NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 03/27/2025

The Sabres enter this matchup with momentum, having won their last two games and showing strong determination despite being out of playoff contention. Their home record of 18-14-3 demonstrates their capability to perform at KeyBank Center.

Pittsburgh's road struggles have been evident all season, posting a disappointing 11-19-6 record away from home. Their offensive output drops significantly on the road, averaging just 2.61 goals per game compared to their season average.

The Penguins appear to have mentally checked out after their recent blowout loss to Tampa Bay, where they were effectively out of the game after the first period. Their star-studded roster has underperformed throughout the season.

Buffalo's recent offensive surge, scoring eight goals in their last two games, suggests they're finding their rhythm. At home, they've been particularly potent, averaging 3.34 goals per game.

The timing of this matchup favors Buffalo, as they face a Penguins team that seems to have lost their competitive edge. The Sabres' younger roster still has something to prove, even if playoffs are out of reach.

The Red Wings are returning from a road trip where their defense showed significant vulnerabilities, allowing 16 goals across 4 games. Their penalty kill has been particularly weak, conceding 5 power play goals on just 9 chances.

Ottawa has demonstrated effectiveness on the power play against Detroit this season, scoring 3 power play goals in their last 2 matchups. This trend suggests they can capitalize on Detroit's current penalty kill struggles.

Under new head coach Todd McLellan, Detroit's offense has shown improvement. The combination of Lucas Raymond and Dylan Larkin continues to produce consistently, while their power play leads the NHL with 59 goals.

While previous meetings this season have been low-scoring affairs, current form suggests a different pattern. Both teams have shown defensive inconsistencies while maintaining their offensive capabilities.

The Red Wings' home ice advantage typically leads to more aggressive offensive play, and their league-leading power play unit should create multiple scoring opportunities.

The Kings enter this crucial Western Conference matchup riding an impressive defensive streak, allowing just 1.6 goals per game over their last 10 contests. Their penalty kill has been exceptional, operating at 87.1% efficiency during this stretch.

Los Angeles has struggled offensively on the road this season, averaging just 2.49 goals per game away from home - ranking 27th in the NHL. This suggests they'll likely maintain their defensive focus rather than engaging in a high-scoring affair.

Colorado has demonstrated strong defensive capabilities recently, limiting opponents to 24 shots or fewer in 7 of their last 10 games. This defensive discipline will be crucial against a Kings team that thrives on systematic play.

While the Avalanche possess one of the league's most potent offenses led by Nathan MacKinnon, the Kings' current defensive form suggests they can contain Colorado's attack. The matchup shapes up to be a tactical, low-scoring battle.

Both teams recognize the playoff implications of this game, which typically leads to more conservative, defensive-minded approaches. The combination of Los Angeles' road scoring struggles and both teams' recent defensive success points toward a lower-scoring game.