Roland Arum is an expert sports betting and casino writer for Philly. He reviews online casinos and writes about gambling strategies for classics like Slots, Blackjack, and Poker. He also creates insightful guides on betting legislation in different US states and reviews sportsbooks for NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB and Boxing fans. A sports fanatic, he gets his fix from watching OKC, the Detroit Lions, and Manchester United.
All posts by Roland ArumThe best NHL betting sites are a burgeoning commodity on the US gambling scene, with 22% of Americans claiming to follow hockey religiously, according to a recent Statista survey. But which are the best hockey sportsbooks to find that all-important value on the puck line?
That is what SportsTalkPhilly is here to assist with. Our expert team has aggregated a list of 10 NHL betting sites with competitive odds, year-round bonuses, NHL specials, and futures bets. We have also provided you with insights on everything you need to know about NHL betting, including the types of banking available and how to register an account.
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List of the Best NHL Betting Sites 2024
Below are our top 10 recommended online sportsbooks for betting on the NHL Draft, regular, and postseason shows. These NHL betting sites are based offshore, and our team has ensured they are all licensed, verified, and safe to play at.
- BetOnline – Best Overall NHL Betting Site in 2024
- Bovada – Enjoy NHL Odds Boosts on Parlays
- MyBookie – Unique Betting Markets like 1st Period and Series Correct Score
- BetUS – Enjoy the Largest Welcome Promo in the Industry and Regular NHL Specials
- BetWhale – Low Withdrawal Charges
- BetNow – Get 2% Cashback on Your Losses
- XBet – Explore Exciting Futures Bets at Great Odds
- Sportsbetting.ag – Best Risk-Free Prop and Live Bets for NHL markets
- BUSR – Strong Selection of NHL Prop Bets, Including Puck Line Alternates
- Jazz – Deep Hockey Markets & Free Live Wagers to Claim
NHL Sportsbook Reviews
After extensive research, we have highlighted these offshore sportsbooks as our top NHL betting sites. What makes them stand out from the rest? Let’s see.
1. BetOnline – Best Overall NHL Betting Site in 2024
- Established: 2001
- Licensed in: Panama City, Panama
- Live NHL Betting/Streaming: /
- NHL Contests: ($10,000 NHL Puck Drop Pick’em, NHL Stanley Cup Finals Exact Matchup, Predictor Contests)
- Tailored NHL Promotions: (What the Puck?!, Reduced Juice NHL)
Overall Rating: 4.9/5.0
BetOnline is our top pick for betting on the National Hockey League. This offshore-based online sportsbook is one of the oldest sportsbooks and has a high credibility rating among hockey bettors. It is also one of the sharpest sportsbooks, with betting odds for the big tournaments released earlier than most rivals, with re-bets enabled and higher limits on offer for VIPs.
Join the BetOnline VIP program and start claiming Weekly and Monthly Bonuses.
We love BetOnline for its numerous sports betting markets. You can explore NHL betting lines on the Stanley Cup, place individual and team prop bets, or futures bets on Divisional Conferences. You can also bet live on your favorite NHL games. Additionally, the platform provides mega parlays, same-game parlays, a props builder, and odds boosts for select NHL games. On the website, you will find other hockey betting markets like the American Hockey League (AHL), Canadian Hockey League (CHL), and IIHF World Championship.
BetOnline has an attractive welcome bonus ($250 in free sports hockey bets). But the BetOnline promo codes don’t stop at the initial incentives. It also ensures ongoing value through regular free-entry contests like Puck Drop Pick’em and Predictor. The 2024 $10,000 Stanley Cup Playoffs predictor contest was our favorite – all you had to do was answer a few questions, and everyone from 1st to 500th place was rewarded.
- NHL Betting Lines & Odds: 5.0/5.0
- NHL Prop Bets: 4.8/5.0
- NHL Contests: 5.0/5.0
- Live NHL Betting: 4.9/5.0
- Bonus & Promotions: 5.0/5.0
- Safety & Security: 4.7/5.0
- Customer Support: 5.0/5.0
Welcome Bonus Promo Code Rollover Minimum Deposit $250 sports free bet FREE250 N/A $50 Pros- Competitive NHL odds
- Extensive range of NHL betting markets
- Regular promotions and free-entry contests
- Provides prop builder and odds boosts
- Live streaming of NHL games
Cons- Does not provide e-wallet banking options like PayPal
2. Bovada – Enjoy NHL Odds Boosts on Parlays
- Established: 2011
- Licensed in: Curaçao
- Live NHL Betting/Streaming: /
- NHL Contests:
- Tailored NHL Promotions:
Overall Rating: 4.8/5.0
Bovada is a Curacao-licensed NHL sports betting site that launched in 2011. It is exclusive to Americans, though it is not available in every US state.
Score boosted odds on select NHL parlays and increase your winnings.
In the off-season, you can find futures bets on the NHL Draft, Stanley Cup, and Seasonal Awards, like the Conn Smythe trophy. You get a lot more when the season gets underway, though. Expect to see NHL live betting markets, alternate lines, team/player props, first goalscorer, correct score per period, and who will score first betting markets, plus dozens more options. Aside from the NHL, Bovada also takes hockey wagers on the IIHF World Championship and the AHL, but the line selection isn’t as varied.
