The Flames are a very interesting team in the futures market.
The leaders for the Western Conference championship at this point in the season have to be considered the three division leaders. Here are their odds to win the conference (playoffs included):
1. San Jose Sharks, +250 (5/2), Sky Bet
2. Chicago Blackhawks, +380 (19/5), Sky Bet
3. Calgary Flames, +800 (8/1), Stan James
The problem with San Jose and Chicago is that their odds are so short. The Western Conference finals are still several months away, lots can happen between now and then, and you do not really want to make bets on the winner unless you get really long odds. Of the three contenders, you only get a good price with Calgary.
Let's assume that Calgary ends up the 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. That would give them home ice advantage in the first round and then they would probably be the road team in the rounds after that.
For most teams that is a disadvantage, but Calgary is such an excellent team on the road, they are 11-2-3, that playing a road series might not be such an disadvantage.
At +800 (8/1) to become Western Conference champions, the Flames are priced for the picking.
Go to Stan James to bet on NHL hockey futures.