Welcome to the latest edition of NHL Predictions. Each day, the team here at Last Word on Hockey will dive deep into analysis for any given game to give you the scoop on what elements can change the outcome. Today, we’re taking a look at the contest between the Carolina Hurricanes and the San Jose Sharks. Be sure to keep an eye on our other NHL Predictions as the season presses on.

NHL Predictions

Carolina Hurricanes at San Jose Sharks

Time: 10:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EDT)

TV: FDSNSO, NBCSCA, ESPN+

The Carolina Hurricanes are headed for Teal Town to take on the San Jose Sharks in a cross-conference matchup. Sure to be an exciting game, it will also hold a bit more significance. At 40 years old and in the final year of his contract, longtime Sharks defenceman Brent Burns (a pivotal player in their storied history and member of their first quarter-century team) will make the final trip of the season to the Shark Tank with the Carolina Hurricanes. The connection between these teams doesn’t stop with the legendary blueliner, either, as the Sharks’ head coach, Ryan Warsofsky, previously led the Canes’ AHL affiliate Chicago Wolves (as well as the Charlotte Checkers) from behind the bench, as well.

The Carolina Story

Starting off this set of NHL predictions, we’ll discuss the visitors. Hurricanes are a rarity in California, and that is no different in hockey. Currently, the Canes are embarking on their final west coast road trip of the regular season, starting the journey in San Jose.

It has been a wild season for Carolina, with winning streaks, offensive production droughts, and the often discussed (sometimes a little too discussed) trades, they’ve been one of the most interesting and most dizzying teams this season. The newest additions, Mark Jankowski and Logan Stankoven, have not failed to disappoint since their arrival in the City of Oaks, fitting in superbly with Carolina’s system. With both getting goals in their first game with the team, and Jankowski breaking an NHL record. Jankowski became the first player on record to score on his first four shots on goal with a new team.

Now with the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, the post-season picture is the destination the Canes are locking in on. On a seven-game winning streak and with just 15 more games to go for their regular season, every point counts.

Caniacs, without further ado, Mark Jankowski!

His first game with the Carolina Hurricanes, he launched an absolutely wicked shot past one of the best goaltenders in the entire league, the latest Vezina Trophy winner, Connor Hellebuyck.

Carolina leads the Winnipeg Jets 1-0 at… pic.twitter.com/a0lvz8HuyI

— Queen of the Puck (@rbarkleyhockey) March 9, 2025

The San Jose Story

It was long expected, but Sunday the San Jose Sharks were officially eliminated from the playoff race as the St. Louis Blues defeated the Anaheim Ducks. The last time the Sharks made the playoffs, they ironically lost in the Western Conference Finals to the Blues, who later went on to win the Stanley Cup. Nonetheless, the future is teal and bright for the aquatic Pacific team. Having traded out many players for an assortment of draft picks, alongside their already present young core and prospect pool (such as 2024 first rounder Sam Dickinson, who just recently broke the London Knights’ franchise record for most points in a season by a defenceman), it is expected that the upcoming seasons will see a return to playoff contention.

Despite the challenges and failure to make the playoffs, the Sharks aren’t turning off the motors yet. Every game gives valuable experience for the rookies and younger players, and even if it isn’t the playoffs, it is still against teams who are fighting like dirty dogs in the street to clinch their spots in the postseason. Learning from each game and finding enjoyment in the grind has been the Sharks’ theme lately, but it doesn’t mean they will be a blow over team for the rest of their season.

NHL Predictions Featuring the San Jose Sharks and the Carolina Hurricanes

The contest between the Canes and the Sharks will be a late one for the Eastern team, beginning at 10:30 p.m. EDT. While they have had a four-day break between games, getting some much-needed rest, the late time could still factor into their play. The goaltender likely to take the starter’s crease is Frederik Andersen, as Pyotr Kochetkov played the last game, in which he recorded his tenth career shutout. This is assuming they continue the alternating tandem despite the rather lengthy break. Aside from the goaltending, the lines will be important to monitor for the Canes, as Dmitry Orlov may return from his injury to play in this game. Andrei Svechnikov remains unlikely to play due to his own injury.

