Which Canadian Team Is Most Likely to Win the Stanley Cup?

The Edmonton Oilers represent the Canadian team most likely to win the Stanley Cup. However, the gap between them and the Toronto Maple Leafs has closed recently. 

At +800, the Edmonton Oilers Stanley Cup odds are tied for the fourth-shortest with the ever-consistent Dallas Stars.

Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs Stanley Cup odds improved from +1600 to +1400 on April 11, underpinning their return to peak form. 

Which Canadian Team Is Most Likely to Win the Stanley Cup?

The Oilers are favoured over the Maple Leafs due to what should be a slightly more manageable first-round opponent. While nothing is set in stone yet, the Maple Leafs playoff picture focuses on a probable first-round matchup against the Florida Panthers. 

While the Panthers have endured an extended slump since mid-March, they are a dangerous opponent who got the better of the Maple Leafs in the second round of the 2022-23 playoffs.

The Oilers, on the other hand, will face one of these three opponents: the Nashville Predators, Los Angeles Kings, or Vegas Golden Knights. The former two are favourable matchups for the Oilers, while the Golden Knights haven’t been at their best for a few months.

The injury Connor McDavid suffered in Calgary appears to be minor, which shouldn’t negatively impact his postseason play. McDavid’s ability to play unencumbered will have the most consequential effect on whether the Maple Leafs or Oilers represent Canada’s best chance of winning the Stanley Cup. 

Currently, that label goes to the McDavid-led Oilers. 

Jets, Canucks Stanley Cup Odds 

The Vancouver Canucks Stanley Cup odds improved to +1400 but quickly dropped back to +1500, where they stood for the previous month. 

Unfortunately, the Canucks have been a mere semblance of their former high-flying selves over the last two months. While much of their malaise can be attributed to Thatcher Demko’s long-term absence, Vancouver’s offence has also struggled. 

On Feb. 21, the Winnipeg Jets Stanley Cup odds stood at +1300, the ninth-shortest at the time. A forlorn six-game losing streak contributed to their odds lengthening to +1600, which knocked them out of the top 10. 

The Jets have rebounded well, winning four straight and challenging the Colorado Avalanche for second place in the Central Division. However, Rick Bowness’ team is probably too reliant on Connor Hellebuyck and their defence-first philosophy. 

They also face the prospect of drawing the Avalanche in the first round. If the Avs secure home-ice advantage, the Jets will have a mountain-size conundrum. 

Colorado is the NHL’s best home team, led by Hart Trophy favourite Nathan MacKinnon and Norris Trophy second-favourite Cale Makar. 

The four Canadian teams remain among the favourites to win the Stanley Cup, but only the Oilers and Maple Leafs should be considered bona fide contenders. 

Best 2024 Stanley Cup Odds

Check out the list of favourites to win the NHL Stanley Cup in 2024. 

At +800, the Oilers are level with the Stars as fourth favourites to win it all. The Carolina Hurricanes lead the way at +650, with the Avalanche close behind at +700.