Just when you thought the NHL was thrilling, just wait until you place a bet on a game.

In Illinois, you have the opportunity to place bets on the top hockey league in the world. With sports betting being legal in the state, the NHL is included in the list of available betting options.

You will have a wide selection of games to choose from starting in October during the regular season, all the way through the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Everything you need to know about NHL betting is included in our guide, from the top sports betting apps for online NHL betting to current NHL odds from Illinois online sportsbooks.

Live NHL odds at Illinois online sportsbooks

Below are the top NHL odds for today from the top online sportsbooks in Illinois. Discover the best puckline, moneyline, and totals lines for each NHL game, as well as the current Stanley Cup odds and player award odds. Simply click on any odds to be taken directly to the sportsbook, where you can claim your bonus and place your bets.

How to bet on the NHL in Illinois

Beginning NHL betting is straightforward, but it’s important to understand some key information before diving in.

• To sign up for an online sportsbook, it is crucial to select a reputable and licensed operator to avoid any potential problems. We have carefully reviewed and suggested a few operators for you to choose from. To register, just click on one of our provided links to take advantage of special sign-up bonuses. The account setup process is fast and simple, typically only taking a few minutes to complete.
• How can money be deposited and withdrawn at legal and regulated sportsbooks? Different operators offer various methods such as credit and debit cards, wire transfers, and PayPal. Transactions can be completed through the cashier function on online sportsbook websites and apps.
• Can sports betting be accessed through apps? Definitely, all major operators provide apps for both iOS and Android users. After creating an account through our affiliated bookmakers such as DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois or FanDuel Sportsbook Illinois, find the download link on the operator’s website. After downloading, log in on your mobile device to access legal sports betting at your convenience.
• Are there discrepancies in betting odds between online and in-person platforms? While the odds shown on online sportsbooks are usually the same as those at physical betting locations, fluctuations in the market can lead to sudden shifts in the lines. In general, the odds offered for online betting are just as competitive as those found at traditional sportsbooks.

Types of NHL bets

When it comes to NHL betting, there are multiple options to choose from. Let’s quickly review some of the most popular types of bets available.

• Moneyline betting is a simple wager where you choose between the favorite (with negative odds) and the underdog (with positive odds) to win.
• The Puck Line in NHL betting works similarly to a point spread in football or basketball, with the line set at 1.5. Bettors can choose to wager on the favorite with a 1.5 point deduction, or on the underdog with a 1.5 point addition.
• Synopsis: Bet on the total number of goals scored in a game with the option to wager on whether the final tally will exceed or fall below a set prediction made by bookmakers.
• Props, which is short for Propositions, provide additional betting opportunities for certain games. They typically center around the performance of individual players, but can also involve team performance or specific events that occur during the game.
• Live betting enables you to place bets on games as they are happening, with constantly changing odds on the outcome, props, and other options.
• Futures involve making season-long predictions, such as picking the Stanley Cup champion or the winner of the Vezina Trophy.
• Parlays involve combining multiple outcomes on a single betting slip, offering the possibility of significant risk and reward in the world of betting.

As we progress, we will provide more in-depth information on various bet types. Moneyline bets, totals, and props are good starting points for those who are new to hockey betting.

What about futures and prop bets in Illinois?

During the NHL season, there are numerous sports betting opportunities available. In addition to traditional game bets, you can also participate in futures bets for the entire season or explore prop bets for individual games.

The NHL futures market is centered on post-season events that will unfold after the season ends. Odds for various bets are typically released during the off-season, with many markets remaining active throughout the year. Some of the popular bets include:

• Stanley Cup winner
• Division and conference winners
• Playoff teams and non-playoff teams
• Total number of wins achieved by each team over the course of the regular season.
• Recipients of prestigious awards like the Hart, Vezina, and others.
• Top scorers in various categories such as goals and points.

Prop bets are extra wagers made on specific games. To see all available prop bets for a particular contest, simply click on the game listing. These props can be related to team and game scenarios, as well as individual player performances.

• Is the total number of goals and assists by Patrick Kane over or under 1.5?
• Will Jonathan Toews score a goal in the game – yes or no?
• Will Alex DeBrincat or Ryan Suter score more total points in the game?

When it comes to the game and team aspects, you may come across propositions regarding which side will have more shots in the game or if a shootout will be necessary to determine the outcome. Props offer a fantastic opportunity to further immerse yourself in the games you already plan on placing bets on.

What are the rules for betting on hockey online?

Most sports betting rules are generally consistent, but there can be differences between different operators. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific house rules before placing any bets.

To find sportsbook apps and online sites from regulated operators, check the “Help” section. Here are the key points to keep in mind when betting on NHL games.

• Understand the different categories of NHL bets that focus on regulation time, those that involve overtime, and a few that consider shootouts.
• Make sure you fully comprehend the specific bets you are making, whether they are related to the game or individual player performances, before finalizing your selections.
• Official NHL statistics are utilized in publications for settlement purposes.

It is important to note that rules may vary by operator in specific circumstances. Taking a few minutes to review the terms and conditions of the sportsbook where you are playing and understanding how NHL bets are listed can help prevent confusion in the future.

How to bet on NHL games live?

Experience the thrill of NHL live betting, where the action moves even faster than on the ice. Also known as in-game betting, these wagers allow you to place bets in real time based on the NHL betting odds and offerings that reflect the current on-ice action.

Live betting has become increasingly popular, with top operators like DraftKings and FanDuel offering excellent platforms for users to participate in. These leading companies provide great live betting features on mobile, allowing users to take advantage of various betting options.

• New odds for moneyline, puck line, and total bets have been released.
• Betting on specific time frames, power plays, and other aspects of the game.
• Opportunities for proposition bets based on player statistics and accomplishments.

