NHL Betting Odds for the 2025-26 Season
As the NHL gears up for the 2025-26 season, sportsbooks have unveiled their latest betting odds for the divisional races, fueling excitement among hockey enthusiasts. The betting landscape reveals that traditional powerhouses continue to be favored, yet there’s a mix of emerging teams that could offer compelling betting opportunities. Let’s delve into the odds within each division.
Atlantic Division
At the forefront, the Florida Panthers are strongly positioned with odds of +135, followed by the Tampa Bay Lightning at +350 and the Toronto Maple Leafs at +390. Notably, teams like the Ottawa Senators (+750), Montreal Canadiens (+1500), and Detroit Red Wings (+3100) have been showing promise, hinting at competitive shifts. The Panthers, who have clinched two out of the last four division titles, face a challenging schedule next season, ranked as the fifth hardest. Nevertheless, their momentum from consecutive seasons suggests they remain a formidable force in the league. In contrast, the other teams strive to catch up to Florida’s dominance, with the Maple Leafs’ recent championship success marking a pivotal moment in the division’s landscape.
Pick: Florida Panthers (+135)
Metropolitan Division
In this division, the Carolina Hurricanes lead the way with +120 odds, bolstered by strong signings like Nikolaj Ehlers and K’Andre Miller. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils (+370) hope to rebound from a challenging previous season wrought with injuries, as do the New York Rangers (+550) following minor roster changes. The Washington Capitals (+650) are also expected to return to a more typical performance level after a nearly trophy-winning run. Carolina aims for its third divisional title in five years amidst what appears to be a one-team race.
Pick: Carolina Hurricanes (+120)
Pacific Division
In the Pacific, both the Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights are co-favorites at +155. The Golden Knights have reinforced their roster with key additions, including 100-point player Mitch Marner, while the Oilers seek to remain competitive through strategic roster adjustments. Traditional contenders like the Los Angeles Kings (+470) and burgeoning threats from the Anaheim Ducks (+5500) add layers of complexity to this divisional race, making it a battle likely to trend in favor of the Golden Knights as they eye another divisional crown.
Pick: Vegas Golden Knights (+155)
Central Division
The Central Division is poised for intense competition where the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche share the spotlight as co-favorites, both at +200. The Winnipeg Jets (+600), fresh from a stellar defensive record, aim to repeat their divisional triumph from last season. The emerging Utah Mammoth (+1000) look to disrupt the established order, powered by proactive management. All eyes will be on how the Jets’ retained defense can maintain its formidable prowess while adapting to overcome key player losses.
Pick: Winnipeg Jets (+600)
Rookie Spotlight
On the rookie front, Isaac Howard and Jimmy Snuggerud are positioned as the closest contenders to Montreal’s Ivan Demidov for the coveted Calder Trophy, a noteworthy subplot to follow as the season unfolds.
Title Question
As we approach the playoffs, the question remains: will this season finally see a first-time Stanley Cup champion in 2026? The betting odds suggest that many teams are vying for glory, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.
