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Washington Capitals at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Washington Capitals at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Washington Capitals (37-30-11) visit the Buffalo Sabres (37-37-5) Thursday evening. Puck drop from KeyBank Center is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals snapped a 6-game losing streak with a 2-1 road win over the Detroit Red Wings Tuesday. LW Alex Ovechkin and C Dylan Strome each found the back of the net for the Capitals in the 2nd period to give them a 2-0 lead, and a 3rd-period goal from Detroit was not enough to complete the comeback.

The Sabres have lost back-to-back games after falling 3-2 against the Dallas Stars Tuesday. RW Alex Tuch and D Rasmus Dahlin each scored for Buffalo in the 1st period, but a 2-goal 2nd period from Dallas proved to be too much to handle.

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Capitals at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:25 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Capitals +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Sabres -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-225) | Sabres -1.5 (+180)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Capitals at Sabres projected goalies

Charlie Lindgren (22-15-7, 2.78 GAA, .909 SV%, 5 SO) vs. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (26-22-3, 2.58 GAA, .910 SV%, 5 SO)

Lindgren has seen the most action for the Capitals this season and is middle of the pack in regards the NHL. His 22-15-7 record ranks 18th, his 2.78 GAA ranks 19th, and his .909 SV% is 17th. He is 9-8 with a 2.99 GAA on the road this season.

Luukkonen has seen more action than the Sabres’ other 2 goalies combined this season. His 26-22-3 record is 11th-best in the NHL, as is his 2.58 GAA. Like Lindgren, he also has 5 SO this season, which is tied for 3rd-most in the NHL. He is 14-11 with a 2.25 GAA on his home ice this season.

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Capitals at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 4, Capitals 3

Moneyline

BET SABRES (-135).

The Sabres play their best hockey on their home ice with a 20-19-1 record. They return home after a 2-game road trip, and they are 3-1 in their last 4 in Western New York. They have scored 15 goals in that span at home and given up just 9.

Washington has dropped 6 of its last 7, including 3 of its last 4 on the road.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

The odds are better on the Sabres moneyline.

Over/Under

BET OVER 6 (+100).

While the Capitals have not been hot on the offensive end, scoring 2 goals or fewer in each of their last 7, they have given up 3 goals or more in 4 of their last 5, including 4 or more in 3 of their last 5.

The Sabres have scored 13 goals in their last 4 games. They’ve also scored 3 or more goals in 5 of their last 9 games and 6 of their last 10.

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Buffalo Sabres at Philadelphia Flyers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Buffalo Sabres at Philadelphia Flyers odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Buffalo Sabres (4-5-0) play the first game of a home-and-home set with the Philadelphia Flyers (4-4-1) Wednesday at Wells Fargo Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Sabres vs. Flyers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Sabres posted what is easily their best win of the season last time out, beating the Colorado Avalanche 4-0 on Sunday at KeyBank Center as heavy underdogs (+171) on home ice as the Under (7) cashed. Buffalo has managed a 1-2-0 record in 3 games on the road, suffering a 5-4 loss in New Jersey on Friday night.

The Flyers were on the short end of a 3-2 home loss against the Carolina Hurricanes on Monday night, and Philly has dropped 2 straight on home ice after winning its 1st 3 at WFC.

The road team has won 3 of the past 4 meetings in this series, including 2 of 3 last season, with the underdog cashing in 6 of the past 8 meetings overall. The Over is on an amazing 9-1 in the past 10 in this series.

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Sabres at Flyers odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:56 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Sabres -111 (bet $111 to win $100) | Flyers -108 (bet $108 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Sabres +1.5 (-255) | Flyers -1.5 (+205)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -142 | U: +116)

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Sabres at Flyers projected goalies

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (3-2-1, 2.72 GAA, .905 SV%) vs. Carter Hart (3-1-0, 1.33 GAA, .961 SV%)

Luukkonen turned aside all 23 of the shots he faced against the Avalanche on Sunday, and it’s hard to imagine Sabres coach Don Granato turning to Devon Levi (lower body) if he is ready. UPL has done a good job steadying things in the crease while Levi and Eric Comrie (lower body) have been on the shelf.

Hart kicked aside 29 of the 32 shots he faced against the Hurricanes last time out, but the offense provided him with just 2 goals of support, all in the 1st period. He has allowed 3 or fewer goals in each of his past 5 outings, and all 4 starts on home ice.

