Rocket, A New Game Exclusive To DraftKings Casino NJ, Is Ready For Takeoff
In Sept. 2021, DraftKings launched a new game called “Rocket.” It is the 37th game that DraftKings has developed entirely in-house exclusively for its own use.
At this time, only NJ DraftKings Casino players can play Rocket. However, pending regulatory approval, DraftKings Casino players in Pennsylvania and Michigan will also have access.
Jason March, DraftKings Vice President of iGaming, expressed his enthusiasm for the new product as follows:
“By developing DraftKings Rocket, our team continues to innovate our Casino offerings as we set out to create an all-new, one-of-a-kind iGaming experience for customers. We’re thrilled to be providing an exclusive iGaming experience to DraftKings customers. At DraftKings, a customer-first approach is essential to our products, and the addition of DraftKings Rocket is sure to provide a new and exciting way for customers to wager with peer-to-peer interaction.”
How the DraftKings Rocket game works
Rocket is an innovative new game that DraftKings is introducing exclusively for its NJ online and mobile players. In this article, I will do my best to describe the basics. However, the only way to fully appreciate how the highly interactive nature of this game works is to try it yourself for real money. I promise you that every trip you take on the virtual rocket (and like Lay’s potato chips, no one can stop with just one) will be an unforgettable wild ride and different from anything you have ever experienced before.
Within seconds of placing your bet, you and other DraftKings players who will be accompanying you for the ride will start your virtual takeoff. As the virtual rocket climbs, so does the game multiplier. Therefore, the higher your rocket rises while you are still aboard before it comes to a screeching halt and explodes, the more you can win. But here’s the catch. Timing is crucial.
In order to win your bet, one of two things must happen:
- The multiplier you automatically set prior to the game as the point where you will “bailout” is reached while the rocket is still in flight, or
- You “bail” on the rocket while it is still in flight to lock in the multiplier at that point.
Bet range and win multiplier options
The minimum bet is $1, and the maximum is $1,000. You also have the option to set your own auto-cashback multiplier. While the default setting is 1,000x your bet, which is the maximum payment possible, you have the option instead to play much more conservatively.
When you’re ready to start a new game, you can check the numerical setting to the right of the screen and adjust the multiplier to where you want it. The starting number is 1, but while the rocket rises, the multiplier will steadily rise as well according to a preset logarithm. Assuming that the following time intervals elapse before the rocket explodes, the multiplier will go to 1.1 in about a second, 2.0 in about 12 seconds, and 5.0 in about 30 seconds. Then it will continue to get higher thereafter for as long as it can.
Keep in mind that the amount you stand to win in each game is your bet x your designated multiplier. Therefore, the higher the multiplier is able to go, the better the outcome. However, here’s the catch. If the rocket explodes before the multiplier has a chance to reach the level you have locked in, you don’t win a lesser amount. You lose your entire bet!
How much can you win playing Rocket?
The return to player (RTP) for this game is 97 percent. That is substantially better than most slot games, but even so, you need to be careful, limit your bets to what you can comfortably afford, and manage your money wisely. This is especially important with a fast-paced, highly volatile game like Rocket. Yes, the potential to win big exists, but it’s a longshot, and if you’re not careful, rockets won’t be the only things disappearing into thin air–your bankroll could be, too!
Theoretically, Rocket could make some players millionaires. Players who bet the maximum of $1,000 and play with a multiplier of 1,000 will win $1 million if—and it’s a big if–the rocket successfully reaches that level without crashing. It’s possible but highly unlikely.
At the opposite extreme, you could bet as little as $1 and play with a very low multiplier (i.e., 2 or less) to virtually assure yourself of a tiny win. But after a while, the game will become boring, and you’ll feel like you’re wasting your time.
So, as eager as you might be to start playing this thrilling game for real money immediately, here’s what I suggest instead. I strongly recommend watching a few rounds of other people playing before you start participating to get a better feel for the flow of the game.
It may take some experimenting to find the right combination of bet size and bail-out multiplier for your personal taste and bankroll. Once you do, then you might want to utilize another optional feature that this game offers to automatically preset both the bet and multiplier for up to 50 consecutive games.
That way you can simply watch the exciting drama unfold in launch after launch without the added pressure of having to make any impulsive, gut-wrenching split-second decisions.
Special features
I have already mentioned two of this game’s special features:
- The option to set the machine to automatically play up to 50 consecutive games.
- The ability to bail out and lock in a certain win multiplier, either automatically before the game starts or manually, while the rocket is in flight.
