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Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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11-02-18 | Grizzlies +8 v. Jazz | 110-100 | Win | 100 | 5 h 9 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Memphis Grizzlies are defending at a high level and operating efficiently on offense, leading to wins in four of the last five games. The Utah Jazz, who host the Grizzlies on Friday, are trying to ride the same path up the standings and are returning home after stumbling at the end of a four-game road trip. The Grizzlies already own a 92-84 victory at Utah this season from Oct. 22 |
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11-02-18 | Knicks +6.5 v. Mavs | 118-106 | Win | 100 | 5 h 45 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Hardaway scored a season-best 37 points and drained a career-best seven 3-pointers on Wednesday but the Knicks fell 107-101 to the Indiana Pacers. The output was two shy of the 26-year-old guard's career best and he is the first New York player since Patrick Ewing to score at least 24 points in seven of the team's first eight games (Ewing did it in all eight). Dallas has dropped five consecutive games and trailed by 17 points after the opening quarter en route to suffering a 114-113 road loss against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. |
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11-02-18 | Thunder +3 v. Wizards | 134-111 | Win | 100 | 4 h 18 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Wizards have lost four consecutive games as they try to slow down the Thunder, who have won three contests in a row following an 0-4 start. Oklahoma City recovered from a 19-point, third-quarter deficit on Thursday to record a 111-107 victory in Charlotte. |
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11-02-18 | Rockets v. Nets +4.5 | 119-111 | Loss | -102 | 4 h 54 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units James Harden is unlikely to be cleared for this ballgame. The Rockets could also be missing the guy that replaced Trevor Ariza in the off season, James Ennis. This is their first on the road after having their head handed to them by the Blazers in the 19-point loss on Tuesday. Brooklyn may not be a force just yet but they are moving in the right direction. They only had one poor quarter in their overtime win over Detroit on Wednesday and they were active underneath. They had 18 offensive rebounds and were a plus 24 in points in the paint. They have protected the rock too as the starters only had 6 turnovers against the Pistons. |
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10-30-18 | Blazers +5 v. Rockets | 104-85 | Win | 100 | 1 h 6 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Last year, the Rockets finished with the #7 defense in the NBA. This year, Houston ranks #27; a team that simply cannot get stops at this stage of the campaign. That’s bad news for any favorite, let alone a favorite playing without their superstar. Meanwhile, the Blazers just won in Indiana last night despite ‘off’ games from their two stars, Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum; who combined to hit only ten shots and dish three assists between them. But Portland’s bench stepped up in a big way, a real area of strength for this squad; always key in back-2-back situations. Live dog here! |
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10-29-18 | Lakers +1 v. Wolves | 120-124 | Loss | -109 | 9 h 57 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Minnesota could be in for a very long year. There is the Jimmy Butler circus and note three Minnesota starters were combined 6 for 31 in the loss to the Bucks on Friday. The Lakers played well in the defeat at San Antonio on Saturday. Despite the starting guards going just 5 for 18, the Lakers had a point lead going into the fourth quarter before caving in at crunch time. Brandon Ingram should be back for this game and it will take a bit of pressure off of Kyle Kuzma. Look for the Lakers to be on the high horse. They were a plus 15 in fast-break points in the last game. |
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10-28-18 | Wizards v. Clippers -4 | 104-136 | Win | 100 | 10 h 27 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Clips took advantage of Houston without James Harden on Friday. L.A.’s two loss were to the Pelicans and the Nuggets. Doc Rivers has experimented with Danilo Gallinari playing the 5 but he can’t ignore Montrezl Harrell, who had 30, 2 steals and 2 rejections in 28 minutes against Houston. Granted, the Washington guards are potent but Patrick Beverley still plays with swagger and although Avery Bradley may have lost a step, he is still pretty tricky. |
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10-27-18 | Lakers -1 v. Spurs | 106-110 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 20 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Even though the Lakers are 2-3, they played well in the losses. They were right there with Portland opening night and were right there with Houston before the fight broke out. They flat-out should have beaten the Spurs last Monday. They were up by 6 with 55 seconds to go in overtime and caved in with LeBron being embarrassed. And they are playing the right way. They had 27 assists in the win over Denver on Thursday. L.A. will have Rajon Rondo back for this game. |
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10-26-18 | Mavs v. Raptors -11 | 107-116 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 4 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Dallas has been weak in the middle for quite some time now and even DeAndre Jordan will have a hard time with the Canadian centers. Coach Nick Nurse has been starting Serge Ibaka at center and bringing in Jonas Valanciunas. And it’s working. In the win over Minnesota Wednesday that pair combined for 31 points and 14 boards. |
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10-25-18 | Celtics -1 v. Thunder | 101-95 | Win | 100 | 7 h 5 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Kings, of all teams, spoiled OKC’s home opener. Russell Westbrook and Paul George showed up in that game but the other starters were 5 for 20 combined. After splitting the first 2 games against playoff clubs, Boston held on vs. the Knicks and then didn’t show up at home vs. the Magic on Monday. They have had time to recoup and Gordon Hayward and Kyrie Irving seem to be getting fitter. Coach Stevens has to find more time for Terry Rozier; Al Horford will keep Steven Adams honest as he can hit the outside jumper. Boston also still can defend. |
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10-24-18 | Mavs -2 v. Hawks | 104-111 | Loss | -105 | 3 h 42 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units This is a game Dallas wants and needs. They are in Canada Friday, go home to hear Jazz, then have the Spurs and LeBron. With the Hawks’ big men possibly limited, DeAndre Jordan should have a field day. Trae Young is coming off a nice game for Atlanta but the Mavericks’ Dennis Smith Jr. and Jose Barea will be very aware of him |
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10-22-18 | Pacers +2.5 v. Wolves | 91-101 | Loss | -108 | 8 h 32 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Pacers appear to be for real. They won Saturday despite fact up and coming player Domantas Sabonis was out with a knee bruise. That didn’t stop Indy from sharing the ball as 9 players scored in double digits. They have kicked off the season on their game from long range and they have been playing solid team defense. |
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10-21-18 | Hawks v. Cavs -7.5 | 133-111 | Loss | -103 | 6 h 4 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Atlanta will be in a rebuild mode very quickly it looks like this season. They have given up 126 and 131 in 2 games. Cleveland ran into a fragmented Minnesota team on Friday and they played well in defeat. They came out flat in the second quarter but made up for it with 41 in the third stanza. They just could not retaliate when Jimmy Butler had a near perfect game. Kevin Love was a rebounding machine as was Tristan Thompson, who had 6 offensive boards. The Cavaliers should be motivated in the home opener |
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10-20-18 | Suns v. Nuggets -10 | 91-119 | Win | 100 | 8 h 52 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Phoenix rode the coattails of Devin Booker in the opening win vs. Dallas. He had 19 of his 35 in the last minutes but this figures to be a different story. Deandre Ayton, seems to have adjusted quickly to the league, but he will be going against the tricky Jokic in the middle. Denver only had one poor quarter in the win over the Clips on Wednesday. Coach Malone played a full rotation and it worked. They held L.A. to 27% from beyond the arc and it’s not often that the center leads the teams in assists but that is how Jokic kicked off the season. |
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05-28-18 | Warriors v. Rockets +6.5 | 101-92 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 3 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Golden State is 9-19 ATS in their last 28 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game, 11-24 ATS in their last 35 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record, and 7-21-1 ATS in their last 29 games following a ATS win. While Houston is Rockets are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games playing on 1 days rest. In addition, the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. |
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05-19-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. Cavs | 86-116 | Loss | -113 | 8 h 55 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Cleveland Cavaliers have little margin for error as they attempt to begin digging out of a hole when they host the Boston Celtics on Saturday in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. Boston won the first two games to improve to 9-0 at home in the postseason. Cleveland dropped the first two games by an average of 19 points and even a monster Game 2 effort by LeBron James (42 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds) on Tuesday couldn't prevent a 13-point loss. Boston is 23-9 ATS in their last 32 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game and 20-8 ATS in their last 28 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. while Cleveland is 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall and 4-10 ATS in their last 14 vs. Eastern Conference. |
