Does Overtime Count in Hockey Betting?

Hockey is an exciting and fast-paced sport, and hockey betting adds another layer of thrill. If you are new to hockey betting, you might be wondering: does overtime count in hockey betting?

Understanding how overtime affects different types of bets is essential for making informed wagers. In this article, we will break down how overtime impacts various hockey betting markets and help you avoid common mistakes when placing bets.

Hockey betting is popular because of the game’s unpredictability. Fans enjoy predicting outcomes and placing wagers on various bet types. However, before placing any bets, it’s crucial to understand how overtime impacts the result. The question of whether overtime counts in hockey betting can affect your decisions. Let’s dive into how this works and why it matters to bettors.

General Rules of Hockey Betting

To answer the question clearly, you need to first understand the basic rules of hockey betting. In most cases, hockey bets are based on the final score at the end of the game. However, overtime (or extra periods) is handled differently depending on the type of bet you are placing.

Regulation time typically refers to the standard three periods (usually 60 minutes). If the score is tied after regulation, the game goes into overtime. But, not all bets account for overtime or shootouts. To avoid confusion, it is essential to know the specific type of bet you are placing.

How Overtime Affects Different Bet Types

Let’s break down how overtime influences various types of bets.

Moneyline Bets

In moneyline bets, you are simply betting on which team will win the game. This includes the outcome after overtime and shootouts. If the game goes into extra periods, the winner is decided based on the final score, no matter how long it takes. So, overtime counts in this type of bet.

For example, if the game is tied after three periods and one team wins in overtime, your bet on that team will be a winner.

Puck Line Bets

Puck line betting is similar to point spread betting in other sports. The favorite team is typically given a -1.5 goal advantage, and the underdog is given a +1.5 goal advantage. The goal margin must be met for your bet to win.

In puck line bets, overtime counts. If the favorite team wins by a single goal in overtime, the underdog would cover the puck line. For instance, if a team is up 3-2 and wins 4-3 in overtime, the underdog with +1.5 would be the winner.

Totals (Over/Under) Bets

When betting on the total goals scored in a game (the Over/Under), overtime goals are included in the final tally. If you bet on the total score to go over or under a specific number, any goals scored in overtime or shootouts count towards the total. For example, if the total was set at 5.5 goals, and the game ends 3-3 in regulation but 4-3 after overtime, your bet on the over would win.

Regulation-Time Bets

Regulation-time bets are the most straightforward. These bets focus only on the score at the end of the three regulation periods. Overtime does not count in these bets. If a game is tied at the end of regulation and goes to overtime, it won’t affect your bet. For instance, if you bet on a team to win in regulation and the game ends in overtime, your bet will be a loss, even if your team wins later.

Live Betting

Live betting allows you to place wagers on the game as it progresses. Most live bets will include overtime. However, some sportsbooks may have specific rules where they exclude overtime from certain bet types. It’s essential to check the terms of the live betting market before placing a bet. In general, though, overtime does count in live betting, and any goals scored during overtime or shootouts will be included in the final result.

Sportsbook Variations: Why the Rules May Differ

Different sportsbooks may have varying rules about overtime, and this can affect your betting decisions. Some sportsbooks may offer bets that only count regulation time, while others include overtime. Always check the rules of the sportsbook you’re using to ensure you’re aware of how overtime is handled.

Common Mistakes Bettors Make Regarding Overtime

Many new bettors make the mistake of assuming all hockey bets include overtime. This can lead to frustration if your bet doesn’t go as expected. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not knowing the bet type: Be sure to check if the bet you’re placing includes overtime or regulation time only.
• Confusing live bets with pre-game bets: Live betting often includes overtime, but you need to check the terms.
• Assuming all sportsbooks have the same rules: Different sportsbooks may treat overtime differently, so always verify the rules beforehand.

Strategic Betting: Using Overtime to Your Advantage

Knowing how overtime works in hockey betting can also help you develop a strategy. If you’re betting on a game and expect a close match, you might consider betting on a regulation-time win to get better odds. On the other hand, if you think the game is likely to go to overtime, betting on the moneyline or puck line could give you more value.

For example, if you’re betting on a team with strong overtime performance, you may feel more confident in placing a moneyline bet, knowing that overtime counts and that the team has a good chance of winning in extra periods.

In conclusion, overtime counts in hockey betting in most cases, especially in moneyline, puck line, and totals bets. However, for regulation-time bets, overtime is excluded. Always check the rules in your sportsbook to ensure you understand how overtime affects the specific bet you’re placing. With this knowledge, you can make smarter betting decisions and enjoy the excitement of hockey betting even more.