Lightning vs. Canadiens odds, prediction, time: 2026 NHL playoff picks, Game 3 best bets from proven model

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens are set to meet in Game 3 of their 2026 NHL Stanley Cup playoff first-round series. SportsLine's predictive model has released its picks and best bets for the matchup. The game represents a critical juncture in the series, with both teams competing for an advantage in the best-of-seven playoff format.