NHL Sportsbooks 2025

Not all sportsbooks treat NHL bettors the same. Find the perfect sportsbook for your NHL betting

NHL Betting

Let’s call it like it is- hockey’s not the biggest betting market in the U.S. - but it might be the most slept on.

Between the pace of play, the tight margins, and the wild swings that come with every odd-man rush, NHL betting can be one of the sharpest plays on the board - especially if you know where to bet. And with legal sportsbooks now live in over 30 states, there’s never been a better time to take that edge onto the ice.

The best part? You don’t need to be a hardcore fan or a betting veteran to get started. We’ll walk you through the best promos, which platforms treat NHL bettors right, and how to start betting smart from Day One. Let’s drop the puck.

First things first: not all sportsbooks treat NHL bettors the same.

JD Daniels
JD Daniels - Senior Sportsbook Analyst

Some books throw you the same boost every Thursday and call it a day. Others actually give you sharp lines, solid prop depth, and same-game parlay options that don’t feel like an afterthought. We’ve reviewed all the major legal U.S. books - DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, the works - and ranked them specifically through the lens of hockey bettors. Whether you’re grinding long shots or just want a clean app with good promos, we’ll show you the best options where to play.

In this page you’ll also find guides to NHL bet types, breakdowns of hockey-specific promos, and tips for betting on hockey like a vet. Doesn’t matter if you’re just getting into hockey betting or you’ve been riding puck lines since the Coyotes were still in Phoenix - this is where you find your edge. Let’s get to it!

21+. Bet Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Our Top 10 Sportsbooks for NHL Betting
Sportsbook Bonus States App Store RatingAction
#1
bet365
4.5/5
Bet $5, Get $150 or
$1,000 First Bet Safety Net
States
VA
PA
OH
+10
App Store Rating
4.8 / 5
#2
FanDuel Sportsbook bonus
FanDuel Sportsbook bonus
FanDuel Sportsbook
4.7/5
Bet $5, Win $250 in Bonus Bets
States
NY
VA
PA
+20
App Store Rating
4.9 / 5
#3
Fanatics Sportsbook bonus
Fanatics Sportsbook bonus
Fanatics Sportsbook
4.4/5
Bet $30, Get $300 or Up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets
States
NY
VA
PA
+20
App Store Rating
4.8 / 5
#4
Caesars Sportsbook bonus
Caesars Sportsbook bonus
Caesars Sportsbook
4.7/5
Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Bets
States
NY
VA
PA
+19
App Store Rating
4.7 / 5
#5
DraftKings Sportsbook bonus
DraftKings Sportsbook bonus
DraftKings Sportsbook
4.6/5
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly
States
NY
VA
PA
+23
App Store Rating
4.8 / 5
#6
BetMGM bonus
BetMGM bonus
BetMGM
4.4/5
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets
if Your First Bet Doesn't Win
States
NY
VA
PA
+18
App Store Rating
4.8 / 5
#7
BetRivers bonus
BetRivers bonus
BetRivers
3.7/5
2nd Chance Bet up to $500
States
NY
VA
PA
+11
App Store Rating
4.9 / 5
#8
Sporttrade bonus
Sporttrade bonus
Sporttrade
3.9/5
Cash Back up to $100
Promo Code: SBOST
States
VA
CO
AZ
+2
App Store Rating
4.7 / 5
#9
Hard Rock Bet bonus
Hard Rock Bet bonus
Hard Rock Bet
4.1/5
Get up to $100 in Bonus Bets Back if Your First Bet Doesn't Win
States
FL
VA
OH
+6
App Store Rating
4.9 / 5
#10
Desert Diamond Sports bonus
Desert Diamond Sports bonus
Desert Diamond Sports
3.3/5
100% Deposit Match up to $250
States
AZ
App Store Rating
2.6 / 5

NHL Betting FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the best NHL betting sites in the US

⚖️ Is it legal to bet on the NHL?

