Panthers vs Bruins – Odds for Tonight’s NHL Playoff Game

Tonight, the NHL playoffs see the Boston Bruins hosting the Florida Panthers in Game 3 of the second-round series at their home rink.

This pivotal matchup comes after each team secured a commanding win in Florida, with the series shifting to Boston tied at one game apiece.

Game Details:

• Teams: Florida Panthers vs. Boston Bruins
• Date: Friday Evening
• Venue: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts
• Odds via BetOnline: Florida Panthers -123; Boston Bruins +110

Florida kicked off the series with fluctuating performances, dominating Game 2 after a heavy loss in Game 1. Despite the lopsided scores, the real competition was much closer until the final periods of each game.

Betting Analysis

Given their recent home performance and the historical data backing them, the Bruins are predicted to take advantage of their home ice. Here are the opening odds and considerations for tonight’s game:

• Puck Line: Florida -1.5 (+215) | Boston +1.5 (-255)
• Moneyline: Florida -123 | Boston +109
• Over/Under: Over 5.5 (+102) | Under 5.5 (-118)

View Current Odds here.

Boston’s defense, particularly its blue-liners, have been exceptional, boasting a lower expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60) at 5-on-5 compared to Florida. This strong defensive play is crucial as it balances Florida’s deeper offensive lineup.

Defeating the Panthers will be a formidable challenge. They boast a roster brimming with top-tier talent, depth, and a goaltender who’s a finalist for the Vezina Trophy. Last year, this team unexpectedly surged to the Stanley Cup Final and is now fiercely motivated to return and claim victory.

However, it would be unwise to underestimate the Bruins in this series. Having already surpassed expectations by advancing past the first round, this season is deemed successful, especially considering the significant roster overhaul last summer that was viewed as a transitional phase.

While the Bruins will undoubtedly face some pressure, as is typical in the playoffs, they enter the series against the Panthers as distinct underdogs—a role that could well become a source of inspiration for them.

Goaltending and Matchup:

The goaltending scenario for Boston is interesting, with either Jeremy Swayman or Linus Ullmark capable of starting. The decision is a toss-up, but both goaltenders are trusted equally to perform against Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky. “It remains to be seen which goaltender Boston will go with in Game 3, but I trust either guy just the same.”

Key Player to Watch:

Charlie Coyle stands out as a significant player for Boston tonight. Scoring in Game 2, Coyle has a history of success against Florida, finding the back of the net in eight of his past 20 games against them. Alongside Brad Marchand and Jake DeBrusk, Coyle’s chances of scoring are enhanced due to their ability to set up quality opportunities.

Betting Picks:

With the series returning to Boston, the odds are slightly in favor of Florida, but Boston at +110 presents valuable betting potential.

Over/Under Analysis:

The total remains set at 5.5, reflecting the scoring patterns from the first two games. While the trend might lean towards the over, the presence of elite goaltenders could limit the scoreline, making the under a reasonable bet as well.