Eastern Conference: Hurricanes vs Capitals

Current Series Status: 3-1 (Carolina Leads)

The Metropolitan Division rivals continue their intense playoff history with Carolina needing just one more win to advance. Their Game 4 victory showcased crucial third-period execution from Svechnikov and Hall, while veteran goalie Andersen has provided stability since returning from injury.

Key Matchup Factors

• Scoring Depth: Carolina's 8 different goal scorers vs Washington's top-heavy Ovechkin/Kuznetsov duo
• Goalie Comparison: Andersen's 92.7% save percentage vs Thompson's 89.3% in elimination games
• Historical Trend: Hurricanes have won 7 of last 8 playoff meetings

Expert Prediction

Carolina closes out series 4-2 in Game 6 behind their defensive structure and secondary scoring.

Western Conference: Oilers vs Golden Knights

Current Series Status: 3-1 (Edmonton Leads)

McDavid's historic playoff performance (17 points in 10 games) has Edmonton on the verge of eliminating the defending champions. Vegas faces mounting challenges with Stone's uncertain health status and defensive miscues against Edmonton's speed.

Critical Battle Points

• Special Teams: Oilers' 31.4% power play vs Knights' struggling penalty kill (74.6%)
• Star Power: McDavid's 14 assists vs Eichel's 3-game goal drought
• Goalie Matchup: Skinner's 2.28 GAA vs Hill's 3.41 postseason numbers

Projected Outcome

Oilers complete series victory in 5 games through dominant even-strength play and McDavid's playmaking.

Smart Betting Opportunities

Series Winner Picks

• Hurricanes (-160): Value increases if series goes to Game 7
• Oilers (-210): Early closure reduces risk

Game-Specific Plays

• Carolina 3rd Period Over 1.5 Goals (+120)
• McDavid Anytime Goal + Oilers Win (+185)
• Ovechkin Over 4.5 Shots on Goal (-115)

Players to Watch

Andrei Svechnikov (CAR): 7 goals in last 9 playoff games
Connor McDavid (EDM): Averaging 1.7 points/game
Alex Ovechkin (WSH): Needs 3 goals to pass Messier in playoff scoring

Key Statistics

• Carolina leads playoffs in blocked shots (187)
• Edmonton's power play ranks 1st (31.4%)
• Vegas has worst faceoff percentage (47.3%) among remaining teams