The first round of the NHL playoffs has had a few surprises starting the way the New York Rangers have taken control of their series over the Capitals with a 3-1 series lead. The Rangers have been outshot by Washington 149-99 but the Caps still find themselves in a must win elimination game on Friday night. They'll have to also win in New York to try and force a game 7.
Washington was 9/1 odds to win the Cup before the playoffs began. Bettors can now get 30/1 at Bodog Sportsbook but they'll need a strong comeback. The Rangers came in to the playoffs at a 35/1 long shot price and are now 16/1 to win the 2009 Stanley Cup.
Bodog is back and so are the Boston Bruins who just completed their a four game sweep over the Montreal Canadians. Boston is now 7/2 to win the Cup just slightly behind the favored Detroit Red Wings.
Detroit came in slightly favored and are now 5/2 odds to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions. Detroit goes for the four game sweep tonight in Columbus.
Vancouver came in to the playoffs with 14/1 odds and swept through St. Louis and are now 9/2 and a serious contender to win this year.
San Jose had the best regular season and the number one seed but they have struggled against the eight seed Anaheim Ducks. The Sharks were 7/2 and are now 9/1 to win the championship.
Handicapping experts like the Penguins to get the betting series win as a 2/1 favorite over Philadelphia with a 3-1 lead heading in to Thursday night. Pittsburgh is 9/2 at Bodog.
Carolina is giving New Jersey all they can handle in their playoff match. The series is tied at two with a pivotal game five tonight in Jersey. The Devils are now 10/1 with the Hurricanes available at 20/1.