These two options not only enhance the adrenaline rush but give players a much greater sense of control than is possible in most slot games. Here are some other exciting extras that help to make Rocket the highly entertaining experience it is:
- You can customize the appearance of your rocket to your taste.
- Each virtual rocket launch takes place in real-time. Therefore, while you can’t join a game that is already in progress, you never have to wait more than six seconds to start playing.
- A special chat feature lets you talk to other players, similar to what you’ll find in live dealer games.
- While the rocket is in flight, you can observe the point when other players bailout, which could help you with your own game.
- Even if all of the players aboard the rocket bail out early, the rocket will continue to fly without passengers until it crashes. This will show you how you could have won more by staying aboard longer.
Additional thoughts: Rocket pros and cons
Rocket is not recommended for penny players since the smallest bet is $1. However, with an extremely wide betting range starting at $1 and going all the way up to $1,000, it will appeal to a very wide audience of players.
Regardless of what stakes you play for, the challenge to try to set a high enough multiplier to lock in a decent size win before the rocket explodes and leaves you walking away empty-handed has to intrigue you. Rocket is the type of game that will get your adrenalin pumping from the get-go to the finish. It is a very fast-paced game with never a dull moment.
Some reviewers worry that Rocket could be addictive and that the way it lends itself to being played over and over again could trigger a gambling problem or exacerbate it in those who already have one. I tend to agree. I would have also liked to see the option to play this game in demo mode rather than just for real money.
As with any other casino game, it is important to play responsibly, limit one’s bet size to what one can comfortably afford, and avoid marathon sessions. If the nature of this particular game makes it too tempting to stray from these guidelines, you should probably not play it.
Another problem I have is with the DraftKings video emphasizing the prospect of winning $1 million. The only way you even have a chance to win $1 million is to make $1,000 bets with a $1,000x multiplier, Obviously, this is way outside the overwhelming majority of players’ budgets. Also, it could take many $1,000 bets that come up empty before the player finally succeeds, if ever.
The final verdict: Is Rocket worth your time?
Without minimizing the importance of any of the foregoing reservations, there is no denying that Rocket is a very well-executed game with a lot going for it. Besides being highly entertaining, it includes multiple great innovative features that will keep you coming back for more.
So, if you’re a NJ DraftKings player who’s hankering to try a wildly exciting new game with a high RTP and high variance that’s strikingly different from anything you’ve played before, Rocket could have your name written on it. Climb aboard and see how high it can take you.
Gambling News Flash: DraftKings Drama, Takeover Deals & Sports Betting to Wrigley Field?
This week’s casino news starts off with sports betting giant DraftKings, who is under federal investigation. While the headline might sound daunting, the news isn’t as major as most would have you believe.
DraftKings Under Federal Investigation For SBTech Deal
DraftKings has found themselves in the hot seat as they are currently under federal investigation over their purchase of SBTech, a Bulgarian sports betting provider. There are alleged violations of the Securities Exchange Act regarding DraftKings’ purchase of SBTech, as first reported by Hindenburg Research.
One DraftKings spokesperson doesn’t seem to be too worried about the allegations though, saying:
“It is not uncommon for the SEC to investigate allegations. The SEC inquiry does not suggest any wrongdoing or agreement with the short-seller allegations, and we intend to cooperate with the SEC inquiry.”
There is no doubt that the company has plans to stand up for themselves. And they seem to believe they won’t be severely damaged by this investigation.
DraftKings also has some issues regarding tax challenges as the Internal Revenue Service is auditing the sports betting giant over taxes paid in years past. Apparently, the issues are focused on taxation of fantasy sports contests. If they find that the numbers don’t add up, DraftKings could be forced to pay a sizable penalty.
Betting Giants Unveiling Growth Amid Takeover Speculation
A couple of United States gambling giants just released their growth numbers amid takeover deals speculation. Flutter and Entain showed six exceptional months of growth, which could put them into position for a takeover deal in the future. After all, aren’t takeovers the hottest thing in the sports betting space these days?
Entain has been watching their value increase steadily over the past couple of months ever since MGM Resorts has been rumored to buy them. MGM had a multi-billion dollar deal almost finished up before things broke down in the end. There are some insiders who believe the two sides are still negotiating.
With restrictions around the United States slowly easing, players in the online gambling market have been able to expand pretty quickly. We could see online gambling expand even further in the coming months to several additional states.
Sports Betting Outpost Coming To Wrigley Field?
