Moneyline wagers can be a great option, but there are several angles to consider
Moneyline betting on NHL matches is popular for its simplicity: you bet on which team will win the game outright. Unlike spread betting, which involves point margins, moneyline betting is straightforward, making it appealing to both beginners and seasoned bettors. However, it has its own set of pros and cons to consider.
One advantage of moneyline betting in the NHL is its clarity. You’re simply choosing a team to win, which is straightforward for anyone looking to bet without complicated calculations. This format can be particularly beneficial when analyzing matchups between unevenly matched teams.
For instance, betting on a favored team offers a relatively high probability of winning, though the returns may be smaller. Moneyline bets also work well here because they avoid the challenge of predicting exact point spreads, which can be especially tricky in hockey due to the sport’s low-scoring nature.
Another pro is the potential for strategic bets on underdogs. In the NHL, outcomes can be unpredictable, with underdog teams often pulling off wins. Moneyline bets on underdogs can yield substantial payouts compared to favorites, making it an attractive choice for bettors willing to take calculated risks. Additionally, the NHL season is long, allowing bettors ample opportunities to study teams and exploit favorable moneyline odds as they identify trends.
On the downside, moneyline betting on NHL games can sometimes offer limited returns on favorites. Betting on a favored team typically requires a larger stake to make a meaningful profit. This low reward may not justify the risk for some, as an unexpected loss can wipe out several small wins. Furthermore, relying on moneyline bets alone doesn’t account for the various factors that can impact an NHL game, such as player injuries, goalie performance, and other situational variables.