NHL First Period Betting Explained

So, you want to know how NHL first period betting works? With tons of NHL betting markets to choose from, finding the best options can often be tricky. That said, 1st period betting invariably offer great value, so it’s certainly worth exploring.

NHL Betting Sites

In this guide, we highlight the different first period betting markets and explain how to make the most of each one. If you’re looking for useful NHL betting tips to enhance your strategy, you have come to the right place.

1st Period Puck Line (-0.5/+0.5)

The puck line is the term used for the spread betting option in hockey. When it comes to first period betting, the puck line is always -0.5 goals for the favorite and +0.5 goals for the underdog. All you need to do is back a team to cover the spread.

1st Period Total

This market enables you to wager on the total number of goals scored in the first period. If you think the first period will remain goalless, you can opt for  under 0.5 goals. However, there are also over/under market for multiple goals to be scored.

NHL Odds

1st Period Team Totals

Not only can you bet on the combined number of goals scored by both teams in the first period, but you can also bet on the number of goals scored by either side. For example, you could back the Dallas Stars to score under 1.5 goals, or you might wager on the Vancouver Canucks to score over 0.5 goals.

Goal in First 10 Minutes

This market allows you to bet on if there will be a goal scored in the first 10 minutes of the game. Naturally, there are only two options to choose from here. Some sportsbooks display the options as Yes/No, while others use the -0.5/+0.5 format.

1st Period Correct Score

Betting on the correct score is another fun way to wager on the first period. All you need to do is predict the score after the opening 20 minutes – it really is that simple! You can choose from 0-0, 1-0 and many other scores.

NHL Picks

1st Period 3-Way

Some of the best NHL sportsbooks have a 3-way market for the first period. Essentially, this market is a moneyline market solely for the first period. You can either back the home or away team to win the first period, or you can opt for the draw.

Both Teams to Score in 1st Period

This market enables you to predict whether or not both teams will score in the first period, choosing from Yes or No. If both teams have a strong offense, back them both to score. If one side boasts a strong defense, you might want to select No.