The Chicago Cubs have finally gotten themselves one step closer to allowing sports betting at their home stadium. This past week, the City Council committee approved their request to construct a 22,450 square foot structure. The location is Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue. It is going to be a two-story building located adjacent to their stadium and early estimations expect construction to take at least a year to be fully built. Customers will be able to pop in there and bet on sports if they want to get in on the action.
This new idea likely stems from their newfound partnership with DraftKings, a deal that was struck back in 2020. They came to the decision that they wanted to partner up for an official sportsbook. If it pans out, this sportsbook will be the first located at a professional sports stadium in the US.
They aren’t out of the woods completely yet, though. They still need approval from the full City Council along with the National Park Service and the Illinois Gaming Board. However, after a unanimous decision from the first committee, things are looking good. The Cubs said that this sportsbook will be a terrific way for them to connect with their fans.
Lead image credit: AP Photo/Charles Krupa
New Players Can Get 100-1 Odds for Week 2 on DraftKings
DraftKings gave out millions in player credits and cash before the NFL season started and a cool million to someone in their NFL Survivor pool just for playing.
We’re still not sure how much players cashed on the Chiefs +101 promotion from the season opener. Believe it or not, they’re still not done. Introducing the DraftKings bet 1$ win 100$.
DraftKings Bet 1$ Win 100$
For new NJ sports betting accounts still waiting to get in the action, DK has a great intro deal for Week 2 of the NFL season.
Sign up for an account, deposit $5 or more, and get 100-1 odds at DraftKings on any pre-game moneyline for Sunday or Monday. It’s that simple.
- Any of the 15 games kicking off from Sunday afternoon to Monday night are eligible.
- Just sign up for an account using our exclusive link
- Make the deposit, and pick a game.
Like the 49ers to bounce back against the Jets? Take the boost.
Think the Titans can bring the Jaguars back to Earth? Pick the boost.
Believe the Steelers can go 2-0 at home against Denver? Go for it.
Use the boost once, and use it wisely. Once selected, it can’t be undone. It’s a dollar risk with a chance to turn that into $100 on one of the best books for promos, boosts, and options.
The site also has a variety of exciting NJ gambling website casino games, from slots to live dealer table games.
DraftKings DFS Millionaire Contest
If daily fantasy is more of your bag, DraftKings DFS has a special millionaire contest for new players.
- Click this link to set up a new account, make a qualifying deposit, and get in the exclusive game.
- This may be the best odds for anyone to become a DFS millionaire so don’t pass this up.
It’s a great opportunity to get familiar with one of the top daily fantasy sites in the world, with contests available everyday in major leagues nationally and internationally, racing, MMA, and other unique offerings.
DraftKings Free Golden Ticket Giveaway And Survivor Pool
You know the old saying if it sounds to be good to be true, it probably is. Therefore, when I first heard about the $100 Million Golden Ticket Giveaway at DraftKings Online Sportsbook, with a FREE chance to win $1 million, I was skeptical. How could this be? There must be a catch–or maybe not.
My curiosity led me to read the fine print so I could fully understand what this offer entails. If your curiosity has been piqued, too, read on.
When DraftKings will hold the free Golden Ticket Giveaway and are you eligible?
This promotion got underway at 9 a.m. ET on August 14. But you have until 10 a.m. ET Sun., Sept. 13 to opt-in. DraftKings is calling it the $100 Million Golden Ticket Giveaway, and the 2020 NFL regular season marks the first time ever that this gambling website is offering it.
The DraftKings Golden Ticket Giveaway is open to registered DraftKings account holders only. Therefore, if you wish to enter but are not already signed up, the first thing you need to do is open an account with the site.
NJ residence is not required. Anyone with an active DraftKings account in good standing who resides anywhere in the US except Florida and New York who meets the minimum age requirements for gambling in his or her state can participate.
How the DraftKings Golden Ticket Giveaway works
The Golden Ticket Giveaway itself will be run as a sweepstakes. No purchase is required to enter, and spending money on the site will not increase your odds of winning. Everyone who participates has an equal opportunity to win.
On September 13, the first Sunday of the 2020 NFL regular season, DraftKings will randomly pick one individual to win $1 million in cash.
The math isn’t clear how the total amount that DraftKings will give away equals $100 million. But that’s the total amount of prize money that DraftKings claims is up for grabs.
