The 2024-25 NHL season is underway, and all eyes are on Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers as they chase their first Stanley Cup title. With odds ranging from +700 to +850 across sportsbooks, the Oilers are the clear favorites to win it all this season. McDavid, widely regarded as the best player in the world, is also the frontrunner to win the Hart Memorial Trophy, with odds as low as +150.
Despite their short odds, the Oilers are seeing significant action from bettors, with many believing that this could finally be the year they break through and win the Cup. “I think people just feel that maybe the McDavid story can finally have that Stanley Cup ending,” said Matthew Rasp, senior sports trader at BetMGM.
The reigning champion Florida Panthers are also expected to make a strong push for the title, with odds of +1000 to win the Cup. However, they’re not seeing nearly as much action from bettors as the Oilers, with many believing that it’s difficult for teams to repeat as champions.
Other teams receiving significant attention from bettors include the New York Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, and Nashville Predators, who made several high-profile acquisitions in the offseason. The Utah Hockey Club, who relocated from Arizona, is also seeing some action, particularly in the Western Conference market.
In terms of individual awards, McDavid is dominating the odds to win the Hart Trophy, with upwards of 60% of the handle at several sportsbooks. The Jack Adams Award, given to the coach of the year, is also seeing some interesting action, with Sheldon Keefe and Lindy Ruff among the top contenders.
Finally, there are some fun specialty markets available this season, including odds on Alex Ovechkin to break Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record. Ovechkin needs just 42 more goals to stand alone as the NHL’s all-time leading scorer, but his ability to do so this season is dubious, with odds reflecting his declining production with age.
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