Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction, Odds, NHL Picks [1/18/2024]

NHL action continues on Thursday at 7:00PM ET as the Minnesota Wild take on the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena.

Dimers.com's in-depth betting preview for Thursday's Wild vs. Lightning matchup includes the latest betting odds, as well as our predictions and picks for the game.

Wild vs. Lightning Prediction: Who Will Win, Cover the Spread

We have used trusted machine learning and statistics to simulate the result of Thursday's NHL game between the Wild and Lightning 10,000 times, in keeping with our coverage of NHL predictions.

Our popular predictive analytics model currently gives the Lightning a 56% chance of beating the Wild.

According to our model, the Wild (+1.5) have a 65% chance of covering the puck line, while the Over/Under total of 6.5 goals has a 53% chance of going under.

Today's Minnesota vs. Tampa Bay betting preview is proudly sponsored by BetMGM Sportsbook, which has a tasty Bet $5, Get $158 in Bonus Bets promo for new customers.

Wild vs. Lightning Odds

We have sourced the best betting odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

Bet Type	Wild	Lightning
Puck Line	+1.5 (-210)	-1.5 (+170)
Moneyline	+122	-135
Total	o6.5 (-104)	u6.5 (-105)

• The Lightning are -1.5 favorites versus the Wild, with +170 at BetMGM Sportsbook the best odds currently available.
• For the underdog Wild (+1.5) to cover the puck line, BetMGM also has the best odds currently on offer at -210.
• BetMGM currently has the best moneyline odds for the Lightning at -135, which means you can risk $135 to win $100 for a total payout of $235 if they get the W.
• FanDuel Sportsbook currently has the best moneyline odds for the Wild at +122, where you can bet $100 to profit $122, earning a total payout of $222 if they win.
• The Over/Under for total goals scored sits at 6.5 with FanDuel, which currently has the best odds for the Over at -104, while DraftKings Sportsbook currently has the best odds for the Under at -105.

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

As always, check out the sportsbooks you can bet with in your state for the best NHL odds and lines.

Wild vs. Lightning Picks

By comparing our probabilities to the odds listed above, we have found the best betting picks to place on this game:

Bet Type	Our Pick	Best Odds
Puck Line	Lightning -1.5	+170
Moneyline	Wild	+122
Total	Under 6.5	-105

Although the Wild are more likely to cover the puck line, our best bet of Lightning -1.5 is based on the expectation of that happening, when compared to the top odds available.

And while the Lightning are more likely to win the game, taking the Wild moneyline is the best option because of the edge found when comparing our data-led probabilities to the sportsbooks' odds currently on offer.

Taking advantage of the edges published on Dimers is pivotal to achieving long-term profitability.

Dimers' NHL best bets are based on detailed simulations and betting intelligence to serve you the best possible plays every day of the year.

Wild vs. Lightning Player Props

Who will score the first goal in Wild vs. Lightning?

According to our model, Tampa Bay's Brayden Point is most likely to score the first goal in Wild vs. Lightning.

Our projections give Point a 9.4% chance of scoring the first goal at Amalie Arena, while the Lightning star is a 43.2% chance of netting an anytime goal.

First Goal Scorer Predictions

Minnesota Wild

Player	First Goal Probability
Matt Boldy	7.6%
Kirill Kaprizov	7.0%
Joel Ek	4.8%
Ryan Hartman	4.5%
Mats Zuccarello	4.4%

Tampa Bay Lightning

Player	First Goal Probability
Brayden Point	9.4%
Nikita Kucherov	8.0%
Steven Stamkos	7.1%
Brandon Hagel	5.1%
Anthony Cirelli	3.4%

Anytime Goal Scorer Predictions

Minnesota Wild

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Kirill Kaprizov	37.8%
Matt Boldy	36.0%
Joel Ek	26.7%
Ryan Hartman	25.3%
Mats Zuccarello	23.3%

Tampa Bay Lightning

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Brayden Point	43.2%
Nikita Kucherov	37.8%
Steven Stamkos	36.8%
Brandon Hagel	26.6%
Nick Paul	20.4%
Don't forget, our model updates often, so refresh this article for the latest betting insights ahead of the Wild vs. Lightning on Thursday January 18, 2024.

Wild vs. Lightning Game Information

Thursday's matchup between the Lightning and Wild at Amalie Arena is scheduled to start at 7:00PM ET.

• Who: Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
• Date: Thursday January 18, 2024
• Time: 7:00PM ET / 4:00PM PT
• Venue: Amalie Arena

Our full betting coverage of Wild vs. Lightning includes pregame predictions, betting picks, and live scores.

How to Bet on Wild vs. Lightning

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Conclusion

This preview article has been partially generated using automated processes and AI technology. Our goal is to provide timely and accurate updates on Thursday's Wild vs. Lightning clash, and automation assists in data collection, analysis, and formatting. Human editing and quality control are performed to ensure the content meets our editorial standards.

Dimers' predictions are made after 10,000 simulations per game, using reliable and up-to-date data sources and analytical methods. While our Wild vs. Lightning picks can help you make informed decisions, it's vital that you gamble responsibly and manage your bankroll effectively.

For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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