Hockey betting is a popular and exciting way for fans to engage with the sport, offering various betting options and strategies. From moneyline bets to prop bets, understanding the different types of wagers and strategies is crucial for success. This guide explores everything you need to know about hockey betting.
What is Hockey Betting?
Hockey betting is the act of placing wagers on the outcome of ice hockey games. Like other sports, betting on hockey involves predicting various game outcomes, such as the winner, the total number of goals scored, or individual player performances. Hockey betting can take place on both professional leagues, such as the NHL, and international tournaments, including the Olympics and World Cup.
Hockey betting offers a wide range of betting options, making it appealing to a broad audience. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, understanding the types of bets and strategies can significantly improve your chances of making successful wagers.
Types of Hockey Bets
In hockey betting, several bet types are available, and each has its own unique appeal. Let’s break down the most common types of hockey bets:
1. Moneyline Bets
The moneyline bet is the most straightforward type of hockey bet. In a moneyline bet, you are simply betting on which team will win the game. The odds are displayed next to each team, and the favorite will have negative odds (e.g., -150), while the underdog will have positive odds (e.g., +130). The negative odds indicate the amount you need to wager to win $100, while the positive odds indicate how much you stand to win if you bet $100.
2. Puck Line Bets
The puck line bet is similar to the point spread bet in other sports. A puck line bet typically involves the favorite team being given a -1.5 goal spread, while the underdog gets a +1.5 goal spread. This means the favorite must win by at least two goals for the bet to be successful, while the underdog can either win or lose by a single goal for the bet to win.
3. Over/Under Bets (Total Goals)
In an over/under bet, also known as a total goals bet, you are betting on the combined total number of goals scored by both teams. The sportsbook will set a line, such as 5.5 goals, and you can wager on whether the total goals scored in the game will be over or under that number. This type of bet does not require you to pick a winner, but rather just to predict how many goals will be scored in total.
4. Parlay Bets
A parlay bet is a wager that combines multiple bets into one. For example, you could place a parlay bet on the moneyline of two different games. To win the parlay, all your selections must be correct. Parlays can be appealing because they offer higher payouts due to the increased risk of needing all selections to win. However, parlays can be difficult to hit, so they are best used cautiously.
5. Prop Bets
Prop bets (short for proposition bets) are unique wagers that focus on specific events or outcomes during a game. These can include things like which player will score first, how many penalty minutes will be recorded, or the number of shots on goal by a specific player. Prop bets allow fans to wager on more granular aspects of the game, adding extra excitement.
Key Hockey Betting Strategies
While hockey betting can be unpredictable, there are several strategies that can improve your chances of success. Here are some key strategies to keep in mind when betting on hockey:
1. Understand the Teams and Players
Before placing any bet, it’s essential to research the teams and players involved in the game. This includes understanding each team’s performance trends, recent injuries, head-to-head statistics, and any other factors that might affect the game’s outcome. Player performance, including things like shooting accuracy, faceoff win percentages, and goaltender stats, can make a huge difference in the result of a game.
2. Focus on the Underestimated Teams
In hockey betting, many bettors tend to favor the top-ranked teams. However, underestimating the lower-ranked teams can provide opportunities for value bets. These teams often have better odds, and while they might not win every game, they have the potential to surprise, especially in a highly competitive league like the NHL.
3. Consider the Special Teams
Power plays and penalty kills are critical aspects of hockey, and teams that perform well on special teams can often outplay their opponents, even if they’re not as strong in other areas. When betting, always consider the power play efficiency and penalty kill statistics for both teams. A team with a strong power play might be able to score more goals, and one with an excellent penalty kill could limit the opposing team’s chances.
4. Bet on the Goaltenders
The performance of the goaltenders is one of the most important factors in hockey betting. A hot goalie can completely change the outcome of a game, while a cold goalie can allow multiple goals quickly. Before placing a bet, take a look at the goalies’ recent performances, save percentages, and any historical success they’ve had against the team they’re playing.
5. Manage Your Bankroll
Bankroll management is crucial in any form of sports betting, and hockey betting is no different. It’s essential to set a budget for how much you’re willing to wager and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses, and never wager more than you can afford to lose. Betting responsibly is key to enjoying hockey betting as a fun and rewarding experience.
Popular Leagues and Tournaments for Hockey Betting
Hockey betting spans many leagues and tournaments across the world, but some of the most popular include:
National Hockey League (NHL)
The NHL is the premier professional hockey league in North America, and it’s the most popular league for hockey betting worldwide. With teams from both the United States and Canada, the NHL features high-level competition and exciting games. The playoffs, which determine the Stanley Cup champion, are particularly thrilling and offer many betting opportunities.
International Tournaments
International tournaments such as the IIHF World Championship and the Olympics also provide great opportunities for hockey betting. These events showcase some of the best hockey talent from around the world and often feature unexpected upsets and exciting matchups, which can be lucrative for savvy bettors.
European Leagues
While the NHL dominates North America, European leagues like the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) and Swedish Hockey League (SHL) also offer ample betting opportunities. These leagues feature different styles of play and different betting dynamics, and they can be especially valuable for bettors with a deep understanding of international hockey.
Common Mistakes in Hockey Betting
Avoiding common mistakes can be the difference between long-term profitability and frequent losses. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
1. Ignoring Recent Form
One of the biggest mistakes is ignoring a team’s recent form. A team’s performance in the last few games can be a significant indicator of how they will perform in their upcoming match. Make sure to check recent results, as a team that has won several games in a row may be in great form, while a team that has been struggling may be more vulnerable.
2. Betting Without Research
Some bettors place wagers without doing enough research. Researching the teams, players, and stats is critical for making informed bets. If you’re not taking the time to study the matchup, you’re betting blindly, which increases the likelihood of losses.
3. Overvaluing the Favorite
It’s easy to bet on the favorite, especially when they have the best odds. However, favorites often don’t provide great value, and in hockey, upsets happen regularly. Always look for value in the underdogs, as betting on them can sometimes yield higher returns
Conclusion
Hockey betting can be an exciting and rewarding experience for those who take the time to understand the game, the teams, and the various betting options available. By researching the teams, players, and betting strategies, you can improve your chances of making informed wagers and increase your chances of winning. Whether you’re betting on the NHL, international tournaments, or European leagues, the key is to be patient, manage your bankroll wisely, and always bet responsibly.
