Winning the ultimate hockey prize requires teams to undergo a formidable challenge. Simply excelling in the regular season isn’t sufficient; an additional 16 victories are needed to lift the Lord Stanley’s Cup in triumph when everything is settled.

Whether there’s a bubble or not, the NHL team that manages to pull it off has accomplished a remarkable achievement. With the introduction of legal sports betting in Illinois, you can now place your bets at every stage. From offseason to playoffs, betting on hockey has become convenient and lawful.

The futures market for the Stanley Cup is bustling with activity. Every match in the final series will witness substantial betting. We’ll provide information on the latest Stanley Cup betting odds, beneficial bonuses, and many other details. Continue reading.

Latest 2021 NHL Stanley Cup odds

Placing your bets on the next Stanley Cup winner doesn’t need to wait for the playoffs. The futures market is operational throughout the year, adjusting odds at each stage. Our live odds feed makes it simple to stay updated on these changes.

How to bet online on the Stanley Cup in Illinois

If you’re in Illinois and looking to bet on the Stanley Cup, consider our suggested sportsbook operators. Get set up swiftly and take advantage of excellent bonus offers. Here’s how the process unfolds.

Follow our exclusive links to set up a betting account. You’ll be directed to a sign-up page first. Once you’ve entered some information like your name and birth date, you’ll select a few boxes and hit the submit button.

Download the app for your device from the sportsbook’s website. Then, log in through your mobile and explore its functionality on the smaller screen. This grants you access to a live sportsbook both online and on your mobile device.

Both locations feature a specific section for NHL betting. For instance, if you’re registered with BetRivers Sportsbook, all sports available for betting will be clearly listed. When you select the NHL tab, you’ll see all the current and upcoming markets.

What bets can you make on the Stanley Cup?

When it comes to Stanley Cup betting, there is a multitude of options to consider. One can wager on the outcomes of individual games that are typically part of an exciting series, make predictions about the eventual winner, or even place real-time bets as the action unfolds on the ice. This is a brief overview of the main betting methods and their workings.

Moneyline

In a moneyline bet, your sole task is to select the winning side. Both teams will have odds displayed, and you’ll simply select the one you predict to emerge victorious. Typically, favorites are assigned negative odds, whereas underdogs are given positive odds. Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario for clarity:

Boston Bruins +120

Washington Capitals  -130

Puck line

The puck line introduces a spread betting aspect to hockey. Unlike other sports where the spread can widely vary, in the NHL it’s usually set at 1.5 goals. The team you select must cover the puck line for your bet to be successful. Here’s another example:

Toronto Maple Leafs +1.5 (-135)

St. Louis Blues -1.5 (+115)

Totals

Oddsmakers establish a predicted number of goals for the game, and you bet on whether the actual total will exceed or fall short of that number. Typically, the totals are set at 5.5 for NHL games, but this may change based on the teams playing. Here’s an example of what a total bet appears like:

Over 5.5 (-110)

Under 5.5 (-110)

Props

Click on the game listing to find Stanley Cup props for a specific game. The prop offerings will include aspects related to the game or team performance. However, many popular ones focus on the individual player’s performance. For example:

• What will be the total of Patrick Kane’s goals and assists – over 1.5 (+120) or under 1.5 (-105)?

Live betting

Once the game begins, you can refer back for live betting options. By clicking on the NHL link at the online sportsbook, you’ll find a specific section for current offerings, which includes the latest game lines and props. An example of a live prop bet would be:

• What will the outcome of this power play be — a goal (-115) or a penalty kill (+110)?

Futures

You can place bets on future outcomes, such as who will win the upcoming Stanley Cup. We will delve into all the details of this popular betting type in the following section. Additionally, you can refer to our live odds feed for the most recent figures.

Stanley Cup betting explained

The futures market for the next Stanley Cup winner operates nearly all year. As soon as the current season concludes, sportsbooks start publishing odds for the following season’s winner. Stanley Cup betting lines will be available for all 31 NHL teams, typically displayed in descending order with the top favorites listed first.

