Columbus Blue Jackets vs Buffalo Sabres 2/28/2023 Odds, Picks and Previews
In upcoming NHL action at KeyBank Center in NY, the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off against the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET. The Blue Jackets have been struggling to find the back of the net lately, with a meager 2.55 goals per game and only 10 goals in their last four games.
Despite the offensive struggles, the Blue Jackets’ defense has also been faltering, allowing an average of 3.68 goals per game. Andrew Peeke and Erik Gudbranson have been the only bright spots on the defensive side, collaborating for 3.1 defensive point shares. However, their efforts have not been enough, as opponents continue to find open opportunities on goal. Joonas Korpisalo has been a standout player, with a 3.17 goals-against average on 926 shots and a .911 save percentage, with 5.6 goals saved above average. As the Blue Jackets prepare to take on the Sabres, they will need to find a way to ignite their offense and tighten up their defense to turn their season around.
- Columbus is 3-17 SU in their last 20 games against an opponent in the Eastern Conference.
- The total stayed UNDER in 9 of the Columbus Jacket’ last 11 games played in February.
- The total remained UNDER in 8 of Columbus’ last 10 games played on a Tuesday when on the road.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Buffalo Sabres 2/28/2023 Odds, Picks and Previews
The Buffalo Sabres are enjoying a tremendous season, thanks to their explosive attack, which has been averaging an impressive 3.78 goals per game. In their last three games alone, the Sabres have scored a total of 16 goals, with their top line players, Tage Thompson and Jeff Skinner, leading the charge with a combined 65 goals and 73 assists. But it’s not just the top line that’s been excelling; the entire offense has been outstanding, with contributions coming from all around the roster. Defensemen Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power have been crucial in boosting the attack, tallying a combined 18 goals and 66 assists from the point. Meanwhile, Dylan Cozens, Casey Mittelstadt, and Victor Olofsson have combined for an impressive 55 goals and 66 assists.
While the Sabres’ offense has been firing on all cylinders, their defense has been somewhat lackluster, allowing an average of 3.48 goals per game. While Dahlin and Power have contributed 6.7 defensive point shares and blocked a combined 161 shots, the rest of the team has struggled, leaving opponents with too many open opportunities on goal. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has also had a difficult time, posting a 3.57 goals-against average on 806 shots with a.892 save percentage and -10.7 goals saved above average. As the Sabres look to continue their success, they’ll need to tighten up their defensive game.
- The total went OVER in 6 of Buffalo’s last 8 matches.
- The Buffalo Sabres are 5-1 SU in their last 6 matches.
- The total went OVER in 5 of Buffalo’s last 5 matches against Columbus.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Buffalo Sabres. The NHL pick for this game is the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres won three straight games and aim to take control of this game from the opening minutes while the Blue Jackets are trying to pull off an upset on the road. With Tage Thompson, Jeff Skinner, and the rest of the forward group pushing the puck into the offensive zone and producing open shots with rapid passes, the Sabres, who average 3.78 goals per game, should tally a lot more goals. Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power, and the rest of the defense should limit the Blue Jackets’ offense, which is only scoring 2.55 goals per game, by forcing turnovers in the offensive zone and preventing shots on goal. Buffalo will win predicted at 7-3.
NHL Starting Time: 7:30 PM (EDT)
Location: KeyBank Center, NY
Date: Tuesday, February 28, 2023
TV: ESPN+
NHL Odds: Buffalo Sabres -220
NHL Totals: 6.5