Perhaps the site’s biggest attraction is the NHL odds boosts on parlays. By placing a parlay wager, you automatically enter a prize draw to win rewards points, which you can convert into bonuses at the Bovada Rewards Store. In addition, Bovada bonus codes unlock two welcome offers: one for fiat and one for crypto depositors, with a combined value of $1,000 in deposit match bonus funds.
- NHL Betting Lines & Odds: 4.9/5.0
- NHL Prop Bets: 4.9/5.0
- NHL Contests: N/A
- Live NHL Betting: 4.7/5.0
- Bonus & Promotions: 5.0/5.0
- Safety & Security: 4.8/5.0
- Customer Support: 5.0/5.0
Welcome Bonus Promo Code Rollover Minimum Deposit 75% up to $750 BTCSWB750 5x $20 Pros- Odds boosts on parlays
- Wide range of NHL betting options
- Crypto and fiat welcome bonuses
- IIHF and AHL betting markets
Cons- Limited crypto deposit options
3. MyBookie – Unique Betting Markets like Series Correct Score
- Established: 2014
- Licensed in: Curaçao
- Live NHL Betting/Streaming: /
- NHL Contests:
- Tailored NHL Promotions:
Overall Rating: 4.7/5.0
MyBookie might be a newer arrival to the NHL sports betting scene, but it has everything it takes to compete with the big guns. You will find betting lines and competitive betting odds on 1st periods, series correct scores, playoff series, and futures like the NHL Draft and Stanley Cup winner.
Explore a variety of NHL Draft wagers with competitive odds.
Like BetOnline, it offers same-game parlays, allowing you to combine multiple NHL bets from the same game into one wager. It also offers live betting options so you can take advantage of favorable NHL odds before betting lines are adjusted. If you’re one for contests, you will find many here, one of which is the Jackpot progressive parlay contest. Although this contest is not free, the entry limit is quite low ($1).
Finally, MyBookie has a blog section you can read to stay current with National Hockey League events. You can also find previews and predictions on upcoming NHL games, which can help you make better betting decisions. Sign up with this sportsbook today and claim a sizeable welcome bonus using the right MyBookie promo code.
- NHL Betting Lines & Odds: 4.8/5.0
- NHL Prop Bets: 4.8/5.0
- NHL Contests: N/A
- Live NHL Betting: 4.6/5.0
- Bonus & Promotions: 4.6/5.0
- Safety & Security: 4.7/5.0
- Customer Support: 4.6/5.0
Welcome Bonus Promo Code Rollover Minimum Deposit 100% up to $1,000 MB100 10x $50 Pros- Good range of bonuses
- Exciting contests when the season gets underway
- Easy entry requirements for contests
- Has a blog section for betting updates and game preview
Cons- Website UI isn’t as modern as its competitors
4. BetUS – Huge Welcome Promo & Regular NHL Specials
- Established: 1994
- Licensed in: Mwali, Comoros Union
- Live NHL Betting/Streaming: /
- NHL Contests: (Power Play, NHL Draft specials)
- Tailored NHL Promotions:
Overall Rating: 4.6/5.0
BetUS is another oldie but goldie. The Central American licensed online sportsbook has been in the US betting industry for about 30 years. It has earned a reputation for exciting NHL props and future bets at competitive odds, including market-leading odds on the likes of the Maple Leafs and Hurricanes to win the 2025 Stanley Cup.
Enter the Power Play and NHL Draft specials contests for free and compete for substantial winnings.
Not many NHL betting sites can rival BetUS’ welcome offer, a 125% bonus of up to $2,000 on your first three deposits that is claimable using BetUS promo codes. The platform also boasts a solid selection of NHL specials, including the NHL Draft Lottery Winner, Stanley Cup, and individual prop bets like ‘From which zone will Alexander Ovechkin break Watne Gretzky’s goal record?’ and ‘With which opponent will Alexander Ovechkin break Wayne Gretzky’s goal record?’ to name just a few.
Like BetOnline, BetUS has a prop builder that allows you to make parlays from the same hockey game. Daily specials sometimes offer odds boosts. BetUS also has a unique feature called ‘The Locker Room‘ that lets patrons stay updated on the latest betting updates and garner expert picks on NHL games.
- NHL Betting Lines & Odds: 4.5/5.0
- NHL Prop Bets: 4.5/5.0
- NHL Contests: 4.9/5.0
- Live NHL Betting: 4.7/5.0
- Bonus & Promotions: 4.6/5.0
- Safety & Security: 4.5/5.0
- Customer Support: 4.4/5.0
Welcome Bonus Promo Code Rollover Minimum Deposit 125% up to $2,000 JOIN125 14x $100 Pros- 125% welcome bonus up to $2,500
- NHL Specials
- Extensive prop betting options
- Free picks and tips in The Locker Room
- Prop builder and same-game parlay betting options
Cons- High deposit requirement for welcome bonus
5. BetWhale – Low Withdrawal Charges
- Established: 2023
- Licensed in: Anjouan, Comoros Union
- Live NHL Betting/Streaming: /
- NHL Contests:
- Tailored NHL Promotions:
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0
BetWhale is a robust legal hockey betting site with an exceptional range of betting lines across domestic and foreign leagues. You can bet on the NHL, AHL, and IIHF World Championship. It also has rich individual prop bet options across the board.
