Best NHL Betting Sites and Apps December 2024

Best Sportsbooks for Online NHL Betting

Choosing the best sportsbook for your favorite sport can make all the difference. NHL betting is incredibly popular in the US, offering thrilling and intense action for bettors from the fall into the spring.

I’ve selected my top ten sportsbooks that provide a fun and engaging experience for NHL betting. 

1. FanDuel

FanDuel has quickly become one of my go-to platforms for NHL betting, especially when I’m on my phone. The app is very intuitive, and it’s no surprise it’s one of the highest-rated mobile apps out there.

I really like how the app is laid out—it’s clean, organized, and easy to navigate. Even if you’re new to betting, placing a bet on FanDuel feels pretty straightforward.

FanDuel’s NHL section is well-stocked, with a great range of ongoing and upcoming games. I appreciate how they clearly display all the current odds, making it easy to find what I’m looking for. They offer great live betting options and some of the most competitive odds in the market. 

FanDuel also has some interesting, more in-depth NHL betting markets, like team points for the season and potential awards, which add a bit of variety beyond the more standard NHL bets you find at most sportsbooks. Another highlight is the player props, offering more quantity than I’ve seen on any other platform.

All in all, FanDuel is my choice for NHL betting, especially if you’re after an easy-to-use platform with a diverse selection of betting options.

» Check out our complete review of FanDuel Sportsbook.

Key Selling Points:

✅ Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins
✅ Intuitive platform with a top-rated mobile app
✅ Real-time stats for live player prop bets

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2. bet365

bet365 is my runner up for NHL betting, offering a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat. The platform really stands out with its promotions. There’s a 100% parlay boost you can use for NHL bets, which can double your winnings. You can also cash out your winning bets early, which is a nice touch.

Beyond the promos, bet365 is just a solid all-around sportsbook. The odds are competitive, and the live betting experience is top-notch, whether you’re on desktop or mobile. I also appreciate the variety of markets they offer—it’s easy to find something interesting to bet on.

Customer support is available 24/7, which is reassuring if you ever run into any issues. Overall, bet365 is a great platform for NHL betting. It’s reliable, user-friendly, and packed with features that make betting on hockey a great experience.

» Read our full review of bet365.

Key Selling Points:

✅ $1,000 Safety Net Bet OR $150 in Bonus Bets with Promo Code: WSN365
✅ Excellent live betting experience on both desktop and mobile
✅ NHL-specific promos

Claim Your bet365 Bonus

3. Caesars Sportsbook

Caesars Sportsbook is a great choice for NHL betting. One of the first things you’ll notice is how clean and easy it is to navigate. Whether you’re on the website or the app, everything is laid out in a way that makes placing bets straightforward.

For NHL action, Caesars has plenty of betting options, and their live betting feature is super smooth, with real-time updates that keep you right in the action. It’s easy to find what you’re looking for, and the platform just feels solid all around. 

Caesars covers all the bases with a wide range of NHL betting options, including moneyline, puck line, and totals, with smooth live betting to keep you engaged. Parlays are also very easy to put together and they’re constantly running promotions to boost your odds - including on NHL games. 

What I really like about Caesars is their loyalty program. As you bet on NHL games, you’re earning Rewards Credits that can be used for various perks, including both online betting bonuses and discounts at real life Caesars resorts. It’s a nice bonus if you’re a regular bettor.

All in all, if you’re into NHL betting and want a sportsbook that’s both user-friendly and rewarding for regular players, Caesars is definitely worth checking out.

» Discover more in our detailed review of Caesars Sportsbook.

Key Selling Points:

✅ Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Bets with Promo Code: WSN1000
✅ Comprehensive and clean website and app
✅ Top tier loyalty program 

Claim Caesars Sportsbook Bonus

4. BetMGM

BetMGM is another great option for NHL betting. What really stands out to me is how well-designed the software is. It’s one of the nicest and smoothest platforms I’ve used, making it easy to get into the action.

One of my favorite features is the media section, where you can watch live sports action unfold right above the bet slip. It adds an extra layer of excitement, especially when you’re betting live. BetMGM offers great odds, and their parlay builder is easy to use, making it simple to put together your bets.

There are some nice touches in the NHL section that improve the user experience, too. I love that you can click the star beside any game to save it, so that you’ll get updates when it begins. It’s also great that BetMGM has the license to use the real team logos, which makes the experience feel that bit slicker.

Another highlight is their MGM Rewards program, which is right up there with Caesars’ in terms of value and includes discounts and perks at in-person MGM Resorts. If you’re looking for a sportsbook that’s both visually appealing and loaded with exciting features, BetMGM is definitely a fantastic choice for your NHL bets.

