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The 2024/25 NHL season is finally underway, and for Canada’s finest, it’s been a mixed start to the campaign. Last season, the Edmonton Oilers were the pick of the Great White North contingent as they managed to reach the Stanley Cup finals for the first time since 2006 thanks to the brilliance of superstar Connor McDavid. Unfortunately for them though, it would end in heartbreak, rallying to overturn a 3-0 series deficit only to go on and lose in game seven to the Florida Panthers.
This season, the Alberta outfit hasn’t truly set the world alight, despite making Leon Draisaitl the highest-paid player in the NHL in the close season. Instead, it has been the Winnipeg Jets that have headed the Canadian charge. They have enjoyed a record-breaking start to the new season, winning 14 of their first 15 games to announce themselves as genuine championship contenders. But how much of a chance do the bookies give them at reigning supreme this term? Let’s find out.
Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers were the favourites for the Stanley Cup all season long last year before ultimately falling at the final hurdle. This year, they are again leading the pack, with the popular Bovada sports gambling site pricing them as the +750 favourites for the title this season. However, despite their lofty odds, they have yet to set the world alight so far this term.
After 15 games, they currently sit in the middle of the Pacific Division standings with a mediocre record of 7-7-1. The Oilers boast a star-studded lineup, including arguably the best player on the planet in the form of Connor McDavid as well as the tristy Robin to his Batman, Leon Draisaitl. Both players are critical to any success Edmonton may have this term, and they need to improve their form as soon as possible to bring an end to their early season inconsistencies.
Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs are the second most successful teams in NHL history, racking up a mighty 13 titles throughout their storied past. They are currently amid an almighty 58-year drought however, and they haven’t even come close to a championship in the years since. This term, the bookies certainly feel that they are in with a shout, pricing them as +1000 contenders.
The Ontario-based outfit is currently second in the Atlantic Division, with a record that reflects a strong start. The Leafs have won nine of their opening 16 games having been led along by offensive juggernauts Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Their defence has long been their Achilles heel in recent seasons, but that has been bolstered by key performances from Morgan Rielly, and if he continues to perform at a similar level, then the longest drought in the league could well come to an end at the end of the season.
Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets have started the new season in blistering fashion, prompting the bookies to slash their odds on championship glory down to +1500. They have won 14 of their first 15 games so far this term, cementing their position at the summit of the Central Division, four victories clear of the Minnesota Wild.
Under the guidance of coach Rick Bowness, the Manitoba outfit has demonstrated plenty of resilience on their record-breaking run, particularly thanks to standout performances from Connor Hellebuyck between the pipes and Kyle Connor leading the attack. Their ability to win close games – as evidenced by recent victories against Dallas and Tampa Bay – bodes well for their playoff aspirations.
Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks are valued at +1600 despite their stuttering start to the campaign. They are the only team to have defeated the Jets so far this term, but unfortunately, that hasn’t kicked them into life just yet, currently sitting 7-6 through 13. Their young core led by Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes offers a glimpse into a promising future, but whether they will come of age this term or in seasons to come remains to be seen.
Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators are the first of our Canadian long shots, coming in with lengthy odds of +7500. They have shown signs of growth under coach Travis Green, but they still seem some way short of a playoff calibre team. Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle have been offensive sparks, yet the team’s overall performance has been hindered by defensive lapses, seeing them slump to a 6-7 record. While playoffs might be a stretch this year, the Senators are laying the groundwork for future success.
Calgary Flames
The Calgary Flames are also in a rebuilding phase, something that is reflected in their +12500 odds. They currently hold a record of 7-5-3, indicating some competitive performances but overall inconsistency. They may not have much hope of a Stanley Cup this season, but expect them to be a live underdog in their clashes against some of the league’s heavyweights.
Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are the most successful team in NHL history, racking up a whopping 24 titles over the years. At present, however, their glory days have never seemed further away. They are currently rock bottom of the Atlantic Division, just as they have been for the last two seasons. They are currently the rank outsiders for the championship with odds of +20000, and they face an uphill battle this term.
