As the NHL enters a quieter period between late July and late August, fans witness a lull in activity around their local arenas. During these few weeks, insiders typically retreat to vacation spots, players share snapshots of weddings and trips on social media, and the expectation of major team movements is diminished. This relative calm brings a pause in the betting odds landscape, offering a moment of reflection before the preseason rush that is soon to follow. This time may serve well for assessing potential futures bets for the 2025-26 season as oddsmakers adjust odds leading up to the start of the season.

DraftKings currently lists the Florida Panthers as the Eastern Conference favorites at +310. Although making predictions about which teams will emerge from the playoffs is notoriously difficult, the Panthers seem to have established themselves as a frontrunner. While some may hesitate to place a bet on the Panthers at this stage, the consensus suggests they are a team to be reckoned with in the East. In the Western Conference, the Minnesota Wild is positioned to make the playoffs with odds of -150. Curious positioning arises with the Los Angeles Kings’ odds at -350, raising eyebrows about the Wild's potential. Given the odds favoring the Wild, it seems reasonable to view this bet favorably.

In terms of point totals, the Pittsburgh Penguins are projected to fall below 78.5 regular-season points at -120 odds. The current trajectory of the franchise, focusing on retooling rather than immediate contention, underscores a cautious approach moving forward. In contrast, the Dallas Stars face odds of +225 to win the Central Division, despite being viewed unfavorably by oddsmakers. With significant changes, including a new head coach and a full season of Mikko Rantanen, the Stars could emerge as strong contenders in a highly competitive division. Meanwhile, the Kings find themselves flirting with the possibility of missing the playoffs, reflected in +260 odds. Despite an underwhelming offseason, taking a position on the Kings could be worthwhile for those seeking value.

Conversely, the Detroit Red Wings offer enticing odds of +260 to make the playoffs. Their recent acquisition of goaltender John Gibson, alongside improvement following a midseason coaching change, signals potential progress. With rival teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets likely regressing, the Red Wings may find themselves in a stronger position. The Tampa Bay Lightning, however, face an over/under of 101.5 regular-season points at +100, suggesting skepticism about their ability to maintain previous heights. Similarly, the Las Vegas Golden Knights are set at under 104.5 points at -120, raising questions over their postseason prospects. Additionally, the Buffalo Sabres have struggled to better their roster, leading to projections of under 84.5 points at +100, as the franchise seeks to overcome a prolonged playoff drought.

As for bold wagers, the New York Rangers are poised for a rebound season, presently offered at +550 to win the Metropolitan Division. With adjustments to their roster and the continued excellence of goaltender Igor Shesterkin, the Rangers could surprise critics who doubt them. Given the high stakes involved and the uncertainty within the Metropolitan Division, this may be worth contemplation for those examining potential long shot bets. On the other hand, the intriguing free agency moves by the Golden Knights, including the acquisition of Mitch Marner, have positioned them as favorites in the Pacific Division at +155 and the Western Conference at +400. Nonetheless, previous seasons illustrate that even significant acquisitions do not guarantee dominance, especially in a formidable conference.

In summary, while the offseason remains tranquil, the groundwork for the upcoming season is firmly in motion. Betters and fans alike have the opportunity to reflect on team trajectories and emerging talent, ensuring a vigilant approach as the NHL preseason approaches.