Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres – The Detroit Red Wings (13-7-3) take on the Buffalo Sabres (10-13-2) on Tuesday night in a clash of Atlantic Division foes. Detroit has won 5 of its last 6 games and looks to keep rolling with another victory. However, Buffalo has given Detroit trouble recently, as the Red Wings are just 1-4 in their last 5 matchups with the Sabres. This should be a competitive battle between two teams aiming to get back into the playoff picture. Read on for a full breakdown of the game including analysis, odds, and our top winning NHL picks.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres
Date & Time: Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET
Location: KeyBank Center
TV: ESP+
Detroit Red Wings vs Buffalo Sabres Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Puckline | Total |
| Red Wings | -126 | -1.5 (+211) | 6.5 over (-118) |
| Sabres | +105 | +1.5 (-246) | 6.5 under (+102) |
Detroit Red Wings Analysis
The Red Wings enter Tuesday’s contest boasting one of the most potent offensive attacks in the league. They are led by the dynamic duo of wingers Alex DeBrincat and J.T Compher, who have combined for 32 points. Dylan Larkin anchors the offense from the center position with 22 points of his own. This trio should be able to exploit a Sabres defense that is giving up 3.48 goals per game. However, Detroit’s own defensive issues could haunt them, as they allow 3.26 goals against per game. Goaltender Ville Husso will need to be sharp to counter Buffalo’s speedy forwards.
On the defensive side, Detroit lacks shutdown defensemen to contain the Sabres scorers. Husso has been inconsistent in net, posting a subpar .891 save percentage. If Detroit’s defensive lapses continue, they could be in trouble against a sneaky good Buffalo offense.
Buffalo Sabres Analysis
While less heralded than their opponent, Buffalo boasts decent offensive depth led by center Casey Mittelstadt’s 21 points. Young wingers like JJ Peterka and Jack Quinn provide secondary scoring behind Mittelstadt. However, goals have still been tough to come by for the Sabres, as evident by their 2.88 goals per game average.
Defensively is where Buffalo shines, thanks to stalwart Rasmus Dahlin on the blueline and the steady goalkeeping of Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Luukkonen has posted a .907 save percentage this year behind a defense that allows just 3.04 goals against per contest. If Luukkonen can stymy Detroit’s offense, then Buffalo’s offense may just need to scratch out a couple goals to secure the win on home ice where they’ve defended well this season.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres Against the Spread
Detroit is 5-1 straight up (SU) in their last 6 games but they have struggled to cover the puckline, going just 1-4 against the spread (ATS) in their previous 5 contests against Buffalo. The Red Wings offense should flourish against the Sabres, but their defensive issues make it hard to trust them giving up 1.5 goals on the puckline.
Meanwhile, Buffalo has really struggled lately, going 1-4 SU in their last 5 matches. But they play stingy defense at home, having allowed over 6.5 total goals in just 2 of their last 8 home games. The under on the total along with getting +1.5 goals on the puckline seem like smart bets for the Sabres tonight.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, and team statistics, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Red Wings -126
Detroit’s offense is too dynamic right now behind DeBrincat, Larkin and Compher to contain. Meanwhile, Buffalo lacks the offensive firepower to keep pace. Husso should make enough saves for Detroit’s offense to carry them to a close road win.
Spread: Sabres +1.5 (-246)
The Red Wings have not shown an ability lately to cover the puckline against good defensive teams like the Sabres. Their own defensive issues also make giving up 1.5 goals risky despite having the better offense in this matchup.
Total: 6.5 under (+102)
Two sound defensive teams meet in Buffalo, who plays extremely well in their home barn. Luukkonen and the Sabres defense should limit Detroit’s scorers enough to keep this game Under the projected total.
Predicted Score: Detroit Red Wings 4, Buffalo Sabres 3
In conclusion, while the Red Wings appear to have the upper hand, the Sabres’ ability to rise to the occasion, especially at home, should not be underestimated. For those looking at the top betting sites in Canada, the moneyline on Detroit seems like the most reliable pick, with the total points offering a tempting opportunity for bettors seeking a more adventurous wager.
