Buffalo Sabres (7-9-1) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (5-10-0)
As the NHL regular season advances, one matchup – between Buffalo Sabres and Chicago Blackhawks at United Center on Sunday – has drawn significant notice in NHL betting picks. With their current 7-9-1 standing against the Blackhawks’ 5-10-0, this contest could prove pivotal as both sides aim to climb their respective standings.
Buffalo’s offense, led by Casey Mittelstadt and Jeff Skinner/JJ Peterka’s combined scoring total of 25 points, presents Chicago with a difficult challenge when defending Buffalo. To do so successfully and limit Buffalo’s scoring opportunities. However, Chicago will need to fortify their defensive strategies against its dynamic offensive line in order to stop these Sabres attacks – something their dynamic offensive line could help with. The question now lies with Chicago if their defense can hold out.
Conversely, the Blackhawks’ offense, spearheaded by the young star Connor Bedard, has shown flashes of brilliance despite the team’s overall struggles. Bedard’s impressive 20% shooting percentage and 14 points in 15 games, along with contributions from Corey Perry and Nick Foligno, bring a level of unpredictability and potency to Chicago’s forward lines. This offensive prowess will be crucial in penetrating the Sabres’ defense, which has shown vulnerabilities in recent games.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks Game Info
| When: | Sunday, November 19, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | United Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen vs. Goaltender Petr Mrazek
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of Buffalo and Petr Mrazek of Chicago are an important component to this game’s dynamics, as their goaltending duels will likely decide its outcome. Luukkonen has shown remarkable resilience as Buffalo’s goaltender; boasting a save percentage of 0.909 over eight games played and maintaining an overall goals-against average of 2.92, which demonstrates his ability to handle high pressure situations with grace. However, Luukkonen will face his biggest test against Chicago teams that are unpredictable when attacking from both ends.
On the Blackhawks side of things, veteran goaltender Petr Mrazek adds experience and an impressive save percentage of 0.919 to their defensive structure. Over nine games he faced an onslaught of shots which demonstrated both endurance and quick reactions; his 2.87 goals-against average is further proof of this ability to keep Chicago in games even when their defense falters; in this matchup his agility will help shut down Sabres forwards; not only setting an important tone in a matchup but also setting an overall tone in game play!
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Buffalo Sabres -172, Total Odds: 6.5
The current betting odds favor the Buffalo Sabres with a moneyline of -172, and the total over/under is set at 6.5, with the over at -120. These odds reflect the Sabres’ slight edge due to their offensive capabilities and recent performances, despite their struggles on the road.
Buffalo Sabres Betting Trends
Buffalo’s recent betting trends show a tendency towards lower-scoring games, with the total going UNDER in 4 of their last 5 matchups. Their struggle to secure wins in recent games, particularly on the road and against Chicago, might influence bettors to consider the under for total goals. However, their ability to occasionally break through tough defenses cannot be overlooked.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
Chicago’s betting trends are mixed, with a notable inclination towards higher-scoring games, especially in matchups against Buffalo. Their home record, however, is concerning, with 10 losses in their last 11 home games. Bettors might find value in exploring the over for total goals, considering Chicago’s offensive burst against Buffalo historically.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks 11/19/23 Betting Picks
In considering the overall analysis and betting trends, this game presents a complex scenario for betting picks. Buffalo’s offensive strength, coupled with Chicago’s defensive lapses at home, suggests a possible advantage for the Sabres. However, the Blackhawks’ offensive unpredictability, especially with Bedard leading the charge, could turn the tables.
For those looking at the top online sportsbooks, the smart pick would be on Buffalo to leverage their offensive prowess and exploit Chicago’s home game vulnerabilities. The over on the total goals seems a viable option given both teams’ offensive tendencies. Prop bets on key players like Mittelstadt or Bedard could also offer value, given their consistent scoring records.
