Penguins vs Panthers Picks and Prediction – 1/4/2025

The Pittsburgh Penguins (17-17-5) are set to face the Florida Panthers (23-14-2) on January 3, 2025, at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. The puck drops at 7:00 PM EST. This matchup features a high-powered Florida offense against a Pittsburgh team looking to tighten its defense. Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.

The Penguins have scored 117 goals this season, ranking 11th in the NHL, with a power play converting at a rate of 25.93%, scoring 28 goals on 108 opportunities. However, defensively, Pittsburgh has struggled, allowing 139 goals, which ranks them last in goals against per game, and 29th in shots against per game. Sidney Crosby is the star man, with 41 points.

The Panthers boast a potent offense, averaging 3.39 goals per game, placing them sixth in the league, while their power play is one of the NHL's best, converting at 26.09%, third overall. Defensively, Florida allows 3.05 goals per game, ranking 19th, indicating room for improvement. Sam Reinhart leads a talented squad with 45 points.

Considering recent trends, the Penguins are 1-4 against the spread (ATS) in their last five games, and the total has gone OVER in four of their last six contests, reflecting higher-scoring matchups. On the other hand, the Panthers are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games, with the total going UNDER in five of their last seven games, indicating lower-scoring affairs.

The Panthers have been slumping a bit lately and have not been able to put away good teams. Laying the chalk as a heavy favorite is just not an option for this team. We like the value more on the Penguins as underdogs. Pittsburgh has the keys to win this 3-2.