Panthers open as favorites to win Stanley Cup

The National Hockey League (NHL) Stanley Cup playoffs are the most prestigious event in professional ice hockey, and the 2023 edition is shaping up to be an exciting one. According to the latest betting odds from ESPN Bet, the Florida Panthers have been installed as the favorites to win the Stanley Cup this season, with a betting line of -125. This means that $125 would need to be wagered on the Panthers to win $100.

The Panthers have had an impressive regular season, finishing first in the Atlantic Division with a record of 53 wins, 18 regulation losses, and 7 overtime losses. They boast a potent offense, led by forwards such as Aleksander Barkov, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Carter Verhaeghe, who have combined for 178 goals and 387 points this season. In goal, Sergei Bobrovsky has been solid, posting a 31-16-6 record and a .913 save percentage.

The Edmonton Oilers, on the other hand, are currently priced as underdogs at +105. This means that a $105 bet on the Oilers would result in a $100 profit if they were to win the Stanley Cup. The Oilers have had an up-and-down season but have managed to secure a playoff spot in the Pacific Division. Their success hinges on the performance of their star player, Connor McDavid, who has been outstanding once again, recording 116 points (33 goals and 83 assists) in 78 games.

In addition to the Stanley Cup betting odds, ESPN Bet also lists McDavid as the favorite to win the Conn Smythe Trophy, which is awarded annually to the most valuable player during the Stanley Cup playoffs. McDavid is priced at +200 for this honor, meaning a $200 bet would result in a $100 profit if he were to win the award. McDavid has been a finalist for the Conn Smythe Trophy twice before but has yet to take home the hardware. This year, he will be looking to lead the Oilers deep into the playoffs and secure his first Stanley Cup championship while winning the Conn Smythe Trophy.

The 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs are set to begin in April, and both the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers will be eager to make their mark on the league's most coveted prize. The excitement surrounding these teams and their respective chances of winning the Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe Trophy is sure to build as the playoffs approach. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling NHL postseason.