As for the Sharks, the assumed goaltender would be Alexandar Georgiev, though it does remain a significant question as he was relieved by Georgi Romanov after allowing three goals in the first period in their previous game against the Washington Capitals. Georgiev has started 22 of 23 games played this season, while Romanov played for the first time this season in their last game. The likelihood of Romanov getting the start is low, but still good to check on before placing bets.

Prediction: Hurricanes win 5-3

Your Nightly Bets

Our selection of Hurricanes players to keep an eye on for this game for general points are Seth Jarvis and Brent Burns. The former currently sits on a five-game point streak, whereas the latter has had streaky points production, though will likely be extra motivated for that goal or assist against the team he’d played for the majority of his career. As for goal scorers, Mark Jankowski has been nailing them, as previously mentioned. Alternatively or additionally, Jalen Chatfield on the blueline and Taylor Hall up-front will be good players to keep an eye on.

For the Sharks, it is a bit tricky to pin down on likelihood and for a good return, but Tyler Toffoli and William Eklund could be decent wagers for general points. Both have enjoyed quality offensive production throughout the season. For goalscorers, we’re going with the rookie monsters in Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.

Main Photo Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

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Carolina’s track record of developing a world-class defensive core isn’t going anywhere with the impending addition of Alexander Nikishin. Standing tall at 6’4″, and 216 lbs, the Russian monster is regarded as one of the world’s top prospects. Since he has spent his entire post-draft career in the KHL, Nikishin remains relatively unknown outside of Hurricanes fans and those like us watching prospects not currently in the show. However, with his blend of offence, and physical power, he’s expected to become a household name as soon as he joins the NHL. Nikishin projects to be a top-four defenceman for the Hurricanes potentially as early as the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

All Signs Point to the Carolina Hurricanes Prospect Alexander Nikishin a Star

One of the aspects that makes Nikishin so desirable is his ability to put up points. Over the past two seasons, he has led all KHL defencemen in scoring, posting back-to-back campaigns of 55 and 56 points. Now, this season, he is on pace for 48 points in 62 games. That would be the lowest of his point totals with SKA St. Petersburg. However, it would mark his highest goal total at 18. The majority of his goals come as a result of a booming slapshot from the point. Something that you don’t see as much in modern-day NHL. In addition to his shot, he succeeds at jumping down the boards and slipping into open ice for a pass. He has all the tools to be a future NHL power play quarterback.

More Offensive Potential

Another offensive strength would be his transitional ability. He skates well and can quickly accelerate through the neutral zone and transition with ease. In the process, he slows down the game and finds openings for his teammates. While his overall passing abilities are a strength, his decision-making can sometimes falter. He will occasionally force the puck to dangerous areas of the ice, putting his teammates in tricky positions and causing turnovers. His playmaking ability is promising, but he will need to refine his decision-making to avoid costly mistakes in the NHL’s faster environment.

Alexander Nikishin is now the only defenseman in KHL history with 3 straight 40+ point seasons.

2022/23: 55 points
2023/24: 56 points
2024/25: 40 points (with games to play)

From age 21-23. pic.twitter.com/ACMIbwm2wM

— Canes Prospects (@CanesProspects) February 25, 2025

The Defensive Side

With Nikishin’s large frame, he brings some physicality to his defensive game. He’s not afraid to get under a player’s skin and push them around when defending his net. Alexander’s ability to box out opponents, seal the puck, and control the net-front area is already at an NHL level. He can accelerate quickly to engage in board battles and his size gives him an advantage when battling forecheckers.