Yes, it is legal to bet on the NHL in any U.S. state where sports betting is regulated. Licensed online sportsbooks and retail betting locations offer NHL betting markets, including moneylines, puck lines, totals, and props. Always make sure you're using a legal, state-approved sportsbook.

Which hockey betting site is the best?

The best hockey betting site depends on your preferences, but FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM consistently rank at the top for NHL betting due to their competitive odds, live betting options, and wide range of markets.

For those seeking value in props and promos, Fanatics Sportsbook is also gaining ground with many users - especially thanks to their fantastic Fanatics Fair Play policy.

What kind of hockey bets are there?

Hockey betting markets include moneylines, puck lines, over/unders, period bets, player props (like goal scorers or assists), team totals, and futures bets such as Stanley Cup winner or division champs.

Many sportsbooks also offer live betting and same-game parlays on NHL matchups.

You can learn more about NHL betting markets here.

What is the best NHL sportsbook for beginners?

DraftKings Sportsbook is your best bet if you’re completely new to NHL betting. The app is clean, the bet types are easy to find, and they offer a ton of NHL props without making things feel overwhelming. You’ll also get steady promos and one of the better low-risk welcome bonuses in the game.

Plus, they’ve got solid educational tools baked into the platform. If you’re learning the ropes, this platform is known for being the one that will do the most hand holding.

What are the best hockey betting apps?

In our opinion, the best hockey betting apps in the U.S. are Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook, thanks to their user-friendly interfaces, fast live betting, and broad NHL market coverage. Bet365, BetMGM and Caesars also offer excellent hockey betting apps with unique features and promos.

Can you live bet on the NHL?

Yes, live betting on NHL games is widely available at top sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers. You can place in-game wagers on updated moneylines, next goal, period results, and player props, making live NHL betting one of the most exciting ways to engage with hockey games.

Which sportsbook has the best NHL odds?

No single sportsbook always has the best NHL odds, so sharp bettors often line shop between multiple sportsbooks for consistent value. Odds can vary between operators, so using many books like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars to shop for the best NHL lines is recommended for maximizing payouts.

That being said, if you are lucky enough to be in one of the states that Sporttrade operates in, then we highly recommend checking their offering. Since they are a betting exchange rather than a sportsbook, they usually have much lower juice than their competitors - meaning you can usually get the best prices there.

Is it legal to bet on NHL games in my state?

That depends on where you live! Sports betting is legal in over 30 states now, but every one has its own rules - some allow mobile apps, others only have retail sportsbooks, and a few are still stuck in the mud.

Even then, in states where there is no legal online sports betting, there are still alternative betting options for would-be NHL bettors, such as Social Sportsbooks, DFS sites and Prediction Markets, which use different betting formats that are legal to use in practically every state.

Want to know exactly what’s legal in your state? Check out our State-by-State Betting Guide for a full breakdown of where you can bet on NHL games right now - and how.

What are the best NHL sportsbooks in the US?

Not every sportsbook is built the same - and that matters when you’re betting hockey.

Some books shine with deep prop markets. Others hook you in with flashy promos or live NHL streaming. The right fit depends on how you like to play. Are you chasing value on puck lines? Looking for player props every night? Or just want a clean app that pays out fast? The truth is, no single book does everything perfectly - each has its strengths, weaknesses, and quirks.

The trick is knowing what matters to you - props, promos, sharp lines - and choosing a sportsbook that actually delivers on that front.

Below, we’ve broken down the best NHL sportsbooks in the U.S. - legal, licensed, and reviewed with hockey betting specifically in mind.

✅ What Our Experts Look For in NHL Sportsbooks:

  • Early and consistent NHL odds - Books that post lines before everyone else earn points.
  • Depth of NHL markets - Player props, team props, alt lines, and period-specific options.
  • Same-game parlay flexibility - Can you actually build creative, useful SGPs - or just basic combos?
  • Live betting experience - Fast updates, reliable cashouts, and a clean in-game interface.
  • NHL-specific promos - Ongoing boosts, bet insurance, or team-based offers that cater to hockey fans.
  • Mobile app quality - Smooth, clean, and responsive interface - especially during live games when timing matters most.
  • Fair pricing - Competitive odds, especially on puck lines and totals.
  • Customer support & transparency – Quick help when things go wrong, and no payout runarounds.