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05-13-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +2 | 83-108 | Win | 100 | 3 h 48 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Cavs struggled to get by the Pacers in seven games, but they rolled over the Raptors in four straight in the second round. Boston needed seven games to get past Milwaukee, but then only needed five to get by the 76ers. The Celtics have been red hot at home (both in the regular season and in the playoffs). Cleveland is relies completely on LBJ, so it’ll be all hands on deck from the home side to slow down the Cavs’ superstar. Consider that the Cavs are 0-3 ATS this year already when playing with three or more days rest, while the Celtics are 4-1 ATS when playing with three or more days of rest. |
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05-05-18 | Celtics +9 v. 76ers | 101-98 | Win | 100 | 7 h 59 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Boston Celtics look to open up a commanding 3-0 series lead when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Philadelphia was in good position to even the series when it led Game 2 by 22 points but Boston rallied to post an impressive 108-103 victory. The Celtics appear to be in good shape as they are 36-0 all-time when holding a 2-0 lead in a seven-game series but it took a lot of work to overcome the 76ers' stellar start. |
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05-04-18 | Rockets v. Jazz +5 | 113-92 | Loss | -105 | 4 h 8 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Utah Jazz have seized home court advantage from the NBA's best team this season and they'll try to make it hold up when they host the Houston Rockets today for Game 3 of their Western Conference semifinals. After losing all four regular-season encounters and then falling by 14 points in Game 1, the Jazz shot 51.8 percent and used a 14-2 run in the fourth quarter en route to a stunning 116-108 triumph in Wednesday's Game 2. Houston is 4-9 ATS in their last 13 vs. Western Conference, 2-5 ATS in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record, and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 road games. While Utah is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games and 6-2 ATS in their last 8 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. |
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04-29-18 | Pacers +5.5 v. Cavs | 101-105 | Win | 100 | 3 h 39 m | Show | |
Rating; 2 Units The momentum boost provided by LeBron James with a last-second shot in a Game 5 win did not carry over for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and now they are facing a do-or-die Game 7. The three-time defending Eastern Conference champion Cavaliers will try to avoid a first-round exit when they host the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 today. Cleveland went into Indiana on Friday and got rocked 121-87 with a chance to close out the series. Indiana is 18-6 ATS in their last 24 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game, while Cleveland is 16-37-1 ATS in their last 54 home games. |
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04-28-18 | Pelicans +9 v. Warriors | 101-123 | Loss | -101 | 11 h 44 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The New Orleans Pelicans were surprisingly dominant in sweeping the third-seeded Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs, but a much bigger challenge looms. The Pelicans will try to get an early advantage when they visit the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals today. New Orleans superstar Anthony Davis averaged 33 points on 57.6 percent shooting and 11.8 rebounds in the four-game sweep of Portland, and the team is not intimidated by facing the defending champs. New Orleans is 22-6 ATS in their last 28 games following a ATS win, 21-6 ATS in their last 27 games following a straight up win, and 19-7 ATS in their last 26 vs. Western Conference. |
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04-16-18 | Spurs v. Warriors -9.5 | 101-116 | Win | 100 | 7 h 55 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Golden State Warriors came into the postseason injured and slumping but quickly proved they can flip the switch to playoff mode with a dominating Game 1 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. The Warriors will try to keep the pressure on and get off to another hot start to make it a 2-0 cushion when they host the Spurs in Game 2 today. Golden State dropped 10 of its last 17 games in the regular season and struggled on defense but tightened things up that end and held the Spurs to 17 first-quarter points to establish a lead it wouldn’t relinquish in Game 1. |
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04-16-18 | Heat v. 76ers -6.5 | 113-103 | Loss | -107 | 5 h 31 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units After a slow start in Saturday's opener, Philadelphia outscored the Heat by a whopping 74-43 margin in the second half en route to a convincing 130-103 Game 1 victory. Philadelphia made 18-of-28 3-pointers and recorded 34 assists against just 10 turnovers in a dominant effort. The last nine of the Sixers' 17 straight wins have come without All-Star center Joel Embiid (orbital fracture), who could return as soon as Game 2 or 3. The Heat will need to get more out of their own big man, as Hassan Whiteside provided just two points on 1-of-4 shooting in 12 lackluster minutes. |
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04-15-18 | Wolves v. Rockets OVER 215 | 101-104 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 43 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Houston is led by superstar guard James Harden, who is the odds-on favorite to win his first MVP award this season after leading the league in scoring at an average of 30.4 points and adding 8.8 assists. The difference for the team this time around in the playoffs is that Harden has another future Hall of Famer in the backcourt with the addition of point guard Chris Paul, who is in awe of his teammate. Over is 11-3 in Timberwolves last 14 vs. a team with a winning straight up record, 12-5 in Timberwolves last 17 vs. NBA Southwest, and 15-7 in Timberwolves last 22 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. |
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04-14-18 | Pelicans v. Blazers -5 | 97-95 | Loss | -108 | 9 h 12 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Portland features its own ego-free superstar in point guard Damian Lillard, who averaged 26.9 points during the third All-Star season of his standout career. The Trail Blazers are the third seed in the West, their best positioning since also being the No. 3 seed in 2000, when they reached the Western Conference finals before losing a seven-game series to the Los Angeles Lakers. Having home court advantage is big for a Portland team that won 21 of its last 24 home contests and is supremely confident inside the Moda Center. The Trail Blazers are hoping center Jusuf Nurkic will be up to the task of slowing Davis while also building on his career-best averages of 14.3 points and nine rebounds to go along with a career-high 27 double-doubles. Shooting guard CJ McCollum (21.4) is a strong scoring complement to Lillard |
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04-14-18 | Heat v. 76ers -6 | 103-130 | Win | 100 | 7 h 46 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Philadelphia 76ers enter the postseason on a roll but will be without All-Star center Joel Embiid when they host the Miami Heat in Saturday's opening game of the Eastern Conference first-round series. Embiid missed the final eight games of the regular season with an orbital fracture but his absence didn't stop the 76ers from stretching their winning streak to a franchise-record 16 straight games. Embiid will likely wear a mask when he returns and his responses indicate that a Game 2 return is possible. The third-seeded 76ers are a feel-good story after losing more than 50 games in each of the previous four seasons |
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04-11-18 | Nuggets +3.5 v. Wolves | 106-112 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 38 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Denver peaking at the right time, winning 6 straight after beating Portland on Monday night. One of those victories was a crucial 100-96 triumph over Minnesota when Nugget PG Jamal Murray had 22 pts. and C Nikola Jokic had 16 pts., 14 rebs. and 9 assists. Murray averaged 24 ppg and shot 48% from beyond the arc in the three games against the Timberwolves this season. One game separated five Western Conference teams in the 5-9 slots on Monday. Denver and Minnesota are fighting for one of those final playoff spots in the West, and Tom Thibodeau’s bunch would wrap it up with a win regardless of intervening results. The Timberwolves could possibly get in with a loss in this game provided they beat Memphis Monday, while the Nuggets will be in a must-win situation. Denver has covered 7 straight and 11 of its last 12 games in Minneapolis. |
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04-10-18 | Warriors v. Jazz -8 | 79-119 | Win | 100 | 1 h 42 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Can’t get too carried away with Warriors’ Sunday win over the Suns, as it marked only the 6th spread cover in the last 20 games for the depleted champs, still minus Steph Curry. But that was probably the last semi-dress rehearsal for playoffs, as it’s highly doubtful Steve Kerr risks any of his other starters in this finale that has no meaning for Warriors (locked into the 2 seed in West) but could have seeding implications for rampant Utah, which might still be able to pass Portland for the 3-spot in the playoffs. While the Warriors have been floundering, Jazz surging, with a 28-5 SU mark their last 33, and outscoring foes by almost 20 points per 100 possessions in the last 216 minutes when Donovan Mitchell, Jae Crowder, and underrated Royce O’Neale have been on the floor together. Utah also recently ripped an under strength Golden State by 19 at Oakland on March 25. |
