The NHL Eastern Conference Final reaches a pivotal moment as the Florida Panthers prepare to close out their series against the Carolina Hurricanes. With Game 4 set in Sunrise, Florida, the Panthers hold a commanding 3-0 series lead and are on the verge of reaching the Stanley Cup Final for the third consecutive year. It’s been a dominant display of power, poise, and production from Florida, who erupted for five third-period goals in their emphatic 6-2 victory in Game 3.
For Carolina, the pressure couldn’t be higher. The Hurricanes are now fighting to keep their season alive and avoid a sweep for the second time in three years—ironically, again at the hands of Florida. Coach Rod Brind’Amour’s squad has been outmatched, both physically and mentally, and will need an inspired performance to prevent a repeat of 2023’s Eastern Conference heartbreak. With stars underperforming and injuries mounting, Carolina must dig deep to force a Game 5.
Let’s break down this massive Game 4 matchup in detail.
Carolina Hurricanes at Florida Panthers
Match Info
- Stanley Cup Playoffs – Eastern Conference Final, Game 4
- Monday 26 May 2025 – 20:00 EST / 01:00 BST (Tuesday)
- Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise, Florida, USA
Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina’s post-season campaign has taken a sharp downward turn. Their Game 3 collapse was emblematic of deeper issues — a lack of cohesion, execution, and discipline. Their blue line is battered, with Jalen Chatfield and Sean Walker still doubtful, which has forced younger, less experienced players into high-stakes situations. While players like Alexander Nikishin and Scott Morrow have shown heart, it’s the lack of impact from seasoned stars that’s most troubling.
Sebastian Aho and Taylor Hall were both virtually invisible in Game 3, registering just four shots between them and combining for a minus-7 rating. The Hurricanes’ powerplay remains ineffective, and their neutral zone transitions have been easily dismantled by Florida’s aggressive forecheck. If Carolina is to mount a miraculous comeback, they’ll need to rediscover their identity — fast.
Florida Panthers
Florida are peaking at just the right time. The defending champions have scored five or more goals in four straight games, showcasing their depth, adaptability, and firepower. Aleksander Barkov has emerged as the leader of this charge, not only producing points but driving possession and setting the tone for both ends of the ice. His four-game point streak includes six goals and nine assists in 15 postseason games.
Even with key forward Sam Reinhart sidelined, the Panthers have not missed a beat. Jesper Boqvist stepped up with a goal and two assists in Game 3, while defenceman Niko Mikkola added two goals to highlight Florida’s ability to generate offence from all areas of the ice. This team is rolling, and they’re one game away from a third straight trip to the Stanley Cup Final.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Florida Panthers to win
With the Panthers firing on all cylinders and Carolina struggling to find answers, the edge heavily favours Florida. They’ve shown the ability to exploit Carolina’s defensive gaps, overwhelm with pressure, and maintain composure in key moments. At home, with the sweep in sight, expect Florida to close the door emphatically.
America Bet Score Prediction
Carolina Hurricanes 2 – 5 Florida Panthers
The Panthers’ offence is simply too relentless right now. Given Carolina’s defensive absences and lack of spark from their marquee players, another high-scoring effort from Florida is on the cards. Expect a quick start, a strong finish, and another dominant performance.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Florida Panthers to win (Moneyline)
- Over 5.5 total goals
- Florida Panthers -1.5 (Puck Line)
- Aleksander Barkov to score anytime
- Jesper Boqvist to record 1+ point
- Niko Mikkola to record 1+ point
- First period: Florida Panthers to win
- Carolina Hurricanes under 2.5 goals
- Both teams to score in the first period – Yes
- Florida Panthers to score the last goal