» Explore our comprehensive review of BetMGM Sportsbook.

Key Selling Points:

✅ Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets with Promo Code: WSNSPORTS
✅ Well designed platform 
✅ Excellent MGM Rewards 

Claim Your BetMGM Bonus

5. BetRivers

BetRivers is a great choice for NHL betting, especially if you’re new to the game. The platform is really beginner-friendly, making it easy to find your way around and place your bets without any hassle.

One thing I really appreciate about BetRivers is how close everything is— the main odds section, live betting, and futures are all just a tab away from each other. This makes it super convenient to switch between different types of bets. 

BetRivers offers daily odds boosts for selected bets, which very often include NHL matches during the regular season and playoffs. It’s also an excellent choice for hockey fans interested in the international game - you’ll find tabs for World Championship and the top Scandinavian and European leagues as well as the NHL. 

Although the software design isn’t quite as sophisticated as my top picks, BetRivers is still a great choice for anyone looking for a simplified beginner friendly sportsbook to bet on NHL. 

» You can find out more in our full BetRivers review.

Key Selling Points:

✅ Second Chance Bet up to $500
✅ Beginner friendly platform
✅ Daily odds boosts

Claim BetRivers Bonus

6. DraftKings

DraftKings is one of the most comprehensive platforms out there. It’s a really versatile sportsbook, with a big selection of betting markets and other features you won’t find at average sportsbooks.

This is very much apparent in the NHL section. For instance, DraftKings has come up with a special, season-long bet for Alex Ovechkin to score his 895th career goal during the 2024/25 regular season. This is not a standard bet you’ll find at other sportsbooks, and shows how DraftKings goes the extra mile for NHL fans.

They also have NHL betting guides, explanations of the major markets, and a news tab to keep bettors up to date with the latest NHL news. 

On top of NHL betting, DraftKings also offers DFS (Daily Fantasy Sports), an online casino, poker, and more. It’s a one-stop shop for everything you might want, which is a big plus if you like to switch things up.

» Check out our detailed DraftKings review

Key Selling Points:

✅ Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets instantly
✅ Ongoing promos are top tier
✅ Comprehensive platform with DFS, online casino, poker and more

7. BetFred

BetFred has been a trusted name in the betting world for over 50 years, starting in the UK and making its way to the US in 2020. The platform has a traditional sportsbook vibe, which feels familiar and comfortable if you’re not looking for anything too flashy.

What I like about BetFred is its simplicity. The site doesn’t try to overwhelm you with features; instead, it focuses on providing a straightforward betting experience. This makes it a great option if you’re new to NHL betting or just prefer a no-nonsense approach.

Navigating the NHL section is easy. You can find all the current and upcoming games just under the popular tab, with a clear list of options right in front of you. If you’re looking for something specific, the leagues and competitions are neatly organized in a separate tab, making it easy to find exactly what you need.

BetFred may not have the most cutting-edge features, but it does offer consistent promotions and reliable customer support tailored to your state. It’s a solid choice for anyone who values simplicity and straightforward betting without all the extra frills.

» Explore our comprehensive review of BetFred Sportsbook.

Key Selling Points:

✅ No Sweat First Bet worth up to $105
✅ Simple, well developed platform
✅ State-specific customer support

8. HardRock Bet

HardRock Bet impresses with its sleek design and intuitive interface, but the real highlight is its range of parlay options, perfect for NHL bettors.

They offer pre-built Same Game Parlays (SGPs) that make it easy to bet on multiple outcomes within the same game. Even if you don’t end up choosing to bet one of the SGPs they come up with, I found them useful for providing inspiration for my own parlays. 

If you’re looking for more flexibility, the Flex Parlay lets you lose a few legs and still come out a winner, adding a safety net to your bets.

For those wanting to maximize their strategy, the SGP Max allows you to include Same Game Parlays in larger multi-game parlays, giving you more chances to win big.

If parlays are your thing, HardRock Bet is definitely worth considering for NHL betting.

» Discover more in our detailed review of HardRock Bet Sportsbook.

Key Selling Points: 

✅ Second Chance Bet up to $100
✅ Modern design and smooth interface
✅ Great parlay options

9. ESPN BET

ESPN BET is one of those platforms that just feels right when you’re using it. The interface is smooth, and everything is laid out exactly where you’d expect it to be, making it easy to navigate.

The hockey section might be a bit harder to find than normal in the drop-down menu, but once you’re there, it’s a breeze to explore. 

