NHL Partners with Kalshi and Polymarket for Prediction Markets; DraftKings Expands into Event Contracts

The National Hockey League has forged partnerships with prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket, granting them access to proprietary NHL data. The collaboration will enable the creation of fan-facing contracts and markets tied to hockey events. Both platforms will feature NHL branding on verified products, with additional exposure through digital signage during major broadcasts like the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Separately, DraftKings has acquired Railbird Technologies, a CFTC-licensed exchange for event contracts, as part of its push beyond traditional sports betting. The company plans to launch DraftKings Predictions, a mobile app allowing users to trade outcomes across sports, entertainment, and financial markets. The MOVE sent DraftKings shares up 6% in pre-market trading.

DraftKings CEO Jason Robins acknowledged past regulatory hesitations around prediction markets, which face scrutiny from state governments and tribal gaming groups. The expansion reflects the growing convergence of gaming, finance, and blockchain technology in speculative markets.