The NHL season always sparks heated debates in sports betting communities. Who are the true favorites for the Stanley Cup, and where do the hockey odds provide a value pick?
Heading into 2025–26, the Florida Panthers chase a historic three-peat, priced as the betting favorite around +600 at most sportsbooks. The Edmonton Oilers, led by Connor McDavid, sit near +700, while the Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche hover around +800. Bettors can find better returns by line shopping across major betting markets like Bet365, FanDuel, DraftKings, William Hill, and Betway.
NHL betting offers unique wagering options: the puck line (hockey’s version of the point spread) often sits at -1.5, rewarding teams that win by two or more. Savvy punters mix puck lines with moneyline wagers, or even combine futures into parlays.
Discipline remains essential. Bankroll management keeps bettors from chasing losses during a long season. Punters who study match previews and injury reports often find hidden value bets, especially when betting on underdogs to cover the spread.
The NHL’s parity makes outright odds fascinating. Every team has a shot — and bettors who back the right side early can hold a golden betting slip by spring.
