Over one-third (33%) of Ontarians are placing bets on the Stanley Cup Playoffs, according to a recent survey.
May 27, 2025: Surge in Hockey Betting Among Ontarians as Stanley Cup Playoffs Heat Up
In the midst of the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has reported a robust level of interest in betting on the championship series. According to data released today, approximately 41% of Ontarians watching the playoffs are placing wagers, with a significant number feeling optimistic about their chances of winning.
As the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars face off in a pivotal Game 4 tonight in Edmonton, with the Oilers leading the best-of-seven series 2-1, 68% of PROLINE players are backing the Oilers to prevail, while 85% expect them to cover the Puckline at -1.5. If their predictions hold, the Oilers' win total would surpass the line of 6.5 goals set by PROLINE.
Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, the Florida Panthers look poised to eliminate the Carolina Hurricanes after a 3-0 victory last night, giving Florida a commanding 3-1 series lead. Tonight's game will be the decisive match in this rivalry, and 68% of PROLINE players are wagering on Florida to secure their place in the next round.
According to BetMGM, the Panthers have seen the most significant line movement since Round 1, with their odds improving from +750 to +105. The Oilers trail closely behind, with their odds improving from +950 to +140, and the Stars moving from +850 to +700. The Toronto Maple Leafs have garnered the highest ticket percentage (11%) and handle (12.1%) among all teams in the playoffs.
As the excitement builds around these high-stakes hockey matches, the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) has highlighted the importance of maintaining responsible betting habits. Based on their survey of Ontarians, 41% of playoff viewers plan to place wagers, with 52% intent on betting $100 or less. The RGC encourages consumers to approach betting cautiously, focusing on enjoyment rather than attempting to predict the unexpected or betting beyond their means.
Despite the widespread interest in hockey betting, concerns persist regarding problem gambling and financial risks associated with excessive wagering. The RGC's survey revealed that 39% of playoff bettors placed wagers in the past 12 months, and 27% have reported borrowing money or selling possessions to facilitate their gambling. Additionally, nearly 40% of respondents admitted to experiencing mental health issues, including stress and anxiety, as a result of their gambling habits.
In light of these issues, the RGC stresses the importance of education, responsible gambling measures, and support services. These efforts aim to ensure an enjoyable and safe environment for sports enthusiasts while they engage in betting during the playoffs and beyond.
- The current NHL playoffs have led to an increase in hockey betting among Ontarians, with about 41% of playoff viewers placing wagers.
- PROLINE, the corporation that offers sports betting in Ontario, has reported that 68% of its players are backing the Edmonton Oilers and 68% are wagering on the Florida Panthers in their respective games.
- The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) warn of the risks associated with excessive hockey sports-betting, including problem gambling, financial risks, and mental health issues.
- Despite these concerns, the RGC emphasizes the importance of education, responsible gambling measures, and support services to ensure a safe and enjoyable betting environment for hockey fans in Canada.
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