Avalanche, Panthers Lead Stanley Cup Playoffs Odds

The Colorado Avalanche and Florida Panthers enter the 2025 NHL playoffs as consensus favorites to win the Stanley Cup, with both teams listed at or near +750 odds at major sportsbooks. Despite strong regular seasons, the field is tightly packed, with seven teams having odds shorter than +1000, reflecting the parity and unpredictability of the NHL postseason. The Avalanche are heavily backed by bettors, while the Panthers, who are seeking to repeat as champions, have drawn less betting action but remain a top contender. The Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Tampa Bay Lightning are also viewed as strong competitors, with Carolina favored in their opening series and Dallas facing roster challenges due to injuries. Bookmakers and bettors show little agreement beyond the top teams, highlighting the wide-open nature of this year's playoffs. The Western Conference, in particular, is seen as especially competitive, with four of the six teams with the best odds coming from the West.