With this being said, his defensive instincts still need some fine tuning. Despite the quick acceleration, Nikishin can be slow to identify when he needs to engage and struggles at times to scan the ice. This results in Alexander being slightly out of place, leaving open passing lanes for the opposing team. Additionally, his gap control off the rush is another area that could use improvement, as he tends to give up space to attacking forwards. Nikishin must continue to develop a heightened sense of urgency and awareness if he hopes to thrive in the NHL.

Geesh.
Nothing is easy against #LetsGoCanes prospect Alexander Nikishin. #hcSKA #KHLplayoffs pic.twitter.com/8BHxxPmo5R

— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) March 1, 2023

A Matter of When, Not If

Despite some natural flaws in his game, Nikishin’s potential is immense and the NHL will know his name before too long. He is not only an offensive defenceman but a well-rounded player who can impact all areas of the ice. Scouts are confident that Alexander should be able to sort out his game and be an effective NHL player. This biggest issue is his arrival date from over seas, and how he will adjust to hockey in North America.

Carolina Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky has already expressed a strong desire to sign Alexander Nikishin once his KHL contract ends on June 1st. There is a small chance that if SKA St. Petersburg’s season ends early, his contract could be terminated and he could join the hurricanes as soon as that happens. For right now, however, the more likely outcome is that he will be in the Hurricanes line-up on Opening Day. Patience is required, but it appears that waiting for Alexander Nikishin will be well worth the wait for Carolina.

As confirmed by Eric Tulsky, the plan is to have Alexander Nikishin join the team “as soon as possible” following the expiry of his contract.

He mentioned that Nikishin and his agent share the same mindset

As a reminder, the KHL season officially ends May 31st pic.twitter.com/Gbi2tGhHUp

— Canes Prospects (@CanesProspects) March 7, 2025

Main Photo Credit: George Walker IV-Imagn Images

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The Dallas Stars made a huge splash at the trade deadline, acquiring 28-year-old All-Star forward Mikko Rantanen from the Carolina Hurricanes.

In return, Dallas sent forward Logan Stankoven and multiple draft picks, including two first-rounders, to Carolina. Rantanen agreed to an eight-year, $12 million AAV contract extension with the Stars. He rejected similar offers to stay with Carolina and Colorado beyond the season. Stalemates with both his previous teams made him available to Dallas.

“He’s in his prime — one of the top forwards in the game. We think he’s a great fit for us,” Stars general manager Jim Nill told the media during a press conference shortly after the deadline had passed. “The connection with the Finns on our team and that, and we’ve watched him play against us for the last 6, 7, 8 years. Everybody knows how accomplished a player he is. It’s not very often when you’ve got a solid team that you have an opportunity to add a player like that.”

Dallas Stars Make Deadline Splash

Rumours of Rantanen to the Stars heated up on Thursday. During the “32 Thoughts” podcast’s trade deadline preview show, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned Dallas as a potential landing spot. He later clarified that his thoughts were purely speculation.

“There’s going to be teams jumping all over that, and I would think Dallas would be one of them,” Friedman said. “They’ve got a Finnish mafia, too, and they’ve got things to trade.  You look at them and say, if Rantanen gets flipped, they would be a team that I would think can do it- both in terms of cap space and what they have in their organization.”

Turns out Friedman was spot on. Nill disclosed that Dallas had monitored Rantanen’s situation for weeks since it became clear he wasn’t staying in Carolina. And Friday, the Stars added to their “Finnish Mafia” with one of the most skillful players in the NHL. Rantanen is another bona fide goal-scorer, with five 30-goal seasons and three 40-goal seasons in his career.

How the Dallas Stars’ Trade Deadline Moves Affect Lineup

Rantanen will slide onto Dallas’ first line alongside Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz. But that’s not the only move Dallas made to bolster its roster. The Stars also added veteran forward Mikael Granlund and defenceman Cody Ceci from the San Jose Sharks. Their veteran presence should help the team as it heads for the playoffs and hopes to compete.

