If you want to get the best deals in NHL betting, you need to be smart about it. Start by checking different sportsbooks. Not all of them offer the same odds. A small difference in odds can mean a big change in your winnings over time. Look out for special offers too. Some sportsbooks give bonuses or boost your odds. The trending Betano sign-up bonus is a good starting point for new players that offer a 100% first deposit match up to $500.
Also, pay attention to stats. Some stats, like expected goals (xG) or possession numbers, give you more clues about how teams play. If you learn how to read these, you’ll make better picks
Moneyline Bets
A moneyline bet is the simplest kind. You just pick which team you think will win. In an NHL season, each team is assigned odds by sportsbooks that show their chances of winning. The favorite usually pays less because they are more likely to win. The underdog pays more, but it’s riskier.
If the Toronto Maple Leafs have -150 odds and the Ottawa Senators have +130, you would need to bet $150 on the Maple Leafs to win $100.
If you bet $100 on the Senators, you could win $130. Shopping around to find the best odds for the team you like is a good idea.
Puck Line Bets
Puck line betting works like a point spread in other sports. The favorite must win by two or more goals for the bet to succeed.
On the other hand, the underdog either has to win outright or lose by just one goal. Odds are tied to these conditions, so you’ll find higher rewards with greater risks when betting on the favorite.
If you believe a team has a strong chance to dominate, the puck line can offer better payouts compared to simpler moneyline bets. However, underdogs who keep games tight might be safer picks in this format.
Over/Under Bets
Over/under bets are about guessing how many goals will be scored. You just pick if the number will be higher or lower than a set amount, usually around 5.5 or 6.5. If a game ends 4-3 and the total is set at 6.5, the “over” wins. Checking how well teams score or defend can help you make a better choice.
Futures Bets
Futures bets are all about predicting big outcomes. You can bet on things like which team will win the Stanley Cup or which player will win an award. These bets usually have better payouts, but you have to wait a long time to see if you’re right.
Say the Tampa Bay Lightning are +700 to win the Stanley Cup. A $100 bet could win you $700. But many unknowns, like injuries or trades, can change a team’s season. Do some research on team rosters and recent performance before placing these bets.
Prop Bets
Prop bets are all about specific events, like guessing who scores the first goal, how many saves a goalie will make, or whether a game heads to overtime. If Connor McDavid’s odds to score the first goal are +600, a $10 bet wins $60.
Comparing Sportsbooks: Why It Matters
Not all sportsbooks have the same odds or offers. Some might give better odds on a certain team. Others might offer a bigger bonus for signing up. Comparing them can make a big difference in how much you win.
For example, if one sportsbook has +120 odds and another has +130, always go for the better number. It adds up over time. Promotions like risk-free bets or extra cash for deposits can also give you more to work with.
Conclusion
If you do your homework, betting on NHL games can be exciting and rewarding. Learn about bet types like moneyline, puck line, and prop bets. Always compare odds across sportsbooks to find the best deals. Use stats and trends to guide your choices. With some practice and research, you can make smarter bets and enjoy the game even more.
