NHL Hockey Betting

The recent releasing of the 2008-09 NHL preseason schedule, which features 110 games to be played Sept. 20 through Oct. 6, has ice hockey betting fans drooling over NHL odds and getting ready for action around the world—literally.

This year, NHL betting exhibition games goes global with the first international game being played in Germany on Sunday, Sept. 28 when the revamped Tampa Bay Lightning looks to strike the 2008 German league champion Eisbaren Berlin at the 02 World Arena.

Online NHL betting fans in Tampa Bay are pumped about their team's off-season moves. After finishing last in the league, the Lightning heavily revamped their team, making more moves than any other club. In a blockbuster deal, star defenseman Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich were dealt to San Jose for defender Matt Carle, prospect Ty Wishart and several other future picks.

Tampa Bay came to terms with former Pittsburgh forwards Gary Roberts and Ryan Malone, as well as Adam Hall, goaltender Olaf Kolzig, veteran Mark Recchi, and Brandon Bochenski. Vaclav Prospal will return to the team via free agency along with Radim Vrbata, who is coming off a career year with Phoenix. And, Steven Stamkos, the first-overall pick of 2008, is also expected to be added to the roster.

The Lightning will showcase its new look opening night (Saturday, Sept. 20) of preseason against Stanley Cup runner-up Pittsburgh Penguins at 7:30pm EST in the Steel City. BetUS NHL odds (futures) list Tampa Bay at +1600 to raise the Cup, and considering the added talent, they could land a large payday as a dark horse.