The Buffalo Sabres (2-1) and Boston Bruins (1-2) meet in Game 4 of the NHL Playoffs tonight. Puck drop is set for 2:00 p.m. EDT at TD Garden in Boston, Mass. The game will be broadcast live on TNT.
The Bruins are favored by -1.5 on the puck line, with the over/under set at 5.5 (-138o / +112u). The Bruins are a -114 favorite to win outright, while the Sabres are -105 to pull off the upset.
Let's get into my Sabres vs. Bruins predictions and NHL picks.
Sabres vs. Bruins Odds, Pick
| Sabres Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+1.5 -260 | 5.5 -138o / 112u | -105 |
| Bruins Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-1.5 +205 | 5.5 -138o / 112u | -114 |
- Sabres vs. Bruins Spread: Bruins -1.5 (+205 ), Sabres +1.5 (-260)
- Sabres vs. Bruins Over/Under: 5.5 (-138o / +112u)
- Sabres vs. Bruins Moneyline: Sabres -105, Bruins -114
Sabres vs. Bruins Preview
Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres’ biggest issue this season has been their defensive play. Entering this contest, Buffalo ranks 23rd in the league in shots on goal allowed per game.
Not only do the Sabres allow a high volume of shots, but many come from high-danger areas. This season, Buffalo ranked 21st in expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60).
This defensive inconsistency has put added pressure on the goaltending, which is why coach Lindy Ruff turned to Alex Lyon midway through the series. While Lyon performed well in Game 3, he has still allowed three or more goals in three of his past four starts.
He is 1-2-1 over that stretch with a .843 save percentage and a 4.22 goals-against average.
Boston Bruins
The clear goaltending edge belongs to the Boston Bruins, with Jeremy Swayman expected to start again. A likely Vezina Trophy finalist, Swayman finished the regular season with a 31-18-4 record, a .908 save percentage and a 2.71 goals-against average.
Despite the 2-1 series deficit, Swayman’s performance has improved this postseason. Through the first three games, he has posted a .931 save percentage and a 2.39 goals-against average.
Another advantage for Boston is home ice. The Bruins went 29-12-1 at TD Garden this season.
Sabres vs. Bruins Prediction
Buffalo has a capable offense, but Swayman is well-positioned to handle the challenge, particularly at home.
Boston’s offense should also provide support. This season, the Bruins rank in the top 10 in goals scored per game, power play percentage and shooting percentage.
Boston has won two of the three meetings between these two teams at home this year, and another win is likely on Sunday.
Pick: Bruins moneyline (-102 at Polymarket | Play to -110)
