In 2025, hockey fans saw the United States win the IIHF World Championship, claiming its 3rd title. Furthermore, Canada secured a win against the U.S. to lift the 2025 IIHF U18 Women's World Championship in January, bringing their number of titles to an impressive 8.
On the domestic scene, the NHL saw the Florida Panthers win their second-ever Stanley Cup in June.
As the year progresses, there is a lot for hockey players to look forward to. The NHL preseason for 2025/26 begins in September, as does the Men's Oceania Cup.
Being smart with betting hockey means paying attention to league and international news, as they can contain useful hints.
How to Bet on Hockey
Hockey is one of the most popular sports to follow, with competitions at both club and international levels happening all year round. Knowing the top events makes it easier when you want to bet ice hockey.
Men's International Competitions
IIHF World Championship
This tournament is held every year and features top national teams going head-to-head in matches that are known for fast play and exciting outcomes.
Men's Club Competitions
NHL (National Hockey League)
The NHL is the top hockey league in the world, and it features 25 teams from the United States and 7 from Canada. A regular season has 82 games, followed by the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)
With teams based mainly in Russia, China, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, the KHL is the second biggest league globally and is ideal for hockey betting.
Women's Competitions
IIHF Women's World Championship
This tournament has become more popular and competitive over the years, and it crowns the best women's national team in the world.
Women's Olympic Hockey
Just like the men's game, the Olympics brings a lot of attention to women's hockey and showcases fierce rivalries.
The large number of top hockey competitions gives you opportunities to place a smart hockey bet while enjoying the intensity and speed of the sport.
Top Hockey Betting Markets
The headings below highlight some of the most common bets in hockey.
Match Result
Pick a team to win in regulation, or predict a draw.
Total Goals
Predict if the combined goals go over or under a fixed number.
Handicap
Give one side a head start to level the odds between two teams.
Correct Score
This high-odds market predicts the exact final score, making it common in hockey betting.
Outrights
In betting hockey, 'Outright' wagers are long-term wagers, like which team will win a competition.
Tips for Hockey Betting
Our top hockey bet tips are:
- Spend some time studying the stats for teams and individual players.
- Set a budget and stick to it when playing to avoid chasing losses.
- Travel schedules and the weather can impact the gameplay in a hockey match.
- A lot of changes can happen in a game, so use live betting to make quick bets.
Why Bet on Hockey at Betsmith?
From thrilling games in the NHL to international showdowns, hockey gives you endless excitement and real chances to win big. When betting ice hockey games at Betsmith, your bets are placed on a trusted, secure platform designed to keep you safe every step of the way.