NHL Odds, Picks & Predictions: Saturday (3/7)
Let’s break down some key matchups today in the NHL. Below are our top NHL picks & predictions for Saturday, March 7th.
Saturday’s NHL Best Bets & Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Nashville Predators (+154) at Buffalo Sabres (-185) | O/U 6.5 (+102/-122)
The Sabres are on the verge of snapping their 14-year streak of not making the playoffs, the longest in the NHL. Not only are they likely playoff-bound, but they are also in contention to win the Atlantic Division, as they are currently tied with the Lightning for first place with 80 points. It was a tough start to the season, but since December 9th, the Sabres have led the league with 54 points and are in the top three in points scored and allowed during that span.
The Predators will have a tough task facing a red-hot team at a time when every point is important. They are just three points behind a Wild Card spot, but are not helping their own cause, going 5-6-4 over their last 15 games. The defense has been horrendous during that span. Since January 17th, they rank 26th in shots allowed (30.3) and 30th in goals allowed (3.93) per game.
Buffalo should pick up another two points in this matchup.
Pick: Sabres 60-Minute Moneyline (-115)
Tampa Bay Lightning (-175) at Toronto Maple Leafs (+145) | O/U 6.5 (-110/-110)
The Sabres have turned into Atlantic Division contenders due to the Lightning’s struggles. Tampa Bay has hit a recent skid, dropping four straight, putting them in danger of dropping in the standings. It's both sides of the ice that have struggled for the Bolts. The offense has only scored more than two goals once during this recent four-game span, but they have allowed four or more goals in each game.
If the Lightning are struggling, the Maple Leafs are plummeting.
Toronto is currently eight points out of a Wild Card spot, but they have a few teams to climb over. The Leafs are on an awful run, going 3-9-3 since January 21st, and their nine points are the second-fewest during that span. Their problem all season has been goaltending, ranking 28th in goals allowed. Even with how good an offensive lineup they have, it hasn't been good enough to support the team.
This is a great opportunity for Tampa Bay to get back on the winning side.
Pick: Lightning 60-Minute Moneyline (-115)