Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. Our featured game of this edition is the Toronto Maple Leafs taking on the Buffalo Sabres. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Buffalo Sabres
Head-to-Head: Maple Leafs 1-2 Sabres
How to Watch: US TV: MSG Buffalo; NHL Network. Canada TV: CBC; Sportsnet.
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Our opening game of NHL predictions is another installment of the QEW rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Buffalo Sabres. Joseph Woll is the confirmed starter for the Maple Leafs, who are 2-6-2 in their last 10 games. Toronto endured an eight-game losing streak before beating the Anaheim Ducks. However, the Leafs will be without captain Auston Matthews for the rest of the season. William Nylander leads the club assists (39) and points (62).
Alex Lyon is the projected starter for the Sabres but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Buffalo is in the rarified air of first place in the Atlantic Division. The Sabers are 8-2 in the previous 10 games but did lose in its last time on ice. Tage Thompson leads the club in goals (34), assists (36), and points (70) so far this campaign.
Toronto may come out with some fire after losing Matthews. However, Buffalo should get the win.
Prediction: Sabres win 5-3.