As bets begin to pour in, there will be a shift in the betting line, which will depend on the direction of the action. This shift will persist throughout the season as interest in various teams fluctuates. Our live odds feed offers the most recent figures from multiple books, so make sure to revisit frequently.

Here’s a brief demonstration of its operation. Suppose you focus on the Stanley Cup futures odds and find yourself attracted to one of the top five favorites:

Colorado Avalanche +750

Vegas Golden Knights +850

Tampa Bay Lightning +950

Boston Bruins +1,100

Philadelphia Flyers +1,200

You’ve determined that this is the year for the Golden Knights to shine. To place your bet, you select the corresponding odds. This adds your selection to the bet slip. Next, you input your wager amount, double-check everything, and then click the submit button to finalize your bet.

The concept behind the futures market is to locate the options you desire at the most competitive prices, hence we advise that you shop around. If you make the correct decision, these bets can yield substantial returns. For instance, a successful $100 bet on Vegas at +850 can generate a substantial profit of $850.

Remember this important note: This is a long-term bet. Future bets won’t be resolved until the event is over, which means your money will be tied up in that ticket. So, ensure that you bet within your means and comfort zone.

When the Stanley Cup Final comes around, it will provide you with even more exploration opportunities. Here are the major ones you should watch out for:

• Placing bets on every single game – moneyline, puck line, totals, and props.
• Wagering on the overall series champion.
• Making a futures wager on the winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy.
• Betting live for every game in the series.

Illinois sportsbook rules for NHL betting

Every online sportsbook and betting app in Illinois has its unique house rules for betting on hockey and other sports. There is a significant overlap in this area as many rules are common throughout the industry. Here are some of the key points to be aware of:

• As soon as the game begins, all bets are deemed active. In case of any delay or postponement, the bets may still stay active if the game is scheduled to resume within a reasonable period.
• Bets on listed player props will be considered valid if the player dresses for the game intending to play. However, if a player doesn’t participate or is ruled out, the bet will be deemed null and void.
• Bets on games can be based solely on regular play or may include overtime. The bet’s specifics will be clearly referenced in the listing, so make sure to review it to ensure you are choosing what you desire.
• Should a season be entirely cancelled, any futures bets will be nullified and refunded.
• Futures bets won’t be settled until the outcome is confirmed. For instance, bets on the Stanley Cup winner won’t be paid until the series has ended.

While this information encompasses most of what you need to be aware of, there’s always a chance of an unusual situation cropping up. In such cases, it’s advisable to thoroughly review the house rules of the books you’re playing on, to ensure you’re fully informed.

Recent Stanley Cup betting trends

The origins of the Stanley Cup date back to 1893 when it was first awarded to a team called the Montreal Hockey Club. Since 1927, it has been given to the NHL champion and has continued in this tradition to date.

The NHL has experienced remarkable growth from its early days to now. Originally, it consisted of a little more than six teams, known as the Original Six. Since then, the league has expanded several times, and currently, 31 teams participate each season.

Several outstanding dynasties dominated the 1970s and 1980s, but the 1990s were marked by a variety of teams claiming victory. From 2000 onwards, the Cup has been presented 20 times. The following are some notable trends that have been observed since then:

• The Eastern and Western conferences are tied with 10 wins each.
• Over that period, the Stanley Cup Final has stretched to a full seven games seven times. There have been no instances of sweeps, with every series extending to a minimum of five games.
• The Pittsburgh Penguins are the only team to have won back-to-back, doing so in 2016-17.
• Only once have the same two teams reached consecutive finals: in 2008, the Detroit Red Wings won against the Penguins, and in 2009, Pittsburgh triumphed over Detroit.

As you browse the futures market, it’s likely you’ll notice previous season’s finalists listed as favorites. However, remember that it’s extremely difficult in the current NHL for a team to reach the finals two seasons consecutively.

Which teams are the favorites to win the 2021 Stanley Cup?

