Cnotes 2014 NBA Playoff Best Bets- News,Stats-Trends !

[CNOTES]

Game 4 - Thunder at Clippers

May 10, 2014


Oklahoma City (65-27) at L.A. Clippers (62-30)

Western Conference Semifinals
Game 4 - Oklahoma City leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Sunday, 3:35 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line and Total: Los Angeles -4.5, Total: 215

The Thunder look to take a commanding series lead on Sunday afternoon as they take on the Clippers in Game 4 at Staples Center.

Another barn-burner ensued in this Western Conference Semifinal series on Friday night as Oklahoma City defeated Los Angeles 118-112 as four-point underdogs, marking the third straight game that the two teams have each broken the 100-point barrier. The difference in the Game 3 matchup was quality over quantity, as the Clippers took 93 shots, making just 42 of them (45% FG), while the Thunder were an efficient 44-for-79 (56% FG) from the field. Amazingly, L.A. had just six turnovers in the game, its lowest total in the past 15 games. The leader for Oklahoma City was once again SF Kevin Durant, as he put up a game-high 36 points and was helped out by another near triple-double by PG Russell Westbrook (23 points, 13 points, 8 rebounds). PF Blake Griffin had a huge game in the loss, scoring 34 points to go with eight rebounds and three blocks. With the victory, the Thunder pushed their road record to 28-17 SU this season, while going just 22-22-1 ATS.

Meanwhile, the Clippers still have just nine SU losses at home (37-9) this season and are 23-23 ATS. Before Game 3, the teams had flip-flopped SU and ATS wins over the previous seven meetings, a trend that was broken by Oklahoma City in Game 3 to improve the club to 4-3 (SU and ATS) against its opponent this season. Over the past three seasons, the Thunder hold an 8-6 edge (SU and ATS) against L.A. with the Over going 10-4. Both teams have positive betting trends for Sunday's Game 4, as Oklahoma City is now 11-1 ATS versus very good teams (6+ PPG margin) this season, but the Clippers don't fall victim to many losing streaks, going 20-9 ATS after an SU loss this season. SF Hedo Turkoglu (back) of the Clippers continues to be the only significant injury in this series and he is out indefinitely.

The Thunder’s offense was great all season long on the road, averaging 104.4 PPG (46% FG) there, and they are putting up 105.0 PPG (46% FG) overall this postseason. SF Kevin Durant (30.2 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.3 BPG in playoffs) has built off his regular season MVP performance with 30+ points in 7-of-10 postseason games, including 34.0 PPG, 10.0 RPG and 7.5 APG over the team’s past two wins. PG Russell Westbrook (26.2 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 8.3 APG, 1.4 SPG in playoffs) nearly had his fourth triple-double in six games on Friday night while scoring 23 points on 7-of-14 shooting, dishing out 13 assists and grabbing eight rebounds. He has been much more selective with his shots in this series, shooting an incredible 58% from the field after posting a mark of 38% FG in the first round against the Grizzlies.

PF Serge Ibaka (13.7 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.2 BPG in playoffs) had his highest scoring total of the playoffs in Friday’s win, scoring 20 points on a blistering 9-of-10 shooting from the field. The only shot that he missed came from three-point range. He has also stayed fresh with only 29.7 MPG in this series after being on the court for 37.6 MPG in the opening round. PG Reggie Jackson (10.7 PPG, 4.0 RPG in playoffs) had his best game of the series on Friday with 14 points, but added just one assist and one rebound.

The Clippers are known for their offense after leading the league in points scored over the regular season (107.9 PPG), and have tallied 111.0 PPG (47% FG) in the postseason. Their defense has really struggled though, allowing opponents to drop a hefty 108.0 PPG (47% FG) in the playoffs, including 111.7 PPG surrendered to the Thunder in this series. PG Chris Paul (19.2 PPG, 10.0 APG, 2.8 SPG in playoffs) has averaged 12.3 APG over the first three games of the second round and had 21 points and 16 assists in Friday’s loss. He has been a nuisance on the defensive end as well, and has 3+ steals in three of the past four contests. PF Blake Griffin (23.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.0 BPG in playoffs) was huge in Game 3 with his third 30-point performance of the playoffs has he went for 34 points while adding eight rebounds and three blocks. It was easily his best performance of this series so far, and he is shooting a solid 82% from the free-throw line over these three games compared to the 69% FT that he shot against the Warriors in the first round.

C DeAndre Jordan (10.9 PPG, 13.0 RPG, 3.1 BPG in playoffs) has not been the dominant force that he was in the first round, and is averaging just 8.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG and 1.0 BPG in this series. He did have his best game of this round on Friday though, going for 10 points and 11 rebounds while adding three blocks. SG Jamal Crawford (16.1 PPG in playoffs) had 20 points (6-of-18 FG, 1-of-5 threes) in Game 3, but is shooting just 33% from the field in this series; including just eight made baskets in his past 31 attempts (26% FG). SG J.J. Redick (13.5 PPG in playoffs) had just five points on 1-of-6 shooting on Friday after scoring 15.0 PPG over the first two contests of the series.

 

[CNOTES]

Game 4 - Pacers at Wizards

May 10, 2014


Indiana (62-30) at Washington (49-41)

Eastern Conference Semifinals
Game 4 - Indiana leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Sunday, 8:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line and Total: Washington -4.5, Total: 180

After scoring a franchise-low 63 points in Friday's Game 3 blowout loss, the Wizards try to regroup quickly on Sunday night when they attempt to tie up their Eastern Conference Semifinals with the Pacers.

