The title defense for the Florida Panthers is off to a strong start. Winners of three of their first four, the quest for a three-peat is well underway. But the Detroit Red Wings are nipping at their heels and pose a threat for this matchup.
For Wednesday’s game, the Panthers have the edge at -142 on the moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook, while the Predators are listed at +180. The total is set at 6.5 goals. Let’s get into a preview, prediction, and pick for this matchup between the Red Wings and Panthers.
Red Wings vs. Panthers preview, prediction
As usual, it’s been a balanced formula for the Panthers. Without Aleksander Barkov, they needed many players to step up offensively and defensively. So far, that’s been the case; ten different Florida skaters have recorded multiple points through three games. As a unit, they’ve allowed a respectable 10 goals through four games. To nobody’s surprise, Brad Marchand is leading the charge all over the ice.
Detroit doesn’t have the same chances at contending, but they’d sure love a playoff push this season. A lot of youth is rising to the top, bringing help to franchise cornerstone Dylan Larkin. Lucas Raymond, Moritz Seider, and a few other first-rounders have arrived to bring reinforcements. They’re also getting essential contributions from veterans. That includes Patrick Kane, the current leader for the “unc’s still got it” award.
It’s a clash of the powerhouse vs. the up-and-comers, the veterans against the youth. Who prevails in this Atlantic Division showdown?
Red Wings vs. Panthers pick, best bet
It sure doesn’t feel easy to pick against the Panthers. But Detroit’s formula has looked strong in the early going. They have a growing defense and a strong offensive attack that will put pressure on Florida, preventing them from matching top lines with their checking forwards as often as they’d like. The home team will pull this one out.
