Beginners Guide to Ice Hockey Betting

Ice hockey is an Olympic sport; there are dozens of leagues (including the National Hockey League (NHL)) with more than a million registered players worldwide. And it’s Canada’s most popular sport. This popularity extends to hockey betting, which is now a popular offering in many leading sportsbooks worldwide. Most of these websites cover the most popular leagues, including the major, professional and regional leagues, thus making ice hockey betting more accessible to punters.

Oliver Melton
By Oliver Melton
  2. Betting Academy
  3. Betting on Ice Hockey
Page Navigation
  1. Main Hockey Rules
  2. Basic Terms
  3. Top Bookmakers for Ice Hockey Betting
  4. Most Popular Competitions
  5. What to Know about NHL Betting?
  6. Short History
  7. Summary
  8. FAQ

Understanding the Rules

faceoff ice hockey game

If you’re just starting out, make sure to learn about its rules and hockey betting tips and wager types.

Here’s how the game is played out:

In ice hockey, there are 2 teams, each with six players wearing skates and playing on an ice rink with sticks on hand. Players’ objective is to propel the rubber disk, the puck, past the line and into the net guarded by a goalie or a goaltender. A team scores a point when sending the puck into the goal. The team that scores the most goals at the end of the game wins the match.

An ice hockey game comes with three 20-minute periods, and if a game is tied, overtime is played out to break the time. If the two teams end up tied after the overtime, a penalty shootout happens. For this reason, you will not find a tied game in the regular seasons of the NHL.

During the actual game, the puck can be passed around the players, and it’s the opposing team’s job to prevent a score. The game is fast and comes with frequent physical contact, making it exciting for both the spectators and punters.

Basic Terms

To fully appreciate hockey betting, it’s essential that you’re aware of the different terms and lingo used in the game. Listed below are the popular terms that you’ll encounter when watching or betting on the results.

  • Attacking Zone – The other team’s end of the ice.
  • Assist – A play between two players of the scoring team who pass, shoot, or deflect the puck towards the scoring player.
  • Blue Line – This is the line that separates the defending and attacking zones from the neutral zone.
  • Blueliner – The defenseman.
  • Body checking – To use the body or hip to knock an opponent and only allowed in the men’s game.
  • Breakaway – A player has possession of the puck, and he’s free to score with only the goalie in the way.
  • Cage – This is the metal grid that attaches to the front of the player’s helmet for protection.
  • Defender – The player that tries to defend against an opposing attack from another player.
  • Defensive zone – This extends from the blue line to the end boards.
  • Rink – The ice-coated playing area of the players.
  • Faceoff – This happens at the start of the play or after the stoppage of the game. In a faceoff, a player from each team attempts to gain control of the puck after it’s dropped.
  • Goal – A player scores this if the puck passes through the goal line in front of the net.
  • Goaltender – Also called the goalie, he’s the player who plays in and around the goal. His objective is to prevent the other team from scoring a goal.
  • Golden goal – A game-winning goal.
  • Hat-trick – A player who scores three goals in a game.
  • Linesman – The official who’s responsible for conducting faceoffs and identifying player infractions.
  • Minor and Major penalties – This is a 2-minute and 5-minute penalty.
  • Official – The person who is responsible for regulating gameplay.
  • Overtime – This is an extra session of play to end a tie.
  • Referee – The official that runs and manages the game.
  • Zone – One of the three areas on the rink that’s divided by blue lines.

Where to Find Hockey Betting Websites?