Washington has gone ice-cold since scoring 102 points in Game 1, averaging only 72.5 PPG on 39% FG and 24% threes over two straight defeats. Indiana's first-half offense was also pretty bad on Friday (34 points), but the club scored 51 points after halftime and finished 7-of-15 from three-point range during its 85-63 rout. The Pacers improved to 24-21 SU (20-25 ATS) on the road this season, but are still a weak 28-41 ATS (41%) with less than two days' rest. Despite two straight defeats, the Wizards are still 10-2 ATS (9-3 SU) in their past 12 games, including 6-2 ATS in the postseason. Although they have been a subpar home team this season at 23-21 SU and 17-25-2 ATS, they are an excellent 40-28-1 ATS (59%) with 0-to-1 day of rest, and are a strong 22-17-1 ATS (56%) after an SU loss.

Over the past three seasons, Indiana is 10-3 SU in the nation's capital, but Washington holds the 8-5 ATS advantage in these 13 meetings. Although the Pacers are 4-15 ATS (21%) when facing a winning team in the second half of this season, they are also 20-11 ATS (65%) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points in the past three seasons. Washington is mildly concerned with PF Nene Hilario's ankle injury, but he is expected to start on Sunday, while Indiana remains without backup C Andrew Bynum (knee).

Indiana's offense wasn't very effective during the regular season (96.7 PPG on 44.9% FG and 35.7% threes), and it has been even worse in the playoffs with 92.1 PPG on 44.2% FG (37.8% threes). Turnovers have also caused problems in the postseason (13.5 TO per game), but it as seemingly corrected this problem with only 8.0 TOPG during the past two wins. The defense continues to carry the club by holding opponents to a meager 89.4 PPG on 39.0% FG during the playoffs. SF Paul George (21.9 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 4.5 APG, 2.3 SPG in playoffs) shot very well in the first round of the playoffs (46% FG, 40% threes), but he has made just 33% FG and 25% threes versus the Wizards this series. However, he was the only player for either team to eclipse 16 points on Friday, pouring in 23 points (6-of-15 FG, 2-of-4 threes, 9-of-10 FG) with eight rebounds, four assists, three steals and a +21 rating.

C Roy Hibbert (7.9 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.6 BPG in playoffs) began this series with a Game 1 dud (0 points, 0 rebounds, minus-17 rating), but has been much better in the past two games with 21.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.5 BPG and +31 rating. He was also vital to helping hold the Wizards starting frontcourt to a combined 24 points on 9-of-29 FG in Game 3. PF David West (13.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.3 BPG in playoffs) continues to give his team consistent production in all areas, and has posted a stellar +48 rating in this series, including a +27 on Friday when he scored 12 points with four assists, but only three rebounds. PG George Hill (13.2 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.7 APG in playoffs) didn't score as much in Game 3 (9 points), as he did in the first two games of the series (16.0 PPG). But he took only six shots, going 3-of-5 from three-point range and dishing out five assists to contribute to a +23 rating. SG Lance Stephenson (14.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3.3 APG in playoffs) had another poor shooting night on Wednesday (4-of-13 FG), and is now 11-of-38 FG (29%) in this series. However, he's contributing in other areas with 6.7 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.4 SPG and a +38 rating. PF Luis Scola (7.7 PPG on 46% FG in playoffs) was the only Game 3 reserve for either team with at least five points, as he contributed 11 points (4-of-8 FG) in just 15 minutes off the bench.

The Wizards have shot just 43.9% on two-point FG tries and 66.7% FT in the postseason, including a horrendous 16-of-33 FT in the past two losses. They have also misfired from long range (9-of-37 threes) during the two-game skid, but are still knocking down 37.3% three-pointers during the playoffs. This strong long-range shooting is a product of great teamwork, with the club dishing out 19.4 APG and turning the ball over only 12.1 times per game. Washington's team defense has also been excellent in the playoffs, where it has limited opponents to just 89.6 PPG on 42.3% FG, while also compiling 7.4 SPG and 6.1 BPG. SG Bradley Beal (19.6 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.6 SPG in playoffs) opened this series on fire, scoring 21.0 PPG on 15-of-33 FG (46%) in the first two games, but made just 6-of-19 FG (1-of-5 threes) with just three boards, two assists and two turnovers in the Game 3 loss. Backcourt mate PG John Wall (16.0 PPG, 7.1 APG, 4.1 RPG, 1.8 SPG in playoffs) had done an excellent job of controlling the offense with 17 assists and only two turnovers in the first two games, but he committed seven turnovers with just six assists on Friday. But after shooting horribly in the two road games in this series (6-for-27 FG, 22%), Wall hit 6-of-13 FG in Game 3.

SF Trevor Ariza (14.8 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 1.5 SPG in playoffs) had a nice bounce-back performance from a dismal Game 2 (6 points on 2-of-8 FG) with 12 points (4-of-8 FG), 15 rebounds and three steals in Game 3. The rest of Washington's frontcourt underachieved though, as C Marcin Gortat (11.4 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 1.6 BPG in playoffs) and PF Nene Hilario (15.4 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.1 BPG in playoffs) combined for only 12 points (5-of-21 FG) and 13 rebounds, which was a huge drop-off from their 35 points (17-of-29 FG) and 16 boards in Game 2. No Wizards reserve contributed more than three points or six rebounds on Friday, as the bench combined for only eight points on 3-of-12 shooting with a minus-19 rating.

