Buffalo Sabres (15-19-4) vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (18-14-4)
Buffalo Sabres vs. Pittsburgh Penguins 1/6/24 – On Saturday night, Buffalo Sabres and Pittsburgh Penguins will face off in another exciting NHL regular season matchup at PPG Paints Arena, promising an amazing display of skill and strategy – essential viewing for followers looking for NHL free tips and advice! Tune into ESPN+ from 7:00 PM ET for this thrilling encounter that promises more than just entertainment – it will also serve as an epic battle of wills on an icy rink.
Buffalo Sabres have emerged as a formidable offensive power, even with their dismal win-loss record. Center Casey Mittelstadt leads their charge with 31 points from 38 games played; defenseman Rasmus Dahlin and left winger Jeff Skinner contribute depth and scoring prowess; Dahlin boasting an impressive 9.1% shooting percentage and Skinner 12-11%; they could potentially overcome Pittsburgh’s resilient and tactical positioning defense led by Kris Letang and Brian Dumoulin who make them difficult targets for Sabres’ attackers.
On the other side of things, Pittsburgh Penguins’ offense is led by left winger Jake Guentzel and legendary center Sidney Crosby, respectively. Guentzel boasts 42 points in 17 goals while Crosby has 38 total. Evgeni Malkin provides balance with 32 total. Their swift puck movements and strategic plays will put pressure on Buffalo Sabres defense that has proven vulnerable at times; Dahlin and Henri Jokiharju will play pivotal roles as they face off against one another on offense and defense respectively.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Pittsburgh Penguins 1/6/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | PPG Paints Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen vs. Goaltender Tristan Jarry
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has posted mediocre numbers in his first full NHL season. Through 18 games, this netminder owns a 3.13 GAA and .892 save percentage. Now, he faces one of the league’s top offenses on the road. Unless Luukkonen stands on his head on Saturday, expect the Penguins to light the lamp multiple times.
On the other side, Tristan Jarry has come back down to earth after his breakout 2021-22 campaign. This year, Jarry registers a 2.58 GAA and .912 save percentage over 25 contests. Lately, he’s fought inconsistency, allowing three or more goals in eight of his past 13 starts. Considering Buffalo’s scoring woes, Jarry needs to bring his A-game here.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As betting odds for this matchup have yet to be set, the focus will shift toward each team’s performances and historical data. While the Sabres have an unfavorable record on the road, their road resilience has shown through and their home performances varied. Bettors should consider these aspects alongside recent forms and head-to-head statistics before placing their bets.
Buffalo Sabres Betting Trends
The Sabres have seen mixed results recently, posting a 2-3 record over their last five games. Their record against the spread, particularly away games (12-8), shows they tend to exceed expectations when away. Yet bettors should keep an eye out for any inconsistency with scoring seen recently; such consideration should also apply when betting against them.
Pittsburgh Penguins Betting Trends
The Penguins have struggled over their last five games and against the spread, finishing 1-4 overall and 8-10 at home against the spread against this opponent. Their home record against this spread indicates vulnerabilities for Sabres to exploit; yet their scoring ability should not be underestimated at home.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Pittsburgh Penguins 1/6/24 Betting Picks
Assessing this matchup reveals both teams have their own set of strengths and weaknesses. While the Penguins boast superior offense and goaltending, their opponent could surprise with its resilience – particularly on the road – making this game much closer than expected; making the over an attractive bet option.
Given their dynamics and recent forms, Pittsburgh appears to be the more likely winner, though by only a narrow margin. Prop bets focusing on individual player performances like points scored by Crosby or Mittelstadt could provide value; though Pittsburgh seems the safer choice overall. Furthermore, its unpredictability and road form make the Sabres interesting picks for bettors.
Handicapping top services would likely lean towards a Penguins victory, but with caution given the unpredictability of the Sabres. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, with opportunities for both teams to defy expectations.
Free Pick and Prediction: Pittsburgh Penguins 4, Buffalo Sabres 3.