Florida Panthers vs Carolina Hurricanes Picks and Predictions May 24th 2025

Hurricanes Aim to Regain Identity in Game 3 Against Panthers

The Carolina Hurricanes are once again staring down a 2-0 deficit in the Eastern Conference Finals — a spot they’ve become all too familiar with. But as the series shifts to Sunrise, Florida for Game 3 on Saturday, Carolina will be determined to rewrite the narrative and avoid the same fate as their previous two trips: getting swept out of contention.

Shot Volume Disappears in Game 2 Blowout

Known for overwhelming opponents with high shot volume and relentless pressure, the Hurricanes were a shell of themselves in a 5-0 loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 2. Through two periods, Carolina had managed only seven shots on goal and 28 total attempts — a stunning drop-off from a team that averaged 31.7 shots per game during the regular season.

Serious About Winning? Follow The Best Handicappers Today!

“That’s just not our game. That’s just not how we play.”
— Taylor Hall, Carolina Hurricanes

Fans at PNC Arena voiced their frustration, chanting “Shoot the puck” late in the second period. But the disconnect ran deeper than just a lack of shots — Carolina’s identity as a high-motor, puck-dominant squad was nowhere to be seen.

Even in Game 1, where they outshot Florida 33-20, the Hurricanes didn’t find their second goal until the final minutes of a 5-2 loss.

“It’s not easy. We have a long road ahead of us, but there’s no quit in this team.”
— Jordan Staal, Carolina Hurricanes Captain

Carolina ranked first in total shot attempts during the regular season, and if they’re going to claw back into this series, they’ll need to reestablish that strength in a hurry.

Panthers Lean on Experience and Tkachuk’s Leadership

The Panthers, meanwhile, look poised and confident. They’ve now beaten Carolina in six straight playoff games dating back to 2023, when they swept the Hurricanes en route to a Stanley Cup Final appearance. This year’s squad — the defending Stanley Cup champions — is showing the same hunger and discipline.

“We have that in mind, and we know what it takes.”
— Anton Lundell, Florida Panthers

Unlock Access to NHL Winner’s Circle

Start your Get picks and perks.journey.

Join Now!

Want The Inside Scoop? It’s All On Gambling News.

Florida has been buoyed by the all-around brilliance of Matthew Tkachuk, who continues to deliver in big moments. With 12 points in 14 postseason games, Tkachuk has been a spark plug for a team loaded with playoff-tested depth.

“He always plays well. He’s one-of-a-kind … He does it all for us.”
— Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers Captain

The Panthers could be without winger Sam Reinhart in Game 3 after he suffered a lower-body injury following a hit from Sebastian Aho. Coach Paul Maurice said an update would come Saturday.

Those following NHL playoff picks and predictions will be watching closely to see if Carolina can bounce back — or if Florida tightens its grip on the series with another commanding win.