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Sabres at Flyers picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 3, Flyers 2

Moneyline

The SABRES (-111) are worth playing in the front end of the home-and-home set. The road team picked up 2 victories in 3 meetings last season, and Luukkonen is brimming with confidence after posting a shutout against the high-octane Avalanche last time out.

The Flyers (-108) have been quite consistent, with Hart alternating losses and wins in each of his past 4 starts.

While the Sabres are just 6-16 in the past 22 skates in Philly, Buffalo is a healthy 6-2 in the past 8 meetings overall in the series.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Sabres +1.5 (-255) will cost you over 2 1/2 times your potential return if you would like a little insurance. That’s way too much risk for not enough reward. If you like Buffalo, or Philadelphia, for that matter, just play it straight up.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (+116) at plus-money is worth a look, although know you’ll be going against some serious trends.

The Over has cashed in 9 of the past 10 meetings in this series. The Over is also 3-1-1 in the past 5 games on the road for the Sabres, while going 9-4 in the past 13 when playing on 2 days of rest.

For the Flyers, the Over has hit in 4 in a row against the Atlantic Division, although there is a slight 5-4 edge to the Under overall this season.

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Colorado Avalanche at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Colorado Avalanche at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Colorado Avalanche (6-1-0) visit the Buffalo Sabres (3-5-0) on Sunday. Puck drop from KeyBank Center is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Avalanche vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: First meeting; teams split 2 games last season with each winning on the road.

The Avalanche lost 4-0 to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday. LW Jonathan Drouin and C Nathan MacKinnon each had 5 shots, but  Colorado was unable to find the back of the net and suffered its 1st scoreless game of the season.

The Sabres fell 5-4 to the New Jersey Devils on Friday. Four Sabres scored, including D Rasmus Dahlin,

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Avalanche at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:49 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Avalanche -155 (bet $125 to win $100) | Sabres +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche -1.5 (+145) | Sabres -1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -125 | U: +105)

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Avalanche at Sabres projected goalies

Alexandar Georgiev (6-1-0, 2.31, 91.8%) vs. Devon Levi (1-3-0, 3.26, 89.2%)

The 26-year-old Georgiev has started every game and ranks 1st among all goalies with 6 wins. He was 1-1 against the Sabres last year and has a 5-3 career mark against them with a 2.92 GAA.

Levi has started 4 of Buffalo’s 6 games. His 1-3-0 record ranks 37th overall while his goals allowed per game and 89.2% save percentage each rank 41st overall. The rookie made the jump to the NHL directly from the NCAA and has yet to prove himself.

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Avalanche at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 5, Sabres 2

Moneyline

PASS.

While the Avalanche are coming off of a bad loss, it was their 1st of the season. They are 4-1 on the road. There is a distinct advantage for Colorado with Georgiev in the net. Buffalo is just 2-3 at home this season.

Puck line/Against the spread

LEAN AVALANCHE -1.5 (+145).

The Avalanche are 5-2 ATS this season and have outscored opponents 28-16, including a 17-12 goal differential on the road despite the 4-0 loss on Friday. This is an intriguing play and a good opportunity to profit.

Over/Under

BET OVER 6.5 (-125).

The Avalanche have scored at least 4 goals in 5 of their 7 games this season and the Sabres have scored at least 3 goals in 5 of their 8 games this season. Both teams are coming off losses and will be looking to regain momentum early in this season.

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Montreal Canadiens at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Montreal Canadiens at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Montreal Canadiens (2-1-1) travel to meet the Buffalo Sabres (2-3-0) Monday at KeyBank Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (NHL Network). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Canadiens vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Canadiens have alternated wins and losses since the opener, which was the team’s only road game to date. Montreal fell 6-5 in a wild shootout loss in Toronto to open the season as the Over (6.5) easily cashed.

The Sabres will be playing their 5th home game of the season. Buffalo has split the first 4 games at KeyBank Center, winning 3-1 against the New York Islanders in the most recent skate at home on Saturday. The Under has cashed in 4 of 5 games overall, including 3-1 at home.

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Canadiens at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:41 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Canadiens +150 (bet $100 to win $150) | Sabres -185 (bet $185 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Canadiens +1.5 (-150) | Sabres -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -125 | U: +105)

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Canadiens at Sabres projected goalies

Jake Allen (1-0-1, 3.34 GAA, .907 SV%) vs. Devon Levi (1-3-0, 3.26 GAA, .892 SV%)

Allen has had a flare for the dramatic in his 2 outings so far. He allowed 5 goals on 42 shots in the aforementioned 6-5 SOL at Toronto in the opener, while stopping 31 of 33 shots in a 3-2 OT win against Washington last time out on Saturday.

