With the confetti still settling in Sunrise, sportsbooks have released early odds on who will capture the 2026 Stanley Cup. Despite Florida’s back-to-back titles, the Edmonton Oilers, Florida Panthers, Colorado Avalanche, and Carolina Hurricanes are currently viewed as the top contenders — all entering the race with high expectations.
🎖️ Who’s Leading the Pack?
- Oilers at +650 (DraftKings, BetMGM): Favoritism centers on Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s return from two straight Finals losses.
- Panthers at +700 (ESPN BET, BetMGM, FanDuel co-favorite): Florida’s exceptional depth and proven resilience—along with their top-seeded playoff run—secure strong backing.
- Avalanche at +700 (ESPN BET): Loaded roster, returning core of Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, and offseason rest give Colorado an edge.
- Hurricanes at +700–900: FanDuel places Carolina at +700, rewarding consistency and playoff performance.
🧭 What These Odds Mean
1. Oilers & Drought Pressure:
Canada’s longest Cup drought since 1993 intensifies the Oilers’ hunt. With McDavid’s window narrowing, sportsbooks seem confident it’s now or never.
2. Panthers Chasing the Historic 3‑Peat:
Florida seeks a feat unseen since the Islanders’ 1980s dynasty. But free-agent decisions and playoff wear could become pivotal questions.
3. Avalanche Offer Stability & Depth:
Colorado’s contract retention and addition of depth bring a “war-ready” appeal that oddsmakers favor .
4. Hurricanes Keep Buzz Alive:
Carolina’s +700 valuation on FanDuel reflects its reliability as a consistent postseason threat.
🗓️ Early Market Movers & Dark Horses
Other notable teams include:
- Dallas Stars (+900): Emerging balanced roster; riding off-season momentum.
- Vegas Golden Knights (+1200): Veterans with depth—always a threat.
- Tampa Bay, Toronto, New Jersey (+1400–2000): Outside bets with potential as long-term builds unfold .
- Long shots: Chicago and San Jose sit at a steep +50,000.
🎯 Betting Trends & What Fans Want to Know
ESPN BET’s director Adrian Horton summarized:
“Colorado’s edge is returnable contracts and offseason rest… while Florida and Edmonton face roster decisions and fatigue after deep runs”.
That insight reflects why the Avalanche are neck-and-neck with the top picks, and why Florida isn’t the runaway favorite — even as current champion.