The Panthers are in search of their third division title in four seasons while the Leafs look for their very first Atlantic title since realignment more than a decade ago. But could there be a third option that adds value? We dig deep and seek out a sleeper pick in the Atlantic. The Atlantic Division looks to be a two-horse race between the Florida Panthers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. That being said, we know how the Maple Leafs like to let their fanbase down and with the Panthers at risk of burnout, the Bruins may be a solid outside option. Let’s take a deeper look at some of these top options.
Florida Panthers +225
The defending Stanley Cup champions are the favorites to repeat but they’ve played a lot of hockey over the last two seasons, making the Finals each time. The Panthers lost some pieces including Brandon Montour but management signed former first rounder Adam Boqvist who could add some offense from the backend. The top-six returns and so does the man between the pipes as the Panthers look to go back-to-back in 2025.
Toronto Maple Leafs +270
It was the same old, same old in Toronto. Make the playoffs, then exit in the first round to the dismay of players, management and fans. What the team is banking on this season is a changing of the guard as John Tavares gave Auston Matthews the captaincy and Craig Berube takes over from Sheldon Keefe as head coach. They added some veteran leadership and shotblocker Chris Tanev and signed backup goalie Anthony Stolarz. Aside from the Covid season,Toronto hasn’t won a division title in almost a quarter century (1999-2000 season).
Boston Bruins +500
The Bruins made a huge splash signing Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov. Lindholm can become the top line center this franchise has been searching for while Big Z will be a tower in the backend and a favorite with fans and media as he can shut down the opposition’s topscorers. Goaltender Jeremy Swayman is a bonafide number one and will be a big reason for the Bruins success. While Florida and Toronto are deeper and have more depth, Boston could surprise many if everything comes together during the season.
Atlantic Division Odds
Florida Panthers +225
Toronto Maple Leafs +270
Boston Bruins +500
Tampa Bay Lightning +500
Ottawa Senators +1100
Detroit Red Wings +1200
Buffalo Sabres +1400
Montreal Canadiens +8000