Levi coughed up 4 goals on 36 shots in a 4-3 loss against the Calgary Flames on Thursday in his most recent showing. He has started 4 of the team’s 5 games to date, allowing 10 total goals in 3 home starts.

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Canadiens at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 4, Canadiens 3

Moneyline

The Sabres (-185) are a little on the pricey side, costing you nearly 2 times your potential return. That’s too much for a team which has basically been spinning its wheels this season, failing to gain traction one way or the other.

The Canadiens (+150) might be the better play, as the road team is 4-1 in the past 5 in this series, but Montreal has just been too inconsistent, too. Don’t bet just to bet, it’s a losing proposition.

AVOID.

Puck line/Against the spread

The CANADIENS +1.5 (-150) is worth playing lightly, as we could have a very close game. Montreal has needed overtime or a shootout in 2 of 4 games to date, with 3 of its 4 games decided by a single goal.

The Sabres -1.5 (+125) have also played 3 games decided by a single goal through 5 outings.

Over/Under

The OVER 6.5 (-125) is the lean, but again, go lightly.

The Under has cashed in 4 of 5 games for Buffalo, so you’ll be going a bit against the grain. However, Buffalo has allowed 3 or more goals in 3 of 5 games, while Montreal has yielded 15 goals through 4 outings. We should see plenty of lamp lightings.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Tampa Bay Lightning (1-2-0) and Buffalo Sabres (0-2-0) meet Tuesday at KeyBank Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Lightning vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Lightning have stumbled out of the chute, and a big reason is that they’re missing their captain C Steven Stamkos and G Andrei Vasilevskiy. Stamkos is questionable to play, as he makes his way back from a lower-body injury, but Vasilevskiy is out until at least late November or early December.

Tampa has lost the first 2 games on the road trip in Detroit and Ottawa by a combined 11-6 score, and the Over is 2-0-1 this season.

Buffalo is off to a slow start, getting outscored 8-3 in a pair of losses to the New York Rangers and New York Islanders. The Sabres were expected to contend for a playoff spot this season, but it’s been more of the same futility so far.

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Lightning at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:50 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Lightning -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Sabres -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Lightning +1.5 (-250) | Sabres -1.5 (+200)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: +105 | U: -130)

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Lightning at Sabres projected goalies

Jonas Johansson (1-1-0, 4.09 GAA, .889 SV%) vs. Devon Levi (0-2-0, 3.55 GAA, .881 SV%)

Johansson is expected to do most of the heavy lifting until Vassy is healthy enough to return for the Lightning. He was decent enough against Nashville in the opener, allowing just 3 goals on 31 shots in the 5-3 win. However, he was snowed under in a 6-4 loss at Detroit, allowing 5 goals on 41 shots.

Levi had dominated down the stretch last season, and the hope was that he and the Sabres would have a hot start. It’s been the complete opposite, as he has allowed 7 goals on 59 shots. Facing a still dangerous Lightning offense won’t do him any favors.

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Lightning at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Lightning 4, Sabres 3

Moneyline

The LIGHTNING (-110) are a value play on the road. These teams split the season series 2-2 in 2022-23, and that’s a big reason why the Lightning aren’t favored by more. But the Sabres (-110) just haven’t shown any signs of doing anything differently this season. They just haven’t found a way to win, and until they do, keep fading them.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Lightning +1.5 (-250) will cost you 2½ times your potential return, if you need a little insurance and can’t bet Tampa Bay straight up. That’s too much risk and not enough reward.

AVOID, and just focus on the moneyline instead.

Over/Under

Over/Under 7 is not a recommended play, either. I think the total comes down right on the number.

With the way these teams have played early on, there is a slight lean to going high on the total. If you look to the ALTERNATE LINE – OVER 6.5 (-145), that’s not priced too much out of line.

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New York Rangers at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s New York Rangers at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The New York Rangers and the Buffalo Sabres open their 2023-24 National Hockey League regular seasons Thursday at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Rangers lost the 3-game season series to the Sabres in 2022-23, dropping 2 of 3 meetings. None of the matchups were able to be decided in regulation, and 4 straight in the series have needed either overtime or a shootout while 10 of the last 12 in the series have been decided by a single goal. The last time a team won by more than 1 goal in this series was a 3-1 win by the Blueshirts at MSG on April 27, 2021.

