The Canadiens are down 0-2 in the series and must take care of business in Game 3 tonight to avoid the dreaded 0-3 series deficit. The series has shifted to Montreal, so it is a slight -105 favorite on the Moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at O/U 5.5 goals and the goaltender matchup is the same as it has been for two games––Sam Montembeault vs. Logan Thompson.
Below, I’ve provided a quick preview and best bet on DraftKings Sportsbook for tonight’s Game 3 matchup between the Canadiens and Capitals.
Canadiens vs. Capitals Game 3 preview, prediction
There have only been nine combined goals across the first two games. Both Montembeault and Thompson have been stellar between the pipes and that trend will likely carry into Game 3 in Montreal. Montembeault has stopped 58-of-63 shots thus far but Montreal’s lack of offense outside of the top line has been noticeable. The Capitals have looked gassed in both third periods thus far but Montreal has failed to execute and Thompson has been very good.
With the series shifting to Montreal for the next two games, I feel good about the Canadiens’ chances for a bounceback game tonight. Over the final 12 home games of the season, Montreal won 10 of them, with both losses coming in a shootout. In that same span, the Capitals went 5-6-1. Game 1 went into overtime and the Canadiens have gone into overtime or a shootout 21 times this season. I’m expecting another low-scoring game and Montreal fans will play a big part tonight, especially if overtime ensues.
Canadiens vs. Capitals Game 3 pick, best bet
This feels similar to the Jets vs. Blues series. St. Louis was strong at home and finished the season strong, and Montreal is in a similar situation. The Capitals are clearly the better squad but have weaknesses and struggled on the road for the final stretch of the season. Habs fans are wild and Bell Centre will be buzzin’ to help the team to avoid going down 0-3 in the series.
