This Saturday, the Edmonton Oilers will host the Buffalo Sabres in what promises to be a compelling clash of past allegiances and present challenges. Jeff Skinner, who was bought out by the Sabres in the offseason, now dons the Oilers jersey. He’s set to face his old team for the first time, adding an emotional twist to the game. Skinner’s journey with the Oilers has been rocky, marked by reduced ice time and inconsistent performances, heightening the anticipation for this matchup.
Match Info
- NHL
- Saturday 25th January 2025 16:00 EST / 21:00 GMT
- Rogers Place
Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres are looking to rebound from a recent 5-2 defeat to the Calgary Flames, a game that saw them squander a one-goal lead due to a lacklustre power play performance. The return of center Ryan McLeod, traded from Edmonton last offseason, injects some optimism into the team. McLeod, absent from the last three games due to an upper-body injury, has been a key player this season, nearing career highs in goals, assists, and points. His presence is expected to bolster the Sabres as they aim to improve their recent form, which has seen them win just one of their last four games.
Adam Vilimek | Dreamstime.com
Edmonton Oilers
Meanwhile, the Oilers have found their stride after a slow start to the season, boasting a record of 20-6-1 since late November. Skinner’s struggles to find the net have been a subplot of the season, but his recent play suggests a potential turnaround. His performance in the Oilers’ recent 6-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks, where he created multiple scoring chances, has fueled optimism. With the team riding a high from a 9-3-0 streak in their last 12 games, they look to maintain their momentum against a familiar foe in what could be a defining game for Skinner and his team.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Edmonton Oilers to Win
The Edmonton Oilers are my pick for the winner in the upcoming match against the Buffalo Sabres. The Oilers have demonstrated significant improvement, boasting an impressive 20-6-1 record since late November, including a 9-3-0 run in their recent games. This momentum, combined with their strong performance against the Vancouver Canucks, where the team showed considerable offensive prowess, suggests they have the upper hand. Additionally, Jeff Skinner’s recent resurgence, creating multiple scoring opportunities in the last game, hints at an imminent uptick in his scoring, which could prove pivotal against his former team. Given the Sabres’ recent struggles, particularly in special teams play, and the Oilers’ current form, Edmonton seems well-positioned to secure a victory in this matchup.
America Bet Score Prediction
Buffalo Sabres 2 – Edmonton Oilers 4
I predict a final score of 4-2 in favour of the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers’ recent offensive form, notably in their convincing win over the Vancouver Canucks, showcases their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The team’s consistent performance since late November further supports their capacity to produce a higher scoreline. On the other hand, the Buffalo Sabres have shown vulnerability in their defensive play, especially highlighted in their recent loss to the Calgary Flames where their power play faltered significantly. With the Oilers’ momentum and the Sabres’ recent inconsistencies, a scoreline of 4-2 seems a probable outcome for this encounter.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Edmonton Oilers to win against Buffalo Sabres
- Over 5.5 total goals in the game between Edmonton Oilers and Buffalo Sabres
- Jeff Skinner to score at any time during the game
- Edmonton Oilers to lead after the first period
- Total goals by Edmonton Oilers over 3.5
- Ryan McLeod to record at least one point in the game
- Both teams to score in the first period
- Edmonton Oilers to have more power plays than Buffalo Sabres
- Final score to be Edmonton Oilers 4, Buffalo Sabres 2
- Edmonton Oilers to win by at least two goals margin
