Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks 11/19/23 – On Sunday, two exciting NHL matchups are set to occur: Buffalo Sabres are currently sitting at 7-9-1 while Chicago Blackhawks hold a 5-10-0 record – this match promises to be pivotal as both teams look to improve their standings in this contest. Spectators looking for the latest NHL picks should note both teams have demonstrated different performances this season.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks
Date & Time: Sunday, November 19, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET
Location: United Center
TV: ESPN+
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks 11/19/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Puckline | Total |
| Sabres | -172 | -1.5 +143 | 6.5 over -120 |
| Blackhawks | +139 | +1.5 -170 | 6.5 under +104 |
Buffalo Sabres Analysis
Buffalo Sabres offense led by Casey Mittelstadt and Jeff Skinner has shown promise yet has yet to achieve consistency. Mittelstadt’s playmaking abilities, evidenced by 10 assists he has amassed, are essential in creating scoring chances. Skinner will play an instrumental role in breaking through Chicago’s tight defense. His seven goals lead the Sabres, making him their main source of scoring, while his agility and shooting accuracy will allow them to penetrate Chicago’s defenses successfully. JJ Peterka stands out among his teammates with seven goals and five assists demonstrating his emerging talent. However, overall offensive efficiency needs improvement as they struggle to convert chances into goals; something which may play a significant role in this matchup.
On the defensive side, the Sabres depend heavily on goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen who boasts a save percentage of 0.909. Despite his good play, their overall defense has been inconsistent, leaving Luukkonen vulnerable. If they want to beat Chicago who have struggled but still contain dangerous players such as Connor Bedard they will need to tighten up their defensive efforts quickly.
Chicago Blackhawks Analysis
The Chicago Blackhawks’ offense, led by Connor Bedard and featuring veterans like Corey Perry and Nick Foligno, has been an inspiring mix of youthful energy and experienced expertise. Bedard has been an outstanding performer since coming onto the team this season, scoring 9 goals at an astounding 20% shooting percentage. His scoring prowess will prove pivotal against the Sabres’ defense. Perry and Foligno add depth to the attack, but their contributions have been inconsistent. For optimal success against Buffalo, more consistent scoring from secondary scorers will complement Bedard’s efforts more effectively. Furthermore, Buffalo has weak penalty killing capabilities which must be exploited more aggressively through improved power play performance by Chicago.
Petr Mrazek has been one of the highlights for Chicago, boasting an outstanding 0.919 save percentage. Unfortunately, defensive slip-ups – particularly at home games – have been an ongoing problem; to effectively counter Buffalo’s attacks (though less potency), which have the capacity to exploit gaps.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks Against the Spread
The Sabres have shown a tendency to go UNDER the total in recent games, which could indicate a more defensive approach or struggles in finishing. Their poor record on the road and specifically in Chicago hints at potential psychological barriers or matchup issues.
For the Blackhawks, the trend of going OVER against Buffalo and their strong home record against the Sabres are notable. However, their recent overall home performance has been lacking, indicating possible vulnerabilities that Buffalo could exploit.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks Free Pick
Based on the odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are our picks for this matchup:
Moneyline: Blackhawks +139
Despite their struggles, Chicago’s historical edge over Buffalo at home and their potential to capitalize on Buffalo’s road woes tilt the scales in their favor.
Spread: Sabres -1.5 (+143)
Buffalo could surprise given their need to bounce back and Chicago’s defensive issues.
Total: 6.5 under (+104)
Both teams have shown trends towards lower-scoring games, and with both goaltenders performing reasonably well, a lower-scoring affair seems likely.
Predicted Score: Buffalo Sabres 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2
Though both teams have experienced their fair share of struggles, historical trends and current form suggest this matchup will be tight. Chicago Blackhawks appear to be the more reliable choice on the Moneyline because of their historic dominance at home against Buffalo. Bettors seeking insight in this Best Sportsbook in Canada game may find this game an intriguing mixture of trends and stats to consider.
