The San Jose Sharks (16-37-9) and Buffalo Sabres (24-29-6) are set to face off in an interconference matchup on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. Both teams are looking to turn their seasons around, with the Sharks aiming to snap a losing streak and the Sabres hoping to build momentum on home ice. Here’s a detailed preview of the game:
Team Overview
- San Jose Sharks: The Sharks have endured a challenging season, sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 16-37-9 record. They are currently on a three-game losing streak, with their most recent defeat being a 4-1 loss to the Calgary Flames. San Jose has struggled on both ends of the ice, ranking 30th in goals per game (2.57) and 31st in goals allowed per game (3.70). Despite their struggles, the Sharks have seen solid contributions from young players like Macklin Celebrini and William Eklund, who have been bright spots in an otherwise difficult campaign.
- Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres, with a 24-29-6 record, are also having a tough season but remain competitive in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a 3-2 overtime victory against the Anaheim Ducks, which snapped a two-game losing streak. Buffalo’s offense has been a strength, averaging 3.17 goals per game (12th in the NHL), but their defense has been a liability, allowing 3.40 goals per game (28th in the league). The Sabres will look to capitalize on their offensive firepower and home-ice advantage to secure a win.
Key Players to Watch
- San Jose Sharks:
- Macklin Celebrini: The rookie forward has been a standout for the Sharks, contributing 30 goals and 27 assists this season. His ability to create scoring opportunities will be crucial for San Jose.
- William Eklund: Eklund has been another bright spot, tallying 57 points (15 goals, 42 assists) this season. His playmaking ability adds a dynamic element to the Sharks’ offense.
- Vitek Vanecek: The goaltender has struggled this season, with a .882 save percentage and a 3.88 goals-against average. However, a strong performance from him could give the Sharks a chance to compete.
- Buffalo Sabres:
- Tage Thompson: The star forward leads the Sabres with 35 goals and 40 assists for 75 points. His scoring ability and leadership make him a key player for Buffalo.
- Alex Tuch: Tuch has been a consistent contributor, adding 25 goals and 30 assists this season. His physicality and offensive presence will be important against San Jose.
- Rasmus Dahlin: The defenseman has been a force on the blue line, recording 47 points (9 goals, 38 assists) while providing stability in the defensive zone.
Matchup Analysis
- Offense vs. Defense: Buffalo’s high-powered offense will look to exploit San Jose’s defensive struggles, particularly in transition and on the power play. Meanwhile, the Sharks will need to tighten up defensively and capitalize on any scoring opportunities they create.
- Special Teams: The Sabres’ power play ranks 14th in the league (21.5%), while their penalty kill is 23rd (76.8%). The Sharks’ power play has struggled, ranking 26th (16.7%), and their penalty kill is 28th (73.5%). Special teams could play a significant role in determining the outcome of this game.
- Key Matchup: The battle between Tage Thompson and Macklin Celebrini will be a highlight. Both players are capable of taking over the game, and their performances could heavily influence the result.
Injury Report
- San Jose Sharks:
- Logan Couture (lower body) is out.
- Mario Ferraro (upper body) is questionable.
- Buffalo Sabres:
- Dylan Cozens (upper body) is questionable.
- Peyton Krebs (illness) is day-to-day.
What to Expect
This game is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams relying on their offensive strengths. The Sabres enter as the favorites, given their superior record and home-ice advantage, but the Sharks’ young talent and resilience could make this a closer contest than expected. Expect Buffalo to control the tempo and rely on their star players to secure a victory, while San Jose will look to play spoiler and snap their losing streak.
San Jose Sharks 6.5
Buffalo Sabres – 260
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, March 3, 2025
