Series BetsThe first question is going to be around who actually wins the Stanley Cup.The answer is not obvious or easy by any means.
Both of these teams are capable of hoisting the cup, but I think the Hurricanes are the team that will do it.Carolina finally got over the hump and has made it to the Finals.
It really wasn't even that much of a struggle.Sure, they lost the first game against the Canadiens, but they then won the next four.
In the playoffs, the Hurricanes are 12-1.The Carolina Hurricanes are one win away from their first Stanley Cup final appearance since 2006.(David Kirouac-Imagn Images)Does that mean the Vegas Golden Knights can't take them down? Of course they can.
Vegas just ousted the team that was most likely to make a major run, the Colorado Avalanche.It wasn't even that competitive of a series.
I'm not sure I think there is a ton of value in the Golden Knights at +130, though.I would prefer to see them lose Game 1 then maybe invest in them.DESPITE POTENTIAL RATINGS NIGHTMARE FOR NHL, VEGAS-CAROLINA STANLEY CUP FINAL STILL HAS PLENTY OF INTRIGUEThe over 5.5 games is a heavy favorite at -185, but the Hurricanes haven't played more than five games in a series yet.
I don't think I'd lock this in at this number.Instead, if you think it will be a long, close series, which it should be, the Golden Knights are -150 on the +1.5 spread.
That would require the series to go seven games, or Vegas to win.I think that's a better value for you.Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone celebrates after winning Game 4 of the Western Conference finals Stanley Cup playoff series against the Colorado Avalanche in Las Vegas on May 26, 2026.
(John Locher/AP)Conn Smythe TrophyIt is hard to see anyone being a bigger contributor to the success of the Hurricanes than Frederik Andersen, their goalie.He is at +220 to win the award.
For those unfamiliar, this is just the name of the award for the Most Valuable Player.It doesn't always go to a goalie, though.
Sinc...