When the Stars are fully healthy, they will have combinations of Tyler Seguin, Mason Marchment, and Matt Duchene and Jamie Benn, Wyatt Johnston, and Granlund right behind a lethal first line. It’d be tough to find a deeper first three lines in the NHL at the rate those nine players have produced throughout their careers.

Dallas also could have used defensive depth. Yet, Nill likes enough of what he has seen from the development of the guys on the roster. He specifically mentioned Thomas Harley and Lian Bichsel as players who have had a positive impact along the blueline.

Dallas Stars’ Future Impacts

The deals also helped the Stars sign Johnston to a five-year contract extension on Friday. Johnston was one of several young core pieces the Stars had up for contract extensions in the upcoming seasons. They solidify one of their cornerstones by getting it done now.

Johnston will still be 26 years old when his extension concludes, opening up the possibility of a second massive contract for the forward—whether in Dallas or elsewhere. Dallas will still have to do some cap maneuvering for the foreseeable future. Players are set to return from LTIR just before the playoffs. Others will demand new contracts as they prove their worth on the ice. Plus, some contracts with additional funds and bonuses are set to kick in.

However, the opportunity to add a superstar at the trade deadline was simply one you do not turn away. Jim Nill could have wrapped up a third consecutive General Manager of the Year Award with his most recent moves. At the very least, they have the Stars set up to win at all costs and compete for the Stanley Cup this season and, possibly, well beyond that.

Main photo by: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Winnipeg Jets vs. Carolina Hurricanes. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.

NHL Predictions

Winnipeg Jets vs Carolina Hurricanes

Head-to-Head: Jets 1-0 Hurricanes

Time: 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: TSN3; Fan Duel Sports South; ESPN+

We open up NHL predictions with our featured game between the Jets and the Hurricanes. Connor Hellebuyck is the expected starter for Winnipeg, but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. The Jets are 7-2-1 in the last 10 games and are winners of two straight. Kyle Connor has been rolling this season 33 goals and 47 assists for Winnipeg.

Frederik Andersen is the projected starter for Carolina, which is 5-5 in the last 10 games. However, the Hurricanes have won three straight games entering this matchup. Sebastian Aho leads the team in goals (24) and points (60) for Carolina.

Both teams made some big changes at the deadline. However, the Jets pick up the win in this one.

Prediction: Jets win 4-2.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs New York Rangers

Head-to-Head: Blue Jackets 0-2 Rangers

Time: 6 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: Sportsnet; Fan Duel Sports Ohio; MSG; ESPN+

We have another big matchup for this round of NHL predictions between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the New York Rangers. Elvis Merzlikins is the likely starter for the Blue Jackets, who are 4-5-1 in the last 10 games. This includes two straight losses entering this pivotal matchup. Zach Werenski is the team’s leader in assists (46) and points (66).

Jonathan Quick is the expected starter for the Rangers, who are 5-3-2 in the last 10 games. However, the Blueshirts have lost two in a row and this includes a crushing loss to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. Artemi Panarin is first on the Rangers with 27 goals and 66 points.

This is a big matchup, but the Blue Jackets get the victory.

Prediction: Blue Jackets win 3-2.

Los Angeles Kings vs Vegas Golden Knights

Head-to-Head: Kings 1-1 Golden Knights

Time: 8 p.m, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: Fan Duel Sports West; Scripps Vegas; ESPN+

The last game of NHL predictions is a Pacific Division matchup between the Los Angeles Kings and the Vegas Golden Knights. Los Angeles is expected to start David Rittich in the blue paint. The Kings are 4-3-3 in the last 10 games and have a victory coming into this game. Adrian Kempe is the team’s leader in goals (26) and points (51) for the Kings.

Adin Hill is the likely starter for the Golden Knights, who are 7-3 in the last 10 games. Vegas has also won its last four games in row prior to this divisional game. Jack Eichel is tops in assists (55) and points (75) for the Golden Knights.

