Sabres vs Sharks Prediction & Odds - 3/4/2025

The Buffalo Sabres (24-30-5) are set to host the San Jose Sharks (16-37-9) at KeyBank Center in what promises to be an intriguing matchup between two teams looking to salvage their challenging seasons.

The Sharks enter the contest with the Western Conference's lowest point total, averaging just 2.57 goals per game despite strong performances from youngsters Macklin Celebrini and William Eklund, who have combined for 30 goals and 57 assists this season.

Buffalo's offense has shown more life, producing 3.17 goals per game behind the dynamic trio of Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and JJ Peterka, who have collectively contributed 67 goals and 75 assists.

While both teams have struggled defensively this season, the Sabres hold a slight edge with goaltender James Reimer posting solid numbers including a .911 save percentage and 2.53 goals-against average.

The contrast between San Jose's league-worst defense allowing 3.70 goals per game and Buffalo's offensive capabilities could prove to be the decisive factor in this cross-conference matchup.

As these struggling teams prepare to face off, fans will be watching closely to see if the Sabres can capitalize on their home-ice advantage and whether the Sharks can snap out of their recent defensive woes that have seen them concede nine goals in their last three games.

Buffalo Sabres vs. San Jose Sharks preview

In a matchup between two struggling NHL franchises, the Buffalo Sabres are set to host the San Jose Sharks at KeyBank Center on March 4, with both teams looking to salvage something from their disappointing seasons.

The Sharks, currently occupying the basement of the Western Conference with a 16-37-9 record, have struggled mightily on both ends of the ice, managing just 2.57 goals per game while surrendering a concerning 3.70 goals against.

Buffalo, despite their own challenges and a 24-30-5 record, has shown more offensive prowess, averaging 3.17 goals per game thanks to the dynamic trio of Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and JJ Peterka, who have combined for an impressive 67 goals and 75 assists this season.

The Sharks' young duo of Macklin Celebrini and William Eklund has been a rare bright spot, contributing 30 goals and 57 assists, though the team's overall offensive depth remains a significant concern.

On the defensive front, Buffalo's Rasmus Dahlin has been a standout performer, contributing both offensively with 47 points and defensively with strong play alongside Bowen Byram.

The goaltending battle presents an interesting contrast, with Buffalo's James Reimer posting solid numbers (.911 save percentage) against San Jose's struggling Vitek Vanecek, who has recorded a disappointing .882 save percentage.

According to advanced analytics, the Sabres enter as clear favorites with a 66% win probability, largely due to their superior offensive capabilities and more reliable goaltending.

With both teams' defensive struggles this season, fans at KeyBank Center might be in for a high-scoring affair, as oddsmakers have set the over/under at 6.5 goals.

Look for the Sabres to capitalize on home ice advantage and their superior offensive firepower, while the Sharks will need to find ways to contain Buffalo's top scorers if they hope to avoid another defeat in what has been a challenging season.