 

[CNOTES]

Sunday's Playoff Tips

May 11, 2014


After the home teams went 6-2 straight-up and 5-3 against the spread the first eight games of the second round, the road underdogs bounced back on Friday night with outright victories by Indiana and Oklahoma City. Those two clubs took 2-1 series leads, as the Wizards and Clippers try to seize the opportunity on Sunday to even their respective series at 2-2 with Game 4 of the conference semifinals.

Thunder at Clippers (-5, 215 ½) – 3:30 PM EST – ABC

After splitting a pair of games in Oklahoma City, the Clippers were primed to return home and grab a 2-1 series lead over the Thunder. However, OKC shot lights out (56%) from the floor in a 118-112 triumph in Friday’s Game 3 to cash outright as 4 ½-point underdogs and +170 on the money-line. League MVP Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook combined to score 59 points for the Thunder, while Serge Ibaka connected on 9-of-10 shots from the floor for 20 points to help Oklahoma City cover for the fourth time in five games.

The Clippers received solid efforts from their top two players as Blake Griffin led the way with 34 points, while Chris Paul scored 21 points and dished out 16 assists. However, Los Angeles missed 19 three-pointers and was outrebounded by Oklahoma City, 44-33, the third straight game the Clippers have fallen short in the rebounding department. Doc Rivers’ club dropped consecutive games for the second time since the All-Star break, while hitting the ‘over’ for the fifth time in five tries at Staples Center in the playoffs.

Oklahoma City has been an extremely profitable team as an underdog since mid-January, covering six of the last seven times when receiving points, including each of the last two visits to Staples Center. Through 10 playoff games, the Thunder has hit the ‘over’ seven times, including three of four ‘overs’ on the road.

Scott Brooks’ team is listed as a -250 favorite to win this series (Bet $250 to win $100), while the Clippers are +215 to win three of the four games (Bet $100 to win $215). Los Angeles hasn’t lost consecutive contests at Staples Center this season, going 5-0 SU/ATS at home coming off a home defeat.

Pacers at Wizards (-4 ½, 180) – 8:00 PM EST – TNT

Washington knocked out Chicago in five games of the first round, then followed up that effort with a 102-96 triumph in Game 1 of the semifinals at Indiana. However, the Wizards’ offense has disappeared the last two contests, as they sit in a 2-1 hole with Game 4 tonight at the Verizon Center looking to figure out the tough Indiana defense.

In Friday’s Game 3 at the Verizon Center, the Wizards were blown out by the Pacers, 85-63, as Indiana easily covered as five-point underdogs to improve to 3-1 SU/ATS on the road in the playoffs. Indiana and Washington combined for just 67 points in the first half as the Pacers led, 34-33 at halftime. Frank Vogel’s team opened things up in the third quarter by outscoring the Wizards, 26-12, while Washington’s John Wall and Bradley Beal shot just 12-of-32 between them from the floor.

The Pacers have broken the 100-point mark only once in 10 playoff games, but have cashed the ‘under’ seven times, including all four road contests. Indiana is looking to win consecutive road contests for the third time since Thanksgiving, while going 2-5 SU/ATS the last seven road games following a road victory.

In the last 21 games as home favorite since January 1, the Wizards own a dreadful 6-15 ATS record, but Washington has lost back-to-back games at home just once since the middle of January. Randy Wittman’s club has limited its opponents to below 100 points in seven of eight postseason games, but the ‘over’ has cashed five times. In all four opportunities this season with a total of 180 ½ or below, the ‘over’ hit each time, which includes three times in the first round against the Bulls.

The Pacers opened the series at -200 to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, but have been pushed up to -240 (Bet $240 to win $100) to win two of the next four games. Meanwhile, the Wizards sit at +200 (Bet $100 to win $200) to come back and capture this series as Washington may be playing its final home game today if its offense continues to struggle.

 

[CNOTES]

2014 Playoff Results

May 11, 2014


Betting Results

Second Round
Wager Favorites-Underdogs Home-Away
Straight Up 7-5 7-5
Against the Spread 6-6 6-6
Total
Over-Under 8-4


Eastern Conference Semifinals

(E1) Indiana vs. (E5) Washington
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Washington (+4, +155) at Indiana 102-96 Underdog Over (184)
2 Washington at Indiana (-4.5) 86-82 Underdog Under (187)
3 Indiana (+5, +180) at Washington 85-63 Underdog Under (183.5)
4 Indiana at Washington - - -
5 Washington at Indiana - - -
6 Indiana at Washington - - -
7 Washington at Indiana - - -


(E2) Miami vs. (E6) Brooklyn
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Brooklyn at Miami (-8) 107-86 Favorite Over (192)
2 Brooklyn at Miami (-6.5) 94-82 Favorite Under (192)
3 Miami at Brooklyn (+1, +100) 104-90 Underdog Over (188)
4 Miami at Brooklyn - - -
5 Brooklyn at Miami - - -
6 Miami at Brooklyn - - -
7 Brooklyn at Miami - - -



