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What Bettors Should Know About the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs

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 NHL “Return-To-Play” plan is now in place. So today on Gambling 101 we are breaking down what bettors need to know about the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs.

Toronto is the Eastern Conference Hub City. Based on their win percentage, when the regular season was canceled, Boston, Tampa Bay, Washinton, and Philadelphia are guaranteed a quarterfinal playoff berth. Those four teams will play a three-game round robin series without the pressure of being eliminated.

Ok, let's talk moneylines. FanDuel odds have Pittsburgh as a (-205) e favorite to advance during the East qualifying series. The NY Islanders vs. Florida Panthers series has the most even first-round moneyline odds.

Like Toronto in the East, Edmonton has the luxury of playing on home ice during the playoffs. Edmonton is the Western Conference Hub City. Defending Cup champion St. Louis, plus Colorado, Vegas and Dallas are the top four teams in the West qualifying round.

Edmonton is the top favorite in the qualifying series as the Oilers are (-164) vs Chicago who is (+134) as the underdogs. Nashville, Vancouver and Calgary are listed as slight favorites against Arizona, Minnesota and Winnipeg.

Stanley Cup futures prices are posted with maximum value prior to the playoffs. Available until the first game begins on August 1, DraftKings is offering NHL championship odds on all 24 playoff teams. after that, odds to win the Stanley Cup will be adjusted as each round plays out. 

Representing the East, Boston and Tampa Bay enter the tournament as co-favorites with a +650 moneyline. Colorado and Vegas are tied as top favorites in the Western Conference with a +800 moneyline.

There's a lot to consider when betting on the Stanley Cup so for more insight and help, make sure tune into another Gamlbing 101 here on SI.com.