Predators vs. Lightning prediction: Why Tampa Bay is favored to win Sunday's NHL matchup [3/29/2026]

NHL action continues on Sunday at 5:00 PM ET as the Nashville Predators lock horns with the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena.

Based on the latest simulation results, Dimers' proven NHL model predicts the Lightning as the most likely winner of the Predators vs. Lightning game.

This article offers a closer look at Sunday's matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.

Predators vs. Lightning prediction: Who will win and cover?

Using trusted machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the result of Sunday's NHL game between the Predators and Lightning, forming part of our NHL predictions coverage.

Our leading predictive model currently gives the Lightning a 63% chance of beating the Predators.

According to our model, the Predators (+1.5) have a 58% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 6.5 goals has a 51% chance of staying under.

Predators vs. Lightning odds

We have researched the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

Bet Type	Predators	Lightning
Puck Line	+1.5 (-160)	-1.5 (+140)
Moneyline	+154	-176
Total	o6.5 (-108)	u6.5 (-105)

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Predators vs. Lightning picks and best bet

After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:

Bet Type	Pick	Bet Now
Puck Line	Lightning -1.5	+140
Moneyline	Lightning	-176
Total	Under 6.5	-105

According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Lightning -1.5 at the spread.

These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.

Predators vs. Lightning player props

Who will score a goal in Predators vs. Lightning?

According to our model, Jake Guentzel is most likely to score an anytime goal in Predators vs. Lightning.

Our projections give Guentzel a 48.1% chance of scoring a goal at Benchmark International Arena, while the star is a 10.1% chance of netting the first goal the game.

Anytime goal scorer predictions

Nashville Predators

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Filip Forsberg	36.0%
Steven Stamkos	30.2%
Jonathan Marchessault	22.0%
Ryan O'Reilly	20.8%
Matthew Wood	17.7%

Tampa Bay Lightning

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Jake Guentzel	48.1%
Brayden Point	45.2%
Brandon Hagel	38.2%
Anthony Cirelli	29.7%
Gage Goncalves	21.6%

First goal scorer predictions

Nashville Predators

Player	First Goal Probability
Filip Forsberg	7.0%
Steven Stamkos	5.9%
Jonathan Marchessault	3.1%
Roman Josi	3.1%
Matthew Wood	2.9%

Tampa Bay Lightning

Player	First Goal Probability
Jake Guentzel	10.1%
Brayden Point	9.4%
Brandon Hagel	7.5%
Anthony Cirelli	5.0%
Gage Goncalves	3.5%

Predators vs. Lightning game-day updates and essential details

Sunday's action between the Lightning and Predators at Benchmark International Arena is scheduled to start at 5:00 PM ET.

• Who: Nashville Predators vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
• Date: Sunday, March 29, 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM ET/2:00PM PT
• Venue: Benchmark International Arena

Conclusion

We predict the Lightning, with a 63% win probability, will likely beat the Predators on Sunday.

AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Predators vs. Lightning insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our responsible gambling hub.

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