Montreal Canadiens - Buffalo Sabres predictions and free betting tips [22/02/2024]

The Buffalo Sabres are set to visit the Montreal Canadiens as part of the regular NHL season.

Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens have been experiencing difficulties in recent games, losing 4 out of the past 5 matches, and allowing 21 pucks in these encounters. The recent defeats to the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals have pushed the team to concentrate on improving defence, particularly around the goalie area. Head coach Martin St. Louis emphasised the need to increase player vigilance on the rink.

The Montreal line up has some bright attackers capable of creating scoring opportunities. Notably, Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky stand out with their performances this season. Suzuki leads the team in points, with 53 points, including 20 goals and 33 assists. Caufield is in second place with 45 points. Slafkovsky also makes a significant contribution with 30 points.
Recent games have shown the team needs to focus on improving both attack and defence. Average goals scored and conceded per game suggest that Canadiens are near the bottom of the league in efficiency. Over the last month, the team has managed just 3 wins in 12 matches. In three of their losses, they allowed seven or more goals, including nine from Boston.

Buffalo Sabres

In their recent tourney against the Anaheim Ducks, the Buffalo Sabres failed to hang onto their advantage, losing 3:4 despite a significant shot advantage - 37 against 14. The team acknowledged that their careless handling of the puck was the reason for the defeat, specifically when John Gibson repelled their attacks. Despite efforts to bolster defensive play, the problems in attack evident this season continue to plague the team, who are struggling to achieve consistent results.

Sabres' captain Kyle Okposo emphasised the importance of attention to detail in play, especially when the team is having trouble scoring. Despite improved defensive play, minor lapses undermined the team in the last match. Sabres striker Jordan Greenway has been in good form, gaining five points in four recent games, but this did not help them avoid defeat by Anaheim. Additionally, the team lost due to a flawed second period when they conceded three goals. It holds 21st place in scoring league-wise and 14th place in terms of conceded goals, indicating instability in both attack and defence.

Casey Mittelstadt stands out this season, with 13 goals and 31 assists, but the team overall needs more coordinated play to achieve better results. Buffalo Sabres are trying to find their rhythm after wins and losses but need to improve both offense and defence for success.

Head-to-Head

In the current season, Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres have met on the ice thrice. The first meeting on March 28 ended with a victory for Montreal with a score of 3:1. Then, on October 24, Buffalo lost in a penalty shootout series with a score of 2:3. Finally, on December 10, Buffalo gained a convincing victory over Montreal with a score of 6:1.

Predictions for Montreal Canadiens - Buffalo Sabres match

Both teams have instability and minimal chances for the playoffs. In a match between closely matched rivals from the Eastern Conference, I expect a game leaning toward a high total. Identifying a clear favourite is tough; both Montreal and Buffalo can win 5:0 or even 7:0, after several consecutive losses.