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04-08-18 | Jazz -8 v. Lakers | 112-97 | Win | 100 | 5 h 30 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units These two just played in Salt Lake City this past Tuesday, but Utah has dominated the Lakers the past few seasons, winning 9 of the last 10 meetings and logging a 4-2 spread mark visiting Staples Center to face the Lakers. The Jazz cooled off against the points, but Utah was 25-5 SU in its last 30 prior to that April 3 date with the Lake Show. The Lakers are trying but aren’t healthy and had dropped 7 of their last 9 as injuries to swing man Brandon Ingram and PG Lonzo Ball took a toll. Jazz rookie sensation Donovan Mitchell has scored 24 ppg in March, and Rudy Gobert will be the most dominating defensive presence on the court by a margin. |
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04-08-18 | Pistons -6 v. Grizzlies | 117-130 | Loss | -110 | 3 h 3 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Detroit was on fire against the points heading into the final two weeks of the season, covering 8 straight and 11 of 13 through April 2. See little point in over thinking things with Memphis side that lost 25 of its last 28 through April 3 and was 3-7 vs. the points in its last 10 at the FedEx Forum prior to hosting Sacramento two nights ago. First meeting was a Grizzly loss (but cover) on Feb. 1, and was the 2nd setback of what would eventually be a 19-game losing streak. That game marked Blake Griffin’s debut with the Pistons, and he delivered with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Griffin is injured now, but the Pistons have been mowing down teams without him, as PG Reggie Jackson begins to round back into form. |
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04-08-18 | Mavs v. 76ers -13 | 97-109 | Loss | -107 | 1 h 35 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philadelphia had covered 8 straight through April 2, six of those wins coming as a favorite of more than 7 points, while Dallas is just 4-9 this season as a dog of 9½ or more. This game will fall somewhere in that area, and trust Sixer side that’s still jockeying for playoff position over Mav side that’s been openly tanking for months. Philly was just getting its act together when these two met back on Nov. 28, as the Sixers held on for a 112-110 after blowing most of its double-digit 4th-Q lead. Sixer rookie Ben Simmons had a coming-out party in the first meeting, scoring 23 pts. while contributing 7 rebs., 8 assists and 3 steals to key the win. Good news for the Sixers is that G J.J. Redick, who didn’t play in the first meeting, is clicking on all cylinders now |
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04-07-18 | Blazers v. Spurs -4.5 | 105-116 | Win | 100 | 8 h 24 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units These two split a pair played in Portland this season, with San Antonio covering both. The Spurs are surging to the finish line, winning 8 of their last 10 games SU and vs. the number, holding foes to 95.5 ppg and out-rebounding the opposition by 6 per game in that stretch. The same can be said for Portland, which was 26-8 SU from mid January through April 2. Blazer G Damian Lillard has cooled off a bit lately, however, perhaps a bit distracted by an addition to the family (a brand new baby boy!). Lillard was shooting less than 40% over the team’s last 10 games at this writing, and the Spurs have won and covered 6 straight against Western playoff foes, including SU wins over Houston, Golden State, red-hot Utah and OKC |
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04-07-18 | Bucks -9 v. Knicks | 115-102 | Win | 100 | 18 h 26 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units New York playing the 2nd night of a back-to-back set, both of which are home games for the Knicks. Given the recent N.Y. struggles at the Garden (dropped 14 of last 17 SU at home through April 2), and the Knicks record against Milwaukee (lost 4 straight overall, 1-5 SU L6 at MSG), have to lean to the visitor. The Bucks are likely safely in the playoffs, but would love to climb out of the 8th position to avoid Toronto, a team that’s beaten them 19 of the last 25 meetings. Milwaukee has covered 7 of its last 8 chances this season as road chalk, and PF Giannis Antetokounmpo (27 ppg, 11 rpg vs. the Knicks) has been backed up by F Khris Middleton (20 ppg on 52% vs. NY) and G Eric Bledsoe (21 ppg, 54% L10 through April 2). |
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04-03-18 | Lakers v. Jazz -11 | 110-117 | Loss | -105 | 6 h 8 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Utah Jazz have their sights on a playoff berth as they look to continue their recent domination of the visiting Los Angeles Lakers on today. Utah, which is in sixth place in the Western Conference, will be seeking its sixth straight victory over the Lakers. The Jazz won 25 of their past 30 games and are just one game behind the fourth-place San Antonio Spurs but also just two games clear of the ninth-place Denver Nuggets in the tightly packed race. The Jazz won eight of the past nine meetings, including a 96-81 home victory on Oct. 28. |
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04-03-18 | Blazers -8.5 v. Mavs | 109-115 | Loss | -105 | 6 h 41 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Portland Trail Blazers are headed to the playoffs for the fifth straight season and their focus has turned to securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. The Trail Blazers hold a three-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs with five to play as they open a four-game road trip with today's contest against the Dallas Mavericks. Portland has been on a scintillating eight-week stretch in which it has compiled a 19-4 record and the club took time to enjoy the clinching after Sunday's 113-98 win over the Memphis Grizzlies. |
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04-03-18 | Nets v. 76ers -8.5 | 95-121 | Win | 100 | 23 h 25 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Philadelphia 76ers aim to produce their longest winning streak since in 28 years on Tuesday when they put a 10-game run on the line against the visiting Brooklyn Nets. The winning streak matches one from the start of the 2000-01 season and is two shy of the 12-game string that the 1989-90 team put together. Ben Simmons continued to carry the load with Joel Embiid sidelined in the Sixers' 119-102 win at Charlotte on Sunday, finishing with 20 points and 15 assists as Philadelphia stayed within a half-game of Cleveland in the race for third place in the Eastern Conference. |
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04-01-18 | Thunder -1 v. Pelicans | 109-104 | Win | 100 | 7 h 2 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Thunder come in hungry after losing four of their last five. OKC will be especially motivated here after falling 126-125 in OT at home to Denver last time out. The Thunder outscored the Nuggets 35-22 in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough in the end. Russell Westbrook was a bright spot in the setback with 33 points, 13 assists and nine boards. New Orleans has lost three straight, most recently falling to Houston, Portland and Cleveland. Jrue Holiday led the way in the 107-102 setback to the Cavs with 25 points. For the most part the Thunder have struggled for bettors this year, however note that they’re 4-1 ATS in their last five against good offensive teams which average 105-plus points per contest, while the Pelicans are just 17-20 ATS in front of the home town crowd this season and just 2-5 ATS their last seven when playing with one or less day rest. |
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04-01-18 | 76ers -2 v. Hornets | 119-102 | Win | 100 | 14 h 17 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philadelphia cruised to three double-digit wins over Charlotte this season, with Joel Embiid scoring 22 ppg and taking 11 rpg with 2.3 blocks to lead the team. The Hornet defense hasn’t put up much of an obstacle for Philly, which has scored more than 115 ppg and shot 51% in posting 3 win-and-covers. The Sixers, who had won 6 straight prior to facing Denver Monday, are still fighting tooth and nail for the home floor. With the possibility of catching Cleveland for the third seed still on the table, the Sixers are motivated. Charlotte played last night in Washington, and the Hornets are just 3-7-1 vs. the points in their last 11 when unrested, and the Sixers are 6-2 SU L8 on the road prior to stop in Atlanta Friday |
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03-31-18 | Raptors v. Celtics +4.5 | 99-110 | Win | 100 | 7 h 57 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The home team won and covered first two in series, and this is virtually a must-win game for Boston if it is to have any hope of capturing the Atlantic Division and the home court edge in the East. Toronto has cooled off since winning 18 of 19 SU from Feb. 2 through March 16. The Raptors were 0-6 vs. the number L6 and 2-3 L5, giving up 116 ppg and 50% in the last 5 prior to facing Denver on Tuesday. Raptor leader DeMar DeRozan has been a bit off against the Celtics this season, scoring a sub-par (for him) 19.5 ppg and shooting only 36%. Toronto C Jonas Valanciunas has had foul trouble against Boston bigs Al Horford, Marcus Morris and Aron Baynes, limiting him to just 39 total minutes, 33% and 4 ppg in first pair vs the Celtics |
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03-31-18 | Hornets +5.5 v. Wizards | 93-107 | Loss | -113 | 3 h 32 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Washington hasn’t been playing well in March, covering just 2 of its first 11 games this month. Wiz HC Scott Brooks will have to make some defensive adjustments after his team allowed Charlotte to score 128 ppg in winning first 3 over Washington this season. Hornet PG Kemba Walker scored 22 ppg in the series, and C Dwight Howard managed 18 ppg and 11 rpg in just 30 mpg, while 4 other Hornets scored at least 13 ppg. Brooks should strongly consider bringing back PG John Wall from the injured list soon, lest they dip lower in the standings and lose any serious chance of catching Philly and Indy for 4th-place in the East and the first-round home court edge. The Wizards are 8-21-1 vs. the number as home chalk! |