Western Conference Semifinals

(W2) Oklahoma City vs. (W3) L.A. Clippers
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Los Angeles (+5.5, +200) at Oklahoma City 122-105 Underdog Over (213.5)
2 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City (-5) 112-101 Favorite Under (215)
3 Oklahoma City (+4.5, +165) at Los Angeles 118-112 Underdog Over (215)
4 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles - - -
5 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -
6 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles - - -
7 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -


(W1) San Antonio vs. (W5) Portland
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 116-92 Favorite Over (207)
2 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 114-97 Favorite Over (208.5)
3 San Antonio (PK, -110) at Portland 118-103 Favorite Over (208)
4 San Antonio at Portland - - -
5 Portland at San Antonio - - -
6 San Antonio at Portland - - -
7 Portland at San Antonio - - -

 

[varkeyboy]

		Record in the playoffs as of Saturday Night : 23 - 12 ..............................***** 20 - 18 ..............................DOUBLE PLAY 28 - 22- 1...............................TRIPLE PLAY Last 3 days: Date WLT Pct Net Units Record 05/10/14 4-*0-*0 100.00% +*2000 Detail 05/09/14 3-*1-*0 75.00% +*950 Detail 05/08/14 4-*0-*0 100.00% +*2000 Detail

<tbody>
</tbody>

Continue to destroy the books!

 

[CNOTES]

Sunday, May 11

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Oklahoma City - 3:30 PM ET Oklahoma City +5 500 DOUBLE PLAY

L.A. Clippers - Over 215 500 DOUBLE PLAY


Indiana - 8:00 PM ET Washington -4.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY

Washington - Under 180.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY

 

[CNOTES]

GOOD LUCK VARKEY BOY....................cheersgif

 

[CNOTES]

NBA
Dunkel

San Antonio at Portland
The Spurs look to follow up their 118-103 win over Portland in Game 3 and finish the sweep tonight against a Blazers team that is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 games after allowing 100 points or more in the previous game. San Antonio is the pick (-3 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Spurs favored by 8. Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-3 1/2). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

MONDAY, MAY 12

Game 729-730: Miami at Brooklyn (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 124.965; Brooklyn 126.347
Dunkel Line & Total: Brooklyn by 1 1/2; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 2 1/2; 187 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Brooklyn (+2 1/2); Over

Game 731-732: San Antonio at Portland (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 129.699; Portland 121.501
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 8; 206
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 3 1/2; 211
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-3 1/2); Under




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Monday, May 12

All three Miami-Brooklyn games were within three points at half; Nets are 5-2 vs Miami this season, 3-0 here- they made 15-25 from arc in its Game 3 win. Nets were 18-48 from arc in first two games. Brooklyn is 26-19 vs spread at home this year. Saturday's loss was first for Miami in its seven playoff games; they're 21-21 vs spread on road. Six of last ten series games went under total, five of last seven Miami games went over.

Spurs led first three games of series 65-39/70-51/60-40 at half; Portland has to be competitive before they can even win a game. Aldridge was just 15-46 from floor last two games; Blazers are -20 in turnovers so far in series. Spurs lost seven of last ten visits to Rip City, but they've won last four games with Portland overall, and figure to get lot of rest for old roster, with win here, since Clippers-Thunder look like they're going 7.

Over is 40-24 in playoffs this season, 9-5 in this round.
Favorites are 22-42 in playoffs this season, 6-8 in this round.




NBA

Monday, May 12

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Trend Report
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8:00 PM
MIAMI vs. BROOKLYN
Miami is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Brooklyn
Miami is 15-5 SU in its last 20 games when playing Brooklyn
Brooklyn is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games when playing Miami
Brooklyn is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Miami

10:30 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. PORTLAND
San Antonio is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Portland
San Antonio is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against Portland
Portland is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against San Antonio
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Portland's last 7 games when playing at home against San Antonio

 

[CNOTES]

NBA
Long Sheet

Monday, May 12

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MIAMI (60 - 29) at BROOKLYN (49 - 43) - 5/12/2014, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 7-6 against the spread versus BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 8-5 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SAN ANTONIO (69 - 23) at PORTLAND (58 - 33) - 5/12/2014, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 152-118 ATS (+22.2 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 124-96 ATS (+18.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 29-12 ATS (+15.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 67-48 ATS (+14.2 Units) after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 51-33 ATS (+14.7 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 23-13 ATS (+8.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.
PORTLAND is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) against Southwest division opponents this season.
PORTLAND is 14-25 ATS (-13.5 Units) after allowing 105 points or more this season.
PORTLAND is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) in home games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 2-12 ATS (-11.2 Units) in home games after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 25-34 ATS (-12.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
PORTLAND is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 8-5 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 8-5 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
9 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons


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NBA
Short Sheet

Monday, May 12

Miami at Brooklyn, 8:00 ET
Miami: 25-14 ATS revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite
Brooklyn: 48-68 ATS after a game where they covered the spread

San Antonio at Portland, 10:35 ET
San Antonio: 21-10 ATS off a road win by 10 points or more
Portland: 5-16 ATS in home games after a loss by 10 points or more



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NBA

Monday, May 12

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Heat at Nets: What bettors need to know
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Miami Heat at Brooklyn Nets (+2.5, 187.5)

The Brooklyn Nets have the opportunity to turn the Eastern Conference series into a best-of-three when they host the Miami Heat in Monday’s Game 4. After being beaten handily in the first two games, Brooklyn was the superior squad in Saturday’s 104-90 victory, and following up that performance with another win would tie the series at two games apiece. Miami scored just 33 total points in the middle two quarters while suffering its first postseason loss since last year.

