NHL

Buffalo vs Tampa Bay

Lightning look to spark momentum in crucial matchup

Buffalo Sabres

Sabres (35-37-6) VS Lightning (45-26-8)

Apr 13, 2025 | 17:00 ET | Amalie Arena

Tampa Bay Lightning
Moneyline Pick: Tampa Bay Lightning (-280): Grade of Pick B

Tampa Bay enters this matchup looking to halt a two-game slide, despite uncertainty surrounding a key piece on their blue line. The Buffalo Sabres, meanwhile, are coming off a loss of their own and may be without one of their top forwards, adding to their late-season challenges. While Buffalo’s defensive effort can present problems for Tampa’s attack, the home side’s urgency in solidifying playoff position should provide the edge they need to regain momentum.

This sets up well for Tampa Bay on the moneyline at -280. It’s not the biggest return, but it reflects a strong likelihood of success, earning it a B grade for both reliability and value. Tampa’s motivation at this stage of the season can’t be underestimated.

Over/Under Pick: Over 6.5, (+105) - B Grade

The Tampa Bay Lightning return home hoping to snap a two-game skid in what promises to be a high-energy matchup with the Buffalo Sabres, who also enter on the heels of a recent loss. Both teams are navigating injuries to key contributors, which could open the door for secondary scorers to step up in a game packed with playoff implications. With each side pressing to secure positioning, expect plenty of urgency—and likely some highlight-reel moments—to shape the outcome.

Given the stakes and volatility in both lineups, this one has all the ingredients for an offensive showcase. Keep an eye on player props and goal totals—there’s value in expecting the unexpected here.

Puckline Pick: Tampa Bay, -1.5 (-115) - B

The Tampa Bay Lightning are aiming to halt their two-game slide with a strong showing against a Buffalo Sabres team that's also navigating a losing streak and dealing with a depleted defensive group. Tampa’s leadership and postseason experience remain pivotal as they eye critical points in the standings. Though the game is likely to stay close throughout, the visitors’ seasoned core gives them the tools to capitalize when it matters most.

This matchup leans toward Tampa Bay for those looking at moneyline value—modest risk, but solid reasoning based on playoff urgency and the reliability of proven performers.

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