After a 5-2 victory against Florida, the Buffalo Sabres are riding high on momentum as they prepare to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, their second back-to-back game. Despite some inconsistency in their offensive performance, the 1-3-0 Buffalo team has shown promising signs. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has faced some challenges, with a save percentage of just .886, and their power play has yet to score. However, the Sabres’ defense, which ranks ninth in the NHL and allows only 27 shots per game, is a strong point that bettors can look forward to.
Sean Monahan and Zach Werenski have been instrumental in Columbus’s improved offensive performance, which has resulted in a 4.0 goal-per-game average. However, they do have the worst penalty kill in the league at 57.1% and a fragile defense, allowing 3.5 goals per game. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins has also been troubled by the 3.68 goals-against average.
Despite being exhausted after playing two games in as many days, Buffalo’s better penalty-killing unit and tighter defense could give them a significant advantage. Their ability to defend against power plays and limit the opponent’s scoring opportunities could be crucial in this game. Due to their poor penalty kill and goaltending issues, Columbus is at risk of losing.
Put your money on the Sabres winning.