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03-30-18 | Bucks v. Lakers -1.5 | 124-122 | Loss | -107 | 6 h 43 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Milwaukee rode Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 33 pts. and 15 boards to a 98-90 win when these two met back on Nov. 11, with the Greek Freak easily counterbalancing the first triple double by L.A. rookie Lonzo Ball. The Lakers have been a tough cookie at home since early January, posting 12-2 SU and 11-3 spread marks in last 14 at home prior to hosting Dallas on Wednesday. L.A. has injury issues, with Fs Brandon Ingram (groin) and Isaiah Thomas a possible scratch due to a recurring hip problem, but rookies Kyle Kuzma and Ball starting to gain consistency. The Bucks haven’t played well on the road against decent teams this season, posting a 9-14 mark as a road dog of 1-6 points |
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03-30-18 | Pelicans v. Cavs -4 | 102-107 | Win | 100 | 3 h 16 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Cleveland had won five straight heading into Tuesday’s visit to Miami, as return of PF Kevin Love has been a positive. LeBron James has averaged 31 pts., 10 rebs. and 10 assists since the all-star break, but Love’s 20 ppg and 10 rpg in his first 4 back tipped the scales in the Cavs’ favor. Cleveland covered three straight as a home favorite after a miserable 6-23 run as home chalk over the first two-thirds of the season. In the first meeting between these two, New Orleans benefited from a triple-double from since-injured C DeMarcus Cousins, while LeBron James was outplayed by Anthony Davis, who had 30 pts. and 14 rebounds. The Pelicans also got 29 pts from PG Jrue Holiday that night. Cavs have some momentum and are battling to hold on to a home court in first round, so would lay price with Cleveland. |
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03-30-18 | 76ers -8 v. Hawks | 101-91 | Win | 100 | 3 h 49 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philly has been devouring these lesser teams down the stretch as it ramps up for the playoffs with 7 straight wins after Monday’s romp past the Nuggets. Hawks mostly non-competitive in dropping 9 of last 11 vs. number into Minnesota on Wednesday, but just in case note that Dennis Schroder (scored 41 in shock win at Utah last week) and emerging 2nd year Taurean Prince (23.6 ppg his last 8 thru March 27) capable on shooting Atlanta into a game, so will draw the line at double digits. It was early in the season when Philly beat Atlanta by 10 at Wells Fargo Center, covering a 7 1/2 point spread in the process. |
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03-29-18 | Pacers -7.5 v. Kings | 106-103 | Loss | -108 | 25 h 60 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units As Sacramento tanks away the rest of its season while giving “developmental time” (nice term for tank) to kids down the stretch, Indiana taking these games seriously as Pacers still have a shot at the 3 seed in the East with a strong finish. The gears have admittedly been grinding a bit on the attack end, as Indy has seen the league’s biggest drop in offensive efficiency (5.7 points per 100 possessions) since the All-Star break, with five different rotation guys (including Victor Oladipo) having shot less than 30 percent from 3-point range. But they made three of their five 3-point attempts in overtime on Sunday vs. the Heat, as they clinched a playoff spot. The latter must seem like pure fantasy these days to Kings fans. |
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03-28-18 | Blazers -6.5 v. Grizzlies | 103-108 | Loss | -102 | 4 h 28 m | Show | |
Rating; 2 Units It seems hard to remember, but Memphis was once good enough this season to win a game at Portland way back on Nov. 7, when David Fizdale was still coaching Griz and regarded fondly in the Bluff City, and Mike Conley (remember him?) scored 20 points. How a few months changes things. Now the only question is how much of a price we want to lay with the Blazers. Memphis entered this week having lost 23 of its past 24 games before a shock win vs. T-wolves, but the low point of the season came last Thursday in a franchise-record 61-point loss to the Hornets. This was the largest margin of defeat for any team since February 1998, and Memphis’ 55-point hole through three quarters was tied for the largest such deficit in the shot clock era. |
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03-28-18 | Knicks v. 76ers -12.5 | 101-118 | Win | 100 | 4 h 32 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philly has won all three previous meetings though failed to cover 9 ½-point spread at MSG on March 15. Joel Embiid played that night and scored 29 points for Sixers, and while he is probably due to take a rest over the final two weeks of the regular season, the schedule breaks kindly this week and he likely plays tonight. Philly now has a 7-game win streak after winning big vs. Denver on Monday, covering the last five of those, while “over” 5-1-1 those 7. The Knicks lead the group of tankers into this week solely because of their shocking road win against the Wizards on Sunday, but otherwise hard to find many takers at moment for New York. |
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03-25-18 | Hawks v. Rockets -12 | 99-118 | Win | 100 | 8 h 21 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Houston Rockets set a franchise record for victories in a season by defeating New Orleans on Saturday and can reach the 60-win mark for the first time when they host the Atlanta Hawks today. James Harden bounced back from a rough shooting effort in a victory over Detroit on Thursday to score 28 points and hand out eight assists in the 114-91 triumph against the Pelicans. The Rockets' eighth consecutive win gave them a 4 1/2-game lead over Golden State in the race for first place in the Western Conference with nine contests remaining. Clint Capela dominated inside with 18 points, 16 rebounds and six blocked shots for Houston, which has matched the second-longest streak in franchise history with 15 straight wins at home. The Hawks are 1-3 on their six-game road trip and have lost eight of nine overall after falling 106-94 at Golden State on Friday. |
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03-25-18 | Celtics -6.5 v. Kings | 104-93 | Win | 100 | 6 h 25 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Boston took no prisoners in first meeting, played back on Nov. 1, when the Celtics were in the midst of a quick start. Star PG Kyrie Irving was integral to the Celt victory with 22 pts., while G Jaylen Brown matched him in points while grabbing 6 boards. Irving is likely still out for Boston, but Brown should be nearly through with the concussion protocol by the time this one is played. The Celtics’ 24-10 spread mark away from home this season impressive, even more so if you consider they are 10-2 the last 12 through March 22. Celtic's HC Brad Stevens will remind his team of its 16-point loss in Sacramento last year. |
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03-25-18 | Cavs -6.5 v. Nets | 121-114 | Win | 100 | 1 h 17 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Cleveland Cavaliers are starting to put the pieces together as they get set for another playoff run and ran their winning streak to four in a row by trouncing the Phoenix Suns 120-95 on Friday. The Cavaliers will try to keep it rolling on the road when they open a three-game trip by visiting the Brooklyn Nets today. Cleveland, which will play five of its remaining 10 games against teams with losing records, is getting healthy as well and welcomed back Rodney Hood (back), Tristan Thompson (ankle) and Larry Nance Jr. (hamstring) in Friday's win and is just waiting on Kyle Korver (personal) and Cedi Osman (hip) to get back. |
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03-24-18 | Pelicans +8.5 v. Rockets | 91-114 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 8 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units New Orleans has given Houston problems, covering 3 straight and 11 of the last 17 in the series. The Rockets are pushing for the best record in the league, and they’ve been tough to beat at home, winning 13 straight. However, Mike D’Antoni’s side was a much less impressive 5-10 vs. the number in its last 15 as a favorite at the Toyota Center prior to hosting Detroit on Thursday. Pelican PF Anthony Davis and PG Jrue Holiday have combined for 52 ppg against Houston this season, and N.O. is 7-1 SU and vs. the number in its last 8 on the road ? |
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03-24-18 | Bulls +11.5 v. Pistons | 95-117 | Loss | -105 | 18 h 39 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Things haven’t worked out as anticipated for Detroit, as Stan Van Gundy’s team is just 3-13 SU L16 thru March 18, a streak compiled shortly after the trade for Blake Griffin. Griffin has scored 19.6 ppg on 42% shooting with a 5.4 rebound average. Not too bad, but well below his numbers in 20 games with the Clippers this season. Chicago playing pretty competitively in the week leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, covering all 4 with a 2-2 SU mark despite HC Fred Hoiberg “pulling his punches” and sitting some of his most productive contributors. The Pistons have covered just 3 of 15 chances this season laying 4 pts. or more at Little Caesar’s Arena, and they won’t get any sympathy from the refs after Van Gundy loudly and publicly called out the refs in a recent loss. |
