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Carolina Hurricanes vs Anaheim Ducks Game Preview
The Carolina Hurricanes continue their West Coast road trip when they visit the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Both teams are off to promising starts in the new NHL season, setting the stage for an early measuring-stick matchup.
Carolina remains unbeaten at 3–0–0, while Anaheim has responded well after a season-opening loss, winning two straight, including a comeback thriller over Pittsburgh. Puck drop is set for 10:00 PM ET on ESPN+.
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Line Movement and Odds
The Hurricanes opened as road favorites at −175, with slight public action nudging the line to −180. The Ducks, winners of two straight, enter as home underdogs looking to stay hot before a five-game road swing.
- Moneyline: Hurricanes −180 / Ducks +151
- Puck Line: Hurricanes −1.5 (+138) / Ducks +1.5 (−170)
- Total: Over/Under 6.0 (Over −116 / Under −105)
Stay updated with real-time movement on the NHL odds page.
Matchup Breakdown
The Carolina Hurricanes have started their season with balance and depth on full display. Under Rod Brind’Amour, Carolina ranks among the early defensive leaders, allowing only seven goals through three games. Their 5-1 win over San Jose showcased dominance — limiting the Sharks to just 17 shots, with none registered in the third period.
Eight Hurricanes players, including Sebastian Aho, Shayne Gostisbehere, and Seth Jarvis, have opened the season on three-game point streaks. That collective production mirrors the team’s signature structure-first, ego-free system. Frederik Andersen (2–0–0, .928 SV%) is expected back in goal after Brandon Bussi’s debut in San Jose.
Defensively, Carolina remains without Jaccob Slavin (lower body), though Mike Reilly filled in admirably on Tuesday. The Hurricanes’ special teams have been sharp, converting key chances while holding opponents to 0-for-9 on the power play in their last two games.
The Anaheim Ducks (2–1–0) enter this matchup fresh off a statement win, erasing a two-goal deficit to beat the Penguins 4-3. Chris Kreider was the difference-maker, scoring twice on the power play — including the game-winner late in the third. Kreider now leads the team with four goals, three coming with the man advantage.
Coach Joel Quenneville has emphasized composure and physical play, and it’s paying off: Anaheim has 73 hits and 35 blocks through three games. With John Gibson likely back in net, the Ducks will try to slow Carolina’s fast-paced attack and capitalize on special teams.
Injuries and Conditions
Carolina Hurricanes
- Jaccob Slavin (D) — Questionable (lower body)
- Pyotr Kochetkov (G) — Out (undisclosed)
Anaheim Ducks
- Jansen Harkins (C) — Out (upper body)
- Ryan Strome (C) — Out (upper body)
Carolina’s blue-line depth continues to be tested without Slavin, but Anaheim’s injuries at center also limit their playmaking depth.
Betting Trends
- Carolina is 3-0 SU this season (100%).
- Anaheim is 2-1 SU, including 1-0 at home.
- Carolina is 2-0 ATS as a favorite.
- Anaheim is 1-1 ATS overall.
- Both teams have split totals evenly (1-1 O/U in last two).
- Carolina has won 5 straight road games dating back to 2024–25.
Best Bets and Prediction
The Hurricanes have shown why they’re perennial contenders — fast, deep, and disciplined. Anaheim’s power play has been sharp early, but Carolina’s elite penalty kill and puck-control game should dictate tempo. Expect a competitive game, but Carolina’s structure and goaltending depth make the difference late.
- Moneyline Lean: Hurricanes −180
- Puck Line Lean: Hurricanes −1.5 (+138)
- Total Lean: Over 6.0 (−116)
- Projected Score: Hurricanes 4 – Ducks 2
Carolina’s balanced scoring and relentless forecheck should overwhelm Anaheim’s defense, though the Ducks’ special teams could keep it interesting.
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Handicappers and Service Plays
Consensus NHL handicappers lean toward Carolina ML and Over 6.0, citing superior depth, defensive consistency, and road form. Sharps may find early value on Anaheim +1.5, given the Ducks’ home momentum and recent power-play success.
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