As the 2024-25 NHL regular season approaches its conclusion, the playoff outlook for the Stanley Cup is becoming increasingly clear. Several significant acquisitions made at the trade deadline, such as Mikko Rantanen, Brad Marchand, and Brock Nelson, are integrating into their respective teams and establishing consistent roles. These recent roster changes have led to considerable shifts in the latest NHL betting odds.
SportsLine`s expert handicapper, Jimmie Kaylor, has thoroughly examined the most recent betting trends and NHL futures odds. He has identified his top selections for winning the Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, James Norris Memorial Trophy, and Calder Memorial Trophy.
In the 4 Nations Face-Off Final, Kaylor accurately predicted Nathan MacKinnon to score the first goal and the game to conclude with fewer than 5.5 goals. MacKinnon indeed scored the game`s opening goal, resulting in a 13-1 payout, and the game concluded with a 3-2 victory for Canada.
Kaylor has analyzed the latest NHL odds and finalized his premier futures bets for the Stanley Cup and various NHL player awards.
2025 Stanley Cup Odds
Team | Current Odds | Last Week Odds | Opening Odds |
---|---|---|---|
Vegas Golden Knights | +1100 | +1100 | +1000 |
Carolina Hurricanes | +1050 | +1000 | +1100 |
Washington Capitals | +1000 | +1000 | +10000 |
Colorado Avalanche | +800 | +850 | +1000 |
Edmonton Oilers | +700 | +750 | +1000 |
Dallas Stars | +600 | +600 | +1000 |
Florida Panthers | +550 | +550 | +900 |
The Avalanche are currently leading in ticket count, followed by the Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vegas Golden Knights. In terms of overall handle, the Winnipeg Jets are in the lead, followed by the Avalanche and Stars. The sportsbook`s biggest liabilities are currently the Oilers, Jets, and Detroit Red Wings. While the Panthers began the season as favorites to win the Stanley Cup again, they remain the favorite, closely trailed by the Stars, Oilers, and Avalanche.
Regarding betting value, the three teams making significant strides in the Western Conference are particularly noteworthy. Colorado and Dallas are on track for a first-round playoff series, guaranteeing an early exit for one of the league`s top teams. Considering this, the Oilers, who were just one game away from winning last year`s Stanley Cup, present an appealing betting option at 7-1 odds.
Best Bet: Edmonton Oilers +700
Hart Memorial Trophy Odds
Player | Current Odds | Last Week Odds | Opening Odds |
---|---|---|---|
Nathan MacKinnon | +350 | +475 | +550 |
Leon Draisaitl | +250 | -165 | +2200 |
Connor Hellebuyck | -220 | +115 | +15000 |
Connor Hellebuyck has experienced a significant surge in the Hart Trophy race this week and is now considered the clear favorite to win the prestigious award. Given current trends, it`s challenging to bet against Hellebuyck. However, within this three-player race, Nathan MacKinnon stands out as a compelling option. At +350, MacKinnon, who leads the Avalanche in scoring during their current hot streak, is the only genuine value play here.
Best bet: Nathan MacKinnon (+350)
James Norris Trophy Odds
Player | Current Odds | Last Week Odds | Opening Odds |
---|---|---|---|
Quinn Hughes | +4000 | +1800 | +600 |
Zach Werenski | +325 | +190 | +10000 |
Cale Makar | -650 | -300 | +250 |
There isn`t much complexity to analyze here. Cale Makar is decisively leading the race for the 2025 James Norris Trophy, which would mark the second occasion in his career that he is recognized as the NHL`s best defenseman. Betting on Makar at -650 at this point offers limited value, unless you are prepared to risk three or more units.
Best value bet: Cale Makar (-650) at 3+ units
Calder Memorial Trophy Odds
Player | Current Odds | Last Week Odds | Opening Odds |
---|---|---|---|
Matvei Michkov | +4000 | +800 | +350 |
Dustin Wolf | +1600 | +1000 | +1500 |
Lane Hutson | +100 | +260 | +700 |
Macklin Celebrini | -145 | -225 | +400 |
Celebrini entered the league with hype comparable to Connor Bedard, and the 18-year-old phenom has not disappointed. Celebrini has accumulated 50 points (21 goals, 29 assists) and seamlessly transitioned into the center position on San Jose`s top line. Similar to Makar in the Norris Trophy race, betting on Celebrini at -145 currently offers limited value. While Lane Hutson is gaining momentum, the Calder Memorial Trophy is still largely considered Celebrini`s to lose.
Best Bet: Macklin Celebrini (-145)