However, in order to have a shot at the September 13 million dollar prize, you must also agree to participate in the DraftKings NFL Survivor Pool. The Survivor Pool is also free to enter but requires not just good luck but great handicapping skills. It comes with a winner takes all prize of $1 million as well.
Get an instant reward just for entering
Of course, as great as it would be to win $1 million even once or maybe more than once, especially since it costs you nothing, the odds are overwhelmingly stacked against you. So assuming that neither the Golden Ticket Giveaway nor the requisite Survival Pool contest turns you into a millionaire, does that mean you walk away from this promotion empty-handed?
Not at all. Simply for opting-in to the free DraftKings NFL Survivor Pool, besides automatically receiving a free entry into the Golden Ticket Giveaway as well, you also receive an instant reward.
The reward can be for any of these seven amounts: $5, $10, $20, $100, $500, $1,000, or $25,000.
The $5, $10, $20, $100, and $500 rewards are all issued in the form of a site credit that you can only use at DraftKings and must use by September 30. Otherwise, the reward will expire. However, the $1,000 and $25,000 instant rewards are dispensed as immediately withdrawable cash.
If you’re the Golden Ticket Giveaway winner of $1 million–
On September 13, DraftKings will hold a random drawing among all eligible Golden Ticket Giveaway entries to select the winner of the $1 million prize. The recipient will have up to 72 hours to claim the prize.
The potential winner must also satisfy other eligibility and compliance stipulations and agree to interviews with the sponsor and media.
Any applicable federal, state, and local taxes associated with the million-dollar prize will also be the sole responsibility of the prizewinner.
The separate $1 million season-long Survivor Pool
Each week of the 2020 NFL regular season, starting with the opening week, the task is to pick one team that you think will win its game outright. If you pick correctly, you “survive” to make another pick the following week.
However, you cannot pick the same team more than once.
You must submit your one pick for the week before 1 p.m. ET on Sunday for a Sunday or Monday game and before kickoff on Thursday for Thursday night games.
Picking correctly will probably be easier early in the season than later, especially after the bye weeks start, and the better teams will either not be playing or you will have already used them. You may have no choice then but to depend on a lesser team to rise to the occasion.
The last player standing will win $1 million. Or at the end of the season, if multiple players are still standing, they will share the prize.
The bottom line
There you have it—a guaranteed reward of at least $5 but possibly as much as $25,000 just for entering plus free shots at two $1 million prizes. How can you say no to an offer like that?
I told you about another golden opportunity to win big money in my July 27, 2090 article on NJ Gambling Websites entitled “Win Up To $1 Million in DraftKings NFL Pick’Em Contest.” However, as of now, participation is limited to players in New Jersey and New Hampshire. The contest also comes with a steep $1,500 entry fee.
So in case the NFL Pick’Em Contest is not a viable option, now you have an exciting alternative to consider with the DraftKings Golden Ticket Giveaway. Or enter both promotions. Either way, this could be your winningest football season yet!
DraftKings Survey Shows Fans Ready for Sports to Return
Sports gaming company DraftKings released a study earlier this month polling citizens on the upcoming return of sports. Unsurprisingly, a majority said they were ready to welcome back the major pro leagues.
Top NJ Gambling Websites & Apps
With the NHL and NBA returning to action in neutral-site “bubbles” and baseball starting in fanless stadium, 78 percent of over 1,000 respondents to the survey said they were ok with spectator sports coming back without some of the traditional aspects of attendance.
A greater number said that they missed sports during the coronavirus-forced shutdowns a lot (56 percent) or a little (28 percent).
The Boston-based company released the findings last week. 1,000 self-identifying NJ sports betting fans, among other cities, were polled, along 250 who didn’t consider themselves sports fans. The survey focused on consumption habits from viewing and attending and did not ask about any wagering.
“With over half of respondents having reported missing sports during the resultant hiatus, fans across the country are inarguably eager for the return of their favorite leagues and teams, albeit with largely adjusted expectations as exemplified by our latest findings,” said Matt Kalish, co-founder and president, DraftKings North America, in a statement. “By deepening our understanding of the American fan through data and leveraging the technology of our platform, we are better able to adjust and serve the new experience of sports fans throughout the U.S.”
While 84 percent of respondents claimed they were concerned about COVID-19 before the leagues starting to shut down in mid-March, 56 percent said these stoppages led them to take the outbreak “more seriously”.
59 percent said the lack of games allowed them to focus on non-sports related television and movies, while 53 percent said they were able to spend more time with family and friends.
