Tips for Betting on the Long Shot in the NHL

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

Why Long Shots Matter in NHL Betting

The NHL is tighter than most leagues. Even the lowest-ranked teams win 30+ games a season. That makes NHL betting lines on underdogs worth a look.

Sports betting odds reward risk-takers. A +200 underdog means a $100 bet returns $200 profit if they win. Sports betting sites know hockey is volatile, so they price long shots with big payouts.

Example: If the Arizona Coyotes are +220 against the Oilers, the payout is more than double your stake. Bettors who spot fatigue in Edmonton or a backup goalie starting can find value here.

Spotting Value in Sports Betting Odds

Not all long shots are worth it. Smart NHL betting means knowing when odds don’t match reality. Sportsbooks shade lines toward popular teams because casual fans load up on favorites.

Sports betting online gives sharp bettors a chance to find mispriced underdogs. Look for:

• Teams on home ice with plus-money odds.
• Matchups where goalies are evenly matched.
• Travel spots where favorites may be tired.

These are prime spots for sports betting picks on underdogs.

NHL Betting Lines: Reading Underdog Pricing

NHL betting lines are posted with moneylines, puck lines, and totals. For long shots, moneyline is the cleanest play. But puck lines (+1.5) can offer safer value.

Example: Senators +180 moneyline vs. Bruins. Puck line shows Senators +1.5 at -150. If Ottawa loses 3-2, the puck line bet still wins. Sports betting apps make it easy to see both.

NHL best bets often combine a mix of puck line safety and moneyline risk.

NHL Best Bets Today and Long Shot Strategies

When looking for NHL best bets today, underdogs show up in:

• Rivalry games where energy runs high.
• Teams with strong special teams units.
• Squads with underrated depth against a top-heavy favorite.

Sports betting promos sometimes target long shots too. Books may boost odds for underdog wins or offer insurance if your team loses in overtime. These promos make long-shot plays more bankroll-friendly.

Using Sports Betting Sites to Compare Underdogs

Different sportsbooks post different long shot prices. Sports betting sites may list the same team at +200, +210, or +220. That difference matters.

Sports betting online tools help bettors shop lines fast. Even a small edge over a season adds up. NHL betting today is about consistency as much as hitting big scores.

Example: Long Shot Parlay

Game 1: Blue Jackets +190 vs. Islanders
Game 2: Sharks +210 vs. Flames

A $50 parlay on both long shots returns more than $300 if both win. Sports betting apps highlight these parlays, but bettors should use them sparingly. Hitting one or two a season can cover multiple small losses.

Sports betting picks on long shots should focus on smart spots, not reckless parlays.

Live Betting and Long Shots

Live betting is one of the best ways to find value on underdogs. Sports betting apps update lines instantly during games.

Example: If the Ducks are +180 pregame and score first, their live line might move to +120. Bettors who jumped early lock in better odds. If they trail, live odds might stretch to +250, creating another opportunity.

NHL betting lines in live markets reward quick reactions.

Hockey Betting Factors That Boost Long Shots

1. Goalie matchups—hot goalies can steal games.
2. Penalty kill units—strong defense against elite power plays.
3. Schedule spots—favorites on a back-to-back are vulnerable.
4. Injuries—missing a top scorer makes a favorite less reliable.

Sports betting sites list these stats daily. NHL best bets today often come from finding underdogs with hidden advantages.

Sports Betting Promos for NHL Long Shots

Sportsbooks love marketing underdogs. Common promos include:

• Boosted odds on long-shot teams.
• “Bet $10, win $100 if your underdog scores.”
• Overtime insurance on moneyline bets.

For hockey betting fans, these promos lower the risk of chasing underdogs. Sports betting picks backed by promos give more cushion for losses.

When Not to Bet Long Shots

Not every plus-money line is worth it. Avoid:

• Teams starting inexperienced backup goalies.
• Road teams on long losing streaks.
• Matchups where talent gaps are too wide.

NHL betting today requires discipline. Long shots are profitable only when backed by real advantages.

The Bottom Line

Betting on long shots is part of the fun in NHL betting. Sports betting apps and sites give fans endless chances to back underdogs with big payouts. The key is knowing when odds don’t match reality.

Look for goalie edges, schedule spots, and promos that boost value. NHL best bets today often come from long shots that casual fans ignore.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.

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