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Panthers vs Sabres: Key Matchup as Barkov Returns and Teams Clash in Atlantic Division Showdown

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Florida Panthers Vs Buffalo Sabres Hockey Game

The Florida Panthers and the Buffalo Sabres are set to face off in a highly anticipated NHL matchup on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. This game marks a significant return for the Panthers as their captain, Aleksander Barkov, is slated to rejoin the lineup after missing eight games due to a lower-body injury.

The Panthers, currently leading the Atlantic Division with a 6-3-1 record, are on a strong run, having won their last four road games. Their most recent victory was a 6-3 comeback win against the New York Islanders, where they overcame a 3-0 deficit in the first period. Sam Bennett and Matthew Tkachuk were key contributors, with Bennett leading the team with seven goals and Sam Reinhart topping the team in points with 14.

The Buffalo Sabres, with a 4-4-1 record, are also on a winning streak, having secured three consecutive victories. Their latest win was a 5-3 triumph over the Detroit Red Wings, with Tage Thompson scoring two goals and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen making 22 saves. Thompson is having a strong season, leading the Sabres in both goals and points.

The matchup is expected to be closely contested, with the Panthers favored on the moneyline at -155 and the Sabres at +130. The total goals for the game are set at 6, with predictions leaning towards an over due to the strong offensive performances of both teams.

In terms of injuries, the Panthers will be without Tomas Nosek and Justin Sourdif, while Jonah Gadjovich and Aleksander Barkov are listed as questionable. For the Sabres, Zachary Benson is questionable with a lower-body injury.

Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to start in goal for the Panthers, bringing a 15-7-2 record against the Sabres in his career. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is projected to start for the Sabres, who are looking to build on their recent success and tighten up their defense.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and MSG-B, with puck drop scheduled for 7:00 PM ET.