The National Hockey League (NHL) has signed official licensing agreements with prediction markets Kalshi and Polymarket, marking a first-of-its-kind partnership between a major U.S. sports league and crypto-based betting platforms.
This collaboration grants both companies the right to use NHL’s branding, team names, and event titles—including the iconic Stanley Cup—in their marketing materials and promotional activities during matches.
First Official Partnership Between the NHL and Prediction Markets
Representatives from both Kalshi and Polymarket confirmed the news, highlighting that this is the first formal partnership between a major American sports association and decentralized prediction markets.
Under the multi-year agreement, both platforms will be able to feature NHL-related content on their trading interfaces and promote their services through digital arena displays (DED) and virtual signage shown during game broadcasts.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Kalshi—already legally operating in the U.S.—had previously avoided using official sports trademarks to reduce the risk of litigation. Polymarket, in contrast, re-entered the U.S. market in September 2025, following a period of regulatory restructuring. The new partnership strengthens both platforms’ compliance standing and mainstream visibility.
A Strategic Step for Fan Engagement
Commenting on the partnership, Keith Wachtel, President of NHL Business, emphasized its potential to deepen fan engagement throughout the hockey season:
“As prediction markets continue to evolve rapidly, partnering with two leaders in the field — Kalshi and Polymarket — offers massive opportunities to boost fan interaction and excitement across the NHL season.”
This move reflects the league’s growing interest in innovative fintech collaborations, positioning prediction markets as a modern alternative to traditional sportsbooks.
Impact on the Betting and Prediction Market Landscape
Analysts suggest the NHL’s collaboration with Kalshi and Polymarket could intensify competition with established betting giants like DraftKings. In response, DraftKings recently acquired Railbird, a data-driven firm focusing on predictive analytics and event forecasting — signaling the company’s intent to expand into this emerging sector.
The partnership also reinforces the idea that crypto-based forecasting platforms are gaining legitimacy in the U.S. market, bridging the gap between blockchain innovation and mainstream sports entertainment.
By aligning with Kalshi and Polymarket, the NHL has taken a historic step toward integrating blockchain-based prediction markets into the world of professional sports. This collaboration not only highlights the growth potential of crypto-native forecasting platforms but also sets a precedent for other leagues exploring fintech partnerships in the coming years.
