As the NHL's postseason tournament approaches, draft experts at DraftKings have released their updated odds for all 16 teams competing for the Stanley Cup. With the intense competition ahead, speculation is running high as fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of the 16-game springtime gauntlet.

Starting at the bottom, the Washington Capitals sit in the 16th position, clinching the second Eastern wild-card spot with a 4-1-0 record. However, their chances of advancing deep into the playoffs are slim. Despite having a 2-2-0 season series against the New York Rangers, it is doubtful that the Capitals will make it past the first round.

The New York Islanders and Carolina Hurricanes faced off last year in the first round, resulting in a six-game series. This time around, there's no reason to believe it won't happen again. Although the Islanders have shown promising performances against the Hurricanes, it is unlikely they will make it to the second round.

The Nashville Predators, with a strong season record of 16-0-2, have emerged as a legitimate threat. Led by goalie Juuse Saros and backed by a pair of alternate captains with Stanley Cup rings, the Predators are a team worth watching, particularly if they manage to advance past their first-round opponent, the Vancouver Canucks.

The Los Angeles Kings, relying on their experienced core of veterans, have the potential to defeat any team in a seven-game set. However, their inconsistent record of 5-5-0 leading up to the playoffs and their goaltending tandem's less-than-stellar playoff history might hinder their progress.

Moving up the list, the Tampa Bay Lightning have shown why they are considered a strong contender. With a points percentage of .675 since February 29 and goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy's impressive stats, including 65 playoff wins and seven shutouts, the Lightning will undoubtedly pose a challenge to any team they face.

The Winnipeg Jets have frequently teased fans with their potential but have yet to make a deep playoff run. With 51 wins this season and intermittent appearances at the top of power rankings, the Jets are an enigma. They could either be quickly eliminated by the Colorado Avalanche or potentially make it to the finals. Their performance will certainly be one to watch closely.

Despite a strong season and a division title, the Vancouver Canucks are listed as the 10th pick in the playoffs, falling behind teams with lower points totals. However, their underdog status may appeal to bettors looking for a potential upset.

The Toronto Maple Leafs boast one of the league's best offensive lineups and have performed well on the road. However, they face the daunting task of defeating the Boston Bruins, against whom they have struggled, going winless in their previous games this season.

As defending champions, the Vegas Golden Knights hold a significant advantage, despite uncertainty surrounding their final standings and first-round opponent. Their three-game win streak leading into the playoffs suggests they should not be underestimated.

The Boston Bruins, despite an impressive regular season, find themselves in a precarious position due to their disappointing performance in last year's playoffs. Their fifth overall standing only earns them a seventh pick in this year's playoffs, reflecting the doubts surrounding their ability to make a deep run.

The Dallas Stars defy expectations with their high ranking despite being tied for second overall. With an outstanding road record, a strong goal differential, and multiple players with impressive goal contributions, the Stars present an intriguing betting opportunity at +850.

The New York Rangers, winners of the President's Trophy for the first time in nine years, unfortunately face the historical curse associated with finishing first overall. History suggests that a top-seeded team rarely goes on to win the Stanley Cup, making the Rangers' chances uncertain.

The Edmonton Oilers, led by the world's best player Connor McDavid, have shown dominance this season, garnering attention for a potential deep playoff run. With a league-leading 46-16-5 record under head coach Kris Knoblauch, the Oilers cannot be discounted.

The Colorado Avalanche's performance has been a mix of hot and cold. While they have the potential to win the Cup, their recent struggles, including a 7-0 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, raise questions about their consistency.

The Florida Panthers, who came close to winning the Cup last season, enter the playoffs with an impressive four-game win streak. With strong on-ice performances and a division title, the Panthers are a force to be reckoned with.

Finally, the Carolina Hurricanes, consistently among the league's elite teams, have proven their prowess by finishing in the top rankings consistently. With a solid offense and defense, they are deserved favorites entering the playoffs. However, their playoff history raises doubts about their ability to clinch the Stanley Cup.

As the odds are set, fans eagerly await the start of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, ready to witness unforgettable moments and potential upsets. Only time will reveal which team will emerge as the victor and etch their name in hockey history.