Montreal at Buffalo

Montreal had a makeover this offseason to try and change an underachieving team. Star defenseman P.K. Subban was dealt to the Nashville Predators while the offense never got going. The Canadiens offense netted 2.63 goals per contest last year to rank #16, and they converted on just 16.2 percent of their power plays, which was sixth-worst in the NHL. This offense is still a big question mark, while star goalie Carey Price will sit out Thursday's opener due to the flu. Montreal is on a 7-22 run on the road, yet they open as a road favorite. Rebuilding Buffalo upgraded the defense with newcomer Rasmus Ristolainen, plus goaltenders Robin Lehner and Anders Nilsson are healthy, which they weren't last year. The Sabres finished last season strong, winning 8 of 13, and this is a good spot for the home dog. Take Buffalo.