Stanley Cup 2026 Outright Winner Odds & Pick

The countdown to the start of the new NHL season is nearly over, as the competitive action across North America gets underway at Amerant Bank Arena on Tuesday, October 7, as the Florida Panthers host the Chicago Blackhawks. All teams will have their sights set on Stanley Cup glory in 2026, with the Panthers bidding to retain the honor. You can find the Stanley Cup 2026 outright winner odds and our pick here.

NHL 2025-26 Overview

Stanley Cup 2026 Outright Winner Odds

When Is The NHL Regular Season

The NHL regular season will get underway on October 7, 2025, and will run to April 16, 2025. Unlike in previous seasons, there will be no All-Star Game in 2026, with the matchup replaced by an Olympic kick off event.

An international clash is set for November 14 and 16, as the Nashville Predators and Pittsburgh Penguins collide in Stockholm, Sweden. Meanwhile, the Winter Classic will be staged in Miami on January 2, as the Panthers and Rangers lock horns. The Stadium Series in 2026 will see the Lightning and Bruins clash at Raymond James Stadium on February 1, 2026.

Leading Stanley Cup 2026 Contenders

Unsurprisingly, the reigning champions come into the 2025-26 season as the outright favorites. The Florida Panthers have reached the Stanley Cup finals in each of the last three seasons, winning each of the last two. The consistent nature of Bill Zito’s side will make them a prominent selection once again.

Carolina Hurricanes will also rank among the leading contenders in the Eastern Conference after reaching the finals last year before falling to the Panthers. The Hurricanes looks to be building a team capable of going deep in the post-season.

In the Western Conference, the Vegas Golden Knights should hold leading claims. The Pacific Division champions went 50-22-10 last season, but were ultimately eliminated in the second round of the playoffs. Transferring their regular season form to the post-season will once again be their biggest challenge.

The Colorado Avalanche could also be a team worth considering in the Western Conference. They went 49-29-4 under Jared Bednar last term, before losing in first round of the playoffs. More will be expected of the team after an excellent pre-season, winning four of their five games.

Stanley Cup 2026 Outright Winner Pick

The excitement of a new NHL season brings with it many chances. However, the Dallas Stars could be a team worth taking a chance on. The Stars excelled last term, before dropping out of the playoffs in the second round. Glen Gulutzan has since been appointed head coach, and major changes in key areas could see them become even more competitive in the playoffs.