The St. Louis Blues are currently riding a remarkable nine-game winning streak as of April 1, 2025, making them one of the hottest teams in the NHL. This impressive run has propelled them into a favorable position for the playoffs, effectively ending the conversation around the race for the final wild card spot as they have distanced themselves from their competitors.
Much of this momentum can be traced back to Team Canada's victory at the Four Nations Face-Off in February, where Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington played a pivotal role. Binnington’s performance during the tournament has sparked a renewed sense of confidence within the Blues, reminiscent of their stunning turnaround during the 2018-19 season.
Back then, the Blues struggled to find their footing, sitting at a league-worst 15-18-4 record after 37 games. However, they turned their season around with an incredible 11-game winning streak, which was ignited by Binnington’s arrival on the scene. This surge not only propelled them into the playoffs but ultimately led to their first Stanley Cup championship after defeating the Winnipeg Jets in the first round.
Fast forward to the present, and the Blues are once again set to face the Jets in the first round of the playoffs. The Jets enter this matchup as heavy favorites, having finished with the most points in the Western Conference during the regular season. Nonetheless, the Blues have a history of defying the odds, and fans are hopeful that they can replicate their past success.
As the playoffs approach, the Blues are being offered at +3500 odds to win the Western Conference and +6500 odds to secure their second Stanley Cup. These odds present an enticing opportunity for bettors, as a modest $10 wager could yield substantial returns if the Blues continue their winning ways.
Since returning from the Four Nations Face-Off, Binnington has been in stellar form, posting a 10-2-0 record, a 2.09 goals against average, and a .917 save percentage—ranking him among the top seven goalies in the league during this period. His playoff experience is invaluable, as he boasts a career playoff goals against average of 2.73 and a .910 save percentage. Binnington’s confidence is palpable, and he seems poised to keep the Blues competitive against the Jets and beyond.
The Blues also feature a young and dynamic roster, with two of their top three point producers under the age of 27. Robert Thomas leads the team with 49 assists, showcasing his playmaking ability, while Jordan Kyrou has emerged as a scoring threat with 31 goals this season. Both players are eager to prove themselves on the playoff stage, and their contributions could be crucial in the Blues' quest for another championship.
Adding to the excitement, the Blues are set to welcome forward Jimmy Snuggerud into their lineup on April 2, 2025, when they face the Detroit Red Wings. Snuggerud, who captained the Golden Gophers in college hockey, recorded an impressive 24 goals and 27 assists for 51 points in just 40 games last season. St. Louis General Manager Doug Armstrong expressed optimism about Snuggerud’s potential impact, stating, "I do think he can score some goals and we're gonna find out here over the next five or six games on how he fits into our group." His addition could provide a significant boost to an already potent offense.
As the playoffs loom, the excitement surrounding the Blues is palpable. Their recent success, combined with the return of key players and the infusion of young talent, sets the stage for what could be an exhilarating postseason. The question on everyone’s mind is whether the Blues can once again rise to the occasion and make a deep playoff run.
Meanwhile, the NHL landscape is buzzing with anticipation as teams jockey for playoff positioning. The Dallas Stars and Florida Panthers are currently viewed as favorites in the Stanley Cup odds, with the Stars boasting a remarkable 29-8-3 record since December 29, 2024. However, their underlying metrics raise questions about their sustainability as true contenders.
The Panthers, on the other hand, have faced challenges with the recent suspension of their top defenseman, Aaron Ekblad, but are expected to regain their form as they approach the playoffs. Their odds sit at +650, offering a compelling narrative for those looking to place futures bets.
Understanding the right timing for placing bets on the Stanley Cup is crucial for bettors. Early-season odds often favor popular teams, leading to inflated lines, while waiting too long risks missing out on the best prices. The midseason period tends to offer the most opportunity, as sportsbooks adjust lines based on team performance and injuries.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, teams that make key acquisitions can see their odds shift dramatically. Bettors must stay alert to these changes to capitalize on mispriced opportunities. With the playoffs just around the corner, the stakes are higher than ever, and the potential for value is ripe for the picking.
Ultimately, the Blues’ current trajectory and the surrounding NHL playoff picture create a thrilling environment for fans and bettors alike. As the postseason unfolds, all eyes will be on St. Louis to see if they can once again defy the odds and capture the Stanley Cup.
