6 hours ago
1
The Battle of Florida is getting nasty.
The Panthers took a 2-0 series lead with their win by the same scoreline in Game 2 on Thursday, but the main story from that contest was the injury to Aleksander Barkov.
Florida’s captain was clocked by Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel away from the puck, leading to speculation that the Panthers could be without Barkov for Game 3 and beyond.
Paul Maurice was mum on Barkov’s status after Game 2, so it’s unlikely that we’ll have a firm idea of whether or not the talismanic Finn will be in the lineup on Saturday afternoon.
Nonetheless, the Cats are a -138 favorite to win Game 3.
Bet365 bonus code NYPBET for the Stanley Cup Playoffs
Looking to bet on the Stanley Cup playoffs? Take advantage of this Bet365 bonus code NYPBET and get a $150 bonus for placing a $5 bet, win or lose.
Lightning vs. Panthers Game 3 betting preview
The way the first two games of this best-of-7 series have played out has caught everyone completely off guard.
It shouldn’t be a shock that Florida is playing well – they are the defending champs, after all – but what is surprising is how one-note the Lightning have looked through 120 minutes of play.
Florida’s Matthew Tkachuk has two goals and an assist in this series so far. NHLI via Getty ImagesTampa Bay was in terrific form down the stretch, and shored up its depth at the deadline, leading plenty of fans, bettors, and pundits to declare the Bolts the team to beat in the Eastern Conference.
The hype machine has completely cooled off after two disappointing losses to their in-state rival.
Lightning vs. Panthers Game 3 pick
Game 3 of the Battle of Florida presents a classic handicapping question.
Is the market overreacting to a small sample size? Or, was the hockey world overestimating their chances to dispatch the defending champions coming into this best-of-7 series?
With Barkov’s status uncertain, I’ll lean towards the former and put my trust in the Lightning to find their form in the nick of time.
The Play: Lightning (+115, Bet365)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan, but a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry. He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports.
New customers only, 21+ (18+ in KY). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in AZ, CO, NJ, IA, KY, IN, LA, NC, VA, OH only. Bet $5 and Get $150 in Bonus Bets at bet365. Registration required. A deposit (minimum $10) is required to participate in this offer. You must claim the offer via the bet365 app, within 30 days of registering your account. Once released, your Bonus Bets will be held in your account balance and are non-withdrawable.T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.
English (US)