GUIDES · BETSLIP DOCTOR
Does the potential return on a slip include the original stake?
For an ordinary cash-bet return described by DraftKings, yes: the total amount returned includes the original stake, while profit is the amount above that stake. For example, a hypothetical $10 bet at even money could return $20 in total if it wins: $10 stake plus $10 profit. A potential return is not a guaranteed result, and bonus-bet terms or other market rules can differ. Check the label and terms used by the sportsbook for the exact slip rather than treating every display as the same payout promise.
For Bettors reading a potential-return figure who want to separate the total amount returned from profit above their stake. · Updated
Return is the total; profit is what remains above stake
When a sportsbook describes a total return, it can include both the original stake and the winnings. Profit is the earnings above the stake. DraftKings’ even-money example pairs a $100 wager with a $200 return, of which $100 is profit.
A potential-return figure describes what would be returned if the wager wins under its terms. It is not an amount already earned, and it does not prove the wager will win.
Confirm the bet type and return label
The simple stake-plus-profit arithmetic here is for an ordinary cash bet. Bonus bets and other promotions can have different terms, and push, void, or parlay rules may change what is returned.
DraftKings’ Canada odds guide includes format examples that separate total return from profit. Its region-specific account and settings instructions are not used here; consult the actual sportsbook terms for the bet you are reading.
A hypothetical even-money return
Suppose an ordinary cash bet has a $10 stake and an even-money price. If it wins, the hypothetical total return is $20: the original $10 plus $10 profit. “Return” is the full amount coming back; “profit” is the amount above the stake. This is arithmetic, not a payout promise or real wager.
Related questions
Is potential return the same as profit?
Not in the DraftKings ordinary cash examples used here. Total return includes the stake; profit is the amount above the stake.
Can a bonus bet use the same return calculation?
Do not assume so. Promotion terms can differ from an ordinary cash bet, so read the sportsbook’s specific rules.