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Ice hockey betting: slam your puck to winning wagers

Hockey is a prevalent sport in the USA and NHL stands for National Hockey League. NHL betting involves betting strictly on hockey games organized by the NHL as bettors seek to make money from the outcome of such games. Players can wager on a team winning the game or on the performance of a particular player. Bettors can bet on NHL events at land-based or online sportsbooks. They can also bet NHL games at betting exchanges in the United States.

Table of Contents

Odds on live NHL betting

Best NHL betting apps and sportsbooks

Varieties of NHL bets

Guide on NHL betting today

Who should I wager on NHL tonight?

Stanley Cup betting

Legal sportsbooks to bet on the NHL

Choosing a licensed hockey sportsbook

FAQ

Top NHL betting offers

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Odds on live NHL betting

Odds are multipliers in an event. The greater the likelihood of an event occurring, the lesser the odds. Likewise, the lesser the likeness of an outcome, the greater the odds. Live NHL betting refers to in-game gambling where bettors wager on the results of an NHL game as the game progresses. The odds change as the game proceeds.

Changes to the odd start before the match begins and also depend on the news released about the game. For instance, an injury to a key player before the game may influence the odds, and so can the release of the team sheet. You can explore NHL predictions tonight for information on betting tips.

The performances of each team in the game are a principal factor in changing the odds in a live game which determines how much the bettor can make from online NHL betting. Points garnered by the payers can also determine if the odds will rise or fall. If a team consistently shows signs of scoring, it will push the odds in favor of that persistent team and vice versa.

A team winning a live game with a wide goal margin will have its odds of winning the game reduced while the disadvantaged team may skyrocket. The purpose is to discourage bettors from betting on the stronger team and encourage them to wager on the weaker team.

Changes in NHL betting odds in a live game can be fast-paced. So, it would help if you placed the bet very fast lest you get lower odds. The odds are based on real-time information. So, you should look for such information to help you know when to do online NHL betting in live games.

Online NHL betting

Players can wager on NHL tomorrow games online by registering on a sportsbook. You can also wager on the event on a betting exchange. Online NHL betting removes the need to leave home to bet on games. With your device and internet connection, you can easily wager at your convenience.

The United States has over 40 sportsbooks today for those interested in NHL betting. However, a proper investigation is necessary before choosing any of them for betting. Each state in the country has specific rules and regulations regarding the operations of online sportsbooks.

Check if that sportsbook is well regulated in its state and operating in line with the government’s regulations. Some online sportsbooks only permit residents of their states to register there. We always encourage our readers to register on online sportsbooks permitting bettors from any state as it gives room for flexibility.

A sportsbook can also offer a sure NHL pick to its customers. It would help if you did your research before following that pick. The best place to research the free picks is an unbiased site.

Only register on a secure site where your personal and financial data will be secure. You should also ensure the site processes payment fast and is easy to navigate. A good online sportsbook will provide many payment methods for convenience.

Best NHL betting apps and sportsbooks

Some of the best sportsbooks offering NHL betting in the United States are:

PointsBet

Lace up your skates and get ready for a thrilling NHL experience with PointsBet! Dive into the icy action where every slapshot, every save, and every power play is magnified. This isn't just any sportsbook; it's your ticket to the rink, bringing the NHL's electrifying moments right to your screen. And with the PointsBet mobile app, the game travels with you, ensuring you're always in the center of the action, whether you're at home or on the go. So, whether you're backing your favorite team or predicting the next hat-trick hero, PointsBet is your ultimate NHL companion!

BetRivers Sportsbook

Gear up for an icy adventure with BetRivers Sportsbook! Where every face-off, every goal, and every penalty shot is more than just a game moment; it's a heart-pounding experience. Dive into the world of NHL with BetRivers, where the rink comes alive and the puck never stops. And the thrill doesn't end there; with the BetRivers mobile app, you're always one tap away from the latest NHL action. Whether you're cheering for the underdogs or the league leaders, BetRivers ensures you're right in the middle of the hockey frenzy!

FanDuel Sportsbook

Strap on your skates and dive into the icy world of NHL with FanDuel Sportsbook! This isn't just any sportsbook; it's a winter wonderland where every slapshot, every save, and every overtime thriller is a spectacle to behold. FanDuel brings the NHL's electric energy right to your screen, making every game a heart-stopping experience. And with the FanDuel mobile app, you're always in the zone, ready to predict the next hat-trick or game-winning goal. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or just love the thrill of the game, FanDuel is your ticket to the ultimate NHL adventure!

DraftKings Sportsbook

Get ready to drop the puck with DraftKings Sportsbook! Dive into the heart of the NHL, where every check, every goal, and every shootout is a spectacle of pure adrenaline. DraftKings brings the icy thrill of the NHL straight to your screen, ensuring you're always in the middle of the action. And with the DraftKings mobile app, the rink travels with you, making sure you never miss a moment of the NHL drama. Whether you're predicting the next team to lift the Stanley Cup or placing a bet on the league's top scorer, DraftKings is your ultimate NHL destination!

