Carolina vs Tampa Bay: NHL Match Prediction

Current Form

The Carolina Hurricanes reached the playoffs, finishing second in the Eastern Conference standings. Under head coach Rod Brind'Amour, the team emerged as a title favorite, easily defeating the Islanders 4-1 in the opening round. In the quarterfinals, many expected the Hurricanes to excel, but they faced a disappointing three-game losing streak that hindered their ability to compete for a spot in the semifinals, ultimately falling to the Rangers 4-2 in the series. Notably, prior to the season, the roster saw the departures of goaltender Antti Raanta, defenseman Tony DeAngelo, and forwards Evgeny Kuznetsov and Jake Guentzel.

This fall, the Raleigh-based club played six preseason games. The "Red and Black" secured victories over Tampa Bay (2-1 and 2-1, OT) and exchanged wins with Nashville (5-3 and 4-6) and Florida (8-2 and 4-5, OT). The Hurricanes' core players dominated both matches, showcasing solid defensive skills.

Injuries and Suspensions

Brendan Lemieux and Jesper Fast will miss the matchup against Tampa Bay due to injuries.

Interesting Betting Trends

• The Hurricanes averaged only 25 shots per game during the preseason

Despite the low shot count, the Hurricanes were effective in front of the net, converting 16.1% of their shots into goals.

• The Hurricanes won 53.4% of faceoffs this fall

The hosts consistently aimed to win every aspect of the game, even in non-crucial matchups.

Current Form

John Cooper's team displayed inconsistency throughout the last regular season, finishing in sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Tampa Bay faced Florida in the first round and struggled to put up a fight against the future champion, losing the series 1-4. During the offseason, the team made significant changes. Notably, long-time captain Steven Stamkos departed, along with defensemen Mikhail Sergachev and Zach Bogosian. In their place, Jake Guentzel, Cam Atkinson, and Ryan McDonagh joined the roster.

In preparation for the season, the Lightning faced Florida three times, recording scores of 8-7, 3-1, and 1-2 in overtime. They lost to Carolina twice, both times 1-2 in regulation and overtime, and suffered a heavy defeat against Nashville in Tennessee, ending 0-6. The Lightning's offense surprisingly underperformed, managing to score more than two goals in only two out of six games.

Disqualifications and Injuries

Mark Essimont will not be available to help his team in Raleigh.

Interesting Betting Trends

• Tampa Bay averaged only 2.33 goals per game during September and October

The Lightning struggled offensively prior to the season, but improvements are expected during the regular play.

• The Lightning blocked an average of just eight shots per game

The visitors were cautious with blocking in preseason matches, prioritizing injury prevention.