The Sabres figure to be much better this season, and they’re looking to snap the league’s longest active postseason drought. Buffalo has failed to make the playoffs in 12 straight seasons, last appearing seeing postseason action in 2010-11.

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Rangers at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:52 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers -130 (bet $130 to win $100) | Sabres +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+180) | Sabres +1.5 (-225)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Rangers at Sabres projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (37-13-8, 2.48 GAA, .916 SV%, 3 SO – 2022-23) vs. Devon Levi (5-2-0, 2.94 GAA, .905 SV% )

Shesterkin was actually better, statistically, on the road than at home last season. He was 17-4-0 with a 2.36 GAA and .920 SV% in 25 away starts, while going 20-9-0 with a 2.57 GAA and .913 SV% in 33 home appearances. He was 1-0-1 with a sparkling 1.42 GAA and .958 SV% in 2 starts vs. Buffalo.

Levi saw his first NHL action down the stretch last season, and his solid backstop play gave the team’s fans hope for the near future. He faced the Rangers in 2 of his 7 starts, going 2-0-0 with a 1.89 GAA and .934 SV%, allowing just 4 total goals on 61 shots.

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Rangers at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 3, Rangers 2

Moneyline

The SABRES (+110) are a solid value as short ‘dogs at home with Levi in the blue ice. He shut the Rangers down last season, and Buffalo should be a lot better both on both ends of the ice. Look for the Sabres to get off to a hot start behind a raucous crowd.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Sabres +1.5 (-225) are a little on the pricey side, costing you more than twice your potential return should you decide you need a little insurance and you just cannot play Buffalo straight up.

It’s not a bad play, as 10 of the past 12 in this series have been decided by a single goal, and the past 4 meetings have ended up going to OT or SO. However, this is still quite expensive, so be careful. Personally, it’s too rich for me.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (-105) might be the best play on the board. We already know what we have in Shesty, and he was strong against the Sabres last season. While hile the sample size is rather small, when it comes to Levi, he was hard on the Blueshirts down the stretch.

The Under has hit in 3 in a row in this series and is 7-3 across the previous 10 meetings.

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Buffalo Sabres at New Jersey Devils odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Buffalo Sabres at New Jersey Devils odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Buffalo Sabres (40-32-7) travel to meet the New Jersey Devils (50-22-8) Tuesday. Puck drop from Prudential Center is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Sabres vs. Devils odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Sabres might be eliminated from the playoff chase, but they’re not playing like it. Buffalo has won 5 of the last 6 games, including beating the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers from the Metropolitan Division.

The Devils were tripped up 2-1 on the road against the Boston Bruins on Saturday. New Jersey is still 4-2 in the lst 6 games, and the Devils have crept to within 1 point of the 1st-place Hurricanes in the Metro with 2 games left in the regular season.

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Sabres at Devils odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:27 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Sabres +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Devils -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Sabres +1.5 (-145) | Devils -1.5 (+120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Sabres at Devils projected goalies

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (17-11-4, 3.61 GAA, .892 SV%) vs. Vitek Vanecek (32-11-4, 2.46 GAA, .910 SV%, 3 SO)

Luukkonen allowed just 3 goals on 42 shots in his most recent appearance April 1 in Philadelphia. Lately, it’s been the Devon Levi show, but after the impressive prospect started Monday, it’s highly doubtful he starts in a back-to-back stituation.

Vanecek allowed just a single goal on 17 shots in an 8-1 laugher against the Columbus Blue Jackets last time out. He has allowed just 1 goal apiece in 3 of his last 4 games. The last time he faced the Sabres he allowed 2 goals on 19 shots in a relief effort on March 24.

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Sabres at Devils picks and predictions

Prediction

Devils 5, Sabres 3

Moneyline

The Devils (-200) will cost you 2 times your potential return, which is just too much risk with the way the Sabres (+165) have been performing lately. Buffalo has rattled off 5 consecutive victories against teams with a winning record, too.

PASS.

Puck line/Against the spread

The DEVILS -1.5 (+120) are playing for a Metropolitan Division title, and they’ll bring it on home ice against a Sabres +1.5 (-145) team facing the quick turnaround after a stunning 3-2 win in a shootout over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Monday night.

While there is some risk here, as the road team has won 9 of the last 12 meetings in this series, the Sabres are 1-6 in the last 7 games in the 4th game of a 4-in-6 (4 games in 6 days) situation.

