8:07 pm
May 8

Hurricanes @ Predators

Who will WIN this matchup?

Carolina Hurricanes (36-10-8)

@ Nashville Predators (29-23-2)

 

Starting Goalies:

Alex Nedeljkovic (CAR): Confirmed

Juuse Saros (NSH): Confirmed

 

Current odds:

Carolina Hurricanes: (-125)

Nashville Predators: (+105)

 

• The Carolina Hurricanes are looking to fine-tune for the playoffs in two games against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are looking to land in the playoffs — and perhaps tune up for a first-round meeting with the Hurricanes. The teams will play Saturday night and Monday night in Nashville to close the regular season.

• The Hurricanes (36-10-8, 80 points) own a 13-game points streak, tying a franchise record. But they weren’t pleased with their 2-1 overtime loss Thursday night to the Chicago Blackhawks in the home finale. Carolina, in first place in the Central, is aiming to seal the top seed in the division. Only the Tampa Bay Lightning can catch the Hurricanes.

• The Predators (29-23-2, 60 points) hold a four-point edge on fifth-place Dallas for the division’s final playoff spot, although the Stars have three remaining games.

• Nashville has won two of its past four games, but both victories required overtime. Based on previous results this season, advancing to the postseason might not come easily for Nashville. The Hurricanes are 6-0-0 against the Predators, with five of those results determined in regulation.

• Nashville forward Colton Sissons said the Hurricanes “have our number this year, but I have full faith we can do it.” Carolina can clinch the top seed with another victory or various other combinations.

• Brind’Amour said Mrazek was the best player on the ice for the Hurricanes on Thursday night. Despite the final result, Carolina collected nine of a possible 10 points in the five-game homestand.

• The Hurricanes could be fueled by what they considered an unacceptable outing in their most recent game. Hurricanes center Martin Necas said the team didn’t give Mrazek enough help. A quick upgrade is in order, he said. “There is no chance we can play like that in the playoffs,” Necas said. “We want to give it 100 percent.”

4/10
Confidence
StreakSmarter Pick
Carolina Hurricanes
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