The Buffalo Sabres are set to conclude their homestand on Monday, hosting the Montreal Canadiens at the KeyBank Center. This matchup features two teams currently residing in the lower echelons of the Eastern Conference standings.
The 15th-place Sabres, with a 2-3 record, will face off against the 12th-place Canadiens, who hold a record of 2 wins, 1 loss, and 1 overtime loss.
The game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET and can be viewed on MSG/MSG+, with pregame coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. For fans outside the local market, the NHL Network will provide coverage, and the radio broadcast will be available on WGR 550.
Montreal Canadiens preview
The Montreal Canadiens have started the season with a 2-1-1 record, and they're coming off an impressive 3-2 win that has propelled them to a better position within the Atlantic Division.
The Canadiens have shown promise on the offensive front, averaging 3.25 goals per game. Leading the charge are Cole Caufield and Sean Monahan, who have contributed five goals and four assists, forming a formidable top line.
Additionally, Alex Newhook, Nick Suzuki, and Tanner Pearson have combined for five goals and four assists. On the blue line, defensemen Mike Matheson and David Savard have added three assists, further bolstering the team's offensive prowess.
Buffalo Sabres preview
The Sabres, while struggling with a 2-3 record, displayed improvement in their recent 3-1 victory, bringing them within one game of an even record this season. However, their offense has raised concerns, averaging just 2.40 goals per game.
Notable contributors include Dylan Cozens and Casey Mittelstadt, with three goals and five assists between them, while defenseman Rasmus Dahlin has provided five assists. The Sabres are placing their hopes on Tage Thompson, who showed signs of resurgence by scoring in a recent game and remains an integral part of the top line.
Montreal Canadiens projected lines
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Buffalo Sabres projected lines
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Montreal Canadiens vs Buffalo Sabres: Odds and Predictions
As for the betting odds, the Sabres are favored with a moneyline of -184, making them the expected winners, while the Canadiens are considered the underdogs with a moneyline of +154. The over/under for this game is set at 6.5, promising an exciting matchup for hockey fans.