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.
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.
Against a fast-paced Buffalo Sabres squad built to play in high-octane games, Tavares should have plenty of opportunities to shoot.
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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.
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.
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