Tonight's NHL best bets spotlight an intriguing matchup between the struggling Detroit Red Wings and the opportunistic Buffalo Sabres, where offensive fireworks could be on display with both teams having defensive vulnerabilities.
With the Red Wings allowing 3.19 goals per game and the Sabres surrendering 3.48, our NHL picks point to a high-scoring affair that could exceed the total of 6 goals, while Buffalo's dynamic offense led by Tage Thompson presents compelling value as road underdogs at +110.
Let's dive deeper into the analytics and matchup factors that make tonight's game a prime opportunity for savvy bettors.
NHL best bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:30 PM | Buffalo Sabres Money Line (+110)|Over 6 Goals (-110)|Tage Thompson Over 2.5 Shots on Goal (-115) |
Red Wings vs. Sabres
Wednesday, Mar 12
7:30 PM
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
The Red Wings have hit a rough patch lately, showing significant defensive vulnerabilities that the Sabres' dynamic offense could exploit. Detroit's recent form is concerning, particularly their defensive structure which has been leaking goals at an alarming rate.
Buffalo's offensive weapons, led by Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka, have been clicking lately. Their quick passing game and ability to create scoring chances in transition make them particularly dangerous against Detroit's current defensive setup.
The Sabres' defensive pairing of Rasmus Dahlin and Bowen Byram has been solid in creating turnovers and limiting quality shots. With Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen looking sharp between the pipes, they've got the defensive foundation to contain Detroit's struggling offense.
Detroit's offensive output of 2.80 goals per game isn't inspiring confidence, while Buffalo's been averaging a solid 3.13 goals. The numbers suggest Buffalo has the firepower to overcome being road underdogs.
While being away from home presents its challenges, the value on Buffalo at plus money is too good to pass up given the current form of both teams.
Recent defensive struggles from both teams point toward a potentially high-scoring affair. Detroit's allowed 23 goals in their last six games, while Buffalo's giving up 3.48 goals per game - numbers that make goal-scoring opportunities likely.
The Sabres' offensive unit, featuring Thompson, Tuch, and Peterka, has shown they can capitalize on defensive weaknesses. Their aggressive approach of crashing the net on rushes should create plenty of scoring chances.
Detroit's offensive weapons, particularly Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond, have the skill to exploit Buffalo's defensive issues. Despite their recent struggles, they're capable of contributing to a high-scoring game.
The point presence of Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power for Buffalo adds another dimension to their attack, potentially creating additional scoring opportunities from the blue line.
Both teams' recent defensive metrics suggest neither side will be able to completely shut down the other's offense, making the over an attractive play.
Thompson has been highlighted as a key offensive catalyst for the Sabres, with the article emphasizing his role in carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating scoring opportunities.
Detroit's defensive struggles, allowing 3.19 goals per game, suggest they'll have trouble containing Thompson's offensive presence and shot-creating abilities.
The Sabres' emphasis on quick passing and creating open shots plays directly into Thompson's strengths as a shooter and playmaker in the offensive zone.
With Detroit's recent defensive woes, Thompson should find plenty of space to operate and get his shots off, particularly as Buffalo's game plan clearly involves him as a primary offensive weapon.
The matchup dynamics and Thompson's role in Buffalo's offensive scheme make this prop bet particularly appealing.
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