2025 Stanley Cup and NHL Awards: Expert Betting Insights

As the 2024-25 NHL regular season approaches its final stretch and the Stanley Cup Playoffs are on the horizon, anticipation builds. Following significant roster changes at the NHL trade deadline, including moves involving All-Stars like Mikko Rantanen, Brad Marchand, and Brock Nelson, the latest NHL betting odds have seen considerable shifts at sportsbooks.

SportsLine expert Jimmie Kaylor has analyzed the most recent NHL futures odds and has revealed his top picks for the Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, James Norris Memorial Trophy, and Calder Memorial Trophy.

Kaylor previously demonstrated his expertise by accurately predicting Nathan MacKinnon as the first goal scorer in the 4 Nations Face-Off Final, with the game concluding under 5.5 goals. MacKinnon indeed scored first, resulting in a 13-1 payout, and the game ended 3-2 in favor of Canada.

Having thoroughly examined the updated NHL odds, Kaylor has now finalized his premier futures bets for the Stanley Cup and key NHL player awards.

2025 Stanley Cup Odds

The Avalanche are currently seeing the most betting interest, but the Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, and Detroit Red Wings represent the biggest potential payouts for sportsbooks. Despite roster changes, the Panthers remain the favorites to win the Stanley Cup.

The Oilers, with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are an intriguing contender, and the Stars have strengthened their team with Mikko Rantanen. However, Colorado is seen as the team that improved the most significantly at the trade deadline.

Colorado acquired Martin Necas and Jack Drury initially, and further bolstered their roster with Brock Nelson, Charlie Coyle, Jimmy Vesey, Ryan Lindgren, and Erik Johnson. Crucially, they addressed their goaltending earlier in the season by adding Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood. With enhanced depth, physicality, and star players like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the Avalanche are a strong contender.

Best Bet: Colorado Avalanche +850

Hart Memorial Trophy Odds

Draisaitl has overtaken his teammate Connor McDavid in odds and is now the clear favorite for the 2025 Hart Memorial Trophy. While Hellebuyck is a popular bet, MacKinnon, leading the league in points and playing for a top team, presents betting value at +475.

Although Draisaitl is expected to win, MacKinnon offers the most appealing betting opportunity.

Best bet: Nathan MacKinnon (+475)

James Norris Trophy Odds

Makar is heavily favored to win the 2025 James Norris Trophy for the second time. Betting on Makar at -300 offers limited value, but Werenski at +190 could be a worthwhile value bet.

Best value bet: Zach Werenski (+190)

Calder Memorial Trophy Odds

Celebrini, who entered the draft with significant hype, has lived up to expectations, scoring 48 points for San Jose. Similar to Makar in the Norris race, Celebrini at -225 doesn’t offer much value, but he is the clear frontrunner for the Calder Trophy.

Best Bet: Macklin Celebrini (-225)