Whether you’re betting on the NHL, NCAA or any other sport, you’ll want to know what does any other score mean. The number is an important part of hockey betting, but how does it compare to the other bets on the board? A puck line and an over/under are the main ways to bet on the game, but there are other options that may be worth a look.
A puck line is similar to a spread bet in that it is a bet on the favorite or underdog, but in this case, it’s a wager on the total number of goals scored in a game. In other sports, this is called a point spread. In hockey, however, it’s a bit more complicated.
The most obvious implication of a puck line is that it gives the underdog a slight head start before the game begins. That doesn’t necessarily mean that the underdog will win the game, but it does give them a slight edge in terms of a win-loss record. If the underdog wins by more than the total goals they are slated to score, then the bet will pay off.
A hockey totals bet is more of a prop bet, but there are several hockey props to choose from. The number of shots on goal, a player’s saves, or a player’s over 2.5 point total are all valid wagers. The payout is usually very similar to a prop bet on the team scoring the first goal.
One of the most important variables in hockey betting is the starting goaltender. Highly trained goalies can shut out the opposition with ease, but they can also go cold, leading to a game’s worst case scenario. When a netminder goes cold, the underdog can open up a huge hole in their line. That’s why it’s important to get to know who’s playing before you make any wagers. It’s also wise to know what type of hockey you’re betting on. For example, if you bet on the Penguins, you should be aware that they are notorious for having an explosive offense, which can lead to a hockey line that is overly skewed to their favor.
The over/under bet is the simplest of all hockey bets. It’s also the simplest to understand, as it doesn’t require the bettor to be a mathematician to pick a winner. In the past 2021-22 season, a typical NHL team allowed 3.00 goals per game, but in the next season the average will rise to 3.14 goals. In addition to the above mentioned hockey prop, the moneyline is the most common bet. It’s a bet on the team to win the game, and pays out in the form of a bet on the home team. If the home team is ahead in the final minutes of regulation, the bet will pay out. If the game ends in a tie, the bet is a loser.
The most important implication of an over/under bet is that the number can change. As the games go on, the lines can be adjusted to encourage action. Some sportsbooks are even willing to adjust the amount of money paid out based on the type of bet you place. If you’re unsure of the number, you can always take the field option, which is a bet on every other player on the board.