Over/Under

OVER 7 (+100) is worth a look at even-money.

The Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in this series, and the Over has cashed at an 8-3-2 clip in the last 13 meetings. The Over is also 23-11-1 in the 35 meetings against Metropolitan Division opponents.

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Buffalo Sabres at New York Rangers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Buffalo Sabres at New York Rangers odds and lines, with expert NHL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Buffalo Sabres (39-32-7) travel to meet the New York Rangers (47-21-12) Monday. Puck drop from Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Sabres vs. Rangers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Sabres remain mathematically alive for the final Wild-Card spot in the Eastern Conference, sitting 6 points back with 4 games remaining in the regular season. Buffalo needs help, and it cannot afford any additional losses.

The Rangers are 3 points out of 1st place in the Metropolitan Division behind the Carolina Hurricanes (109 points), with the Canes holding a game in hand on the Rangers and the 2nd-place New Jersey Devils (108 points).

New York posted a 4-0 win on the road against the Columbus Blue Jackets Saturday, and it is 3-0-1 in the last 4 games overall.

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Sabres at Rangers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:47 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Sabres +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Rangers -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Sabres +1.5 (-150) | Rangers -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Sabres at Rangers projected goalies

Devon Levi (3-1-0, 3.17 GAA, .904 SV%) vs. Igor Shesterkin (37-13-7, 2.49 GAA, .915 SV%, 3 SO)

Levi is quickly becoming a fan favorite. The prospect has drawn comparisons to former Sabres backstop Ryan Miller, going from top goalie prospect after a great collegiate career, to goalie in the heat of a playoff spot chase. He has allowed 3 or fewer goals on 3 of his 4 starts since turning pro.

Shesterkin turned aside 20 shots for his 3rd shutout of the season in Columbus last time out on Saturday. Since flipping the calendar from March to April, Shesty is 3-0-0 with a 1.67 GAA and .937 SV% with a shutout.

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Sabres at Rangers picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 3, Sabres 1

Moneyline

The Rangers (-200) will cost you 2 times your potential return, and that’s just too steep of a price tag for a singular bet. The Sabres (+165) are still technically alive for a postseason spot, but it’s an uphill climb against the red-hot Shesterkin.

PASS.

Puck line/Against the spread

The RANGERS -1.5 (+125) are a much better play at plus-money on the puck line.

New York has won 3 of the last 4 games in regulation, while winning each of the games by 3 or more goals. It did lose 3-2 in OT at Buffalo in the most recent meeting March 31, and the Rangers won just 2-1, also in OT, in the most recent meeting prior to that on March 11, so be careful.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (+100) is the best play on the board, especially at even-money.

While the Over has dominated for the Sabres lately, going 8-3-2 in the last 13 games, the Under is 10-4 in the last 14 meetings with the Rangers.

The Under is also 18-7-2 in the last 27 games for the Rangers against the Atlantic Division, while going 6-1-1 in the last 8 games when playing on a day of rest.

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Carolina Hurricanes at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Carolina Hurricanes at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with expert NHL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Carolina Hurricanes (50-19-9) play the 2nd of a 3-game road trip against the Buffalo Sabres (38-32-7) Saturday. Puck drop from KeyBank Center is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Hurricanes vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Hurricanes opened their road trip by laying an egg in a 3-0 loss to the Nashville Predators Thursday. Carolina leads the Metropolitan Division with 109 points and is just 1 point clear of the second-place New Jersey Devils but has a game in hand.

The Sabres suffered a damaging 2-1 loss on the road against the Florida Panthers Tuesday but picked up 2 important points with a 7-6 victory at the Detroit Red Wings Thursday.

While Buffalo is not mathematically eliminated from the postseason chase just yet, it trails Florida and the New York Islanders by 6 points for the final Eastern Conference Wild Card. The Panthers and Isles have 3 games remaining and the Sabres only have 5 left so the wiggle room is quickly disappearing for Buffalo to sneak into the playoffs.

This is the 3rd and final regular-season meeting between these teams. Carolina won 5-3 at home against the Sabres as the Over (6.5) cashed on Nov. 4 and won 5-1 in Buffalo with an Under (6.5) result on Feb. 1.