Sign up and receive a 125% welcome bonus to bet on the NHL.
A further perk of this platform is its easy-to-use parlay tool for creating customized NHL bets, and it is not unusual to see NHL betting odds of -105 to -107 on spreads and totals compared to the standard -110 you may get elsewhere. In addition, as a registered patron, each time you make a deposit, you can receive up to 50% odds boosts on select markets, which include NHL lines. Just use BetWhale promo codes when depositing to claim.
Although BetWhale offers limited deposit options (credit card, prepaid voucher, crypto), it compensates for this by providing fee-free withdrawals via crypto, credit cards, and bank wire.
- NHL Betting Lines & Odds: 4.6/5.0
- NHL Prop Bets: 4.4/5.0
- NHL Contests: N/A
- Live NHL Betting: 4.5/5.0
- Bonus & Promotions: 4.3/5.0
- Safety & Security: 4.7/5.0
- Customer Support: 4.3/5.0
Welcome Bonus Promo Code Rollover Minimum Deposit 125% up to $1,250 WHALECOME 10x $50 Pros- Competitive NHL betting odds
- Easy-to-use parlay tools
- Boosted NHL odds with each deposit
- Low withdrawal fees
Cons- Slow to release NHL futures
Best NHL Betting Sites Compared
The table below compares our favorite hockey betting site picks based on welcome bonuses, contests, bet types, and live betting and streaming features.
Sportsbook Welcome Bonus Promo Code NHL Live Betting NHL Live Streaming NHL Draft Betting Futures Parlays NHL Contests BetOnline $250 in free bets FREE250 Bovada 75% up to $750 BTCSWB750 MyBookie 100% up to $1,000 + $10 casino chip MB100 BetUS 100% up to $2,000 JOIN125 BetWhale 125% up to $1,250 WHALECOME BetNow 100% up to $500 BN100 XBet 50% up to $200 XBWELCOME50 Sportsbetting.ag 50% up to $500 WELCOME BUSR 100% up to $2,500 SPORTS100FP Jazz 100% up to $1,000 JAZZRFB How We Select the Best NHL Betting Apps
Our expert team of analysts has put a lot of effort and billable hours into researching betting apps and sites and what they have on offer for users. This ranking is a result of all of that work. The criteria considered when curating this list include:
Range of NHL BetsA wide range of betting options is analogous to more winning opportunities. Thus, we have prioritized sportsbooks with extensive NHL betting markets. These include moneyline, totals, same-game parlays, handicaps, futures, props, and 3-way moneyline. Our top picks also have betting options on the NHL series, Conferences, Stanley Cup, and other hockey leagues like the AHL and CHL.
Bonuses & PromotionsLike you, we are suckers for freebies and, thus, have narrowed our search only to include NHL betting sites with juicy bonuses and promotions. Many betting sites promise bonuses, but how many are easy to claim? We weeded out those with hard-to-claim bonuses and have listed only those with relatively easy requirements. These promotions include welcome offers, free bets, reload bonuses, VIP programs, and free-to-enter content.
Safety & SecurityAt SportsTalkPhilly, we prioritize customer safety and security and consider this when making our list. All highlighted betting sites have verifiable licenses from reputable jurisdictions. SSL encryption and two-factor authentication also ensure safe and secure transactions. Finally, our experts reviewed discussions on NHL online sports betting forums to see opinions on these sites regarding safety and security.
Payment MethodsMultiple payment methods are non-negotiables. We all want convenience, and we encourage our readers to stick with betting sites that offer it. Our recommended picks offer a wide range of payment methods, including bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and e-wallets like Paypal, Skrill, and Neteller.
Live Betting & Live StreamingWe have selected options with live betting options for NHL games, including moneyline and individual prop bets. In addition, some of our picks also have a live streaming option, allowing you to watch the game unfold in real-time and place bets on perceived favorable NHL odds before betting lines are adjusted.
Customer SupportExcellent customer assistance is an essential facet of an NHL betting site. Sadly, not every platform takes it seriously. Our recommended picks are customer-centric and willing to take customer feedback and act on it. We targeted sites with multiple customer support channels, such as live chats, toll-free phone numbers, and emails, so customers can get help via any means they deem most convenient.
Is NHL Betting Legal in the US?
Each state in the US has its own betting laws. The state legislature determines the laws governing NHL online sports betting, which differ from state to state. This table summarizes the legal status of NHL retail, online, live, and draft betting in every US state.
State Retail NHL Betting Online NHL Betting NHL Live Betting NHL Draft Betting Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nevada Nebraska New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington, D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Types of Bonuses Available at NHL Sportsbooks
Sports bonuses are all too important for any bettor. They may augment your bankroll (deposit bonus), increase potential payout (odds boosts), or provide a low-risk environment to experiment with strategies (risk-free bets). The following are the most common bonuses you will find on a top betting app.
Deposit Match Welcome Promotion
These are welcome promotions and bonuses offered by NHL betting sites as an incentive to newcomers and first-timers. Generally, you qualify for this promotion when you sign up and make your first deposit. The type of deposit may inform the exact promotion one qualifies for. With many NHL online sports betting sites, the welcome bonus for a credit card deposit differs from that for a crypto deposit.
