2025 NHL Futures: Expert Picks and Betting Odds

As the 2024-25 NHL regular season enters its final stretch and the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach, teams have been actively reshaping their rosters. Notable players, including Mikko Rantanen, Brad Marchand, and Brock Nelson, were among those changing teams before the trade deadline. These recent moves have significantly impacted the NHL betting odds, with shifts observed at various sportsbooks like BetMGM.

SportsLine’s expert handicapper, Jimmie Kaylor, has analyzed the latest NHL futures betting trends from BetMGM. He has identified his top selections for the Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, James Norris Memorial Trophy, and Calder Memorial Trophy.

In a recent prediction, Kaylor correctly picked Nathan MacKinnon as the first goal scorer and anticipated a low-scoring game in the 4 Nations Face-Off Final. MacKinnon indeed scored first, and the game concluded under 5.5 goals, rewarding those who followed Kaylor’s insights.

Kaylor has now thoroughly examined the updated NHL odds from BetMGM and has finalized his premier futures bets for both the Stanley Cup and key NHL player awards.

2025 Stanley Cup Odds (via BetMGM)

While the Avalanche are currently seeing the highest volume of bets at BetMGM, the Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, and Detroit Red Wings represent the sportsbook’s largest potential payouts. The Florida Panthers, who began the season as favorites, remain the frontrunners for the Stanley Cup after acquiring veteran Brad Marchand.

The Oilers, featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are a team to watch, and the Stars have strengthened their lineup with Mikko Rantanen. However, the Colorado Avalanche are considered to have made the most impactful improvements at the trade deadline.

Colorado’s additions include Martin Necas and Jack Drury from Carolina, alongside Brock Nelson, Charlie Coyle, Jimmy Vesey, Ryan Lindgren, and Erik Johnson. Crucially, the Avalanche addressed their goaltending earlier in the season by acquiring Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood. With enhanced depth, physicality, and the presence of stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the Avalanche are a strong contender.

Best Bet: Colorado Avalanche +850

Hart Memorial Trophy Odds (via BetMGM)

Leon Draisaitl has overtaken his teammate Connor McDavid in the Hart Trophy race and is now the clear favorite. While Connor Hellebuyck is drawing significant betting interest and poses a large liability for BetMGM, Auston Matthews, despite being out of contention, still accounts for a substantial portion of bets placed.

Draisaitl is the NHL’s leading goal scorer and second only to MacKinnon in total points. The Hart Trophy appears to be Draisaitl’s to win. Hellebuyck is almost certain to secure the Vezina Trophy. MacKinnon, a dark horse contender, leads the league in points, and the Avalanche are arguably the league’s top team. There is potential value in MacKinnon’s +475 odds.

While Draisaitl is expected to win, Nathan MacKinnon offers the most betting value.

Best Bet: Nathan MacKinnon (+475)

James Norris Trophy Odds (via BetMGM)

Cale Makar is heavily favored to win the 2025 James Norris Trophy, marking his second time as the NHL’s best defenseman. Betting on Makar at -300 offers limited value unless placing a substantial wager. Zach Werenski at +190 presents a more valuable betting opportunity.

Best Value Bet: Zach Werenski (+190)

Calder Memorial Trophy Odds (via BetMGM)

Macklin Celebrini entered the draft with significant hype, comparable to Connor Bedard, and the 18-year-old rookie has lived up to expectations. With 48 points (20 goals, 28 assists), Celebrini has seamlessly become the San Jose Sharks’ first-line center. Similar to Makar in the Norris race, betting on Celebrini at -225 offers minimal value. He currently faces no serious contenders for the Calder Trophy.

Best Bet: Macklin Celebrini (-225)