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Montreal Canadiens vs Tampa Bay Lightning 12/28/25 NHL Free Pick

Alright, folks, we've got an exciting NHL matchup on our hands! The Montreal Canadiens are set to face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning in what promises to be a thrilling game. Let's dive into the pre-game analysis to see where the smart money might be.

First up, let's talk streaks. The Canadiens are coming into this game fresh off a victory, looking to build on that momentum. On the flip side, the Lightning are on fire with a three-game win streak, showing they mean business on home ice.

In terms of standings, both teams are sitting pretty near the top of the league. The Canadiens are currently in the 3rd position with 20 wins and 12 losses. They have been solid on the road with a 10-3 record but have been a bit shaky at home at 10-9. On the other hand, the Lightning are in 2nd place with 21 wins and 13 losses, boasting an impressive 11-4 away record.

Now, let's talk numbers. The Canadiens have a power rating of 109.96 with a win percentage of 0.541, while the Lightning hold a power rating of 123.09 with a win percentage of 0.556. The points differentials are close, with the Lightning edging out the Canadiens slightly.

Looking at the odds, the Lightning are the favorites in this matchup with a spread of -1.5 and odds of -198. On the other hand, the Canadiens are the underdogs with a spread of +1.5 and odds of +168. The moneyline reflects this with the Lightning at -150 and the Canadiens at +130.

The over/under is set at 6.0, indicating a potentially high-scoring game. Both teams have offensive firepower, so we could see some goal-scoring action in this one.

In conclusion, this game is shaping up to be a close one despite the Lightning's recent hot streak. The Canadiens will look to capitalize on their road record and pull off an upset, while the Lightning will aim to extend their winning streak. It's a game that could go either way, making it a must-watch for hockey fans and a tricky one for bettors. So, buckle up and get ready for some intense on-ice action!

The predicted final score is for the Montreal Canadiens to beat the home team Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3