Ottawa Senators vs Buffalo Sabres Picks and Predictions January 9th 2025

Sabres and Senators Face Off Amid Tight Playoff Race

The Buffalo Sabres and Ottawa Senators meet Thursday night in a crucial Eastern Conference matchup, each team eager to make strides in the playoff race. The Sabres have found some stability after a turbulent season, while the Senators look to reclaim their scoring touch as they return home following a long road trip.

Sabres Thriving Under Adjusted System

Buffalo’s season has been a roller coaster, marked by streaks of success and frustration. After starting with three consecutive losses, the Sabres went on an impressive 11-6-1 run, including a dominant 7-2-0 stretch in November. However, a 13-game winless streak (0-10-3) left them at the bottom of the standings.

Since snapping that skid on December 23, Buffalo has gone 4-2-1, showing signs of revival. A key factor in their improved play has been head coach Lindy Ruff’s adjustments to the team’s system.

“We’ve changed quite a few things about the way we play,” Ruff said. “Our puck support has been a lot better, and I think we’re on our way out of it.”

One player benefiting from these changes is JJ Peterka, who has rediscovered his form. Though goals have been scarce—just two in his past 16 games—Peterka has 12 points in his last 11 outings, including a three-game point streak capped by two assists in a 4-3 shootout win over the Washington Capitals on Monday.

“I think as long as I can play with speed and move the puck quick, I think it’s been good,” Peterka said. “I still want to produce more in those tight games.”

Senators Return Home, Seeking Offense

The Ottawa Senators are back on home ice after a grueling nine-game road trip necessitated by the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. The Senators finished the trip 4-4-1, closing it out with a 3-2 overtime loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday.

Captain Brady Tkachuk is keeping the team focused on the bigger picture as Ottawa sits just one point out of a playoff spot.

“We’re right in the mix,” Tkachuk said. “The next 43 games are going to be a hell of a ride. You’ve got to appreciate you got a point in this tight race.”

However, Ottawa has struggled to score, managing just 10 goals in their past six games. Leading scorer Tim Stutzle, who has 41 points (12 goals, 29 assists) this season, has been quieter of late with just four points in his last eight games.

Despite the offensive woes, the Senators remain optimistic as they look to take advantage of home ice.

Key Matchup: Sabres’ System vs. Senators’ Home Edge

For the Sabres, their retooled system has brought improved puck support and defensive stability, which will be tested against an Ottawa team eager to bounce back. Buffalo will rely on Peterka’s playmaking and Alex Tuch’s offensive presence to build on their recent success.

The Senators, meanwhile, must find ways to reignite their offense. Stutzle and Tkachuk will need to generate opportunities while the team focuses on capitalizing on special teams and creating high-danger chances.

Breaking Down the Odds for the NHL Metropolitan Division

Crucial Game for Both Teams

With the playoff race tightening, Thursday’s game carries significant weight. Buffalo sits seven points behind the second wild-card spot, while Ottawa is just one point out, making this matchup an important step for both teams.

As the Sabres try to maintain their upward trajectory and the Senators look to end their scoring slump, fans can expect an intense battle at Canadian Tire Centre. This game has the potential to shape the second half of the season for both teams as they fight to stay in the postseason hunt.