Reload Bonus
Reload bonuses, unlike welcome bonuses, are targeted at existing customers. They are bonuses for making additional deposits into one’s betting account. Usually, the sportsbook will specify the minimum deposit amount for one to qualify for the bonus. Some sportsbooks may require one to enter a promo code when making a deposit to claim the bonus.
No-Sweat Bet
A no-sweat bet, also known as a risk-free bet, is a type of sportsbook promotion in which the sportsbook offers to refund your bet—in full or in part—if the bet loses. This refund may be in the form of site credit or a free bet. You can’t usually withdraw the free bets as cash, but you can use them on the betting site.
Odds Boosts
As the name suggests, odds boosts offer potentially higher payouts for the same wager on a point spread, totals, or moneyline bet on certain hockey game(s). They are also known as enhanced NHL betting odds. Since an odds boost promotion puts the bettor at an edge, sportsbooks typically lower the wagering limits on the games involved.
Cash Rebates
Cash rebates, also known as cash backs, are cash prizes awarded to NHL bettors based on the total value of wagers they have placed over a period. This period varies from one sportsbook to another. Just like no-sweat bets, they can be considered insurance against a losing bet.
Crypto Promos
These are promos and bonuses that NHL bettors qualify for when transacting on an NHL betting site using cryptocurrencies. Popular crypto promos include cashback, rebates, free bets, and welcome, deposit, and reload bonuses. An example is BetUS’ 200% sign-up crypto promo. However, to qualify, you must make a minimum deposit of $100 in crypto.
NHL Specials & Contests
These are special betting options on players, teams, and winning streaks during special tournaments. They may include bracket challenges, Stanley Cup bonuses, contests, parlay insurance, and odds boosts for particular games. For instance, BetOnline has a $10,000 NHL playoffs predictor contest, in which each bettor can win cash for correctly predicting the playoff winner.
- Predictor contests – BetOnline
- NHL Draft specials – BetUS
- Puck Drop Pick’em contests – BetOnline
- NHL Stanley Cup Finals Exact Matchup – BetOnline
Bonus Comparison at the Best Hockey Betting Sites
The table below shows precisely what bonuses are offered at each of our ranked NHL betting sites for 2024.
Sportsbook Welcome Bonus Reload Bonus No-Sweat Bets Odds Boosts Cash Rebates Crypto Promos NHL Specials BetOnline $250 in free bets $50 risk-free live bet Parlays, futures, and props $50 risk-free player prop wager Reduced Juice NHL; What the Puck Bovada 75% up to $750 Parlay booster % of cashback depends on tier level in the Rewards ladder 75% deposit bonus up to $750 Boosted parlay odds MyBookie 100% up to $1,000 + $10 casino chip 50% up to $1,250 Daily specials BetUS 100% up to $2,000 100% up to $2,500 Odds booster 150% up to $2,000 Individual prop bets and NHL Draft lottery winner BetWhale 125% up to $1,250 Unlimited 50% match bonus $50 player prop Daily booster 250% first deposit bonus BetNow 100% up to $500 25% up to $500 2% of net loss minus week’s bonus 200% up to $200 XBet 50% up to $200 5% crypto re-up bonus up to $100 Sportsbetting.ag 100% up to $500 25% up to $250 Up to $100 on live wagers Daily booster 100% risk-free player prop wager 100% crypto welcome bonus up to $1,000 $10,000 NHL playoffs predictor and futures bet BUSR 100% up to $2,500 50% up to $1,250 100% up to $1,000 bonus Jazz 100% up to $1,000 + risk free bet + NFL contest entry 20% up to $500 $25 risk-free props builder $25 risk-free live betting 100% up to $1,000 bonus Stanley Cup Playoffs Payment Methods at the Best Hockey Sportsbooks
The best NHL betting sites support extensive payment methods to make transactions simple and hassle-free for its users. The table below shows the most common payment methods with our recommended NHL sports betting apps.
Payment Method About Examples Cryptocurrencies - Zero gas fees
- Quick payouts
- No third-party intermediaries
- Bitcoin
- Bitcoin Cash
- Litecoin
- Ethereum
Traditional Payment Methods - Easy to use
- Might incur extra charges, e.g., overdraft
- Trusted and dependable
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- Bank transfers
- Payment vouchers
E-wallets - Secure payment option
- Convenient to use
- Skrill can make cash-crypto trades quickly for crypto welcome bonuses
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Neteller
- ecoPayz
Deposit Options
You can fund your account with Bitcoin, Altcoins, debit cards, etc. The table below shows our top picks and their respective deposit options.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Altcoins E-wallet Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer Gift Cards BetOnline Bovada MyBookie BetUS BetWhale BetNow XBet Sportsbetting.ag BUSR Jazz Withdrawal Options
Have you hit paydirt yet? You can withdraw your earnings now. These are the options available on our top NHL betting sites.
Sportsbook Bitcoin Altcoins E-wallet Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer Gift Cards BetOnline Bovada MyBookie BetUS BetWhale BetNow XBet Sportsbetting.ag BUSR Jazz NHL Betting Apps & Mobile Wagering
It’s no coincidence that retail betting figures have significantly reduced over the years. This is because more people these days prefer to bet online than in person, and it is easy to see why. In states where sports betting isn’t legal, you cannot walk into betting shops to place bets. But you can use offshore sportsbooks, which are accessible on mobile!
