San Jose Sharks (0-5-1) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (3-2-2)
San Jose Sharks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning 10/26/23 – The San Jose Sharks have had an inconsistent start to the season, yet are set to play Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena. While San Jose remains winless, Tampa looks to add wins. This early-season showdown promises top hockey tips considering both teams have had different experiences thus far.
Tomas Hertl and Fabian Zetterlund have led the Sharks’ offensive charge this season, yet have struggled for consistency scoring; Hertl is leading with 5 points in 6 games while Zetterlund holds an outstanding 15.4% shooting percentage and Thomas Bordeleau have also shown well against an inconsistent Lightning defense that has displayed flashes of brilliance at times.
On the flip side, Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point’s offense has been impressively potent for the Lightning. Kucherov boasts an exceptional 21.4% shooting percentage while Point’s ability to assist has been key to their success; such potency might just take advantage of Sharks’ poor defensive line play.
San Jose Sharks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning 10/26/23 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Amalie Arena |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood vs. Goaltender Jonas Johansson
Mackenzie Blackwood, the primary netminder for the Sharks, has had a difficult start to his season. Through four appearances he’s recorded an unsettling 3.47 goals against average; yet, it is important to recognize his save percentage of 0.914; an indication of all 162 shots directed his way. Despite the high goals against average, Blackwood has made 148 saves despite facing such intense attacks; perhaps more tellingly it may indicate issues within his team rather than with individual performances; when going up against rival Lightning Blackwood will play an integral part in holding off any potency offensive threats by holding off such onslaughts!
Jonas Johansson of the Tampa Bay Lightning stands in stark contrast with Blackwood. After 6 games played, his GAA is more respectable at 2.99 goals against per game while his save percentage over 216 shots faced is slightly better at 0.917 than Blackwood. Johansson’s recent form combined with Tampa’s consistent offensive power presents a challenge to Sharks goaltender Martin Jones; yet Johansson has come through time after time when it matters most; making clutch saves to secure points for his team against them both times – it all depends on him to continue being composed performances so his team can pull ahead to victory!
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Lightning -300, Total Odds: 6.5
NHL odds provide a clear depiction of perceived strengths for each team, with Tampa Bay Lightning being heavy favorites at -300 moneylines. Such an enormous negative moneyline indicates bookmakers’ faith in the Lightning’s ability to secure victory, given their impressive track record and recent performances. On the other hand, total odds are set at 6.5, suggesting bookmakers expect a moderately high-scoring affair. Given the history and offensive capabilities of both teams, this total suggests an exciting matchup that could feature goals galore. Bettors should keep in mind that while Lightning offers lower odds than its opponent, its payout potential may also be lower, making total goals an appealing target to focus on.
San Jose Sharks Betting Trends
The Sharks have seen four out of their last six games go UNDER the total scoreline, reflecting their recent form which sees them lose 10 straight. Their history against the Lightning hasn’t been kind either; with six victories out of seven encounters against Eastern Conference opponents (1-6 record overall). Furthermore, games played in Tampa tend to feature high scoring action with four of five total scoring matches going OVER over time.
Tampa Bay Lightning Betting Trends
The Lightning are not at their dominant best yet have managed to notch six wins out of 18 matches this year. High-scoring games appear to be their forte with 8 of 10 matchups against the Sharks going OVER their total and four home matches going over as well. Western Conference opponents have proven formidable, going OVER in 5 of 7 matchups between them and The Lightning.
San Jose Sharks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning 10/26/23 Betting Picks
Given recent analysis and betting trends, it appears that the Tampa Bay Lightning have an edge against the underachieving San Jose Sharks. Their strong offense paired with San Jose’s dismal form point towards a possible Lightning win.
Due to a longstanding tradition of high-scoring games between these teams, particularly in Tampa, bettors may find some value in betting the over. As premium top picks go, backing the Lightning for victory while taking an OVER total looks like an excellent wager.
Free Pick and Prediction: Tampa Bay Lightning 5, San Jose Sharks 2.