NHL Odds & Betting Lines for Today

How To Read NHL Odds

Understanding how to read NHL odds is essential for making informed betting decisions. The American odds format, commonly used in the United States, displays betting odds with either a positive (+) or negative (-) sign. Here’s how it works:

• Positive Odds (+): Odds with positive values indicate the underdog in a matchup. The number represents the potential profit on a $100 wager. For example, if a team is listed at +150, a $100 bet would win $150 in profit, for a total payout of $250.
• Negative Odds (-): Odds with negative values, on the other hand, indicate the favorite team in a matchup. The number represents how much you need to bet to win $100 in profit. For instance, if a team is listed at -200, you would need to wager $200 to win $100 in profit, for a total payout of $300.

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.

Example: For a regular season game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Chicago Blackhawks, the moneyline odds might look like this:

• Tampa Bay Lightning: -180
• Chicago Blackhawks: +160

With this simple wager type, a $180 bet on the Lightning 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 / 3-Way Moneyline

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.

Example: In an individual game between the Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs, the 60-minute line at your favorite sportsbook might look like this:

• Boston Bruins: +120
• Toronto Maple Leafs: +150
• Tie: +250

In this example, a $100 bet on the Bruins 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 stake + $250 profit).

The 60-minute line offers higher payouts but adds the risk of a tie, making it a more challenging wager.

Puck Line Betting

Puck line betting is hockey’s version of a point spread. 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 betting style combines elements of moneyline and point spread wagering.

Example: In an individual 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)

For this example bet, 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 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).

Puck line betting offers better hockey betting odds for favorites and added security for underdogs, making it an appealing choice for many new and experienced bettors alike.

Totals Betting (Over/Under Wagers)

Totals betting, also known as over/under wagering, involves betting on the combined number of goals scored by both teams in a 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.

Example: For a game between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Seattle Kraken, the totals line might be set at 6.5 goals:

• Over 6.5 (-110): A $110 bet would return $210 if the combined score is 7 or more goals.
• Under 6.5 (-110): A $110 bet would return $210 if the combined score is 6 or fewer goals.

If the game ends with a final score of 4-3, the total goals would be 7 and the over bet would win. Totals betting is a great way to engage in a game without picking a winner, focusing instead on the scoring dynamics.

Prop Betting

Prop betting adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement for hockey fans, offering numerous betting opportunities beyond traditional game outcomes.

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

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.

Example: For a 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.

Team Props

Team prop bets focus on specific achievements by a team during a game that doesn’t directly relate to the game’s final result. This form of betting allows bettors to wager on a wide range of outcomes 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.

Example: 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.

Player Props

Player props bets are a betting option that focuses on the performance of individual player performances 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.

Example: 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.

Futures Betting

NHL futures betting involves wagering on long-term outcomes, typically focused on season-wide events or championships. Odds for futures bets are typically released well in advance of the betting event. Future wagers offer significant payouts due to the increased unpredictability.

Example: For the 2025 NHL season, a futures bet might involve predicting the winner of the Stanley Cup. Odds could look like this:

• Colorado Avalanche: +500
• Tampa Bay Lightning: +800
• New York Rangers: +1200

A $100 bet on the Avalanche at +500 would return $600 if they win the Stanley Cup ($100 original bet + $500 profit) or a $100 bet on the underdog team, the Rangers, with futures odds of +1200 would return $1,300 if they win ($100 original bet + $1,200 expected payout).

Futures betting requires patience but provides an exciting opportunity for large potential returns, rewarding those who correctly predict long-term outcomes.

Period Betting

Period betting allows bettors to wager on specific periods within an NHL game rather than the full game. These bets focus on outcomes during each of the three regulation periods, such as which team will win the period, the total goals scored or whether the period will end in a tie.

Example: For a game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Washington Capitals, a period bet on the first period might look like this:

• Penguins to win the 1st period: +150
• Capitals to win the 1st period: +180
• Tie after 1st period: +200

A $100 bet on the Penguins to win the first period would return $250 if they lead after the first period ($100 original bet + $150 profit).

Period betting offers flexibility for bettors looking to focus on shorter segments of the game, providing a quicker resolution than wagering on the outcome of the entire game.

Parlay Betting

Parlay betting combines multiple wagers into a single bet, 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.

Example: For an NHL slate, a parlay might include:

• 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 odds would return $764 ($100 original bet + $664 profit). However, if even one selection loses, the entire parlay bet is lost. Parlays appeal to bettors seeking larger payouts while embracing the added challenge of multiple outcomes.

Live Betting

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

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

• 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 their updated moneyline at +200, returning $300 if they win ($100 original bet + $200 profit).

Live betting offers dynamic and engaging opportunities for bettors to capitalize on game developments and momentum shifts.

How To Sign Up at Online Sports Betting Sites

Signing up for an online sports betting site is a simple process that typically takes only a few minutes. Follow these steps to get started:

• Choose a Trusted Sportsbook: Select a reputable online sportsbook with competitive NHL odds, a user-friendly interface and reliable payout options. Popular brands include legal sportsbook options such as DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook and Caesars Sportsbook.
• 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 your wager 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 betting environment.

Tips for Betting on Hockey Lines at Sportsbooks

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.
• Pay Attention to Goalies: A hockey team’s starting goalie significantly impacts its chances. Research their save percentage and recent performances before placing bets.
• 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 lines and betting odds. Compare options using our dynamic odds comparison table at the top of this betting guide to maximize your potential payouts. This odds table makes comparing the odds from leading legal sports betting sites convenient.
• 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 hockey betting, focus on simpler bets like moneylines or totals before venturing into props, parlays or making any live betting choices. 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 better betting experience.

Conclusion

Understanding NHL odds and betting markets is key to making informed wagers and enjoying the excitement of hockey betting. Whether you’re betting on moneylines, puck lines or individual player props, having a solid strategy and knowledge of the game improves your chances of success.

NHL Odds: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you read NHL odds?

To read 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?

NHL home teams 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.