Without traditional North American fare, fans didn’t completely go hungry. Over one in four surveyed found new forms of competition to follow like esports (40 percent), international soccer (32 percent), and MMA (30 percent). 67 percent said they’ll continue to follow those new sports after the Big 4 return.
Most fans are ready for the return of sports but most think it’s too soon (39 percent) versus the right time (34 percent). The rise in cases in many states has been cause for alarm, with some athletes suggesting the timing is not right and a few opting not to play their respective seasons out of concerns for the chance of catching coronavirus.
As of now, games will be played in empty arenas and stadiums. As for the NFL, the league is allowing franchises to follow local guidance. Respondents were mixed about when they’d be comfortable attending games live.
Of the six options offered in the survey, the most popular was 4-6 months from now (24 percent), followed by until there’s a “cure” for COVID-19 (20 percent), and 0-3 months (19 percent). A majority of correspondents did agree that live attendance created concerns, like social distancing and other fans not wearing masks.
DraftKings creates Historic $1 Million DFS Contest for UFC 249
Despite the stoppage of most North American sports from the coronavirus pandemic, DraftKings has done arguably the best among major gaming companies. They have expanded operations to new states, rolled out new content from Freeplay pools to NJ online casino games, and even successfully launched their IPO.
And now introducing… the DraftKings MMA Million!
In the first major live sports event since going public, DraftKings has a big offer for fans. For UFC 249 this Saturday from Jacksonville, the pioneers of daily fantasy are offering a million-dollar prize pool, their biggest on a single MMA card.
DraftKings MMA Million – UFC 249 Contest
- $20 is the entry fee for the contest.
So those who have been waiting for “legitimate competition” or have been doing well in the freeroll events might want to get involved.
- Top prize among the 58,823 entrants is $200,000
New players can get involved too.
The standard $3 freeroll ticket with an initial deposit has been replaced with the $20 ticket for this special contest.
Greg Ehrenberg is DraftKings’ MMA DFS analyst.
On Thursday, he noted the DFS field is busy, despite the lack of traditional events. While many wonder if there should be a PPV in Florida during the lockdown, he believes the fans are ready to get involved.
“A lot of people are playing stuff like Korean baseball, which takes place overnight here,” he said. “As long as the event happens, there’s going to be a DFS contest.”
He expects the competition to sell out.
After a couple days of KBO, does anybody else feel like they are fluent in Korean?
— Greg Ehrenberg (@gehrenbergdfs) May 6, 2020
UFC 249 is going on despite major concerns about travel and safety from the shutdowns.
The evening will go on without lightweight champion Khabib Nuragomedov, who was slated to defend his belt against Tony Ferguson. Instead, Justin Gaethje will enter the main event for the title.
DraftKings DFS Contest – How To Play
For those who have done DFS for other sports but not combat, it’s a bit different.
- Pick six of the 24 fighters on the card for Saturday’s event with a $50,000 salary cap.
- Fighters earn points for strikes, takedowns, advances, and other moves in the match.
- However, there are more points available for quicker finishes so it’s key to weigh those objectives before selecting a lineup.
Ehrenberg recommended players who aren’t familiar with MMA DFS should first check the odds on DK’s sportsbook. Usually, the DFS prices match up with the betting lines. Players should look at who might get an early finish.
“A lot of times you’ll find value in terms of where a fighter has a better chance of winning, in terms of the odds they had earlier in the week,” Ehrenberg said. “Odds can swing during the week and sometimes the underdog in a bout when odds are released can become the favorite by the time the fighters enter the octagon.”
Even with the man who scared away Connor McGregor off the card, there are some recognizable names on Saturday’s lineup. Bantamweight champ Henry Cejudo will defend his title against Dominic Cruz. Former NFL standout Greg Hardy will open the PPV slate at heavyweight, while fan-favorite, Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone headlines the prelims.
When asked for a “sleeper pick,” Ehrenberg picked Yorgan De Castro, Hardy’s opponent at heavyweight. Hardy is still green in MMA despite his 5-2 record.
Castro isn’t giving up much weight but is 5 inches shorter. He could possibly get in on the former defensive end and control the match at short-range.
- As an underdog, this could be the most noteworthy upset of the night.
- Ehrenberg thinks De Castro could win by KO to move his UFC record to 7-0.
DKSB MMA: @gehrenbergdfs looks at odds on @DKSportsbook for Saturday’s UFC 249 fight between Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje and provides a fight breakdown and prediction.
