Tampa Bay Lightning vs Minnesota Wild Picks and Predictions for Tuesday March 3 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/03/2026, 12:20 AM ET
Use Code PPWC

The Tampa Bay Lightning travel to Saint Paul to face the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 PM at Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the game will be televised on TNT. At the time of this writing, the odds were not released. For more insight into tonight’s NHL action, be sure to check out our latest free NHL picks for additional expert selections.

Lightning Bring Elite Offense on the Road

Tampa Bay enters this contest with a 38-16-4 overall record and an outstanding 19-6-4 mark on the road. The Lightning recently lost to Buffalo 6-2 and Carolina 5-4 but picked up wins over Toronto 4-2, Florida 6-1, and Buffalo 4-3 in overtime. Despite a couple of recent setbacks, Tampa Bay remains one of the league’s most explosive teams.

The Lightning are averaging 3.53 goals per game while allowing just 2.60 goals against per contest. They generate 28.4 shots per game and limit opponents to 26.8 shots. Their ability to score efficiently while maintaining defensive structure has been a key factor in their success.

On special teams, Tampa Bay has scored 40 power play goals with a 21.9% conversion rate. Their penalty kill has been strong at 83.1%, allowing just 31 power play goals. Even with 838 penalty minutes on the season, they have managed to neutralize most opponent opportunities. Their offensive depth and defensive balance make them dangerous in any arena.

Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers

Subscribe Now

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Wild Looking to Protect Home Ice

Minnesota comes into this matchup at 35-16-10 overall and 17-7-7 at home. The Wild recently lost to St. Louis 3-1 and Utah 5-2 but earned wins over Colorado 5-2, Nashville 6-5 in overtime, and Montreal 4-3 in overtime. They have been competitive, particularly at home, where they play a more structured style.

The Wild are averaging 3.32 goals per game while allowing 2.88 goals against. They put up 28.9 shots per game but allow 30.4 shots per contest, meaning they sometimes rely on timely scoring and special teams to stay ahead.

Minnesota’s power play has been a major strength, producing 51 goals with a 25.8% success rate. However, their penalty kill sits at 77.4%, allowing 35 power play goals. Against a skilled Tampa Bay team, staying disciplined will be critical.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Minnesota Wild Pick

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Minnesota Wild Pick

  • Pick: Tampa Bay Lightning Moneyline

Tampa Bay’s combination of elite scoring and strong road play gives them the edge in this matchup. Minnesota is tough at home, but the Lightning’s ability to control games at even strength and capitalize on mistakes makes them the more reliable side. I trust Tampa Bay’s consistency here.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Minnesota Wild Total Pick

  • Pick: Over (if total is set at 6 or 6.5)

Both teams average well over three goals per game and feature dangerous power plays. With Minnesota allowing over 30 shots per contest and Tampa Bay capable of finishing efficiently, I expect plenty of scoring chances. I see this game pushing past the total.

Final Score Prediction: Lightning 4, Wild 3

This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Monday.

Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance

  • Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
  • If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
  • If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
  • Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.
BetMGM Sport

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Recommended BetMGM Sport Bonus
Min. Deposit $5
Cashable No
FanDuel Sportsbook

New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer FanDuel Sportsbook Bonus
Requirement New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days. (Up to $1,000 Bet Reset Tokens)
Cashable No
DraftKings Sport

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer DraftKings Sport Bonus
Min. Deposit $5
Odds Requirements -500
Cashable No
Video: World Cup: Mexico vs England BEST Bets & Predictions | July 5, 2026
World Cup: Mexico vs England BEST Bets & Predictions | July 5, 2026
Video: Brazil vs Norway: The Bet You AREN'T Thinking Of! | BEST World Cup Predictions | July 5, 2026
Brazil vs Norway: The Bet You AREN'T Thinking Of! | BEST World Cup Predictions | July 5, 2026
logo

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ WY). AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/MI/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Eligibility restrictions apply. T&C's Apply. Void where prohibited. If you click on a link on this site which takes you to a bookmaker or casino and you subsequently open an account, Pick and Parlays may receive a commission. Bets placed are the responsibility of the bettor.

Copyright © 2026 Picks and Parlays. All rights reserved.

The sports news and information contained at this site is for entertainment purposes only. Any use of this information in violation of laws whether they are federal, state and/or local is prohibited. Picks and Parlays is the nation's premier resource for sports betting and handicapping information.

Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Special Offer
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Play now Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.