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Panthers vs. Canadiens Prediction and Odds (Claude Giroux to Make His Debut for Florida)

By Matt De Saro

Claude Giroux is now a Florida Panther.
Claude Giroux is now a Florida Panther. / Tim Nwachukwu/GettyImages
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This game will be mentioned in history books as the first time that Claude Giroux suited up for anyone other than the Philadelphia Flyers. Giroux was drafted to Philly with the 22nd pick in the 2006 draft and played exactly 1000 career games there before a recent trade to Florida. 

The Panthers were already one of the best teams in the NHL this year and lead the league in goals per game at 4.06. They are the only current team with an average of at least four. Now they add one a seven-time Al-Star center to the mix as they look to complete a playoff push.

Here are the odds for tonight’s showdown, courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook.

Panthers vs. Canadiens Odds and Total

Moneyline:

  • Panthers -280
  • Canadiens +240

Puck line:

  • Panthers +1.5 (-120)
  • Canadiens -1.5 (+100)

Total:

  • 6.5 (Over -115/Under -105)

Panthers vs. Canadiens Prediction and Pick

The Panthers couldn’t have timed this better. Giroux will get to debut against the only team in the NHL yet to break 20 wins. The Montreal Canadiens. Montreal is currently tied for last in points with the Arizona Coyotes. I will admit that the Habs are playing better lately. They are 4-6 straight up in their last 10 games. And yes, that is playing better for a team that has multiple losing streaks between five and ten games long. 

But, we're talking about the best offense in the NHL going up against a trash team that is playing a little better lately. It’s really not enough to have any hope In the Canadiens here. Meanwhile, the Panthers are 7-2 SU in their last nine games. These are not close games either.

The Panthers are coming off a 3-0 win over Anaheim on Friday. Florida also has recent wins of at least three goals against the Flyers, Sabers, Red Wings, and Senators. Ironically, the Panthers were the last team Giroux lost to as a member of the Flyers. 

This is an easy call for me with the Panthers hot, adding to their roster, and playing a garbage team.  

Pick: Panthers -1.5 (-120)

Follow all of Matt De Saro’s betting picks HERE

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