What Makes a Great NHL Sportsbook?

Cole Redding
Cole Redding - Editor-in-Chief

Let’s be honest: Hockey doesn’t always get the spotlight when it comes to sports betting. That’s exactly why it’s worth paying attention to how a sportsbook treats NHL bettors. Some platforms go all-in with deep prop markets, flexible parlays, and steady promo support. Others, frankly, feel like they just copy/paste what they do for football and hope we don’t notice. But hockey’s a completely different game, and a great NHL sportsbook understands that.

When we review sportsbooks, we look for more than just a big welcome bonus or a sleek app (though those don’t hurt). We’re checking how fast NHL odds are posted. How many player props are actually available. Whether the book lets you build same-game parlays with meaningful options - not just first period over/unders and a moneyline. We look at live betting performance, mobile UX, odds competitiveness, and even how often NHL games get featured promos compared to other leagues.

But just as important is the feel of the place. Is it built for casual fans who want to follow their team? Is it friendly to line shoppers hunting for value on the puck line? Is the platform responsive when there’s a dispute or payout delay? Those are things that matter to real bettors. At the end of the day, a great NHL sportsbook is one that shows up for hockey bettors - not just in April, but all season long.

Top NHL Sportsbooks by Category

🏒 Category🏆 Sportsbook
Best for Serious Bettorsbet365
Best All-Around ExperienceFanDuel Sportsbook
Best for Casual BettorsFanatics Sportsbook
Best for NHL FuturesCaesars Sportsbook
Best for PropsDraftKings Sportsbook
Best for Live BettingBetMGM
Best for Totals BettorsBetRivers

Best Hockey Sportsbooks by Type

Bet365 NHL Betting

Our pick for Best Hockey Sportsbook

✅ Early lines and wide market depth for NHL
✅ Sharp pricing on puck lines and totals
✅ Strong alt-line and period-based prop selection
✅ Exceptional live betting experience
✅ Exceptional Welcome Promos

No loyalty program
Interface can feel clunky to new users

If you're betting hockey nightly and care more about value than bells and whistles, bet365 is the book you want in your corner. They post NHL lines earlier than most, including alt puck lines and period-specific totals that other books don’t even bother with. Their odds are sharp, especially on puck lines and totals, and they rarely lag behind the market.

Same-game parlay options are deeper than they look, and while the app interface isn’t flashy, it’s fast and reliable- especially when it comes to live betting. bet365 doesn’t chase casual users with gimmicks. It’s built for bettors who know what they’re looking for and want tools that actually work.

FanDuel NHL Betting

Best All-Around Experience

✅ Easiest same-game parlay builder for NHL
✅ Strong live betting with fast, reliable interface
✅ Regular NHL-specific boosts during season
✅ Clean mobile app that runs without hiccups
✅ Live Streaming on select NHL games

Odds aren’t always the sharpest
Rewards program is barebones

FanDuel Sportsbook makes NHL betting feel smooth, fast, and built for all sorts of players - not just sharps or spreadsheet grinders. Their best-in-show same-game parlay builder works flawlessly with NHL markets, and they’ve really stepped up on player props and live betting tools.

FanDuel's interface is easy to navigate, cashouts are fast, and you’ll find consistent promos tied to big hockey nights. Not always the best odds in the room, but for overall experience, it’s tough to beat.

Fanatics NHL Betting

Best for Casual Bettors

✅ Unique merch-based rewards program
✅ Tons of team-based promos geared toward fans
✅ Simple, user-friendly interface
✅ Solid pricing on mainlines and parlays
✅ Will void losing player props if player is injured in 1st period

Still building out prop and SGP depth
No live streaming or advanced features currently available

Fanatics is the new kid on the block, but they’re not messing around - especially for hockey fans who follow a team closely. Their sportsbook leans heavily into fandom, with team-specific promos, a reward program tied to real merch (including NHL gear), and tons of recurring No Sweat Bets and Bet & Get offers that feel more personalized than most books.

