The Eastern Conference NHL playoffs are heating up with a crucial Game 3 between the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes. After falling behind 2-0 in the series, the Hurricanes are back on home ice at PNC Arena in Raleigh, aiming for a comeback.
Game Details:
- Event: NHL Playoffs – Second Round – Game 3
- Teams: New York Rangers vs. Carolina Hurricanes
- Date: Thursday, May 9, 2024
- Location: PNC Arena, Raleigh, North Carolina
- Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
- How to Watch: TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS
Series So Far
The Rangers took an early series lead with two close victories, including a dramatic double-overtime win in Game 2. Historically, these teams have a competitive playoff history, each having playoff wins against the other in recent years. The Rangers topped the regular season with the best record in the Eastern Conference and the NHL, showcasing their formidable strength.
Odds for Game 3
- Puck Line: New York Rangers +1.5 (-180) | Carolina Hurricanes -1.5 (+160)
- Money Line: New York Rangers +146 | Carolina Hurricanes -164
- Total: Over 5.5 (-108) | Under 5.5 (-108)
Team Analysis
New York Rangers (+146)
The Rangers have shown resilience and strategic depth, with standout performances from their goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who has been pivotal with a .929 save percentage in the playoffs. "It’s a little early to start talking about the Conn Smythe Trophy for the playoff MVP in 2024, but New York Rangers‘ goaltender Igor Shesterkin is one of the early frontrunners for that award," reflects the impact Shesterkin has had. The Rangers have also capitalized on their power play opportunities, a critical factor in their current series lead.
Carolina Hurricanes (-164)
The Hurricanes, despite being one of the favorites for the Stanley Cup, are facing challenges, particularly with their special teams. "The Carolina power play has gone 0-for-10 to open the Rangers’ series," highlighting a significant area needing improvement. Goalie Frederik Andersen has been decent but will need to elevate his game to fend off the high-scoring Rangers. Sebastian Aho has been a consistent playmaker, but his inability to score on the power play has been noticeable.
Predictions for Game 3
The prediction for tonight's game leans towards the Hurricanes making a strong comeback on home ice.
The historical resilience of the team, combined with the support of the home crowd and the urgency to avoid a 3-0 deficit, suggests that Carolina will secure a win. Additionally, a tighter, more disciplined game from the Hurricanes is expected, which could limit scoring chances for both teams.
The under on 5.5 goals is also predicted, anticipating a defensive battle with fewer scoring opportunities.