The Boston Bruins need a win over the Florida Panthers to prevent a playoff rematch
April 26, 2022
Panthers at Bruins
TD Garden – Boston, MA
7:00 PM ET
Florida -120
It’s that time of year when motivation becomes as much of a factor in games as talent. Some teams have a lot to play for, while others do not.
The Panthers fall into the latter category. Sort of.
Florida needs one more win to secure the Presidents’ Trophy. Having the best record in the NHL is a big-time accomplishment, something the Panthers would surely love to achieve. But they have three chances to get it done, with games against Ottawa and Montreal – two Atlantic Division bottom feeders – on the horizon.
Being healthy for the postseason is a bigger priority right now for Florida. Carter Verhaeghe hasn’t played in a week, as the left winger is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury.
Meanwhile, the Bruins have plenty to play for in their final three games. They’ve secured a playoff spot, but are still jockeying for position.
Right now, Boston is the top wild card. The Bruins are only three points back of Tampa Bay for third place in the Atlantic, however, and only three points ahead of Washington for the No. 8 seed.
They want to avoid the Panthers in the first round, so holding off the Capitals is critical. Getting a win tonight helps avoid having to play a seven-game series with Florida in the near future.
The Panthers are the best team in hockey. They’re one game removed from a 13-game winning streak.
But they don’t have the motivation tonight. The home teams, on the other hand, does. Go with Boston and the upset.
Norm LaChatlier’s Pick: Boston M/L (+106)
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Tuesday’s NHL Quick Picks
Pittsburgh M/L (-150)
Colorado M/L (-170)
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Monday’s NHL Winners
Chicago/Philadelphia under 6.5 goals (-115)
