The National Hockey League (NHL) has entered into multiyear agreements with prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket, marking the first such partnerships between a major U.S. professional sports league and prediction markets. These deals grant both companies access to official NHL data and the rights to use league trademarks, logos, and official designations on their platforms and products. Additionally, Kalshi and Polymarket will receive brand exposure through Digitally Enhanced Dasherboards and blue line slot virtual signage during NHL game broadcasts, including regular season national games, the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the NHL Winter Classic, and the NHL Stadium Series. ([nhl.com](https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-announces-landmark-multiyear-partnerships-with-kalshi-polymarket?utm_source=openai))
Keith Wachtel, President of NHL Business, emphasized the significance of these partnerships, stating, “As prediction markets continue to evolve at a rapid pace, partnering with the two market leaders, Kalshi and Polymarket, provides a tremendous opportunity for the broadest fan engagement during the NHL season.” ([nhl.com](https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-announces-landmark-multiyear-partnerships-with-kalshi-polymarket?utm_source=openai))
Prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket allow users to trade on the yes/no outcome of events, including sports. Unlike traditional sportsbooks such as FanDuel and DraftKings, these platforms operate in all 50 states, including jurisdictions where sports betting is not legal. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/46683244/nhl-inks-deal-prediction-markets-kalshi-polymarket?utm_source=openai))
Both Kalshi and Polymarket have experienced significant growth and investment in recent months. Kalshi raised over $300 million at a $5 billion valuation, with investors including Sequoia Capital and Andreessen Horowitz. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/10/10/kalshi-hits-5b-valuation-days-after-rival-polymarket-gets-2b-nyse-backing-at-8b/?utm_source=openai)) Polymarket secured a $2 billion investment from Intercontinental Exchange, valuing the company at $8 billion. ([ccn.com](https://www.ccn.com/news/business/polymarket-8b-valuation-vs-kalshi/?utm_source=openai))
Despite their growth, these platforms have faced legal challenges. Kalshi is currently involved in lawsuits with state gambling regulators who allege that the company is violating state law by offering event contracts that mimic sports bets. Kalshi argues that it falls under federal jurisdiction and is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/46683244/nhl-inks-deal-prediction-markets-kalshi-polymarket?utm_source=openai))
By partnering with Kalshi and Polymarket, the NHL aims to expand its fan base to the tech-savvy users of prediction markets. Wachtel noted, “Prediction markets are here to stay.” ([sportsbusinessjournal.com](https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/10/22/nhl-inks-licensing-agreement-with-kalshi-polymarket/?utm_source=openai))
These agreements signify a major step toward mainstream acceptance for prediction markets and could influence other professional sports leagues to explore similar collaborations. ([sportsbusinessjournal.com](https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/10/22/nhl-inks-licensing-agreement-with-kalshi-polymarket/?utm_source=openai))