Tampa Bay vs Nashville: NHL Match Preview and Prediction
On October 8, Tampa Bay will host Nashville in a preseason rematch. In their previous encounter, the Lightning suffered a heavy 0-6 defeat and will aim to bounce back at home. The Predators have not been performing well on the road. Will the home team capitalize on this opportunity? Find the answer in our preview, which also includes the most relevant betting options.

Command Analysis

Tampa Bay Lightning

Current Form
The preseason for the Tampa Bay Lightning has been less than ideal. In six matches, the team secured only two victories, both against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, with scores of 8-7 and 3-1. In their third matchup against the Panthers, Cooper's squad had every chance to succeed, but their inability to convert scoring opportunities led to a defeat in overtime with a final score of 1-2. Following that, the Lightning faced the Carolina Hurricanes, where they also put up a strong fight but again failed to capitalize on their chances, resulting in another overtime loss, this time 1-2 OT.
Overall, the Lightning's performance during preseason cannot be labeled as a failure. The team competed well against its rivals, suffering losses primarily in overtime or by a narrow margin of one goal.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Tampa Bay averages 2.3 goals per game
- The Lightning average 23 shots on goal per game

Nashville Predators

Current Form
Nashville ended its winning streak after facing Carolina, suffering a 5-3 defeat. The Predators struggled defensively once again, and this time their offensive line couldn't make up for it. Interestingly, goaltender Saros had a solid first period, not allowing a single goal, but his replacement, Vejvoda, performed poorly. The team was active offensively, reflected in their 43 shots on goal. Overall, the Predators have been showcasing an attacking style this preseason, consistently scoring high numbers which helped them secure wins against the Hurricanes 6-4 and the Lightning 6-0.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Nashville allows an average of 3.6 goals per game
- The Predators average 13 minutes of penalty time per game
Trends
Bet First Goal: "Tampa Bay"
In four out of six matchups, "Tampa Bay" scored the first goal
1.78Bet Goal in Every Period - Yes
In four out of six matchups, both teams scored in every period
1.45Tip and bets
Tampa Bay is determined to bounce back after their heavy loss to Nashville. The Lightning will field their strongest lineup in the final preseason game, and playing at home should give the team an added advantage. As previously mentioned, Nashville has struggled on the road, recently suffering a defeat to Carolina. We believe the Lightning can exploit their opponent's defensive weaknesses and fully utilize their offensive capabilities, leading them to victory.
Our prediction is a win for Tampa Bay at 2.13
Over/Under Bet
Nashville primarily focuses on its offense, often finding success on that front. However, the team struggles defensively, leading to high-scoring matches. This is why we're predicting an over bet.
Prediction - total over 5.5 goals at 1.69
First Period Outcome Bet
The first period has been one of Nashville's strongest points. The team doesn’t allow opponents to dominate and often gains the upper hand in the early minutes.
Prediction - Nashville to win or draw in the first period at 1.50