Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is between the Buffalo Sabres and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
NHL Predictions: Buffalo Sabres vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Colorado Avalanche vs Montreal Canadiens
Head to Head: Avalanche 0-0 Canadiens
Our first game on the NHL Predictions is interconference play. The Colorado Avalanche matchup against the Montreal Canadiens. Each team is headed in opposite directions, but still something worth fighting for.
Colorado has been in a slump lately, but is coming off a 3-2 victory against Arizona. Their schedule is easy down the stretch, with four of their next five games are against non-contenders. What better way to right the ship with this stretch? However, Montreal has been competitive. Heck, they held the Devils to just two goals in their last meeting. It won’t come easy, but a Colorado victory should be in the works.
Prediction: Avalanche defeat Canadiens 3-1
Dallas Stars vs Seattle Kraken
Head to Head: Stars 1-0 Kraken
Our next game on the NHL Predictions is a rematch from the other night. The Seattle Kraken takes on the Dallas Stars. Miro The Hero Heiskanen ended the game in overtime for the win. This is the second of three meetings in the month of March.
Both teams are fighting for every inch fit better seeding come playoffs. Newcomers Evgeni Dadonov and Max Domi have been great for the club. In addition, they are nearly point-per-game players. Jake Oettinger and Phillip Grubauer could see the crease again in a rematch.
Prediction: Kraken defeat Stars 3-2
Buffalo Sabres vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Head to Head: Sabres 0-0 Maple Leafs
Our featured game on the NHL Predictions is an Atlantic Division showdown. The Buffalo Sabres travel to take on the Toronto Maple Leafs. While Toronto has a spot locked up just about, Buffalo is fighting for every two points.
Toronto is without newcomer Ryan O’Reilly, but that has not slowed them down. They put a beatdown on the Edmonton Oilers as they have the depth to match anyone. Buffalo is slumping at the worst possible time. They’ve lost four in a row, including an overtime loss to the New York Rangers the other night.
Offence will be on full display. Both the Maple Leafs (7th) and Sabres (3rd) rank in average goals per game. In addition, the team’s have the 3rd and 4th best power plays in the league. Keeping the game at 5v5 would be more than ideal for these clubs. Each team’s goalie will need to be at their best. Toronto has confirmed Matt Murray will start in net. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to start, but that can change prior to puck drop.
Prediction: Maple Leafs defeat Sabres 4-2
Main Photo: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
