Buffalo Sabres vs
Columbus Blue JacketsPredictions & Preview

Buffalo Sabres Favored to End Stanley Cup Playoffs Drought as they Face Columbus Blue Jackets: NHL Matchup Promises Intense Rivalry

The Buffalo Sabres, currently 1-3-1, have high hopes for ending their Stanley Cup Playoffs drought despite a slow start to the season. They will face the Columbus Blue Jackets (1-2-0) in an upcoming game. Buffalo is the betting favorite, opening at -135 with the current line at Buffalo -128. Columbus, who has faced challenges during the off-season, is looking for their young core to step up and lead them in the 2024/25 season.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Sabres -128 | Blue Jackets +110
• Spread: Sabres -1.5 (+190) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-225)
• Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Buffalo will win straight-up is 56%.

Buffalo vs Columbus Stats

Buffalo Sabres

Despite high expectations for the Buffalo Sabres this season, the team has gotten off to a slow start and currently finds themselves at the bottom of the Atlantic Division. However, their goaltenders have been a bright spot, boasting a 3.00 GAA and .906 save percentage. Offensively, Alex Tuch has led the way with six points in five games, showcasing improved team depth. Despite a recent overtime loss to the Penguins, the Sabres have shown potential to compete with top teams. In terms of power rankings, Buffalo sits at #24, ranking 28th in offense and 10th in defense, with a record of 1-3-1.

Columbus Blue Jackets Analysis

The Columbus Blue Jackets have faced a difficult off-season, dealing with tragedy and injuries to their young core. While showing signs of competitiveness, their goaltending has not been at an elite level, with a save percentage of .859 and a GAA of 3.67. Despite this, several players have been performing well offensively, with four players averaging over a point per game. In their recent emotional home opener against the Florida Panthers, they fell short despite a strong effort, ultimately losing 4-3. The team currently has a power ranking of 29, ranking 8th for offense and 23rd for defense. In their last three matchups, Buffalo has gone 1-1-1 against Columbus.

NHL matchup between Sabres and Blue Jackets promises intense rivalry and captivating performance

Despite the slow starts by both teams this season, they have been demonstrating strong competitive performances. Although not considered a high-profile matchup, the upcoming game between these teams in the NHL promises to be one of the most captivating of the day. The head-to-head encounters between these teams have resulted in a balanced 5-5 record over their last 10 games. However, in the previous season, the Sabres stood out with a 2-1 lead over the Blue Jackets, outscoring them 5-3 in total. This indicates a tense and closely-matched rivalry between the two teams. Moreover, Buffalo has secured victory in their last three encounters played in Columbus. With improved teamwork and a more dynamic goaltending duo, the Sabres are positioned to claim a crucial win in this upcoming match.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ]