Sabres Edge Predators in Close Contest

In a tightly contested match, the Buffalo Sabres triumphed over the Nashville Predators with a final score of 3-2 at KeyBank Center on March 7, 2026. This victory marks the Sabres' dominance in the series, as they have now won all three meetings against the Predators this season, concluding the series with a 2-0 record.

Buffalo entered the game with a strong home record of 38-19-6 and was riding a five-game winning streak, having scored an average of 3.5 goals per game while allowing just 2.5 in their last ten games. Their recent form included impressive victories, including a 5-1 win against the Pittsburgh Penguins just a day prior. In contrast, the Predators, with an away record of 28-27-8, had struggled recently, winning only four of their last ten games and averaging 3.5 goals scored but allowing 3.6.

The game saw the Predators take an early lead in the second period with a goal from Zachary L'Heureux, assisted by Jonathan Marchessault and Ryan O'Reilly. However, the Sabres quickly responded with a goal from Tage Thompson, leveling the score at 1-1. Jason Zucker then put Buffalo ahead 2-1 with another goal later in the second period. In the third period, Josh Doan extended the Sabres' lead to 3-1 before Matthew Wood brought the Predators back within one goal, but it was not enough to change the outcome.

In terms of injuries, the Sabres were missing Justin Danforth and Jiri Kulich, both on injured reserve, along with Noah Ostlund, who was ruled out with a lower body injury. The Predators did not report significant injuries affecting their lineup.

The betting market, as reported by DraftKings, favored the Sabres with a moneyline of -185, while the Predators were set at +154. The spread was -1.5 for Buffalo, with a total set at 6.5, indicating expectations for a competitive scoring game.

The conditions at KeyBank Center were typical for a hockey matchup, with fans eagerly supporting their home team. Viewers were treated to a display of skill and determination, particularly from the Sabres, who showcased their offensive prowess and defensive resilience to secure the win.