The Hurricanes are struggling to score, but Cam Ward in net always gives them a chance. The Panthers are playing their first game since starting the year in Finland. Play Under here.
The Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes went Under in four of their last five head-to-head meetings last season with none of the Unders exceeding five total goals scored, and we look for a carbon copy tonight.
The Hurricanes struggled offensively down the stretch last season, and unfortunately those struggles have carried over into this season, as they have scored a grand total of just four goals in three games while failing to score more than two goals in any game.
That said, goaltender Cam Ward carried this team to the playoffs last season, and was almost single-handedly responsible for Carolina advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, upsetting the New Jersey Devils and the top-seeded Boston Bruins along the way. The combination of Ward in net and a punchless offense makes the Canes prime Under candidates virtually every game.
As for the Panthers, it would be understandable if they are a bit lethargic here, as this is their first game stateside after splitting their first two games with the Chicago Blackhawks in Helsinki, Finland. They were shut out 4-0 in the last game, managing a modest 23 shots on goal vs. a Chicago team not renowned for its defense.
We look for the Panthers to struggle again vs. a stiffer Carolina unit, which should result in yet another Under in this series.
LT Profits (Same side as Doc NHL) 10-9-09
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