A Canadian team hasn’t won the Stanley Cup since 1993, nor has a Canadian team appeared in a Final since 2011 (sorry for the reminder, Canucks fans). This year, with a Canadian team guaranteed at least a spot in the final four, PlayNow.com bettors remain undecided on which teams will win it all.
The Toronto Maple Leafs, who have the third-best odds (7.00), are receiving 7.8 per cent of bets on PlayNow.com to win the Stanley Cup, only slightly more than the Winnipeg Jets (23.00) who have 7.7 per cent. The Connor McDavid-led Edmonton Oilers (14.00) command 7.6 per cent of bets on PlayNow.com, and the Montreal Canadiens (36.00) are not far behind with 5.3 per cent.
While not Canadian, the Colorado Avalanche (8.00), who have been frontrunners all season, have the most backing with 8.2 per cent of all bets to win the Cup.
South of the border, much of the first-round betting intrigue lies in the Sunshine State, where for the first time in history the Florida Panthers will meet the defending champion Tampa Bay Lightning in an all-Florida playoff matchup. Despite being the underdog, the Panthers (2.37) are getting 70 per cent of the bets on PlayNow.com to upset the Lightning (1.57) and send the defending champs home early in the first round.
For Canucks fans keeping a close eye on the bottom of the NHL standings, once the regular season has concluded, PlayNow.com players can wager on the outcome of the upcoming NHL Draft Lottery, where the top of the draft order will be decided.
Through PlayNow.com, BCLC offers socially responsible gambling entertainment while generating income to benefit all British Columbians. Remember, play for fun, not to make money. For more information, visit GameSense.com.
*Odds listed are correct at time of posting but are subject to change at any time.