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03-24-18 | Wolves v. 76ers -7.5 | 108-120 | Win | 100 | 17 h 2 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philadelphia is 14-2 SU in its last 16 at the Wells Fargo Center. Philly notched a win at Minnesota in first meeting, overcoming an outburst by Timberwolf swingman Jimmy Butler, who scored 38 pts. in 46 minutes. Butler was matched by Philly C Joel Embiid (a stat-stuffing 28 pts., 12 rebs. and 8 assists) and G J.J. Redick (26 pts.), while overcoming an embarrassing 7 turnovers by rookie PG Ben Simmons. Minny has been sour on the road, going 3-14 SU and 4-13 vs. the number in its last 17 away from the Target Center through Monday night. Now Philly won’t have to deal with Jimmy Butler (knee surgery; hoping to return for playoffs). |
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03-23-18 | Heat v. Thunder -6 | 99-105 | Push | 0 | 5 h 58 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units OKC has turned it up a notch at the right time, winning last 6 (5-1 vs. lien in those) into Tuesday‘s game at Boston. Thunder G Russell Westbrook continued to average a triple-double in the uptick, with his shooting efficiency amped up to 52% over the last 5 of those. And the addition of vet 6-9 G/F Corey Brewer has helped the locker room coalesce as well as giving OKC HC Billy Donovan additional options defensively. Brewer has been inserted as a starting guard and has helped defensively, logging 12 steals in wins over the Raptors, Clippers and Atlanta in a recent stretch. Miami was 10-3-2 vs. the points in its last 15 prior to visiting Cleveland Monday, but with C Hassan Whiteside possibly still out with a hip problem and G Dwyane Wade sidelined with a hamstring problem, look for surging Thunder to continue to jell |
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03-23-18 | Wolves -7.5 v. Knicks | 108-104 | Loss | -103 | 5 h 37 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Minnesota has struggled lately, but the Timberwolves have had an extremely tough schedule. Now Tom Thibodeau’s troops are dropping in class after facing 8 straight foes that are in playoff position or strong contention. New York is definitely not in that category. The Knicks were 8-31 SU in their last 39 through March 18 and had won just 2 of their last 14 games SU (3-11 vs. the number) at Madison Square Garden prior to hosting the Bulls Monday. T-wolves rode Karl-Anthony Towns’ 23 pts., 15 rebs. and 9 assists to a 118-108 win in Minneapolis on Jan 12, on a night when since-injured Knick F Kristaps Porzingis contributed 17 pts. and 10 boards |
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03-22-18 | Hawks v. Kings -1.5 | 90-105 | Win | 100 | 9 h 47 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units This game features two teams with a combined 43 wins. While nothing to play for but pride, the Kings hold a +22 to +6 advantage on the power ranking indicator. Atlanta won the previous meeting this season as a home favorite, However, the Hawks are just 5-28 on the road this season and Sacramento has been playing better of the two teams lately. The Kings will win this one by a margin of six to ten points. |
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03-22-18 | Jazz -8 v. Mavs | 119-112 | Loss | -115 | 7 h 21 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Utah Jazz had their nine-game winning streak halted and seek to start a new one when they open a three-game road trip against the Dallas Mavericks today. Utah suffered a damaging defeat when it fell 99-94 to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday for just its third setback in the past 24 games. The stunning home loss to one of the worst teams in the NBA dropped the Jazz into eighth place in the congested Western Conference playoff picture with just 11 games to play. Dallas is coming off a 115-105 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday and dropped three straight games and 18 of its last 24. Mavericks rookie point guard Dennis Smith Jr. (ankle) will miss his second straight game. |
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03-22-18 | Pistons v. Rockets -12.5 | 96-100 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 58 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units —It’s hard to remember, but Houston was at the tail end of its worst dip of the season (a 2-7 SU skid) when it lost by 7 at Little Caesars Arena on Jan. 6. That was also when James Harden was out in early January and before the bottom fell out of the Pistons’ season. Now the only question is how many points we feel comfy laying with the Rockets, who have not been all that reliable when asked to carry heavier prices at Toyota Center (just 6-13 laying 9½ or more at home). But it will take a lot of points to get interested in Detroit (and 12.5 isn't it), which entered the week having lost 13 of 16 SU and loser of 13 of last 17 vs. line. |
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03-22-18 | Grizzlies v. Hornets -9.5 | 79-140 | Win | 100 | 6 h 4 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units I'm not exactly enamored by the thought of laying points with Charlotte, effectively out of the playoff race and expending about as much energy on the defensive end as the Harlem Globetrotters. Fortunately for the Hornets, they are facing the NBA version of the Washington Generals in Memphis. Though the Grizzlies beat a non-tanking team (Denver) last Saturday to end a long losing streak, and Tyreke Evans has returned to active duty, it’s hard to find any silver linings in Memphis, though Dillon Brooks dropped 29 on the Bulls a week ago, which is a good sign for the developing rookie. Still, Charlotte okay as home chalk this season (16-11) |
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03-22-18 | 76ers -7.5 v. Magic | 118-98 | Win | 100 | 6 h 1 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philly hasn’t had too much trouble this season with Orlando, winning and covering twice by handy margins at Wells Fargo Center. Still, the Magic has yet to stop playing hard for Frank Vogel, though sometimes it’s a bit difficult to watch; Orlando has been pretty brutal offensively, scoring just 94 points per 100 possessions over the last two weeks (with Evan Fournier and Aaron Gordon both having missed the last five games). So there’s a good go-against case involving the Magic here. |
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03-20-18 | Thunder -4.5 v. Celtics | 99-100 | Loss | -106 | 5 h 57 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Oklahoma City has ignited in the past couple of weeks with six wins on the trot. The trigger has been an unlikely source, Corey Brewer, who has provided energy and defense since his recent addition from the Lakers and has been a key cog in the uptick that Thunder rides into TD Garden...a surge that includes a Sunday win at Toronto, stopping the Raps’ 11-game SU win streak. Meanwhile, injuries are now decimating this Boston team (Kyrie Irving out for this one with knee problems again), which can now only hope to have everyone (except Gordon Hayward) healthy for the playoffs. (Marcus Smart may not return until late in the first or early in the second round.) Celtics have lost SU their last two at home and were humbled at New Orleans on Sunday. |
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03-20-18 | Clippers +4.5 v. Wolves | 109-123 | Loss | -108 | 5 h 49 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units So far this has been Minnesota’s series this season, as T-wolves have won last three, including a pair at Staples Center vs. Clips. The T-wolves had a healthy Jimmy Butler for two of those, including a 112-106 win on Dec. 3 at Target Center when he scored 33. But there’s no timetable for his return from knee injury that Tom Thibodeau is only hoping will heal in time for the playoffs...if Minnesota gets there at all. The Wolves have mostly struggled in Butler’s absence and enter tonight having covered just 4 of their last 15. What a golden chance for Clips (still within striking distance of Minnesota entering the week) to help their playoff cause! T-wolves rank 27th in NBA defense in the nine games since the Butler injury. |
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03-20-18 | Raptors -10.5 v. Magic | 93-86 | Loss | -102 | 4 h 46 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Not sure there’s ever a good time for Orlando to be catching Toronto. But tonight might be even worse timing than usual as Raps enter Amway Center in a bitter mood following their first SU loss in almost a month on Sunday vs. the surging Thunder. Toronto had little trouble in its last visit to this building on Feb. 28, winning handily by 13 when shooting 54% from floor. For Orlando, Evan Fournier remains out with a sprained MCL, and while he is talking of getting back on the court this season, that seems unlikely. |
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03-19-18 | Grizzlies v. Nets -6.5 | 115-118 | Loss | -100 | 6 h 51 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Memphis has the lead in the race to the bottom of the overall standings, and Brooklyn isn’t far behind. However, while neither of these sides will be confused with a contender any time soon, at least Brooklyn isn’t totally pulling their punches (and players) in a blatant dive. The Nets have provided point spread value to bettors, logging a 34-23-1 spread mark from Nov. 6 through March 12, including covering 5 of the last 7 of those. Memphis had covered just 4 of its last 15 through March 11, and with C Marc Gasol’s minutes cut back to avoid injury and the mysterious rib injury that kept Griz G Tyreke Evans on the sidelines, points have been hard to come by at times for the league’s least efficient and lowest scoring attack. Griz’ starters were held to 46 pts. in Nets’ 98-88 win in Memphis Nov. 2. |
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03-19-18 | Hornets v. 76ers -8 | 94-108 | Win | 100 | 25 h 8 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Philadelphia has scored 119 ppg and shot 54% in collecting a pair of double-digit victories at Charlotte’s expense earlier this month, and this will be the third meeting in 17 days between the two teams. The Sixers’ 6-10 PG Ben Simmons scored 16 ppg, snatched 8 rpg and dished 10 apg in those wins, while Hornet PG Kemba Walker (18 ppg, 40% FGs, just 2 rpg, 6 apg) and C Dwight Howard (held to 12 total rebounds over the two games) have been minimized by Philly. The Sixers are a dominant 20-9 vs. the points at the Wells Fargo Center this season, and Charlotte’s 7-15-2 spread mark on the road through March 12 dovetails the tech factors. |
