The Florida Panthers have successfully advanced to the Stanley Cup Final after their victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. They could soon be joined by the Edmonton Oilers, who need just one more win against the Dallas Stars to earn their spot and set up a repeat of last year`s Final matchup. The Stars, currently trailing 3-1 in the series, will be determined to defend their home ice and extend the series. Game 5 of the Western Conference Final is scheduled to take place in Dallas on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.
According to the latest consensus odds, the Dallas Stars are the favored team playing at home, with a money line of -130 (a $130 wager wins $100). The visiting Edmonton Oilers are listed as underdogs with a money line of +110 (a $100 wager wins $110). The projected total number of goals for the game (Over/Under) is set at 6, with slightly better odds favoring the Under at -115.
This guide will explain how and where you can place bets on NHL games, including the available online platforms for wagering on the NHL playoffs.
Where to Place NHL Bets
Betting on the NHL is possible through numerous online sportsbooks and their associated mobile applications. These platforms provide opportunities to wager on various games throughout the season and the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Types of NHL Wagers
When betting on NHL games, you have several options for placing your wagers:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team you believe will win the game outright, regardless of the score difference.
- Puck Line (Spread): This is similar to a point spread but specific to hockey, typically set at 1.5 goals. The favored team (-1.5) must win by two or more goals, while the underdog (+1.5) must either win the game or lose by only one goal.
- Total Goals (Over/Under): You bet on whether the combined total score of both teams by the end of the game will be above or below a number set by the sportsbook (e.g., Over 5.5 or Under 5.5).
- Prop Bets (Propositions): Wagers placed on specific events or outcomes within the game that don`t necessarily affect the final score, such as the number of goals a specific player scores, the number of shots on goal, or which team scores first.
- Parlay: Combining multiple individual bets (legs) into a single wager. For a parlay bet to win, every single leg within the parlay must be correct. This offers higher potential payouts but also carries higher risk.
- Live Betting: Placing bets on a game while it is in progress. The odds constantly change based on the action unfolding on the ice, offering dynamic betting opportunities.
Responsible Gaming Practices
It is crucial for bettors to recognize their limits and engage in responsible gambling. Reputable sportsbooks typically provide tools and resources to help users manage their betting activity, such as setting limits on time or wagers and options for self-exclusion. Resources for responsible gambling are available, and help can be found.