As the 2024-25 NHL season builds momentum, Stanley Cup futures betting is heating up across major sportsbooks. BetMGM’s latest data reveals significant line movement, sharp betting handle trends, and notable liabilities in both conferences. Here’s a breakdown of the current Stanley Cup odds, betting favorites, and the most popular public picks heading into the heart of the season.
Stanley Cup Futures: Line Movement & Favorites
BetMGM has adjusted its 2024-25 Stanley Cup futures based on betting action and on-ice performance. Here are the biggest movers since opening:
Dallas Stars: Moved from +1000 to +650
Florida Panthers: Adjusted from +900 to +700
Colorado Avalanche: Shortened from +1000 to +750
This line movement indicates growing public and sharp interest in these teams, particularly the Stars and Avalanche, as legitimate Stanley Cup contenders.
Most Popular Stanley Cup Bets: Tickets & Handle
Highest Ticket Percentage
These teams have attracted the most total betting tickets at BetMGM:
Colorado Avalanche: 10.4%
Vegas Golden Knights: 8.3%
Toronto Maple Leafs: 8.2%
The Avalanche remain a perennial favorite among casual bettors thanks to their dynamic offense and playoff pedigree.
Highest Handle Percentage
Handle reveals where the money is going, often a more accurate indicator of sharp action:
Colorado Avalanche: 11.0%
Winnipeg Jets: 10.6%
Carolina Hurricanes: 10.0%
Heavy action on Winnipeg and Carolina shows respected bettors are backing these teams, possibly identifying value beyond the top favorites.
Stanley Cup Liabilities: Biggest Risks for Sportsbooks
When liability is high, sportsbooks could face significant losses if that team wins it all. As of now, BetMGM’s three biggest Stanley Cup liabilities are:
These teams may not be the odds-on favorites, but large wagers or a high volume of bets are making them risky for books.
Eastern Conference Betting Insights
The Eastern Conference race is tight, with multiple teams drawing strong interest:
Favorite to Win East: Florida Panthers (+340)
Highest Ticket%: Washington Capitals (16.8%)
Highest Handle%: Carolina Hurricanes (38.1%)
Although the Panthers lead the odds board, the Hurricanes command the majority of the money, suggesting bettors are backing Carolina to break through the East.
Western Conference Betting Insights
Out West, the field is led by a strong push for Dallas and Winnipeg:
Favorite to Win West: Dallas Stars (+340)
Highest Ticket%: Colorado Avalanche (16.9%)
Highest Handle%: Winnipeg Jets (40.2%)
Biggest Liability: St. Louis Blues
The Jets have emerged as a serious dark horse with the most money wagered on them to win the conference. Meanwhile, the Avalanche continue to be the public darling.
Stanley Cup Betting Takeaways
The 2024-25 NHL betting landscape shows an intriguing mix of chalk favorites and high-liability sleepers. Teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, and Florida Panthers are seeing strong support across tickets and money. However, watch sharp-driven teams like the Winnipeg Jets and Carolina Hurricanes.
For bettors looking for value, monitor line movement and handle trends weekly, especially as injuries and playoff races shift the board. Whether you’re betting on the conference title or Stanley Cup champion, staying ahead of market trends is key to gaining an edge.
New to sports betting? First, explore our Introduction to Sports Betting. Then check out our recommendations at Flip The Switch for online sportsbooks, along with offers to get started. And if you’re not an avid sports fan, you can still find some fun and unusual bets to enjoy!