A standout feature is their Fanatics Fair Play policy, which provides bettors with a safety net for player prop bets. If a player exits a game within the first period due to injury and doesn't return, Fanatics will void or refund the affected bets. This policy applies to straight bets, parlays, and same-game parlays, offering a level of protection that other competitors don't provide.

Odds are competitive, and the app’s one of the cleanest and easiest to use. While their NHL market depth is still growing, but they’re clearly putting resources into making hockey part of their core.

Caesars NHL Betting

Best for NHL Promos and Futures

✅ Great odds variety for futures and longshots
✅ Generous rewards program that earns hotel stays, dining, and other perks
✅ Consistent NHL promos and a top-tier sign up bonus
✅ Trusted brand with solid customer support

Player prop depth can be hit-or-miss
Same-game parlay options are somewhat limited
App performance can be laggy on busy nights

Caesars Sportsbook offers a comprehensive NHL betting experience, particularly excelling in futures markets and NHL promos. They regularly roll out NHL odds boosts, no sweat bets, and profit boosts - especially during playoff time.

The app and website are incredibly intuitive and easy to navigate, making the betting experience smoother for both new and experienced users.

Additionally, Caesars' partnership with the NHL grants them access to league branding and content, enriching the user experience with official team logos and league-specific promotions.

DraftKings NHL Betting

Best for NHL Props

✅ Best NHL prop selection on the market
✅ Creative and deep same-game parlay options
✅ Top-tier microbetting features for real-time engagement
✅ Great mobile UX for customizing bets

Odds could be sharper
Rewards system lacks real punch

If you’re the kind of bettor who likes to dive into shots on goal, first-period goals, or whether a fourth-line winger will log a point, DraftKings is your spot. Their NHL player prop menu is deeper than anyone else's, and their SGP options give FanDuel and BetMGM a run for their money.

A notable feature is DraftKings' microbetting capabilities. Through its partnership with Simplebet, DraftKings offers real-time betting opportunities on specific in-game events, such as the outcome of the next faceoff or the result of a power play.

They also run a steady stream of NHL promos - nothing earth-shattering, but usually offering solid value. The interface can get a little cluttered for some tastes - especially on desktop - but what you’re getting in market variety more than makes up for it.

BetMGM NHL Betting

Best for Live Betting

✅ Strongest live betting and in-game tools for NHL
✅ “Edit My Bet” and Cash Out features
✅ Competitive odds on in-play puck lines and totals

Pre-game props are limited
Promo schedule isn’t as aggressive

BetMGM’s edge is what happens after puck drop. Their live betting platform is fast, flexible, and comes with live streaming on select NHL games - a feature which gives you a big advantage when timing matters most.

They’ve also got solid alt-line offerings and the unique “Edit My Bet” feature, which is a nice safety net if your read shifts mid-game. Their prop depth isn’t quite DraftKings-level, but for live action, they’re hard to beat.

BetMGM NHL Betting

Best for Totals Bettors

✅ Early NHL lines with sharp pricing
✅ Strong value on totals and puck lines
✅ Live streaming available for select games
✅ Less market movement compared to big-name books

App is dated and not super mobile-friendly
Limited NHL-specific promos

BetRivers doesn’t get as much hype as the leading brands, but serious bettors know it’s one of the better books for squeezing value out of NHL lines.

They post early, offer fair pricing on totals and puck lines, and often carry reduced juice where others don’t. Same-game parlays are improving, and their odds tend to hold up longer before market movement. It’s not built for flash, but if you’re a line shopper or a totals grinder, this book quietly delivers more value than you’d think. Underrated, but solid.

Top Welcome Bonuses for NHL Betting

Promos won’t make you a sharp bettor, but choosing the right one can certainly give you a better start.

