Tip: Can Buffalo Sabres close the gap to New York Islanders?

Two in-form teams will face each other. After six consecutive wins, the New York Islanders finally faced defeat last time against the Los Angeles Kings. The Buffalo Sabres come from two convincing wins, first against the Edmonton Oilers where they won in a shootout, and most recently, they ran over the Detroit Red Wings, winning by a wide margin of 7-3.

Strong Start for Bowen Byram

The recently traded Bowen Byram has made a strong start for the Sabres, scoring two goals against the Detroit Red Wings last time. Byram gives the Buffalo Sabres additional offensive weapons from the blue line, and together with fellow defenseman Rasmus Dahlin, the Sabres have a strong offensive pair of defensemen, both in 5-on-5 and in powerplay situations. Apart from some losses against strong opposition, Buffalo has looked significantly better in recent months. The gap to the last Wild Card spot is a whole five points, and with two more games played than the Islanders, it's a tough challenge. However, the play has been convincing, and even though the Islanders have performed well in their matches, I sense an advantage for the home team.

Two Strong Goalies Face Off

The New York Islanders have the advantage of having two very good goalies to choose from. Ilya Sorokin was last year's goalie giant in the NHL but has not quite reached the same level this season. When Sorokin is not guarding the goal for the New York Islanders, Semyon Varlamov takes on the task. Overall, the New York Islanders have the privilege of having two very good goalies, but the goalie I want to highlight plays for the Buffalo Sabres. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has been one of Buffalo's absolute best players. Thanks to the Finnish goalie, the Buffalo Sabres are still in a position to compete for a playoff spot. He has performed far beyond expectations this season and creates a sense of security in the rear guard. Something that is especially needed in a team like the Buffalo Sabres, which sometimes tends to allow a bit too many chances against.

Betting Tips and Conclusion

It's two teams that have shown a high level of play lately that will face each other at the KeyBank Center tonight. However, I think that the Buffalo Sabres have shown a higher level in their recent matches and with the advantage of playing at home, I believe they should be considered favorites in the match. I do not want to take anything away from the New York Islanders' efforts, but their recent victories have been against weaker opponents such as the Anaheim Ducks and the San Jose Sharks. I think that Bowen Byron has been a positive injection in the Buffalo Sabres, and I believe the Sabres will build on the momentum they have created and take an important victory against the New York team at Key Bank Center!

Buffalo Sabres FT @ +145 på bet365!