The Start of the 2024-25 NHL Season: A New Chapter Begins
As the puck dropped on the 2024-25 NHL season in Czechia, the New Jersey Devils kicked off the campaign with a decisive 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. This opening game not only marked the beginning of a new season but also set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating journey toward the Stanley Cup. Back in North America, all eyes are on the league’s most celebrated player, Connor McDavid, as fans and analysts alike speculate whether this could finally be the year he captures the coveted trophy.
Edmonton Oilers: The Favorites
Following their impressive run to the Stanley Cup Final last season, the Edmonton Oilers have emerged as the consensus favorites to win it all in 2025. With betting odds ranging from +700 to +850, the Oilers are seen as a formidable force. Connor McDavid, the team’s superstar, is also the frontrunner for the Hart Memorial Trophy, boasting odds around +150, significantly ahead of his competitors.
Matthew Rasp, a senior sports trader at BetMGM, noted the overwhelming support for the Oilers, stating, "The money’s been coming in on the Oilers ever since the season ended last year." This sentiment reflects a broader belief that McDavid’s narrative could culminate in a Stanley Cup victory, a storyline that has captivated fans and bettors alike.
The Competitive Landscape
While the Oilers are drawing significant attention, the NHL is known for its unpredictability, especially as the playoffs approach in April. Historical trends suggest that many of the usual contenders will likely emerge as playoff teams. Karry Shreeve, head of hockey at Caesars Sportsbook, pointed out that over the past decade, 12 out of 16 playoff teams have returned the following year, indicating a level of consistency among top performers.
Florida Panthers: Defending Champions
The Florida Panthers, fresh off their first Stanley Cup victory, are looking to repeat their success. After a remarkable season where they exceeded expectations with a record of 46-18-2, the Panthers are set with a regular-season point total of 102.5 and odds of +1000 to win the Cup. Their journey to back-to-back championships would make them the first team to do so since the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022.
Despite their championship pedigree, sportsbooks report that the Panthers are not attracting as much betting interest as the Oilers. Johnny Avello from DraftKings noted, "Just because they won last year doesn’t mean they’ll win the following year," highlighting the challenges of repeating as champions.
Emerging Contenders
As the season unfolds, several teams are emerging as potential dark horses. The New York Rangers, with odds of +1400, are consistently among the most wagered teams, while the Colorado Avalanche, former champions, are also gaining traction with +1100 odds. The Nashville Predators, who made significant offseason acquisitions, are attracting attention as well, with odds of +1600.
Interestingly, the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs are also in the mix, with odds of +1000 and +1200, respectively. Bettors are keenly watching these teams as the season progresses, looking for value in the betting markets.
A New Franchise in Utah
The 2024-25 season marks a historic moment for the NHL as the Utah Hockey Club begins operations after relocating from Arizona. While the team faces skepticism regarding its chances—starting with 100-1 odds to win the Cup—there is notable interest in their potential. BetMGM reports that Utah has garnered 17.2% of the handle to win the Western Conference, indicating a strong backing from bettors eager to support the new franchise.
Awards Season: McDavid and Beyond
With the season underway, the race for individual awards is heating up. Connor McDavid is the clear favorite for the Hart Trophy, with odds of +140 and significant betting support. Other contenders like Auston Matthews and Nathan MacKinnon are also in the mix, but McDavid’s dominance is hard to overlook.
The Jack Adams Award, given to the coach of the year, is another area of interest. Sheldon Keefe, now with the Devils, is the consensus leader, while Lindy Ruff, returning to the Sabres, has seen a surge in betting interest as fans speculate on his potential to lead the team out of a lengthy playoff drought.
The Great 895: Ovechkin’s Quest
One of the most intriguing narratives this season revolves around Alex Ovechkin and his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record. With just 42 goals needed to surpass Gretzky’s mark of 894, Ovechkin’s journey is a focal point for many fans. Despite a dip in production last season, sportsbooks are offering odds of +1000 for him to break the record, reflecting the excitement surrounding this milestone.
As the 2024-25 NHL season unfolds, the anticipation builds. With a mix of established powerhouses, emerging contenders, and a new franchise, fans are in for a thrilling ride filled with drama, excitement, and the quest for the ultimate prize—the Stanley Cup.