Lightning vs. Sabres: Expert Prediction, Odds & Top Picks for Feb. 3
The Tampa Bay Lightning and Buffalo Sabres are set to clash on February 3, 2026, at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. Fans can look forward to an exciting game featuring standout players Jake Guentzel and Alex Tuch.
Game Details and Broadcast Information
- Date: February 3, 2026
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida
- Broadcast: ESPN+
Betting Odds and Predictions
- Lightning Puck Line: -1.5 (Odds: 130)
- Sabres Puck Line: +1.5 (Odds: -155)
- Total Over/Under Goals: 6.5 (Over Odds: 100, Under Odds: -120)
- Lightning Moneyline: -192
- Sabres Moneyline: +160
Expert Picks
The expert pick for this showdown favors the Lightning to cover the spread at -1.5. The Over/Under prediction leans towards the Under (6.5). A projected final score reflects a Lightning win, 4-2 against the Sabres.
Team Performance Insights
This season, both teams have showcased strong offensive plays. The Lightning have scored 185 goals (3.5 per game), ranking them eighth in the league. Meanwhile, the Sabres follow closely with 187 goals (3.4 per game), holding the fifth position overall.
Defensively, the Lightning are among the league’s best, allowing just 134 goals (2.5 per game), the second-fewest in the NHL. In contrast, the Sabres give up 167 goals (3.0 per game), ranking thirteenth.
Power-Play Performance
- Lightning Power-Play Goals: 36 (Ranked 13th in NHL)
- Power-Play Chances: 168
- Power-Play Conversion Rate: 21.43% (Ranked 14th)
- Sabres Power-Play Goals: 32 (Ranked 16th in NHL)
- Power-Play Chances: 161
- Power-Play Conversion Rate: 19.88% (Ranked 18th)
Key Players to Watch
Key players include:
- Tage Thompson (Sabres): 29 goals, 28 assists, 57 points
- Alex Tuch (Sabres): 21 goals, 26 assists, 47 points
- Rasmus Dahlin (Sabres): 11 goals, 35 assists, 46 points
As the Lightning and Sabres prepare for this electrifying matchup, fans can anticipate a thrilling game filled with competitive spirit and high-stakes action.
