The NHL Metropolitan Division was incredibly competitive over the 2022-23 season, and should be the same way in the future. Here, we look at the latest NHL Metro Division odds and break down which contenders and longshot plays could be worth backing as the season wears on.
Metro Division Betting Odds
Metropolitan Division Favorites
The favorites to win the Metro early this season are the Carolina Hurricanes, who may not be synonymous with metropolitan areas, but are synonymous with quality hockey. The Canes won this division by the slightest of margins over the New Jersey Devils a season ago, and they will likely contend for the title again here. But the Devils and New York Rangers are also on the short list of favorites in this division, and should give Carolina a run for their money.
Also in the mix in this division at slightly longer odds than the three teams mentioned above are the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins. Pittsburgh has the veteran talent that could take them to the top of this division, while the Isles were a powerhouse on home ice last year. It may be unlikely for either of these teams to grab the top spot in the Metro, but you just never know in hockey.
Metropolitan Division Longshots
There is one interesting team at longer odds to win this division. The Washington Capitals were a very good offensively club last year, though their defending let them down. If they can figure things out on that end of the ice, they could give themselves a chance to win this division. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers and Columbus Blue Jackets are expected to be among the worst teams in the NHL yet again this season.