The Buffalo Sabres will embark on their first back-to-back of the season against one of the NHL’s most dangerous teams, the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Buffalo Sabres don’t have a great recent history against the Tampa Bay Lightning, having won just a single game in their last 11 meetings. But opportunity is knocking on the door since the Sabres, 7-4-0, are looking to show the NHL universe they can indeed hang with the league’s best.
Last night against the Carolina Hurricanes, it did not go so well, with the Sabres losing 5-3 in game that saw them completely outmatched by ‘Canes sheer experience. But for 2.5 periods, they kept it close amidst a hostile atmosphere on the road, stating that this team is much-improved.
And a win over the Lightning would further solidify that improvement. But is it possible? Let’s look at the odds.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Lightning Odds – Game 12
Per Fan Duel, the Buffalo Sabres are currently +1.5 underdogs to the Lightning. The Over/Under sits at 6.5, and the Sabres moneyline is +198. The moneyline for the Lightning is -245.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Lightning Prediction – Game 12
Opportunity awaits the Sabres, but a banged up team on the road in a back-to-back against a group that has been nothing but a massive thorn in the side is not a good look. While an upset would make a great story, I’m sticking with reality in this one.
As much as I like the Sabres improvement and the fact they have beaten more talented teams earlier int he season, the Lightning will be too much to overcome. Overall, I’m predicting a blowout loss to Tampa in this one, 7-2. It’s going to be one of those “learning experience” games and not much more.
Despite the bleak outlook for Buffalo, I do believe that a loss like this will set the stage for their next homestand that includes a date against Jack Eichel and his Vegas Golden Knights.
(Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change)
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