The Tampa Bay Lightning, the reigning Stanley Cup champions, triumphed over the Dallas Stars in an exhilarating six-game final following a notable performance in the early playoff rounds. The team continues to be brimming with talent.

It is expected that they are one of the top contenders to win again, but there are others also at the top of the future odds board. Two teams from the West Division appear to be serious contenders for the Cup. Let’s take a look at the top three favorites.

The Colorado Avalanche boasts a remarkable team roster, already demonstrating significant potential, although it seems their journey is just beginning. They had an impressive regular season, securing 92 points and advancing to the second round of the NHL playoffs before being ousted by the Dallas Stars in a seven-game series. Their return to the post-season seems highly probable, with a realistic shot at the Cup. <br><br>The Vegas Golden Knights rank among the most successful expansion franchises in league history. In their debut season (2017-18), they made it to the Stanley Cup Final but were defeated by the Washington Capitals in five games. Despite this, they reached the playoffs in the following two seasons, though the Stars beat them in the Western Conference final last year. Considering their history, it’s apt to view them as one of the favorites to represent the west in the upcoming season.<br><br>As for the Tampa Bay Lightning, they managed to clinch the Cup last year despite four losses in the initial three rounds of the playoffs, triumphing over the Stars in a six-game series. Although back-to-back victories will be a challenge, their formidable lineup, led on offense by Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos and on defense by Conn Smythe winner Victor Hedman, makes a repeat win feasible.

Dark horse contenders for the Stanley Cup

In recent times, only one team has managed to win the Stanley Cup twice, so it’s not guaranteed that the Lightning will repeat their victory. Despite several other top favorites looking promising, the ultimate winner could be a team with less favorable odds. Here are three dark horse teams worth watching:

1. Edmonton Oilers: The Oilers, for many consecutive seasons, have had the privilege of having two of the best players in the game, Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. Despite this, they have yet to achieve significant postseason success. However, it’s not difficult to imagine a situation where their fortunes change rapidly. Edmonton has the potential to regain its previous dominance as early as the forthcoming season.
2. New York Islanders: Last year’s postseason featured the Islanders as one of the standout stories. They made it to the playoffs after a qualifying round win against the Florida Panthers, then dominated the Washington Capitals in the first round with a five-game victory. This was followed by a grueling seven-game triumph over the Philadelphia Flyers. Even though the Islanders didn’t secure a win against the Lightning in the conference final, this experience can be a significant stepping stone for them.
3. Chicago Blackhawks: This isn’t merely a biased choice. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane continue to bring their A-game, supported by a promising array of talent. The team unexpectedly defeated the Oilers in the previous qualifying round, though they lost to Vegas in the second round. While they may not be as dominant as the Blackhawks teams that clinched three cups in six seasons a few years back, this team has the potential to spring a surprise and quickly find their stride.

Stanley Cup winners over the past decade

Over the last decade, only six teams have had the honor of winning the Stanley Cup. Among these, one team has won twice, and two teams have each secured two championship titles within a three-year period. The past ten seasons have also gifted us with several unforgettable final series, with two of them being determined in five games. Let’s take a retrospective glance at the past ten champions and their corresponding runners-up:

Season	Winner	Runner-up	Series Result
2019-20	Tampa Bay Lightning	Dallas Stars	4-2
2018-19	St. Louis Blues	Boston Bruins	4-3
2017-18	Washington Capitals	Vegas Golden Knights	4-1
2016-17	Pittsburgh Penguins	Nashville Predators	4-2
2015-16	Pittsburgh Penguins	San Jose Sharks	4-2
2014-15	Chicago Blackhawks	Tampa Bay Lightning	4-2
2013-14	Los Angeles Kings	New York Rangers	4-1
2012-13	Chicago Blackhawks	Boston Bruins	4-2
2011-12	Los Angeles Kings	New Jersey Devils	4-2
2010-11	Boston Bruins	Vancouver Canucks	4-3

Interestingly, the Western Conference had a 4-1 advantage in the early years of the decade. However, the narrative has flipped in the past five seasons, as the Eastern Conference has achieved a 4-1 record.

