As the 2024-25 NHL regular season nears its end and the Stanley Cup Playoffs picture becomes clearer, significant shifts are occurring in NHL betting odds. Recent trade acquisitions are integrating into their new teams, leading to dramatic changes in futures odds at sportsbooks.
Expert handicapper Jimmie Kaylor has analyzed the latest betting trends and NHL futures odds from BetMGM, providing his top picks for the Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, James Norris Memorial Trophy, and Calder Memorial Trophy.
Kaylor previously demonstrated his expertise by correctly predicting Nathan MacKinnon as the first goal scorer in the 4 Nations Face-Off Final and the game finishing under 5.5 goals. His analysis of the latest NHL odds offers valuable insights for future bets on the Stanley Cup and NHL player awards.
2025 Stanley Cup Odds (at BetMGM)
| 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 the most popular bet for the Stanley Cup at BetMGM, followed by the Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vegas Golden Knights. However, in terms of total money wagered, the Winnipeg Jets lead, followed by the Avalanche and Stars. BetMGM sportsbook`s biggest potential payouts are on bets for the Oilers, Jets, and Detroit Red Wings to win the Stanley Cup. While the Panthers began the season as favorites, they are now closely followed by the Stars, Oilers, and Avalanche.
For betting value, the surging Western Conference teams are notable. The potential first-round matchup between Colorado and Dallas means a top contender will be eliminated early. This makes the Oilers, who were close to winning the Stanley Cup last year, an attractive bet at 7-1.
Best Bet: Edmonton Oilers +700
Hart Memorial Trophy Odds (at BetMGM)
| 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 surged in the Hart Trophy race, becoming the clear favorite. While Hellebuyck`s momentum is strong, Nathan MacKinnon at +350 presents significant value. MacKinnon leads the high-scoring Avalanche and is a compelling option in this three-player race.
Best bet: Nathan MacKinnon (+350)
James Norris Trophy Odds (at BetMGM)
| Current Odds | Last Week Odds | Opening Odds | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quinn Hughes | +4000 | +1800 | +600 |
| Zach Werenski | +325 | +190 | +10000 |
| Cale Makar | -650 | -300 | +250 |
Cale Makar is the overwhelming favorite to win the 2025 James Norris Trophy, which would be his second time receiving the award for the NHL`s best defenseman. Betting on Makar at -650 offers little value unless placing a substantial wager.
Best value bet: Cale Makar (-650) at 3+ units
Calder Memorial Trophy Odds (at BetMGM)
| 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 |
Macklin Celebrini, who entered the draft with significant hype, has lived up to expectations. With 50 points (21 goals, 29 assists), Celebrini has seamlessly become the San Jose Sharks` first-line center. Similar to Makar in the Norris race, betting on Celebrini at -145 for the Calder Trophy offers limited value. While Lane Hutson is gaining momentum, the award is still likely Celebrini`s to win.
Best Bet: Macklin Celebrini (-145)
