NHL Odds & Betting Lines for Today

How To Read NHL Odds

Understanding odds is essential for making informed betting decisions on the National Hockey League. The American odds format, commonly used in the United States, displays hockey betting odds with either a positive (+) or negative (-) sign.

Here’s how it works:

• Positive Odds (+): NHL betting odds with a plus sign indicate the underdog team in a head-to-head matchup. The number represents the potential profit on a $100 wager.
• Negative Odds (-): NHL betting odds listed with a minus sign, on the other hand, indicate the favorite team in a matchup. This represents how much you need to bet to win $100 in profit.

By understanding these odds, bettors can gauge the implied probability of an outcome and compare it to their own predictions, helping them find value in the betting lines.

Popular Types of Hockey Bets

Exploring the wide array of sports betting options available is crucial for anyone looking to engage in hockey betting. Each type offers different strategies and levels of risk, catering to a wide range of betting preferences.

Here’s an overview of the primary NHL betting markets and options available to bettors:

Moneyline Betting

Moneyline betting allows bettors to wager on which team will win the game outright, without considering the margin of victory. With this common wager type, the odds reflect the perceived strength of each team, with favorites shown as negative odds and underdogs as positive odds.

For a regular season game between the Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks, the moneyline odds might look like this:

• Washington Capitals: -180
• Chicago Blackhawks: +160

With this simple wager type, a $180 bet on the Capitals’ team to win would return $280 if they win ($180 original bet + $100 profit). A $100 bet on the Blackhawks would return $260 if they win ($100 original bet + $160 profit).

60-Minute Line

The 60-minute line, also known as the 3-way moneyline, is a betting option where wagers are settled based on the outcome at the end of regulation time. This type of bet includes three possible outcomes: Team A wins, Team B wins or the hockey game ends in a tie after 60 minutes. Since overtime and shootouts are excluded, odds are often more favorable compared to standard moneyline bets.

In a game during the regular season between the New York Islanders and the Toronto Maple Leafs, the 60-minute line at your favorite sportsbook might look like this:

• New York Islanders: +120
• Toronto Maple Leafs: +150
• Tie: +250

In this example, a $100 bet on the Islanders would return $220 if they lead after regulation ($100 initial stake + $120 profit).

Conversely, a $100 bet on the Maple Leafs would return $250 if they lead after regulation ($100 original bet + $150 profit). Finally, a $100 bet on a tie would return $350 if the game is tied after regulation ($100 initial stake + $250 profit).

Puck Line Betting

Puck line betting is hockey’s version of an NHL point spread bet. With the puck line bet, the favored team must win by more than a set margin (usually 1.5 goals), while the underdog can lose by one goal and still cover the spread. This wagering style combines elements of moneyline and point spread bets.

In a Stanley Cup playoffs game between the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames, the NHL puck line might look like this:

• Edmonton Oilers -1.5 (+150)
• Calgary Flames +1.5 (-170)

A $100 wager on the Oilers at -1.5 would have a potential payout of $250 if they win by 2 or more goals ($100 original bet + $150 profit). A $170 point spread bet on the Flames at +1.5 would return $270 if they win outright or lose by exactly 1 goal ($170 original stake + $100 profit).

Totals Betting

NHL totals betting, also known as over/under wagering, involves betting on the combined number of goals scored by both teams in an entire game. With this bet type, the sportsbook sets a combined goal total and sports bettors wager on whether the actual combined score will be over or under that number.

For a hockey game between the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders, the totals line might be set at 6.5 goals:

• Over 6.5 (-110)
• Under 6.5 (-110)

If the game ends with a final score of 4-3 Montreal Canadiens to New York Islanders, the total goals would be 7 and the over bet would win.

Prop Betting

Betting on NHL prop bets, short for proposition bets, allows hockey bettors to wager on various game aspects that don’t necessarily relate to the final outcome. Prop bets can range from individual player performances to team statistics and specific events occurring within a game. Props add an extra layer of engagement for hockey fans, offering numerous betting opportunities beyond traditional outcomes.

