The Carolina Hurricanes enter their March 20, 2025, matchup against the San Jose Sharks as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, boasting an impressive record that keeps them firmly in contention for a high playoff seed. With their structured defensive system, potent offensive attack, and elite goaltending, Carolina has been a model of consistency this season. They have also been one of the best teams against the spread (ATS), covering in four of their last five games. Facing a struggling San Jose team that has covered in only one of their last five games, the Hurricanes have a clear advantage in this matchup. Additionally, Carolina has dominated this series in recent years, covering the spread in four of their last five meetings with the Sharks. Offensively, the Hurricanes have been one of the most well-rounded teams in the NHL. Their attack is not dependent on just one or two players, but rather a deep, balanced lineup capable of generating offense from all four lines. Sebastian Aho leads the team in points, continuing his role as one of the most dynamic two-way centers in the league. His ability to contribute offensively while remaining defensively responsible makes him one of the Hurricanes’ most valuable players. Alongside him, Andrei Svechnikov has provided a strong net-front presence, utilizing his physicality and scoring touch to create high-danger chances. Teuvo Teravainen and Seth Jarvis have also been major contributors, adding to a forward group that is difficult to shut down. One of the biggest advantages Carolina has in this game is their ability to control puck possession. The Hurricanes rank among the top teams in the NHL in Corsi and expected goals percentage, metrics that measure a team’s ability to generate scoring chances while limiting their opponents. Against a San Jose team that has struggled defensively and frequently gets outshot, Carolina’s ability to dominate possession should allow them to dictate the pace of play. If they can establish an early lead, it could be difficult for the Sharks to generate enough offense to mount a comeback. Defensively, the Hurricanes continue to be one of the best teams in the league at limiting high-danger scoring chances. Their defensive corps, anchored by Jaccob Slavin and Brent Burns, has been excellent at shutting down opposing top lines while also contributing offensively. Slavin’s elite defensive awareness and positioning allow him to neutralize the opposition’s best forwards, while Burns provides a strong shot from the point and valuable leadership experience.

Carolina’s defensive depth has also been a key factor in their success, with multiple reliable pairings capable of maintaining defensive stability throughout the game. Goaltending has been another strong suit for Carolina this season. Frederik Andersen has been outstanding in net, posting a save percentage above .920 and a goals-against average under 2.50. His ability to make key saves in crucial moments has given Carolina confidence in tight games. If Andersen gets the start against San Jose, he will likely face a manageable workload, given the Sharks’ struggles to generate consistent offense. If backup Antti Raanta starts, the Hurricanes still have a capable goaltender who can provide solid minutes against a weaker opponent. Special teams could be a deciding factor in this game. Carolina’s power play has been efficient, ranking in the top third of the league. They have multiple scoring threats on the man advantage, with Aho and Burns leading the unit. On the penalty kill, the Hurricanes have been elite, successfully killing over 83% of opposing power plays. This could be a significant problem for San Jose, whose power play has been among the worst in the NHL. If the Hurricanes stay disciplined and avoid unnecessary penalties, they should have no trouble neutralizing San Jose’s special teams. From a betting standpoint, Carolina is one of the strongest teams to back in this matchup. They have covered the spread in four of their last five games, while San Jose has covered in only one of their last five. Furthermore, the Hurricanes have won and covered the spread in four of their last five meetings with the Sharks, further highlighting their dominance in this matchup. These trends suggest that Carolina not only has a strong chance of winning but also of covering the spread, making them a solid pick for bettors looking for value. Ultimately, this game presents an opportunity for Carolina to continue their strong season and further solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings. Their well-structured defensive play, depth scoring, and elite goaltending make them the clear favorites against a struggling Sharks team. If the Hurricanes play their game, maintain puck possession, and take advantage of their superior special teams, they should be able to secure a comfortable victory. The biggest challenge for Carolina in this matchup may simply be avoiding complacency against an inferior opponent. However, given their recent form and playoff aspirations, they are unlikely to take this game lightly. Expect the Hurricanes to come out strong and continue their dominant run against San Jose.