Ray Monohan Sports Handicapper from Cappers Picks

Lightning -105

We're on the Lightning in Game 3 as it seems all like a must win for this side. Tampa Bay lost both road games by 1 goal as they're right there in this series. They have matched the intensity and are one or two lucky bounces going their way from having this series completely flipped. Still, they will have a ton of confidence with the home crowd here. The Lightning was one of the best offensive teams all season long, as they averaged 3.5 gpg. They played particularly well at home as well during the regular season, which should add to them coming into this game with some confidence. The Lightning will play with much more aggression here too. This is basically a do or die game and we've seen teams in the NHL Playoffs in the past come out and make a statement in Game 3. They are right in this series and will lean on their offensive firepower to be the difference in this one. Grab the home side at this price.

Thursday 9* NHL ML Play

UNDER 8

The Yanks and A’s have value on this under. Both of these teams play in the series finale which is a night game on getaway day. Nestor Cortes gets the ball for the Yankees and he looked like his old self last time out. The LH threw 7.0 shutout innings against the Rays, while striking out 9. He’s taking on a weak Oakland lineup that has struggled mightily this year producing runs. On the other side, Alex Wood gets the ball for Oakland and he can produce some swings and misses against this lineup. New York has been over aggressive as of late and it’s resulted in some bad at bats for this lineup. Wood will need to work on his off speed pitches more to keep this lineup off balanced. This is a good line on this under. Given the situational factor of it being a night series finale, we’re going to see many quick innings and much more aggressive hitters.

Thursday 8* MLB O/U Play

76ers -5.5

We're on the 76ers here in Game 3 on Thursday night. Phili blew Game 2 in dramatic fashion as they were unable to hold a 5 point lead late. Joel Embiid was visibly upset following the loss and made a point to say in the locker room that they're still going to win this series. Despite the loss, they can still take away something from the game as they can beat this New York team. They're going to have the home crowd behind them here too, so a quick start can do a lot for this Phili side. The 76ers need to lean on their defense and force the Knicks into some tough shots. They ranked 9th in the NBA in total defense during the regular season and they are at their best when they force tough shots and turnovers. This is a game where they know they need to come out and make a statement. They're the better team with their depth and they will show that here in Game 2. Back the home side.

Thursday 7* NBA ATS Play