Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs Eastern Conference Final is set for Wednesday as the Carolina Hurricanes take on the Florida Panthers at PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC. Following a dramatic Game 4, where Carolina fought off elimination with a decisive 3-0 victory, the stage is set for an intense showdown. The Hurricanes' Frederik Andersen delivered an impressive 20-save shutout, while Florida enters as a slight favorite at -116 on the money line.

With the over/under set at 5.5 goals, the Panthers are favored by 1.5 goals (+208) on the puck line, indicating a competitive matchup ahead. SportsLine's projection model has shown strong results, simulating every NHL game 10,000 times with a positive return for bettors following its picks. Fans seeking player props can keep an eye on key performances from players like Aaron Ekblad and Sebastian Aho, who both look to impact the game significantly.

The Florida Panthers faced a shocking challenge as the Carolina Hurricanes secured a 3-0 victory in Game 4, keeping their hopes alive in this tense playoff series. The Panthers, who were heavily favored to win the series with odds at -1600, saw a dramatic shift after the Hurricanes' win, altering the series narrative and raising their odds to +750.

With Game 5 approaching, anticipation builds around whether the Panthers can close out the series or if the Hurricanes will rally once again. Key players like Sergei Bobrovsky are under scrutiny, with odds for the Conn Smythe showing him as the frontrunner at +200, emphasizing his pivotal role in the Panthers’ potential postseason success.

In a pivotal Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals, the Carolina Hurricanes emerged victorious against the Florida Panthers, shutting them out 3-0 and staving off elimination. Frederik Andersen's return to the net was instrumental, as he recorded his fifth career playoff shutout, stopping 20 shots. Logan Stankoven netted the critical first goal, while Sebastian Aho and Jordan Staal added empty-net goals to seal the win. This marked the Hurricanes' first East finals victory since 2006, breaking a 15-game losing streak in the conference finals. They managed to limit Florida's offensive opportunities, allowing just 12 shots through two periods. Coach Rod Brind'Amour praised his team's defensive effort, emphasizing the need for consistent performance to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Carolina Hurricanes showcased resilience in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals, defeating the Florida Panthers 3-0 and forcing a Game 5. The Hurricanes, who faced elimination, established a solid defensive game that had been lacking in previous contests, shutting out the Panthers for two periods and limiting their shots on goal.

Logan Stankoven scored the winning goal, marking a significant achievement in his rookie season, while Frederik Andersen delivered an impressive shutout. The Panthers, despite entering with a strong playoff record, struggled with discipline, allowing too many power plays and failing to capitalize on their chances.

Frederik Andersen showcased his playoff prowess with a stellar performance, recording his fifth career shutout as the Carolina Hurricanes triumphed over the Florida Panthers 3-0 in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals. Logan Stankoven scored the decisive goal, marking the first lead for Carolina in the series. With empty-net goals from Sebastian Aho and Jordan Staal, the Hurricanes snapped a 15-game losing streak in the East finals, offering a glimmer of hope as they now trail the series 3-1.

The Hurricanes effectively neutralized the Panthers' offense, allowing only 12 shots in the first two periods, a testament to their defensive strategy. This victory not only lifted the team’s spirits but also marked a significant moment for a franchise that had not tasted success in the Eastern Conference finals for two decades. The next game holds critical importance as Carolina strives to keep their postseason dreams alive.