Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 02/25/26

The NHL is back and brings us eight exciting matchups, including a battle between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning. These Atlantic Division teams have played just once this season, in a 2-0 Toronto win. How will this one play out? Here is our Maple Leafs vs. Lightning prediction.

This is a star-studded matchup, but key pieces to Toronto’s lineup is in question. While he is expected to play, Auston Matthews’ availability is in question due to a busy schedule and possible rest requirements after his Olympic gold medal win on Sunday. John Tavares (illness) could also see himself out of the lineup. Meanwhile, Brayden Point returns to the Lightning lineup, along with Victor Hedman who was injured during the Olympics. While Tampa Bay boasts the better roster regardless if Matthews and Tavares suit up, Toronto was on an absolute heater before the Olympics, with a three-game winning streak. Make no mistake, the Maple Leafs will have a tough time securing a victory on the road  against this powerhouse, but their momentum and playoff desire should propel a good effort. The time is now if Toronto wants to salvage their season, and with a win against the Lightning already this season, they should be able to at least keep this one close. For our Maple Leafs vs. Lightning prediction, take Toronto’s +1.5 puck line.

Maple Leafs vs. Lightning prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs +1.5 (-140) available at time of publishing. Playable at that line to (-150).

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