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Hurricanes at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:40 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Hurricanes -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Sabres +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Hurricanes -1.5 (+145) | Sabres +1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Hurricanes at Sabres projected goalies

Antti Raanta (18-2-3, 2.20 GAA, .911 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (17-11-4, 3.61 GAA, .891 SV%)

Raanta has been on fire lately, winning both of his April starts, including a 14-save shutout on the road against the Montreal Canadiens last Saturday. He hasn’t lost in regulation in 18 starts and 1 relief appearance dating back to Nov. 12 in Colorado, going 15-0-2 along that span.

The Finnish netminder was in net for both victories against Buffalo this season, going 2-0-0 with a 2.00 GAA and .927 SV%.

Luukkonen allowed 3 goals on 42 shots in a 6-3 road win against the Philadelphia Flyers last Saturday. The 24-year-old — also from Finland — has won back-to-back starts for the 1st time since a 3-game win streak from Jan. 19-24.

UPL lost his only start against the Canes back on Feb. 1, coughing up 4 goals on 33 shots.

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Hurricanes at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 3, Sabres 2

Moneyline

The HURRICANES (-160) are decent favorites on the road as they look to bounce back after getting blanked in the Music City Thursday.

While Carolina has dropped 2 of the past 3 on the road while averaging just 1.7 goals per game, it faces a Sabres team that has 1 foot in the grave in terms of playoff possibilities.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Sabres +1.5 (-175) are a little on the expensive side in what should be a tight game.

Buffalo has won just twice in the past 8 games at KeyBank Center and is 1-5 in its last 6 games when playing on a single day of rest. It’s also just 1-6 in the past 7 games at home against Carolina and has won just 7 of the previous 27 meetings with the Canes overall.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (+100) is a decent play at even money.

The Hurricanes have cashed the Under in 6 games in a row overall and their last 4 on the road. The Under has cashed in 5 straight for Carolina against Eastern Conference teams, too.

The Under cashed for Buffalo last time out in Florida, and the total has gone low at a 3-2-1 clip in the past 6 games overall.

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Buffalo Sabres at Detroit Red Wings odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Buffalo Sabres at Detroit Red Wings odds and lines, with expert NHL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Buffalo Sabres (37-32-7) wrap up a 3-game road trip Thursday against the Detroit Red Wings (34-33-9). Puck drop from Little Caesars Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Sabres vs. Red Wings odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Sabres suffered a costly 2-1 loss on the road against the Florida Panthers Tuesday. Buffalo is still not mathematically eliminated from the playoffs but is 6 points out of the final Eastern Conference Wild Card spot with just 6 games remaining.

The Red Wings are making a late push for the playoffs but remain 8 points out of the final East Wild Card with 5 games left in the regular season. Detroit has won 4 of the past 5 games, including a 5-0 win on the road against the Montreal Canadiens Tuesday.

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Sabres at Red Wings odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:26 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Sabres -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Red Wings -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Sabres -1.5 (+200) | Red Wings +1.5 (-250)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -140 | U: +115)

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Sabres at Red Wings projected goalies

Devon Levi (1-1-0, 1.98 GAA, .942 SV%) vs. Ville Husso (26-19-6, 2.96 GAA, .901 SV%, 4 SO)

Levi made his 2nd pro start Tuesday in Florida, allowing 2 goals on 36 shots in a hard-luck loss. He also allowed 2 goals (on 33 shots) in a win against the New York Rangers in his pro debut Friday.

Husso turned aside all 24 of the shots he faced in Montreal Tuesday after allowing 10 goals in his previous 2 starts. He is 16-13-0 with a 2.92 GAA and .900 SV% with 3 SO in 32 games at Little Caesars Arena this season.

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Sabres at Red Wings picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 3, Red Wings 2

Moneyline

The SABRES (-115) are solid road favorites in this crucial battle to stay alive in the Eastern Conference playoff hunt.

The Red Wings have played well lately but they did drop each of the first 3 regular-season meetings against Buffalo, including a 5-4 shootout loss in the only other battle at LCA on Nov. 30.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Red Wings +1.5 (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, which is way too much if you require a little bit of insurance.

Buffalo needed a shootout to decide one of the 3 meetings this season, but the other two meetings were 5- and 3-goal margins.

AVOID.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (+115) is a strong play, especially at plus money.

The Under has cashed in 7 of the past 10 meetings between these teams in Detroit and is 3-1-1 in the past 5 games overall for Buffalo. The Under is also 16-7 in the past 23 games for the Red Wings against Eastern Conference teams.

Expect goals to be at a premium in this intense game to stay alive in the playoff chase.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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