Master Ice Hockey: Moneyline vs Handicap

M

Betting on ice hockey is an exhilarating experience, offering fans an additional layer of excitement as they watch their favorite teams battle it out on the ice. Two of the most often used betting strategies among the several ones are understanding moneyline and handicap bets. Both strategies satisfy various kinds of bettors and have special advantages. Knowing these techniques can help you decide more wisely and raise your chances of winning.

What Is Moneyline Betting?

One of the easiest and most direct kinds of betting available in ice hockey is moneyline betting. Whether the score is low or high, a moneyline bet is just a bet on which side will win the game. Not one considers point spreads or other criteria.

For instance, the odds would appear to be this if Team A is playing Team B:

  • Team A: -150;
  • Team B: +130;

Here’s what these numbers mean:

  • The favorite is indicated by a negative number (-150). To win $100 you will have to gamble $150.
  • The underdog is shown by a positive number, +130. Your $100 bet would pay $130.

Beginners will find moneyline betting ideal since it is simple. It’s also an excellent choice for games where you think one team clearly dominates.

What Is Asian Handicap Betting?

Though it is somewhat more complicated, Asian handicap betting gives more freedom. This kind of spread betting levels the playing field by giving one team a virtual edge (or disadvantage) prior to the game commencement. This approach helps balance the odds; hence, it is especially helpful in games when there is a big favorite.

What Is Moneyline Betting?

A normal Asian handicap in ice hockey could resemble this:

  • Team A scored -1.5;
  • Team B scored +1.5.

Should you place a wager on Team A (-1.5), your odds of winning depend on their at least 2-goal performance. Should you place a wager on Team B (+1.5), your stake will be paid off should Team B either lose by only one goal or win entirely.

For seasoned bettors seeking to minimize risk and maximize possible returns, Asian handicap betting is perfect. It’s also a wonderful strategy to gamble on games where team strength differs significantly.

Moneyline vs Handicap: Which Should You Choose?

Your strategy, degree of experience, and the particular game will determine which of Moneyline and Asian Handicap betting best fits you. These elements should help you to evaluate:

Risk vs Reward

Though they are simpler, moneyline bets could have smaller odds, particularly if one is betting on favorites. Conversely, Asian handicap bets demand a greater knowledge of the game but might offer higher odds by including spread requirements.

Game Dynamics

Should you think the game will be hotly contested, an underdog Moneyline bet could pay off handsomely. Asian handicap betting can help the odds seem more beneficial for games with a strong favorite.

Your Expertise

For its simplicity, beginners sometimes like moneyline betting. Seasoned bettors who grasp team dynamics and scoring patterns could find Asian handicap betting’s strategic flexibility appealing.

Spend some time researching, keep your discipline, and apply strategic thinking to your bets. By understanding moneyline and handicap bets enable you to maximize every ice hockey game regardless of experience level as a bettor.

About the author

Alexey Shelepov
By Alexey Shelepov