Stanley Cup Finals Set: Lightning And Blackhawks Close In Odds

Both the Chicago Blackhawks and the Tampa Bay Lightning had to battle through a full seven-game series before they earned their spots in the Stanley Cup Finals. The Lightning will have home ice in Game 1. Despite that, the books still want to lean toward the Blackhawks.

Even without the hometown advantage, Chicago opened as favorites in Game 1 against Tampa Bay. The odds have since shifted with the Lightning being slight favorites at most website. Bovada has Chicago as EVEN and the Lightning with a -120 moneyline.

The Blackhawks sat atop future odds nearly all season long. However, the Lightning have been the most profitable team in the NHL in terms of betting during the regular season when playing at home.

Both these teams have a similar play style as well. They are both among the best puck-possession teams in the NHL. Chicago finished second in corsi-for percentage, while Tampa Bay finished fourth. Both teams also have solid puck-moving players on defense that help kick start their offenses.

The total is set at five goals. The total has gone OVER in four of Chicago’s last five games overall and hit the OVER in six of their last nine games on the road. The Lightning also trends toward the OVER. Four of their last six game made OVER bettors money and they have hit the OVER for five straight games at home.

The Stanley Cup Finals begin on Wednesday 9:05 p.m. ET. You can watch it on NBC.