NHL prop bets are divided into three main categories: game props, team props and player props:

NHL Game Props

Game props allow bettors to wager on various elements of the game itself, outside of the final outcome or individual team achievements. These bets can cover a wide array of aspects, including the total number of goals scored in the game, which period will be the highest scoring or whether the game will go into overtime.

For an NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Florida Panthers, a game prop bet might be on the “Total Goals Over/Under” for the game set at 5.5. Bettors can wager on whether they believe the combined total goals scored by both teams will be over or under this number.

NHL Team Props

Team props focus on specific achievements by a team during a game that doesn’t directly relate to the game’s final result. These bets can involve aspects such as the team to score the first goal, how many goals a team will score or the number of penalties a team will incur.

In a matchup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings, a team prop bet could be on which team will score the “First Goal” of the game. Bettors can place wagers on the Maple Leafs or the Red Wings to score the first goal, providing a way to win money based on early game events.

NHL Player Props

NHL player props bets are a betting option that focuses on the performance of individual players within a game. These bets on players allow for wagering on specific statistical achievements by key players, such as the number of goals or assists a player will have, the number of shots on goal or the goaltender’s save percentage.

For a game involving the Pittsburgh Penguins, a player prop bet might involve Sidney Crosby and the “Total Points” he will score (goals + assists) in the game, with the line set at 1.5. Bettors can then wager on whether Crosby will score more than 1.5 points during the game.

NHL Futures Odds & Stanley Cup Betting

As the name implies, futures markets are for future events within a league. Betting on NHL futures involves placing wagers on major outcomes and events that will be decided over the course of the regular season or at its end, rather than the result of a single game. This form of betting allows fans to predict long-term outcomes based on their insights into the league, teams and players.

Typically, these bets focus on the following markets:

• Stanley Cup Winner: Betting on which team will win the Stanley Cup during the NHL Playoffs is the most popular futures bet. Odds are available year-round and adjust based on team performance, injuries, NHL betting news and other factors. For example, if the Colorado Avalanche are listed at +750 to win the NHL Playoffs, a $100 bet would return $750 in profit if they win.
• Conference Champions: Similar to Stanley Cup betting, this involves picking which team will win the Eastern Conference or Western Conference. As an example, betting on the Boston Bruins to win the Eastern Conference might come with odds of +400, offering a $400 profit on a $100 bet if successful.
• Division Winners: Sports bettors can wager on who will come out on top in each of the NHL’s divisions. Hypothetically, placing a wager on the Vegas Golden Knights to win the Pacific Division at odds of +300 would yield a $300 profit for a $100 bet if they clinch the division.
• Award Winners: Futures wagers can also be placed on individual achievements, such as who will win the Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) or the Vezina Trophy (best goaltender). As an example, if Connor McDavid is +500 to win the Hart Trophy, a $100 bet would net $500 in profit if he is named MVP.

Futures offer excitement throughout the season, keeping bettors engaged and providing opportunities to capitalize on predictions well before outcomes are decided. By carefully analyzing team potential, player performance and season trends, futures can become profitable investments for hockey bettors.

Parlay Betting Odds

Mixed-game or same-game parlay betting combines multiple bets into a single wager, requiring all selections to win for the parlay to cash. While riskier than individual bets, parlays offer significantly higher payouts due to their cumulative odds. You can find both same-game parlays and mixed-game parlays for the most popular sports leagues at major sportsbooks.

For an NHL slate, a parlay might include the following options from different games:

• Tampa Bay Lightning to win (-180)
• Edmonton Oilers -1.5 (+150)
• Over 5.5 goals in the Boston Bruins vs. New York Rangers game (-110)

If all three bets win, then a $100 parlay wager combining these NHL odds would return $764 ($100 original bet + $664 profit). However, if even one selection loses, the entire parlay bet is lost.

NHL Live Odds Betting

Live betting (also known as in-game betting) allows bettors to place wagers on NHL games as the hockey action unfolds. The odds and markets are updated in real time based on the game’s progress, giving bettors opportunities to react to changing circumstances.

During a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Bruins, live betting options might include the following odds:

• Updated Moneyline: Maple Leafs +200 (after falling behind early)
• Next Team to Score: Bruins -120
• Over/Under Total Goals (updated): 7.5

If the Maple Leafs are trailing but showing signs of a comeback, a hockey bettor might place $100 on the live NHL odds at +200, returning $300 if they win ($100 original bet + $200 profit).

