NHL 2026 Championship Odds: Panthers Lead Early Stanley Cup Favorites
As the 2026 NHL season approaches, the betting markets are painting a clear picture of championship expectations. The defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers lead the way, but several contenders are positioned to make serious runs at hockey's ultimate prize.
The early odds reveal interesting storylines across both conferences, from established powerhouses to rising challengers looking to break through. Here's how the Stanley Cup championship picture shapes up as of September 2, 2025.
Stanley Cup Championship Favorites
| Rank | Team | Best Odds | Conference | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Florida Panthers | +750 | Eastern | Defending champions, proven playoff experience |
| 2 | Carolina Hurricanes | +900 | Eastern | Strong defensive system, consistent regular season success |
| 3 | Edmonton Oilers | +900 | Western | McDavid and Draisaitl offensive firepower |
| 4 | Colorado Avalanche | +1000 | Western | Elite talent, Stanley Cup pedigree |
| 5 | Dallas Stars | +1012 | Western | Deep roster, strong goaltending |
| 6 | Vegas Golden Knights | +1076 | Western | 2023 Cup winners, veteran leadership |
| 7 | Tampa Bay Lightning | +1600 | Eastern | Championship experience, Stamkos era veterans |
| 8 | New Jersey Devils | +1900 | Eastern | Young core with Hughes brothers leading the way |
| 9 | Toronto Maple Leafs | +2100 | Eastern | Star-studded lineup, playoff breakthrough needed |
| 10 | Los Angeles Kings | +2700 | Western | Solid two-way play, experienced leadership |
| 11 | Winnipeg Jets | +2800 | Western | Strong home ice advantage, Hellebuyck in net |
| 12 | Washington Capitals | +3084 | Eastern | Ovechkin chasing records, veteran core |
Eastern Conference Outlook
The Eastern Conference appears wide open, with the defending champion Panthers sitting as favorites at +750. Their championship experience and solid core give them the edge, but several challengers are positioned to make serious runs.
Carolina continues to get respect from oddsmakers at +900, thanks to their consistent regular season performance and Rod Brind'Amour's system. The Lightning at +1600 represent solid value, considering their championship pedigree and ability to peak in the playoffs.
The New Jersey Devils (+1900) and Toronto Maple Leafs (+2100) represent the next generation trying to break through, each with unique storylines heading into the season.
Eastern Conference Dark Horses
Keep an eye on the Ottawa Senators at +3500. Their young core is maturing rapidly, and they could be a surprise playoff team. The New York Rangers at +3604 have the talent to make noise if their veterans stay healthy.
Western Conference Battleground
The Western Conference looks particularly competitive, with several legitimate contenders separated by narrow margins.
Edmonton sits at +900, powered by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's dynamic partnership. Their playoff run last season showed they can compete with anyone when their stars are clicking.
The Colorado Avalanche (+1000) remain dangerous despite injury concerns. When healthy, their combination of skill and speed makes them a nightmare matchup for any opponent.
Dallas (+1012) and Vegas (+1076) round out the Western favorites, both teams with proven playoff formulas and deep organizational strength.
Western Conference Value Plays
The Winnipeg Jets at +2800 could offer solid value, especially if Connor Hellebuyck returns to Vezina form. Their home ice advantage in the playoffs has historically been significant.
Vancouver at +8000 might be worth a small wager if their young core takes another step forward this season.
Long Shot Considerations
While the Boston Bruins sit at +35000, their organizational strength means they're never completely out of contention. However, their aging core suggests this might be a rebuilding year.
The Detroit Red Wings (+10000) and Buffalo Sabres (+20000) represent teams in transition, with young talent that could surprise but likely need another season or two to mature.
Championship Prediction
The odds favor a competitive season with multiple legitimate contenders. The defending champion Panthers have the experience and talent to repeat, but the Western Conference appears deeper overall.
Early season performance will be crucial for teams like Edmonton and Colorado, who need to stay healthy to maximize their championship windows. Meanwhile, rising teams like New Jersey and Ottawa could provide the season's biggest surprises.
The odds referenced in this analysis are as of September 2, 2025 - for the most current NHL championship winner odds, visit our live futures page. With training camps opening soon, these numbers will shift significantly based on early season performance, injuries, and roster moves.