As the betting sites start lighting up with an increased interest in the NHL, this weekend’s slate of games brings some interesting matchups. According to price per head service news reports, the NHL will be adopting a new structure next year that will eliminate the current conference system. So this will be the last season that some of these teams get a chance to battle for a playoff spot against each other.

Saturday – Buffalo Sabres @ Pittsburgh Penguins

After a lot of posturing and emotional speeches, the Buffalo Sabres are still the same team it was last season. The defense is suspect and the offense cannot score goals. The Sabres have been bitten by the injury bug and have had as many as nine regulars out of the lineup and one point in the season. The Penguins are adjusting to life without captain Sidney Crosby again, but the Pens have a strong lineup that is still one of the best in the league.

Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins

Saturday – Los Angeles Kings @ Detroit Red Wings

The Los Angeles Kings’ management had seen enough inconsistency in the team and fired head coach Terry Murray. But the Kings will need more than a new head coach to beat the Detroit Red Wings. Detroit has figured out its defensive issues and is currently on a three-game winning streak.

Pick: Detroit Red Wings

Sunday – Calgary Flames @ Chicago Blackhawks

This will be a better game than most people would expect as the Flames have been playing some very good hockey lately. In its last 10 games, the Flames are 6-3-1. But that might not be enough to counteract the three-game winning streak that the Chicago Blackhawks have been riding lately.

Pick: Chicago Blackhawks