How To Sign Up at Online Sportsbooks

Signing up for an online sports betting site is a simple process that typically takes only a few minutes. With the growing popularity of online wagering, NHL fans now have access to many sportsbooks offering competitive odds, secure platforms and attractive bonuses.

Follow these straightforward steps to create your online betting account and start wagering safely and responsibly:

• Choose a Trusted Sportsbook: Select a reputable sportsbook with competitive NHL odds, a user-friendly interface and reliable payout options. Popular legal sportsbook options include DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook and Caesars Sportsbook, among others.
• Create an Account: Visit the sportsbook’s website or app and click “Sign Up” or “Join Now.” Enter basic details like your name, email address, date of birth and password. Some sites may require identity verification.
• Deposit Funds: Navigate to the cashier or banking section in the sportsbook menu to fund your account. Most sportsbooks accept a variety of payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards and e-wallets.
• Claim Bonuses: Many legal sports betting apps and sportsbooks offer sign-up bonuses for new users. Enter any required promo code or opt-in during registration to take advantage of free bets on games, deposit matches or other special offers.
• Place Your Bet: Once your account is funded, browse the available NHL betting markets, select a wager with favorable NHL betting odds and confirm your wager on your digital bet slip. If your bet wins, your account will automatically be credited with your bet earnings.

Always ensure the sportsbook is licensed and secure, protecting your personal and financial information while providing a fair sports wagering environment.

Tips & Strategies for Betting on Hockey Lines

Betting on hockey lines can be profitable with the right strategies. Here are some betting tips to help you make more informed wagers:

• Understand Team Performance: Analyze recent form, key player injuries and head-to-head matchups. Teams on winning streaks or playing at home often have an advantage.
• Consider Schedule Fatigue: Teams playing back-to-back games or long road trips may perform below expectations. Use this to identify potential upsets.
• Shop for the Best Odds: Different online sportsbooks and mobile sports betting apps offer varying NHL odds and lines. Use our dynamic odds comparison table to maximize your potential payouts. You can get the best odds from platforms such as Caesars, DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook.
• Focus on Situational Betting: Look for specific game circumstances, such as divisional rivalries or teams fighting for playoff spots, which can influence intensity and outcomes.
• Start With Straight Bets or Picks: If you’re new to betting on the NHL, focus on simpler bets like moneylines or totals before venturing into props or parlays. Additionally, consider using one of our NHL computer picks for more accurate predictions.

Smart preparation and careful analysis are crucial to improving your success rate and enjoying a more well-rounded betting experience.

Conclusion

Betting on the National Hockey League is exciting, fast-paced and filled with opportunities. The key to consistent betting success is to stay informed, do thorough research and always compare odds to ensure the best possible value.

By making smart decisions, managing your bankroll carefully and focusing on value-driven wagers, you can increase your chances of turning NHL betting into a rewarding experience all season long.

NHL Odds: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you read NHL odds?

When it comes to NHL odds, understand the moneyline: favorites (-) showing how much you bet to win $100 and underdogs (+) the winnings from a $100 bet. Puck lines give a 1.5 goal spread and over/under bets relate to total goals scored, with similar payout indications.

What is the best way to bet on NHL games?

The best way to bet on NHL games often involves a mix of moneyline, puck line and over/under bets, taking into account team performance, head-to-head statistics, injuries and goaltending matchups. Smart bettors also look for value in odds, manage their bankroll wisely and stay updated on the latest league news.

How often do NHL home teams win?

Home teams in the National Hockey League have displayed a notable advantage over the past couple of years, with a combined winning percentage of .545. This means that, historically, they win 54.5% of the time when playing on their home ice.

How often do underdogs win in hockey?

In the NHL, underdogs win over 40 percent of the time, which is higher compared to underdogs in other popular markets such as the NFL and NBA.

Can you tease NHL bets?

No, unlike in sports such as football or basketball, betting teasers are typically not available in the NHL due to the way hockey betting lines work, with most wagers being made on the moneyline.