The Nets set a franchise record with 15 3-pointers in the double-digit victory with guard Joe Johnson (five) and backup forward Mirza Teletovic (four) combining for nine. Also of note was how Brooklyn slowed down LeBron James over the final three quarters (12 points on 2-of-8 shooting) after he erupted for 16 first-quarter points on 6-of-7 shooting. “It’s a 48-minute game,” Nets coach Jason Kidd told reporters. “I’m not counting how many times you score. I’m looking at how many shots he’s taking and he was making them in the first quarter. We didn’t lose patience and we stuck with the game plan and we found a way to win.”

TV: 8 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE HEAT: Though Miami was staggered a bit in Game 3, the two-time defending champs are good at brushing off defeats. “I’ve been part of a lot of series and understand that the series is never won in two games or in three games,” James told reporters. “And you move onto the next one and you learn from the previous one how you can get better.” The Heat have followed up each of their last eight playoff defeats with a victory as they typically kick it up into a higher gear. “We didn’t have that desperation in this game,” said center Chris Bosh after Game 3, “but usually, a loss will do that and you’ll come back with it.”

ABOUT THE NETS: Strong bench play from Teletovic (12 points) and Andray Blatche (15 points, 10 rebounds) helped fuel the impressive victory. Teletovic opened up the floor with his 3-point marksmanship and Blatche operated superbly in the paint with his first career playoff double-double. Blatche was a bit intimidated by the stage in the first two games – “I wasn’t being as aggressive as I should’ve been,” he said – but in Game 3, he provided the type of energy the team needed in the second quarter. Bench play will continue to be key with point guard Deron Williams struggling on the offensive end – 3-of-20 shooting over the last two games.

TRENDS:

* Over is 19-6-1 in the last 26 meetings in Brooklyn.
* Home team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
* Heat are 4-1 ATS in their last five vs. Eastern Conference.
* Over is 5-2 in Heat last seven overall.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. The 104 points scored by the Nets marked the first time this postseason Miami allowed 100 or more.

2. Teletovic is 11-of-19 from 3-point range in the series and 33 of his 37 points have come from behind the arc.

3. Heat G Ray Allen missed his only 3-point attempt in Game 3 after making 7-of-12 over the first two games.



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NBA

Monday, May 12

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Spurs at Trail Blazers: What bettors need to know
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San Antonio Spurs at Portland Trail Blazers (+3.5, 210.5)

The San Antonio Spurs are making it look easy as they cruise toward the Western Conference finals. The Spurs will try to polish off a four-game sweep when they visit the Portland Trail Blazers for Game 4 of the semifinals on Monday. The Trail Blazers thought the change of scenery could change the complexion of the series but San Antonio was just as impressive on the road and ended up cruising to a 118-103 victory in Game 3.

No NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series and Portland is just hoping for a better effort. “We’re going to come out and have a great effort on Monday night,” Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts told reporters. “That’s the most important thing. We’re going to show our character, we’re going to show our pride and we’re going to come out and play our (rear ends) off on Monday.” The Spurs recognize that getting the final win won’t be easy. “The close-out is always the hardest game,” San Antonio guard Tony Parker said.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE SPURS: San Antonio is the fourth team in NBA history to win four straight postseason games by 15 or more points and has rarely looked vulnerable against the Trail Blazers. The Spurs held a 60-40 lead at the half in Game 3 - the third straight time they held at least a 19-point cushion at the break - and controlled the game in the second half. Parker scored 20 of his 29 points in the first half on Saturday and is averaging 26 points in the series. “(Parker) got us out of the gates,” forward Tim Duncan told reporters. “He continues to shoot the ball really well. He’s getting to his spots. He’s making great decisions for our offense.”

ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS: Portland has yet to figure out a way to slow the San Antonio offense in the first half and is struggling to get into a rhythm early with its own offense. “”It’s frustrating,” Stotts told reporters. “You’ve got to play through the frustration. It’s part of the game. It’s part of the playoffs. … But yeah, it’s frustrating to get down 20 in the first half. You look at the scoreboard and it’s a hole.” All-Stars LaMarcus Aldridge (38 percent) and Damian Lillard (37.5) are both struggling from the field in the series while Mo Williams (groin) has been a non-factor off the bench and could miss his second straight game on Monday.

TRENDS:

* Spurs are 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings.
* Spurs are 5-0 ATS in their last five Conference Semifinals games.
* Trail Blazers are 0-4 ATS in their last four home games.
* Over is 6-0 in Spurs last six overall.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. The Spurs bench is outscoring the Blazers’ reserves 140-43 in the series.

2. Lillard is just 1-of-13 from beyond the arc in the series after hitting 23-of-47 in the first round.

3. Portland has led for a total of 33 seconds in the three games.

 

[CNOTES]

Monday's Playoff Tips

May 12, 2014


The two most incredible comebacks of the postseason both happened in the same day, as the Clippers and Pacers erased large deficits for Game 4 victories on Sunday. Oklahoma City covered as five-point underdogs in spite of throwing away a 22-point lead in a 101-99 defeat, while Indiana overcame a 19-point hole to get past Washington as a three-point ‘dog to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Underdogs improved to 8-6 against the spread in the second round of the playoffs and an incredible 42-21-1 ATS in the postseason, hitting at an amazing 67% rate.