— DK Live (@dklive) May 6, 2020
DraftKings Offering Free-To-Play Pools & Prizes: This Is The ‘REAL’ Deal
Still waiting for sports to come back? Me too. DraftKings is apparently feeling that same way. Luckily, they’ve got some interesting FREE-TO-PLAY pools, where you can win REAL prizes.
Introducing DraftKings reality TV pools. Wait, what?
FYI: You should NOT be gambling during all this downtime just to fight boredom. These pools from DraftKings Sportsbook aren’t gambling at all – they are 100% free-to-play pools with chances to win some sweet prizes.
These fun-for-all pools offer some new ways to get involved with all the reality TV shows you have been binging on.
Don’t deny it, you love every minute of trashy reality TV.
Here’s a rundown of some of the fun, free and non-gambling action on top reality TV shows from one of the nation’s best NJ gambling websites:
Chopped 4/7:
If you or someone you know loves cooking competitions, this is a great contest to enter. Maybe go on-demand or to a streaming service and catch up with the Food Network series about chefs preparing amazing dishes from unusual circumstances.
The DraftKings pool for Tuesday’s episode features 12 prop questions for a share of $1,000. The questions have 2-6 options and are fairly easy to grasp. Log in and lock in the answers before the 9 PM EST airing.
MTV Challenge 4/8:
This is the “reality” of where we are today in the world of NJ online gambling.
(Get it? I said, “reality” because it’s a reality show. Ok, you don’t get it, or you would have laughed.)
Those of us who are old enough to remember when MTV only ran SOME reality shows probably remember when Real World and Road Rules participants started to face off in the Challenge Show on MTV. It’s still on the air.
Guess some contestants don’t wanna go back to regular lives.
The concept is pretty straightforward: People are assigned teams and compete in challenges of brawn and brain (mostly brawn considering its reality TV). Those who do well avoid elimination.
Eventually, people get sent home and the last one standing wins money but usually comes back to do more seasons.
This pool has 13 questions and a $1,000 prize for Wednesday night. Most of the questions are multiple-choice, with the exception of asking if Johnny Bananas will make a toast. I’ve started watching him on 1st Look, the show that runs after Saturday Night Live in my market. I prefer to sleep.
Survivor 4/8:
This summer will mark the 20th anniversary of network television’s original reality elimination contest. Yes, that makes us old.
The show is still on Wednesday nights on CBS and is still going. Whether we’ll need it after the pandemic ends is a question for later. For now, there’s $1,000 at stake by answering 12 questions on the show. Enter by 8 PM EST on Wednesday.
Real Housewives 4/9:
Even by reality television standards, this show is polarizing. The various editions have offered a glimpse into the lives of wealthy women across the country and showing money can’t buy happiness, or class, or even civil social interactions.
Thursday’s 12 questions focused around the NY series, for a $1,000 FREE pool. These are all two-option questions, which include a total on crying and whether drinks will be thrown or threaten to be thrown. It’s almost absurd and chaotic enough to make one want to watch.
Top Chef 4/9:
People are trying to learn to cook better while this pandemic rages. This is a good idea. I posted dinner last night on my Gram and thought I was being clever with tagging #quarantinecuisine. Turns out that’s an account already and well trending.
Top Chef has created some megastars in the food world and launched big careers in the restaurant industry. The pool for Thursday night’s show will offer $1,000 for anyone who can answer 15 questions on the show’s results, the largest menu on the prop board.
Weather 4/9:
Arnold Rothstein, the main gambler associated with the Black Sox scandal of 1919, was so scrupulous and involved a bettor it was said the only thing he didn’t wager on was the weather. That was the only thing he couldn’t fix.
Well, there’s a pool on the weather for Thursday. Guess the over/under for highs in 14 American cities for a shot at a $1,000 prize.
Harry Potter Popularity 4/12:
The girlfriend and I watched the first six movies over the course of a week while they were free on-demand. I never got into it since I figured it was kids’ stuff. They’re not bad, if a bit long.\
This is the shortest pool with 10 questions and a $1,000 prize. However, unlike reality shows or the weather, these involve the answers from entrants. Go with your heart or guess which option is most popular to win.
NFL Pools 6/1:
While we have no idea when we’ll have live games, the NFL has promised us we’ll at least have the draft later this month. Also, April is usually when the league releases schedules. Hopefully, they keep with that, regardless of the uncertainty around when games will play.
This is more like what sports betting fans know: answer 12 questions on prediction for division winners and playoff results.
