Detroit Red Wings (13-7-3) vs. Buffalo Sabres (10-13-2)
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres 12/5/23 – The Detroit Red Wings face off against the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday evening in an Atlantic Division clash. Both teams come into this game looking to continue momentum – Detroit has won 5 of their last 6 while Buffalo has dropped 4 of their last 5. Our free NHL parlay picks see value on the visiting side here.
The Detroit Red Wings offense has been rolling recently, led by Alex DeBrincat’s team-high 23 points. His scoring touch paired with Dylan Larkin’s playmaking ability has made Detroit dangerous. Going against a Sabres defense allowing 3.48 goals per game should lead to continued success.
For Buffalo Sabres, their first line trio of Casey Mittelstadt, Rasmus Dahlin, and JJ Peterka have produced well accounting for over a third of the team’s total goals. However, scoring has been an issue as of late. Facing red-hot goalie Ville Husso who has won four straight starts makes putting pucks in the net a difficult task tonight.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres 12/5/23 Game Info
When: | Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
Where: | KeyBank Center |
TV: | ESP+ |
Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Ville Husso vs. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Ville Husso has been a brick wall in the crease during his recent hot stretch. Over his last 4 starts, he’s turned aside 128 of 134 shots faced – good for an incredible .955 save percentage. Husso has relied on his quick lateral movements and active glove hand to shut down opposing offenses. His rebound control has also vastly improved. If he continues that stingy play, goals will be very hard to come by for the Sabres.
On the other side, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has failed to find any sort of consistency between the pipes in his second NHL season. While he’s capable of stealing the occasional game, Luukkonen simply allows too many soft goals most nights. Against a dangerous Red Wings offense, he could be in for a long night if he’s not sharp right from the initial puck drop. Detroit should be able to pepper him with shots and convert on their opportunities.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Detroit Red Wings -126, Total Odds: 6.5
Detroit comes into this road tilt as moderate favorites which aligns with their recent play. The total is set at 6.5 goals which feels about right given both teams’ averages this season. Luukkonen’s inconsistencies do bring the possibility of a higher scoring night. Considering odds and trends, there is good reason to side with the visitors.
Detroit Red Wings Betting Trends
The Red Wings enter tonight’s contest having won 5 of their last 6 games overall. More specifically, they’ve had great success against the Sabres in recent years – boasting a dominant 20-8 straight up record over the past 28 head-to-head meetings. Additionally, games at Buffalo have trended to higher scores lately. The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s previous 7 road games versus the Sabres.
Buffalo Sabres Betting Trends
In contrast, Buffalo has struggled mightily at home as of late. They’ve dropped 5 of their last 6 contests at KeyBank Center. Scoring has been the main issue behind the losses, as the total has gone UNDER in 7 of the Sabres’ last 8 games as hosts. Their offense has also sputtered against Eastern Conference foes, with Buffalo going 2-8 straight up in those matchups so far this year.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres 12/05/23 Betting Picks
In evaluating the data, trends, and individual performances, this game presents an intriguing matchup. The Red Wings, with their offensive edge and recent form, seem to have a slight advantage. However, the Sabres have shown they can rise to the occasion, especially against divisional rivals.
Considering the offensive strengths of both teams and the goaltenders’ stats, a higher-scoring game could be on the cards. The Red Wings, despite their road game trends on Tuesdays, appear to be the safer pick. As for prop bets and over/under, leaning towards the over seems reasonable, given the trends and offensive capabilities on display.
For those seeking the best sports handicappers‘ insights, this game provides an excellent opportunity for strategic betting.
Free Pick and Prediction: Detroit Red Wings 4, Buffalo Sabres 3.