This month, there are a lot of events for the sports betting enthusiasts, including soccer, baseball, basketball, and of course, hockey. The NHL has entered the playoffs, and there are a few things to take into consideration when betting this time of year.

It is important to acknowledge that all the teams are much better at this point than during the regular season.  This has been shown by the first couple games played so far-no series will end in a sweep, and all the lower seeds have exceeded many expectations by hockey analysts.

When betting, make your decision before looking at the line.  This is a tip that helps most of the time, but none more so during the playoffs when any team can win. Chicago and Washington were heavy favourites in their respective Game Ones, and neither came out on top.  While the Capitals fell in overtime, the Blackhawks lost by three.

Ignore home ice except in a Game Seven Situation. Every team has the ability to win on the road, and often the pressure of playing at home can be overwhelming. Playing at home does not play as big a role in hockey as it does in basketball or football. However, in Game Seven, it is often best to go with the home team.

If a team loses one game, there is a good chance they will rebound the next. This is especially true in later rounds where series will run six or seven games.  Look for Detroit, New Jersey, San Jose, and Ottawa to bounce back in their respective Game Fours to tie the series. In certain matchups, however, one team is just too powerful and that may be the case for Washington, despite going to overtime twice.

Pick the over in Game One, and the under in Game Two.  Teams make adjustments after playing each other in one game, and the defense and goaltending almost always gets better.

Just remember that every team has a shot at winning, and it is never certain which goaltender will suddenly get hot.  Look for the teams playing strong defense, or those in need of a win and that will be your winner. Check out NHL odds to make your selections.