All you have to do is visit the website, create an account, make a deposit, and start playing. Although none of our recommended NHL sportsbooks have downloadable apps available on iPhone or Android stores, their websites still offer the same capabilities as these apps. You can bookmark pages from these sites and get notifications like you would with a downloadable NHL betting app. These are some of the pros and cons of a good NHL betting app.
Advantages of NHL betting apps- 24/7 access to all wagering action
- Increased security: 2FA, facial recognition, etc.
- Convenience
- App-specific bonuses and promotions
Disadvantages of NHL betting apps- Longer payout times compared to retail NHL online sports betting
- Enables gambling addiction
- Uses up memory on your mobile device
How to Read NHL Odds
NHL odds can get confusing if you’re a first-timer, but it is a walk in the park. Let’s go over the basics:
NHL odds are usually based on a $100 wager. A minus bet is used for the favorite, and a plus bet is used for the underdog.
On a betting site, you could see moneyline betting lines like Montreal Canadiens (+110) and Florida Panthers (-110). In this case, the latter is considered the favorite and the former the underdog. If you favor the Panthers to win, you must place a $110 wager on the team to win $100. However, if you would rather bet on the Canadiens, you must wager $100 to get a profit of $110.
A puck line works similarly. However, rather than bet on the game’s outcome, you are betting on a spread. Consider a puck line of Detroit Red Wings -1.5 (+150); Boston Bruins +1.5 (-170).
For a bet on the Red Wings to win, they must win the game by a two-goal margin, while a bet on the Bruins wins only if they outrightly win the game or lose by less than two goals. Betting $100 on the Red Wings to cover the puck line at odds of +150 would yield a profit of $150 if the bet wins. On the other hand, you would need to bet $170 on the Bruins to win $100 if the bet wins.
Popular NHL Betting Lines
Do you know your betting lines? What lines are you familiar with? Here are some of the most popular betting lines and their meanings.
Moneyline
Betting the moneyline simply involves picking what side you think will win the game. Typically, each team is assigned a moneyline that reflects the implied probability of them coming out on top.
Puckline
It is the NHL’s equivalent of a point spread bet. Unlike a moneyline, which involves betting on outcomes, a puck line involves betting on a game’s victory margin.
Total points
This is wagering on an NHL game’s total combined score or points. The oddsmaker sets an expected total number of goals, and bettors predict whether the final score will be under or over that total.
Futures
Futures bets are bets on games and events that will happen later in the future. Typical futures bets include predicting who will win the Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, Playoff Series, or Conference even before the season begins.
Parlays
Parlays let you wager one amount on different betting markets and games or the same game for a potentially larger payout. If you pick multiple bets to make a parlay, all the bets must win for the parlay to pay out.
NHL Live Betting
Sometimes, you want to see a game’s dynamics for yourself before placing your bets rather than solely relying on pre-game previews and predictions. NHL Live betting allows you to place your bets while a game unfolds.
What are NHL Betting Splits?
NHL betting splits show the percentage of cash wagered on each side of a bet. This is slightly different from the NHL public betting percentage, which shows the percentage of bets placed on each side of an NHL betting line. Here’s a little explanation to help you understand.
In a game between the Las Vegas Golden Knights and Tampa Bay Lightning, a higher percentage of bets may be placed on the Golden Knights, while the percentage of money wagered on the Lightning may be more because of a few large bets.
Studying betting splits can help you find value in bets. Betting against the bandwagon, for example, can be very rewarding if your bet wins.
Important Dates for Betting on NHL
The NHL schedule can get crowded sometimes, making it difficult to keep track of the dates. This table summarizes the most important NHL betting dates to keep in mind for the 2024-25 NHL season.
Event Date NHL Draft June 28-29, 2024 Opening Day of Training Camp September 18, 2024 NHL Preseason Games September 21 – October 5, 2024 Opening Night of 200=24-25 NHL Regular Season October 8, 2024 2024 US Hockey Hall of Fame Game October 12, 2024 NHL Frozen Frenzy: All 32 NHL Teams in Action October 22, 2024 Hockey Hall of Fame Game: Detroit Red Wings at Toronto Maple Leafs November 8, 2024 NHL Founders Day (1917) November 26, 2024 Signing Deadline for Group 2 Free Agents December 1, 2024 USHL American Cup: Green Bay Gamblers vs. Des Moines Buccaneers December 5-6, 2024 2024 Stanley Cup Final rematch: Florida Panthers at Edmonton Oilers December 16, 2024 NHL Winter Classic December 31, 2024 All Seven Canadian NHL Teams in Action January 18, 2025 NHL Season pauses for the 4 Nations Face-Off February 10-21, 2025 NHL Regular Season resumes February 22, 2025 2024 Stanley Cup Final rematch February 27, 2025 2025 NHL Trade Deadline March 7, 2025 Regular Season ends April 17, 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin April 19, 2025 2025 NHL Draft Lottery TBD Last possible day for the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs April 23, 2025 2025 NHL Awards TBD 2025 NHL Draft TBD Most Popular Teams for NHL Betting in 2024
These are some of the most popular hockey betting picks in the 2024-25 NHL season.
