The chase for the 2026 Stanley Cup officially begins on April 18, with the championship series slated to wrap up no later than June 21. This year’s postseason delivers a massive shakeup for American hockey fans, defined by historic returns and shocking absences.
The Colorado Avalanche lead the charge, having dominated the regular season to claim the Presidents’ Trophy with 121 points. In a stunning turn of events, the two-time defending champion Florida Panthers missed the cut entirely. Adding to the shock, the New York metropolitan area has been completely shut out; for the first time since 1966, the Rangers, Islanders, and Devils all failed to qualify.
On a brighter note, several long-standing droughts are over. The Buffalo Sabres are back after a record 14 years, alongside the Anaheim Ducks (eight years) and the Philadelphia Flyers (six years). The expansion Utah Mammoth also made waves, reaching the playoffs in just their second season. US fans can catch the opening action across the ESPN and TNT families of networks.
First Round Matchups and Series Odds
As the best-of-seven elimination series kick off, the betting markets at Bet365 have set the lines for which teams will advance to the second round.
Eastern Conference
- Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins: The returning Sabres (1.55) are favored over the Bruins (2.50).
- Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Philadelphia Flyers: In a fierce Pennsylvania clash, the Penguins sit at 1.64 to eliminate the Flyers (2.30).
- Carolina Hurricanes vs. Ottawa Senators: The Metropolitan Division champion Hurricanes (1.58) take on the Senators (2.45).
- Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Montreal Canadiens: The Lightning (1.40) look to push past the Canadiens (3.00).
Western Conference
- Colorado Avalanche vs. Los Angeles Kings: The top-seeded Avalanche are massive favorites (1.20) against the Kings (4.75).
- Vegas Golden Knights vs. Utah Mammoth: The Golden Knights (1.54) welcome the Mammoth (2.55) to the postseason.
- Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild: The Stars (1.83) face a tightly projected battle against the Wild (2.00).
- Edmonton Oilers vs. Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks (2.95) have a tough test ahead against the heavily favored Oilers (1.41).
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Stanley Cup Outright Winner Odds
Looking at the big picture, Bet365 firmly positions the Colorado Avalanche as the team to beat for the championship. Here is the full breakdown of the outright odds across the 16-team field:
- The Favorites: Colorado Avalanche (4.00), Tampa Bay Lightning (5.25), Carolina Hurricanes (5.75).
- In the Hunt: Vegas Golden Knights (11.00), Dallas Stars (12.00), Edmonton Oilers (13.00), Ottawa Senators (15.00).
- Middle of the Pack: Buffalo Sabres (17.00), Minnesota Wild (17.00), Pittsburgh Penguins (26.00), Montreal Canadiens (26.00).
- The Longshots: Utah Mammoth (36.00), Los Angeles Kings (61.00), Anaheim Ducks (61.00), Boston Bruins (61.00), Philadelphia Flyers (61.00).
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