Whether you’re signing up for your first sportsbook or just adding another book to the rotation, grabbing a welcome offer is a no-brainer. Some promos are built for high rollers. Others let you get started with a low deposit and still walk away with a solid bonus bet balance. The key is knowing what’s out there - and what type of bonus fits the way you like to play.

In this section, we’ve rounded up the top welcome bonuses for NHL betting. No Sweat Bets, Bet & Get promos, Cash backs - you’ll find all the best deals here, from the top-ranked U.S. sportsbooks. If you’re ready to drop the puck, these offers are a solid first move.

21+. Bet Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Best Betting Bonuses for NHL
Sportsbook BonusAction
#1
bet365
4.5/5
Bet $5, Get $150 or
$1,000 First Bet Safety Net
#2
FanDuel Sportsbook bonus
FanDuel Sportsbook bonus
FanDuel Sportsbook
4.7/5
Bet $5, Win $250 in Bonus Bets
#3
Fanatics Sportsbook bonus
Fanatics Sportsbook bonus
Fanatics Sportsbook
4.4/5
Bet $30, Get $300 or Up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets
#4
Caesars Sportsbook bonus
Caesars Sportsbook bonus
Caesars Sportsbook
4.7/5
Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Bets
#5
DraftKings Sportsbook bonus
DraftKings Sportsbook bonus
DraftKings Sportsbook
4.6/5
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly
#6
BetMGM bonus
BetMGM bonus
BetMGM
4.4/5
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets
if Your First Bet Doesn't Win
#7
BetRivers bonus
BetRivers bonus
BetRivers
3.7/5
2nd Chance Bet up to $500
#8
Sporttrade bonus
Sporttrade bonus
Sporttrade
3.9/5
Cash Back up to $100
Promo Code: SBOST
#9
Hard Rock Bet bonus
Hard Rock Bet bonus
Hard Rock Bet
4.1/5
Get up to $100 in Bonus Bets Back if Your First Bet Doesn't Win
#10
Desert Diamond Sports bonus
Desert Diamond Sports bonus
Desert Diamond Sports
3.3/5
100% Deposit Match up to $250
#11
Borgata Sportsbook bonus
Borgata Sportsbook bonus
Borgata Sportsbook
3.6/5
Bet $20, Get $100
Sportsbook Only Available in NJ
#12
Crab Sports bonus
Crab Sports bonus
Crab Sports
3.3/5
First Bet Insurance up to $500

NHL Betting Apps

Let’s be real: If you’re betting on hockey, chances are you're doing it from your phone. Whether you’re couch-locked for a Wednesday night puck drop or catching a few shifts between drinks at the bar, the days of logging in on desktop are mostly over. That’s why your betting app matters as much as the book itself. These days your betting app is your playbook, and a clunky one can cost you bets, time, or even worse: money.

The good news? Every legal sportsbook has a mobile app. The bad news? Some of them feel like they were built in 2012, burying key features behind layers of menus or lagging when it matters most.

If you’re betting live, shopping lines, or firing off props in real time, you need an app that can keep up with the pace of the game - not one that freezes when it’s 3–3 with two minutes to go.

NHL betting apps

Most major sportsbooks offer a fantastic NHL app betting experience these days

What to look for in a NHL betting app

If you’re trying to decide between betting apps, these are the main factors you should be paying attention to:

    Navigation & Design

    A well-designed app isn’t just about looks, but rather about usability. Clean layout, quick access to bet types, logical organization, and ease of creating complex bets make all the difference. FanDuel Sportsbook nails this. Their NHL markets are front and center, same-game parlays are easy to build, and stats are surfaced in the right place at the right time. The design’s sharp, but more importantly, it works the way you expect it to.

    Speed & Reliability

    Live betting moves fast. In a fast paced game like hockey, one delayed screen refresh and your odds are gone. BetMGM and bet365 do a great job here, their in-play betting interface is stable, responsive, and refreshes quickly, even during high-traffic games. You won’t get frozen out in a crucial moment, and odds usually stay live long enough to lock in your read.