Bet365Rating: 5.0/5
Bet365 review
  • Different bonuses
  • Cash Out
  • Different payment methods
  • High odds
Open Account Offer Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365. Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. The bonus code BBCODE can be used during registration, but does not change the offer amount in any way. +18 | Terms & Conditions #Advertisement
bonus icon
Bet £10 & Get £50 in Bet Credits
Get your bonusGo to Bet365
BetwayRating: 4.9/5
Betway review
  • High odds
  • Great markets
  • Superb support
  • Welcome offers
New customers only. Min Deposit: £10. First deposit matched up to £10. 1 x wagering at odds of 1.75+ to unlock Free Bet. Debit Card & PayPal deposits only. This offer is valid for 7 days from your new account being registered. Terms apply 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Free Bet £10
Get your BonusGo to Betway
888sportRating: 4.6/5
888sport review
  • Fantastic bonuses
  • Good sportsbook
  • Amazing casino games
  • Many payment methods
+18 | Min deposit £/€/$10 • A qualifying bet is a ‘real money’ stake of at least £/€/$10 • Min odds 1/2 (1.50) • Free Bets are credited upon qualifying bet settlement and expire after 7 days • Free Bet stakes are not included in returns • Casino Bonus must be claimed within 7 days, wins are capped at £/€/$500 • To withdraw bonus/related wins, you must wager the bonus amount up to 40 times its value within 14 days • Casino Bonus expires after 60 days • Casino Bonus can be used on selected games in casino only • Restrictions apply to withdrawals, payment methods & countries & full T&Cs apply | begamblingaware | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Bet £/€10 Get £/€30
Get £/€30 BonusGo to 888sport
BwinRating: 4.7/5
Bwin review
  • Big range of sport betting options
  • High odds
  • Casino games
  • Poker platform
18+ | New UK players only | Min deposit req. £10 | Certain deposit methods excluded | Pace 1 sport bet (3+ selections) } Excl Horse Racing| Min stake £10 | Max stake £20 | Min odds 1/5 (1.5) for each selection | Max FreeBet £20 for football only | FreeBet valid for 7 days | FreeBet stake not returned | T&Cs apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Get a £20 for New Customers
Get your bonusGo to Bwin
LadbrokesRating: 4.6/5
Ladbrokes review
  • High Odds
  • Good Mobile Apps
  • Reliable Customer Support
  • Quick Payments
18+ New UK+IRE customers. Certain deposits and bet types excl. Min £/€5 bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 = 4 x /€5 free bets. Free bets valid available to use on selected sportsbook markets only. Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. Rrestrictions + T&Cs apply. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Up to £20 Welcome Bonus
Get your BonusGo to Ladbrokes
William HillRating: 4.9/5
William Hill review
  • Wide range of casino games
  • Hundreds of sports betting markets
  • Lots of other betting options like bingo and poker
  • Cash Out option
New customers using Promo Code P30 only, min £10/€10 stake, min odds 1/2, free bets paid as 2 x £15/€15 (30 days expiry), free bet/payment method/player/country restrictions apply. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£30 Welcome Offer
Claim £30 bonusGo to William Hill
KarambaRating: 4.4/5
Karamba review
  • Excellent promotion package
  • Convenient payments
  • Mobile apps for iOS & Android
New customers only. Max one £10 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & Paypal not eligible. Real money bets required for Karamba battle. Participants subject to timeout. £1000 Winner cash prize guaranteed. 18+ | | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
£10 Welcome offer
Get £10 BonusGo to Karamba
BoyleSportsRating: 4.5/5
BoyleSports review
  • Variety of sports markets
  • Good odds
  • Mobile apps for Android & iOS
  • Bonuses for existing customers
18+. UK Customers (Excluding NI) only. Cash stakes only. Min £10 stake required for initial £5 free bet. Min odds ½. Max £25 in free bets. Subsequent free bets equal 50% average of each 3 £5 max qualifying bets. 13 settled bets required to receive full £25 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed on sportsbook within 30 days of opening account. Cashed out bets will not qualify towards your average stake. One free bet offer per customer, household or IP address only. Free bet expires after 7 days. Payment method restrictions apply. T&Cs apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
£25 New Customer Exclusive Offer
Welcome OfferGo to BoyleSports
BetUKRating: 4.6/5
BetUK review
  • Great selection of sports betting markets
  • Competitive Odds
  • Various Betting Features
  • Android and iOS mobile apps
Full T&C’s Apply. New customers on mobile only. 7 days to claim and stake £10 minimum bet at odds of 1.5 or greater to qualify. Free, void, cashed out or partially cashed out bets do not qualify. Max 3 x £10 Free Bets credited when you opt in by clicking the claim button on my offers page. Once the offer is claimed, place your qualifying bet, after the qualifying bet is settled, you will receive your free bets. Free bets must be used on 4 or more selections and are non-withdrawable and stake not returned with winnings. 7 day expiry. | 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Bet £10 Get £30 Welcome Offer
Claim £30 BonusGo to BetUK
Virgin BetRating: 4.6/5
