Coach Mark Academy – Educational Guide
Introduction
When fans talk about hockey “markets” or “outcomes,” they often mean the different ways a match result can be described or analyzed. These terms are widely used by analysts, media, and even in conversations among fans. Below, I will explain the most common hockey market types so you can clearly understand what each one means.
1. Moneyline (Match Result)
The simplest and most common outcome. It focuses only on which team wins the game. In North America, this is often referred to as the Moneyline.
Example: Team A wins the game, regardless of the score difference.
2. Puck Line (Handicap)
Here the focus is on whether a team can win by a certain goal margin.
Example: Team A must win by at least 2 goals to “cover” the line. This outcome is similar to handicaps in football (soccer).
3. Over/Under (Total Goals)
Instead of focusing on who wins, this outcome is about how many goals are scored in total.
Example: If the line is set at 5.5 goals, the question is whether the game will have 6 or more goals (Over) or 5 or fewer (Under).
4. Period Outcomes
Ice hockey is played in three periods. Analysts often break down matches into period results:
- Who will lead after the 1st period?
- Which team dominates the 2nd or 3rd period?
This type of outcome highlights momentum shifts within a game.
5. Correct Score
This refers to predicting or analyzing the exact final score of the match.
Example: 3-2 or 4-1. It’s much harder to anticipate because hockey games can be unpredictable, but it’s a classic way to discuss results.
6. Props (Player/Team Specials)
“Proposition markets” (short: props) are outcomes not tied directly to the final score. They highlight specific elements of team or player performance.
- Which player will score first?
- How many saves will a goaltender make?
- Will there be a shutout (goalie allowing 0 goals)?
- How many shots on goal a player or a team will record during the match?
- Power Play Goals Over/Under – for example, whether a team will score more than 1.5 goals on the power play.
- Total Penalty Minutes – will the combined penalty minutes in a game go Over or Under a certain line?
- Blocked Shots – how many shots a team or individual player will block during the game.
- Faceoff Wins – which team or player will win more faceoffs over the course of the game.
These props allow fans and analysts to focus on detailed aspects of the game such as special teams, discipline, and individual activity.
7. Futures (Season-Long Outcomes)
Instead of focusing on one game, futures are long-term discussions that span an entire season or tournament.
- Who will win the Stanley Cup?
- Which player will earn the MVP award?
- Which team will finish at the top of the regular-season standings?
Futures are popular for season previews and long-term fan debates.
Conclusion
Understanding hockey market types makes it easier to follow conversations between analysts, commentators, and fans. Whether it’s a simple win/lose outcome, the total number of goals, or long-term season projections, each type gives you a different perspective on the game.
Coach Mark Lehtonen – IHM Academy