The Vegas Golden Knights are set to face the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. The puck drops at 12:30 PM EST, and the game will be broadcast on MSG-B, SCRIPPS, and ESPN+.
Team Form and Standings
- Vegas Golden Knights: The Golden Knights are having a stellar season with a 39-19-7 record, sitting atop the Pacific Division. They are coming off a dominant 4-0 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets, marking their seventh win in the last 10 games. Vegas has been solid on the road, with a 15-12-4 record, and will look to extend their lead in the division.
- Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres, on the other hand, are struggling with a 25-33-6 record, placing them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. They are coming off a disappointing 7-3 loss to the Detroit Red Wings, where turnovers proved costly. Buffalo has a 16-14-3 home record and will aim to bounce back in front of their fans.
Key Players to Watch
- Vegas Golden Knights:
- Jack Eichel: The former Sabres captain has been a key contributor for Vegas, leading the team with 27 goals and 39 assists this season. This game marks another return to Buffalo for Eichel, who has been instrumental in the Golden Knights’ success.
- Adin Hill: Hill recorded a shutout in the last game against Columbus, stopping all 27 shots. He has been a reliable presence in goal for Vegas.
- Mark Stone: Stone continues to be a two-way force, contributing offensively and defensively with 21 goals and 34 assists.
- Buffalo Sabres:
- Tage Thompson: Thompson leads the Sabres with 34 goals and 28 assists, making him the focal point of Buffalo’s offense.
- Rasmus Dahlin: The dynamic defenseman has been a bright spot for Buffalo, tallying 15 goals and 42 assists while anchoring the blue line.
- Alex Tuch: The former Golden Knight has been a consistent performer for Buffalo, contributing 28 goals and 25 assists.
Matchup Insights
- The Golden Knights won the previous meeting between these teams 3-1 on January 4, 2025. Vegas’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and control the pace of play was key in that victory.
- Buffalo has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 3.8 goals per game in their last 10 outings, while Vegas has been strong offensively, averaging 3.8 goals per game in the same span.
- Special teams could play a significant role, as the Golden Knights boast a solid penalty kill, while the Sabres have been inconsistent on the power play.
Injuries and Lineups
- Vegas Golden Knights: The Golden Knights are dealing with injuries to key players, including William Karlsson (lower body) and Shea Theodore (upper body), both of whom are sidelined.
- Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres will be without JJ Peterka (lower body) and Josh Norris (undisclosed), while Jacob Bernard-Docker is expected to make his debut after being acquired at the trade deadline.
