The 2024/25 NHL Stanley Cup Final kicks off on June 9 and the TAB NZ have all the top Stanley Cup betting odds and NHL tips this season!

Looking for this season’s best NHL Stanley Cup betting odds, ice hockey previews and game insights? The TAB NZ have you covered! 

The quest for hockey’s ultimate prize, the Stanley Cup, is heating up as the NHL playoffs intensify, and our comprehensive Stanley betting guide is your essential resource for navigating all the thrilling action on the ice.

From expert analysis of team form and head-to-head matchups to detailed breakdowns of betting markets and odds provided by TAB NZ, we’ll equip you with the insights you need to make informed wagers throughout the playoffs.

Whether you’re a seasoned hockey punter or new to betting on the NHL, delve into our in-depth previews, injury reports, and statistical trends to gain an edge and enhance your Stanley Cup betting experience.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of every game and make strategic plays as the journey to lift the Stanley Cup unfolds.

The NHL Playoffs are already in full swing, with the finals only just a few short weeks away.

If you’re new here, the Stanley Cup isn’t just another trophy, it’s widely regarded as the toughest championship to win in any professional sport. But why? With a rich history stretching back over a century, ice-cold rivalries, and relentless, high-stakes battles that often lead into nail-biting overtime finishes, the Cup represents the ultimate test of skill, endurance and heart.

The NHL’s championship series offers one of the most thrilling spectacles for fans and punters alike. As the final stretch of the Playoffs unfolds, TAB NZ brings Kiwi bettors a front-row seat with current Stanley Cup odds and data-driven insights to help you make informed bet slips.

Discover everything you need in one place; from how the Playoffs work, top contenders, Stanley Cup betting markets, and much more. Whether you’re backing a proven powerhouse or eyeing an underdog run, you’ll find plenty of value in TAB NZ’s Stanley Cup coverage.

Overview of the NHL Stanley Cup

History of the NHL Stanley Cup

The Stanley Cup dates back to 1893, making it the oldest professional sports trophy in North America. Considered a revered symbol of hockey’s rich heritage, the Cup is a testament to over 130 years of sporting excellence. It was originally awarded to Canada’s best amateur team before becoming the NHL’s championship prize in 1926. 

Since then, it has built a legacy like no other—from Wayne Gretzky’s Oilers dynasty that dominated the 80s, to the fierce determination of the Chicago Blackhawks, who captured three titles in six years.

The Playoffs are often considered a separate beast from the regular season, marked by tighter games, elevated physicality, and legendary performances. Teams battle through four best-of-seven rounds, culminating in the Stanley Cup Final.

Format of the Tournament

The NHL Playoffs are a relentless battle that demands the very best from 16 elite teams: the top three from each division (Atlantic, Metropolitan, Central and Pacific) and two wild cards per conference (Eastern and Western). 

Seeding impacts first-round matchups. The division winner with the best record squares off against the wild card team with the lower points total, while the other division winner takes on the wild card with the higher points total. Meanwhile, the second and third place teams from each division clash in fierce divisional battles—rivalries reignited, every game a war. Each round is a best-of-seven series, and teams need four series wins to get closer to hoisting the Cup.

Regular-season performance not only affects playoff qualification, but also home-ice advantage, which becomes critical in tightly contested series. The playoffs typically run from mid-April through mid-June, featuring tactical chess matches, where coaching adjustments and player matchups evolve constantly, causing fluctuations in Stanley Cup odds.

Teams often tailor their lines and defensive pairings to exploit specific weaknesses, while goaltending rotations and rest management also play key roles. The gruelling nature of four best-of-seven rounds tests not just skill, but depth, physicality, and mental resilience—making the Stanley Cup one of the toughest championships to win in global sport.

NHL Stanley Cup 2025 Key Details

Event Dates

The NHL regular season begins in early October and runs through to mid-April, with each of the 32 teams playing a total of 82 games. This long grind sets the stage for the playoffs, which kick off in mid-April and run through to June. As of right now the Playoffs are well underway and the intensity is sky-high as the Conference Finals begin.

While most games are played in North American prime time, Kiwi punters can catch early coverage or replays the following day—ideal for lunchtime form checks and pre-bed multis, even if it means explaining to your boss why you’re glued to hockey stats over morning coffee.