Virgin Bet review
  • Great selection of sports markets
  • High-level Odds
  • Casino Games
  • Excellent Betting Features Included
*New members. £10 min deposit & bet on sportsbook, placed & settled at 1.5 min odds within 14 days of sign-up. Register before 17:59 8/04/20022 and after 18.00 9/04/2022. Win part of the E/W bets. 2 non-withdrawable £10 Free Bet Tokens: accept in 7 days, valid for 7 days from acceptance (ex E/Ws & Multiples), stakes not returned. 18+ T&Cs Apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Bet £10 Get £20 in Free bets
Claim your BonusGo to Virgin Bet
CoralRating: 4.6/5
Coral review
  • Good looking website
  • An operator with a long history
  • Great selection of sports
  • Helpful customer support
18+ Eligible UK+IRE players. Paypal & some deposit & bet types excl. Min first £5 bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 = 4 x £5 free bets. Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. No cashout, restrictions + T&Cs apply. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Get £20 Welcome Bonus
Get your OfferGo to Coral
BetVictorRating: 4.6/5
BetVictor review
  • eSports betting markets
  • Live Casino
  • Mobile apps for Android and iOS
  • Cash out option
New Customers only. Deposit, opt in and place a £5 qualifying bet at odds of 2.00 or greater within 7 days of opening a new account; excludes cashed out bets. Receive 2x £10 Free Sports Bets, valid on set events only at odds 2.00 or greater, expires in 7 days.  Plus a £10 Game Show Bonus, selected games, wager 40x to withdraw a max of £250. PayPal and Card Payments only. Geographical Restrictions and T&Cs Apply. Please Gamble Responsibly. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
£30 New Customers onus
Claim Your BonusGo to BetVictor
UnibetRating: 4.6/5
Unibet review
  • Good bonuses
  • Big range of sports betting options
  • Different casino games
  • Mobile apps
New customers only. Min deposit £10. Money back as bonus if first bet loses. Wagering requirements: sportsbook 3x at min. odds of 1.40 (2/5), casino 50x. Unless forfeited the sportsbook bonus must be wagered before using the casino bonus. Bonus expires 7 days after opt-in. No deposit required for NI customers. Call 08081699314 to claim. Full T&Cs apply | 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Claim £40 Bonus
Claim your bonusGo to Unibet
InterbetRating: 4.6/5
Interbet review
  • Huge amount of promotions
  • Live dealer and casino games
  • VIP program
  • Helpful customer support
New Players Only. Free bet is a one-time stake of €/$/£10, minimum odds of 1.5, stake is not returned. 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Max conversion: €/$/£20. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Up to €/£/$10 Welcome Bonus
Get €/£/$10 BonusGo to Interbet
KwiffRating: 4.6/5
Kwiff review
  • Licensed Brand
  • Easy-to-navigate Platform
  • Excellent Odds
  • Great Betting Products
New customers & 18+ only. Min. deposit of £/€10. Qualifying real money bet of £/€10. Min. odds greater than or equal to 1.50 required. Each way bets excluded. Offer credited within 48 hours. Additional T&Cs apply. | 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
£20 Sports Sign-up Bonus
Claim your BonusGo to Kwiff
NovibetRating: 4.6/5
Novibet review
  • Attractive Odds
  • Fun bets available
  • Cash-out feature
18+ | UK new customers only | KYC verified | Min £10 bet | Max £20 free bet (2 x £10) full amount awarded on losing first bet only | Min odds 7/10 (1.70) | Free bet stake not returned | Certain Markets/sports/payment methods restrictions apply | Cashed-out and Bet Builder bets are excluded from this offer | Qualifying bet must be made within 30 days | Free bet valid for 30 days | T&C's apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get £20 Welcome Bonus
Get this bonusGo to Novibet
BetfredRating: 4.5/5
Betfred review
  • Odds promotions
  • Good sports betting
  • Opportunity to watch the games live
New UK customers only. Register using the promo code BETFRED60, deposit and place first bet of £10+ on Sports (cumulative Evens+) within 7 days of registration. First bet must be on Sports. £20 in Free Bets to be used on Sports, £10 in Free Bets to be used on Lotto and 50 Free Spins (20p per spin) credited within 48 hours of bet settlement. Further £20 in Free Bets credited 5 days after settlement. Bonuses have a 7-day expiry. Payment restrictions apply. SMS verification and/or Proof of I.D and address may be required. Full T&Cs apply. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Welcome Bonus - Bet £10 Get £60
Get £60 bonusGo to Betfred
BetRegalRating: 4.5/5
BetRegal review
  • Many betting markets
  • Cash-out option is active
  • Superb website design
  • Fantastic casino section
New customers only. Max one £10 Free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller, Paypal not eligible. T&Cs apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
£10 Bonus for New Players
Get £10 bonusGo to BetRegal
FitzdaresRating: 4.5/5
Fitzdares review
  • Reputable and licensed brand
  • Excellent horse racing section
  • Outstanding Club in Central London
  • Good odds
New customers only aged 21+. Minimum deposit £10. Qualifying bet must be placed at odds of evens (2.00) or greater. Free bet is matched up to £30, credited within 24 hours and expires after 7 days. Additional T&Cs apply. Please bet responsibly. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Bet £30 & Get £30 Bonus
