Avalanche Favored, but Sabres Storyline Tempts Bettors

Longshot Buffalo team draws interest despite top contenders

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:31pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game broken down into overlapping planes of blue, red, and white, conveying the dynamic energy and unpredictability of the sport.The Sabres' unlikely playoff run has captivated hockey fans and bettors seeking an underdog story.Buffalo Today

The Colorado Avalanche, Carolina Hurricanes, and Tampa Bay Lightning are the top favorites to win the Stanley Cup, but the betting public is hoping the underdog Buffalo Sabres can pull off an unlikely championship run.

Why it matters

The Avalanche, Hurricanes, and Lightning have been dominant teams in recent years, but an unexpected Sabres title would provide a Cinderella story that could captivate fans and bettors alike.

The details

Despite the Avalanche, Hurricanes, and Lightning being widely considered the top contenders, the Sabres have generated significant interest from bettors looking for a longshot to root for in the playoffs. Buffalo has not won a Stanley Cup since entering the NHL in 1970, adding to the potential storybook nature of a championship run.

  • The 2026 NHL playoffs are set to begin in mid-April.

The players

Colorado Avalanche

A professional ice hockey team based in Denver, Colorado and a top contender to win the 2026 Stanley Cup.

Carolina Hurricanes

A professional ice hockey team based in Raleigh, North Carolina and another top contender to win the 2026 Stanley Cup.

Tampa Bay Lightning

A professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida and the third top contender to win the 2026 Stanley Cup.

Buffalo Sabres

A professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York that is considered a longshot to win the 2026 Stanley Cup but has generated significant betting interest.

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What’s next

The 2026 NHL playoffs will begin in mid-April, with the Stanley Cup Finals expected to conclude by early June.

The takeaway

While the Avalanche, Hurricanes, and Lightning are the favorites, the Sabres' underdog status has made them an intriguing betting option for fans looking for a Cinderella story in the 2026 NHL playoffs.