Sports betting comes with many terminologies and concepts that can confuse newcomers. One such term is the “minus handicap” in betting markets. This article will explain what minus handicaps mean, how they work, and strategies around betting on them.
What Does “Minus Handicap” Mean in Betting?
In simple terms, a minus handicap in betting refers to a scenario where a team starts with a virtual deficit that they need to overcome. This deficit is expressed as a negative number, such as -1.5 or -2, that is applied to the team’s final score.
For example, if Team A is given a -1.5 handicap against Team B, it means Team A starts with -1.5 goals deficit. So if the match ends 2-1 in favour of Team A, the handicap adjusted final score would be 1.5-1 for betting purposes.
Handicaps are a very popular type of bet offered in sports like soccer, rugby, American football, hockey etc. Bookmakers use handicaps to balance the attractiveness of betting on outcomes perceived as unlikely.
| Type of Handicap | Example | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Minus Handicap | Team A -1.5 | Gives Team A a virtual deficit of 1.5 goals |
| Plus Handicap | Team B +1.5 | Gives Team B a virtual lead of 1.5 goals |
Why Do Bookmakers Offer Minus Handicaps?
Bookmakers introduce minus handicaps on favourites to encourage punters to back the underdog. Without a handicap, betting on a lopsided match may not attract enough balanced action on both sides.
Giving the presumed better team a minus handicap makes backing the underdog more appealing. The handicap brings the teams closer and provides the underdog a virtual head start.
For example, in a NHL playoffs series between a #1 seed and #8 seed, the series may seem lopsided on paper. But a -1.5 handicap on the #1 seed per game could entice more bets on the #8 seed.
Minus handicaps allow bookmakers to set fairer odds that account for the strength differential between two teams. This allows them to profit regardless of the outcome.
Strategies for Betting on Minus Handicaps
When assessing a minus handicap bet, first determine if the favourite is strong enough to overcome their virtual deficit.
Consider factors like current form, injuries, head-to-head records, home advantage. For larger minus handicaps, evaluate if the favourite has the firepower to cover such a big gap.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Current form | Recent performances and results |
| Injuries | Player injuries and availability |
| Head-to-head | Historical record between the teams |
| Home advantage | Familiarity with home stadium conditions |
Be wary of unpredictable events like local derbies where form is less relevant. When betting pre-match, pick handicaps where you expect the favourite to win by more than the handicap margin.
In live betting, consider increasing minus handicaps on favourites if they start strong and are likely to cover a bigger gap.
While challenging for favourites, minus handicaps can still be profitable if backed selectively where teams can overcome the virtual deficits.
A Real Example of Minus Handicaps in NHL Playoffs
In the 2019 NHL playoffs, the Tampa Bay Lightning played the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 1st round. As the #1 seed, the Lightning were expected to beat the #8 Blue Jackets.
Bookmakers gave the Lightning a -1.5 handicap for each game. This meant the Lightning had to win by 2+ goals for their bettors to win. The handicap made backing the underdog Blue Jackets more tempting.
In a major upset, the Blue Jackets actually won the series 4-0. The Lightning were swept despite being given a minus handicap in every match.
This example demonstrates the unpredictability of sports. Even the best teams can lose if they don’t perform on the day, regardless of handicaps.
In summary, minus handicaps refer to virtual deficits given to the favoured team in sports betting. It allows bookmakers to set attractive odds by bringing teams closer together. When betting minus handicaps, carefully assess if favourites can overcome their handicap margin. With the right strategy, minus handicaps can offer exciting betting opportunities even in uneven contests.