Montreal Canadiens vs Tampa Bay Lightning Betting Pick & Prediction for Game 7 on 5/3

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Game 7 is here in the NHL Playoffs, and it’s a big one. The series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning is tied at 3-3. This game takes place at Benchmark International Arena on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Fans can catch the action on TNT.

The Canadiens, coached by Martin St. Louis, are part of the Eastern Conference and Atlantic Division. They have a postseason record of 3-3, with a recent loss. On the other side, the Lightning, led by Jon Cooper, also have a 3-3 record in the playoffs. They come off a win and aim to take advantage of their home ice. Both teams are ready for a tough battle.

Canadiens vs Lightning Game Day Info

  • Sport: NHL
  • Teams: Montreal Canadiens vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
  • Venue: Benchmark International Arena
  • Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
  • Betting Odds: Tampa Bay Lightning MoneyLine -157, Montreal Canadiens MoneyLine +134

Montreal Canadiens Team Preview

The Montreal Canadiens have shown a mixed performance in their recent games against the Tampa Bay Lightning. They have two wins and three losses in their last five games. Their most recent game ended in a 1-0 loss, where they managed 30 shots on goal but could not score.

Jakub Dobes has been solid in the net for the Canadiens. Over six games, he has secured three wins with 153 saves and allowed 14 goals. Although he has not recorded a shutout, his performance remains strong.

The Canadiens have been active on the ice with their physical play. They rank second in hits with 257 and first in blocks with 112 during the postseason. Players like Nick Suzuki and Juraj Slafkovsky have contributed to their efforts with strong defensive play and scoring.

Tampa Bay Lightning Team Preview

The Tampa Bay Lightning have had some tight games in their recent postseason. They secured a 1-0 win against the Montreal Canadiens in Game 6. Gage Goncalves scored the only goal, and Andrei Vasilevskiy made 30 saves to keep a clean sheet.

In Game 5, the Lightning faced a narrow 3-2 loss at home. Despite 40 shots on goal, they couldn’t take the lead. Jake Guentzel and Dominic James each scored a goal in that game.

Brandon Hagel has been a standout player in the postseason with six goals in six games. He also contributed with two assists. Andrei Vasilevskiy, the goaltender, has been solid with three wins and 133 saves so far.

BTB Betting Pick

For the moneyline pick, go with the Tampa Bay Lightning at -157. They are the favorites and need a win after losing their first-round game. Montreal won their first game, but Tampa Bay’s overall stats suggest they have a strong chance to win.

For the over/under pick, take the Under 5.5 at -157. Both teams have shown solid defense with only 14 goals against each in the postseason. The projected score is Tampa Bay 3, Montreal 2, which supports this pick.