Liontips
Buffalo vs. Washington: NHL Match Prediction
On January 7, Buffalo will attempt to break their losing streak, which has now reached three consecutive games. This time, the team returns to their home arena to face Washington. Our experts have prepared a betting tip that discusses the recent matches of both clubs and highlights the most optimal bets.
Command Analysis
Buffalo Sabres
USACurrent Form
Buffalo has been struggling for a while, enduring 11 consecutive losses. However, the losing streak ended, and under Ruff's leadership, the team showed signs of improvement. Unfortunately, this resurgence was short-lived as Buffalo started dropping points again. Their next challenge was against one of the season's top contenders, Dallas. Despite their efforts, Buffalo fell 2-4. Defensive issues allowed the Stars to fully exploit their offensive potential, consistently shooting at the Sabres' net, which the goalie couldn't handle.
Following this defeat, Buffalo visited another strong opponent, Colorado. The team was close to victory but conceded a decisive goal eight seconds before regulation time ended. In overtime, the Avalanche secured a 5-6 win. This match was a real test for Buffalo's goalie, Luukkonen, who saved only 79% of shots, marking one of the worst performances in his career. This loss was another blow to a team already facing challenges this season. Continuing their road games, the club faced an even tougher competitor in Vegas and couldn't break through the solid defense of the clear favorite, losing 1-3. Indeed, the Sabres' slump has dragged on too long. They have dropped to the bottom of the standings, and with such play, their chances of making the playoffs are dwindling with each setback.
Suspensions and Injuries
It's worth noting that Buffalo has no major lineup issues. Only Greenway is sidelined.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Buffalo averages 10.5 penalty minutes per game
The Sabres have struggled with discipline throughout the regular season, frequently committing fouls.
- The Sabres average 27 shots per game
It's also worth noting that Buffalo rarely creates a significant number of dangerous opportunities in the opponent's zone.
Washington Capitals
USACurrent Form
Washington has recently lost its momentum, showing inconsistent results by alternating wins and losses. The Capitals wrapped up their home series, which started on a high note, with a solid 3-1 victory over Boston. Goalie Thompson played a crucial role, saving 96% of shots, preventing the opponent from staging a comeback. Continuing at home, the team faced a much stronger opponent in Minnesota and was close to success again, but conceded a frustrating goal just eight minutes before the final whistle, allowing the opponent to equalize. The game went to a shootout, where they ultimately lost 4-3. Indeed, the Capitals' defense was unreliable, which the Wild capitalized on.
Continuing their home stand, Carbery's squad faced the Rangers and took advantage of their poor form, thrashing them 7-4. Forward Strome was the standout performer, scoring a goal and providing two assists. Notably, club captain Alexander Ovechkin has finally recovered from injury and immediately made an impact, already tallying three points, including two goals that bring him closer to Gretzky's record. Despite a slight dip, the team remains the best in the Eastern Conference, holding the top spot with a significant lead over the nearest competitor.
Suspensions and Injuries
Washington's injury list remains unchanged. Backstrom, T.J. Oshie, and Milano are still sidelined.
Interesting Betting Trends
- On average, the Capitals score 3.7 goals per game
Washington remains one of the highest-scoring teams in the league.
- The Capitals average nine penalty minutes per game
However, the team struggles with discipline, leading to frequent penalties.
Trends
Bet First Goal: "Buffalo"
In three out of four head-to-head matches, "Buffalo" scored first
2.01Bet Goal in Every Period – Yes
In five consecutive head-to-head matches, teams scored in every period
1.50Tip and bets
Despite a recent dip, Washington remains one of the top teams in the league. Indeed, the club is delivering outstanding performances this season, defeating nearly every opponent in their path, both at home and on the road. In contrast, Buffalo is facing significant challenges, leading to repeated losses. It's hard to predict when the Sabres will regain their form and start consistently earning points again, as there are currently no signs of improvement. For these reasons, we recommend placing a bet on the visitors at an excellent odds.
Our prediction – Washington to win at 2.17
Total Bet
The upcoming match promises to be highly productive. Firstly, Washington focuses on their offensive line and often capitalizes on it fully. Secondly, Buffalo has been struggling defensively throughout the regular season, meaning they will need to compensate with active play in the opponent's zone.
Prediction – total over 5.5 goals at 1.70
First Period Outcome Bet
Washington, leveraging their significant advantage over the opponent, should take the lead and start applying serious pressure on Buffalo from the first minutes of the game. We believe this will allow the Capitals to gain an edge by the end of the opening period.
Prediction – Washington to win the first period with a handicap (0) at 1.72
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