The coronavirus pandemic has all but disrupted everything - including sports. When NBA star Rudy Gobert tested positive, it began a domino effect that led to the postponement of major sports leagues including the NBA, NHL, Premier League, and even the UFC. But it's not all over, especially not for online bettors. Several sports, led by esports, plus online casinos are still up and running. Let's look at what's available.
What's available from sportsbooks:
- esports
- "specials" i.e. elections
- online games
- online casinos
- poker
What to bet on: esports and elections specials
Esports, for the uninitiated, stands for "electronic sports" and are taking the online world by storm. With the coronavirus pandemic, the sport continues to operate in some capacity with many leagues taking it online such as ESL Pro League.
You can find many esports markets from books like SportsInteraction (SIA). The most popular way to bet esports is to find the league/game you're into: from CS:GO's ESL Pro League or Flashpoint to League of Legends' LPL to Prime League or the BET Championship from DoTA.
Bet on the esports you're into. The bread-and-butter of this betting is to bet them straight-up or the "moneyline" by North American terms. This is when you pick who wins the competition without any handicapping or "point spreads", which are the second-most sought aftermarket.
While esports continues, there is something beyond sports that you can wager on: the US Presidential Election.
This election is just a few months away and while sports leagues get suspended or delayed, there is no delaying this political event turned international spectacle. Donald Trump is the favourite at 1.90 to win and serve his second term in spite of all the nonsense he's found himself in.
The Democrats have yet to choose a leader but Joe Biden is an overwhelming favourite to win at 1.06 with Bernie Sanders miles away at 15.00.
But the US elections aren't the only hot ticket. Depending on the book, like SIA, you can find odds on other political events like the next UK general election, the French Presidential Election, or even non-political events like the Nobel Peace Prize winner.
You can find "elections" in "specials" or "politics" categories in sportsbooks.
How to bet online casinos and poker
Online casinos and poker are simply virtual versions of their real-world counterparts. You can find them from sportsbooks and they usually have their own tab separate from the others.
Some of the online casino games you can play are:
- Slots
- Roulette
- Card games including poker
Each of these games features dozens of varieties depending on the sportsbook. There are hundreds of slot machines all with their own unique spin, no pun intended. Roulette usually comes as either European, French, or American, mostly the same game but with variations of rules.
Slots and roulette take a great degree of luck and are the most fun for beginners or casual players. But many professionals have found ways to win with these games.
More skill is required for card games like blackjack and poker.
Poker might be the most popular card game. You can play either going up against other players or playing computer (AI).
Getting started in betting online casinos and poker is just like sports betting. Sign up with your sportsbook of choice, deposit the cash, and play.
However, you may want to keep a budget and stick to it as playing through the casino can go faster as opposed to sports betting.
You may also want to check out live casinos that feature the same games.
How to bet at online sportsbooks
Many of the top online sportsbooks are open to Canadians and should be a boon today during the coronavirus isolation. Whereas traditional betting meant having to drive over to a casino or a local convenience store to purchase tickets, you can access the best books with your computer or mobile device.
Even better, these books operate 24-7 and often also have customer service at any time. They can guide you through the sign-up process although it's quick and simple. And a cherry on top is the sign-up bonus some books offer including free bets of up to $200.
With sports on standby, online betting will still remain popular as the thrill of playing extends beyond just sports. And sportsbooks offer promotions even amidst these pandemics.
While the world sits and waits for sports, you can get started learning or investing in new sports and games. They're easy and a hobby you can make money in.
But as mentioned, have a betting budget in mind and bet responsibly. We would recommend starting out small if you're looking to bet just for fun. As your passion grows and your skills evolve, approach the games with a professional mindset.
Have fun and make some coin as we all get through this pandemic together.
Category : Online Betting News
Tag : coronavirus
, online sportsbooks
, sports betting
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