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Lane Hutson has been a much more aggressive shooter in the playoffs.
My Canadiens vs. Sabres predictions expect that to continue in a win or go home game where he'll get all the ice time he can handle.
Let's take a closer look at my NHL picks for Monday, May 18.
Canadiens vs Sabres Game 7 prediction
Canadiens vs Sabres best bet: Lane Hutson Over 1.5 shots (-115)
Lane Hutson has ramped up his shot volume significantly during the playoffs. He has averaged 5.8 attempts per game, well above his season average of 3.7.
It’s not one or big two games propping up his numbers. He attempted at least four shots in 11 of 13 games thus far.
He cleared 1.5 shots in 72% of his games this year when generating at least four attempts.
Hutson is being spoon-fed offensive zone starts and will see as much ice as he can handle in an elimination game, setting him up to fire away.
Canadiens vs Sabres Game 7 same-game parlay
Alex Newhook has been a constant headache to the Buffalo Sabres. He leads the Montreal Canadiens in shots on goal and scoring chances at 5-on-5, and we’re unlikely to see much special teams play in a Game 7.
That makes even-strength play even more important, and Newhook has consistently made an impact in that state.
Kaiden Guhle blocked multiple shots in five of his last six road games, including all three against Buffalo. He combined for 10 blocks in Buffalo, and will be relied upon to lead the charge defensively in Game 7.
Canadiens vs Sabres SGP
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Lane Hutson Over 1.5 shots
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Alex Newhook Over 1.5 shots
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Kaiden Guhle Over 1.5 blocked shots
Canadiens vs Sabres odds for Game 7
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Moneyline: Montreal -105 | Buffalo -115
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Puck Line: Montreal +1.5 (-280) | Buffalo -1.5 (+225)
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Over/Under: Over 5.5 (+105) | Under 5.5 (-125)
Canadiens vs Sabres trend
The Montreal Canadiens have hit the moneyline in 14 of their last 20 away games (+8.6 units, 37% ROI) Find more NHL betting trends for Canadiens vs. Sabres.
How to watch Canadiens vs Sabres Game 7
Location
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
Date
Monday, May 18, 2026
Puck drop
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Canadiens 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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