The October 28, 2025 matchup between the Anaheim Ducks and the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena brings together two franchises on very different timelines but equally motivated to prove themselves early in the NHL season. The Ducks, sitting at 4–3–1, have emerged as one of the league’s more intriguing young teams, blending youthful speed and offensive creativity with a growing sense of structure under head coach Greg Cronin. Their offense, featuring 29 goals scored in eight games, has shown promising balance, while their defense and goaltending—though improved—remain inconsistent, allowing an equal 29 goals against. Anaheim’s strength lies in its youth movement, with former top picks Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier quickly establishing themselves as foundational pieces. Carlsson’s poise with the puck and playmaking vision have drawn comparisons to established NHL stars, while Gauthier’s physicality and quick release give Anaheim a dual threat alongside more experienced forwards. Troy Terry continues to lead by example with his high motor and production, while Mason McTavish’s net-front presence has made him a reliable contributor in close games. Veteran leadership from players like Jakob Silfverberg and the addition of Chris Kreider have helped balance the locker room, giving the Ducks a mix of youthful flair and veteran calm. On the blue line, Cam Fowler and Jackson LaCombe have taken on larger roles, while Jacob Trouba’s veteran presence has provided much-needed grit and leadership. In net, Lukas Dostal has been a revelation, stepping up with a .913 save percentage through his last few starts, while John Gibson’s health and consistency continue to be closely monitored. For Anaheim to win in Sunrise, their formula is straightforward—capitalize on counterattack opportunities, maintain defensive discipline, and avoid penalty trouble against a Florida team that thrives on special teams. The Panthers, meanwhile, have started the season 5–5–0 overall but are 4–1–0 at home, illustrating how dominant they can be when feeding off the energy of their crowd.

Despite their .500 record, Florida remains one of the NHL’s most dangerous teams when engaged, powered by their relentless forecheck and deep offensive core. Aleksander Barkov remains the heartbeat of the team, excelling in both ends of the ice and setting the tone for their puck-possession dominance. Sam Reinhart has been the team’s most consistent scorer, while Matthew Tkachuk’s combination of grit, playmaking, and scoring touch continues to be a nightmare for opposing defenses. The Panthers’ defensive group, anchored by Aaron Ekblad and Gustav Forsling, remains physically imposing, though their overall defensive metrics have dipped early in the season due to occasional lapses in coverage. In goal, Sergei Bobrovsky has alternated between brilliance and inconsistency, carrying a save percentage just under .900 through his first several starts. Florida’s power play, operating near 23%, has been lethal at home, but their penalty kill remains average, something Anaheim’s quick-strike offense could exploit. The betting line reflects Florida’s slight edge at around -130, with a total of 6.5 goals suggesting moderate scoring potential. The key battle will be between Anaheim’s young transition game and Florida’s heavy, cycle-based attack. If the Ducks can withstand early pressure and find success off the rush, their speed could create matchup problems for the Panthers’ defense. Conversely, if Florida establishes zone control early and forces Anaheim into extended defensive shifts, their experience and physicality should carry the night. Expect a high-tempo, physical contest—one that pits Anaheim’s youthful exuberance against Florida’s tested veteran core, with special teams and goaltending likely serving as the deciding factors in what could become one of the more entertaining interconference matchups of the early season.