NHL Betting: The Best Online Sportsbooks in Rhode Island for Hockey

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the nation but was among the first to legalize sports betting after PASPA was struck down. Rhode Island launched retail betting on November 26, 2018, and online betting followed in September 2019. However, Rhode Island's sports betting market is highly restrictive: the state operates a lottery-controlled monopoly with only one online sportsbook (Sportsbook Rhode Island, powered by IGT) and two retail locations.

Is NHL Betting Legal in Rhode Island?

Yes, but only through Sportsbook Rhode Island. Rhode Island legalized sports betting on June 22, 2018. Retail sportsbooks opened November 26, 2018. Online betting launched September 2019.

Quick facts:

You must be 18 or older (one of the lowest sports betting age requirements in the nation, most states require 21+). The Rhode Island Lottery regulates all sports betting activity. Sportsbook Rhode Island is the only legal online sportsbook in the state. No other operators (FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, bet365) are licensed in Rhode Island. Full remote registration allowed since July 28, 2020 (previously required casino visit). Rhode Island permits betting on college sports, including in-state teams like Brown University, Providence College, URI, and Bryant. The Rhode Island Lottery takes 5.99% of all gambling winnings, plus 24% federal taxes apply.

Read more: Best Sports Betting Bonuses and Promos in Rhode Island

• Retail locations: Rhode Island has 2 retail sportsbooks at Bally's Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort (Lincoln) and Bally's Tiverton Casino & Hotel (Tiverton).
• Future outlook: March 2025, Rhode Island is seeking more sports betting competition when IGT's contract expires in 2026. A bill would invite larger operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM to apply for licenses.

Legal, monopoly betting with Sportsbook Rhode Island as the sole online operator.

Sportsbook Rhode Island: Rhode Island's Only Legal Option

• Operator: Rhode Island Lottery (in partnership with IGT and William Hill)
• Sportsbook Rhode Island is the only legal online sportsbook in Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Lottery partnered exclusively with IGT to provide sports betting. This monopoly structure was designed to maximize state revenue and maintain lottery control.
• Sportsbook Rhode Island offers standard NHL markets including moneylines, puck lines, totals, basic player props, and futures. The platform is powered by IGT, the same technology used in Las Vegas. While market depth is limited compared to DraftKings or FanDuel, core NHL betting options are available.
• Technology: IGT PlaySports platform (same technology powering several Las Vegas casino sportsbooks).
• Welcome offer: Check SportsBetRI.com for current promotions (limited compared to competitive markets).
• Best for: All Rhode Island hockey bettors, Sportsbook Rhode Island is the only legal option.

Shurzy Tip: Sportsbook Rhode Island uses IGT tech from Vegas, so the platform is solid. But you can't shop lines since it's the only book. Do your homework before betting, know what odds are fair based on your research.

Read more: NFL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Football Season

Understanding Rhode Island's Monopoly Model

Here's why Rhode Island chose one operator over many.

Why a Monopoly?

Rhode Island selected a lottery monopoly structure for state revenue control and regulatory simplicity. The Rhode Island Lottery partnered with IGT to provide a single sports betting platform. This arrangement allows the state to maintain full control, maximize revenue share, simplify regulatory oversight, and integrate with existing lottery infrastructure.

• Advantages: Streamlined market, one platform, simple for bettors. State control, Rhode Island Lottery maintains full oversight. Established technology, IGT is a proven provider. Consumer protection, single regulator ensures compliance. Low age requirement, 18+ (lower than most states).
• Disadvantages: No line shopping, can't compare odds across operators. Limited market depth, fewer prop options than national books. No competitive promotional pressure, fewer bonuses than multi-operator states. Single platform risk, if Sportsbook RI has issues, no alternatives exist. Restricted operator choice, no FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars.
• Future outlook: March 2025, Rhode Island legislators introduced a bill to open the market to additional operators when IGT's contract expires in 2026. If passed, major operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM could enter Rhode Island.

NHL Bet Types in Rhode Island

Sportsbook Rhode Island offers standard NHL markets. Here's what you can play.

Moneyline Betting

Pick the winner, straight up. Standard pricing structure.

Puck Line (-1.5 / +1.5)

Hockey's spread. Favorites must win by 2+ goals (-1.5), underdogs get a 1.5-goal cushion.

Shurzy Tip: Can't shop lines in Rhode Island. Compare Sportsbook RI's odds to your own analytical model to identify genuine edges. Focus on +EV opportunities since competitive pressure doesn't exist.

Total Goals (Over/Under)

Usually set between 5.5 and 6.5 goals per game.

Player Props

Anytime goal scorer, shots on goal (limited), saves (limited). Prop depth is less extensive than national sportsbooks.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About NBA Prop Betting

Period Betting

1st-period moneyline, 1st-period total available on select games.

