Chicago Blackhawks (12-29-2) vs. Buffalo Sabres (18-21-4)
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Buffalo Sabres 1/17/24 – Chicago Blackhawks will meet Buffalo Sabres in an intriguing NHL clash this Thursday, drawing attention from both fans and bettors for its potential outcomes and thus becoming a focal point for NHL picks today. Both teams have had their fair share of ups and downs this season; this game could mark a turning point for either.
The Blackhawks’ offensive lineup may not be among the league’s strongest, but there have been notable contributors. Nick Foligno has been an impressive left wing presence with 8 goals and 9 assists; center Philipp Kurashev leads with 23 points — 8 goals and 15 assists! However, their production will be put through rigorous scrutiny against a Buffalo Sabres defense that has shown signs of weakness but remains capable of coming through when needed – thus testing their power play opportunities as well as seeking quality shots to penetrate their defense setup.
The Sabres provide a more balanced offensive threat. Center Casey Mittelstadt leads them with 35 points from 11 goals and 24 assists, while defenseman Rasmus Dahlin contributes 12 goals and 22 assists for an optimal blend of defensive acumen and offensive prowess. Right winger Alex Tuch has 29 points including 11 goals; both provide depth to their attack. Their versatile yet swift offensive style could prove difficult for the Blackhawks’ defense to contain this season.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Buffalo Sabres 1/17/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | KeyBank Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Petr Mrazek vs. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Petr Mrazek of the Blackhawks brings both experience and resilience to goaltending for his club. With an average save percentage of 0.904 and 3.13 goals against per game averaged, his performance has included both brilliant saves and challenging matches – such as those faced against aggressive offensive teams like Carolina. Mrazek has proven his mettle when facing high-stake situations before. This experience could prove crucial against Carolina.
Conversely, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sabres shows great promise with a 0.901 save percentage and 2.91 goals against per game. While his stats might not be as impressive, Luukkonen has shown flashes of brilliance during tight games. His agility and reading of the game will be key factors when dealing with Blackhawks offensive efforts; Luukkonen could prove decisive should this game become tightly contested.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Buffalo Sabres betting odds remain undecided. Given their respective records and home ice advantage, Buffalo Sabres may be seen as favorites in terms of odds. But these will ultimately depend on both teams’ recent scoring trends and defensive performances; bettors are advised to monitor updates on these updates accordingly.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
The Blackhawks have experienced some difficulty, with a 2-3 record in their last five games and similar results against the spread (8-15 road performance ATS). Total goal scoring has also fluctuated, going OVER in two of five of those matches – suggesting cautious betting strategies when betting over/under or spread markets.
Buffalo Sabres Betting Trends
The Sabres have gone 2-3 in their last five games but have posted an improved record against the spread, at 3-2. Road game performance against the spread has been strong at 14-8 and total goals tend to favor lower-scoring matches with only 1 of their last 5 going OVER (while home games typically feature higher scoring), with 8 of their 21 home games going over in this timeframe.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Buffalo Sabres 1/17/24 Betting Picks
Looking at analysis and betting trends, this game presents intriguing dynamics. The Sabres may hold an edge thanks to their slightly better record and home advantage; however, Chicago Blackhawks possess players capable of turning things around when they find their rhythm; therefore creating the potential for an intense contest if both goaltenders perform at their best.
For premium game day predictions, this game might not be a high-scoring affair, but it’s expected to be competitive. Bettors should consider the Sabres for the spread, especially given their strong performance against the spread in home games. Prop bets on key players like Casey Mittelstadt for the Sabres and Philipp Kurashev for the Blackhawks might offer additional betting value.
This prediction anticipates an intense and close game, with the Sabres edge out the Blackhawks thanks to their slightly superior offense and home ice advantage. But expect fierce competition from both teams, keeping this matchup close and exciting for both sides.
Free Pick and Prediction: Buffalo Sabres 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2