Leafs vs. Panthers Game 3 Preview & Predictions (May 9, 2025)
The Toronto Maple Leafs are going into Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead over the Florida Panthers. Both games were decided by one goal, and now they are headed to Sunrise, Florida. The Panthers are under a lot of pressure to get a win and stay in contention. Can Toronto keep its lead, or will Florida rally at their home rink?
Game Overview
Before the puck drops, here’s the who, when, and where of Game 3:
- Series Status: Toronto leads 2 – 0
- Date & Time: Friday, May 9, at 7:00 pm ET
- Location: Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise, FL
- Broadcast: truTV
Recent Performance
Here’s how the first two games played out. Both teams have rock-solid offenses, and neither team is holding back, but Toronto has done a better job of finishing plays in the third period.
- Game 1: Toronto 5, Florida 4
- Game 2: Toronto 4, Florida 3 (Game Highlights)
The Leafs haven’t blown out the Panthers by any means, but they’ve cashed in at the right moments. Florida’s been close, but the scoreboard still says 0–2.
Team Insights
What’s working? What’s not working? Here’s a breakdown of the teams and their performances so far:
Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto’s clicking in all three zones. They’re on a six-game heater and have made it look like it’s no sweat. Mitch Marner’s creativity is giving Florida fits, Nylander’s finishing every chance he gets, and Joseph Woll continues to give them solid goaltending.
Florida Panthers
Florida isn’t getting run out of the building, but they just haven’t managed to close. Two losses by a single goal have them in a tough spot, but they’re not out of it yet. If Sergei Bobrovsky brings a big performance and the Panthers are able to clean up mistakes in their own end, the win could be theirs.
Betting Odds
As for betting odds, the sportsbooks have Florida as the solid fav on home ice. Here are the lines for Game 3 via BetMGM:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
Maple Leafs | +1.5 (-140) | +190 | Over 6 (-105) |
Panthers | -1.5 (+118) | -235 | Under 6 (-115) |
Yesterday Betting Odds
- Moneyline: Panthers -224, Maple Leafs +184
- Spread: Panthers -1.5 (+115), Maple Leafs +1.5 (-135)
- Total Goals (Over/Under): 6
Best Bets
The first two games have followed a pattern—a lot of scoring (by hockey standards) and close margins. Game 3 isn’t probably won’t stay far from that!
- Pick: Maple Leafs +1.5 (-135): Two one-goal games so far? Taking Toronto to cover the spread feels really safe, even if they come up short.
- Total – Over 6: The teams are generating a ton of chances, and both have weapons that don’t miss when it counts. Game 1 saw nine goals. Game 2 had seven. The number hasn’t moved, and that means that the over’s still worth taking.
Key Matchups to Watch
There are two main matchups to watch out for that could change the game:
- Mitch Marner (TOR) vs. Panthers Defense: Marner’s been a problem. He’s slicing through all coverage and setting up high-danger looks almost every shift. Florida hasn’t had a solution to him yet, and they need one STAT.
- Sergei Bobrovsky (FLA) vs. Maple Leafs Offense: Bobrovsky’s numbers don’t tell the whole story—he’s made some tough stops, but Toronto’s puck movement is pulling him out of position more than he’d like. If he doesn’t hold firm in the opening 20 minutes, the game could get away from him.
Game 3 Outlook: Must-Win for the Panthers
Note: Always gamble responsibly. Betting odds are subject to change as the game nears, so be sure to check the latest odds at one of our trusted betting apps!
Our Final Betting Prediction: Toronto covers. Florida might win, but it’s going to be another really close one!
Florida cannot afford to go down 3–0. They’ve kept things close, but close doesn’t really count in a best-of-seven. The pressure’s on to change the direction of the series. Toronto has exhibited impressive composure in close games and is able to capitalize on the pressure. Goaltending and special teams? They’ll be pivotal in Game 3. We are looking forward to another fast and super physical game.
- Watch how aggressive Florida gets in the first period—they need to come with it immediately.
- Special teams could tip the balance; both clubs have the tools to change momentum fast on the man advantage.
- Joseph Woll’s play has been really steady. If he holds up again, Toronto’s in position to put Florida on the brink.
Betting recap:
- Toronto +1.5 still feels like the right move
- Over 6 continues to cash
- Leafs aren’t backing down, and this one should go the distance again