Shurzy Tip: Period betting is clutch for tight games. If you're expecting a defensive slugfest, bet the first-period under instead of the full game. You dodge empty-net chaos and overtime coin flips.

Team & Game Props

Team total goals, both teams to score (select games). Available on Sportsbook Rhode Island.

NHL Parlays

Standard parlays combining multiple bets. Available on Sportsbook Rhode Island.

NHL Futures Betting

Stanley Cup winner, Conference winners, division winners. Available on Sportsbook Rhode Island.

Read more: NHL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Hockey Season

NHL Betting Bonuses & Promos in Rhode Island

Sportsbook Rhode Island offers limited promotions compared to multi-operator states. Here's what to watch for.

• Welcome Offer: Check SportsBetRI.com for current new player promotions. Promotional value is typically lower than competitive markets.
• Ongoing Promotions: Periodic odds boosts and promotional offerings may be available. Check the "Promotions" section of the app/website.
• Lottery Integration: Rhode Island Lottery players may find integrated promotions across lottery products.

Shurzy Tip: With only one operator, promotional value is limited. Focus on identifying solid betting opportunities based on your own analysis rather than chasing promotions. The 18+ age requirement is the real advantage here.

Expert NHL Betting Tips for Rhode Island Bettors

Here's how to bet smarter on hockey in Rhode Island's monopoly market.

1. Watch Goalie Announcements Closely: A backup goalie can flip a line 2-3 goals instantly. Check team sources 30 minutes before puck drop, you can't shop for better odds afterward.
2. Consider Back-to-Back Situations: Teams playing consecutive nights face fatigue. The team on night two of a back-to-back allows more goals. Factor this into totals and puck lines.
3. Shurzy Tip: Since you can't shop lines in Rhode Island, do all your research beforehand. Know what odds are fair based on national benchmarks and your analysis. Walk in with a plan.
4. Track Pace & Expected Goals (xG): Raw win/loss records can mislead. Expected Goals (xG) measures shot quality and predicts future performance. Free resources: Natural Stat Trick, Evolving Hockey.
5. Home-Ice Advantage Isn't Massive: NHL home advantage is modest, roughly 3-4% edge in win percentage. Don't overweight home teams.
6. Look for Underdog Value: NHL's low scoring creates frequent underdog wins. Moneylines and +1.5 puck lines often offer value overlooked by casual bettors.
7. Understand Your Limitations: Since Sportsbook Rhode Island is the only operator, you cannot shop lines. Compare odds to your own analytical model to identify genuine edges.
8. Monitor 2026 Market Expansion: Rhode Island may open to additional operators in 2026. Stay informed, expanded competition would improve odds and options.
9. Leverage Regional Knowledge: Rhode Island bettors near Boston can leverage knowledge of the Boston Bruins.

How to Start Betting on NHL Games in Rhode Island

Getting started is simple. Here's the play-by-play.

• Visit SportsBetRI.com or download the Sportsbook Rhode Island app. Create an account with accurate info (full name, DOB, address, last four of SSN). Must be 18+.
• Remote registration, you can sign up from anywhere in Rhode Island (no casino visit required since July 2020). Verify identity by uploading your driver's license or passport. Deposit funds via multiple methods accepted.
• Check promotions to review any available offers. Navigate to NHL/Hockey to find upcoming games. Place your bet through the app or website. Track results through your account.
• Alternative: Visit Bally's Twin River Lincoln or Bally's Tiverton for in-person betting.
• Beginner-friendly bets: Anytime goal scorer (lower variance), puck lines (better payouts), first-period unders (less chaotic).

Safe, Responsible Hockey Betting in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Lottery ensures Sportsbook Rhode Island complies with consumer protection laws. Your funds are protected, and identity verification prevents underage gambling.

Sportsbook Rhode Island offers deposit limits, wager limits, time-out periods, and self-exclusion options. Use these tools proactively.

Responsible Gambling Resources:

• Rhode Island Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• Gamblers Anonymous: Meetings throughout Rhode Island

If betting ever feels like a burden, reach out. Rhode Island's resources are confidential and free.

Never bet money you can't afford to lose. Avoid chasing losses. Track your bets. Stick to a plan. Separate betting funds from your everyday account.

Final Thoughts: Rhode Island's Best for NHL Betting

Rhode Island's sports betting market is highly restrictive, a state lottery monopoly with one legal online sportsbook (Sportsbook Rhode Island) and two retail locations.

Sportsbook Rhode Island is the only legal online option (no FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars). Must be 18+ to bet (one of the lowest age requirements nationally). Remote registration available since July 2020 (no casino visit required). IGT-powered platform, same technology used in Las Vegas. Two retail locations: Bally's Twin River Lincoln and Bally's Tiverton. Limited market depth, fewer props than national sportsbooks.