Understanding the NHL Point Spread
Unlike the NFL point spread — where the margin can range from 1 to 14 points — the NHL puck line is always fixed at 1.5 goals. That means the favorite must win by two or more, while the underdog can lose by one and still cover. Because hockey is a low-scoring game, sportsbooks adjust the juice on both sides rather than
moving the number itself. A heavy favorite laying -1.5 might carry -200 or steeper, while the underdog at +1.5 could sit around -110. Knowing that gap before you open the bet slip separates sharp NHL action from casual picks.