We have a good idea of what will happen with free agency. The draft will likely answer some questions but present new ones.
DraftKings Sportsbook NJ Offers Online NFL Football Pools
Football fans in the New Jersey sports betting market now have a new way to wager on both the NFL and college football. DraftKings Sportsbook has a promotion available to all bettors who want to join the DK online football Pools Contest on the NJ sportsbook.
These online football pools were introduced last season at DraftKings and are now back again for 2019. Instead of just putting some action down on a single game, DraftKings pools allow football fans to pick a specific contest and make predictions for every game on the schedule.
Similar to Daily Fantasy Sports, sportsbook pools give players the freedom to choose exactly which contest they’d like to enter. The pools vary by type, prize pool, number of entries, duration and entry fees.
This promo is a fun way for bettors to have an interest in a wide variety of games, while only committing a fixed amount of money. These betting contests also give bettors some flexibility, as you don’t need to win every single game in order to earn a payout.
Join a DK Sports Online Football Pool Right Now
Inside DraftKings Football Pools
DraftKings Pools are a great transition for casual bettors or for those who feel more comfortable betting on daily fantasy. The range of pools is extensive as well, so gamblers of all experiences can find a pool that’s right for them.
Currently, DraftKings players can enter pools with the following entry fees:
- $1
- $10
- $500
Of course the prize pool differs based on the entry fee for each contest as well as the number of entries permitted to enter. While the most affordable pools payout $6, the $10 contests have pool prizes ranging from $60 to as much as $10,000.
The $500 entry is for the DraftKings Super Pool. This pool has a $1,000,000 prize pool and pays out anyone who finishes in the top 149 entries. Here are the highest potential winnings bettors can earn by placing in this contest:
- 1st – 25%
- 2nd – 15%
- 3rd – 10%
- 4th-5th – 5%
DraftKings Super Pool begins on Sept. 29 and lasts from Week 4 through Week 17 of the NFL season. In this time, players must select 70 games against the spread in total. There is no weekly pick requirement, though.
After the regular season ends, the entry with the most wins will earn the top prize.
Other pools have different rules, however. DraftKings users can join weekly pools for just Week 2 of the NFL season. In this contest, players pick the winners of the games straight up, instead of against the point spread.
This weekly pool has an unlimited number of entries and payouts are limited to just the top three spots. The pay table for this pool is as follows:
- 1st – 50%
- 2nd – 30%
- 3rd – 20%
Beyond predicting the outcome of NFL games, there are pools available that include strictly college football, as well as props.
There is a pool for Thursday Night Football where bettors must predict what will happen for eight different prop bets specifically for that night’s matchup. Props include which player will score the first touchdown, who will have more passing yards, will there be a safety and so on.
DraftKings Private Pools
Besides the standard pools provided by the online sportsbook, football fans are able to create their own contests to enjoy with friends and family. You’re able to select if it’s for college or NFL, which type of pool it is, the date of the contest and the entry fee price.
This is a great move by DraftKings, as a lot of football enthusiasts love competing against people they’re watching the games with.
Pools are a fun way to have an interest in a lot of different games without having to pay for each bet. They will most likely grow in popularity as the football season intensifies.
Will Legalized Sports Betting Kill Fantasy Football? Not if Operators Innovate
The legalization of sports betting in New Jersey and other parts of the United States has undoubtedly been a positive. Alongside regulations, new safeguards for consumers and, of course, a myriad of ways to wager money, the advent of legal sports betting has brought with it a ton of benefits.
However, in among the patches of light, fantasy football has been cast into the shadows. Even though Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is still a thriving industry, there’s no doubt regulated sports betting has stolen the limelight over the last 12 months.
Fantasy football remains a draw
With the new football season glinting on the horizon, the status of fantasy leagues has become a topic of debate. Will activity at the top fantasy football sites drop due to sports betting? Or, will betting on sports help DFS and the fantasy football sector?
The answer, obviously, is complex. If we look at the facts, there’s still plenty of prize money out there for the top tipsters. For example, the Fantasy Football Players Championship’s main event has a $3.1 million prizepool and a top prize worth $500,000.
That’s the tip of a much larger iceberg and, when you put some of the prizes in context, they’re more valuable than the average sports win. However, what legal sports betting offers is a more instant form of gratification. When you join a licensed NJ sportsbook, you can place a bet and collect your winnings in minutes.
