You can make a futures bet on the chances of an NHL team to make the playoffs. Futures bets are wagers placed on events that will happen at some point later in the season, not a single game or performance. These are bets on a more significant outcome that have yet to be decided.
Futures odds are typically available before and during the season, but the odds are constantly in flux. They change based on what’s happening in and around the sport, including team performances, roster changes, injuries, etc.
You can change your odds format at most NHL betting sites, depending on your preference.
As the name suggests, American odds are commonly used in the U.S., giving you a triple-digit or higher number with either a minus or plus sign.
The whole American odds (or moneyline odds) system is based on betting $100.
The numbers next to a minus sign (-) tell you how much you must bet to win $100. The plus symbol (+) beside the numbers tells you how much you can win by betting $100.
The negative sign indicates the favourite, while the plus sign points to the underdog.
The NHL Playoffs start after the regular season and include 16 teams—eight from the East and eight from the West—competing for the Stanley Cup, the NHL’s ultimate prize. The top three teams in each of the four divisions go straight in. Two wild card teams from each conference also qualify.
Once the bracket is set, teams face off in best-of-seven series over four rounds. Higher seeds get home-ice advantage. The team that wins all four rounds is crowned the Stanley Cup champion.
Our team includes experts with decades of combined experience in sports and sports betting.
We synthesize odds data from the leading providers to present the most up-to-date game odds and betting lines for all the leagues that matter to you. Pregame odds update in real time as information changes, allowing you to compare across various oddsmakers, also known as “lines shopping.” This ensures you’re getting the best price on your favorite markets.
When you find a price you like, our custom odds comparison tool will take you directly to the betting site you chose—and automatically apply our exclusive welcome offer if you’re a new customer.
These odds help inform our experts’ daily picks and tips to help you make the most informed bets possible.