Top Participating Teams

This season’s Stanley Cup chase kicked off with 16 fierce contenders battling for glory. From powerhouse regular-season performers to gritty playoff specialists, the competition has been nothing short of relentless. Teams like the Winnipeg Jets, Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vegas Golden Knights made strong runs, but as we hit the Conference Finals, the spotlight shines on four elite teams ready to go all the way:

• Edmonton Oilers: Powered by the game’s most lethal duo—Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl—the Oilers are a serious Cup threat despite inconsistencies. They’ve led the playoffs in goals per game for the past two seasons and thrive in high-tempo matchups, making them a strong option in over markets and goal scorer props. Goaltending has been a rollercoaster, with Calvin Pickard stepping up admirably to carry the team to a series win before an injury sidelined him, and Stuart Skinner bouncing back from early struggles to deliver back-to-back shutouts in the last two games. This strong netminding duo has been key in keeping the Oilers in the hunt.
• Carolina Hurricanes: Known for their balanced roster and relentless style, the Hurricanes combine disciplined defence with quick, smart offence. Goalie Frederik Andersen has been a rock between the pipes, delivering standout performances that keep the team in every battle. Up front, Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov consistently deliver when it counts,  while rising star Seth Jarvis has burst onto the scene with clutch goals and relentless energy. The fierce mix of experience, emerging talent and their ability to grind down opponents and thrive under pressure makes them a formidable force in the East.
• Dallas Stars: The Stars have shown impressive resilience and depth throughout the playoffs. The mid-season addition of Mikko Rantanen has been a game-changer, bringing scoring firepower and clutch moments that lifted the team. The team’s depth, including contributions from players like Roope Hintz and Thomas Harley, has been crucial in their playoff success. Their toughness and composure in high-pressure moments have made them a serious contender for the Cup.
• Florida Panthers: Physical and deep. Matthew Tkachuk is once again proving clutch, with Sam Reinhart adding scoring depth and Aaron Ekblad stabilising the blue line. Florida’s forecheck and neutral-zone traps make them the Eastern Conference’s most frustrating side to play against—or bet against.

NHL Stanley Cup 2025 Betting Odds

The current Stanley Cup odds represent a snapshot of each team’s chances based on both regular season results and current playoff form. Updated daily by TAB NZ, these odds reflect team momentum, injuries, series progressions, and betting volume—making them a powerful tool for punters looking to find value throughout the playoffs.

In addition to backing the outright winner, TAB NZ offers a range of other futures and player markets, including:

• Outright Winner: Predict which team will lift the Stanley Cup at the end of the playoffs.
• Conference Winners: Back which team will emerge from the Eastern or Western Conference Finals.
• Top Goal Scorer: Bet on the player you think will score the most goals across the full postseason—a popular option when elite scorers are peaking.
• Conn Smythe Trophy: Wager on who will be named the Playoffs MVP—typically a high-performing forward or goaltender from a finalist 

The Stanley Cup odds can change rapidly based on game outcomes, injuries to star players, or sharp betting activity. Punters should check markets regularly, especially after key matchups, and consider locking in value early on futures like Conn Smythe or top goal scorer props. With live odds, player markets, and series betting options, TAB NZ gives fans every opportunity to back their Stanley Cup predictions with confidence.

As of now, the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs have reached the Conference Finals stage. Here’s a quick update on the matchups:

Conference Finals Matchups

• Eastern Conference Final:

Florida Panthers (defending champions) vs. Carolina Hurricanes

• Western Conference Final:

Dallas Stars vs. Edmonton Oilers

(This is a rematch of the 2024 Western Conference Final)

Recent Highlights

The Dallas Stars advanced to the Western Conference Final after a dramatic 2-1 overtime win against the Winnipeg Jets.

The Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes both had strong performances in the second round to reach the East Final.

How to Bet on the NHL Stanley Cup

Betting on the Stanley Cup with TAB NZ offers plenty of action for both lifelong hockey fans or new supporters jumping in for the Finals. From outright winner odds to live game props, punters can follow every twist of the playoffs with real-time excitement. With new betting opportunities emerging every round, there’s always a fresh angle for fans to explore NHL Stanley Cup odds.

Here’s how to bet on the NHL Stanley Cup:

• Log in or sign-up with TAB NZ.
• Make a secure online deposit using one of the TAB NZ safe deposit methods.
• Check out the Stanley Cup betting previews and our expert betting tips.
• Choose a bet to place. There are many more Stanley Cup betting options available so make sure to check out our full betting markets online.
• Select the team or player you want to bet on to win the NHL Stanley Cup.
• Select the bet now option or add to a multi then wait to see how your bets go!

