Sabres vs Canadiens Game 7 odds, predictions: Who reaches conference finals?

May 18, 2026, 10:11 a.m. ET The Montreal Canadiens, unable to close out their series at home, will try to win a second consecutive Game 7 on the road. They did it in the first round against the Tampa Bay Lightning and will try again against the Buffalo Sabres on Monday, May 18. The Canadiens are 5-2 on the road this postseason, and the Sabres are 2-4 at home. The Canadiens are 16-9 all-time in Game 7s and can set an NHL record for most Game 7 victories if they win. They're currently tied with the Boston Bruins (16-15). The Sabres, meanwhile, are 1-6 all-time in Game 7s. A trip to the conference finals is on the line. How will Monday's game play out? Here are USA TODAY Sports predictions and odds for Game 7 of the Buffalo Sabres-Montreal Canadiens series. Mike Brehm: Sabres 5, Canadiens 3. History would seem to favor the Canadiens, who have forced Sabres coach Lindy Ruff to make a goalie change the last two games. But the Sabres stormed back and chased goalie Jakub Dobes in their 8-3 win in Game 6. Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson played big roles and they will again, even without any Game 7 experience. Kevin Skiver: Sabres 6, Canadiens 4. Both teams are scoring a lot lately, and a mix of fatigue and familiarity may well be a factor. Buffalo gets to play Game 7 at home having staved off elimination, and that will give the Sabres a big boost. With Montreal going into its 14th game this postseason, the Sabres advance to see a Carolina Hurricanes team that is undoubtedly just itching to play again at this point. Betting lines by BetMGM as of 9 a.m. on Monday, May 18: Sabres vs. Canadiens Game 7: How to watch, stream