Buffalo Sabres vs
Edmonton OilersPredictions & Preview

Sabres vs Oilers: Edmonton Favored in Crucial Interconference Matchup in Western Canada

The Buffalo Sabres and Edmonton Oilers are set to face off in a crucial interconference matchup in Western Canada. The Sabres are coming off a loss to the Flames, while the Oilers secured a strong victory over Vancouver in their previous games. In their past 10 meetings, the Oilers have had the upper hand with a 5-2-3 record, including a dominant 8-3 win in their most recent matchup. Edmonton is considered the betting favorite with a -231 opening line that has remained stable. Stay tuned for our prediction on how this high-stakes game will unfold.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Sabres +196 | Oilers -231
• Spread: Sabres +1.5 (-133) | Oilers -1.5 (+112)
• Total: Over/Under 6 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Edmonton will win straight-up is 70%.

Buffalo vs Edmonton Stats

Buffalo Sabres

The Buffalo Sabres faced a defeat against Calgary in their previous game, despite outshooting their opponents in the first and second periods. Buffalo is currently ranked 12th in offense, averaging 3.06 goals per game, and 30th in defense, allowing 3.46 goals per game. With a power ranking of 27, they are 18-25-5 this season and stand eighth in the Atlantic Division, 21 points behind the division lead. Despite their offensive capabilities, the team struggles on defense and penalty killing. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to be in net for the upcoming games.

Edmonton Oilers Analysis

The Edmonton Oilers faced the Vancouver Canucks in a Pacific Division matchup at home, with the Oilers leading 3-0 after the first period and ultimately winning 6-2. Edmonton has a strong offense, ranking 7th in the league for goals per game and also boasts a solid defense, ranking 6th in goals against. The Oilers are 6th in power play success but struggle on the penalty kill, ranking 24th in the league. Edmonton's goaltender Calvin Pickard made 24 saves in the victory. However, star player Connor McDavid was serving a suspension and did not play in the game. Overall, Edmonton has a power ranking of 1 and a record of 30-15-3 on the season.

Buffalo Sabres Struggling to Make Playoffs for 14th Year; Face Tough Matchup Against Edmonton Oilers

Buffalo is experiencing challenges this season, currently in danger of missing the playoffs for the 14th consecutive year. Their road record of 9-13-2 and current 1-2-0 standing on a four-game road trip are less than ideal. Although facing Edmonton without McDavid may present an opportunity, the Sabres lack the offensive depth needed to compete with the Oilers. Additionally, Buffalo ranks third worst in the league for goals against, while Edmonton is sixth best in that category, tipping the scales in favor of the Oilers. It is likely that Edmonton will secure a victory in this matchup.

Sources: [ 4 ] [ 5 ]