How to Bet on the NHL

As one of the oldest professional sports in the world, the NHL also has a rich history of sports betting. At RG, we’re committed to providing you with an NHL Betting guide tailored for both the US and Canadian betting markets. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or new to the rink, our guide will take you through every aspect of NHL betting, from understanding the odds to making informed wagers.

We'll dive into the nuances of legal online sportsbooks, explore user-friendly sportsbook apps, and share strategic insights to enhance your betting experience. Our guide isn't just about placing bets; it's about understanding the game, the teams, and the odds to make every bet count.

Remember, while we revel in the thrill of the game, our priority remains your safety and informed decision-making. 

Making informed NHL bets requires a solid understanding of its fundamentals. This section aims to introduce you to the core concepts of NHL betting, including the various types of bets such as Moneyline, Puck Line, and Totals. We'll also clarify how odds work and how payouts are determined. Whether you're new to the rink or looking to refine your betting strategies, this primer is your first step towards making informed and responsible wagers in the exciting world of NHL hockey.

Types of NHL Bets:

1. Choosing a Sportsbook: Start by selecting a sportsbook from RG's Top Rated US Sportsbook reviews. Consider factors like user experience, betting options, bonuses, and customer service.
2. Signing Up at the Sportsbook: Create an account by providing the necessary information. Ensure you meet all legal requirements, such as being of legal betting age and within a state where sports betting is legal.
3. Making a Deposit: Fund your account using the available deposit methods. Look for options that suit your preferences in terms of transaction speed, fees, and security.
4. Choosing the Bet: Navigate the sportsbook's NHL section. Familiarize yourself with the available bets, including moneyline, puck line, totals, and props.
5. Placing and Paying for the Bet: Once you've made your selection, enter the amount you wish to wager and confirm your bet. Ensure you're betting within your budget and following responsible gambling practices.

Odds in NHL betting are typically in American format. Positive numbers show the potential winnings on a $100 bet, while negative numbers indicate how much you need to bet to win $100. For instance, if the Vegas Golden Knights are -200 against the San Jose Sharks, you need to bet $200 to win $100. Conversely, if the Sharks are +170, a $100 bet would win you $170.

Understanding these basics is essential for responsible gambling. It ensures you are making educated bets, aligned with your knowledge of the sport and your financial comfort. Remember, betting should always add to the enjoyment of the game, not detract from it.

As a responsible gambler, it's important to understand these basics to make educated decisions. Betting should always be an enjoyable activity, aligned with your knowledge of the game and your financial comfort zone.

NHL betting, like the sport itself, requires a blend of skill, strategy, and awareness of the game's nuances. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, understanding effective betting strategies is crucial.

Basic Betting Strategies for Beginners

Moneyline Bets: For those new to NHL betting, starting with moneyline bets is advisable. They are straightforward and a great way to get accustomed to the betting process.

• Follow the Form: Pay attention to the recent performances of teams. A team on a winning streak might be a safer bet, but remember, underdogs can offer value.
• Mind the Goalies: The starting goalie can significantly impact a game's outcome. Always check which goalie is starting before placing your bet.
• Home Ice Advantage: Consider the home-ice factor. Teams often perform better at home, so factor this into your betting decisions.

Advanced Strategies for Experienced Bettors

• Puck Line Bets: Once comfortable with moneylines, explore puck line bets. This requires understanding the teams' playing styles and their ability to win by multiple goals or keep the game close.
• Live Betting: This involves betting on games as they happen. It requires quick decision-making and the ability to read the game's flow. If a strong team is down early but playing well, they might be a good bet to come back.
• Hedging Your Bets: This strategy involves placing bets on different outcomes to guarantee a profit or minimize potential losses. For instance, if you have a futures bet on the Pittsburgh Penguins to win the Stanley Cup, you might bet against them in individual playoff games to ensure some return.

Importance of NHL-Specific Variables

• Team Performance Trends: Look for trends like how a team performs on back-to-back nights or at the end of a long road trip.
• Special Teams: Pay attention to teams' power play and penalty kill percentages. Strong special teams can be a critical factor in a team's success.
• Weather and Travel: These can affect players' performance, especially for outdoor games or during grueling travel schedules.

Understanding Injury Reports, Line Movements, and Referee Impact

In NHL betting, certain elements can significantly influence the outcome of a game and, consequently, your betting success:

1. Injury Reports: The health and availability of players, especially key ones, can dramatically alter a team's performance. Regularly check injury reports to stay updated on player statuses. 
2. Line Movement: This refers to the changes in betting lines set by sportsbooks. It's important to understand why lines move, as they can indicate factors like injuries, public betting trends, or even insider information.
3. Referee Impact: Different referees can have varying styles that may affect the game's flow and the number of penalties called. Understanding a referee's tendencies can offer insights into how a game might be officiated.