Tampa Bay vs Carolina NHL Match Prediction
On September 25, Tampa Bay will host its first preseason match at home. The Lightning face a formidable opponent in Carolina, which has yet to impress fans with its performance this preseason. Who will come out on top in this upcoming game? Read on for our predictions and betting options.

Command Analysis

Tampa Bay Lightning

Last season was one of the least successful in the history of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Throughout the regular season, the team fought hard for a playoff spot but ultimately fell to the future champions, the Florida Panthers, in the first round, losing 1 to 4.
In the offseason, the Lightning made significant moves in the transfer market, particularly in their offensive lineup. The club lost one of the league's top forwards, Steven Stamkos, but welcomed several talented players like Cam Atkinson and Dominik Kahun. Additionally, defenseman Ryan McDonagh returned from Nashville, known for his offensive contributions, having tallied 33 points last season.
- Last season, Tampa averaged 3.5 goals per game.
- The Lightning averaged 11 penalty minutes per game.

Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina was viewed as a strong contender for the Stanley Cup last season, maintaining consistent performance throughout the regular season and securing the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings. In the playoffs, the team advanced confidently to the quarterfinals but faced their fierce rivals, the Rangers, falling in the series with a score of 2-4.
During the offseason, Carolina lost key players like Pesce and Teravainen. The challenge lies not just in the departure of these leaders but also in how they were replaced. The Hurricanes now feature more physical players such as Carrier and Robinson, yet it seems unlikely they can uphold the team's championship aspirations.
- Carolina allowed an average of 2.6 goals per game last season
- The Hurricanes averaged 33 shots on goal per match
Trends
Bet First Goal: «Tampa Bay»
In four out of six matchups, «Tampa Bay» scored first
1.87Bet Goal in Every Period – Yes
In five consecutive matchups, teams scored in every period
1.40Tip and bets
It’s unlikely that Carolina will be as strong this year, especially considering the losses the team suffered over the summer. Tampa Bay also lost a key player but unlike their opponent, they found intriguing and promising replacements. In the upcoming match, the Lightning will be playing on their home ice and could start all their newcomers, setting a serious pace for the Hurricanes. We believe the home advantage will support the Lightning, leading them to victory in this matchup.
Our prediction is a victory for Tampa Bay at 2.40
Total Goals Bet
Both teams possess strong offensive lines and aim to showcase their skills in the upcoming match. We believe they will not hold back defensively, prompting us to place a bet on over total goals.
Prediction - over six goals at 1.73
First Period Outcome Bet
In the first period, Tampa Bay is likely to leverage their home advantage to apply significant pressure on Carolina, which should enable the home team to gain an edge early in the game.
Prediction - Tampa Bay to win the first period with a handicap of (0) at 1.85