Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Vegas Golden Knights are battling for the top spot in the Pacific Division, which would secure a more favourable first-round opponent in the playoffs. However, they are experiencing a rough patch and need a win to maintain their lead over the chasing pack. The Buffalo Sabres, meanwhile, are virtually out of playoff contention but tend to perform better at home, where they have collected 53% of available points.
Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres have endured a disastrous season, losing seven of their last eight games while conceding 37 goals in that span. This includes heavy defeats against the Detroit Red Wings (7 conceded), the San Jose Sharks (6), and the Tampa Bay Lightning (6). Defensive frailties remain their biggest issue, with 227 goals conceded—the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference, ahead of only the Pittsburgh Penguins (247). Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has struggled under the pressure, posting an average save percentage of just 88.9%.
Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights have won eight of their last 11 games, netting 41 goals (3.72 per game) during that stretch. They rank sixth in the league for total goals scored (219) and seventh in defensive reliability (177 goals conceded). Their goaltending has been exceptional, recording three shutouts in their last six outings while allowing just nine goals in that span (1.5 per game).
Buffalo Sabres vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction
The Vegas Golden Knights are a well-structured and balanced team, unlike the erratic and defensively shaky Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres have conceded an average of 4.7 goals per game over their last six outings, which should provide ample scoring opportunities for the Golden Knights.
