Canadiens @ Lightning: Game Preview, Start Time, Tale of the Tape, and How to Watch

Tonight’s NHL action brings us an exciting matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena. Fans from both teams are eager to see how this game unfolds, given the recent performances and the stakes involved.

**Game Preview:**
The Canadiens, currently navigating through a challenging season, are looking to turn things around. With a record of 26-35-6, Montreal is out of the playoff picture but remains focused on building momentum for next season. Key players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield will be crucial for the Canadiens, as they aim to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent.

On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Lightning, with a solid 39-24-6 record, are in a much stronger position. They are fighting to secure a favorable spot in the playoffs. Led by stars like Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point, the Lightning have the firepower to dominate any game. Their recent form, however, has been inconsistent, making tonight’s game a must-win for them.

**Start Time and How to Watch:**
The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM ET. Fans can catch the action live on RDS, TSN2, or stream it through ESPN+. For those unable to watch, live updates will be available on the official X accounts of both teams, providing real-time scores and highlights.

**Tale of the Tape:**
**Montreal Canadiens:**
– Record: 26-35-6
– Goals For: 173
– Goals Against: 231
– Power Play: 17.6%
– Penalty Kill: 75.4%

**Tampa Bay Lightning:**
– Record: 39-24-6
– Goals For: 238
– Goals Against: 213
– Power Play: 28.5%
– Penalty Kill: 82.0%

**What You Need to Know:**
As the Canadiens face off against the Lightning, fans should keep an eye on the special teams’ play. Tampa Bay’s power play is one of the best in the league, and it could be a deciding factor in tonight’s game. Montreal will need to be disciplined and effective on the penalty kill to stand a chance.
Additionally, goaltending will play a significant role. Samuel Montembeault has been solid for the Canadiens, while Andrei Vasilevskiy remains one of the top goalies in the NHL for the Lightning. The battle between the pipes could very well determine the outcome of this contest.

**Prediction, Picks & Odds:**
Oddsmakers have the Tampa Bay Lightning as the favorites with a moneyline of -250, while the Montreal Canadiens are the underdogs at +205. The over/under for the game is set at 6.5 goals.
Given the current form and the home advantage, the prediction leans towards a Lightning victory. However, the Canadiens have shown flashes of brilliance this season and could pull off an upset if they play a disciplined and aggressive game.

Expect a high-scoring affair, with the Lightning likely to edge out the Canadiens 4-2. Betting on the over could be a smart move, given both teams’ offensive capabilities.