Caesars Sportsbook

Step into the grand arena of NHL with Caesars Sportsbook! Where the ice glistens and every slapshot, every save, and every power play becomes a moment of pure exhilaration. Caesars brings the NHL's legendary battles right to your screen, ensuring you're always on the edge of your seat. And the excitement doesn't stop there; with the unique Caesars Rewards®, win or lose, every wager brings you closer to majestic rewards. From VIP experiences to exclusive bonuses, the perks are endless. So, whether you're rooting for the rookies or the seasoned pros, with Caesars, you're always in for a royal NHL experience!

BetMGM Sportsbook

Brace yourselves for an icy rollercoaster with BetMGM Sportsbook! Step onto the rink where every NHL face-off, every goal, and every penalty becomes an epic saga. BetMGM transforms the NHL's fierce battles into a digital spectacle, ensuring you're always in the thick of the action. And the thrill doesn't end there; with BetMGM's seamless platform, you can dive into the heart of the NHL, whether you're predicting the next team to clinch a playoff spot or backing your favorite player for a hat-trick. So, lace up, get in the zone, and experience the NHL like never before with BetMGM!

Unibet Sportsbook

Unibet Sportsbook offers a diverse range of betting opportunities, with a particular emphasis on Ice Hockey. The platform provides bettors with numerous options, ensuring that every hockey game presents potential profit-making scenarios. Whether you're a fan of the NHL or international hockey tournaments, Unibet ensures you're covered. Beyond the icy rinks, the platform also offers betting on other popular sports, ensuring every sports enthusiast finds something to their liking. And if you're always on the move, don't fret! Unibet's seamless mobile experience ensures you never miss out on the action. So, ready to take a shot at predicting the next big hockey game?

Fox Bet Sportsbook

If you feel that it's time to hit the ice - try Fox Bet Sportsbook! Dive into the NHL universe where every goal, every save, and every power play becomes a heart-racing moment. Fox Bet brings the NHL's magic and intensity right to your fingertips, ensuring you're always part of the action. And the excitement doesn't stop there; with Fox Bet's state-of-the-art platform, you can immerse yourself in the world of hockey, predicting the next Stanley Cup champion or backing your favorite player for the MVP. So, gear up, get in the game, and experience the NHL like never before with Fox Bet!

TwinSpires Sportsbook

Get ready for a face-off with TwinSpires, recently known as BetAmerica! Dive into the NHL universe where every goal, every save, and every power play becomes a heart-racing moment. TwinSpires brings the NHL's magic and intensity right to your fingertips, ensuring you're always part of the action. Owned by the iconic Churchill Downs Incorporated, known for its rich wagering history and the world-famous Kentucky Derby, TwinSpires offers a top-tier betting experience. And the excitement doesn't stop there; with TwinSpires' seamless platform, you can dive into the heart of the NHL, predicting the next team to clinch a playoff spot or backing your favorite player for a hat-trick. So, gear up, get in the game, and experience the NHL like never before with TwinSpires!

License and regulation

Firstly, the sportsbook app should be licensed and regulated by a reputable authority in the United States. This will ensure that the app operates legally and ethically. Note that regulation rules differ across states in the country. So, learn about the local regulations before wagering on your hockey picks in the state.

Reputation

Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or other sports bettors before registering on the site. A sportsbook app with a good reputation is likely to offer fair odds and provide a good user experience.

User experience

Is the app easy to use and navigate? A well-designed sportsbook app should provide clear, concise information about odds, markets, and promotions.

Payment options

Check the available payment options for deposits and withdrawals on the site. A good sportsbook app should offer a variety of payment methods, including credit or debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.

Customer support

Choose a sportsbook app that offers 24/7 customer support, such as live chat, email, or phone support. This can be useful if you have any questions or issues that need to be addressed with speed.

Bonuses and promotions

Some sportsbook apps offer bonuses and promotions to new and existing customers. However, be sure to read the terms and conditions of these promotions as they may come with certain restrictions or wagering requirements.

Varieties of NHL bets

The following are the common gambling options for hockey odds betting:

NHL moneyline

Moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on the winner of a game. The money line odds for each team will vary based on the perceived strength of the team and the current betting market but the concept involves betting on one team to win.

60-minute line

The bet type is similar to the NHL Moneyline. However, it refers to the result at the end of the 3 periods in the tie option.

Puck line

A spread bet in which a handicap is applied to the favorite team. In NHL betting, the favorite is usually given a -1.5 goal spread, meaning they must win by 2 or more goals to cover the spread.

