Up arrow

Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks: Preview, Predictions and Picks for October 19, 2024

Published on:
Oct 19, 2024 9:13 AM
The Buffalo Sabres, struggling with a 1-4-1 record, will look to snap their road losing streak when they visit the United Center to face the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday, October 19. The Blackhawks, sitting at 2-2-1, will aim to capitalize on their strong home record and hand the Sabres their fourth consecutive road loss. This Atlantic Division vs Central Division matchup is set to drop the puck at 8:00 PM.
Buffalo Sabres
Chicago Blackhawks

Sabres vs Blackhawks statistics

Stat Sabres Blackhawks
Goals For per Game 2.83 2.60
Goals Against per Game 4.00 2.80
Shots per Game 27.7 26.2
Shots Against per Game 29.3 29.8
Power Play Goals 0 5
Power Play Goals Against 6 2
Short Handed Goals 1 0
Short Handed Goals Against 0 0
Penalty Minutes 76 39
Power Play Percentage 0.0 31.3
Penalty Kill Percentage 71.4 83.3

Chicago Blackhawks recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/17/24 vs San Jose Sharks W 4-2
10/15/24 @ Calgary Flames L 3-1
10/12/24 @ Edmonton Oilers W 5-2
10/11/24 @ Winnipeg Jets L 2-1 OT
10/8/24 @ Utah Hockey Club L 5-2

Buffalo Sabres recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/17/24 @ Columbus Blue Jackets L 6-4
10/16/24 @ Pittsburgh Penguins L 6-5 OT
10/12/24 vs Florida Panthers W 5-2
10/10/24 vs Los Angeles Kings L 3-1
10/5/24 vs New Jersey Devils L 3-1

Sabres vs Blackhawks predictions

As the Buffalo Sabres prepare to face off against the Chicago Blackhawks, all eyes might be on Alex Tuch, whose early season performances have shown both consistency and flair. Tuch has already racked up 6 points, including 4 assists, making him a crucial playmaker for the Sabres. Despite a shaky team start, his ability to find tight passing lanes and craft scoring opportunities will be vital if the Sabres want to snap their losing streak on the road. Additionally, with JJ Peterka listed as day-to-day, his potential return could provide just the spark the Buffalo lineup needs. If he's healthy enough to hit the ice, expect some energetic plays that could shift the game's momentum.

Turning our focus to the Chicago Blackhawks, Teuvo Teravainen and rookie Connor Bedard have quickly become standout players this season. Teravainen leads the team with 7 points and his knack for scoring critical goals will be something the Sabres need to tightly defend against. Meanwhile, Bedard, leading with 6 assists, demonstrates a maturity and vision on the ice that belies his years. His setup plays and synergy with Teravainen could spell trouble for any opponent, particularly a struggling Sabres squad. This dynamic duo’s performance will be pivotal in maintaining the Blackhawks' competitive edge in this matchup.

Given the performances and current statistics, I’m leaning towards a win for the Chicago Blackhawks. Their balanced attack and solid home performance could prove too much for the Sabres, who are still looking to find their rhythm on the road. Plus, the Blackhawks' strength in leveraging young talent like Bedard alongside seasoned pros like Teravainen gives them a multi-dimensional threat that could dominate the game. Unless the Sabres can quickly tighten their play and capitalize on every opportunity, the Blackhawks might just skate to victory in front of their home crowd. What do you think? Are the Blackhawks going to prolong the Sabres' road woes, or will Buffalo find a way to turn their fortunes around?

Chicago Blackhawks injuries

  • Pat Maroon (LW): Day-To-Day
  • Joey Anderson (RW): Day-To-Day
  • Alec Martinez (D): Injured Reserve
  • Wyatt Kaiser (D): Injured Reserve
  • Artyom Levshunov (D): Injured Reserve

Buffalo Sabres injuries

  • JJ Peterka (RW): Day-To-Day
  • Zach Benson (LW): Day-To-Day
  • Nicolas Aube-Kubel (RW): Injured Reserve
  • Ryan Johnson (C): Out
  • Rasmus Dahlin (D): Day-To-Day

Sabres vs Blackhawks game info

Venue United Center
Location Chicago, IL
Puck drop Sat 8:00 PM

Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

More Picks