The Carolina Hurricanes are odds-on favorites thanks to a former Pittsburgh Penguins forward.

PITTSBURGH – The day before the NHL trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Penguins traded away one of their most lethal goal scorers. Jake Guentzel was dealt to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Michael Bunting and some decent prospects.

While Bunting was a solid add for the Penguins, they inevitably missed out their chance to compete in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Hurricanes on the other hand, are not only in the postseason, but appear to be front-runners to win it all.

In 17 regular season games with the Hurricanes, Guentzel put up eight goals and 17 assists for a record-breaking 25 points. That is the most ever by a trade deadline pickup.

Guentzel’s presence and production are a big reason why the Hurricanes are the odds-on favorite to win. Moneypuck.com only gives them an 8.2% chance, but according to multiple sportsbooks, it’s the Hurricanes’ year.

BetMGM and DraftKings give the Hurricanes a +550 to win the Cup, the best odds of any playoff team. Guentzel himself is a +1700 to win the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP.

Guentzel did not record a point in the Hurricanes’ Game 1 win over the New York Islanders.

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