Even though the season just ended, early odds for the 2018 Stanley Cup are out. The Columbus Blue Jackets stack up against the competition decently according to Las Vegas oddsmakers.
Bovada has the Columbus Blue Jackets at 20/1 odds to win the 2018 Stanley Cup. That puts their odds as the 14th best in the now 31 team National Hockey League.
The back-to-back champion, and eliminators of the Blue Jackets, Pittsburgh Penguins deservedly have the best odds. They’re currently sitting at 9/1.
The Penguins are followed by the Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers, Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals who all have 12/1 odds.
Opening odds on 2018 #StanleyCup. Dat Predators 14-to-1 line. (Bovada) pic.twitter.com/JqXbI9VUHB
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) June 12, 2017
It seems as if the Blue Jackets hype train hasn’t really left Columbus.
Despite making what appeared a big step in the right direction, Las Vegas isn’t buying it. Obviously the regular season is different than the playoffs, but having the fourth most regular season points doesn’t seem to hold much weight.
But wait, the odds aren’t set in stone
Let’s keep in mind that the odds will change after the offseason because of trades, free agency, etc., but it’s still significant to see the outsiders perspective of the Columbus Blue Jackets.
There is some thought going around this offseason that Columbus is looking to pick up a top player via trade. This would likely increase their odds, depending of course on who they would give up.
The 2017-18 Columbus Blue Jackets season will be arguably the most hyped in their history. Not having the best, or near the top, odds aren’t going to derail those expectations.
We all know what it’s like to be disappointed because of preseason build-up, but with the current team, coaches and front office, it feels different. The Vegas oddsmakers might not see it that way, but only the Blue Jackets can control how they are perceived moving forward.
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