pace, winning board battles and generating interior shots. They must limit turnovers and avoid extended sequences in their own zone.

Florida overview

Florida’s comeback Friday showcased their resiliency and scoring depth. Their top line controls pace and drives volume. Marchand’s leadership remains central. Reinhart and Bennett complement him with finishing and pressure on the forecheck. Their transition remains crisp. Their neutral-zone support limits rush chances against.

Tarasov likely starts in goal. His numbers remain strong, and Florida’s defensive layers help limit dangerous looks. Their ability to push games late stems from experience. Their bench stays composed. Their scoring confidence builds through each line.

Florida needs continued discipline and strong shift-to-shift pace. Their ability to dominate zone time decides this matchup.

Injuries

Blues

(No injuries listed )

Full roster outlook on the St. Louis Blues page.

Panthers

(No injuries listed)

Team overview available on the Florida Panthers page.

Betting Trends

• Blues 0-8 in games decided after regulation
• Blues struggling to finish scoring chances
• Panthers 7-1-0 in last eight
• Panthers strong at home and trending over due to scoring surges
• St. Louis generating unders in tight games
• Florida controlling late-game momentum in recent stretch

Best Bets and Prediction

Florida holds decisive edges in scoring depth, structure and late-game confidence. St. Louis’ overtime issues highlight broader concerns with coverage and pace. The Panthers’ form and momentum remain strong entering this matchup.

Projected score: Panthers 4, Blues 2
Best Bet: Panthers -210
Total Lean: Over 6.0

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