Double chance

A double chance bet allows you to cover two outcomes in one wager. You can bet on a team to win or draw with a double chance bet. This type of bet can offer better odds than traditional moneyline bets and provide a safety net in case the game ends in a tie.

Total goals

A bet on a game's total number of goals scored. The sportsbook will set a total, and you can bet on whether the number of goals scored will exceed that amount.

Correct score bets

A correct score bet is a wager on the exact final score of a game. This type of bet can offer higher odds than other types, such as money lines or totals, but it is also more challenging to predict the correct score of a game.

Proposition bets

Proposition bets are wagers on specific events or outcomes within a game, such as the first team to score, the total number of power-play goals, or the total number of shots on goal.

Grand salami

It is a type of over/under bet based on the combined total goals scored in all NHL games played on a given day.

NHL futures

A bet on the outcome of a future event. Futures bets can be placed before the season starts or at any point.

NHL parlays

It combines multiple individual bets into one larger bet. With a parlay bet, you can bet on the outcomes of two or more games simultaneously, and the payouts can be substantial provided all of your bets win.

Guide on NHL betting today

There are several NHL betting opportunities available today(you can check for betting opportunities from sportsbooks across the country). Some sites also offer NHL expert picks to players that need professional insight in picking the suitable game to bet on.

There are 32 NHL teams in North America–25 of them are based in the United States and the remaining 7 are in Canada. Note that the NHL is not just one of the professional sports leagues in the country but it is also among the country's four major professional sports leagues today.

Some of the hockey events where you can get NHL picks today are:

Stanley Cup playoff

This is the most prestigious tournament in the NHL and it takes place at the end of the regular season. 16 teams qualify for the playoffs, and the winner is awarded the cup.

Winter Classic

This takes place on New Year's Day and features two NHL teams playing in a special outdoor stadium.

NHL All-Star game

This is an exhibition game that takes place during the NHL season and features the league's best players competing in a skills competition and a game.

NHL entry draft

It’s an annual event where NHL teams select the best amateur hockey players from around the world.

World Cup of Hockey

This international tournament is held every four years and features teams from around the world competing for the title of World Champion.

Heritage Classic

This outdoor game takes place during the NHL season and features two NHL teams playing in a special outdoor stadium.

NHL Global Series

This is a series of regular-season NHL games played in Europe and other international locations.

Some sites will provide NHL betting tips on each game offered in the tournaments above.

Who should I wager on NHL tonight?

The following tips below will help you in NHL wagering:

Analyze player statistics

Analyze the players’ recent performances including goals, assists, shots on goal, and ice time. You can also consider other factors such as the player's consistency, the opposition, and home/away performance.

Consider the team's performance

A player's performance is often tied to their team's success. Look at the team's record, recent results, and overall form. You can also consider factors such as the team's special teams.

Check the injury report

Injuries can significantly impact a player's performance. Before betting on a player, check the injury report and consider how an injury may affect their performance.

Monitor line combinations

The players’ combination on the ice can significantly impact a player’s performance. Look at the player's line combinations and consider how the lines perform together.

Look at historical data

Consider the player's performance in previous matchups against the same opponent and their overall performance in similar situations.

Stanley Cup betting

The tips below will guide you on how to bet on Stanley cup hockey picks today:

Do your research

Before placing a bet, research the teams and players participating in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Consider factors such as the teams' regular-season performance, recent form, and stats.

Consider the odds

Odds indicate which team is favored to win the Stanley Cup. However, remember that the odds can change throughout the playoffs as teams advance or get eliminated.

Consider the schedule

The schedule of games can play a significant role in the outcome of a series. Consider factors such as travel, rest, and the number of games in a short period.

Analyze the matchups

Analyze how each team's strengths and weaknesses match up against each other. Consider factors such as the team's offensive and defensive abilities, including their particular team's records, like power play and penalty kill.

Consider the goaltender's role

Goalkeeping can make a lot of difference in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Consider the performance of each team's starting goaltender and their backup.

Bet responsibly

Make sure you manage your betting bank roll responsibly and only wager the money you can afford to lose. Remember that betting involves some degree of risk and nothing is guaranteed.

Legal sportsbooks to bet on the NHL

There are over 40 legalized sportsbooks in the United States today where you can bet on NHL games and the tips below will help you to pick the right one among them.

Check for legality

Make sure your chosen sportsbook is licensed and operates legally in your jurisdiction. You can check this information on the sportsbook's website or by contacting the relevant gaming authority.

Reputation

Choose a sportsbook with a good reputation in the industry and among bettors. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other bettors to find a trustworthy sportsbook.

Consider the odds

Compare the odds offered by different sportsbooks and choose the one that provides the best value for your bets. Remember that different sportsbooks may offer different odds for the same game.

Promotions and bonuses

Many sportsbooks offer promotions and bonuses to attract new bettors and retain existing ones. Consider these when choosing a sportsbook, and ensure you understand the associated terms and conditions.

