Hurricanes vs Sharks Picks and Prediction – 3/21/2025

The Carolina Hurricanes (41-22-4) are set to face the San Jose Sharks (18-41-9) on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the SAP Center in San Jose. The game is scheduled to begin at 10:30 PM ET and will be broadcast on ESPN+. Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.

The Hurricanes enter this matchup on a seven-game winning streak, showcasing their strong form as the season progresses. They have been effective offensively, averaging 3.22 goals per game, while defensively, they allow an average of 2.61 goals per game. In their recent outing, the Hurricanes secured a dominant 5-0 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, with Mark Jankowski contributing two goals. Carolina's special teams have been notable, with a power play success rate of 18.10% and a penalty kill efficiency that has been effective in limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. 

The Sharks have faced challenges this season, holding an 18-41-9 record. Offensively, they average 2.58 goals per game, while defensively, they have struggled, allowing an average of 3.66 goals per game. In their previous game, San Jose suffered a 5-1 loss to the Washington Capitals, highlighting their recent defensive vulnerabilities. A bright spot for the Sharks has been rookie forward Macklin Celebrini, who netted his 21st goal of the season in the recent matchup against the Capitals. San Jose's power play operates at 19.80%, but their penalty kill has been an area needing improvement.

This matchup features a Hurricanes team riding a wave of momentum against a Sharks squad that has been in the cellar of the NHL all season. The Hurricanes are a rightful favorite, and we have no other option than to take the chalk and the easy win for the Canes, 5-2.