Buffalo Sabres vs Florida Panthers Picks and Predictions October 28th 2024

Buffalo Sabres Seek Fourth Straight Win as Aleksander Barkov Returns for Panthers

The Buffalo Sabres look to continue their winning streak when they face the Florida Panthers on Monday night. Buffalo is coming off a three-game winning streak and is coming off a 5-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings. Looking to build on their success after a 6-3 comeback win over the New York Islanders, the Panthers are ready to welcome back star center Aleksander Barkov, who is expected to return after an eight-game absence.

Key return for Panthers: Barkov rejoins the team

Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, who was injured on Oct. 10, appears ready to return. Coach Paul Maurice said Barkov’s return will depend on how he performs after a recent practice, but he is expected to be in the lineup.

With Barkov out, Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett have stepped up offensively. Tkachuk had a standout performance against the Islanders, scoring twice and adding an assist, while Bennett extended his goal streak to four games. Young winger Mackie Samoskevich scored his first NHL goal, marking a special moment for the rookie as he steps up in Barkov’s absence.

The Panthers’ win over the Islanders showcased their resilience, as they rallied back from a 3-0 deficit to score six unanswered goals. Coach Maurice praised the team’s turnaround, noting the importance of quicker puck movement and more direct plays. Spencer Knight, who stopped all 19 shots he faced in the last two periods, played a significant role in securing the win.

Sabres’ Scoring Surge: Thompson and Dahlin Lead the Way

Buffalo got an impressive offensive performance from center Tage Thompson, who recorded two goals and one assist against Detroit. Thompson is currently on a six-game point streak with 10 points, solidifying his status as the primary offensive leader. Defender Rasmus Dahlin also made his presence felt with three assists, marking his 40th career game with multiple assists. Their chemistry creates a strong offensive force that the Sabres will look to exploit against Florida’s defense.

Buffalo’s front line chemistry with Thompson, JJ Peterka and Alex Tuch was on full display in the recent win. The trio controlled the tempo and had a clear advantage in shot attempts and scoring opportunities. Peterka, who has recovered from a concussion, contributed six points in five games, adding depth to the Sabres’ offensive options.

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Buffalo will also benefit from the return of forward Nicolas Aube-Couvel, who brings speed and physicality to the lineup from a lower-body injury. Coach Lindy Ruff highlighted Aube-Couvel’s puck strength, which she said will strengthen the team’s aggressive forecheck.

Key Matchups and Strategic Points

• Barkov vs. Thompson: With Barkov likely back, the Panthers’ top center will go head-to-head against Buffalo’s Thompson, a battle that could set the tone for each team’s offensive flow.
• Panthers’ Defense vs. Sabres’ Offensive Depth: With Dahlin and Peterka supporting Thompson, the Sabres have developed a multi-faceted attack. Florida’s defense, which struggled early against the Islanders, will need to contain Buffalo’s top line to avoid another deficit.
• Special Teams: Both teams have relied on timely goals, and with key scorers on each side, power plays could tip the scales in this high-stakes matchup.

Outlook

The Sabres will look to continue their momentum at home thanks to Thompson and their dynamic offensive line, but Barkov’s return gives Florida experience and stability that could give them an advantage in faceoffs and defensive assignments. Both teams are beginning to find their rhythm, making this matchup between two up-and-coming teams one to watch.