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Buffalo vs New Jersey: NHL Match Prediction
In the NHL Global Series, the Buffalo Sabres will face off against the New Jersey Devils in Prague, with both teams vying for points. According to bookmakers, the Devils are favored in this matchup. However, during the preseason, the Devils struggled and often faced defeats. Should you place a bet on their success in this game? Find out more in our prediction.
Command Analysis
Buffalo Sabres
USACurrent Form
Buffalo is unlikely to perform significantly better this season compared to last year. The team hasn't made any changes that would lead to noticeable improvement. Additionally, Victor Olofsson, one of the key players, has left, making the Sabres' offense appear weaker. Interestingly, during the preseason, the Sabres showed promising results. Even after a defeat against Columbus (3-6), they faced Detroit and secured a victory with a score of 4-3 in overtime.
Notably, following last season, the team is now led by Lindy Ruff, who previously coached New Jersey but struggled to elevate the team to new heights.
Injuries and Suspensions
Due to an injury, Johnson will be unavailable for the match, while Kulich and Rousek will sit out on the coach's decision.
Interesting Betting Trends
- The Sabres average 32 shots per game
Buffalo has been very active in preseason games, consistently generating numerous shots on opposing goals.
- Buffalo has a goal differential of 9:2 in the second period
The Sabres excel when playing from long benches, mainly creating dangerous chances during the second period, which contributes to their favorable goal ratio.
New Jersey Devils
USACurrent Form
New Jersey has made a coaching change, bringing in Sheldon Keefe who led Toronto last season. The team is struggling to find its rhythm. In preseason games, they have often come up short, securing just one victory against the Rangers (3-1), while losing the other matches in regulation time. Notably, in their last encounter with Philadelphia, the Devils faced a 4-5 defeat despite fielding a second-string lineup.
Overall, the team’s issues mirror those of the previous year. They excel in offense, generating numerous scoring opportunities, yet they also concede an alarming number of goals. Furthermore, New Jersey lacks a reliable goaltending unit, which will likely impact their performance throughout the season.
Injuries and Suspensions
Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce will miss the game due to injuries.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Historically, New Jersey has allowed an average of four or more goals per game.
Both last season and during preseason, New Jersey showcased a weak defensive game, making numerous errors in their zone.
- The Devils have a goal differential of 4:13, with goals scored versus goals allowed.
Unlike their opponent, the Devils struggle in the second period, frequently falling short defensively.
Trends
Bet 1st Period: Total Over 1.5 Goals
In the last five matches between these teams, the first period produced goals
1.77Bet 2nd Period: Victory for Buffalo
In four of the last five games, the Devils lost during the second period
2.85Tip and bets
In our opinion, there’s a compelling case for backing the Buffalo Sabres in this matchup. The betting odds significantly undervalue the Sabres, who match up well against their rivals. The New Jersey Devils have struggled in preseason, even with their top lineup on the ice. Historically, the Sabres have had success against the Devils in their previous encounters. Additionally, this game holds particular significance for coach Lindy Ruff, who faces his former team that he led just last season.
Prediction - Buffalo to win with a handicap of (0) at 2.30
Total Goals Bet
In this matchup, we anticipate at least six goals being scored. Both the Buffalo Sabres and New Jersey Devils consistently favor an open style of hockey. Recent encounters between these teams have been thrilling, often featuring a minimum of six goals.
We recommend a bet on over 5.5 total goals at odds of 1.65
Individual Total Goals Bet
The Devils struggle defensively and possess a below-average goaltending lineup. In most recent games, they have allowed three or more goals. The Sabres are adept at creating scoring opportunities, typically breaching the opponent's defense at least three times. We expect them to net a minimum of three goals again.
Let’s place a bet on the individual total for the Sabres at over 2.5 goals with odds of 1.77
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