Claim your BonusGo to Fitzdares
10betRating: 4.5/5
10bet review
  • Good welcome offer
  • Active cash-out option
  • Plenty of sports
New bettors get 50% of deposit up to £50; Once per household; Min deposit £15 (no Skrill/Neteller); Wager 8 times deposit + bonus, max qualifying bet equal to initial bonus amount; valid for 60 days; Min odds of 4/5 on singles or 2/5 per acca leg; Some bet types excluded; See full terms; 18+ begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
50% up to £50 for UK players
Claim your BonusGo to 10bet
VStarBetRating: 4.6/5
VStarBet review
  • Big list of sports
  • Great betting features
  • Variety of casino games
  • Nice payment options
New Players Only. Minimum stake €/£/$10, minimum odds 1.5, stake not refunded. 10X wagering the winning from the free bet. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only wagering starts from real funds. Free bet is valid for 7 Days from issue. Maximum conversion: €/£/$20. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get AMOUNT Bonus
Welcome OfferGo to VStarBet
BetNeptuneRating: 4.5/5
BetNeptune review
  • Variety of sport markets
  • eSports and Virtuals in place
  • Cash-out option available
  • Helpful customer support
New Players Only. Minimum £10 qualifying bets, stake not returned. Free bet is a one-time stake of £10, minimum odds of 1.50, stake is not returned. 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Max conversion: £20. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full Terms apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Get £10 New Customers Offer
Get your OfferGo to BetNeptune
Parimatch UKRating: 4.7/5
Parimatch UK review
  • Licensed bookmaker and casino
  • Trusted brand
  • High odds on sports
  • Professional Support
New Customers opt in, deposit and bet £5 at odds 2.00+ within 7 days of registration; excludes cashed out bets. Get 3x £10 Free Bets, set events only at odds 2.00+. Bonuses expire in 7 days. Card payments only. Geo Restrictions. Additional terms for existing BetVictor customers apply. T&Cs apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Please gamble responsibly
bonus icon
Claim £30 Bonus
Claim your OfferGo to Parimatch UK
BetTargetRating: 4.5/5
BetTarget review
  • Competitive Odds
  • Great range of betting markets
  • Exclusive Features like Bet.Battle
  • Various Payment Methods
New Customers Only. Max one £10 Free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & PayPal not Eligible. T&Cs Apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Bet £10 & Get £10 Welcome Bonus
Claim your OfferGo to BetTarget
GatobetRating: 4.5/5
Gatobet review
  • Good welcome bonus
  • A ton of sport markets
  • Casino games in place
  • Helpful customer support
New Players Only. Minimum £10 qualifying bets, stake not returned. Free bet is a one-time stake of £30, minimum odds of 2, stake is not returned, maximum Conversion £30, 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Valid for 5 Days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full Terms apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Get £30 Bonus
Get your OfferGo to Gatobet
HopaRating: 4.5/5
Hopa review
  • Great selection of sports
  • Casino games available
  • Helpful customer support
  • Competitive odds
New customers only. Max one £10 Free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus toket with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & PayPal not eligible. Real money bets required. First bet required to opt into next tournament. T&Cs apply. 18+. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Sign Up & Get £10 Bonus
Get your OfferGo to Hopa
Genting BetRating: 4.5/5
Genting Bet review
  • Good looking website
  • Great selection of sports
  • Cash-out feature available
  • Helpful customer support
Sig. terms: New customers only. First £10+ (£10 E/W) real money bet at odds of 2.0+ qualifies. £10 free bet credited following bet settlement and to be used on sports. Stake not returned, use within 7 days. begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
Sign Up & Get £/€10 Bonus
Get your OfferGo to Genting Bet
BetitonRating: 4.5/5
Betiton review
  • Generous bonuses
  • VIP program for punters
  • Lots of features for Sports & Casino
  • Great payment methods
New Customers only. Max one £10 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & Paypal not eligible. T&CS APPLY. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
€/£10 Free Bet for New Players
Welcome OfferGo to Betiton
MoPlayRating: 4.5/5
MoPlay review
  • Rich Sports betting section
  • High Odds
  • A lot of betting features
  • Mobile apps
18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get £30 Welcome Bonus
Get your BonusGo to MoPlay
MatchbookRating: 4.5/5
Matchbook review
  • Good payment methods
  • Allows easier access to mobile betting games without the need of a browser
New Customers Only. Sign-up using bonus code "Matchbook15" and place a bet of £10 or more as your first bet. When it settles, we will give you £10 in bonus funds to bet on Exchange and £5 on Saturday to bet on multiples. The first bet and bonus funds must be placed at odds of 1.8 or more to be eligible. The bonus funds must be rolled over once at odds 1.8 or more so they can be withdrawn. This offer is only available to users who deposit via bank cards. 18+ T&C apply |begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Bet £10 Get £15 Signup Offer
