Oilers Named 2026 Stanley Cup Favorites After Finals Loss

The Florida Panthers won their second consecutive Stanley Cup by defeating the Edmonton Oilers in six games, but oddsmakers have installed the Oilers as early favorites for the 2026 Stanley Cup with +650 odds. The Panthers aim to become the first team to win three straight Cups since the 1980s, opening at +750, followed by the Colorado Avalanche (+800), Dallas Stars (+850), and Carolina Hurricanes (+900). The Panthers’ odds are impacted by the impending free agency of key players like Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand, while the Oilers are expected to keep their core, including Connor McDavid. The Dallas Stars, having made several deep playoff runs, are also among the top five favorites. All four conference finalists from the previous season are considered leading contenders according to early odds. These rankings may shift as offseason roster changes occur.