NHL Predictions: Florida Panthers vs Carolina Hurricanes, September 29th

Last Word On Hockey previews the 2026-27 season opener between the Florida Panthers and the defending champion Carolina Hurricanes. Writer Dan Mount predicts the Hurricanes will secure a victory on opening night as they celebrate their Stanley Cup championship banner raising. Goaltender Brandon Bussi is expected to start for Carolina against Florida's projected starter, Jacob Markstrom.

Florida enters the season retooled after missing the postseason following an injury-ravaged campaign, with general manager Bill Zito acquiring Brady Tkachuk to play alongside his brother Matthew Tkachuk. Meanwhile, Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky retained most of the roster that won the Stanley Cup.