NHL Betting Guide: Puck Lines and Totals Explained
This guide explains two of the most popular NHL betting options: the puck line and totals. Learn how to bet on hockey's version of the point spread and how to analyze factors that influence the total number of goals scored in a game.
NHL Betting Guide: Puck Lines and Totals Explained
Understanding the Basics of NHL Betting
Betting on the National Hockey League (NHL) offers a unique and exciting experience for sports bettors. Unlike basketball or football, where point spreads are the primary way to wager, hockey betting revolves around the moneyline, puck line, and totals. This guide will break down two of the most popular NHL betting options: the puck line and totals.
The Puck Line: Hockey's Version of the Point Spread
The puck line is hockey's equivalent of the point spread. However, unlike in football or basketball where the spread can vary greatly, the puck line is almost always set at -1.5 for the favorite and +1.5 for the underdog.
- Betting on the Favorite (-1.5): If you bet on the favorite at -1.5, they must win the game by two or more goals for your bet to cash. This is a great way to get better odds on a heavy favorite that you believe will win comfortably.
- Betting on the Underdog (+1.5): If you bet on the underdog at +1.5, they can either win the game outright or lose by a single goal, and your bet will be a winner. This provides a cushion for underdog bettors, but the odds will be lower than if you bet on them to win outright on the moneyline.
Example of a Puck Line Bet
Let's say the Boston Bruins are playing the Arizona Coyotes. The puck line might look something like this:
- Boston Bruins: -1.5 (+150)
- Arizona Coyotes: +1.5 (-180)
In this scenario, a $100 bet on the Bruins would win you $150 if they win by two or more goals. A $180 bet on the Coyotes would win you $100 if they win the game or lose by only one goal.
The Importance of Empty-Net Goals
One of the most exciting aspects of puck line betting is the impact of empty-net goals. In the final minutes of a game, a team that is trailing by one or two goals will often pull their goalie for an extra attacker. This creates a high-risk, high-reward situation that can have a major impact on the outcome of your puck line bet.
If the trailing team scores, they could tie the game or cut the deficit to one, potentially swinging the puck line in their favor. However, if the leading team scores an empty-net goal, they can extend their lead and cover the -1.5 puck line.
Totals (Over/Under): Betting on the Game's Scoring
Totals betting, also known as over/under betting, is another popular way to wager on the NHL. With totals betting, you are not concerned with which team wins the game. Instead, you are betting on the total number of goals scored by both teams combined.
Sportsbooks will set a total for each game, and you can bet on whether the final score will be over or under that number. For example, if the total for a game is set at 6.5 goals, you can bet on whether the combined score will be 7 or more goals (the over) or 6 or fewer goals (the under).
Factors to Consider When Betting Totals
Several factors can influence the total number of goals scored in an NHL game. Here are a few key things to consider before placing a totals bet:
- Goaltending: The starting goalies for each team are arguably the most important factor in totals betting. A matchup between two elite goalies is more likely to result in a low-scoring game, while a game with two backup goalies could be a high-scoring affair.
- Offensive and Defensive Efficiency: Look at each team's goals for and goals against per game. Teams with high-powered offenses and weak defenses are more likely to be involved in high-scoring games.
- Special Teams: Power plays and penalty kills can have a significant impact on the total. A team with a lethal power play can quickly drive up the score, while a team with a dominant penalty kill can keep the game low-scoring.
- Pace of Play: Some teams play a fast-paced, up-and-down style of hockey, while others prefer a more defensive, structured game. The pace of play can have a major impact on the number of scoring chances and, ultimately, the total number of goals scored.
Conclusion
Puck line and totals betting are two of the most popular and exciting ways to wager on the NHL. By understanding the nuances of each bet type and doing your research, you can find value in the NHL betting market and increase your chances of success. Remember to always gamble responsibly and never bet more than you can afford to lose.