Buffalo vs Boston: The Sabres to get in trouble with Boston

Boston had an unsuccessful visit to Philadelphia, losing to the Flyers 3-6. Next, Bruce Cassidy’s team travels to Buffalo. Will the Bruins manage to beat the Sabres, who have won three games in a row? We’ll pick a few options to bet on at once.

Don Granato’s team begins the 2021/22 championship with three straight wins on home ice. First, the Sabres thrashed Montreal 5-1. Then they beat Arizona 2-1 in a shootout, then another day later, they dealt with Vancouver 5-2. After parting with their toxic superstars, could Buffalo be in for a quality season?

It’s an encouraging start, but don’t overestimate it either. The level of their rivals has not been the highest. The Canadiens are coming off a season-long losing streak, while Arizona got eight pucks from Columbus before travelling to Buffalo. The Canucks, on the other hand, lacked energy in the third period, which they lost 0-3. A long away streak had an impact. The game against Boston is the first serious test for the Sabres, after which their true level will be more or less clear.

The matchup with Philadelphia highlighted the shortcomings of the Boston Bruins. First, there was the goaltending position taken by Jeremy Swayman in the starting lineup. The young goaltender failed in the game, hitting just 18 of 23 shots (less than 80%). Linus Ullmark will almost certainly take over in Buffalo. Second, the lineup combinations. The Flyers emerged as a much more balanced team. The Bruins’ second and third units finished the game with a negative utility rating. Coyle’s and Haula’s links may be slipping in terms of defence in the current format. Bruce Cassidy’s staff has Philadelphia to thank. The shortcomings have become very apparent.

Buffalo’s brisk start should not be misleading. The team may have caught a wave and is feeling good, beating troubled or tired opponents. Boston are a team of a different level, which is probably very unhappy with how the game in Philadelphia turned out. The Sabres might get into the hot seat.

The prediction is a confident win for Boston.

• W2 for 1.76;
• Handicap 2 (-1) for 1.97.