Popular Betting Markets for the NHL Stanley Cup

Tournament Winner Odds

Tournament Winner Odds are the most popular Stanley Cup futures market, letting punters back the team they believe will lift the Cup. Odds shift round-by-round based on injuries, momentum, and matchups. Backing a favourite early can offer solid returns, while spotting an underdog surge can unlock value. TAB NZ updates these markets throughout the playoffs.

Round Betting

Round betting lets punters back a team to win a specific series—like the Conference Finals—or predict the exact scoreline (e.g., Edmonton 4–2). These markets reward insights into form, injuries, and home-ice dynamics. With odds shifting after each game, TAB NZ’s updated series markets give bettors a chance to react and find untapped value with current Stanley cup odds.

2024/25 Stanley Cup Betting

2024/25 Stanley Cup Preview

Bet on the 2024/25 Stanley Cup now!

Past NHL Stanley Cup Champions

Looking at recent Stanley Cup winners helps identify franchises with a proven playoff pedigree—a valuable angle for punters assessing form.

• 2024 – Florida Panthers: Secured their first-ever Stanley Cup with a 2–1 Game 7 victory over the Edmonton Oilers.
• 2023 – Vegas Golden Knights: Stormed to their inaugural Cup with an unstoppable postseason performance, showcasing deep roster talent and masterful coaching that thrived when the pressure was at its highest. Unfortunately the Vegas odds for the Stanley Cup are at a zero, since losing the series to Edmonton.
• 2022 – Colorado Avalanche: Powered by the dynamic duo of MacKinnon and Makar, their fast-paced transition game overwhelmed opponents and highlighted their championship mettle.
• 2021 – Tampa Bay Lightning: Cemented their place as a modern dynasty, capturing back-to-back titles thanks to Andrei Vasilevskiy’s heroic goaltending and a wealth of playoff experience that made them nearly unstoppable.
• 2020 – Tampa Bay Lightning: Built their first championship since 2004 on rock-solid defence and clutch scoring, laying down the blueprint that would fuel their remarkable repeat the very next year.

Rising Contenders and Prospects

Beyond the main contenders, several teams and emerging stars are poised to shape the NHL’s future:

• San Jose Sharks: After years of rebuilding, they’re finally stacking talent and have a strong goalie tandem developing. Watch for young stars like Macklin Celebrini to lead the charge.
• Dallas Stars:  Beyond Mikko Rantanen’s electric scoring, Dallas boasts solid goaltending from Jake Oettinger and smart coaching that maximises their depth. With young talents like Wyatt Johnston developing fast, they’re set to remain serious contenders.
• St. Louis Blues: Massive turnaround this season. With strong goaltending from Jordan Binnington, breakout play from Jake Neighbours, and a solid young core, they’re trending up fast.
• Montreal Canadiens: Young guns like Juraj Slafkovský and Lane Hutson are gaining confidence. If their goaltending holds steady, they could push for a playoff return.

Breakout Players to Watch

• Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadiens): Dynamic defenseman who led all rookies with 66 points, including 60 assists—a record-tying feat for a rookie blueliner.
• Macklin Celebrini (San Jose Sharks): The 2024 first-overall pick made an immediate impact with 63 points in 70 games, including a rookie-season hat trick.
• Matvei Michkov (Philadelphia Flyers): Skilled winger who notched 63 points (26 goals, 37 assists) over 80 games, showcasing his offensive prowess.
• Ivan Demidov (Montreal Canadiens): After a standout season with SKA St. Petersburg, he was named a finalist for the KHL’s Rookie of the Year Award, highlighting his readiness for the NHL.

Memorable NHL Stanley Cup Moments

The Stanley Cup isn’t just the pinnacle of hockey, it’s the proving ground for legends. It’s where dynasties are born, underdogs rise, and split-second plays become lifelong memories. From last-second goals to historic comebacks, these moments have shaped the game—and tilted the Stanley Cup odds in unforgettable ways.

