NHL Betting FAQ
Everything you need to know about NHL betting, odds, and strategy.
The puck line is hockey's version of the point spread, set at 1.5 goals. The favorite must win by 2+ goals (-1.5), while the underdog can lose by 1 or win outright (+1.5). Because hockey is low-scoring, puck line odds vary significantly.
NHL moneylines are the most popular bet type. Pick the winner straight up. Favorites have negative odds (risk more to win less), underdogs have positive odds. NHL moneylines are typically tighter than other sports due to parity.
NHL totals are bets on combined goals scored. Most games are set around 5.5 or 6 goals. Overtime and shootout goals count for totals. Consider goalie matchups, back-to-backs, and team pace when betting totals.
Teams on the second night of a back-to-back often start backup goalies and show fatigue. Road back-to-backs are especially tough. Track which goalie is starting before betting.
Absolutely. Goalie matchups are crucial. Lines often move significantly when goalies are confirmed (usually morning of game). Backup goalies can swing lines 20-30 cents on the moneyline.
Long road trips, especially West-to-East travel, can impact performance. Teams ending 4+ game road trips often underperform. Also watch for teams flying in same-day for matinee games.
NHL lines move most after goalie confirmations (usually 10-11am ET), after morning skates reveal lineup changes, and when sharp bettors hit key numbers.
NHL has high parity, making underdogs historically profitable. Road underdogs and teams with starting goalies facing tired opponents often provide value. Avoid heavily juiced favorites.
Focus on Corsi/Fenwick (shot attempt metrics), expected goals (xG), save percentage, and power play/penalty kill efficiency. These underlying metrics predict future performance better than win-loss records.