Claim £15 BonusGo to Matchbook
SkybetRating: 4.5/5
Skybet review
  • Amazing sportsbook
  • Offers a welcome bonus for new customers
  • Provides applications for iOS and Android
FIRST SINGLE & E/W BET ONLY. ODDS OF 1/1 OR GREATER. 4 X £5 BET TOKENS. FREE BET STAKES NOT INCLUDED IN RETURNS. FREE BETS ARE NON WITHDRAWABLE. NO FREE BET EXPIRY. ELIGIBILITY RESTRICTIONS. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£20 Welcome Offer
Get £20 bonusGo to Skybet
Mobile WinsRating: 4.4/5
Mobile Wins review
  • Excellent website design
  • Rich Sportsbook section with betting options
  • Cash out feature
  • Live streaming video
New Players Only. Minimum stake £10, minimum odds 1.5, stake not returned. 10X wagering the winnings from the free bet. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Free bet is valid for 7 Days from issue. Max conversion: £20. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full Terms apply. | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk
bonus icon
100% up to £/€/$10
Claim £/€/$10 bonusGo to Mobile Wins
Bet DukesRating: 4.4/5
Bet Dukes review
  • Awesome bonus campaign
  • Lots of sports markets
  • Great odds to choose from
New Players Only. Minimum £/€10 qualifying bets, stake not returned. Free bet is a one-time stake of £/€10, minimum odds of 1.5, stake is not returned. 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering starts from real funds. Max. conversion: £/€20. Valif for 7 Days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get up to €/£10 Free Bet as a New Player
Get €/£10 BonusGo to Bet Dukes
Sporting IndexRating: 4.4/5
Sporting Index review
  • Trusted and Licensed brand
  • Great betting exchange
  • High odds at the Sportsbook
  • Various bonuses
New Spreads clients get £75 (non-withdrawable) to Spread bet with. Keep what you win. Any losses over £75 are your liability. Market restrictions & 7-day time limit applies. Account opening subject to suitability checks. Spread betting involves risk. Losses can exceed deposits | 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£75 Welcome Offer
Claim £75 BonusGo to Sporting Index
SportNationRating: 4.4/5
SportNation review
  • Great selection of sports
  • Cash-out and live streaming
  • Live betting available
  • Helpful customer support
Key Terms: New customers only. Place the 5 specified bets to earn Free Bets. Each leg must have minimum odds of 1.8 (4/5). Applies to bets on sport only. Valid once per customer. Free Bet valid for 7 days. Free Bet max winnings is 20x Free Bet stake. Free Bets must be accepted in popup messages once their qualifying bets have settled. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get your OfferGo to SportNation
LucksterRating: 4.4/5
Luckster review
  • Great range of sports betting options
  • Cash out is available
  • Wide array of casino games
New Customers Only. Max one £10 Free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & PayPal not eligible. T&Cs Apply. 18+ begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£10 Welcome Offer
Claim your BonusGo to Luckster
LuckLandRating: 4.3/5
LuckLand review
  • Great Variety of Sports betting options
  • Good Odds
  • Cash out feature is available
  • Different Payments accepted
T&Cs apply. This offer is for new customers only and is available once per household. 18+. Max Free Bet Token amount: £10. Min deposit: £10. Minimum wagering on Sport to activate the Free Bet Token: £15. Restrictions Apply. begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£10 Free Bet
Claim your OfferGo to LuckLand
MrRexRating: 4.3/5
MrRex review
  • Great selection of Sports betting markets
  • Wide range of Casino games
  • Cash out function is available
New customers only. Max one £10 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed at odds of 1/1 or greater. Paid as bonus token with min 4/5 odds req. Skrill, Neteller & Paypal not eligible. T&C's apply. 18+ | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
£10 Free Bet Welcome Bonus
Claim your BonusGo to MrRex
BetSteveRating: 4.3/5
BetSteve review
  • List with many sports events
  • Attractive casino section
  • Many live dealers games
  • Live Streaming is available
New Players Only. Minimum stake €/£/$10, minimum odds 1.5, stake not refunded. 10X wagering the winning from the free bet. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only wagering stats from real funds. Free bet is valid for 7 Days from issue. Maximum conversion: €/£/$20. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get £/€/$10 as a Sign-up Promo
Get £/€/$10 bonusGo to BetSteve
SwishBetRating: 4.2/5
SwishBet review
  • Extraordinary website design
  • Great sportsbook
  • Professional and reliable customer support
  • Huge range of casino games
New Players Only. Free bet is a one-time stake of £10, minimum odds of 1.5, stake not returned. 10X wagering the winnings. Wagering occurs from real balance first. Wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only, wagering stats from real funds. Max conversion: £20. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Excluded Skrill deposits. 18+ T&C apply | begambleaware.org | gamstop.co.uk | Play Responsibly
bonus icon
Get £10 Bonus
Get £10 BonusGo to SwishBet

