In a historic move for the sports industry, the National Hockey League (NHL) has entered into multi-year licensing agreements with prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket. Announced today, October 22, 2025, this partnership marks the first time a major U.S. professional sports league has officially collaborated with prediction markets. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, these deals grant Kalshi and Polymarket the rights to use NHL trademarks, including “NHL” and “Stanley Cup,” for event contracts, signaling a seismic shift in how fans engage with hockey betting and predictions.
This development not only intensifies competition with traditional sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel but also positions the NHL as a forward-thinking league embracing innovative technology. For fans, bettors, and businesses alike, this move opens up exciting new opportunities. Let’s dive into the details of this groundbreaking partnership and what it means for the future of NHL betting.
What Are Prediction Markets, and Why Does This Matter?
Prediction markets allow users to bet on the outcomes of real-world events, from sports results to political elections, using financial or cryptocurrency-based platforms. Unlike traditional sports betting, which focuses on game-specific wagers, prediction markets offer a broader scope, enabling bets on season-long outcomes or unique events tied to the NHL.
The NHL’s decision to partner with Kalshi—a Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)-regulated platform—and Polymarket, a crypto-based market relaunched in the U.S., reflects a strategic pivot. These platforms operate nationwide, giving them a competitive edge over state-restricted sportsbooks. The licensing agreements allow Kalshi and Polymarket to create official NHL-related contracts, enhancing their legitimacy and appeal to tech-savvy fans.
Key Highlights of the Deal:
- Official Trademarks: Kalshi and Polymarket can now use NHL branding, including the iconic “Stanley Cup,” for their markets.
- Nationwide Reach: Kalshi’s CFTC regulation and Polymarket’s U.S. relaunch expand access beyond traditional betting markets.
- Competitive Pressure: The move has already impacted the market, with DraftKings shares dropping 27% since September 2025.
NHL’s Strategic Vision: Embracing Tech and Innovation
NHL Business President Keith Wachtel emphasized the league’s forward-looking approach, stating that “prediction markets are here to stay.” This partnership aligns with the NHL’s broader strategy to attract younger, tech-oriented audiences—a demographic increasingly engaged with digital platforms and cryptocurrency.
The timing is noteworthy. Post-2024 U.S. presidential election, prediction markets saw a surge in popularity, bolstered by favorable regulatory changes under the Trump administration. The NHL is capitalizing on this momentum, positioning itself as a pioneer among major sports leagues. This move complements the league’s recent successes, including partnerships with pop culture icons and innovative digital campaigns targeting Gen Z fans.
Impact on Sports Betting and Fan Engagement
The NHL’s collaboration with Kalshi and Polymarket intensifies the competitive landscape for sports betting. Traditional sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel, which have long held NHL licensing deals, now face increased pressure from these agile, tech-driven platforms. The 27% drop in DraftKings shares since September underscores the market’s response to this shift.
For fans, this partnership offers new ways to engage with the sport. Whether predicting the Stanley Cup winner or betting on individual player performances, prediction markets provide a dynamic alternative to traditional spreads and moneylines. This could attract a broader audience, including those new to hockey betting, as the NHL continues to grow its viewership and diversify its fan base.
What This Means for the Future
The NHL’s pioneering move sets a precedent for other major leagues, such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB, to explore similar partnerships. As prediction markets gain traction, driven by regulatory support and technological advancements, the sports betting industry may see a significant evolution. For brands and advertisers, this opens doors to tap into the NHL’s expanding audience through innovative marketing collaborations.
Looking ahead, the NHL is likely to deepen its integration of digital technology and data-driven insights, further blurring the lines between sports, entertainment, and finance. Fans can expect more exciting opportunities to participate in the league’s success, whether through betting, social media engagement, or interactive experiences.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Hockey Fans
The NHL’s licensing agreements with Kalshi and Polymarket mark a transformative moment for the league and the sports betting industry. By embracing prediction markets, the NHL is not only enhancing fan engagement but also securing its position as a leader in sports innovation. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, hockey enthusiasts and bettors alike will have a front-row seat to this exciting new chapter.
Stay tuned for more updates on NHL betting trends, odds, and predictions. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a curious newcomer, this partnership promises to redefine how we experience the thrill of the game. Ready to place your first prediction market bet? Explore Kalshi and Polymarket today!