As the 2024-25 NHL season progresses, Canadian teams experience varying levels of success, creating a dynamic and interesting narrative within the league.
The Winnipeg Jets have emerged as a formidable force, confounding expectations and setting new standards of excellence. Meanwhile, traditional hockey powerhouses like Toronto and Montreal find themselves at opposite ends of the series, with the Maple Leafs maintaining their perennial rivalry and the Canadiens facing an uphill battle in their rebuilding efforts.
The resurgence of teams like the Vancouver Canucks adds an element of unpredictability to the mix while the defending Western Conference champion and NHL favorites Edmonton Oilers navigate the challenges of living up to high preseason expectations.
Winnipeg Jets: Soaring to New Heights
The Winnipeg Jets took the NHL by storm in the 2024-25 season, setting a new league record with a 14-1 start through their first 15 games. Despite a recent dip to 15-3-0, the Jets sit atop the Western Conference with 30 points. Their impressive performance was fueled by a strong offense, averaging more than four goals per game, and a solid defense, allowing just 2.39 goals per game, both league-best stats.
Under new head coach Scott Arniel, the Jets have built on last season's success and are on pace to match or surpass their record 52-game winning streak. Key players such as Vezina Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck, and forwards Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Nikolaj Ehlers contributed to the team's success.
The Jets' power play has been extremely dangerous, shooting an impressive 36.5%, which is the highest in the NHL. Winnipeg is 8-1 at home, with an equally impressive road record, boasting 7-2-0 away from home.
Despite their strong start, oddsmakers are hesitant to invest in the Jets. The current Stanley Cup odds have Winnipeg at +1350, which puts them ninth on the odds board. This difference between performance and odds may present an exciting opportunity for a number of bettors.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Strong in Second
The Toronto Maple Leafs maintained a strong position among Canadian teams, sitting in second place in the Atlantic Division with a record of 11-6-2 and 24 points. Led by a core of talented forwards, including Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Mitch Marner, the Leafs have shown consistency in home and away games, with an 8-3-0 record at home and a respectable 3-3-2 record. In Toronto.
Toronto's offensive prowess is reflected in its 3.71 goals per game, which ranks fifth in the league. However, its defensive game has room for improvement, as it allows 3.22 goals against per game.
Oddsmakers continue to view the Maple Leafs as strong contenders, with Stanley Cup odds of +1150, which puts them in sixth place overall. This shows the strength of the team and the belief that they can overcome their recent play-off struggles.
Vancouver Canucks: Contenders again
The Vancouver Canucks have emerged as contenders again this season, ranking third among Canadian teams with a 9-5-3 record and 21 points. Their balanced attack and improved defensive play contributed to a good goal difference, placing them well in the competitive Pacific Division.
Led by the duo of Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes, the Canucks showed significant improvement from last season. Their power efficiency has been successful, operating at a 22.0% efficiency, which ranks tenth in the league.
The Canucks' odds have improved significantly since the start of the season, now sitting at +1800 to win the Stanley Cup. This represents a significant shift in perception and shows their strong start.
Calgary Flames: Hot Start
The Calgary Flames showed promise with a 9-6-3 record and 21 points, fourth best among Canadian teams. Their ability to defend points in close games was key, as three overtime losses contributed to their point total.
New additions like Nazem Kadri have strengthened the Flames lineup, providing depth and leadership. However, despite holding opponents to just 2.83 goals per game, the team's offensive output was mediocre, averaging 2.72 goals.
Oddsmakers consider the Flames a long shot, with a Stanley Cup prediction of +12000. Although they currently hold a wildcard spot, largely due to their hot start, there are doubts about their ability to compete.
Edmonton Oilers: Inconsistency
The defending conference champion Edmonton Oilers faced challenges early on, posting a 9-8-2 record for 20 points. Despite their talented roster, led by stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers have struggled to find consistency, especially at home where they have managed a 4-5-1 record.
The Oilers' power play has been a disaster, converting at just 16.3%, eighth worst in the league. And their defensive play has been a concern, allowing 3.16 goals against per game.
Despite their slow start, oddsmakers still view the Oilers as a contender, with Stanley Cup odds of +800, the best among Canadian teams. This shows belief in their star power and transformative power.
Ottawa Senators: Building the Future
The Ottawa Senators continue to rebuild, owning an 8-8-1 record for 17 points, which is in the middle of the pack in the Atlantic Division. While they have shown flashes of potential, especially at home with a 5-2-1 record, consistency remains a challenge for this young team.
The Senators' youth organization, led by players like Tim Stützle and Brady Tkachuk, offers hope for the future. However, their current performance puts them near the bottom of the league in terms of goals scored against.
Oddsmakers consider the Senators longshots, with Stanley Cup odds of +4000. This shows their status as a team still in the development stage.
Montreal Canadiens: Facing an Uphill Battle
The Montreal Canadiens are at the bottom of the Canadian team with a 7-10-2 record and just 16 points, which puts them in last place in the Atlantic Division. The Canadiens' rebuild continues, with young players like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki leading the way. However, their offensive output was average, scoring 2.84 goals per game, but their defense was brutal. Montreal has allowed 71 goals in 19 games this season, tied for the most in the league.
Oddsmakers see the Canadiens as extreme long shots, with Stanley Cup odds at +30000.
The Last Word
As the 2024-25 NHL season gets underway, the landscape of Canadian teams paints a different picture. From the historic start of the Winnipeg Jets to the struggles of teams like Montreal, the coming months promise excitement and intrigue for hockey fans. As the odds are constantly changing, the potential for surprises and breakout performances remains high in the ever-competitive world of the NHL.
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