These two teams underwent some changes during the deadline, but Vegas takes the win.

Prediction: Golden Knights win 4-3.

Prop Bets of the Night

We finish up NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Let’s go to our featured game for our preferred props. On the Winnipeg side, take Nikolaj Ehlers to get a goal in this one. For Carolina, take Aho to get the over on 0.5 points.

Main photo by: James Guillory-Imagn Images

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The Carolina Hurricanes have shimmied their way to the headlines yet again with a blockbuster trade. It was only January when the Canes shocked the hockey world. At that time they were entering a three-way tango with the Colorado Avalanche and Chicago Blackhawks. And now, they have hit the metaphorical dance floor once more to the tune of another big trade. News emerged that the Mikko Rantanen trade has been done with the Dallas Stars.

Reports are the Logan Stankoven and two first-round picks are going back in return. However, Carolina will also be getting third-round picks in 2026 and 2027.

Carolina Hurricanes Make Mikko Rantanen Trade

Rantanen will not suit up in Carolina Red for another game. It comes as a shock to most, though perhaps not to some who have had their ear to the ground. Elliotte Friedman has announced that the 28-year-old Finnish Forward has been dealt to Dallas Stars. The Hurricanes’ return will be a massive one. Furthermore, Rantanen has agreed to an extension with the Stars. The contract has a $12 million average annual value and goes for eight seasons.

Mikko Rantanen and the Dallas Stars are closing in on an extension

8 years, $12M AAV. Would get the deal done.

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 7, 2025

The power forward only spent 13 games in a Canes sweater and initially came at the cost of Martin Nečas, Jack Drury, and two draft picks. While it is a shame to see him go, too, it would have been a travesty for him to inevitably be lost in free agency after what was spent to acquire him. This is a smart play made by Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky and Stars general manager Jim Nill. For Carolina, they won’t be losing him for nothing after trading such valuable assets to land him in the first place. Meanwhile, his new organization will have the first crack at extending his contract before he even has to hit free agency.

The Mikko Dallas Traded For

Rantanen is big. No, not just in terms of his reputation, but physically. Standing at 6’4” and weighing over 200 lbs, he is a commanding force on the ice and an intimidating one to see speeding your way down the wing. This paired with his physical playstyle makes it crystal clear why they call him “Moose”. And if that doesn’t sound scary enough, double underline the word “speeding” prior to my previous sentence. He is a fast mover, fast thinker, fast passer, and fast scorer. Size does not slow this Finn down.

Outside of that, his agility, precision, versatility, and overall hockey IQ make him an incredibly valuable asset on the ice. Furthermore, his leadership skills, which he greatly improved on as an alternate captain for the Avs, mixed with his dedication to his team and community on and off the ice are bound to make him a popular member of the Stars. Quite frankly, he’s the full package.

What the Mikko Rantanen Trade Means

If we had a nickel for every time the Carolina Hurricanes made waves on trades this season involving this guy, we would have two nickels. Which isn’t much, but it is weird that it happened twice. Rantanen will be missed by Hurricanes fans, as will his new fans. But ultimately, this should be beneficial to both teams. Rantanen’s slow results in Carolina do not represent his usual play. The mindset that comes with an unexpected trade and the collecting team combating illness in the locker room over the course of his first five games are not the circumstances that lead to a great start. If Rantanen is happy where he plays, then fans can imagine that they will be getting to see the same Moose charging through American Airlines Center that so often rampaged in Ball Arena.

Main Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

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We’ve got some more NHL rumours as we speed towards the NHL trade deadline. The deadline wraps up at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. However, there is plenty of last-minute fervor surrounding the big moment. General managers are scrambling to make moves that will bolster their Stanley Cup chances. We’ve already seen some massive moves, but more could be coming. One team that could be making a major move is the Dallas Stars. This edition of NHL rumours deals with them taking a swing at a Carolina Hurricanes forward.

