There’s no disputing the fact that ice hockey is one of the most popular games Canadians love betting on. The NHL (National Hockey League) is perhaps one of the most underrated major leagues that there is, but more and more fans are turning to it to enjoy the action and to place their bets.
If you’re new to the world of ice hockey, you may be wondering if it’s a sport worth betting on. We can say, with confidence, that it certainly is and that’s why so many Canadians are doing it right now. Read on and you’ll soon see why.
It’s a sport that becoming more popular
If you take a look at the NHL, it’s steeped in history and is perhaps one of the oldest leagues in North America. Certainly, when you consider the Stanley Cup, this is the oldest trophy that professional sportsmen can compete for. However, despite this age and tradition, the sport has yet to peak.
The NHL is a growing league. Having emerged with just 6 teams initially, there are now over 30. As the number of teams continues to grow, there will be more and more action and more betting opportunities.
Explosive and entertaining
We’re all used to seeing sports where players are in their physical prime and we, perhaps, expect those in sports such as NFL Football to give the best show. However, as tensions increase during the season, players have no choice but to cool down. An outburst could easily end a career. Ice hockey is a little different.
While no one attends a sports match to see a brawl, the odd fight here and there can certainly add to the entertainment value. Rule 46 of the NHL makes fighting acceptable! Yes, there may be penalties, but when passions boil over almost anything goes. This makes ice hockey one of the most entertaining sports to watch.
Live betting is available
Live betting is something that really adds to the excitement of a sport. Not all sports allow this, but with ice hockey, you’ll find plenty of sportsbooks where this is okay. This means that you can place bets all the way through the build-up to a game, and beyond.
You get to see how a team is performing right before your eyes and can place a bet accordingly. As you see the action unfold, you may even change your mind and place a further bet!
No need to side with teams
When you become a loyal fan of a team, often your heart rules your head and you place bets that, deep down, you know you really shouldn’t. With ice hockey, you can place over/under bets so you don’t need to pick the team that is going to win.
These bets allow you to really enjoy all that the sport has to offer without getting drawn into the team rivalries that exist and influence where people place their money.