Toronto Maple Leafs – 2025 Stanley Cup Champions
If you have a bias for Canadian teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs is one to bet on to win the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup. The Maple Leafs, who have the second most Stanley Cups, haven’t won any titles since they last did in 1967. They have managed to build one of the strongest rosters in the league, though. Their big forwards, led by Auston Matthews, are in a class of their own and could power them to victory this term. They are great for a futures bet if you like long shots.
Tampa Bay Lightning – To Reach the 2025 Playoffs
You can count on Tampa Bay making the 2024-25 postseason. Everyone knows this, the odds books know too. This is a good bet to place if you want to play safe. The Bolts have made it to the playoffs every year since 2018, and have won the Stanley Cup Championship twice within this period. They were fourth in the Atlantic Division standings last season and with a strong team, and an opportunity to attract young talents at the Draft, we see them making another playoff.
Detroit Red Wings – Over 15.5 Home Wins
You can bet on the Wings winning 15+ games in front of their home fans. Last season, they won 23 at the Little Caesars Arena and have consistently met the 15 mark for the past 10 seasons, save for the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons when they had abysmal performances. Now a contender for the postseason, this could be a good value bet to place.
Best NHL Players to Bet on in 2024
At the time of writing, the 2024-25 NHL season is underway, and there are many games that we can sink our teeth into. Auston Matthews, Cale Makar, and Nathan Mackinnon all shone in the postseason last term, and are expected to carry on their form into the new campaign. These are some of the NHL players for whom you should have your eyes peeled this year.
Auston Matthews – Rocket Richard Trophy (Most Goals)
The Toronto Maple Leaf’s star has been racking up good numbers for the Ontario team for many seasons coming. However, the 2023-24 season was arguably his best all-round performance. He proved to anyone who cared to notice that he could dominate on the offense without sacrificing his two-way game, scoring 69 goals (best in the season) and blocking 93 shots (2nd best among forwards). We back Auston Matthews to score 40+ goals in the regular season. The center has averaged 40+ goals for seven straight seasons and shows no signs of stopping soon.
Connor McDavid – Hart Trophy (MVP)
Currently one of the best ice hockey players in the world, it comes as no surprise that Connor McDavid is once again a frontrunner for the Hart Trophy in the 2024-25 season. The Canadian has already secured three MVPs, most recently in 2023, and will be keen on adding another to his growing trophy case. Last season, the Oilers’ captain lit up the scoreboard with 132 points in his name, showing his impressive playmaking and goalscoring skills. Having ended the postseason on a high, winning the Playoffs MVP, McDavid is ready to hit the ice running and carry his red-hot form into the new campaign.
Tage Thompson – Over 40.5 Goals
Tage Thompson set the National Hockey League alight in the 2022-2023 season, racking up a staggering 47 goals and as many assists in 78 games. His wicked shots had goalies and defenders scrambling. Last season, the American suffered a lingering upper-body injury that nagged him, but he still managed to score 29 goals. Now with a clean bill of health ahead of the new campaign, we expect to see the 2023 Thompson that tore it up on the ice. With youngsters Dahlin and Dylan Cozen growing into key playmakers for the Sabres, we’re backing Tage Thompson to take advantage and score more than 40 goals.
Top Tips for Betting on the NHL
Here are some NHL betting tips to help if you are new to betting on the NHL.
1. Wager Responsibly
Keep in mind that no matter how good-looking a bet might be, there’s a fair chance you’ll lose it, too. Therefore, only bet what you can afford to lose. Set a realistic betting budget for yourself, and never go outside it. Chasing losses often does no good, either. Hockey betting is not a shortcut to financial success.
2. Pay Attention to Streaks
Riding the streak rather than betting against it is often a good decision. For instance, if a team gets its key injured players back into the lineup and is on a four-game winning streak, a safe bet would be backing them for another win in their fifth game.
3. Look for value in away teams
Oddsmakers typically set their NHL odds based on overall record and power ratings. So, you might find some value in betting on teams that do well on the road. Unlike with other sports like the NBA, playing at home doesn’t necessarily give the home team an advantage. An example is the Dallas Stars, with the best (26-10-5) on-the-road record in the 2023-24 season. You might find value in betting on them even if oddsmakers favor the opposition.
4. Consider Special Teams
When there’s a penalty, each team is expected to field its special teams, which could be penalty killers or power play units. Experience has shown that the performance of these special teams can make a huge difference in whether a game ends over or under the total. The score tends to go over the total when the teams playing have porous penalty killings and/or good power plays.
5. Look up the Starting Goalie
Sometimes, because of upcoming Championships or more important games, some teams may choose to give their starting goalie a rest. This often happens without significant notice before a game, so it may not be reflected adequately in the odds. If the backup is starting and is not considered a very good goalie, you may find better value in betting against them.
Best Hockey Betting Strategies
Although no strategy guarantees you will always beat the oddsmakers, there are a few that can help you profit in the long term. These strategies can edge you closer to making sizable profits every betting week.
Bet Against the Bandwagon
Our best strategy is probably betting against the public. The idea is that, more often than not, the public backs the favorite, throwing off the odds and making the favorite’s odds relatively low.