With fantasy football, the rewards only come at the end of the season. Based on this, sports betting has the edge as it offers an instant form of entertainment. Of course, there plenty of people that love the season-long grind of fantasy football. However, the internet is also a fast-paced world where people want answers and outcomes in seconds. With that being the case, fantasy football revenue could take dive over the coming weeks and months.
DFS operators looking to score with sports betting
During a 2018 interview with VentureBeat, DraftKings CEO Jason Robins admitted that his company’s foray into sports betting was an eye-opener. Even though DraftKings has a 60% share of the DFS market and banks around $500 million in revenue, its earnings from sports betting have been impressive.
“We were the first to get a sports book license in New Jersey, and the results are just blowing away our expectations,” Robins said in 2018.
Robins went on to say that sports betting regulation puts the DFS-debate to bed. In other words, questions regarding the legality of fantasy sports is becoming a moot point as states enact their own regulations.
In light of this, DraftKings is embracing sports betting and expanding its interests within the industry as much as possible. For consumers, this should be seen as a positive as it will create crossover innovations. If we look back to March Madness, DraftKings ran a free bracket via its sports betting app. Offering two separate prizepools worth $80,000, the promo was a way for sports bettors to take part in a DFS-style competition.
Crossovers will keep fantasy football alive
Looking ahead to the new football season, we’re likely to see more hybrid offers. DraftKings and FanDuel will be the obvious source of these crossovers. However, there’s no reason William Hill, BetStars and New Jersey’s other online sportsbooks can’t get in on the action.
For example, a bookmaker could create a fantasy football-esque competition where players earn points based on their team’s performance. At the end of a specified time period, the top performers could win a share of a prizepool made up of cash or bonus credits. Through these promotions, both verticals should, in theory, thrive.
Of course, legal sports betting isn’t available in every state right now. Therefore, fantasy football will remain a draw across the US as a whole. However, in New Jersey and other likeminded states, it’s a fair bet that fantasy football activity will take a dip this season.
But, even if that does happen, new doors should open up. As bookmakers find ways to tap into fantasy football and DFS sites embrace sports betting, opportunities will abound. So, even if fantasy football has been pushed into the shadows, the sun isn’t likely to set on the industry anytime soon.
Countdown To DraftKings Sportsbook Summer Fridays Mystery Bonus
DraftKings Sportsbook Countdown Mystery?
We’re waiting with anticipation for Friday’s announcement from DraftKings about their whole summer of weekend offerings and promotions. They’ve dubbed the promo Sportsbook Summer Fridays, which will launch in just a few days (Friday at 12:01 a.m.).
Could it have something to do with Mickey Mouse? Cinderella? Maybe a tie-in to the new Aladdin film? While it may seem strange, Disney now owns a stake in DraftKings Sportsbook thanks to the recent marriage of DraftKings parent, The Stars Group, and Fox, one of Disney’s many properties.
Nah, probably not, but it’s fun to think of all the ways there could be a crossover between the two.
Maybe they’re planning on ramping up and offering special odds boosts on obscure summer sports, like table tennis, the Steeplechase, or synchronized swimming?
With the 50th World Series of Poker in full swing in Las Vegas, fun prop bets are always a highlight of reporting. Could DraftKings plan on getting in on the action? See if Phil Ivey can subsist off of hot dogs during the entire Main Event? Who can make a final table wearing a gorilla suit? Wait, is poker even considered a sport?
Coming into the July 4th weekend means the MLB All-Star Break. Maybe there will be some free bet offers on the Home Run Derby or double odds on which league will take home the win.
It’ll be worth the wait
As you can see, the possibilities are endless. But be it cash, prize giveaways, bonus offers, or matching deposits, you can bet it will be worth your time to investigate. Just make sure that you check in each and every Friday this summer, as there will be a new surprise waiting for you at the end of every week. The perfect way to kick off your weekend!
Current Promotions at DraftKings
While you wait for the big announcement, be sure to check out these current DraftKings Sportsbook promotions:
Summer of Soccer: Running from June 7th to July 7th, this promotion encompasses the big three international cups currently in progress (Women’s International, Gold Cup, Copa Tournament).
MLB Grow the Game: From June 21st to July 2nd you can participate in this promotion for just an $11 entry. The more people that play, the larger the prize.
King of the Road NASCAR Challenge: Play now and win any of the 20 qualifiers and you’ll get a ticket to the three King of the Road Final Contests, running in August.
Showtime Boxing Pick’Em: Earn a share of $5,000 and some swag by competing in this event. You might even earn a trip to every 2020 Showtime Championship Boxing event.