    In-App Stats & Smart Features

    Some apps do more than just take your bet: They help you place better ones. DraftKings stands out for its integrated stats hub, giving bettors access to player trends, recent performance, and matchup data without needing a second screen. Their app also suggests relevant props and bet types based on what you’ve bet before, which can be really helpful if you’re learning the ropes or building out your strategy.

    Market Depth & Customization

    If you want to bet shots, blocks, team totals by period, or mix up your puck lines, you need an app with range. bet365 is quietly excellent here. They often post NHL lines earlier than other books, and the alt-line selection goes deeper than most. The interface is a bit utilitarian, but once you learn it, the flexibility is top-tier - especially for bettors who like control.

    The Smart Bettor’s Guide to Choosing an NHL Betting App

    JD Daniels
    JD Daniels - Senior Sportsbook Analyst

    Look - I personally don’t care how good the odds are if the app freezes every time I try to live bet a power play. And I’m not wasting time clicking through six menus just to find a shots-on-goal prop.

    Your app isn’t just where you bet - it’s how you bet.

    If you’re serious about finding value, timing matters. Layout matters. Speed matters. A good app gets out of the way and lets you lock in a line the second you see it. A bad one? You’re watching the wheel spin while the odds shift right past you or your opportunity to cash out vanishes.

    Whether you’re new to hockey betting or deep into matchup data, don’t overlook the platform. A clean, fast app helps you make sharper calls, shop smarter, and stay in the game when it moves fast.

    So yeah - choose the book with the bonus or the live streaming... but stay for the one with the app that actually works.

    NHL Betting Apps - User Ratings bet365 FanDuel Sportsbook Fanatics Sportsbook Caesars Sportsbook DraftKings Sportsbook BetMGM BetRivers
    App Store4.84.94.84.74.84.84.9
    Google Play4.64.74.74.44.64.34.6

    NHL Betting Markets: What You Need to Know

    If you’re new to hockey betting, don’t sweat it - most of the basics are easier than you think. The NHL has a few quirks like the puck line and OT rules, but once you get a handle on the main bet types, you’ll be reading the board like a vet.

    This section walks you through the core NHL betting markets: What they are, how they work, and where you might find an edge. Whether you’re just looking to bet your favorite team on a Saturday night or you're hoping to find value in a goalie-heavy under, it all starts with understanding the types of bets on the table.

    🧾 Moneyline Bets: Picking the Outright Winner

    The most straightforward type of NHL bet, with Moneylines you’re just picking who wins the game. No point spreads, no extra conditions. If the Devils are listed at -140 and the Rangers at +120, that means the Devils are the favorite. You’d have to bet $140 to win $100 on the Devils, or bet $100 to win $120 on the underdog Rangers.

    Easy, right? But there are a few things to know as NHL moneylines come with quirks.. Hockey games often go to overtime or shootouts, so these moneyline odds include any kind of win - whether it's in regulation, OT, or a shootout. You might also see a “regulation only” option, which pays more but only wins if your team closes it out in 60 minutes.

    Smart bettors will want to look at more than just team records. Backup goalies, travel fatigue, and recent form can all swing a game - and the moneyline. So while this is the entry-level bet, there’s still plenty of room to outthink the market.

    Advantages with NHL moneyline betting 👍

    • Always on the board - Every book. Every game. It’s the first line they post.
    • Easy for beginners - No spreads, no gimmicks - just pick the winner. As straightforward as it gets.

    Disadvantages with NHL moneyline betting 👎

    • Tighter odds, less value - Especially for high-profile games, sportsbooks dial these lines in. Edges are small unless you’re early or sharp.
    • Limited upside on favorites - Heavy favorites don’t pay much. Laying -250 to win $100 on a contender? One bad bounce and you’re cooked.
    • OT can burn you - Moneylines include overtime and shootouts, which adds randomness. One fluke goal and you're on the wrong end of a good bet.

