NHL Predictions | Sabres, Maple Leafs, Utah Best Bets Today
Sportsgrid Staff
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NHL Best Bets for Saturday, Nov. 2
Tonight’s NHL slate offers some exciting opportunities for bettors. The Buffalo Sabres are showing strong underlying numbers that give them an edge over the Detroit Red Wings despite being on the road, while the Utah Hockey Club looks primed to take advantage of a struggling Vegas Golden Knights team. Additionally, a high-scoring game is expected between the Toronto Maple Leafs and St. Louis Blues as the Leafs hit their offensive stride. Here’s a deep dive into today’s top picks and predictions.
Buffalo Sabres vs Detroit Red Wings
At first glance, Detroit Red Wings may appear as slight favorites on home ice against the Buffalo Sabres. However, the underlying numbers tell a different story, favoring Buffalo. Detroit has struggled in the offensive zone, ranking 30th in expected goals-for percentage this season, with a dismal 43.0%. The Red Wings’ recent stretch has been even worse, managing only 41.8% in expected goals-for over the past five games and failing to create high-danger chances.
In contrast, the Buffalo Sabres are trending in a positive direction. Their analytics show an effective defensive structure, having limited five of their last six opponents to eight or fewer high-danger chances. Buffalo may be coming off a loss, but their structure, personnel, and analytics suggest they have what it takes to secure a win tonight. Backing the Sabres at +102 offers strong value. Bettors in New York can take advantage of some great promos from legal sportsbooks in the state. Red Wings fans sticking with Detroit can do the same in Michigan.
The Pick: Sabres Moneyline +102
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. St. Louis Blues
The Toronto Maple Leafs have finally found their footing under their new head coach, resulting in a boost in offensive productivity. Toronto has racked up 13 goals across their last three games, nine of which came at five-on-five, indicating a significant upswing in output. This high-powered offense is expected to continue its streak against the St. Louis Blues, who have struggled defensively.
While the Blues emphasize defense, goaltending remains an issue. Jordan Binnington and Joel Hofer have combined for a 90.7% save percentage at five-on-five, which dips to 89.3% at all strengths. Over their last three games, these numbers have worsened to 84.5% and 81.7%, respectively, making the Blues vulnerable to Toronto’s attack. Given the Leafs’ scoring potential and the Blues’ defensive issues, taking the over 6.5 at +110 provides strong value.
The Pick: Over 6.5 +110
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Utah Hockey Club vs. Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights may have a solid record, but they’ve been overperforming compared to their underlying stats, signaling potential regression. The Golden Knights sit 27th in the league in expected goals-for percentage at just 46.7%, a weakness evident in their recent results. The team has been outplayed in seven of its last nine games. Their loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday was a warning sign, suggesting Vegas is due for a downturn.
Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club has been trending positively, showcasing a solid defense that’s held five of their last six opponents to six or fewer high-danger chances and an average of 5.7 high-danger chances across this stretch. Utah’s offense has also improved, positioning them well against a Vegas team on shaky ground. With value on the +146 moneyline, the Hockey Club is a strong bet to upset the Golden Knights in this Western Conference matchup.
The Pick: Utah Hockey Club Moneyline +146
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*All Odds Courtesy FanDuel