Tonight’s action involves San Antonio trying to put away Portland and advance to the Western Conference Finals, while Miami looks to bounce back after Brooklyn woke up from a two-game offensive slumber.

Heat (-2 ½, 187 ½) at Nets – 8:05 PM EST – TNT

Miami cruised to a 2-0 series lead over Brooklyn following a pair of blowouts at home, allowing an average of 84 points per game. However, when the venue shifted to the Barclays Center for Game 3 on Saturday, the Nets got back in the series with a 104-90 rout of the Heat as one-point underdogs to cut the series deficit down to 2-1.

After the ‘over’ luckily hit in Game 1, the ‘under’ of 191 ½ was never in doubt in Miami’s 94-82 dominating effort in Game 2. On Saturday night, the Heat and Nets shot lights out immediately, as Miami led 30-29 after one quarter to put the ‘over’ on a good pace. The following two quarters saw a 41-point spot and a 40-point effort, placing the ‘over’ in jeopardy, but a 54-point fourth quarter clinched the ‘over’ of 188.

The key for Brooklyn in Game 3 was the 26-14 third quarter spurt to put Miami away and seize a 14-point advantage heading into the final quarter. Jason Kidd’s team shot a blistering 52% from the floor and drilled 15 three-pointers, including four treys from Mirza Teletovic, who has knocked down 10 three-pointers in the last two games off the Brooklyn bench. On the flip side, Miami’s LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh accounted for 60 points, as this was the first game of the playoffs in which no other Heat player scored in double-figures besides the Big Three.

Brooklyn improved to 3-0 SU/ATS in three home games this season against Miami, as the Nets have won 19 of their last 22 contests at the Barclays Center (15-7 ATS). The loss was the first for the Heat in the postseason, but this team has proven it can bounce back following a defeat in the playoffs. Last postseason, Miami put together a 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS record after a loss, with the lone ATS setback coming in the dramatic Game 6 comeback against San Antonio in the NBA Finals. In fact, the Heat has won their past nine games in the playoffs off a defeat, with the last losing streak in the postseason coming against the Celtics in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals.

Spurs (-3 ½, 211) at Blazers – 10:35 PM EST – TNT

It’s amazing to think that San Antonio was on the verge of elimination in the opening round of the playoffs against Dallas. The Spurs destroyed the Mavericks in Game 7 to advance to the second round, as the defending Western Conference champions are playing like the team that won 19 straight games at one point this season by building a 3-0 series edge over the Blazers.

All three victories by the Spurs in this series have come by at least 15 points, including a 118-103 triumph in Game 3 to easily cash as a one-point underdog. San Antonio jumped out to a 20-point halftime lead, while the Spurs nailed all 25 free throw attempts. Portland’s bench scored just six points, while Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge missed a combined 28 shots from the floor as the Blazers dropped to 0-7 ATS the last seven games since covering in the first two contests against Houston in the opening round.

San Antonio is riding a six-game streak to the ‘over,’ while cashing tickets in each of the last four games following an 0-8 ATS stretch at the end of the regular season and the first six contests against Dallas. The Spurs close the door when they have to in the playoffs, pulling off sweeps in their last four playoff series after building a 3-0 lead, including sweeps last postseason over the Lakers and Grizzlies.

Portland is looking to avoid just its second losing streak of four games this season, while the Blazers haven’t dropped consecutive contests at the Moda Center. Terry Stotts’ club put together a perfect 7-0 record at home off a home loss, while going 3-1 ATS this season in the role of a home underdog, which includes a victory over the Spurs back in November.

 

[CNOTES]

2014 Playoff Results

May 12, 2014


Betting Results

Second Round
Wager Favorites-Underdogs Home-Away
Straight Up 8-6 8-6
Against the Spread 6-8 6-8
Total
Over-Under 9-5


Eastern Conference Semifinals

(E1) Indiana vs. (E5) Washington
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Washington (+4, +155) at Indiana 102-96 Underdog Over (184)
2 Washington at Indiana (-4.5) 86-82 Underdog Under (187)
3 Indiana (+5, +180) at Washington 85-63 Underdog Under (183.5)
4 Indiana (+3.5, +145) at Washington 95-92 Underdog Over (179.5)
5 Washington at Indiana - - -
6 Indiana at Washington - - -
7 Washington at Indiana - - -



(E2) Miami vs. (E6) Brooklyn
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Brooklyn at Miami (-8) 107-86 Favorite Over (192)
2 Brooklyn at Miami (-6.5) 94-82 Favorite Under (192)
3 Miami at Brooklyn (+1, +100) 104-90 Underdog Over (188)
4 Miami at Brooklyn - - -
5 Brooklyn at Miami - - -
6 Miami at Brooklyn - - -
7 Brooklyn at Miami - - -




Western Conference Semifinals

(W2) Oklahoma City vs. (W3) L.A. Clippers
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Los Angeles (+5.5, +200) at Oklahoma City 122-105 Underdog Over (213.5)
2 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City (-5) 112-101 Favorite Under (215)
3 Oklahoma City (+4.5, +165) at Los Angeles 118-112 Underdog Over (215)
4 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles (-5) 101-99 Underdog Under (214)
5 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -
6 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles - - -
7 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -



(W1) San Antonio vs. (W5) Portland
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 116-92 Favorite Over (207)
2 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 114-97 Favorite Over (208.5)
3 San Antonio (PK, -110) at Portland 118-103 Favorite Over (208)
4 San Antonio at Portland - - -
5 Portland at San Antonio - - -
6 San Antonio at Portland - - -
7 Portland at San Antonio - - -

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: Heat (54-28) at Nets (44-38)

Date: May 12, 2014 8:00 PM EDT


NEW YORK (AP) - Paul Pierce called the Miami Heat a juggernaut. He insisted they are still the team to beat.

