Florida Panthers - Boston Bruins predictions and free betting tips [08/05/2024]

The Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins are set to contest the second match of the NHL Eastern Conference's second round series.

Florida Panthers

The Florida Panthers are struggling in the current playoffs following a successful first round, where the team scored an average of 4 goals per game and conceded just 2.8. In their first match against Boston, their defence significantly weakened, conceding 5 goals in the last two periods (a 1:5 defeat). In the last game against Boston Bruins, the Panthers' defence was unable to withstand the opponent's onslaught, conceding 3 goals in the second period and 2 in the third. Goalkeeper Sergei Bobrovsky, who deflected 24 of 28 throws, was unable to become a reliable support for the team.

In the attack, Matthew Tkachuk stands out among the Panthers' players, scoring 4 goals and making 6 productive assists in the postseason, including extending his 6 game scoring streak. Brandon Montour and Niko Mikkola led the defence, but failed to protect the goal from the opponent, giving the Bruins numerous opportunities to throw at the goal. Sergei Bobrovsky, despite his 35 years and experience, is facing difficulties this season, but expectations remain high. The upcoming games will be decisive for the goalkeeper and the entire team to demonstrate their potential to redeem themselves in the series.

Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins are showing impressive results on the road. They started the playoffs with a 5:1 victory over the Florida Panthers shortly after triumphing in the seventh game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. With only one day rest between games, the Bruins showed high productivity, scoring 5 goals against Florida away in the first game. In the second period of this game, the team scored three goals, which was key to victory. Goalkeeper Jeremy Swayman deflected 38 of 39 throws, confirming his reputation as a reliable goalkeeper. His playoff stats are impressive: 5 wins and 2 defeats with a save percentage of 95.5% and a GAA of 1.42.

The Bruins' offence, which ranked 12th in the regular season, and their defence, which ranked 6th, fully demonstrated their abilities. The defenders also made a significant contribution to the team's success. Brandon Carlo and Mason LoRey not only provided reliable defence, but also actively participated in attacking actions. Carlo scored one goal and assisted on a goal to David Pastrnak, who executed it in overtime, securing a 2:1 victory over the Maple Leafs in the first round. LoRey also scored a goal and an assist.

Match Prediction: Florida Panthers vs Boston Bruins

Florida must take the second home match — travelling to Boston 2-0 down in the series is a clear sign of defeat. In the first match, despite outshooting their opponents, the Panthers failed to capitalise on their chances. Bobrovsky is more than capable of reverting to his usual quality of play and single-handedly nullifying the threat posed by Marchand and his team. I'm betting on Florida.