All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.

NHL Rumours

Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes Working on Deal for Star Forward

Rumour: Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman offered his latest update on the Mikko Rantanen situation. Friedman said that the Stars and the Hurricanes have a “framework” for a potential deal. However, it’s not a done deal as of late last night according to the insider.

Analysis: It seems that the Hurricanes weren’t able to make an extension happen with the Finnish forward. Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky made a big swing in landing Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche. However, it looks like a contract extension wasn’t able to happen.

Carolina made a massive move last trade deadline in landing Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, the Hurricanes weren’t able to make a contract extension happen. The Guentzel deal turned into one painful rental and Tulsky doesn’t want to repeat that mistake.

Friedman mentioned that the particulars have been agreed to. However, the deal won’t get more momentum until the Stars are comfortable in getting a deal done. The insider mentions that the contract extension will be a vital component in starting the trade process.

Carolina had received multiple offers for Rantanen, but it seems that the offer from Dallas is the most compelling one. There would likely have to be a massive haul coming the other way in order to make this deal a thing.

What It Means

Dallas has already been active in getting Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci from the San Jose Sharks. However, Stars General Manager Jim Nill may not be done cooking up a major move for his team. Dallas got to the Western Conference Final last year, but it wants to get back to the Stanley Cup Final or even win it all.

However, TSN’s Darren Dreger said that Carolina may have to consider other offers. He said there’s no deal at this time between Rantanen and the Stars. That doesn’t mean that a deal may not happen. However, the clock is ticking and things could get a bit gnarly.

Tulsky doesn’t want to have a repeat of what happened to Guentzel last year. He’s going to have to get something out of Rantanen or risk letting him walk away for nothing.

This is an ever-changing situation and Frank Seravalli of The Daily Faceoff said the deal is conditional based on a contract extension. Dreger adds that the Stars are willing go upwards of $12 million per season to extend him.

Main photo by: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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It’s time for another round of NHL rumours. The big day has almost arrived in the NHL trade deadline. We’ve already seen a number of big moves before March 7. However, more could be coming as we race towards the finish line. Some clubs are doing their best to make things happen and get some clarity. One team that’s been in the news is the Carolina Hurricanes. This edition of NHL rumours deals with an in-demand that the Canes must decide on.

All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.

NHL Rumours

Latest News Surrounding Carolina Hurricanes Forward

Rumour: A number of insiders have been giving updates on what the future holds for Mikko Rantanen with the Hurricanes.

Decision time for the Canes. #TradeCentre pic.twitter.com/DiX49SiYoZ

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) March 6, 2025

Analysis: Carolina has made a push to sign the Finnish star, but it seems his camp isn’t ready to make a decision on their offer. Hence, Carolina is talking to teams to see if a deal could happen. This is according to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun.

Rantanen was a big swing made by first-year general manager Eric Tulsky before the Four Nations Face-Off. Carolina management did make a big offer to Rantanen prior to the deadline, but it seems a contract may not be in place by the 3 p.m. EST Friday deadline.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman said the Canes were exploring all options in his 9 p.m. Wednesday update. LeBrun said that its a matter of weighing the best offers versus keeping Rantanen as a rental.

This isn’t the first time that Carolina has made a big move late in the season. Previous general manager Don Waddell took a big chance to land Jake Guentzel at the last trade deadline. However, Guentzel did not end up re-signing and opted to go to the Tampa Bay Lightning last July 1.

What It Means

Carolina doesn’t want to get burned again for another expensive rental. This is why it seems like Tulsky might have to part with one of his first big-name acquisitions sooner rather than later. Letting Rantanen walk for nothing in free agency would be a huge blunder.

There are a number of teams that have asked about the Finn at the deadline. Friedman mentions the Los Angeles Kings, Dallas Stars and the Toronto Maple Leafs as suitors. Any one the teams would love to get Rantanen for their respective Stanley Cup Playoff push. However, the asking price will likely be a high one.