    How to calculate NHL moneyline bets

    Nate Lin
    Nate Lin - DFS Specialist & Sports Analytics Lead

    If you're new to NHL betting, moneyline odds might look confusing. However, the math behind them is actually quite simple once you know which direction you're working from. Here’s how to calculate exactly what you’ll win depending on whether you’re betting on an underdog or a favorite.

    🟩 Underdog Example: +150 Odds

    Let’s say you put $50 on the New York Rangers at +150.

    Here’s how you calculate your payout:

    Winnings = (Stake × Odds) ÷ 100
    Winnings = ($50 × 150) ÷ 100
    Winnings = $75 profit
    So you’d get $125 total back: Your $75 win plus your $50 stake.

    🟥 Favorite Example: -200 Odds

    Now let’s flip it. You put $50 on a favorite at -200.

    This time, the formula changes slightly:

    Winnings = (Stake ÷ Odds) × 100
    Winnings = ($50 ÷ 200) × 100
    Winnings = $25 profit
    That’s $75 total returned: Your $25 win and your original $50 bet.

    With plus-money bets, you’re risking less to win more. With minus-money, you're risking more to win less. The trade-off is that favorites are more likely to win. But not always - especially in hockey. Bankroll discipline matters either way.

    🥅 Puck Line Bets: Betting the 1.5-Goal Spread

    The Puck Line is hockey’s version of a point spread. One team is usually fixed at -1.5, meaning they have to win by two or more. The other is +1.5, meaning they can win outright or just lose by a single goal and you will still cash.

    The puck line can offer better value than the moneyline, especially with big favorites. But don’t assume blowouts - NHL games are tight, and empty-netters can swing these late. Know the matchup and goalie tendencies. This isn’t the NBA. Winning by two goals in the NHL doesn’t happen nearly as often as you’d think.

    Some books offer a 3-way puck line or regulation line combo, which isn’t the same as the standard puck line, so make sure you know what you’re betting.

    An example of an NHL puckline

    The Washington Capitals are given a moneyline of -200 and the New York Rangers are given a moneyline of +150.

    This means that the Washington Capitals are favourites, so a puck line bet could look like this

    Washington Capitals -1.5 (+180) New York Rangers +1.5 (-140)

    Here you can see that to win the bet, Washington Capitals must win by 2 goals to win the bet.

    Say then, you still back the original favourites, The Washington Capitals (now the underdogs) with a $10 wager. This could result in two possible outcomes:

    1. The Washington Capitals win by two goals or more. You receive your original $10 wager back and $18 in winnings.
    2. The Washington Capitals win by one goal, the game ends as a draw or The New York Rangers win. The sportsbook wins.

    🔢 Over/Under (Totals): Betting on Goals

    Totals - or "Over/Unders" - are bets on how many goals both teams will score combined in a game. Doesn’t matter who wins or loses. If the line is set at 6.5, you’re betting whether the final score adds up to 7 or more goals (Over) or 6 or fewer (Under).

    For example, if the Oilers beat the Flames 4–3, that’s 7 goals total - so the Over hits. But if it ends 3–2, that’s just 5 goals, so you’re cashing the Under.

    Most NHL totals fall between 5.5 and 6.5, depending on the teams, starting goalies, and how explosive the offenses are. High-scoring teams might push the line to 7, while defensive grinders or elite goaltending matchups might bring it down to 5.5.

    Totals are beginner-friendly, but don’t let that fool you - they’re sharp markets. The lines are tight, and half a goal makes all the difference. If you’re playing the Over, root for chaos. If you’re on the Under, pray for clean zone exits and frozen pucks.

    Bonus tip: be careful betting overs just because a team scores a lot. If their opponent can’t contribute, it still might not hit.

    An example of an NHL total

    The Boston Bruins are playing the Maple Leafs. You have studied their head to head record and their current goalscoring stats and decided that this will be a high scoring game. The totals offered are:

    • Boston Bruins vs. Maple Leafs over 5.5 (-110)
    • Boston Bruins vs. Maple Leafs under 5.5 (-110)
    • The bookies remain undecided and have offered the same odds for both potential over/under scores. You place $10 on over 5.5 goals.

