Lightning vs Golden Knights Prediction: NHL Odds, Preview (Tuesday, March 19)
David Becker/NHLI via Getty Images. Pictured: Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights.
Lightning vs Golden Knights Prediction, Odds
| Lightning Odds | +115 |
| Golden Knights Odds | -135 |
| Over / Under | 6.5 -105 / -115 |
Here's everything you need to know about the Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday, March 19 – our expert NHL prediction and pick.
The clash between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday night promises to be more than just a game — it's a narrative-rich encounter between two teams with distinct season-long trajectories, set against the backdrop of the electric atmosphere in Vegas.
This game presents a fascinating case study in analyzing advanced metrics, goaltending performances and the intangible elements of momentum and home-ice advantage involving two of the more recent Stanley Cup Champions.
The Lightning's season has been a tale of a major slump both offensively and in net, with their offensive stats (20th in Corsi, 25th in xG and 23rd in high-danger chances) reflecting a team that, while not dominating in shot attempts or quality chances, finds ways to win enough to stay relevant in this year’s playoff picture.
The defensive side tells a story of a more robust performance, however, ranking seventh in Corsi Against, 13th in xGA and ninth in high-danger chances against.
However, the focus must fall on Andrei Vasilevskiy, whose numbers this season — 47th in save percentage and GAA — are uncharacteristic of the high standards he's set in the past.
These statistics paint a picture of a team that has struggled to replicate its offensive prowess but remains competitive through tactical defense despite having goaltending concerns that need to be improved to make a serious run.
The Knights, meanwhile, present a balanced force, with their offense ranking 19th in Corsi and 17th in xG, alongside a middling 16th in high-danger chances. It's a testament to their ability to execute efficiently, even if not overwhelmingly.
Vegas has dealt with numerous injuries regarding its marquee players this season, which has contributed to the poor metrics.
Its defensive metrics (28th in Corsi Against, 14th in xG Against) show a team that's vulnerable, yet somewhat redeemed by Adin Hill's performance in goal, as he ranks seventh in save percentage and 17th in GAA.
Hill's presence since the Stanley Cup run last season has provided a backbone for a defense that often finds itself under pressure, showcasing the critical role goaltending plays in the modern NHL.
Lightning vs Golden Knights
Betting Pick & Prediction
Considering the statistical landscape and narrative threads weaving through this matchup, a bet on the Golden Knights moneyline at -135 emerges as the most compelling.
This recommendation hinges not just on the comparative solidity of Vegas' goaltending but also on the broader context of its season-long performance. Despite the defensive metrics suggesting vulnerability, Hill's standout performances offer a level of reassurance against a Lightning offense that has not been at its most potent.
Furthermore, the game being in Vegas adds an additional layer of advantage for the Golden Knights.
Home-ice can often tip the scales in tightly contested matchups, and for a team like Vegas that's known for its raucous home crowd and ability to capitalize on the energy in T-Mobile Arena, this factor cannot be overlooked.
Vegas is a completely different team at home (21-10-2), where they boast a decent record compared to on the road (15-14-5) this season. Tampa Bay experiences the same situation, as it's stout at home (21-9-4) yet fails to perform on the road (15-16-2).
Take the Golden Knights ML up to -140, and expect Vegas to snap Tampa Bay’s three-game winning streak tonight.
Pick: Golden Knights ML (-135 · Play to -140)
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