We encourage taking a chance on the underdog if their current form (going by the last 10 and streak listed on the standings) shows they are in better shape. Throw your hat in the ring, bet against the bandwagon, and you might just get some good value there. True value is in understanding when lines aren’t as they should be and placing the appropriate bets.
Pay Attention to Team Rosters
Have you taken a look at that team’s roster? You should! Sometimes, teams rest players because of minor injuries or more important games ahead. There are two ways to bet on this – You could bet on the underdog if the favorites are sitting out important players or on the favorites if you think they have enough depth. Let’s consider the Edmonton Oilers against the Nashville Predators, for instance.
Years back, the Oilers resting McDavid or Draisaitl almost automatically meant losing. However, with players like Nugent-Hopkins on the roster, you should probably still favor the Oilers, even if more public sentiments are for the Predators. The Oilers have great depth, with three players getting over the century mark in the 2023-24 season. Coincidentally, they also have the most incidents of a player hitting 100 points
Do not Bet on Every NHL Game
It is a rookie mistake to bet on every game played daily. Hence, we encourage you to place bets only on teams you have very strong opinions about. If the betting site allows, you can pick different bet options from the same game (same-game parlays). MyBookie allows same-game parlays.
By all means, avoid placing bets on every game just to have action on it. If you like to take chances, consider betting only small amounts. Betting blindly is never a strategy; it leaves things to luck.
Read Expert Previews and Predictions
It’s good practice to look up expert previews and predictions before betting on any game. These previews summarize the teams’ stats, including head-to-head statistics, current form, and injury lists. Consequently, you will be able to make more informed betting decisions.
It helps if the sportsbook has a preview/predictions page. You can read expert opinions and bet accordingly within the same platform. BetUS is one such site. On BetUS, you can find expert analysis on individual prop bet picks and teams to watch out for ahead of the next betting week.
Tackling the Over/Under Market
This is a very effective hockey betting strategy. However, the trick here isn’t to bet on overs for a team that consistently scores above a number of goals. For instance, betting on the Maple Leafs to score over 3.5 goals after having done that for six consecutive games.
The value here is noticing a difference in a team’s style of play due to injuries. An example is if the Vancouver Canucks lose two or more regular defensemen, the blue-liners are forced to play with defensemen they aren’t used to playing with. This potentially increases the amount of breakdowns and can result in more turnovers and giveaways of the puck in the defensive zone. A good example is the Ottawa Senators in the 2020-21 season, losing multiple defensemen and going 10-1 over the total in their following 11 games.
Other Hockey Markets Featured on Offshore Sportsbooks
Some of the other hockey markets you can find on offshore sportsbooks include:
- Canadian Hockey League (CHL) – BetOnline has different individual prop and futures bets on the Canadian Hockey League.
- American Hockey League (AHL) – You can bet on the AHL on BetOnline.
- IIHF World Championship – There is a wide range of betting options on the IIHF World Championship on Bovada.
- Euro Hockey Tour – Place live bets on the Euro Hockey Tour on BetOnline.
- Canada Western Hockey League – You can find betting lines on this league on BetUS.
- Ontario Hockey League (OHL) – Available on BetWhale.
- Australian Ice Hockey League – You can make totals and moneyline bets on Melbourne Mustangs, Sydney Bears, etc., on Bovada.
Stanley Cup 2025 Betting Odds
As teams battle to hoist Lord Stanley, we look at the chances of the playoff teams lifting the coveted trophy. The table below compares the teams in contention for the 2025 Stanley Cup and the top NHL betting apps to visit to get good value.
Teams BetOnline Bovada MyBookie BetUS BetWhale Atlantic Boston Bruins +2000 +1800 +1950 +1800 +1600 Buffalo Sabres +5000 +5000 +5000 +5000 +4200 Detroit Red Wings +4500 +4000 +4300 +4000 +4000 Florida Panthers +900 +950 +1050 +1000 +1000 Montreal Canadians +15000 +12500 +10000 +12500 +8000 Ottawa Senators +3500 +4000 +4200 +4000 +4000 Tampa Bay Lightning +2000 +2200 +2200 +2200 +1800 Toronto Maple Leafs +1400 +1100 +1450 +1500 +1200 Metropolitan Carolina Hurricanes +1400 +1300 +1250 +1400 +1300 Columbus Blue Jackets +50000 +20000 +22000 +25000 +20000 New Jersey Devils +1000 +1400 +1100 +1200 +1200 New York Islanders +4500 +5000 +4800 +5000 +3200 New York Rangers +1400 +1300 +1375 +1200 +1200 Philadelphia Flyers +6000 +6600 +6000 +5500 +4200 Pittsburgh Penguins +5000 +5000 +5200 +5000 +4000 Washington Capitals +7500 +6600 +5800 +6500 +5000 Central Chicago Blackhawks +15000 +10000 +13000 +15000 +10000 Colorado Avalanche +1200 +1300 +1200 +1100 +1000 Dallas Stars +1100 +1100 +1075 +1100 +900 Minnesota Wild +3300 +4000 +4900 +4000 +5000 Nashville Predators +1600 +1600 +1825 +1600 +1600 St. Louis Blues +6000 +6000 +6000 +6500 +5000 Utah Hockey Club +6600 +5000 +7500 +7500 +8000 Winnipeg Jets +2500 +2800 +2700 +3000 +2200 Pacific Anaheim Ducks +25000 +20000 +20000 +25000 +15000 Calgary Flames +15000 +8000 +8000 +8000 +6300 Edmonton Oilers +750 +750 +830 +750 +800 Los Angeles Kings +2500 +2500 +2600 +2500 +2400 San Jose Sharks +50000 +30000 +38000 +25000 +25000 Seattle Kraken +6000 +6600 +5600 +6500 +5000 Vancouver Canucks +2200 +1600 +1700 +2500 +1400 Vegas Golden Knights +1400 +1800 +1725 +1800 +1600 NHL Sports Betting Terminology
Even if you have been betting on the NHL for a while, there are some terms you probably don’t totally understand. For instance, have you ever heard vigorish or sharp money but don’t know what they mean? If this sounds like you, below are some of the most used NHL betting terminologies.
