Buffalo Sabres vs Minnesota Wild Pick – 3/22/2025

The Buffalo Sabres are set to face the Minnesota Wild on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota. This game presents an intriguing opportunity for bettors, with the Wild favored at home.

Buffalo Sabres vs Minnesota Wild Game Preview

The Sabres enter this contest with a 27-34-6 record, having lost eight of their last eleven games. Their recent 5-2 defeat to the Utah Hockey Club highlights ongoing defensive struggles, as they've allowed three or more goals in nine of their last eleven outings. Offensively, Buffalo averages 3.1 goals per game, with a power play success rate of 18%. Tage Thompson leads the team with 34 goals and 60 points, while Rasmus Dahlin has contributed 40 assists. In goal, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen holds a 23-21-4 record with a 3.16 goals-against average (GAA) and an .888 save percentage.

Conversely, the Wild boast a 39-25-5 record and are coming off consecutive victories, including a 4-0 shutout against the Seattle Kraken. They aim to secure their first three-game winning streak since February. Minnesota averages 2.72 goals per game, converting 21.1% of their power play opportunities. Kirill Kaprizov leads the team with 23 goals and 52 points, while Matt Boldy has added 35 assists. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson has been solid, posting a 27-15-4 record with a 2.51 GAA and a .917 save percentage.

Betting Insights

• Moneyline: Minnesota Wild -148, Buffalo Sabres +124
• Over/Under: 5.5 goals

Key trends to consider:

• The Sabres have lost nine of their last ten road games.
• The Wild have won five of their last six daytime games.
• The Wild have covered the puck line in nine of their last ten games following a home win.
• The Sabres have failed to cover the puck line in each of their last three games as road underdogs.

These trends suggest a favorable outlook for the Wild, especially given their recent form and home advantage.

Buffalo Sabres vs Minnesota Wild Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Minnesota Wild appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their recent defensive improvements and home ice advantage position them well against a struggling Sabres team. Bettors might find value in backing the Wild on the moneyline at -148. Additionally, given the Sabres' defensive vulnerabilities and the Wild's recent offensive uptick, wagering on the over 5.5 goals could be a prudent choice.

In conclusion, the Minnesota Wild are well-positioned to secure a victory in this encounter, making them a compelling option for bettors seeking to capitalize on current team dynamics and trends.

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