The Lightning are one of the toughest defensive units in the NHL this season, conceding 44 goals (3.1 per game) to rank 10th. With 22 points, on 11 goals and 11 assists (all team highs), Kucherov is leading the way for Tampa Bay this season.

Two of the top players to keep an eye on when the Tampa Bay Lightning meet the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday at Amalie Arena — the puck drops at 7:00 PM ET — are the Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov and the Jets’ Kyle Connor.

When the Vegas Golden Knights meet the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on Wednesday (beginning at 10:00 PM ET), Jack Eichel and Troy Terry should be among the best players to keep an eye on. See below to read more about Ducks vs.

See below to read more about Sabres vs. Blues leaders, insights, and a predicted winner. Watch Buffalo Sabres vs. St. Louis Blues on ESPN+. Our prediction uses a team strength comparison algorithm, which includes multiple factors such as strength of wins and scoring margin.

Welcome back to the return of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play in.