Phoenix Coyotes vs. Buffalo Sabres u5.5 (+100 odds)
Thu October 8th 2009 7:00p
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The Phoenix Coyotes may be bankrupt, but they are seeking a 3-0 start to the season, matching the best start in franchise history, when they visit the Buffalo Sabres tonight.

The Coyotes suffocating the defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins 3-0 last night, as Ilya Bryzgalov posted the shutout. Early indications are that Bryzgalov will get the start again tonight, but it may not matter who is in net if the Phoenix defense duplicates its effort of last night, when they held the high powered Penguins offense to only 24 shots on goal.

Speaking of defense, the Sabres opened the season by losing 2-1 in overtime vs. the Montreal Canadiens here last Saturday, and they have not played since. Remarkably, Buffalo held the Habs to just 17 shots on goal that game, even with the added time. Goaltender Ryan Miller is the likely starter again tonight, although, like Phoenix a repeat of their opening night defensive performance may make the goaltender moot.

Now the Sabres are potentially more explosive offensively, but the Coyotes seem determined to go into their home opener with a 3-0 mark, giving the disgruntled Arizona fans at least some reason to keep coming to the games.

Thus, we look for Phoenix to employ a similar game plan as last night, and while it is debatable as to whether or not that style will translate into a third straight win, all that checking and dumping should at least keep the scoring down.

NHL Free Pick: Coyotes, Sabres Under 5.5 (+100)

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