Published Dec 24, 2:10am EST by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Dec 24, 2:10am EST
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Dec 24, 2:10am EST
NHL action is set for December 27, as the Florida Panthers host the Tampa Bay Lightning. Find our picks here.
The reigning Stanley Cup champions have rediscovered their best form in the last month, winning eight of their last ten. Over that period, they have suffered just two defeats in regulation.
Meanwhile, the Lightning have been in strong recent form, winning each of their last two. At present, they sit third in the Atlantic Division standings.
The Florida Panthers have bounced back to their very best form in recent weeks, winning eight of their last ten to improve their overall record to 20-14-2.
Last time out, they stormed to a 5-2 road success against the Carolina Panthers, with all five of their goals being scored in the final period.
Sam Reinhart was a standout star in that win, recording three assists. Florida have been excellent in home games this season, going 12-7-2.
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The Tampa Bay Lightning are among the current favorites to win the Eastern Conference this season.
They have gone 20-13-3 in the NHL this season, and they come into this round after winning their last two. However, their record over their previous ten could be a slight concern after going 4-5-1.
The Lightning were last in action earlier this week, beating the St. Louis Blues 4-1. On the road, they have been consistent this season, winning ten of their 17 games.
| TOTAL | Lightning | Panthers | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 203 | 95 | 98 | - |
| GOALS | 1229 | 599 | 630 |
The Panthers have rediscovered their best form in recent weeks, but they could come unstuck against one of the best away teams in the Eastern Conference. The Lightning could be the logical play based on their winning run in the NHL.
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Pick
Tampa Bay Lightning
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