Buffalo Sabres vs Columbus Blue Jackets

Columbus rolls into this crucial matchup riding a modest two-game winning streak, while the Sabres limp in after dropping three straight, making momentum a clear advantage for the home side. Buffalo’s offense—which has already been inconsistent—looks even shakier. With both teams outside the playoff window but still mathematically alive, this game feels like a skater’s gut-check. It’s also worth noting that the Blue Jackets have won 3 of their last 4 home games against the Sabres and still dress a slightly healthier lineup. Given these factors, backing Columbus at -135 offers decent value, although the moderate odds and Buffalo’s volatile attack prevent this from being a top-tier lock. Recommendation: Take the Jackets on the Moneyline at home. Pick Grade: B. Odds and availability are subject to change.

Coming off a three-game win streak, the Blue Jackets are carrying some much-needed momentum into Buffalo, where the Sabres—wallowing after dropping four of their last five—must rely heavily Ukko-Pekka Luukonen, who’s seen diminishing returns in net lately. With Tage Thompson heating up after scoring in back-to-back games and Rasmus Dahlin continuing to push the pace from the blue line, the Sabres are always capable of putting pucks on net, even as they struggle to keep them out. For the Jackets, Boone Jenner has enjoyed strong career numbers against Buffalo, while rookie Adam Fantilli continues to impress. Meanwhile, Buffalo will likely be without forward Jack Quinn and defenseman Mattias Samuelsson, weakening their ability to shut down Columbus’s versatile forward group. Both squads are clinging to mathematical playoff hopes, so expect an aggressive, risk-taking style of play from teams with little left to lose. With shaky goaltending and playoff desperation blending into an open-ice shootout potential, the Over 6.5 is a strong play. The value at even odds bumps it to a solid B+ despite some goaltending volatility. Odds and availability are subject to change.

The Columbus Blue Jackets come into Buffalo on Thursday night riding a steady three-game win streak, compared to the Sabres’ two straight losses, casting some doubt on the home team’s ability to finish the season strong. With Tage Thompson still questionable due to a nagging lower-body injury, the Sabres are missing a crucial net-front presence just when their playoff hopes hang by a thread.  While both teams hover near mediocrity, Columbus has shown more cohesion of late, benefitting from the recent return of goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, whose numbers versus the Sabres have been solid. Neither club sits in the postseason picture firmly, and desperation is ramping up. But with Buffalo already showing signs of slumping and Columbus playing loose and confident, backing the Jackets to cover +1.5 on the puckline holds decent value despite the -180 odds. If Columbus’ scoring depth maintains its current pace, they’ve got a good shot to keep it close. Odds and availability are subject to change.