The Washington Capitals have clinched their spot in this year’s Stanley Cup final. On the same day that they made it, the betting odds were released for the 2019 NHL season. Even though we’re still a ways away, these are essentially the odds we’ll be looking at going into the offseason, according to BetDSI.
Not surprisingly, the Lightning lead the way atop the odds. After all, they finished with 113 points this past season, which was the best in the Eastern Conference. While the Nashville Predators and Winnipeg Jets finished with more, there are two reasons why they’re behind Tampa Bay. To start, the East is viewed as slightly weaker – in general. That means Tampa Bay should have an easier path. Secondly, the Lightning have their roster intact and don’t really have to make too many major decisions.
It’s interesting to see that Las Vegas will enter the offseason with odds of 6/1. That goes to show you just off everyone was about this team last year. The Golden Knights first opening odds were at 500/1. Now they’re the favorite to win the Western Conference, which is quite incredible.
The Pittsburgh Penguins, who won back-to-back Stanley Cups, are at 10/1 as they are always in the mix. The Toronto Maple Leafs, who are a strong young team, are also at 10/1. A lot of people are expecting them to take a leap forward. If they can solve their issues on the blue line, they’re going to be a serious Stanley Cup contender.
One of the oddities that we see here is the Washington Capitals. While they are this year’s winner of the East, they won’t be favored to win it next year. They are fifth in line, which is a bit bizarre. Typically, teams that win their conference are favored or close to favored for next season. The Caps have a history of underachieving in the playoffs, so that’s possibly why. Here’s a look at the rest of the odds.
Odds To Win 2019 Stanley Cup
Tampa Bay 6-1
Las Vegas 6-1
Nashville 7-1
Pittsburgh 10-1
Toronto 10-1
Boston 10-1
Winnipeg 12-1
Washington 12-1
Columbus 18-1
Anaheim 18-1
Colorado 22-1
New Jersey 22-1
Philadelphia 22-1
San Jose 22-1
Dallas 22-1
St. Louis 25-1
Los Angeles 25-1
Minnesota 25-1
Edmonton 30-1
Chicago 35-1
Montreal 40-1
New York 50-1
