Carolina Hurricanes vs
Buffalo SabresPredictions & Preview

Carolina Hurricanes to Face Off Against Hot Streaking Buffalo Sabres in Western New York

In a highly anticipated matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes and Buffalo Sabres are set to face off in Western New York. The Hurricanes enter the game as the betting favorite with a 6-3-1 advantage in their last 10 meetings against the Sabres. Despite Carolina's recent loss to Boston, they are expected to come out strong against Buffalo who is coming off a win against Boston. With Carolina opening as the favorite at -185, this game is sure to be an exciting one for hockey fans.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Hurricanes -185 | Sabres +160
• Spread: Hurricanes -1.5 (+135) | Sabres +1.5 (-160)
• Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Carolina will win straight-up is 65%.

Carolina vs Buffalo Stats

Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina suffered a second straight loss as they were beaten on the road by Boston, continuing a trend of offensive struggles. Despite their 46-26-4 record, they are ranked 10th in offense and 7th in defense. The Hurricanes are in second place in the Metropolitan Division, 11 points behind the Capitals. They have a strong penalty killing unit, leading the league with an 84.8% success rate. Carolina will look to rebound from their recent losses as they prepare for their next game with Pyotr Kochetkov expected to start in goal.

Buffalo Sabres Analysis

The Buffalo Sabres secured their fourth consecutive victory and their seventh win in the last eight games by defeating the Boston Bruins at home. With a season record of 34-36-6, the Sabres currently rank seventh in the Atlantic Division, trailing the Maple Leafs by 24 points. Despite being 18 points behind the Panthers for a guaranteed playoff spot and 11 points behind Montreal for a wild card position, Buffalo is tied for 7th in offense, averaging 3.26 goals per game. However, they rank 29th in defense, allowing 3.51 goals per game. Additionally, they are 25th in power play success, converting 18.3% of their chances, and 23rd in penalty killing, successfully navigating 76.3% of shorthanded situations. In their recent victory against Boston, the Sabres dominated in shots and goals in the second and third periods to secure a 6-3 win. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 17 saves in the victory, and James Reimer is expected to start in the next game.

Carolina Hurricanes Clinch Playoff Spot, Prepare for Matchup Against Hot Streaking Buffalo Sabres

The Carolina Hurricanes are currently preparing for the postseason after clinching a playoff spot with time still remaining in the regular season. On the other hand, the Buffalo Sabres must win all their remaining games while hoping for Montreal to lose in order to secure a postseason berth. The Sabres have been on a hot streak, winning seven of their last eight games leading up to this crucial matchup. Carolina will have a rest advantage as they enter the game after playing back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday, while Buffalo played on both Saturday and Sunday. Despite the momentum in Buffalo's favor, the Hurricanes are already locked into their postseason position with probable home ice advantage for the first round series. Ultimately, the Sabres may have the edge in this match as they continue their strong performance, although it is likely too late for them to secure a playoff spot.

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