New York at Carolina

New York has struggled defensively in the playoffs, allowing the third-most goals (3.88) of the 16 teams, as well as the most shots on goal given up. The Rangers are 15-37 as a playoff underdog after losing Game 1, 2-1. And after being first in the regular season defensively, Carolina is fourth in the playoffs. Carolina was also fifth in save percentage, first in shots on goal surrendered, and the offense was top 10 in goals scored and shots on goal. By contrast, New York was 28th during the regular season in shots on goal and 16th in goals scored. Carolina is a sizzling 19-3 at home after allowing two goals or fewer in two consecutive contests, 42-14 at home versus teams that average 29.5+ shots on goal, plus 25-11 against starting goalies that have a save percentage of 91.5 or better. New York has lost four of the last five in this building, so back home ice again. Play Carolina.