- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Carolina (22-9-3) at Tampa Bay (18-13-3)
- When: Dec 20 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, FL, USA
- TV: The Spot
Carolina vs Tampa Bay NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Tampa Bay -117
Spread: Tampa Bay -1.5 (+215)
Total: 5.5
Tampa Bay Lightning Betting Breakdown
Tampa Bay has been the definition of hot and cold this season, and right now the thermostat is not in their favor. After ripping off a dominant midseason run that included 15 wins in 18 games, the Lightning have slid back into shaky territory. They enter this matchup on a three game skid and have struggled at Amalie Arena, sitting below .500 on home ice.
The latest setback came in a tight 2-1 loss to Los Angeles, a game that perfectly summed up Tampa Bay’s recent issues. Key absences and in game attrition continue to pile up, forcing Jon Cooper to shuffle lines and lean on depth pieces. When healthy, this roster has shown it can control games with speed and puck movement, but consistency has vanished over the past two weeks.
The betting angle here comes down to urgency. Tampa Bay is not built to stay down long, especially at home. With a low total on the board, the Lightning will look to tighten defensively, simplify their attack, and grind out a result rather than chase offense. That approach favors them in a bounce back spot.
Carolina Hurricanes Betting Breakdown
Carolina arrives in Tampa off a frustrating loss that snapped a five game winning streak. The Hurricanes controlled most of their previous outing before letting a two goal third period lead slip away, ultimately losing in a shootout. That collapse is uncharacteristic for a team that prides itself on structure and details.
Despite the stumble, Carolina remains one of the most reliable defensive teams in the East. Sebastian Aho continues to drive the offense, and Jordan Staal has provided steady leadership and timely scoring. However, concerns are mounting after a key injury in overtime, which could thin out Carolina’s forward depth in an already demanding road back to back situation.
Goaltending has been a strength all season, and Carolina is comfortable playing low event hockey. Still, fatigue and emotional letdown often show up in the second game of a back to back, especially on the road.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
This sets up as a tight, playoff style matchup. Tampa Bay is desperate to stop the bleeding and has the advantage of rest and home ice. Carolina remains dangerous but may not be at full strength or full energy.
Score Prediction: Lightning 3, Hurricanes 2
Pick: Tampa Bay (-117)
Total: Under 5.5 (-115)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
