NHL Playoffs Picks & Predictions: Monday (Panthers vs. Maple Leafs)
We have just one game on the schedule tonight, and it’s the series’ first game. The Maple Leafs have not made it to the Eastern Conference Finals since 2002, and they need to get through the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers to get there this season.
We'll break the game down and give you our best NHL bet.
Panthers vs. Maple Leafs NHL Playoffs Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Florida Panthers (-125) at Toronto Maple Leafs (+105) | O/U 5.5 (-105/-115)
The Panthers did easy work of the Lightning by taking care of them in five games. They dominated with scoring opportunities, with a 56.75% expected goal rate. They were at a 49% Corsi rate, which means while the quality of shots was there, the volume wasn't. Their offensive depth was prevalent throughout this series, with six players scoring at least five points. Matthew Tkachuk made his return after missing two months with an injury and made a huge impact with five points (three goals, two assists). He is important because he plays a point guard role and handles the puck when he's on the ice, and the offense moves through him.
Their defense was great throughout that series. They allowed 22.4 shots on goal per game and 2.8 high-danger shots. They played in the middle of the ice and were physical, and Tampa Bay could not get scoring opportunities.
The Maple Leafs almost let it happen again. They started their first-round series with three straight wins, and then allowed the Senators to gain momentum and win a couple of games.
They were pretty much even with the Senators with a 49.47% expected goal share. However, the Senators were better at scoring chances throughout the series, but they just weren't going through the net.
Toronto goalie Anthony Stolarz was the difference-maker. He allowed just 2.21 goals and a .901 save percentage. Stolarz didn't have much success against the Panthers, going 1-2-0 with 3.06 goals allowed per game.
This could be a long series due to how well these teams match up. The defense is what could set the tone for this series, and we should see a few low-scoring games, including the first one.
Pick: Under 5.5 Goals (-115)