So yes, the Brooklyn Nets have plenty of respect for the two-time defending NBA champions - and no fear.

Pierce made that clear again Sunday, a day after the Nets' Game 3 rout that cut Miami's lead to 2-1 in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Brooklyn will try to even the series at home Monday night.

'You've got to have that type of mental ego against a juggernaut. You go against the best, a lot of series are won on fear factor, like, or non-belief. When you have that non-belief, then you have no chance,' Pierce said after practice.


'What I try to do in this locker room, or with my teammates, is just try to give them belief that we can beat this team. They're not unbeatable.'

The Heat had been in these playoffs until the Nets' 104-90 victory on Saturday night. Miami hadn't even faced a fourth-quarter deficit, but was out of the game long before then after Brooklyn dominated the third quarter to build a huge lead.

'The defeat was complete,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'It was both sides of the basketball.

'It was like trying to plug in holes in a leaking dam. There was so many things that were not in our favor really on both ends of the court.'

The Nets made 15 of 25 3-point attempts, outrebounded Miami 43-27, and limited LeBron James to two baskets over the final three quarters after he had 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting in the first.

Brooklyn swept the regular-season series, though none of the games was anywhere near as easy as Game 3. Yet the four victories gave the Nets a confidence against the Heat that some other opponents may not have.

'We just had a little success against them during the regular season. We played them well and we feel like we match up well with them,' Nets guard Deron Williams said. 'And if we're on top of our game, we're playing defense the way we're capable of playing, like we did the last game, we put ourselves in a good position to win.'

Pierce did his part after the Nets were routed in Game 1, asking coach Jason Kidd to switch up the defense so he could guard James. And after he and the Nets did such a good job of it over the final three quarters of Game 3, Pierce said the Nets wanted to show the Heat that they weren't scared of them.

'Why should it be a fear factor?' James said. 'It's just basketball. We're not trying to win a war here, it's just basketball. That's all it is. We're all grown men, who cares about who's fearing who?

'We've never been a team that talks. We don't get into that, and we've never been a bulletin board team. We just want to play the game the right way and we give ourselves a good chance to win if we play our type of basketball and last night we didn't do that.'

Miami had won its previous eight postseason games and followed every loss with a victory last year. To do that in this series, Spoelstra said the Heat would not only need better effort and urgency, but also more attention to the little details.

Pierce is expecting that, as well as in Game 5 back in Miami on Wednesday night. Even though the Heat didn't look it Saturday, he believes they are just as good as the recent versions that ended his seasons in Boston.

'Definitely. They're well-seasoned now. They know how to win,' Pierce said. 'They've won two championships, there's nothing they haven't been through. So the one thing you always hear, it's kind of a cliche, is never underestimate the heart of a champion, and you know that's what they have under their belts. So you know, they're the team to beat.'

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: Spurs (62-20) at Trail Blazers (54-28)

Date: May 12, 2014 10:30 PM EDT


PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - The intensity and focus that has the Spurs rolling 3-0 over Portland in the Western Conference semifinals can be traced to their Game 3 loss to Dallas in the first round.

Vince Carter hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer and the Mavericks went up 2-1. But San Antonio simply was not going to concede the opening round after last season's disappointing Game 7 loss to the Miami Heat for the NBA title.

'Down 2-1, Dallas really made it a series. They played great basketball - everybody was playing very well on that team and they made it hard on us,' Spurs guard Tony Parker said. 'In Game 7 you have to show up because if you don't the season's over. I think we learned from it and so far, we're playing good.'

Boris Diaw also pointed to the Dallas series, which San Antonio won with a 119-96 victory in the deciding Game 7.

'We had our back against the wall and we had to play good,' he said. 'We've been playing the same way since then - so probably a turning point for us.'

On Monday night the Spurs will try to dispatch the Trail Blazers in four games - and hopefully get some rest before the conference finals against the winner of the other semifinal between Oklahoma City and the Los Angeles Clippers.

'This is as well as I've seen them play all season,' Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts said. 'By Game 7 against Dallas, they came out of the gate and they haven't stopped since then.'

No team has ever lost a seven-game NBA playoff series after going up 3-0.

The Blazers were the last team to take a series to seven games after dropping the first three. Portland rebounded in the first round against Dallas in 2003 but ultimately lost the first-round series' deciding game.

Parker scored 29 points in San Antonio's 118-103 Game 3 victory on Saturday night. The Spurs had routed the Blazers 116-92 in the series opener after their grueling series against the Mavericks, then built a 20-point lead and won Game 2, 114-97.

Parker has scored 29 or more points in three of his last four playoff games. He had 20 points in the first half alone in Game 3 against Portland. In the 119-96 Game 7 victory over the Mavericks, he poured in 32.

The Spurs have managed to slow down Portland All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge, who averaged 29.8 points in the first round against the Houston Rockets.

The Blazers have been hurt by the loss of backup point guard Mo Williams to a groin injury. Williams has provided both energy and points off the bench all season in relief of Damian Lillard.

