2023-2024 NHL Stanley Cup Winner Odds, Picks & Predictions
It’s only been two weeks since the Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Florida Panthers to win the franchise’s first ever Stanley Cup. But, while the Golden Knights bask in the glory of their championship, we bettors are already looking into who the top candidates are to hoist Lord Stanley’s cup this time next year.
For what it’s worth, this piece is being written before the NHL Draft and free agency, which means we aren’t operating with the most information at our disposal. However, placing a future bet before offseason transactions are made can score you some decent value as sportsbooks adjust their odds to big moves.
These aren’t big bets by any stretch. It is June after all. In any event, below are some teams I’ve got my eye on for a future bet next season.
Early Bets to Win the 2023-24 Stanley Cup
All odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
New Jersey Devils (12/1)
The Devils are a team I’ll be keying on during the 2023-24 season. The young, upstart club had a tremendous season that ultimately ended in the second round. But make no mistake, this team is here to stay. Led by young stars Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, New Jersey posted the fourth-best expected goals for percentage in the league at 5-on-5 play last season.
New Jersey also has roughly $20 million in salary cap space to work with this offseason. Re-signing winger Timo Meier will likely be the team’s top priority. But I’d love to see the Devils acquire an upgrade between the pipes this offseason. It wouldn’t surprise me if they’re in the mix for Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck, who has one year left on his current contract and could be made available if Winnipeg opts to tear things down.
After falling short this season, New Jersey has the high-end talent and now playoff experience to go on a deeper run in 2024.
Seattle Kraken (40/1)
Could it be two expansion teams in a row to hoist the Cup? It’s certainly possible. But regardless, these odds are underestimating a Kraken team that knocked out the defending champions in the first round of the playoffs.
While there isn’t a ton of starpower in Seattle, the Kraken possess a deep, balanced roster with many of their key players signed through at least the 2023-24 season. Retaining defenseman Vince Dunn and right wing Daniel Sprong will be top offseason priorities. The Kraken have roughly $20 million in cap space with which to work in free agency.
Like New Jersey, Seattle is a team I’d prefer to make an upgrade at goalie. While Philipp Grubauer was sensational in the team’s opening round victory over Colorado, he was a below average netminder throughout the regular season. The Kraken could be in on the Hellebuyck sweepstakes, or could turn their attention to solid UFAs such as Semyon Varlamov, Frederik Andersen or Joonas Korpisalo should they hit the open market.
The fact is, the Kraken deserve more respect.
Other Considerations
The odds are a little steep, but the Los Angeles Kings could warrant a look at 25/1, especially if they bring back Korpisalo. The question is whether Los Angeles’ core is enough to win it all.
Finally, if you’re looking to throw a few bucks on a complete long shot, I don’t hate Columbus at 150/1. The Blue Jackets stunk this season, but they will return their dynamic duo of Johnny Gaudreau and Patrik Laine. Plus, they should get an NHL ready and potential impact rookie with the third overall pick in the draft. There have been far worse teams with similar odds to Columbus.
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