- Bad beat: This is when a bet that should have easily won loses.
- Bankroll: The total money you have set aside for betting purposes.
- Chalk: An alternative word for the favorite.
- Cover: When a -1.5 favorite team wins by two goals, they are said to have covered the spread.
- Dime line: When the difference in hockey odds’ juice on both sides of a bet is 10 cents (-130 and +140, for instance).
- Line movement: This is when NHL betting odds change, usually due to a suspension, injury, or change in-game dynamics.
- Live betting: Betting on a game that is already underway.
- Moneyline: It is a bet on who wins the game outright, regardless of the victory margin.
- Period betting: This is a bet on the result of a particular period rather than an entire game.
- Push: The bet pushes if the final scoreline results in none of the teams covering the spread.
- Reduced juice: When a betting site’s vigorish is less than most of the competition.
- ROI: A Return on Investment measures your profit for every dollar wagered.
- Sharp money: A slang used by sports bettors for teams that many experts and pro bettors are betting on.
- Steam: Used to describe a situation where the line moves suddenly in a certain direction
- Vigorish: Also known as juice, it is the commission a betting site charges on your stake/wager.
How to Sign Up with the Best NHL Sportsbooks
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get your hockey bet account up and running. We will use our top–most pick, BetOnline, for illustration purposes.
Create a Betting Account with BetOnline
Enter BetOnline in your browser and create a betting account by selecting “Join Now.”Verification
A registration form will appear. Fill out this form with the requested info and select “Create Account.”Fund Your Account & Enter a Promo Code
Now, deposit money into your account by selecting the “Deposit” button on the top menu. Choose a payment method from the list of options. A minimum deposit of $25 applies for card deposits and $20 for crypto deposits. However, you qualify for the $250 in free sports bets promotion if you deposit a minimum of $50 using credit or debit cards. Remember to enter the promo code “FREE250” to access this offer.Start Playing
You’re all set! Navigate to the sports section, locate the NHL tab, and make your picks. Next, enter a stake amount and click “Place Bet.”
The Best NHL Betting Site Online 2024
The NHL offers many betting options, from individual prop bets to futures bets on the post-season show, NHL Draft, and even the regular season. These betting markets are also available on many betting sites. However, the availability of these betting markets isn’t the only thing that makes a betting site ideal for bettors.
We are here to help you find a safe place to bet online. Our recommended NHL betting apps are licensed and completely safe to play. BetOnline, in particular, offers a range of juicy offerings for new and returning customers. You may get early betting lines, free-entry contests, props builder, and same-game parlays.
NHL Betting Sites FAQs
What does +1.5 mean in NHL betting?
It is common to see +1.5 or -1.5 when betting on an NHL puck line. The minus sign is for the favorite, whereas the plus sign is for the underdog. A bet on the underdog (+1.5) wins if the team wins outright or loses by one goal or less.
What is the spread in NHL betting?
The spread, typically used in the NBA and NFL to describe a wager on a match outcome with a handicap applied, is better known as the puck line in the NHL. Typically, the oddsmaker predicts that the favorites will win by a certain number of points or the underdog will lose by less than that number. The set number of points is called the point spread.
Is the NHL hard to bet on?
NHL betting isn’t different from betting on the NBA, NFL, or MLB. There’s a fine art to it which anyone can learn. Understand the bet types, the teams involved, and where the value odds are, and you can make sizable profits.
Which sportsbook has the best odds for the NHL?
It’s difficult to tell which without comparing multiple options. However, based on our research and experience, BetOnline provides the best odds and line selection overall for hockey.
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Roland Arum is an expert sports betting and casino writer for Philly. He reviews online casinos and writes about gambling strategies for classics like Slots, Blackjack, and Poker. He also creates insightful guides on betting legislation in different US states and reviews sportsbooks for NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB and Boxing fans. A sports fanatic, he gets his fix from watching OKC, the Detroit Lions, and Manchester United.
All posts by Roland ArumRoland Arum is an expert sports betting and casino writer for Philly. He reviews online casinos and writes about gambling strategies for classics like Slots, Blackjack, and Poker. He also creates insightful guides on betting legislation in different US states and reviews sportsbooks for NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB and Boxing fans. A sports fanatic, he gets his fix from watching OKC, the Detroit Lions, and Manchester United.
All posts by Roland ArumExpert Guides
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