Types of NHL Betting Markets
Hockey betting markets encompass various options for bettors to consider. These markets allow individuals to wager on different aspects of hockey games, from simple outcomes to more complex scenarios.
Money Line Betting
Money line betting is a straightforward form of NHL betting. In this market, bettors wager on which team will win the game outright.
For example, a bettor might place a money line bet on the Boston Bruins to defeat the New York Rangers. The odds for each team reflect their perceived likelihood of winning.
Spread Betting – Puck Line Betting
Puck line betting is the hockey equivalent of point spread betting in other sports. The standard puck line is typically set at 1.5 goals.
This means the favored team must win by more than 1.5 goals for bets on them to pay out, while the underdog can lose by up to one goal and still result in a winning bet for their backers.
Over/Under Betting – Totals Betting
Totals betting, also known as over/under betting, focuses on the combined number of goals scored by both teams in a game.
Sportsbooks set a line, and bettors wager on whether the actual total will be over or under that number.
For instance, if the total is set at 5.5 goals for a game between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers, bettors can wager on whether the combined score will exceed or fall short of this number.
Effective Hockey Betting Strategies
Successful NHL betting requires a combination of knowledge, analysis, and strategy. Bettors should consider various factors when making their bets.
Current Form and Schedules
A team's recent performance and upcoming schedule can significantly impact their play.
For example, a team on a long winning streak might be more likely to continue their success, while a team facing several games in quick succession may struggle with fatigue.
Analytics: Corsi, Fenwick, and Expected Goals
Advanced analytics play a crucial role in modern hockey analysis.
Metrics such as Corsi (shot attempt differential), Fenwick (unblocked shot attempt differential), and Expected Goals (a statistic based on the location of shots and how many goals would score from those places on average) provide insights into team and player performance beyond traditional statistics.
Injuries, Line Movement, and Referees
Keeping track of player injuries, line movements, and referee assignments can provide valuable information for hockey betting.
A key player's absence can significantly affect a team's performance, while line movements may indicate where the money is being placed.