Has a Blackhawks player ever won the Conn Smythe Trophy?

Since the 1964-65 NHL season, the Conn Smythe Trophy has been awarded to the player considered most valuable in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Many legendary players have been honored with this award over the years.

The Chicago Blackhawks experienced a long dry spell in the Stanley Cup before recently making a comeback. Their last victory before this was in 1960-61 against the Detroit Red Wings, marking nearly half a century without a championship.

The streak was finally broken by the 2009-10 team when they triumphed over the Philadelphia Flyers, marking the start of a period of exceptional performance for the franchise. Victories continued with the club securing another cup in the 2012-13 season by beating the Boston Bruins, and repeating the feat in 2014-15 when they overcame the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Upon the completion of the three series, a star from the Blackhawks was bestowed with the Conn Smythe award. Let’s take a closer look at each of the trio and their achievements:

• In the 2009-10 season, Jonathan Toews played a major role for Chicago in 22 games, scoring seven goals and providing 22 assists.
• Patrick Kane received the honor in the 2012-13 postseason after scoring nine goals and assisting ten times over 23 games.
• Duncan Keith, the defensive leader in 2014-15, scored three goals and made 18 assists, earning him the MVP honors.

It’s appropriate that the three leading players of this Blackhawks hockey era each won a Conn Smythe during the team’s successful streak. As the franchise leaders often shine in significant matches, consider this when planning to place any future bets on the Conn Smythe award recipient for the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.

Best Illinois sports bars to watch Stanley Cup games

If you’re interested in watching a Stanley Cup game, you wouldn’t want to miss any part of the action. While there are many bars across Illinois to choose from, only a handful are recognized as official Blackhawks bars.

The hours of operation may change due to state COVID-19 mitigation requirements.

Although we can’t guarantee that the boys from the Windy City will reach the final series, we can confidently suggest the following places to enjoy the fastest game on ice:

• The OverTime Sports Bar & Grill is located at 6714 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL. You can reach them by phone at 773-993-0533. Their opening hours are from 4 p.m. to midnight from Monday to Thursday, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays, noon to 2 a.m. on Saturdays, and noon to midnight on Sundays.

OverTime, renowned for its exceptional burgers and wings, also provides ample screens for viewing sports or other events. In addition to its impressive food menu, it offers a vast selection of cocktails and beers, all served in a lively and festive environment.

• Address of O’Malley’s Pub & Eatery: 701 Hill Ave., Aurora, IL. Contact Phone: 630-898-8700. It operates daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

O’Malley’s is well-known for its daily food specials, however, the menu offers a lot more than just that. A vast array of options are available to choose from, not only in food but also in beverages. In addition to this, O’Malley’s hosts theme nights and offers numerous TVs for patrons to watch the games.

• The Blue Line Sports Pub is located at 211 Elm St., Rockford, IL. You can contact them at 779-423-2125. They are open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Mondays to Thursdays, and from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Blue Line, with a name suggestive of a top-notch hockey bar, certainly lives up to expectations. It boasts a wide array of exquisite food options, numerous screens for viewing, and an impressive cocktail menu. It’s also recognized as a favorite haunt for whiskey enthusiasts.

• Address of Bottoms Up Sports Bar & Grill: 1807 S. Washington St., Naperville, IL. You can contact them at 630-364-2070. The operating hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and from 11:30 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Bottoms Up is the go-to neighborhood spot in the Naperville area if you’re keen on watching the game. It provides a lively sports bar ambiance with excellent viewing angles, numerous screens, and a wide array of food and drink options.

Consider these top destinations for unbeatable hockey, quality food, and your favorite drink.

Also, remember that you can lawfully and securely place bets using your mobile device anywhere within the state boundaries. You can also place your bets before you leave, but the app can serve as your assistant as you explore live betting markets while the games are ongoing.