NEWSLETTER
In online sports betting, you might have seen a line that you wish was a half-point or a point different. You can actually buy points to change that line if you want but it will cost you. Let’s break down buying points and whether it’s worth it.
More: More sports betting tips and terms explained
What Does it Mean to Buy Points?
What exactly does it mean to buy points? It’s an option with sportsbooks where you can improve the spread or total bet for a particular game or event. The catch? The odds adjust and you are betting more for a decent payout.
For example, you might be looking to bet on the NFL. You see the Buffalo Bills are -3 favorites vs the Texans. You would like to get the line at -2.5. You can buy the half point but it will cost you -10 in odds. If the -3 spread had odds of -110, the -2.5 spread would have odds of -120.
How Much Does It Cost?
Most of the time, a half point will cost you 10 cents of juice but it can vary. So, -120 odds would go to -130. For a full point, it would go from -120 to -140. Let’s look at some examples of an NBA Playoff game where the Celtics are favored by -12 against the Cavs. Here are the alternate spread odds from DraftKings Sportsbook.
| Spread | Odds | Bet | To Win |
|---|---|---|---|
| -12 | (-115) | $115 | $100 |
| -11.5 | (-120) | $120 | $100 |
| -11 | (-130) | $130 | $100 |
| -10.5 | (-140) | $140 | $100 |
| -10 | (-155) | $155 | $100 |
| -9.5 | (-165) | $165 | $100 |
| -9 | (-180) | $180 | $100 |
| -8.5 | (-195) | $195 | $100 |
As you can see, the odds go against you with each point you decide to buy. Yes, it means the bet is more likely to win because the probability is increasing, but is it worth having to bet more? If you look at the bet column, you have to increase your wager to win $100. If you buy 3 points, you have to bet $180 to win $100 instead of just $115 with the original spread.
Should You Be Buying Points?
When it comes down to it, you should probably avoid buying points. It’s not too smart because oddsmakers are very aware of the different probabilities for each margin for the final score. And they can price these odds unfairly where you have to fork over more money for a decent payout.
When it comes to sports betting, if you are betting a fair share of your bankroll just to win $100, you will have to have an incredible record to make a profit. One loss could cause a huge hit to your account.
21+ and Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Visit morethanagame.nc.gov in NC.