Whether it’s ongoing games, futures, or specific competitions, everything is right at your fingertips. I also like the fact that there is a search bar, so you can type in your favorite NHL team or player to check if there are any upcoming bets available. 

One feature I really appreciate is ESPN BET’s dedicated section for boosts, so you never miss out on a promo. It’s my first stop during the NHL season, to see if any games are boosted that week. 

ESPN BET is sleek and, honestly, a bit underrated in the betting world. With constant ongoing promotions and a user-friendly design, it’s definitely worth checking out for NHL betting.

» Read our full review of ESPN BET

Key Selling Points:

✅ $1,000 Bet Reset
✅ Attractive black-on-green interface
✅ ESPN-exclusive content & analysis

NHL Betting Sites Compared

See how my favorite NHL betting sites compare:

How Do I Get Started Betting on NHL?

Betting on NHL games is a great way to get more involved in the action on the ice. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my own experience to help you get started.

1. Research and Choose Your Sportsbook

The first step is to find a sportsbook that fits your needs. I looked at all the top NHL betting sites in the USA, focusing on their NHL-specific features, odds, and overall user experience. After some research, I found that FanDuel was my favorite due to its mobile-friendly design and wide range of betting options. 

However, it’s important to explore different sites and find the one that makes sense for you. The best way to do this is to check out our reviews, which go in-depth on all the top US sportsbooks.

2. Register for an Account

Once I decided on FanDuel, I headed to the sportsbook section and clicked on the green "Join Now" button in the top right corner. FanDuel immediately prompted me to select my state, which led me directly into the registration process. I filled in my details, including my name, email address, date of birth, and created a secure password. The process was quick and straightforward, making it easy to get started.

If you decide on a different site, the registration process should look very similar.

3. Complete Verification

After registering, I needed to verify my identity, which is a standard requirement for legal betting. FanDuel asked for a photo ID and proof of address, which I uploaded directly through their platform. The instructions were clear, and the process didn’t take long. This step ensures that your account is secure and that you’re eligible to place bets.

4. Deposit Funds

With my account set up, it was time to deposit funds. I navigated to the banking section, where I found multiple deposit options, including credit cards and PayPal. I selected PayPal, entered the amount I wanted to deposit, and signed into my PayPal account to confirm the payment. The funds were available in my account almost instantly. It was a smooth and hassle-free experience.

5. Claim Your Sign-Up Bonus

One of the perks of joining FanDuel was their generous sign-up bonus. After making my first deposit, I took advantage of their current offer of $200 in bonus bets. Welcome bonuses are a big part of how sportsbooks market themselves to new users. It’s important to read the terms and conditions to understand how these bonuses work and to make sure you’re getting the most out of them.

Check out our reviews to find the latest welcome offers at each sportsbook.

6. Place Your Bets

With my account funded and bonus claimed, I was ready to place my first NHL bet. I headed to the NHL section of FanDuel, where I could easily browse through the upcoming games and different betting options. I decided on a simple moneyline bet, entered my stake, and confirmed my wager. FanDuel’s platform made it easy to review and finalize my bet using their bet slip feature.

7. Withdraw Winnings

If your bet wins, withdrawing your winnings is similarly straightforward. Head back to the cashier or banking section of your sportsbook, type in the amount you want to withdraw and choose your preferred method. Remember that many sportsbooks require you to use the same method to withdraw that you did to sign up.

What Are The Most Popular Betting Markets for NHL?

There are lots of ways to bet on the NHL, and I’m covering them all in this section. Understanding these can help you make better choices when placing your bets. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key options available at NHL betting sites.

Moneyline

The moneyline is the simplest type of bet in NHL betting. In this case, you are simply picking which team will win an individual game. For example, if the Boston Bruins are playing the Toronto Maple Leafs, the odds might look like this:

• Boston Bruins: -150

• Toronto Maple Leafs: +130

If you bet on the Bruins, you would need to wager $150 to win $100. If you bet $100 on the Maple Leafs and they win, you would win $130.

Puck Line

The puck line in NHL betting is similar to a point spread in other sports. Usually set at 1.5 goals, this bet gives a slight edge to the underdog. For instance:

• Boston Bruins -1.5 (+160)

• Toronto Maple Leafs +1.5 (-180)

If you bet on the Bruins, they need to win by at least two goals. If you bet on the Maple Leafs, you win if they either win the game or lose by just one goal.