Betting can be a thrilling and enjoyable experience, as well as a way to potentially make money. However, it is important to stay grounded and not let emotions cloud your judgment. Always remember to bet responsibly and never exceed your limits.

Most popular NHL team in Illinois 

Illinois boasts a devoted and enthusiastic fan base for the NHL, with the Chicago Blackhawks leading the way in popularity. The team competes in the Central Division of the NHL, where they face off against their seven biggest rivals.

• Dallas Stars
• Colorado Avalanche
• Nashville Predators
• St. Louis Blues
• Winnipeg Jets
• Arizona Coyotes 
• Minnesota Wild

The Blackhawks, as one of the original six NHL franchises, always have highly anticipated games against the Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs, making them some of the highlights of the season.

These are the specifics on where you can see Blackhawks live in action:

• Arena: United Center
• 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612
• Opened on August 18, 1994.
• United Center Joint Venture owns and operates the venue.
• There is seating for 19,717 spectators at hockey games.
• Other events include Chicago Bulls games, concerts, and various happenings.

Betting on the Chicago Blackhawks 

The Blackhawks franchise has a long history dating back to the inception of the NHL, with notable achievements such as three Stanley Cup victories. Here are some important facts about the team:

• Founded: 1926
• The team has won six Stanley Cups, with the most recent victory occurring in the 2014-15 season.
• Four conference championships, the most recent being in the 2014-15 season.
• The team has claimed 16 division titles, the most recent of which was in the 2016-17 season.
• The team has won two Presidents’ Trophies, with the most recent victory coming in the 2012-13 season.
• Six numbers were retired, with the most recent being in 2008.
• There are 51 Hall of Famers, consisting of 40 players and 10 builders.
• Stan Mikita has played a total of 1,549 games, the most in history.
• Bobby Hull is the all-time leading goal scorer with a record of 666 goals.
• In the 1990-91 season, Ed Belfour set a record for the most wins in a single season with 43 victories.

Chicago has reached the playoffs in 63 out of its 93 NHL seasons. Their most recent playoff appearance was in 2019-20, breaking a two-year postseason drought. The team defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the qualifying round but was eliminated by the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round.

Please review the current betting odds for the Blackhawks today.

How do NHL power rankings work?

Power rankings are a useful tool for bettors at any skill level to assess teams. These rankings aim to assign a numerical value to teams based on their strengths and weaknesses.

When analyzing two teams’ rankings and considering home-ice advantage, you can determine the probable outcome and approximate margin of victory. Although handicapping is not foolproof, power rankings can serve as a valuable component of your overall strategy.

Experienced handicappers develop their rankings by considering various factors, including goal differential, special teams performance, and home and away effectiveness.

Numerous free power ranking systems, such as the well-known Sagarin ratings, can be found online. While power rankings can provide insight, it’s important to remember that projected outcomes are not definite, as unexpected events can occur when teams compete.

How the NHL season works  

The NHL season typically kicks off with the preseason in the fall and continues through to the Stanley Cup Final in June, offering a variety of betting opportunities at every stage.

Every game will have some betting action, but the most popular matchups and nationally televised games will draw the most attention. The Stanley Cup playoffs are a highlight of the sports calendar, attracting a surge of interest during the postseason.

5 best NHL players from Illinois

Here are five of the all-time best pro players from Illinois, where dozens have been born and made it to the professional ranks.

Chris Chelios, D

• Played from 1984-2010
• The Stanley Cup was won three times by this team – in 1986, 2002, and 2008.
• The James Norris Trophy was awarded three times in 1989, 1993, and 1996.
• Was welcomed into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.
• The defenseman with the highest number of regular season and playoff games played.

Ed Olczyk, C

• Played from 1984-2000
• In the 1984 NHL draft, the Chicago Blackhawks chose the third overall pick.
• Stanley Cup champion in 1994 with the New York Rangers.
• Was honored with induction into the US Hockey Hall of Fame in 2012.

Tony Granato, LW

• Played from 1988-2001
• Coached the US men’s ice hockey team at the 2018 Winter Olympics.
• 1x all-star selection
• The head coach presently employed at the University of Wisconsin

Joe Corvo, D

• Played from 1998-2014
• Competed as a member of the US national team at the World Championships on two occasions.
• Silver medalist at the 1997 World Junior Championships

Craig Anderson, G

• Played from 2001-present
• The Chicago Blackhawks chose [player’s name] with the 73rd overall pick in the 2001 NHL draft.
• An individual who has been a member of the US national team at World Championships twice.

NHL betting tips and strategy

Betting on the NHL can be an enjoyable experience with the potential to make some money. However, it may be challenging for beginners to navigate. Here are three helpful tips to get started on your NHL betting journey:

• Start by placing your bets on teams you know well. For example, if you are a fan of the Blackhawks, focus on games involving Central Division teams that you are familiar with. This can be a beneficial strategy before branching out to betting on a wider range of matches.
• Find value in sportsbook apps and websites by analyzing NHL moneyline bets. Avoid blindly betting on favorites or underdogs to minimize losses. Instead, focus on identifying potential value opportunities when reviewing odds, regardless of the team.
• What kind of bettor do you want to be?: It’s important to establish your overall goals for NHL betting from the beginning. Are you looking to place occasional bets on big games? Or do you plan to be a consistent bettor? Understanding your objectives will help you tailor your strategy and approach accordingly.

Understanding the ins and outs of NHL betting can be beneficial, but knowing what to avoid is equally important. It is not advisable to bet on every single game or try to make up for losses by increasing your bets. Instead, it is better to adopt a focused strategy and acknowledge that losses are a natural part of the process.