Sabres vs Golden Knights Picks and Prediction – 1/5/2025

The Buffalo Sabres (14-20-5) travel to face the Vegas Golden Knights (26-9-3) in what promises to be an exciting NHL matchup. Buffalo comes off a tough 6-5 overtime loss to the Colorado Avalanche despite a hat trick by Jason Zucker. Vegas, meanwhile, looks to bounce back after a 3-2 loss to Montreal but remains dominant at home with a 16-4-0 record. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Buffalo’s offense is led by Tage Thompson, who has tallied 18 goals and 15 assists for 33 points. The Sabres average 3.08 goals per game but allow 3.41 goals, making consistency a concern. Rasmus Dahlin has 21 assists, including seven on the power play, but his absence due to injury could impact puck movement. The Sabres’ power play sits at 17.4%, while the penalty kill is 77.9%, leaving room for improvement. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has a 3.07 goals-against average (GAA) and a .894 save percentage, struggling to shut down elite offenses.

Defensively, Buffalo faces significant challenges, conceding too many high-danger scoring chances. The Sabres allow 29.0 shots per game and have struggled on special teams, particularly when outnumbered. With several key injuries, including Mattias Samuelsson and Dahlin, defensive depth is a concern. They have surrendered 3.4 goals per game over the last 10, reflecting ongoing struggles.

The Vegas Golden Knights continue to shine, spearheaded by Jack Eichel, who boasts 10 goals and 40 assists for 50 points. Vegas scores 3.55 goals per game and gives up just 2.71, maintaining balance on both ends. Ivan Barbashev has chipped in 15 goals, and the power play operates at 24.7%, while the penalty kill is a solid 80.2%. Goaltender Adin Hill has been outstanding, posting a 2.65 GAA and a .902 save percentage.

Defensively, the Golden Knights limit opponents to 27.9 shots per game and effectively kill penalties. Injuries to Barbashev and Zach Whitecloud are worth monitoring, but depth should compensate. Over the last 10 games, Vegas has allowed just 2.2 goals per game. The ability to win battles along the boards and capitalize on turnovers has kept them among the NHL's elite.

The Golden Knights have been nearly unbeatable at home and bring a potent offense against Buffalo’s leaky defense. With Vegas boasting a stronger power play and a more reliable goaltending tandem, they are poised to capitalize on Buffalo’s shortcomings. Expect Vegas to control possession and outmatch Buffalo in all phases of the game. Final Score Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights 5-2.