Over/Under (Totals)

The over/under bet is all about the total number of goals scored in the game by both teams combined. The sportsbook sets a number, and you decide if the actual total will be over or under that number. For example:

• Over 5.5 goals (-110)

• Under 5.5 goals (-110)

If the final score is 4-2, the total is 6, so an "over" bet would win. If the score is 3-2, the total is 5, so an "under" bet would win. You can benefit from a whole different perspective of the game, as you’re focused on the scoring action rather than the winning team.

Prop Bets

Prop bets focus on specific events within the game rather than the final score. These can include things like:

• First Goal Scorer: Betting on which player will score the first goal.

• Total Power Play Goals: Betting on how many power-play goals will be scored in the game.

• Will There Be Overtime: Betting on whether the game will go into overtime.

Prop bets can focus on player or team performance, milestones, specific actions, and even non-game-related elements. They add variety to NHL betting, giving you more ways to engage with the game.

Futures

Futures bets are long-term wagers on outcomes that will be decided later in the season. Common futures bets in the NHL include:

• Stanley Cup Winner: Betting on which team will win the Stanley Cup.

• MVP (Hart Trophy) Winner: Betting on who will be named the league’s MVP.

Futures bets are often placed before the season starts and can offer larger payouts if you pick a winner early on.

Live Betting

Live betting keeps the excitement going throughout the game and allows you to adjust your bets based on how the game unfolds. The odds change based on the action during the game, so you can react to what’s happening on the ice. For example, if a team is down but seems to be gaining momentum, you might get favorable odds to bet on them to come back and win.

Since it is a fast-paced game, hockey is a thrilling choice for live bettors. Penalties, power plays, and shifts in momentum can rapidly change the game, requiring quick decisions for each bet.

Parlays

A parlay is a combination bet. It allows you to combine multiple bets into a single wager. All individual bets have to win for the parlay to payout. While there is the potential for a higher payout, the risk is also higher. It is a popular choice among NHL bettors, especially during busy game nights with multiple matchups.

Our Best Tips for Betting on NHL

Betting on the NHL can be an exhilarating experience, especially if you’re familiar with the nuances of the game. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the ice, here are some essential tips to help you navigate NHL betting with confidence.

Understand the Basics: Before diving into specific strategies, it’s crucial to understand the basics of NHL betting. Familiarize yourself with common bet types like moneyline, puck line, and over/under (totals) betting. These are the foundation of NHL wagering and will be the basis of most bets you place.

Research Team Form and Injuries: One of the most important aspects of successful NHL betting is staying informed about team form and injuries. A team on a hot streak is likely to perform better, while a team with key players sidelined by injury may struggle. Always check the latest news and updates before placing your bets to ensure you’re making informed decisions.

Consider Home-Ice Advantage: Home-ice advantage is significant in the NHL. Teams tend to perform better at home, where they’re more comfortable and have the support of their fans. When placing bets, consider the impact of home-ice advantage, especially in closely matched games.

Monitor Goalie Matchups: In the NHL, the goaltender can be a game-changer. Pay close attention to who’s starting in goal for each team. A strong goalie can keep a game tight, while a weaker one can lead to a higher-scoring affair. Goalie matchups can significantly influence the outcome of a game and should be a key factor in your betting strategy.

Three-Way Puck Line Betting: Three-way puck line betting is an interesting and less common NHL market that offers an interesting twist on traditional betting. It resembles the three-way handicap betting found in soccer. In a three-way puck line bet, there are three possible outcomes, and overtime is not included:

1. Favorite at -1: The favorite must win by two or more goals.

2. Underdog at +1: The underdog can win or tie for the bet to cash.

3. Tie at +1: The game must end in a one-goal victory for either team.

This market can offer value, particularly if you anticipate a close game where the favorite might just edge out a victory by one goal. However, remember that this bet does not account for overtime, so it’s only based on the regulation time.

When to Bet the Puck Line: Puck line betting, which involves a spread of -1.5 goals, can be one of the most profitable bets in NHL wagering. The timing and choice of when to bet the puck line can greatly impact your success.

• Heavy Favorites: If a favorite’s moneyline odds are too low, consider betting the puck line. The puck line often offers better odds on the favorite, providing a route into betting on the best team without accepting very unfavorable odds.

• Evenly Matched Games: Betting the puck line on evenly matched teams can yield higher payouts, especially if the favored team wins by a margin of two or more goals. In an already close game, you can sacrifice some more risk for much better odds.

Live Betting NHL Puck Lines: Live betting on NHL puck lines is a popular strategy among hockey bettors, especially late in the game. As the game progresses, opportunities arise:

• Late Game Scenarios: Teams that are trailing by one or two goals often pull their goalie in the final minutes, increasing the chances of the leading team scoring an empty-net goal. This can help cover live puck lines of -1.5 or even -2.5.

