Montreal Canadiens vs Buffalo Sabres - Game 1 Best Bet

In my opinion, this is the best second round series in the NHL Playoffs. Maybe not in terms of talent. Maybe not in terms of superstars. But certainly in terms of atmospheres.

Playoff hockey returned to Buffalo for the first time in 14 years on April 19th. The Sabres hosted Game 1 against the Boston Bruins. They managed to win the game, but they came out flat. Regardless, the city and arena were on fire. Boston dominated Game 2 and silenced the crowd. Buffalo Head Coach Lindy Ruff made a quick decision to swap goalies, and it worked out magnificently.

The Sabres beat the Bruins in 6 games and Alex Lyon only allowed a combined 5 goals in the 4 games he started. There is nothing like the spark a goalie change brings to a hockey team, as the Sabres looked nothing short of dominant. Now Buffalo finds themselves hosting a Montreal Canadiens team that just took down the Lightning in 7.

Maybe it’s a stretch to categorize this game as a “Rust vs Rest” matchup. Buffalo hasn’t played since May 1st, but Montreal did get 2 days off after beating Tampa in Tampa on May 3rd. It’s not the quickest of turnarounds for the Canadiens, but there is obviously still a rest advantage for Buffalo. I typically like to fade the rested teams in these spots, and that’s what I’m doing tonight.

As I mentioned above, the Sabres came out flat in Game 1 against the Bruins. I’m not so sure that will happen again. A) Lindy Ruff is a good enough coach to get his team up and B) There aren’t quite as many nerves given this isn’t the first home playoff game in over a decade. I think Buffalo will be ready to roll, but I think Montreal is the play here.

If you’re the Canadiens, I’m sure you’re gassed after going 7 with Tampa. But you also have to be feeling invincible after winning game seven on the road, especially with just 9 shots. Did Montreal get lucky? I wouldn’t go that far, but they did get the bounces. This team passes my eye test. I thought they were capable of beating the Lightning from the start, and at this very moment, I think they’re capable of beating anyone. 

Buffalo I love you, I mean it...but tonight is not your night.