Penguins vs Hurricanes Picks and Prediction – 1/5/2025

The Pittsburgh Penguins (17-17-6) are set to face the Carolina Hurricanes (23-13-2) on January 5, 2025, at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM EST and will be broadcast on the FanDuel Sports Network. Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.

The Penguins are coming off a 4-2 loss to the Detroit Red Wings, where they managed to convert only 2 of their 25 shots. Pittsburgh's offense has been middling this season, ranking 14th in the league with 119 goals. Their power play has been a bright spot, converting at a rate of 26.13%. However, defensively, they have struggled, allowing 143 goals. Goaltender Tristan Jarry holds a career save percentage of .910 and a goals-against average of 2.93. 

The Hurricanes have been performing well, boasting a 23-13-2 record. They have a strong track record in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation, winning 10 of their last 14 such games. Martin Necas has been a revelation for the Carolina Hurricanes. Necas has poured in 46 points (15 goals 31 assists). Necas, teaming up with Sebastian Aho (12 goals 28 assists) have created a spark of life in the Carolina offense, and wins have followed.

Carolina is playing well right now, and have the home ice advantage in this matchup against the Penguins. Carolina is a favorite here, but it is warranted, as Pittsburgh has not given us much to like this year. We will take the chalk and back the Carolina Hurricanes to win 3-1.