The total is a number and a price
An NHL total sets a goal threshold for an over/under wager. A market at 5.5 is not interchangeable with one at 6 or 6.5, and each number also carries a price.
Why the whole-goal number matters
At a half-goal total such as 5.5 or 6.5, the final combined score cannot land exactly on the listed number. At a whole-goal total such as 6, sportsbook rules may allow a push when the graded score lands exactly on six. Bettors should always check the book’s rules.
Compare the number before the price
A seemingly better price can be attached to a less favorable total. That is why OddsBay comparisons need to preserve both the line value and the odds instead of ranking offers by price alone.
Hockey context belongs beside the market
Starting goalies, injuries, recent performance and scheduling can help explain the environment surrounding a total. They should not be used to manufacture a causal explanation for a move. The market observation remains separate from the contextual evidence.
What a useful totals history can show
If OddsBay first observes 5.5, later sees 6 and eventually records 6.5, the archive can document that progression. It can also show whether sportsbooks moved together or whether meaningful differences remained available.
Use the OddsBay NHL intelligence hub for NHL market context and the sports betting guide for core over/under concepts.