Boston Bruins vs Buffalo Sabres Picks and Predictions December 21st 2024

Bruins attempt to extend Sabres’ 12-game losing streak

The Boston Bruins return home Saturday after a mixed but ultimately encouraging Western Conference road trip. Their challenge? Capitalize on their momentum against the Buffalo Sabres, a team desperately seeking to end an NHL season-worst 12-game losing streak.

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Bruins: Building on Resilience

After a rocky start to their five-game trip with heavy losses to Winnipeg and Seattle, the Bruins rebounded with an all-around team effort. Wins against Vancouver and Calgary showcased their resilience, as did a hard-fought overtime loss to Edmonton on Thursday.

Interim head coach Joe Sacco praised the team’s growth.
“The way we responded after being down two, you have to admire the fact that the group pulled together,” Sacco said.
The Bruins took five of a possible ten points during the trip, a testament to their ability to regroup and find consistency.

Key individual performances fueled the team’s success. Captain Brad Marchand extended his longest point streak since the 2020-21 season to eight games, and Morgan Geekie and Marc McLaughlin each scored in consecutive matches. In goal, Jeremy Swayman solidified his status as a dependable No. 1 netminder, going 2-1-1 in four starts during the road trip.
“It shows what kind of team we have,” Swayman said. “The belief, the leadership—it’s a core part of it. We didn’t take no for an answer, and that’s really good to see at this point in the year.”

Sabres: Searching for Answers

The Sabres arrive in Boston burdened by a 12-game winless streak (0-9-3). Their recent struggles were exemplified in a lopsided 6-3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday and a 6-1 defeat to Montreal earlier in the week.

A sputtering power play is part of the problem; Buffalo has converted only twice in its last 37 chances over 14 games. Defensive lapses have compounded the issue, forcing head coach Lindy Ruff to make mid-game goalie changes, as seen Friday when Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was pulled after allowing three second-period goals.

Despite their troubles, the Sabres have shown flashes of potential. Forward JJ Peterka has been a standout performer, recording five points in his last three games. The return of team captain Rasmus Dahlin, who missed seven games with back spasms, also offers a glimmer of hope.
“Any time you get a player of his caliber back, it’s a big boost,” Ruff said. “He’s a difference-maker with big plays and speed.”

Buffalo’s injury woes continue, however. Forward Jordan Greenway underwent surgery and is expected to miss significant time, while other key players work to regain form after extended absences.

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A Tale of Contrasts

Saturday’s matchup pits a Bruins team gaining confidence against a Sabres squad desperate to break out of their funk. Boston’s depth and leadership, led by Marchand and Swayman, give them a clear edge. Meanwhile, Buffalo will need to find a way to overcome their defensive vulnerabilities and capitalize on scoring opportunities to stay competitive.

The game also serves as an important litmus test for both teams. For the Bruins, it’s a chance to solidify their position as a playoff contender by continuing their upward trajectory. For the Sabres, it’s an opportunity to regroup, end their losing streak, and restore some pride.

Key Players to Watch

• Boston Bruins: Brad Marchand (8-game point streak), Jeremy Swayman (2-1-1 in his last four starts).
• Buffalo Sabres: JJ Peterka (5 points in 3 games), Rasmus Dahlin (returning from injury).

Conclusion

With one team riding the wave of resilience and another fighting to stay afloat, Saturday’s showdown promises to be an intriguing contest. The Bruins will look to extend their momentum at home, while the Sabres hope to rewrite their story and snap their losing streak.

Will the Bruins’ consistency overpower the Sabres’ desperation, or can Buffalo dig deep and stage an upset? Hockey fans won’t want to miss this clash of determination versus adversity.