Stanley Cup Final Game 3 - Betting tips and picks for Colorado Avalanche-Tampa Bay Lightning

On Monday night, the Stanley Cup Final will head to Tampa Bay, as the two-time defending champion Tampa Bay Lightning will try to avoid a 3-0 series hole. Why are they in this position? Well, the Western Conference champion Colorado Avalanche won Game 2 by a football-score-sized 7-0.

Catch all of the action on ABC and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET Monday. In fact, ESPN+ will have real-time stats right on the screen and bonus camera angles, making it easier to track your player props.

But for now, let's check out the top picks from our betting insiders.

Puck line: Tampa Bay -1.5Moneyline: Tampa Bay (-115), Colorado (-105)Total: 6

Greg Wyshynski, senior NHL writer: First period, Over 1.5 goals (-120)

This hit in the first two games of the series in Denver. The low price here is because the Lightning haven't had a first period over at home since Game 3 against the Panthers. Overall, they've only gone over in the first in three of eight home games. The Avalanche have gone over in the first in 10 of 16 games, although that's a bit inflated by the four straight they had against the Predators in the first round. They've only gone over in four road games. Still, given their offensive roll and the Lightning's desperation, that's a recipe to clear this total in the first, especially if things go sideways for Tampa Bay for a third straight game.

Anita Marks, ESPN sports betting analyst: Colorado money line (-105), Colorado vs. Tampa Bay Under 6, Colorado Series sweep (+250)

Colorado is just too good. We are witnessing utter dominance, especially in Game 2. The Avalanche are 14-2 in the playoffs and undefeated on the road. Their speed and defense, particularly their blue line, has been killer. Colorado is three for seven in power plays this