This could a major crossroads for Tulsky early in his tenure with the Hurricanes. Landing Rantanen was a major coup, but he was in the front office when Guentzel walked away for nothing. He’s well aware of what happened over the summer.

There’s always a chance Tulsky doesn’t deal Rantanen and the chips fall where they may. Rantanen could end up signing his big offer and stay in Raliegh long term. However, it would be a massive risk if Rantanen isn’t traded and he gets to free agency on July 1. A number of teams would love to pony up the cash to land a proven goalscorer.

Main photo by: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Every day, Last Word on Hockey provides insights and analysis to predict the outcome of the games on the NHL schedule. Today, we will examine the matchup between the Boston Bruins and the Carolina Hurricanes. Be sure to check out all of our NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season moves along.

NHL Predictions

2024-25 Head-to-Head: Bruins 0-1 Hurricanes

Time: 7:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

TV: NESN; FDSN; SN360

The Bruins (28-27-8) head to Raleigh, North Carolina, to face the Hurricanes (36-22-4) at the Lenovo Center in an exciting matchup Thursday night. This will be the second of three showdowns between these Eastern Conference rivals, with Carolina holding a 1-0 lead after their dominant 8-2 victory over Boston on Hallowe’en. The Bruins continue to slide out of playoff contention, while the Hurricanes are pushing through off-ice distractions.

Boston Must Find a Sense of Urgency

The Boston Bruins eight-year streak of making the postseason will likely be coming to an end as they continue to falter. They currently sit at 12th in the eastern conference with 64 points. Although they’re only two points out of the second wildcard spot, the B’s have played at least two more games than every team they’re battling with. In their last 12 games played, the Bruins have a record of 3-7-2. This type of struggle is unacceptable this time of year, something needs to change starting with their sense of urgency.

This has been an issue for the Bruins all season long, but most notably in the last month or so. Aside from David Pastrnak, the team has seemed to have lost their fight. Whenever something goes wrong, they crumble and allow their opponent to dominate them to the point of no return. Proven in their last meeting, the Hurricanes thrashed the Bruins because they were unable to stop the bleeding. The Bruins have the fifth worst goal differential in the NHL with a -31, when they lose, they lose big. Pastrnak, along with Mason Lohrei must continue to carry this team to prevent the season from becoming even more of a disaster.

In their last game before the NHL’s trade deadline, many Bruins could potentially be playing their last game in the black and gold. That remains to be seen but players like Brandon Carlo, Justin Brazeau, Morgan Geekie, and Charlie Coyle could be on the move come Friday. If he hasn’t already made up his mind about what this team is, Bruins GM, Don Sweeney could use this as one final audition to plan what he may do moving forward. If they hope to keep this core together, they must play their hearts out in Carolina.

Overcome the Distraction in Carolina

The Carolina Hurricanes may occupy the most intriguing story in the league currently. Newly acquired Mikko Rantanen remains unsigned just one day before the trade deadline. The rumours continue to fly but Rantanen could be on the move for a second time in not even two months. The Canes have won three of their last four but since acquiring Rantanen, they have not been the same team they were prior.

Carolina currently controls the second seed in the metropolitan division with 76 points. Potentially trading their new star was not something they originally had in mind. As the deadline approaches, the more of a reality it seems to be. This is a situation we haven’t really seen before in the NHL so the Canes must continue their solid play and focus on picking up two points against a struggling Boston team.

With Rantanen potentially sitting out due to trade related reasons, Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis must carry the load for Carolina. Aho has 59 points in 61 games while Jarvis has 46 in 55. Luckily for them, Boston is without their captain and top two defensemen in Brad Marchand, Charlie McAvoy, and Hampus Lindholm. This allows for players like Aho and Jarvis to generate strong offensive chances against Jeremy Swayman, who has not been himself. If Carolina plays their game and blocks out the noise, they should come out of this one with two points.

