Tampa Bay Lightning vs Utah Hockey Club Prediction – 3/22/2025

The Tampa Bay Lightning are set to face the Utah Hockey Club on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time at the Delta Center. This matchup features two teams with contrasting recent performances, making it an intriguing contest for hockey enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Utah Hockey Club Game Preview

The Tampa Bay Lightning enter this game with a strong record of 40-23-5, having secured three consecutive victories. Their recent success includes wins against the Philadelphia Flyers and the Dallas Stars. The Lightning have been particularly effective since February 4, winning 13 of their last 17 games.

Offensively, Tampa Bay averages 3.49 goals per game, with a power play efficiency of 25.7%. Key contributors include Jake Guentzel, who leads the team with 33 goals, and Nikita Kucherov, who has amassed 67 assists. Brandon Hagel has also been instrumental, recording 196 shots on goal. Defensively, the Lightning allow 2.63 goals per game and maintain a penalty kill success rate of 82.1%. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy has been a cornerstone, allowing 119 goals on 1,479 shots faced.

In contrast, the Utah Hockey Club holds a 31-27-11 record. They recently snapped a losing streak with a 5-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. However, consistency has been elusive, as they have not secured back-to-back wins since late February.

Utah's offense averages 2.83 goals per game, with a power play success rate of 22.5%. Dylan Guenther leads the team with 25 goals, while Clayton Keller has contributed 52 assists. Nick Schmaltz has added depth with 154 shots on goal. Defensively, the team allows 2.96 goals per game and has a penalty kill rate of 80.8%. Goaltender Karel Vejmelka has conceded 111 goals on 1,207 shots faced.

Betting Insights

For bettors analyzing this game, several trends and statistics are noteworthy:

• The Lightning have won five of their last six games against Central Division opponents.
• Utah has lost four of its last five home games against Atlantic Division opponents.
• Utah has failed to cover the puck line in each of its last four games following a win.
• The Lightning have covered the puck line in each of their last four games following a road win.
• Utah has lost the third period in each of its last four games as an underdog following a win.

These trends suggest a potential advantage for the Lightning, especially considering their recent form and Utah's struggles against Atlantic Division teams.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Utah Hockey Club Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Tampa Bay Lightning appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their potent offense, led by Kucherov and Guentzel, combined with a solid defensive unit anchored by Vasilevskiy, positions them favorably against a Utah team that has struggled with consistency.

While Utah's recent win over the Sabres is a positive sign, their inability to string together consecutive victories and their challenges against teams from the Atlantic Division raise concerns. Additionally, the Lightning's impressive record against Central Division opponents further bolsters their case.

Given these factors, the prediction leans towards a Tampa Bay Lightning victory. Bettors might consider the Lightning on the moneyline, and given the defensive strengths of both teams, the under on total goals could also be a prudent choice.

As always, it's essential to monitor any last-minute lineup changes or injuries that could impact the game's outcome. Engaging in responsible betting practices is crucial, and staying informed will enhance the betting experience.

For more on today's game check out the comprehensive statistics, betting odds, and trends below. Be sure to check out all our free NHL picks here.