Show More

The National Hockey League (NHL), the Stanley Cup, and other minor leagues offer punters plenty of ice hockey betting opportunities. To take advantage of this growing betting industry, it’s essential that you check out the leading online hockey betting sites. Today, most sportsbooks list ice hockey as one of its covered sports. Each operator offers bettors promising bonuses, competitive odds, and helpful betting tools and resources.

Just like the choice of an online casino, the selection of a bookmaker should be based on several parameters. For example, you’ll need to check its approved remote license and verify if it accepts real money bets from players from your country. Also, you’ll need to review the leagues and matches covered and how competitive the ice hockey betting odds are. It also helps if the website accepts in-play betting or offers other tools and resources, including live stream, multiple odds format and calculator, mobile app, and hockey sports betting tips and guides.

If comparing sportsbooks is challenging, you can always rely on websites that list and review these ice hockey betting sites for punters. Our team covers the hockey sports betting industry like a pro, and we check and review these popular sites for you. By checking our list of hockey betting sites and tips, you can fully focus on what truly matters: following and betting on your favourite team!

Which Are the Most Popular Competitions?

ice hockey arena

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is the primary organization that governs all ice hockey leagues and contests and counts around 74 members. Ice hockey games, both at the amateur and professional levels, are played in different parts of the world and are popular in North America and Eastern Europe.

