Panthers vs Lightning Predictions

**SBR Andy** · 04-22-25, 12:38 PM

Panthers vs Lightning Game 1 predictions from SBR's Gary Pearson:

Lightning Moneyline (-115 BetMGM)

"The Lightning enter the playoffs in markedly better form than their Sunshine State adversaries. While confidence won't be an issue for the defending Cup champions, the Panthers stumbled into the postseason and should struggle to overcome a healthy, in-form Lightning team.

The Panthers were tied for the second-worst road record (3-8-1) and scored the fewest goals per game (1.83) in enemy rinks since the 4 Nations break.

Hamstrung by the loss of Matthew Tkachuk and Aaron Ekblad, the Cats were a tamer, more listless version of their former selves. While Tkachuk's presence in Game 1 will be a game-time decision, Ekblad will not feature until Game 3.

Even if Tkachuk plays, I can't see him being at his sharpest after missing two months of action, particularly against a scorching-hot Lightning outfit.

Since the 4 Nations break, the Lightning had the third-best home record (11-1-2). I have no doubt the Panthers will improve as the series transpires, but the Lightning should have the upper hand in the opener."

Jake Guentzel Over 0.5 points (-145 bet365)

"Due to the short -145 odds, Guentzel to notch at least a point is a three-star play. While the profit on a $10 bet will be just $6.90, Guentzel tallied a point in seven straight against the Panthers. He notched a point in eight of the final 13 regular-season games and posted a point in four of his final six playoff games with the Carolina Hurricanes last season."

Yanni Gourde Over 1.5 shots (-110 bet365)

"Gourde finished the season with at least two shots in seven of the final nine games. Though it was two seasons ago, Gourde was productive the last time he was in the playoffs, with five Overs in his previous six appearances. He's built for the playoffs, and I expect him to raise his level for Tuesday's opener."

Sam Bennett Over 0.5 points (+110 DraftKings)

"Bennett was one of the Panthers' most influential players in their Cup-winning run. He had 14 points in 19 games and was an omnipresent threat. After missing a few games down the stretch due to an upper-body injury, Bennett is healthy and good to go. He'll be playing with Tkachuk if he returns to the lineup, with the pair finding superb chemistry last playoffs. Even if Tkachuk doesn't play, Bennett raises his level in the playoffs and should make his presence felt."

**SBR Andy** · 04-23-25, 08:17 AM

Florida dominates Game 1 by a score of 6-2.

Updated series odds via DraftKings: Panthers -210 / Lightning +180