Toronto Maple Leaf vs Buffalo Sabres 2/21/2023 Expert Picks, Odds and Prediction
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET, NHL action will see the Toronto Maple Leafs take on the Buffalo Sabres at the KeyBank Center in New York. This season, the Maple Leafs’ offense has been impressive, scoring an average of 3.40 goals per game, with 13 goals in their last three matches. Leading the charge are the top two lines, featuring Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander, who have combined for an impressive 76 goals and 112 assists. The rest of the team’s attack has also been formidable, with defensemen Morgan Rielly and Rasmus Sandin contributing six goals and 42 assists to the cause. This, along with individual contributions from John Tavares, Michael Bunting, and Calle Jarnkrok, has led to a potent offensive unit.
The team’s defense has also seen improvement, conceding an average of just 2.67 goals per game. To add depth to the backline, Rasmus Sandin and Justin Holl have combined for 5.7 defensive point shares, while Mark Giordano and Timothy Liljegren have contributed 7.2 defensive point shares and an impressive 177 blocked shots. In goal, Ilya Samsonov has performed admirably, posting a.915 save percentage, a 2.38 goals-against average on 768 shots, and stopping 7.6 more goals than the league average.
All in all, the Maple Leafs appear to be a formidable force this season, with a potent offense and an improving defense. The upcoming game against the Buffalo Sabres should provide an excellent opportunity for the team to showcase their skills and continue their winning ways.
- The total went OVER in 9 of Toronto’s last 10 games on the road with Buffalo.
- Toronto is 2-5 SU in their last 7 games against an opponent in the Atlantic Division.
- The total hung OVER in 6 of Toronto’s last 8 games played in February.
Toronto Maple Leaf vs Buffalo Sabres 2/21/2023 Expert Picks, Odds and Prediction
The Sabres‘ attack has been dominant this season, averaging 3.70 goals per game and scoring 11 goals in the last two matches. The top two lines, comprised of Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and Jeff Skinner, have contributed an impressive 83 goals and 100 assists, while the rest of the offense has also been solid. Defensemen Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power have boosted the attack with 18 goals and 61 assists from the point, along with 52 goals and 61 assists from Dylan Cozens, Casey Mittelstadt, and Victor Olofsson.
Unfortunately, the Sabres’ defense has been a major issue, allowing an average of 3.44 goals per game. Dahlin and Power have combined for 6.6 defensive point shares, but the rest of the team has struggled, leaving opponents with too many open opportunities. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has also had difficulties, with a.897 save percentage, a 3.41 goals-against average on 766 shots, and -6.6 goals saved above average.
- The total went OVER in 14 of Buffalo’s last 19 games against Toronto.
- The Buffalo Bulls are 2-6 SU in their last 8 games at home.
- The total hung OVER in 9 of Buffalo’s last 10 games at home with the Maple Leafs.
Toronto Maple Leaf vs Buffalo Sabres. The NHL pick for this game is the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres, coming off consecutive wins, are eager to continue their success at home, but they face a tough challenge against the Maple Leafs, who have been performing incredibly well this season. Led by a potent forward group, including Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch, the Sabres boast an impressive average of 3.70 goals per game, with their excellent puck movement generating numerous scoring opportunities. The defense, anchored by Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, will aim to disrupt the Maple Leafs’ offense with turnovers in the offensive zone and limit their shot attempts, giving goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen ample opportunities to make key saves.
Despite the Sabres’ recent success, the Maple Leafs are still the favorites in this game and will be looking to add another victory to their already impressive record. The Sabres will have to be at their best to overcome their opponents, but playing at home should give them an added advantage. The game is predicted to be high-scoring, with both teams possessing potent offenses, but the Sabres are expected to emerge victorious with a score of 5-3, providing excellent odds as underdogs.
NHL Starting Time: 7:30 PM (EDT)
Location: KeyBank Center, NY
Date: Tuesday, February 21, 2023
TV: ESP+
NHL Odds: Toronto Maple Leaf -160
NHL Totals: 6.5