Although the sport is prevalent in regions with cold winters, it’s also growing in popularity in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. You can find plenty of tournaments and competitions that you can follow and bet on for these reasons. Listed below are the most popular ice hockey competitions you can bet on starting today.

Winter Olympics

The sport is one of the highlights of the Winter Olympics. Participating teams often field professional players of the NHL to improve their chances. And for many players, earning the gold medal in the Winter Olympics is the height of their professional careers.

World Championships

The championships are hosted every year with 16 national teams in participation. However, the World Championships are only for men’s ice hockey teams. This is the most essential annual ice hockey tournament and often attracts the best professional players in the sport. However, some national teams send younger NHL players or amateurs, including the United States. The most successful national team in the World Championship is the Russia/Soviet Union, with Canada, Finland, and Sweden as the other strong teams in this annual event.

National Hockey League (NHL)

The NHL is the most popular league in the world, and the games here are eagerly anticipated. This is staged in North America and features 30 ice hockey teams from the United States and Canada. There are two leagues in the NHL- the Western Conference and the Eastern Conference. The season starts in early October and runs until mid-April. After the regular season, there’s a 16-team playoff round before the Stanley Cup final. Some of the league’s most popular teams are the Montreal Canadiens, the Boston Bruins, the Detroit Red Wings, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the New York Rangers.

NCAA Ice Hockey Championships

Ice hockey is a popular sport in the National Collegiate Athletic Association or NCAA. Like basketball, ice hockey games also attract huge live audiences. The games are covered by leading US TV shows. In some cases, offshore licensed sportsbooks offer NCAA online hockey betting lines.

Swedish Hockey League (SHL)

Outside North America, the most popular league in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). Ice hockey is the country’s most popular sport, and it’s only natural that this is the most followed league. The successful Swedish ice hockey team that dominates in the World Championships mostly plays in this league. Also, the SHL is the most successful league in Western Europe and includes 14 teams that fight for the Le Mat Trophy.

NHL Betting – What Should You Know

The National Hockey League (NHL) is the most important league for sports in North America. Its popularity and influence extend to many European countries, including Scandinavia, Austria, Germany, and Russia. Thanks to its global reputation and solid following among fans, it’s natural among established sportsbooks to accept real money bets of ice hockey matches.

Just like other markets, NHL online hockey betting offers you plenty of opportunities to win big through popular bets, competitive odds, and betting tools and resources. Some popular NHL hockey bets are Game Winner, First Team to Score, and Point Spread. Players can also explore less common NHL bets like Anytime Scorer, Total Goals, Over/Under, Division and Conference, and the Stanley Cup winner.

In most betting sites, you’ll find two ways on how to bet on ice hockey games. You can put your money on pre-match or go for in-play hockey sports betting. In pre-match, you’ll place the hockey bets ahead of time. For example, you can put your money on the Game Winner or the Point Spread. On the other hand, in-play hockey betting allows you to place your bets even while the game is ongoing. The most popular NHL hockey bets in live hockey betting are Total First Period, Total Second, and Total Third. Keep in mind that in in-play betting, odds are updated in real-time to reflect the injuries, penalties, and changes in scores or momentum.

Aside from these general NHL betting tips, there are a few more strategies that you should keep in mind. Check out the following betting tips to improve your chances online.

Understand conference and divisions

As a punter, it’s essential to know how the league works. Understanding how teams are grouped can help plan your bets. There are two conferences in the league, the Western and Eastern Conferences, which count 32 teams as of 2021. There are four divisions for teams: North, West, Central, and East. There’s one division that’s home to the seven teams based in Canada. Some divisions are filled with good teams and great ice hockey players, so knowing the composition of each division can help punters make informed bets. It also helps to know all four divisions since the top four teams in each division qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs according to the new rules.

NHL Games Schedule

Under the latest league rules, each team will play an 82-game schedule. Traditionally, teams have an 82-game schedule, and 41 of these are played at home and the other 41 on the road.

