Believe it or not, hockey is actually one of the most popular sports in the world. The number of hockey fans for the 30 NHL teams between the USA and Canada numbers well into the tens of millions; and that’s not including fans from Europe, Russia, and former Soviet Republics where hockey is almost a religion. In fact, some of the world’s best players emanate from Eastern Europe, mindful of the once closed Iron Curtain and grateful for the opportunity to play hockey in Canada or the USA on a professional team.
In addition to the NHL, there are many other exciting hockey leagues. The NHL farm team system offers casual hockey fans the opportunity to watch a live game in smaller cities for a very reasonable price. Collegiate level hockey is also extremely popular and is one of the breeding grounds for the world’s top players. Division 1-A hockey has a full season of action and playoff series, all of which are followed by hockey junkies around the nation and the world. There are also many alternative hockey leagues for semi-professional and junior level players. There are dozens in Canda alone.
Can I win betting on hockey?
Well that all depends on how well you can handicap a game. Smart hockey betting begins with knowing the intricacies of the game, following the box scores and injured list updates, and constantly watching as many games as possible. Like anything else, successful hockey betting is the result of practice, not luck. Any seasoned NHL bettor knows his or her teams inside and out, and can often predict plays and line changes before they actually execute on the rink.
Next, make sure you understand the odds placed on hockey games,
hockey events like the Stanley Cup Championship, and hockey futures bets. Unlike football or basketball, a small number of points are scored in hockey, making it akin to baseball or soccer. Therefore, most sportsbooks will offer money line odds on hockey action, total bets, and some spread betting if there appears to be a disparate matchup. Always know the numbers behind what you’re betting on. If you don’t understand the odds, you might as well be playing hockey without a helmet, and that’s just asking for trouble!
Finally, research what hockey leagues your sportsbook offers action on. Odds for NHL matchups are offered at sportsbooks around the world, while odds on college level games are local to the USA or Canada. During the Winter Olympics hockey betting is especially fierce as countries compete for the gold medal. Again, like the NHL, odds for international matchups and exhibitions will be offered at any first rate sportsbook.
Don’t forget to try out hockey futures bets or hockey prop betting. These alternatives to the money line or spread bet can be exciting and fun. As with money line and spread bets, know the odds you’re facing. Props and futures bets are big money makers for sportsbooks because the odds are often not in the player’s favor. Pick your bets wisely and you’ll walk away a winner.
Don’t get stuck in the penalty box: bet with your head, not over it!