• Act Quickly: To take advantage of these opportunities, you need to be proactive. Sportsbooks often take down betting lines with a few minutes remaining in the game, so timing is critical.

How We Rate Sites for NHL Betting in the US?

When it comes to NHL betting, I focus on the details that make a difference to hockey fans. NHL betting isn’t just about picking winners; it’s about finding a site that enhances your experience with the sport. Over the past week, I’ve dedicated at least an hour to each sportsbook on my list, digging deep into how well they cater to NHL bettors. 

From the excitement of a sudden-death overtime to the strategy behind puck line bets, I’ve looked for sites that truly capture the spirit of hockey.

Here’s how I break down my ratings:

1. User Experience: I examine how smoothly each site operates, particularly when navigating NHL sections. It’s important that finding your favorite team’s game or placing a bet on a specific player is quick and intuitive. I also test how responsive the site is during live games and how well it performs on both desktop and mobile. The best sites make it feel effortless to jump into the action, whether you’re at home or on the go.

2. Bets and Features: I explore the range of NHL betting options, including moneylines, puck lines, totals, and player props. Live betting is especially crucial in hockey, so I pay close attention to how quickly odds update in real-time and whether the site offers live streaming or detailed game stats. A top NHL betting site will cover everything from regular season matchups to the intensity of playoff hockey, offering plenty of ways to engage with every game.

3. Promos and Bonuses: The right promotion can add serious value to your betting experience, so I look for those that are tailored to NHL fans. Whether it’s a welcome bonus or a boost on Stanley Cup odds, I evaluate the quality and fairness of these offers. I always read the fine print to ensure promos are as good as they seem, focusing on those that genuinely enhance your betting strategy.

4. Banking: The ability to deposit and withdraw funds easily is key. I test every payment method available, from traditional credit cards to modern e-wallets, and assess the speed and security of transactions. A good NHL betting site should offer quick and hassle-free banking, letting you focus on the game rather than your finances.

5. Customer Support: Effective customer support can make or break your experience, especially when you’re placing live bets. I contact support teams with various questions to see how fast and helpful their responses are. Whether it’s through live chat, email, or phone, I expect top-notch service, particularly when you need assistance during a live NHL game.

Why Trust Us?

When it comes to finding the best NHL betting sites, you deserve reviews that are both honest and thorough. At WSN, we’ve built a team of experienced bettors who live and breathe the sports we write about, and we’re dedicated to giving you insights that truly matter.

Our approach is hands-on. We don’t just read about the features—we sign up, place bets, and interact with each platform as if we were everyday users. By spending at least two hours on every site, we get a real sense of what works and what doesn’t, uncovering details that might not be obvious at first glance.

We focus on what’s essential for NHL fans. Whether it’s the variety of betting options, the smoothness of live betting, or how easily you can find player stats, we dive deep to ensure you’re getting a site that meets your needs. Our goal is to guide you through the sometimes overwhelming world of online NHL betting with clear, straightforward advice.

What sets us apart is our commitment to accuracy and transparency. We keep our reviews up-to-date, reflecting any new features or changes in promotions so that you always have the most current information. When you read our reviews, you can trust that they’re based on genuine experience and that we’re here to help you make informed decisions for your NHL bets.

Gamble Responsibly

Betting on the NHL should be exciting and enjoyable, but it’s essential to keep it within healthy boundaries. At WSN, we promote responsible gambling and provide our readers with the tools and resources needed to stay in control.

Most reputable sportsbooks offer features that help you manage your betting activities responsibly. These tools can include setting deposit limits, activating time-outs, or even opting for self-exclusion periods if you need a break. Using these options can help you maintain a balanced approach to betting, ensuring it remains a fun and stress-free activity.

If you ever find that your gambling is becoming more than just a pastime, there are several organizations that offer support. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you feel things are getting out of hand:

• National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Visit ncpgambling.org or call 1-800-522-4700 for confidential support.

• Gambling Helpline: Access support at gamblinghelpline.org or by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

• Gamblers Anonymous: Find a local meeting or get online support at gamblersanonymous.org.

If betting begins to cause stress or impacts your finances, it’s crucial to pause and reassess. Keep your betting enjoyable by using the tools and resources available to you, and make informed decisions along the way. For additional guidance, visit our Responsible Gambling section and explore the support options provided by your sportsbook. Prioritize your well-being, bet smart, stay in control, and keep it fun.