Knowing the updated schedule of the teams can help you identify confidently assess the hockey sports betting lines. For example, most teams are stronger at home, and in these sports, fans are closer to the action, and they can get passionate about the game. A team with a great home record and a passionate fan base may be difficult to back against.

NHL Playoff Games

After the regular season comes to the NHL playoffs. The top four teams that scored the most points in each division get entry into the playoffs. These teams are ranked according to the accumulated points, and these are crucial during this stage of the tournament. In each round, teams play in a best-of-seven series.

The play-offs start with a Qualifying Round where the bottom eight playoff teams in each conference played in a best of 5 series to earn a place in the final rounds. In the First Round, the eight-ranked team after the qualifiers plays the first-ranked team in the playoffs. And the second-ranked goes up against the seventh-ranked. This serves as the playoff arrangement during the first round. For the Second Round, the winners will square off for the right to advance to the semifinals.

NHL Stanley Cup

After the completion of the semifinals, the top two teams moved on to the Stanley Cup Finals. In all rounds, from the First Round to the Semifinals, the higher-ranked team is given the home-ice advantage, and the four of the seven games played at home. This is why scores are collected, and teams are seeded just before the start of every round. During the Stanley Cup, the team that arrives with the most points gets the home-ice advantage.

The final game is between the two teams that earn a place in the Stanley Cup final match.

Short History and Facts

Ice hockey boasts a long and colourful history. Although the game’s origins have been contested for years, the International Ice Hockey Federation or IIHF has officially ruled that the first organized ice hockey game was played in Montreal, Canada, in 1875. Also, many sources have pointed to the Montreal Gazette as the first to publish the game’s rules for a wide audience. In some research, it was suggested that the first ice hockey games were played in England.

However, the modern ice hockey that we know today was primarily shaped by the ‘Canadian rules’. This development of the rules was followed by competitive games and the establishment of leagues. Some of the early leagues that were established were the Amateur Hockey Association of Canada (AHAC) in 1886, Ligue Internationale de Hockey Sur Glace (LIHG) in 1908, and the National Hockey Association in 1911, the precursor of what we know call the National Hockey League (NHL). The NHL was organized on November 26, 1917, and initially, the league counted four Canadian teams, hence the name ‘National’. Over time, the league accepted more teams to its roster, and by 2021, there are now 32 teams that are part of the league.

Final Thoughts

Ice hockey is one of the most exciting sports to follow thanks to a fast game played on the ice surface, frequent physical contact between players, and the support of a passionate fan base. This popularity of the game extends to ice hockey betting that’s now available in most online casinos and sportsbooks.

With online hockey betting, you don’t just follow or cheer on your favourite team. You’re also given a chance to bet on ice hockey betting lines and collect potential payouts. However, it’s still important to exercise care and due diligence when betting on ice hockey games. Make sure to register at reputable bookmakers and always read hockey picks and NHL betting tips before you wager real money.

FAQ

How to bet on hockey?

You need to sign up for a real money sportsbook account to access ice hockey betting lines and make a bet.

What are ice hockey betting lines?

This is a form of wagering where the sportsbook set odds to determine the favourite and underdog going into the match. The line then creates a margin or a line between the two teams, where there are two possible outcomes, and it sets the parameters of your wager.

What is NHL consensus picks?

This gives you an idea of how the betting public is placing their bets. For example, 78% of the bets are placed on the favourite to win the match.

Is it best to bet with the public or the NHL consensus picks?

No, it’s not always a smart move to put your money on the consensus pick instantly. It’s best to wait a while and see where the money and bets are moving.

What are NHL futures?

These are examples of NHL hockey bets where you put your money on a result, or even that will happen at a later time of the year. For example, you pick the winner of the Stanley Cup even if the regular season is just starting.

What does a puck line of -1.5 goals for the favourite and +1.5 for the underdog mean?

This means that the favourite hockey team must win by two goals for you to win the wager, while the underdog can win immediately or just lose by a goal.

Author

Oliver Melton
Oliver MeltonWith a keen eye for detail and a knack for languages, Oliver has been our go-to betting expert. He is highly skilled in reviewing and analysing bookmakers, casinos and eSports betting platforms. His editorial talent has made him an indispensable part of our team.