Iconic Rounds and Finishes

The Stanley Cup Playoffs deliver drama like no other. Over the years, we’ve seen series that flipped scripts, crushed favourites, and changed the course of hockey history:

• 1994 – The Rangers Finally Do It: After 54 years of heartbreak, the Rangers lifted the Cup in a roaring Madison Square Garden. That Game 7 win over Vancouver? Pure goosebumps.
• 2010 – Kane’s OT Ghost Goal: Everyone blinked. Where’s the puck? Patrick Kane knew—it was in the net. A wild finish and the start of a Blackhawks dynasty.
• 2011 – Bruins Break the Curse: After nearly 40 years, the Boston Bruins roared back into glory with a gutsy Game 7 win over the Vancouver Canucks. It was physical, fiery, and unforgettable—a throwback Cup win built on heart, grit, and pure will.
• 2019 – Blues from Worst to First: Dead last in January. Stanley Cup champs in June. The Blues’ run, capped with a Game 7 win in Boston, was nothing short of a Hollywood script.
• 2024 – Panthers Make History: The Panthers dug deep, battled the mighty Oilers, and clawed their way to a 2–1 Game 7 win—lifting the Cup for the very first time. 

Record-Breaking Performances

Individual achievements have also left a lasting impact on the playoffs:

• Connor McDavid: Broke Gretzky’s all-time playoff assist record with 34 in a single postseason. Unstoppable.
• Wayne Gretzky: 47 points in one playoff run. Still the gold standard. Still untouchable.
• Mario Lemieux: Five points in a single period during the Final. That’s not just dominance—that’s legend status.
• Patrick Roy: Three Conn Smythe wins. The king of clutch goaltending. When the lights were brightest, Roy was ice cold.
• Joe Sakic: Holds the record for most playoff overtime goals with 8, highlighting his clutch performance in critical moments.
• Tampa Bay Lightning (2020–21): Back-to-back Cup wins in two completely different seasons. Bubble or not, that team was built different.

These records underscore the intensity and historical significance of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, reinforcing why Stanley Cup betting continues to attract punters worldwide from Montreal to Christchurch.

NHL Stanley Cup 2025 Finals Betting Info & Odds

The quest for the coveted Stanley Cup in the 2025 NHL season has reached its thrilling conclusion, and our comprehensive betting hub at TAB NZ is your ultimate guide to wagering on the Finals.

As the final two teams battle it out for hockey’s ultimate prize, we provide you with up-to-the-minute odds, in-depth team analysis, key player statistics, and expert insights to enhance your betting strategy.

Whether you’re dissecting head-to-head records, scrutinising player prop bets, or considering the series winner, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and amplify your excitement during every pivotal moment of the 2025 Stanley Cup Finals.

Dive into the detailed breakdowns and get ready to make your winning plays with TAB NZ as the tension on the ice reaches its peak!

NHL Stanley Cup 2025 Stats and Insights

Player Performance Stats

Elite performances in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are shaping both outcomes and betting markets. Mikko Rantanen leads all skaters with 19 points (9 goals, 10 assists) through 11 games, including back-to-back hat tricks—a feat achieved by only two others in NHL history.  Connor McDavid continues his postseason dominance with 17 points (3 goals, 14 assists) in 10 games, maintaining his reputation as a top playoff performer.  Leon Draisaitl isn’t far behind, contributing significantly with 15 points, adding depth to Edmonton’s lethal attack.

Between the pipes, Frederik Andersen boasts a league-best 1.36 GAA and a .937 save percentage over 9 games, anchoring the Hurricanes’ defense.  While Jake Oettinger of the Dallas Stars has been a workhorse, logging over 777 minutes with a 2.47 GAA and .919 save percentage. 

Recent Trends at the NHL Stanley Cup

Several trends are emerging in the 2025 playoffs that punters should consider when evaluating the current stanley cup odds:

1. Game 7 Underdogs: Historically, underdogs have won 46% of Game 7s over the past decade, and the 2025 playoffs have already seen lower-seeded teams push top contenders to the brink—suggesting strong value in betting against the favourites when everything’s on the line.
2. Scoring Trends: The offensive pace is up—average goals per game have hit 6.1 this postseason, continuing the climb from 5.9 in recent years. Over markets and player goal props are more attractive than ever.
3. Power Play Efficiency: The first round of the 2025 playoffs saw a league-wide power play success rate of 24.9%, a noticeable increase from 20.6% last year. Teams like Edmonton and Dallas, who convert at high rates, are consistently outperforming.
4. Home Ice Advantage: Just 53% of games this postseason have been won by home teams. While still a factor, home-ice advantage is proving far less decisive—punters should weigh form and matchups over venue.

*This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited, verified and updated by our editorial team.