Published Dec 19, 3:34am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Dec 19, 3:34am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Dec 19, 3:34am ET
Interesting action from the Eastern Conference is set for the NHL on Dec 20, as in-form Buffalo Sabres host the New York Islanders. Find our picks for the showdown here.
The Islanders continue to sit high in the Metropolitan Division standings, but a response will be required following a defeat in their most recent game.
Meanwhile, the Sabres currently sit bottom of the Atlantic Division, but they have registered wins in each of their last four games.
The 2025-26 season has largely been a disappointment for the Buffalo Sabres to this point.
They currently sit bottom of the Atlantic Division standings, but positives can be taken from their recent outings, as they aim to make a charge for a playoff spot. Buffalo have recorded wins in each of their last four games, and they now boast a positive 15-14-4 record for the first time this season.
They were at their best offensively on Thursday, as they landed a 5-3 home success against the Philadelphia Flyers. Jack Quinn scored in the win, while Mattias Samuelsson and Zach Benson both ended the night with two assists apiece.
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The New York Islanders continue to be one of the standout playoff chances in the Eastern Conference this season.
They currently sit third in the Metropolitan Division, and they are just five points off top spot. The Islanders have gone 6-3-1 over their last ten games, accumulating an overall record of 19-12-3 this season.
But, New York were beaten in their latest outing earlier this week at the Red Wings. A busy end to the week also sees the Islanders in action against Vancouver on Friday.
| TOTAL | Islanders | Sabres | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 215 | 97 | 100 | - |
| GOALS | 1255 | 623 | 632 |
Buffalo have been in red-hot form over the last ten days, and they will have the added advantage of having more time to prepare for this clash. That could ultimately be decisive in the context of picking the winner, meaning that the preference is for the hosts.
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Pick
Buffalo Sabres
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