User experience

Ensure the sportsbook's website and mobile app are easy to use and navigate. Consider factors such as the layout, betting options, and the ability to make deposits and withdrawals easily.

Customer service

Choose a sportsbook that offers good customer support, such as live chat, email, and phone support. Make sure the support is available 24/7 if you need assistance outside normal business hours.

Alternatives in states where online betting is illegal

If you reside in a state where you cannot access online hockey, you can bet on your NHL betting predictions via Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). DFS is a type of fantasy sport in which participants draft a team of real-life players and earn points based on their statistical performance.

DFS is not the same as traditional sports betting, but it provides a similar experience and allows individuals to compete against others for cash prizes. Players can sign up on a DFS platform in the country to place hockey bets today on daily fantasy hockey. These platforms offer several contests like head-to-head matchups, tournaments, and 50/50s.

You can build your team using a virtual salary cap and play against other users for cash prizes.

Other options include:

Land-based sportsbooks: In states where sports betting is legal, you can visit a retail sportsbook to place bets on hockey games. These sportsbooks often offer a wide range of betting options, including moneyline bets, point spread bets, and over/under bets.
Offshore sportsbooks: In states where sports betting is not yet legalized, individuals may still be able to place bets with offshore sportsbooks that operate outside of US jurisdiction. However, you must be aware of the risks associated with using these sportsbooks, as they may not be regulated like licensed ones.
Home games: You can participate in home games, where people gather to place bets on sporting events. However, some states consider home games illegal.

NHL daily fantasy

Daily fantasy hockey is popular in fantasy sports in the United States, allowing people to recreate a team of real-life NHL players. Federal law prohibits bettors to bet on a single game or player. Players can earn points in the game based on the player’s statistical performance.

In the United States, daily fantasy hockey is a skill-based game, but its legal status varies depending on the laws of each individual state.

Legalized in many states, including the following:

Colorado
Indiana
Kansas
Maryland
Massachusetts
Mississippi
Missouri
New York
Rhode Island

States that have not legalized Daily fantasy sports include:

Alabama
Arizona
Delaware
Hawaii
Idaho
Iowa
Louisianan
Montana
Nevada
Texas
Washington

States that accept DFS bettors and also have regulations for it:

California
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois

Gambling platforms in Illinois are challenging the opinion of the attorney general which labeled DFS as an illegal form of gambling. The outcome of the legal battle will determine what the future holds for the game in the state. You should check your local laws and regulations before participating.

Choosing a licensed hockey sportsbook

NHL predictions betting is exciting, but your betting activities should be limited to licensed sportsbooks. In this section, you will learn about those critical factors for determining if a sportsbook is licensed:

Demand for the license information

Most licensed sportsbooks will display their license information on their website, including the name of the regulatory body that issued the license and the license number. You can then verify this information with the regulatory body.

Check the regulatory body website

Most regulatory bodies have a website that provides information on licensed sportsbooks. You can use the license information provided by the sportsbook to search for their license on the regulatory agency’s website.

Contact the regulatory body

If you cannot find the information needed on the regulatory body's website, you can connect with them directly to verify the license. Wager only on licensed sportsbooks to protect your fund and identity. Such sportsbooks offer fair odds and betting options too. Unlicensed sportsbooks are not trustworthy and may defraud players.

What is the NHL's viewpoint on sports betting?

The National Hockey League supports sports betting and actively engages with several stakeholders to align its growth with the league. NHL partnered with MGM Resorts International to become the league's first official sports betting partner. The partnership allows MGM to use official NHL data and logos for sports betting and provides the NHL with a platform for engaging its fans.

It also struck data partnerships with other sports betting companies to provide official league data for sports betting. The league is also focused on protecting the integrity of its games and ensuring that any betting activities are transparent and done responsibly.

FAQ

Is it legal to bet on NHL games online?

Yes, it is 100% legal to bet on NHL games online in some US states. Many states in the United States and provinces in Canada have legalized online sportsbooks for this purpose. However, it would be best if you only wagered on sports events offered by the legalized online sportsbooks for the safety of your money, identity, and peace of mind.

What are the best NHL betting apps?

The best apps are the ones that are highly secure and will not reveal your details to a third party without your consent. Also, check if the app is regulated before using it. Read the laws surrounding the use of the app to know if it is legal to use that particular app in your location.

Which NHL betting sites offer the best odds?

By comparing the available betting sites, you can know the NHL betting site that offers the best odds. You should also limit your comparison to the same games on these apps. If the odds on the same event is higher on one betting site, that is the place to bet on the hockey game.

What kind of NHL betting offers do online sportsbooks provide to customers?

The following are the common NHL betting offers from online sportsbooks: Moneyline, Point Spread, Over Under, Futures and Prop bets.

Travis Asherton

Editor | Sports Betting Expert

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