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03-18-18 | Blazers +2.5 v. Clippers | 122-109 | Win | 100 | 11 h 12 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Portland played last night at home against Detroit, but the Blazers are 16-5 SU and 14-6-1 vs. the points in their last 21 chances when unrested dating back to New Year’s Day 2017. The Clippers are just 3-8 vs. the points in their last 11 at home, and the visitor has covered 5 of the last 6 in the series. The Blazers have done a nice job defensively on L.A. G Lou Williams, who shot just 29% in the first two games with Portland. Meanwhile, Blazer Gs Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum combined for 46 ppg and made 48% of their shots from beyond the arc against the Clips. |
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03-18-18 | Rockets -7 v. Wolves | 129-120 | Win | 100 | 8 h 45 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Houston won and covered first 3 meetings with Minnesota this season, with the Rockets scoring 121 ppg and surviving some off shooting by leader James Harden (35% vs. Minnesota). It’s difficult to make a case that streak will end, especially considering Houston’s 22-10 mark laying points on the road and the Timberwolves’ 3-9 spread stretch from Feb. 25 through March 12. Minnesota C Karl-Anthony Towns averaged 25 & 14 against the Rockets this year, but T-wolf HC Tom Thibodeau had the services of Jimmy Butler for each of the first three. Houston’s Feb. 13 win snapped Minnsota’s 13-game home winning streak. |
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03-18-18 | Thunder v. Raptors -6.5 | 132-125 | Loss | -108 | 2 h 48 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Toronto has been dynamite at home, winning 11 of last 12 SU and covering 7 of their last 10 prior to hosting Dallas on Friday, and has won 15 of its last 16 through March 12. Raptor G DeMar DeRozan continues to ignite his team, scoring 24 ppg since the all-star break, and running an offense that’s scored 115 ppg and made 13 treys per game since the break. The Thunder handed Toronto a 124-107 defeat in Oklahoma City on Dec. 27, when F Paul George poured in 33 pts. and Russell Westbrook added 30 (and 13 assists). Thunder C Steven Adams might be nursing a sore ankle, and consistent Raptors seem intent on maintaining the best record in the East. |
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03-17-18 | Pistons v. Blazers -8.5 | 87-100 | Win | 100 | 10 h 25 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units An 11-game winning streak is apparently not something that earns a team a great deal of separation in the Western Conference, though the Portland Trail Blazers have certainly improved their outlook. The Trail Blazers will try to make it 12 straight and keep their firm grasp on the No. 3 spot in the West when they host the Detroit Pistons today. Portland's 11-game surge leaves it two games up on the fourth-place Oklahoma City Thunder entering play on Friday but still only 4 1/2 games in front of the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets tied for ninth. The Pistons' odds of making the playoffs are getting longer as they sit 5 1/5 games behind the eighth-place Miami Heat in the East heading into play on Friday. Detroit is not enjoying much success against West postseason contenders on the current six-game road trip and fell at Utah and Denver on the first two stops. |
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03-17-18 | Hornets -6.5 v. Knicks | 101-124 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 60 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Charlotte Hornets will try to extend the New York Knicks' misery when the teams meet today in Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have lost nine straight after Thursday's 118-110 setback against Philadelphia, blowing a 13-point lead in the second half in their eight consecutive defeat at home. New York has not lost 10 in a row since a 16-game skid in 2014-15 and likely won't end this one until it can figure out how to make some stops, as opponents are averaging 118.6 points during the losing streak. The Hornets had no issues on the offensive end in a 129-117 win at Atlanta on Thursday. Dwight Howard finished with 33 points and 12 rebounds and is averaging 26.8 and 9.6 over his last five games for Charlotte, which snapped a four-game road losing streak with the victory. |
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03-17-18 | Rockets -7 v. Pelicans | 107-101 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 34 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Houston knocked off potential West playoff opponents in each of the last two games, beating San Antonio and the Los Angeles Clippers at home, and will face three more on the road trip with stops at Minnesota and Portland after New Orleans. The road trip is the longest remaining excursion of the regular season for the Rockets, who play eight of their final 11 games at home. The Pelicans enter play on Friday in sixth place in the West, one game behind the fourth-place Oklahoma City Thunder but just 1 1/2 games clear of the 10th-place Denver Nuggets. New Orleans is not having much success against teams in the playoff race of late and dropped three of its last four, including a 98-93 setback on Thursday at a San Antonio squad that trails it in the West. |
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03-16-18 | Kings v. Warriors -9.5 | 98-93 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 18 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Golden State continues to look up at the Rockets in the Western Conference, while the Kings are among the worst in the league. The Warriors are “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator, while the Kings are 3-7 in their last ten and are “average” status. The Warriors have a 2-1 series lead this season. Sacramento is tied for ninth in Team Volatility, meaning they generally lose as an underdog and win as a favorite. All signs point towards the Warriors to cruise in this one to keep pace with the Rockets. |
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03-16-18 | Heat v. Lakers -4 | 92-91 | Loss | -103 | 10 h 18 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Heat enter as the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference and the Lakers are out of the playoff picture in the Western Conference. However, Los Angeles has won seven of their last ten games and took the first meeting between the teams as a road underdog. Miami has slight edges in both the Power Ranking Indicator (+19 to +15) and on the Team Strength Oscillator (“average up” versus “average”). Los Angeles is tied for ninth in Team Volatility and should be a slight home favorite, so I see the Lakers edging the Heat to take the season series, 2-0. |
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03-16-18 | Clippers v. Thunder -4.5 | 113-121 | Win | 100 | 8 h 49 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units In this match up, both teams are battling for playoff position in the Western Conference. The Thunder have a +24 to +20 edge on the Power Ranking Indicator. Winners of the first two meetings this season, Oklahoma City is “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator versus “average up” for the Clippers. Another indication to go with the Thunder is that Los Angeles is sixth in Team Volatility. The Clippers will be a road underdog, so the Thunder should walk away with their third head-to-head victory this season without defeat. |
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03-16-18 | Mavs v. Raptors -10.5 | 115-122 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 19 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Raptors come in with the best record in the Eastern Conference, while the Mavericks have been eliminated in the Western Conference. Toronto has a +28 to +22 advantage on the Power Ranking Indicator and +2.16 to -5.53 on the Team Strength Oscillator. Surprisingly, Dallas took the first meeting as a home underdog. I don’t see that same happening in Toronto. The Raptors will dispose of the Mavericks relatively easy to stay on top in the playoff race. |
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03-16-18 | Celtics -6 v. Magic | 92-83 | Win | 100 | 7 h 53 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Boston looks to catch Toronto in the division and conference, while the Magic try to avoid the basement in the conference. Boston holds a +26 to +7 advantage on the Power Ranking Indicator and are “burning hot” versus “ice cold down” on the Team Strength Oscillator. The Celtics also hold a 2-1 season series advantage. There is little indication that Orlando can pull off an upset in this one. I go with Boston in a double-digit victory. |
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03-16-18 | Nets v. 76ers -8 | 116-120 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 52 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The 76ers are among a six-team battle for third through eighth in the Eastern Conference, while the Nets have one of the worst records in the conference. Philadelphia has a surprising only slim +14 to +11 edge on the Power Ranking Indicator and are “average down” versus “ice cold up” on the Team Strength Oscillator. The 76ers have won two of three meetings between the teams this season. Another indication to bet on Philadelphia is they are fifth in Team Volatility and will be a home favorite. I see the 76ers winning this at home to keep pace in the Eastern Conference playoff race. |
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03-13-18 | Pistons v. Jazz -8.5 | 79-110 | Win | 100 | 8 h 55 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units If Stan Van Gundy’s job prospects in Detroit for next season are really hinging upon the Pistons making the playoffs, then get ready to see SVG on ESPN or TNT in 2018-19 as it looks as if his team is going to fall short. As of yet the Blake Griffin addition has not translated into enough wins; Detroit is just 2-10 SU and vs. line last 12 into Bulls game on March 9, not the sort of return on investment that was expected after adding big Blake from the Clips. Would rather back Utah, revving up again with four SU wins in a row thru March 8 after a brief lull following the All-Star break, and already a winner vs. Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on Jan. 24 at the outset of what would become an 11-game Jazz SU win streak into All-Star break. |
