Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.
Auston Matthews’ season-ending injury will push former Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares into a larger role over the final 16 games of the season.
Advertisement
My Maple Leafs vs. Sabres predictions expect Tavares to benefit greatly from increased usage, particularly in shooting.
Let’s dive into my NHL picks for Saturday, March 14.
Maple Leafs vs Sabres prediction
Maple Leafs vs Sabres best bet: John Tavares Over 2.5 shots (-135)
John Tavares generated 3.2 shots on 6.7 attempts per game without Auston Matthews, a big jump from 2.4 shots on 4.4 attempts when the captain was in the lineup.
Ice time is a big reason. Tavares has averaged 17:57 this year, but that number has soared with AM34 sidelined.
The veteran skater has logged at least 20 minutes in all six games without Matthews and clearly taken advantage of the additional usage.
Advertisement
Against a fast-paced Buffalo Sabres squad built to play in high-octane games, Tavares should have plenty of opportunities to shoot.
Maple Leafs vs Sabres same-game parlay
Oliver Ekman-Larsson has stepped up without Matthews this season.
He hit the scoresheet in five of six games without the Toronto Maple Leafs captain while generating shots at a higher clip to boot, particularly when rested. OEL combined for 10 shots on 16 attempts through three games following a day of rest.
Jake McCabe blocked 12 shots over three meetings with the Sabres this season. He has also averaged 3.2 blocks and recorded multiple in each game without Matthews.
Advertisement
Maple Leafs vs Sabres SGP
John Tavares Over 2.5 shots
Oliver Ekman-Larsson Over 0.5 points
Jake McCabe Over 1.5 blocked shots
Maple Leafs vs Sabres odds
Moneyline: Maple Leafs +190 | Sabres -230
Puck Line: Maple Leafs +1.5 (-120) | Sabres -1.5 (+100)
Over/Under: Over 6.5 (-115) | Under 6.5 (-105)
Maple Leafs vs Sabres trend
John Tavares has recorded three or more shots in four of six games without Auston Matthews this season. Find more NHL betting trends for Maple Leafs vs. Sabres.
How to watch Maple Leafs vs Sabres
Location
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
Date
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Puck drop
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
CBC
Maple Leafs vs Sabres latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.