The puck line is hockey's version of a point spread, set at -1.5 for the favorite and +1.5 for the underdog. It offers a different risk/reward profile than the moneyline.
How It Works
- Puck line favorite (-1.5): The team must win by 2 or more goals
- Puck line underdog (+1.5): The team can lose by 1 goal and still cover
The prices adjust significantly from the moneyline to reflect this:
- A -200 moneyline favorite might be -1.5 at +130 (harder to cover, so you get paid more)
- A +170 moneyline underdog might be +1.5 at -170 (easier to cover, so you pay more)
When to Use the Puck Line
Backing favorites: If you're betting a strong team -200 moneyline, the puck line at -1.5/+130 offers better value IF they're likely to win decisively. But it's a risk — many NHL favorites win 2-1 or in overtime.
Backing underdogs: A team you like +1.5 at -170 is more consistent than +170 moneyline, but costs more juice.
Overtime Considerations
Puck line bets usually settle after 60 minutes, not including OT. A team that wins in OT 2-1 covers the puck line. If they win 2-2 in OT (regulation tie), the underdog covers +1.5.
[Track your puck line vs. moneyline performance in Oddible →]