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03-13-18 | Clippers -6.5 v. Bulls | 112-106 | Loss | -102 | 7 h 2 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units While Clips still scratching and clawing to get into West playoff mix, Bulls simply headed full speed into the draft lottery. Chicago needed an even-worse Memphis to slow the rapid descent in March 7 Bulls win, but Fred Hoiberg’s bunch had lost SU in 14 of previous 17, and the arrow has been pointing straight down since Niko Mirotic’s trade to the Pelicans signaled surrender for this season. Absence of Robin Lopez for Bulls has meant that Hoiberg is forced to use Cristiano “Ronaldo” Felicio, who recently recorded a woeful -17 point differential in just 25 minutes of floor time against the Mavs on March 2. Too many reasons to go against the Bulls to shy away from playoff-chasing Clips, who won and covered 5 of 7 on most recent road trip. |
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03-13-18 | Hornets v. Pelicans -4.5 | 115-119 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 58 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Keep an eye on the injury report, as Anthony Davis had to leave the last two of New Orleans’ 10-game win streak thru March 8 (the second time, March 7 at Sacramento, exiting in 3rd Q after rolling an ankle). With the ”Uni-Brow” entering the MVP discussion by scoring nearly 40 ppg during the uptick, his presence is obviously important. But unless Davis is definitely out, have no interest in bucking the hot Pels, who were not only scoring almost 125 ppg in the win streak, but playing some defense, as they’ve posted top ten numbers on stop end during the ascent. New Orleans also in a stretch of 8 of 9 at home that can help solidify a playoff berth in West, something that appears increasingly out of reach in East for the Hornets, whose 4-game skid thru March 7 has effectively knocked them from serious playoff contention |
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03-13-18 | Raptors -8.5 v. Nets | 116-102 | Win | 100 | 7 h 35 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Expect Toronto to at least be on the alert for this matchup vs. Brooklyn after sleepwalking its way to a narrow 114-113 OT escape in last meeting on Jan. 8. But overlooking Nets might have been understandable after Raps won by 33 in previous meeting on Dec. 15 north of the border when Toronto shot almost 56% from floor and DeMar DeRozan scored 31. Brooklyn slumping again into March (1-13 SU last 14 into last Thursday vs. Hornets) though Nets covering some inflated numbers lately (5 of 6 into Charlotte game). Toronto’s recent 14-game streak thru March 8 (13-1 SU, 10-4 vs. line) a bit more impressive as Raps bearing down to secure top East seed in fast-approaching playoffs. |
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03-13-18 | Thunder -6 v. Hawks | 119-107 | Win | 100 | 6 h 17 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Oklahoma City is 15-6 ATS in their last 21 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes of the previous day. While Atlanta is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS loss, 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up loss, and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. In addition, Oklahoma City is 1-3 ATS in the last 14 meetings in Atlanta and 19-8 ATS in the last 27 meetings overall. |
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03-12-18 | Spurs v. Rockets -11.5 | 93-109 | Win | 100 | 6 h 20 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Like much involving Houston this season, battles vs. San Antonio have turned into a Rockets party, with Houston winning and covering handily in first two meetings. This is what Rockets have admittedly been doing against almost every foe lately, as SU win streak had mushroomed to 17 in a row (13–4 vs. line) thru March 8. Meanwhile it is not inconceivable that Spurs could miss playoffs as they are having trouble finding traction with Kawhi Leonard still sidelined (though perhaps back soon) and various nagging hurts (Pau Gasol, LaMarcus Aldridge) elsewhere on roster. Coach Pop looking for answers, as usually-stout SA defense has fallen off, giving up 6 more points per 100 than their season average in recent 3-8 SU skid. Transition defense in particular was an issue during this stretch. Getting Rudy Gay back is not going to help on the stop end, but Pop needs his shot creation until (if) Leonard returns. |
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03-11-18 | Pacers v. Celtics -6.5 | 99-97 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 53 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Boston Celtics have suffered only a three-point loss at Western Conference-leading Houston since the All-Star break, winning their other six games in that stretch by an average of 14 points. They will look to stay hot and keep close in the race for the top spot in the East when they host the Indiana Pacers today. Boston got past Minnesota on the road 117-109 on Thursday to clinch a playoff spot. Boston is 2 1/2 games behind first-place Toronto and comfortably ahead of a six-team pack fighting for the rest of the playoff spots, a group that includes the Pacers. Irving averages 24.8 points on 54.5 percent shooting, 6.3 assists and 5.7 rebounds since the All-Star break for the Celtics. |
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03-11-18 | Warriors -5 v. Wolves | 103-109 | Loss | -105 | 17 h 58 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Tough stretch of games for Golden State, which is coming off San Antonio and a visit to sizzling Portland. With a day off to prep and two days off after this, expect a top effort from Warriors, who are trying to make up ground on Western Conference-leading Houston. Minnesota has become a target since the injury to star swing man Jimmy Butler, but Tom Thibodeau’s team was struggling long before the injury. Minnesota is just 2-8 vs. the number in its last 10, giving up 115 ppg in that span. And Minnesota dropped its last 5 against the points facing playoff-positioned teams. |
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03-11-18 | Raptors -9.5 v. Knicks | 132-106 | Win | 100 | 3 h 31 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units New York snapped its 8-game series losing streak against Toronto on Nov. 22, but the Raptors avenged that result with a vicious 113-88 shellacking that was one of a pair of one-sided Knick losses sandwiched around that win this season. Seven Raptors have scored in double digits in the series against New York this season. The Knick problems are well-documented, with a 1-11 spread mark in its last 12 prior to facing Milwaukee on Friday. Raptors have given top effort every night in chase for the best record in the East |
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03-10-18 | Spurs +5 v. Thunder | 94-104 | Loss | -109 | 8 h 21 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Will take any points with San Antonio side that’s 2-0 as a dog against OKC this season. The Spurs have their problems, losing 8 of their last 11 into Thursday vs. Warriors to fall from 3rd to 5th in the Western Conference pecking order, and C Pau Gasol didn’t play at Golden State due to a shoulder injury. However, definitely distrust OKC side that’s been outscored 111-107, is allowing foes to shoot 48%, and has made just 32% of its treys since the all-star break. Mix in fact that the Thunder is just 7-16 vs. the number laying points at home and you have a case. With Carmelo Anthony and Paul George shooting a combined 38% over the team’s last 7 games, it’s no wonder HC Billy Donovan appears frustrated at times. |
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03-10-18 | Wizards +5 v. Heat | 102-129 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 24 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units This is a quick turnaround from Tuesday’s series meeting in Washington when the Wizards took a 117-113 decision in OT at the Capital One Arena behind the sharpshooting of Bradley Beal. Beal sank 12 o 16 attempts, including 6 of 7 on his threes to secure the victory. Miami was down 9 at the half but mounted a comeback thanks to bench efforts by Dwayne Wade (team-high 22 pts.) and Tyler Johnson (21). The Wizards played in New Orleans last night, but they are 9-5 the last 2 seasons on the road in 2nd of back-to-back games. |
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03-09-18 | Lakers +7 v. Nuggets | 116-125 | Loss | -102 | 9 h 30 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The Lakers have been playing very well, logging an 18-8 SU mark since Jan. 7, but recent injury to swing man Brandon Ingram is a worry for HC Luke Walton. That being said, Denver is 1-6 vs. the points overall in its last 7, including 4 straight spread losses at the Pepsi Center. The Lakers have benefited from the return of PG Lonzo Ball, who’s made 50% of his treys over the past 5 games, and blending in of Isaiah Thomas (19 ppg & 6.8 apg off the bench in L5Gs) are solid buy signs. Denver has given up 116 ppg and 51% in its last 10 games. |
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03-09-18 | Jazz -9.5 v. Grizzlies | 95-78 | Win | 100 | 8 h 35 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Utah has been on a tear since the last week in January, as the Jazz have won 16 of their last 18 SU and are 11-6-1 vs. the number since winning in Detroit Jan. 24. One of the wins in that run was a 92-88 victory at the FedEx Forum on Feb. 7. The Jazz didn’t cover that trip to Memphis, as vet F Derrick Favors, C Rudy Gobert and super rookie Donovan Mitchell combined to make just 6 of 21 shots. A 29-point effort by Jazz PG Ricky Rubio and a 28-12 edge in free throws made was enough to get the win, and the Jazz held a 10-point lead with 31 seconds left before Dillon Brooks and Mario Chalmers hit late treys to claim a backdoor cover. Utah is in a dead heat with the Clippers and Denver for the final playoff spot, so they desperately need this win with a trip to red-hot New Orleans scheduled for Sunday. |
