The Stanley Cup playoffs are known for their unpredictability, where teams often outperform expectations and make a surprising run to the final. One of the most iconic underdog stories is the 2005-06 Carolina Hurricanes, who opened the regular season with odds of 60-1 to win the title but defied the odds and lifted the Stanley Cup. Fast forward 18 years, and the Hurricanes are now entering the playoffs as the favorites to win it all, but with the longest odds of any favorite in the past 40 seasons. This shift from underdogs to favorites showcases the ever-changing landscape of the NHL playoffs.
Despite being viewed as the strongest team in the playoffs, the Hurricanes face a tough path to the final due to the overall strength of the competition. Bookmakers and experts alike agree that this year’s playoffs are as wide open as they have seen in years. With six teams having odds of +800 or shorter, the race to the Stanley Cup is tighter than ever. Every team in the field has a legitimate case to make a serious run at the title, highlighting the level of parity in this year’s playoffs.
While the Hurricanes may be the favorites according to the odds, they are not necessarily the most popular pick among bettors. Teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Boston Bruins, and Edmonton Oilers have all garnered significant bets and money throughout the season. However, it is the New York Rangers, winners of the Presidents’ Trophy, who are leading the pack in terms of popularity among bettors. Their status as the most popular team, coupled with their strong performance, has made them a significant liability for sportsbooks.
On the contrary, some of the lesser-known teams in lower-profile markets, such as the Florida Panthers, Vancouver Canucks, and Winnipeg Jets, have not attracted as much attention from bettors despite their impressive performances. Teams like the Panthers and Canucks, who won their respective divisions after opening the season with long odds, have flown under the radar in terms of betting interest. This lack of attention from bettors has been a relief for sportsbooks, as the liability on these teams is significantly lower compared to others.
Liabilities and Relief
While some teams generate excitement and interest from bettors, others become liabilities for sportsbooks. The Detroit Red Wings, New Jersey Devils, and Pittsburgh Penguins have all accumulated significant tickets and handle throughout the season, increasing the liability for sportsbooks. The Rangers, with their strong performance and popularity, have been a hot ticket among bettors, making them one of the biggest liabilities for sportsbooks. On the other hand, teams like the Panthers and Canucks have been a relief for sportsbooks, as they have not attracted as much attention despite their success on the ice.
The Stanley Cup playoffs are a roller coaster of odds and outcomes, with underdogs turning into favorites and surprises waiting at every turn. The level of parity in this year’s playoffs makes it anyone’s game, with every team having a chance to make a deep run. While some teams enjoy the spotlight and popularity among bettors, others fly under the radar and provide relief for sportsbooks. As the playoffs unfold, it will be interesting to see which teams defy the odds and create their own legacy on the road to the Stanley Cup.
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