The Buffalo Sabres have been struggling at home, but a pivotal matchup on Ryan Miller Night could change their recent fortunes.
The Buffalo Sabres could use some added motivation, given their recent slate of games that has seen them drop five of their past six. But during commemorative/special home games, they are a different hockey team.
Even against a tough Islanders team, the Blue and Gold have a chance in this one. So tonight, expect to see a faster Sabres team that will handle the puck well, a stark contrast from what we’ve seen in recent games. Even Tuesday’s loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, while Buffalo played better, was marred in errors and inconsistent puck-handling.
So what are the odds that they can send the 19,070-plus fans in attendance home happy? Here is a prediction.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Islanders Odds – Game 44
Per Fan Duel, the Buffalo Sabres are -1.5 favorites at home against the New York Islanders. The Over/Under is 6, and the Sabres moneyline is -118. The Islanders moneyline is -102.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Islanders Predicton – Game 44
Ordinarily, I’d predict a surefire loss here and in future games until the Sabres prove they’re the high-octane team we got to know during the first half of the season. But added motivation does strange things to teams, and the Sabres are obviously no exception.
Therefore, I have no problem predicting a big win for the Blue and Gold and yes, even if they continue to struggle, I have no doubt they will score five (or more) goals tonight. This is a game that will mean a lot to the team, the city, and every player in the locker room. And they will respond accordingly.
Instead of feeling and succumbing to pressure, motivation will fuel this team tonight, and it’s going to be a fun outing. The Sabres take it by a score of 5-4 in a game that will see them score a game-winner late in the third period.
(Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change)
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