NHL Predictions

The Bruins haven’t beaten a team that currently occupies a playoff spot in over a month. On February 4th they beat the Wild 3-0. Given their recent struggles, its hard to imagine them having success against a much better team. Despite their current situation, Carolina is good enough to battle through it and get the best of a team they dominated earlier in the season.

Prediction: Hurricanes win 5-2

Prop Bets of the Night:

David Pastrnak hasn’t scored in his last two games, expect him to find the back of the net as he continues to drive the Bruins offence. He is listed at +140 to score. Former Bruin, Taylor Hall faces his former team for the third time since his departure. In 12 games as a Cane, Hall only has one goal but he has been playing better as of late. He is listed at +360 as an anytime goal scorer. Carolina is a -260 favourite at home.

Main Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Carolina Hurricanes vs. Detroit Red Wings. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.

NHL Predictions

Carolina Hurricanes vs Detroit Red Wings

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

TV: Fan Duel Sports South; Fan Duel Sports Detroit; ESPN+

We open up NHL predictions with the Hurricanes visiting the Red Wings. Pyotr Kochetkov is the expected starter for the Hurricanes, but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Carolina is 4-6 in the last 10 games, but did get a victory in its last time out. The much-speculated on Mikko Rantanen has netted 27 goals and 43 assists this season.

Alex Lyon is the projected starter for the Red Wings, who are 6-3-1 in the last 10 games. However, Detroit has dropped the last two games heading into this matchup. Alex DeBrincat has been red-hot as of late eight goals and six assists over the last 10 games for Detroit.

These two teams have post-season aspirations, but Detroit gets the victory to get back on track.

Prediction: Red Wings win 3-2.

Winnipeg Jets vs New York Islanders

Head-to-Head: Jets 1-0 Islanders

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

TV: Fan Duel Sports South; Fan Duel Sports Detroit; ESPN+

Our second game of NHL predictions has the Winnipeg Jets taking on the New York Islanders. Connor Hellebuyck is the likely starter for the Jets, who are 8-1-1 in the last 10 games. However, Winnipeg has dropped its last two games after reeling off a massive winning streak. Mark Scheifele has been playing well as of late with six goals and added five assists over the past 10 games for the Jets.

Jakub Skarek is the expected starter for the Islanders, who are 4-6 in the last 10 games. New York is fading fast out of Stanley Cup Playoff contention and needs a big win because the team is five points off a post-season spot. Anders Lee has collected 24 goals and 19 assists for the Islanders.

The Jets are looking to get back on track and they should against a young netminder.

Prediction: Jets win 4-1.

New Jersey Devils vs Dallas Stars

Head-to-Head: Devils 0-1 Stars

Time: 8 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

TV: ESPN+; Hulu

The last game of NHL predictions has the New Jersey Devils battling the Dallas Stars. New Jersey is expected to start Jacob Markstrom in between the pipes for this game. The Devils are likely to be without Jack Hughes and that will hurt their lineup. New Jersey is 5-5 in the last 10 games and Ondrej Palat has totaled three goals and added one assist over the same timeframe.

Jake Oettinger is the probable starter for the Stars, who are 7-2-1 in the last 10 games prior to this one. Dallas also has two consecutive victories entering the matchup with New Jersey. Wyatt Johnston has racked up 21 goals and 34 assists for the Stars.

The loss of Hughes will sting for the Devils and the Stars should win this.

Prediction: Stars win 4-2.

Prop Bets of the Night

We wrap up our NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Let’s go to our featured game for some props. On the Carolina side, take Sebastian Aho to get the over on 0.5 points. For Detroit, take Lucas Raymond to score a goal.

Main photo by: James Guillory-Imagn Images

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The post NHL Predictions: March 4 Carolina Hurricanes vs Detroit Red Wings appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.