The Blackhawks and Sabres will play tonight since their game was postponed last night. It will be their second meeting of the season. The Sabres won the first one 3-2 and have won 3 of their last 5 games. The Blackhawks have lost 3 of their last 4 and they just played last night where they beat the Sharks in a shootout. Let's get into our Blackhawks vs Sabres Prediction - NHL Picks 1/18/24.
Chicago Blackhawks:
The Blackhawks come into this game after a 2-1 win against the San Jose Sharks, holding a record of 13-29-2. They average 2.23 goals per game but struggle defensively, conceding an average of 3.59 goals per game. Their power play success rate is relatively low at 13.1%, and their penalty kill rate stands at 75.7%.
Key player Connor Bedard has been productive for Chicago with 15 goals and 18 assists. However, the team will miss several players due to injuries, including Bedard himself, which could impact their performance offensively.
Buffalo Sabres Overview:
The Sabres, with a season record of 19-21-4, enter this game after a 3-0 win against the San Jose Sharks. They score an average of 2.95 goals per game and allow 3.23 goals against. Their power play and penalty kill rates are slightly better than the Blackhawks', at 14.4% and 79.1% respectively.
Casey Mittelstadt has been a significant contributor for Buffalo this season, tallying 38 points from 12 goals and 26 assists. The Sabres, however, will be without Jeff Skinner, which could affect their offensive capabilities.
Game Prediction:
The Sabres are favored in this matchup, particularly given the Blackhawks' struggles this season and the absence of several key players due to injuries. The Sabres' recent form and slightly better defensive stats give them an edge over the Blackhawks.
The game could be lower-scoring, considering both teams' offensive challenges and goaltending issues. The prediction leans towards a Buffalo victory in a low scoring game.
The Blackhawks have gone under 6.5 in 4 of their last 5 games and the Sabres have gone under 6.5 in 3 of their last 5 games.
Best Bet:
Blackhawks / Sabres Under (6)
