NHL Playoffs: Buffalo Sabres vs. Montreal Canadiens Picks – Game 1 Betting Preview, Team News, and Predictions (May 6)
- When: Wednesday, May 6, 2026. 7:00 PM ET
- Where: KeyBank Center, Buffalo
- How to Watch: ESPN+
Buffalo Sabres vs. Montreal Canadiens Preview
The second round in the Eastern Conference Stanley Cup Playoffs series between the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens begins on Wednesday, May 6. Buffalo will have the home ice advantage for the first two games, as they bid to seize control against the Habs.
ALSO SEE: Kentucky Derby Cheat Sheet: Runner-by-Runner Guide & Odds
Buffalo Sabres Stats & Team News
- Overall Record: 50-23-9
- Home Record: 26-10-5
- Road Record: 24-13-4
It has been a reliable season to this point for the Buffalo Sabres, but their campaign is likely to be determined as a success or not based on their upcoming series with the Montreal Canadiens.
The Sabres finished the regular campaign as the Atlantic Division champions, winning over 100 points for the first time since 2009-10. Buffalo showed their offensive quality throughout their opening round series with the Boston Bruins, scoring at least four goals in all but one of the six games. Their eventual progression was secured emphatically with a 4-1 win on May 1.
Montreal Canadiens Stats & Team News
- Overall Record: 48-24-10
- Home Record: 24-15-2
- Road Record: 24-9-8
The Montreal Canadiens will be hoping to build momentum after ending their five-year wait for a victory in the postseason in the previous round. It has been a progressive campaign by the Habs after finishing near the bottom of the standings between 2021 and 2024.
Cole Caufield is undeniably their most important player, having scored 51 goals. Meanwhile, Nick Suzuki has scored a staggering 101 points. Montreal showed their character in the previous round, winning a game-deciding Game 7 in Tampa against the Lightning.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Montreal Canadiens Picks
Canadiens confidence will be high after ending their playoff drought. However, we still prefer the chances of the Sabres, who have been incredibly efficient in the offensive areas of the ice throughout both the regular and postseason.
Free Pick:
