We are officially underway with the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Since the NHL has been able to get back to a normal schedule ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it’s that time of year for 16 teams duke it out to become the top team in the NHL. We will get to find out who the champ will be in June or July, depending on how things move with the pandemic. But for now, let’s dive into this year’s prospects!

The defending champions Tampa Bay Lightning won their second Stanley Cup last season against the Dallas Stars. They return to the playoffs, although not as top favorites, but they are up there. Other teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights are current favorites to take the title this year. What can expect in this year’s playoffs?

We’re going to take a closer look at the latest 2021 Stanley Cup odds, along with betting predictions and expert picks. Be sure to keep yourself up to date with the latest NHL betting odds and lines at our online Bitcoin sportsbook.

Odds to Win the 2021 Stanley Cup

The matchups are set for #StanleyCup Playoffs. It's time for the #NHLBracket Challenge!

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— NHL (@NHL) May 14, 2021

• Colorado Avalanche +450
• Vegas Golden Knights +550
• Carolina Hurricanes +650
• Toronto Maple Leafs +650
• Tampa Bay Lightning +750
• Florida Panthers +1200
• Boston Bruins +1200
• Pittsburgh Penguins +1300
• Washington Capitals +1300
• Minnesota Wild +1600
• Edmonton Oilers +1600
• New York Islanders +1800
• St. Louis Blues +2200
• Montreal Canadiens +2800
• Winnipeg Jets
• Nashville Predators

READ MORE: The Best Moments in Stanley Cup Playoffs History

Who Are the Favorites to Win the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs?

Colorado Avalanche

There’s no doubt they are on the top of the list. They just won the Presidents’ Trophy, making them the best team of the regular season. Even though they had to deal with key players getting injured, they’ve maintained themselves a good percentage of health these past few months. They got to the Western Conference finals last year, only to lose to the Dallas Stars, which they went to lose against Tampa Bay in the finals. This could be their year and they are bringing a snowstorm with them.

Vegas Golden Knights

These guys have quite the story. Starting off as a new franchise in 2017, they made it to their first Stanley Cup Finals that season, but lost to the Washington Capitals. Still, this left a spark for this team for the future. As of now, although they are second in line to take the trophy, their recent history after that season hasn’t been up to par. They need to shake things off before the first round and get it together if they want to make to the finals.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The current champs are the fifth favorite to win it two years in a row. The reason for this is because of their goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy, who owns a .925 save percentage just this season. They also get back Nikita Kucherov, who had missed the regular season due to hip surgery. Another top player to return is the captain Steven Stamkos, who’s coming back from a lower-body injury. The Lightning will be packed this offseason. Not strange if they make it to the finals again.

Who Are Long Shots to Win the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs?

Minnesota Wild

Why should take the Wild into consideration as a long shot? One reason is because of their rookie Kirill Kaprizov, who’s had an explosive season, with 27 goals and 51 points in 55 games. Also, they are taking on the Golden Knights, who are favorites. But their last meetings have been in Minnesota’s favor, as they’ve beat them in five of the last six games. This is one team to keep your eyes on.

Boston Bruins

It’s been a hard season for the Bruins, as they battled through many injuries. But nevertheless, they held on and were able to get a pass to the playoffs. Check out their special teams, because it’s a tough one to beat. With a veteran goalkeeper in Tuukka Rask, Boston could go far in the playoffs.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins are coming in with a great accuracy percentage at 11.5%, with an average of 3.45 goals per game, which they are ranked second on that list. With a defense that’s been improving a lot and a raw power-play unit, the Penguins could go far and get another Stanley Cup. Their record this season is quite great.

2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs Expert Betting Prediction

There has been a shift, no doubt. Colorado and Vegas are going to push hard to make it to the finals. But classic teams like Boston and Pittsburgh are right behind. The first round of games will provide much information for each team. So, try to keep up with the games and you’ll definitely see who the top team is this season.

Feel free to browse sports betting guides. While you are at it, go ahead and check out all the latest NHL betting odds and more in our online BTC sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.