The NHL playoff race is heating up, and sportsbooks are seeing significant movement in the Stanley Cup futures market. With Alex Ovechkin on the verge of history and several teams drawing sharp betting interest, BetMGM has released key insights into where the money and tickets are going ahead of the 2024-25 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Will Alex Ovechkin Break the Goal Record?
One of the most heavily bet NHL props at BetMGM surrounds Alex Ovechkin’s quest to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record. Ovechkin enters the tail end of the 2024-25 NHL season just four goals shy of 895, and bettors are hammering the “Yes” on him reaching the milestone.
- 79% of bets and 60% of the money are on Ovechkin to score his 895th career goal before the end of the season.
- The odds have moved significantly—from -110 at open to -300 currently, with a stop at -180 last week.
This prop has become one of the most talked-about NHL betting markets, and public confidence continues to drive the line toward a likely “Yes.”
Stanley Cup Odds: Notable Line Movement
Several teams have seen significant shifts in their Stanley Cup championship odds since the market opened:
- Florida Panthers: +900 → +575
- Dallas Stars: +1000 → +600
- Colorado Avalanche: +1000 → +750
This movement reflects strong regular-season performance and rising public perception, pushing these teams into true contender status.
Most Popular Stanley Cup Bets: Ticket % Leaders
When it comes to the number of total tickets, three teams are drawing significant public action:
- Colorado Avalanche: 10.0%
- Edmonton Oilers: 8.1%
- Vegas Golden Knights: 8.0%
The Avalanche have been a favorite among casual and sharp bettors alike, consistently sitting near the top of the betting handle and ticket percentages.
Where the Money’s Going: Handle% Breakdown
The handle tells a slightly different story, highlighting where the biggest bets are being placed:
- Winnipeg Jets: 11.5%
- Colorado Avalanche: 11.0%
- Dallas Stars: 9.6%
Despite lower ticket percentages, the Jets are taking in massive wagers, suggesting sharp interest or considerable liability exposure.
Teams Creating Sportsbook Liability
The top three most significant liabilities at BetMGM in the Stanley Cup futures market are:
- Edmonton Oilers
- Winnipeg Jets
- Detroit Red Wings
If any of these teams make a deep playoff run, BetMGM could be on the hook for major payouts.
Eastern Conference Futures Betting Breakdown
- Favorite: Florida Panthers (+250)
- Highest Ticket %: Washington Capitals (16.2%)
- Highest Handle%: Carolina Hurricanes (26.6%)
- Biggest Liability: Detroit Red Wings
While the Panthers lead the odds board, the Capitals have become a popular public pick. However, sharp money favors the Hurricanes, as evidenced by their dominant handle percentage.
Western Conference Futures Betting Breakdown
- Favorite: Dallas Stars (+300)
- Highest Ticket %: Colorado Avalanche (17.0%)
- Highest Handle%: Winnipeg Jets (42.5%)
- Biggest Liability: Winnipeg Jets
The Jets are the most interesting Western Conference case—their massive handle and liability signal severe sportsbook exposure. Meanwhile, the Avalanche continues to be popular, and the Stars remain betting favorites.
Final Thoughts: How to Bet the NHL Playoffs
As the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach, betting markets are becoming increasingly volatile. From Ovechkin’s goal record chase to significant line movement for key contenders, now is a crucial time for hockey bettors to evaluate futures and props.
Track line movement and public betting trends when placing your NHL wagers. Teams like the Jets and Oilers could become sportsbook nightmares if they make a run, while the Panthers and Stars have emerged as betting favorites across their respective conferences.
For more NHL betting insights and updated Stanley Cup odds, stay locked in with BetMGM Sportsbook.
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!
