NHL Playoff Game 3: Buffalo Sabres vs Boston Bruins Predictions, Betting Insights and Picks for April 23

Enhancing Your Betting Insight

For fans looking to enhance their betting insight, don’t forget to customize your Google account settings to include us as a preferred source. Tonight, all eyes will be on Game 3 of the NHL playoff series as the Buffalo Sabres take on the Boston Bruins. In this matchup, player Josh Doan has been a key player to watch, generating a significant number of shot attempts throughout the season and maintaining that effort into the playoffs. Although he hasn’t found the net yet, I expect Doan to contribute offensively as the series moves to Boston.

Game 3 Preview: Sabres vs Bruins

The Buffalo Sabres have shown strong control over expected goals, capturing 56.9% share over the first two games, which ranks third among all playoff competitors. Only Philadelphia and Colorado are ahead of them, with both of those teams gaining 2-0 leads in their respective series. I believe in the depth of the Sabres, which should give them an edge over the Bruins as the series continues.

Top Betting Recommendations

For the best bet, consider Josh Doan to score over 0.5 points at odds of +140. He has consistently recorded multiple shots in each game, with a total of 12 attempts, primarily from high-danger areas—a necessity against a skilled goalie like Jeremy Swayman. The Sabres collectively have generated 2.76 expected goals when Doan is on the ice but have only capitalized once. As he skates alongside key players like Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin on the power play, his scoring is likely just around the corner.

Game Strategy and Side Bets

With Lindy Ruff unable to dictate matchups on the road, Doan and teammate Josh Norris may end up facing less intimidating competition, potentially increasing their scoring chances. Therefore, I suggest rounding out your parlay with a bet on the Sabres to win outright. Given their superior chance creation, they could secure a victory if Doan and Norris manage to hit the scoreboard.

Parlay Suggestions

  • Josh Doan Over 0.5 points
  • Josh Norris Over 0.5 points
  • Sabres to win (moneyline)

Potential Goal Scorer

Look for Josh Doan to net one tonight, currently listed at +305. He’s been effective in finding scoring opportunities, ranking just behind Thompson in chances this series. His shooting percentage history suggests he can translate those chances into goals.

Current Odds for Game 3

  • Moneyline: Sabres -110 | Bruins -110
  • Puck Line: Sabres -1.5 (+215) | Bruins +1.5 (-270)
  • Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-135) | Under 5.5 (+115)

Trends to Note

Doan’s average of 2.5 shots on goal in six encounters with the Bruins this season is worth noting when assessing his impact on the game.

Viewership Information

Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA
When: Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET
Broadcast On: TNT

The betting odds were accurate at the time of publishing but are subject to change. Please note that this information is not intended for use in Massachusetts.

Our team has diligently vetted each product featured on our site and may receive compensation through links.

For further details, you can explore the original article on Covers.com and discover our top sportsbook promotions.