Canada and U.S. Lead Olympic Hockey Gold Medal Odds
As the 2026 Winter Olympics proceed, the return of NHL players to the Olympic men's hockey tournament has reignited enthusiasm among fans and bettors alike. With their inclusion, Canada and the United States have quickly ascended to the top of the gold medal betting odds, creating a buzz within the sports betting community. Let's delve into the impact of this development on Olympic hockey betting and examine the odds for the leading contenders.
Top Contenders and Betting Odds
Canada, with odds set at +115, emerges as the favorite to clinch the gold medal, closely followed by the United States at +175, according to DraftKings. Sweden and Finland are also in the mix, boasting odds of +650 and +1000 respectively, making them viable contenders. Czechia and Switzerland, both pegged at +2500, complete the list of teams with a reasonable shot at victory.
Reports from American sportsbooks, including BetMGM and DraftKings, indicate a significant majority of bets—over 95%—favoring Canada and the U.S. Interestingly, bets on the American team slightly outnumber those on the Canadians, reflecting the patriotic leanings of bettors.
Karry Shreeve, head of hockey at Caesars, noted an early trend of "sharper money" expanding Canada's lead over the U.S. in the odds. This observation underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of sports betting as major events unfold.
The NHL Effect on Olympic Hockey Betting
The inclusion of NHL players in the Olympics for the first time since 2014 has undoubtedly elevated the profile of Olympic hockey betting. The excitement surrounding their participation has revived interest in the sport, reminiscent of the surge in betting activity seen during last year's 4 Nations Face-Off. This NHL-run tournament, culminating in a highly anticipated final between the U.S. and Canada, set records in hockey betting, demonstrating the potent combination of elite competition and national pride.
Bookmakers are bracing for a substantial betting handle on the Olympic men's hockey tournament, with estimates suggesting that hockey could account for 60% to 80% of all Winter Olympics betting this year. The potential for "Cinderella runs" by underdog teams or the rekindling of classic rivalries further fuels the betting fervor.
As the tournament progresses, the Canadians and Americans are poised to dominate the early rounds, with Canada listed as -500 money-line favorites over Czechia and the U.S. facing Latvia as -2400 favorites. These matchups highlight the strength and depth of the leading teams and provide intriguing betting opportunities.
Predictions and Where to Bet
Given the current odds and team compositions, Canada and the U.S. are well-positioned to make deep runs in the tournament. However, the unpredictable nature of international hockey, combined with the high stakes of Olympic competition, means that upsets and dramatic finishes could be on the horizon.
For those looking to engage in Olympic hockey betting, exploring a range of bets, including outright winners, match results, and prop bets, can offer a comprehensive betting experience. With the tournament already underway, now is the perfect time to assess the odds and place your bets.
Bettors can find a wide selection of betting options at top sportsbooks. For the latest odds and betting opportunities, consider visiting leading platforms like DraftKings and BetMGM, which offer comprehensive coverage of Olympic hockey and other sports.
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As the Olympic men's hockey tournament continues, the excitement is only set to increase. Whether you're backing the favorites or rooting for an underdog, the return of NHL players has made this Olympic hockey season one to remember—and to bet on.
