NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers Picks and Predictions – December 30, 2025
The Montreal Canadiens head to Sunrise, FL to take on the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on Tuesday night. Puck drops at 7:00 PM ET, with Florida priced as a -143 home favorite. The Panthers sit at 22-12-2, pushing for top-three security in the Atlantic Division, while Montreal lags behind at 15-18-4 and continues to show flashes of fight but not enough consistency.
Florida’s had the Habs’ number lately, winning six of the last seven head-to-head. With the total set at 6.0 and both teams capable of trading goals in transition, this one has multiple angles to consider — especially if you’re looking at puck line or Over alternatives.
Access Thousands of Data-Driven Plays
From the First Pitch to the Final Whistle
Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers Odds
These are the current odds for Tuesday night’s matchup. Always stay tuned to the latest NHL odds page as betting lines can shift ahead of puck drop.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal Canadiens | +120 | +1.5 (-212) | O 6.0 (-110) |
| Florida Panthers | -143 | -1.5 (+170) | U 6.0 (-110) |
Montreal Canadiens Betting Form
Montreal’s in a weird spot — not good enough to win consistently, but just scrappy enough to cover puck lines. They’ve covered +1.5 in five of their last six, despite going just 2-4 straight up. That makes them tricky to fade, especially as underdogs.
Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield continue to carry the offense, but depth scoring is an issue. The power play has cooled off, now ranked bottom-10 across December, and goaltending has been streaky. Sam Montembeault has shown flashes but also let in some soft goals under pressure.
They’ve struggled in transition against fast-paced teams — exactly what Florida excels at. Still, the Canadiens often keep it close, and they’ve been profitable as road underdogs against aggressive opponents. Get a closer look at the Montreal Canadiens stats and results, and always check the Montreal Canadiens injury report before locking in bets.
Florida Panthers Betting Form
Florida continues to thrive on defensive pressure and speed. They’ve won four of five and are 12-5-0 at home, where they push tempo and dominate puck possession. Matthew Tkachuk is heating up after a slow start, and Aleksander Barkov remains one of the best two-way centers in hockey.
The Panthers are top-five in expected goals, high-danger chances, and penalty kill. But they still get caught pressing at times, leading to quick counters — something Montreal can capitalize on. Sergei Bobrovsky has been solid but not elite, and if he starts, the Over stays in play.
Florida’s puck line hit rate isn’t great overall, but when they do win at home, it’s often by multiple goals. Check the Florida Panthers schedule and stats, and keep tabs on the Florida Panthers injury report for any late lineup changes.
Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers Matchup Breakdown
This is a stylistic mismatch. The Panthers thrive in transition and offensive-zone time, while Montreal defends in layers and hopes to counter off mistakes. That’s risky when Florida pushes pace the way they do.
A few notable angles:
- Florida ranks top 5 in xGF and shot attempts
- Montreal is bottom 10 in 5-on-5 possession metrics
- Canadiens are 5-1 ATS in their last six
- Florida has won 6 of 7 head-to-head
If the Panthers control neutral zone play, they’ll pile up zone time and shots. But if they get too aggressive, Montreal’s top line can burn them. For deeper breakdowns on how team pace affects totals and spreads, see this concise guide to hockey betting.
Discover Where the Sharps Are Betting
Real Trends, Real Edges, Real Wins
Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers Predictions and Best Bets
Florida should win this game. But should you lay -143 or chase the puck line? That’s less clear. Montreal has made a habit of keeping things tight, and Florida doesn’t consistently close games by margin.
The Over 6.0 feels like the sharper play. Montreal gives up volume, Florida creates chances, and both teams can exploit mistakes. If Montembeault or a backup gets the start, that lean strengthens.
Puck line bettors should be cautious. Florida may cover if they dominate early, but there’s little value in laying -1.5 unless the price improves.
Best Bet: Over 6.0 (-110)
NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
For more NHL betting insight, ScoresAndStats delivers free NHL picks daily — covering sides, totals, and props across every game.
Track the top sports handicappers, see who’s winning long-term on the handicapper leaderboard, or invest in buy expert picks when you want premium-level confidence.
To sharpen your angles and avoid common traps, check out this must-read sports betting strategy guide.