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03-09-18 | Rockets -2 v. Raptors | 105-108 | Loss | -115 | 7 h 11 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The two conference leaders collide. The first meeting went Toronto’s way, with the Raptors making 53% of their shots, while making Rocket kingpin James Harden work for his 38 points, as he was 8 for 25 on the night. Harden also had an embarrassing 9 turnovers! Rocket G Eric Gordon hit only 3 of 12 shots, and key Houston all-star Chris Paul didn’t play that night. The Rockets have won 17 straight games and are 9-1 SU and 10-0 vs. the points in their last 10 on the road, and are 36-2 with Harden and Paul in the lineup together. Toronto unlikely to duplicate its 14 of 30 performance from beyond the arc in Houston, and Paul’s added presence this time around can’t be minimized. |
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03-08-18 | Spurs v. Warriors -11 | 107-110 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 25 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units The intrigue is quickly leaving this rivalry that once had the ability to captivate NBA Nation. Not so this season, with focused Golden State rolling to a pair of easy wins and covers vs. the ever-depleted Spurs, who now might be looking at LaMarcus Aldridge on the shelf with ankle problems to go along with Kawhi Leonard (might return sometime in March) and perhaps even Paul Gasol. Warriors have played in some breathtaking spurts since the All-Star break as they ramp up for another run at the ring, and even at full strength Coach Pop would be hard-pressed to change this season’s series dynamics. |
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03-07-18 | Pelicans -5.5 v. Kings | 114-101 | Win | 100 | 7 h 16 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Not the Boogie Cousins reunion as earlier meetings this season but some interesting stuff nonetheless as the road dog has won outright all three match ups, including a pair of surprise Sacramento successes at Smoothie King Center. That was all, however, before Pelicans began to ramp things up a few weeks ago, with SU win streak at 7 after win at Spurs on Feb. 28, and Anthony Davis scoring almost 40 ppg during that stretch. For those considering a contrarian vote on Kings, note that into last week the bottom seven teams in the NBA had combined to lose 41 straight games, with Sacramento’s latest SU skid at five straight into March. Scoring 127 ppg in their uptick, hard to see Pelicans getting outgunned by this Kings lot at Golden 1 Center. |
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03-07-18 | Rockets -6 v. Bucks | 110-99 | Win | 100 | 5 h 10 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units This could prove rather entertaining as was the 115-111 Houston win (but Milwaukee cover) at Toyota Center back on Dec. 16. James Harden (scored 31) and the Greek Freak (added 28) put on a good show that night, when Harden needed help from Chris Paul (scored 25) to help Rockets survive. Since then, however, Milwaukee has jettisoned HC Jason Kidd, and interim Joe Prunty finding it a bit harder against improved opposition in recent weeks, as Milwaukee had dropped 4 of 5 SU into March. Meanwhile Houston 20-9 as road chalk after last night's demolition of Oklahoma City |
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03-07-18 | Raptors -5.5 v. Pistons | 121-119 | Loss | -100 | 5 h 8 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Just as the vultures were starting to circle at Little Caesars Arena as the Blake Griffin experiment seemed to be going off the rails and likely taking Stan Van Gundy’s job with it, Detroit circled the wagons for a home romp past the Bucks on Feb. 28 to maintain a playoff pulse. But replicating that sort of effort against a Toronto side that blasted Pistons by 27 in their last meeting (pre-Griffin) on Jan. 17 might be a tall order for Detroit, which among other things has not made much of a fortress out of its new arena (just 13-18-2 vs. line at home). That recent W vs. the Bucks was also only the third Pistons cover in last 18 vs. line, making some Detroit die hard's wish for the days of Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley. |
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03-06-18 | Knicks v. Blazers -9 | 87-111 | Win | 100 | 9 h 32 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Portland caught the Knicks during the height of “Kristaps mania” back in late November but still beat NY at MSG by 103-91 count. Porzingis tried his best that night (scoring 22) but Knicks couldn’t do anything about Damian Lillard who burned them for 32. Sobering for NY is that in rematch, Porzingis is out and Lillard very much in the Portland fold. At one point this season we would have been interested in giving Knicks a shot in dog role, but probably not now on heels of 1-9 spread skid into March. Meanwhile Portland had dropped just 5 of last 17 vs. line into last Thursday’s game vs. T-wolves. |
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03-06-18 | Nuggets -5 v. Mavs | 107-118 | Loss | -115 | 7 h 10 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Home team has won first three meetings to date this season, though Dallas covered in each of those. But things a bit different since the last time these two tangoed on Jan. 27, as Paul Millsap has returned to active duty for Denver and the Mavericks’ season has continued to go south, with SU losses in 15 of 19 heading into last Friday’s game vs. the Bulls (which is solace for those who don’t like Mark Cuban, knowing the Dallas owner will be obliged to watch). Hard to find many silver linings at moment for Mavs, who rank 28th offensively in their recent slump. Further, their three small guards--- Dennis Smith Jr., Yogi Ferrell and J.J. Barea--have shot a combined 38 percent during skid, while Smith ranks as the league’s least effective shooter (minimum 100 shots) over the last month. Moreover, their latest starting lineup (with Barea and Smith in the backcourt) has allowed 117 points per 100 possessions over the past two weeks. Otherwise, all is fine in Big D. Playoff hungry Nuggets can’t afford to blow games like this one. |
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03-06-18 | Rockets -5 v. Thunder | 122-112 | Win | 100 | 7 h 54 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Houston might relish the revenge role, which it used to its advantage in recent beat down of the Clippers at the Staples Center. Now the focus is on an Ok City side that won on Christmas at the Peake when Russell Westbrook (scored 31) outgunned James Harden. But Houston was minus Chris Paul in late December and with Paul in the fold the Rockets had unfurled a 14-game SU win streak into last Saturday vs. Boston (Paul only missed one of those 14 games). And Thunder now minus defensive ace Andre Roberson. Ok City remains a risky investment, dropping 9 of last 12 vs. line into March, and if GM Sam Presti can’t find another wing on the buyout market, erratic Thunder might find itself in a struggle just to get out of the first round of playoffs. |
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03-06-18 | Hawks v. Raptors -12.5 | 90-106 | Win | 101 | 6 h 48 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units It’s been like stealing candy from a baby for Toronto against Atlanta this season, and Raps have romped to three DD wins and spread covers at Hawks’ expense. Not sure that changes here, as Atlanta playing for some date down the road (2021? 2022?), with Mike Budenholzer turning over more playing time to young guys; John Collins now in the starting lineup and Isaiah Taylor saw a big minutes bump in February. Meanwhile Toronto looking to solidify its hold as the top seed in the East and had lost SU in just 1 of 10 into last Friday vs. the Wiz. Still, expect Dwane Casey to keep an eye on the defense, as the starting lineup allowed an alarming 115 points per 100 possessions in a recent four-game stretch. That should require some fine tuning and should keep Raps sharp enough to hammer Hawks again. |
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03-05-18 | Magic v. Jazz -9.5 | 80-94 | Win | 100 | 8 h 18 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units Utah hit one of its high notes earlier this season on the same night Orlando might have touched a low when Jazz romped by 40 at Amway Center on Nov. 18. Utah “D was smothering that night, holding Magic to 38% FG shooting. Things have gotten a bit better for Orlando since, at least vs. spread (14-6 last 20 thru March 1), though Magic was on a 6-game SU skid heading into last Friday’s game vs. Pistons as return of both Aaron Gordon and Nikola Vucevic to active duty hasn’t translated into wins. Meanwhile Utah has not regained the momentum it had before All-Star break when uncorking 11 wins in a row, dropping 2 of 3 SU and vs. spread since into last Friday vs. Twolves. Utah was, however, able to get well in recent win streak vs. teams at Orlando’s level, and the first meeting suggests some problematic fundamental match ups here for Magic. |
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03-05-18 | Celtics -7.5 v. Bulls | 105-89 | Win | 100 | 7 h 21 m | Show | |
Rating: 2 Units After losing by 23 to Chicago when the Bulls were heating up (remember those days?) in mid December, Boston avenged that loss twelve nights later on Dec. 23 when rolling by 25 at TD Garden. All Celtic starters scored in DDs that night led by Kyrie Irving’s 25 points. Chicago since is heading full-speed into the draft lottery with latest skid at 5 games into last Friday vs. Dallas. Bulls’ Zach LaVine is showing some offensive promise, scoring 17.7 points per game and shooting 39.5% from three since his return in Chicago. However, it’s the other end of the floor that’s a concern — the Bulls are 8.2 points per 100 possessions better defensively when LaVine sits. One of many issues Fred Hoiberg won’t be solving anytime soon. |
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