NHL Preview: Buffalo Sabres (24-27-5) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (33-21-4)

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The upcoming NHL game between the Buffalo Sabres and the Carolina Hurricanes is set to be an exciting matchup. The game will take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Team Standings and Recent Performance

  • Carolina Hurricanes: The Hurricanes currently hold a 33-21-4 record, placing them in the second seed in the Metropolitan Division. They have been performing well at home with a 21-6-1 record. However, they are on a two-game losing streak, including a recent 4-0 loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
  • Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres have a 24-27-5 record, sitting in the eighth seed in the Atlantic Division. They have been performing well recently, winning six of their last seven games, including a 3-2 comeback victory over the Anaheim Ducks.

Key Players to Watch

  • Carolina Hurricanes:
    • Mikko Rantanen: Leading the team with 67 points (26 goals and 41 assists).
    • Martin Necas: Contributing significantly with 10 points in the last 10 games.
    • Frederik Andersen: Expected to start in goal, with a season record of 23-13-2, a 2.65 GAA, and a .903 save percentage.
  • Buffalo Sabres:
    • Jason Zucker: Leading the team with 44 points (18 goals and 26 assists).
    • Tage Thompson: Contributing significantly with 13 points in the last 10 games.
    • Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen: Expected to start in goal, with a season record of 20-18-4 and a 2.80 GAA.

Injury Updates

  • Carolina Hurricanes: No significant injuries reported for the upcoming game.
  • Buffalo Sabres: Jason Zucker is expected to play despite struggling with his skating in the previous game.

Game Analysis

Both teams are in different stages of their respective seasons. The Hurricanes are battling for a top spot in the Metropolitan Division and have been performing well at home. The Sabres, on the other hand, are fighting to stay in the playoff race and have been performing well recently. The Hurricanes have a slight edge with their home record and the recent performance of key players like Mikko Rantanen and Martin Necas. The Sabres will need strong performances from Jason Zucker and Tage Thompson, as well as solid goaltending from Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, to overcome their recent struggles.

Buffalo Sabres                                   6.5

Carolina Hurricanes                        – 218

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, February 26, 2025