Florida Panthers Aim for Series Victory Against Carolina Hurricanes
The Florida Panthers face the Carolina Hurricanes again, this time with the chance to secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Final for the third consecutive year. However, their first attempt to eliminate the Hurricanes fell short.
Closing out a playoff series is notoriously challenging, even for a team that holds the title of reigning champions. The Panthers have struggled in series-clinching games, posting a 4-7 record over the last two seasons. This includes a disappointing 3-0 loss at home on Monday, where they had the opportunity to sweep Carolina.
As they prepare for Game 5 in Raleigh, Florida's record in closeout games this year stands at 1-2. They lost to Toronto in Game 6 of the second round but managed to secure victory in Game 7 on the road. The Panthers are aiming to join an elite group of NHL franchises that have reached the Stanley Cup Final in three or more consecutive seasons.
Carolina's win in Game 4 not only extended their season but also snapped a 15-game losing streak in conference finals dating back to previous sweeps in 2009, 2019, and their recent defeat against Florida in 2023.
Currently trailing 3-1 in this best-of-seven series, the Hurricanes had previously tied for the NHL lead with 31 regular-season home wins and boasted a perfect 5-0 record through two playoff rounds. However, Florida dominated Games 1 and 2 in Raleigh, outscoring Carolina 10-2 and achieving their fourth consecutive road win this postseason, marking a total of seven overall victories.