    There are two possible outcomes to your bet:

    1. There are over 5 goals in the game. You get your original $10 returned and $9.09 in winnings. $19.09 in total.
    2. There are 5 goals or under in the game. The sportsbook wins.

    🎯 Prop Bets: Betting on Players and Stats

    Prop bets - short for “proposition bets” - let you wager on specific outcomes inside the game that don’t necessarily involve the final score. Will Auston Matthews score a goal? Will Connor McDavid get 2+ points? You can also bet on goalie saves, total shots on goal, and team-specific stats like faceoff wins.

    Props are great for casual bettors who know a particular team or player inside and out, and they can be fun if you’re watching the game live. Books don’t always sharpen these lines as quickly as they are harder to model than moneylines or totals, so if you follow player trends and ice time you can usually find an edge. Just keep in mind: these markets move fast - especially after injury news drops.

    Common types of NHL props:

    • Anytime Goal Scorer - Bet on a player to score anytime during the game

    • Shots on Goal (SOG) - Total shots a player takes. Good for volume shooters like David Pastrnak or Tkachuk.

    • Points/Assists - Will a player register at least one point (goal or assist), or maybe hit 2+?

    • Goalie Props - Total saves made. This can offer value in lopsided matchups where a goalie sees a ton of rubber.

    🏆 Futures: Long-Term Hockey Bets

    These are the long plays - Stanley Cup winners, division champs, player awards like the Hart or Vezina. Much like the stock market, with futures you’re not betting on a single night - you’re betting on how the season shakes out.

    Futures can be fun and profitable if you get in early before the market adjusts. Maybe you spot a breakout team before the books do, or grab a goalie with crazy numbers at long odds. But it ties up your money for months, so don’t overload. And always compare odds across books - they vary more than you’d think.

    NHL Live Betting

    Live betting lets you jump in after the puck drops. Odds shift constantly based on momentum, goals, power plays - you name it. If you’re watching the game and know what you’re looking for, it can be gold.

    Let’s say the Penguins go down 2–0 in the first period, but they’ve outshot the other team 12–3 and hit two posts. Books might shift the live moneyline in favor of the other side, but you see the ice tilt. That’s the value of live betting, it lets you bet on momentum.

    If you are good at spotting momentum, you will find plenty of opportunity there. Just be quick, as books adjust fast and the juice can be brutal if you're chasing. Live Betting is best used when you’ve got eyes on the game and a feel for the flow. Otherwise, you’re just guessing on lagging data.

    What to Look for in a Great NHL Live Betting Platform

    JD Daniels
    JD Daniels - Senior Sportsbook Analyst

    Not all live betting platforms are created equal. Some update odds smoothly and let you fire off a wager in seconds. Others feel like trying to place a bet through a straw.

    Here’s what actually matters:

    Speed & Stability

    • Odds need to update fast and your bet should get accepted without delays. If you’re stuck watching a spinning wheel while the line moves again, that’s not a usable book.

    • NHL live odds are volatile. One missed shot, one penalty, and the numbers shift. You need a platform that keeps up.

    📺 Live Visualization or Streaming

    • If you can’t watch the game on TV, some books offer live animations, puck possession graphics, or even embedded game streams. That’s a major bonus if you're betting on feel.

    • FanDuel and BetRivers often offer live NHL streams directly on their platform, while other books like bet365, Caesars and BetMGM tend to be stronger on real-time visuals.

    🧮 Market Variety

    • A solid book doesn’t just give you the live moneyline. Look for team totals, next goal props, power play outcomes, and in-game SGP options.

    • Some betting sites even offer microbetting markets like the outcome of the next faceoff. DraftKings leads the pack in this category.

    🛡 Fast Cashouts

    • You need to know what you’re getting when you hit that cashout button. Good platforms offer real-time cashout offers during the game - not delayed ones that disappear mid-bet.

    📱 Mobile Experience

    • Live betting often happens on your phone while watching the game. If the app lags, crashes, or makes it hard to find in-play markets, that’s a hard no.