A lot is happening off the ice in Buffalo right now, so you could understand why the Sabres’ minds might be elsewhere ahead of this trip to Montreal.
To make matters worse, the Sabres played back-to-back games over the weekend, blowing a 3-1 lead to the Leafs on Monday.
With the Habs well-rested following a two-day break, there’s a nice little edge on Montreal at home – something I’ve rarely said this season.
The same reasons above apply here.
The Blues, who have lost three of their last five, played back-to-back games over the weekend, starting in Dallas before ending with a 3-2 win over the Rangers.
The Devils, meanwhile, have enjoyed a two-day break heading into this brief two-game road trip.
We played against the Caps last night in Dallas, but we’ll do the opposite here in the second half of their back-to-back against the Blackhawks.
Chicago has been one of the worst 5v5 teams in the league when it comes to expected goals average, and this is also a tough schedule spot for the Hawks as they prepare to play their third game in four days.
Throw in Washington’s outstanding 4-1 record when playing on no rest, and it becomes easier to envision a blowout Capitals win.