The stage is set for the 2024 NHL Global Series, kicking off the 2024-25 season with an exciting Friday matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils. This Friday showdown marks the start of a two-game series at O2 Arena in Prague, Czech Republic. I’ll be breaking down this matchup and sharing my best bets!
Time and TV Information:
- Time: 1:30 PM ET
- Where to Watch: NHL Network, MSG, SN, and MSG-B
Matchup:
New Jersey Devils @ Buffalo Sabres
- New Jersey Devils: 0-0-0
- Buffalo Sabres: 0-0-0
| Team | Opening ML | Current ML | Spread | Total |
| New Jersey Devils | -155 | -148 | -1.5 (+164) | o6.5 (+100) |
| Buffalo Sabres | +130 | +124 | +1.5 (-198) | u6.5 (-120) |
Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres were busy this offseason, aiming to build on their recent progress and make a strong push for the playoffs in the 2024-25 season. Their focus was on bolstering offensive depth, leading to several key additions, including Ryan McLeod, Sam Lafferty, Jason Zucker, Beck Malenstyn, and Nicolas Aube-Kubel. Despite these changes, the Sabres’ core of young talent remains intact, highlighted by Rasmus Dahlin, who was recently named captain, along with Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, J.J. Peterka, Dylan Cozens, and Owen Power.
In addition to the roster changes, the Sabres made a significant coaching move by parting ways with head coach Don Granato. Former Sabres player and coach Lindy Ruff was brought back to lead the team. Ruff, who coached Buffalo from 1997 to 2013, returns after a four-year stint with the New Jersey Devils, where he was let go following a season in which the Devils missed the playoffs. Ruff’s return marks his first game behind the Sabres’ bench in over a decade.
New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils were also active this offseason as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2023-24 campaign that was plagued by injuries. One of their biggest offseason priorities was improving their goaltending, which struggled last season. They addressed this by parting ways with Vitek Vanecek and Akira Schmid and bringing in Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. On defense, they strengthened their blue line with the additions of Brett Pesce and Brenden Dillon. Up front, the Devils added valuable depth with Stefan Noesen, Tomas Tatar, and Paul Cotter.
Following the departure of Lindy Ruff, the Devils hired Sheldon Keefe as their new head coach. Keefe previously coached the Toronto Maple Leafs from 2019-2024, leading them to the playoffs in each of his five seasons. However, Toronto only made it past the first round once, during the 2022-23 season. Keefe will look to bring his experience and winning pedigree to New Jersey as they aim to return to playoff contention.
Sides/ Totals:
- New Jersey Devils / Buffalo Sabres over 6.0 (-130) – BetMGM
The matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and New Jersey Devils is likely to be a high-scoring contest, given the offensive firepower both teams bring to the ice. The Sabres, led by dynamic scorers like Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and Rasmus Dahlin, are known for their aggressive offensive approach. On the other side, the Devils, with stars like Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, can go toe-to-toe in creating scoring chances. Early-season games often see defenses and goaltenders still settling in, increasing the potential for goals. With both teams playing fast-paced, high-octane hockey, this game could easily turn into a scoring showcase.
Player Props:
- J.J. Peterka over 0.5 Points (-135) – DraftKings
J.J. Peterka is entering the 2024-25 season with the Buffalo Sabres, ready for a potential breakout year. After showcasing his offensive skills in previous seasons, the young winger is expected to take on a larger role within Buffalo’s dynamic forward group. Known for his speed, creativity, and strong two-way play, Peterka has the tools to excel both offensively and defensively. Now positioned on the Sabres’ top line alongside Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson, as well as on the top Powerplay unit, he’ll get plenty of ice time and opportunities. Peterka has also thrived against the Devils, registering at least one point in four of his last five games against them.
Linemate and Shot Propz provide all Player Prop Data.
Best of luck, and as always you can find me on Twitter @GatorBetting and Instagram @Gator_Sports_Betting. Any feedback whether positive or negative is always encouraged.
