Florida Panthers vs Tampa Bay Lightning Game 5 Prediction – 4/30/2025

With the Florida Panthers holding a 3-1 series lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning, Game 5 on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, presents a critical juncture. The Panthers aim to advance to the second round, while the Lightning strive to extend the series and return to Tampa for Game 6. The puck drops at 7:00 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on ESPN.

Florida Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Game Preview

The Panthers won Game 4 of this series by a score of 4-2 to move within one game of advancing to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Florida trailed 2-1 going into the third period of that game before scoring three unanswered goals in the final period to secure the win. The defending Stanley Cup champions can advance to face the winner of the Senators vs Maple Leafs series with a victory here and they will look to use their home-ice advantage to get the job done tonight.

The Tampa Bay Lightning went 0-2 at home in the first two games of this best-of-seven series. While they picked up a win on the Panthers' home rink to move to within 2-1, they were unable to sustain that momentum in Game 4. Now the Lightning have to win three straight games to avoid elimination, starting with this game at home. For that to happen, the Lightning need to be more solid defensively after allowing four or more goals in half of the games in this series.

Betting Insights

• Moneyline: Panthers -105, Lightning -115
• Puck Line: Panthers +1.5 (-300), Lightning +1.5 (+210)
• Over/Under: 5.5 goals (Over -110, Under -110)

Despite the Lightning being at home, this game is basically a pick 'em. That is a product of the Lightning struggling to protect their home ice in this series, along with the championship experience of Florida.

Florida Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Game 5 Prediction

Considering the Panthers' strong road performance and the Lightning's struggles at home in this series, Florida appears poised to clinch the series in Game 5. The Panthers' offensive depth, combined with their effective special teams, gives them the edge.

1. Pick: Florida Panthers Moneyline (-105)
2. Lean: Over 5.5 Goals (-110)

In summary, the Panthers are well-positioned to close out the series, but bettors should consider the potential for a high-scoring game and a close final margin.

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