His absence was noticeable in Saturday night's loss, with Portland getting just six points from its bench.

'Monday is a new game, and we are confident we are capable of winning,' Lillard said. 'It is also about our pride. We do not want to come out here and get swept. We still believe we can win a game - we have to come out here and play like it.'

Portland advanced to the second round for the first time in 14 years by defeating the Rockets in six games, clinching the series with Lillard's amazing 3-pointer at the buzzer at home for a 99-98 victory in the deciding game.

The Spurs have a 3-2 series advantage over Portland in the playoffs, sweeping the previous meeting in the 1999 conference finals. The teams split the regular-season series 2-2.

'We'd love to close this thing out,' San Antonio's Tim Duncan said. 'We've had pretty decent control of it throughout and we want to finish it the right way and get some rest.'

 

[CNOTES]

Monday, May 12

Game Score Status Pick Amount


Miami - 8:00 PM ET Brooklyn +1.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY

Brooklyn - Over 187 500 DOUBLE PLAY


San Antonio - 10:30 PM ET San Antonio -4.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY

Portland - Under 210.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY

 

[CNOTES]

NBA

Dunkel

Washington at Indiana
The Wizards try to stay alive in the series as they head back to Indiana tonight to face a Pacers team 4-13 ATS in its last 17 home games. Washington is the pick (+5) according to Dunkel, which has the Pacers favored by only 2. Dunkel Pick: Washington (+5). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

TUESDAY, MAY 13

Game 733-734: Washington at Indiana (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 120.289; Indiana 122.040
Dunkel Line & Total: Indiana by 2; 177
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 5; 180 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (+5); Under

Game 735-736: LA Clippers at Oklahoma City (9:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Clippers 124.342; Oklahoma City 126.626
Dunkel Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 2 1/2; 217
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 5 1/2; 212 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Clippers (+5 1/2); Over




NBA
Long Sheet

Tuesday, May 13

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WASHINGTON (49 - 42) at INDIANA (63 - 30) - 5/13/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 94-76 ATS (+10.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) as an underdog this season.
WASHINGTON is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points this season.
WASHINGTON is 31-15 ATS (+14.5 Units) in road games this season.
WASHINGTON is 29-12 ATS (+15.8 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 57-42 ATS (+10.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 48-35 ATS (+9.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.
INDIANA is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.
INDIANA is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 8-6 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 11-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
9 of 14 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LA CLIPPERS (63 - 30) at OKLAHOMA CITY (65 - 28) - 5/13/2014, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all playoff games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 159-222 ATS (-85.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 114-155 ATS (-56.5 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 100-82 ATS (+9.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 86-71 ATS (+7.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 54-39 ATS (+11.1 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) in home games revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 32-23 ATS (+6.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-6 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 8-7 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
10 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, May 13

Washington blew 17-point halftime lead in Game 4 loss, after shooting 33% in Game 3; Beal/Nene were combined 21-61 from floor in losses at home. Home team won six of last nine Wizard-Pacer games- Indiana held Wiz to 79 ppg in winning last three games, after losing opener 102.96. Seven of last 11 Wizard games went over the total- six of seven series games this season stayed under the total. Hibbert had 59 points in last three games, after going scoreless in three of previous four-- rumor was that it was an off-court personal issue that had him in a funk.

Durant had eight turnovers in Game 4 loss, seemed hesitant to dribble if Paul was guarding him. Clippers were 20-74 from arc last three games, after going 15-29 in first game; they were down 22 in first half, 16 with 9:30 left before rallying to win Game 4 and tie series. OC's subs were +28 in Game 3, -41 last game, with LA's bench -31 Friday, +36 Sunday. Clippers are 3-5 vs OC this season. Over is 10-5 in last 15 series games; seven of last ten Thunder games went over total. Ibaka was 2-5 Sunday, after going 9-10 in Game 3.

Over is 41-25 in playoffs this season, 10-6 in this round.
Favorites are 23-43 in playoffs this season, 7-9 in this round.




NBA

Tuesday, May 13

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. INDIANA
Washington is 1-13 SU in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Indiana
Washington is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indiana's last 10 games
Indiana is 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games at home

9:30 PM
LA CLIPPERS vs. OKLAHOMA CITY
The total has gone OVER in 10 of the LA Clippers last 14 games
LA Clippers are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oklahoma City's last 7 games


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




NBA

Tuesday, May 13

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the Day: Clippers at Thunder
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Los Angeles Clippers at Oklahoma City Thunder (-5.5, 212.5)

The Los Angeles Clippers will be riding the momentum of an epic comeback while the host Oklahoma City Thunder will be looking to rebound from a colossal collapse when the teams square off in Tuesday’s Game 5. Oklahoma City jumped out to a 22-point lead in Game 4 and the Clippers overtook the Thunder with a frantic fourth-quarter push to knot the series at two games apiece. Darren Collison was the late-game hero as Los Angeles recorded the improbable 101-99 victory.

Oklahoma City standout Kevin Durant scored 40 points in Game 4 but was a nonfactor in the final minutes as the Clippers roared to the finish. “We’ve got to turn the page quickly,” Durant said afterward. “Can’t get too high off of wins and too low off of losses. Got to figure out what we did wrong and get better at it in Game 5.” Los Angeles trailed by 16 with nine minutes to play before the resounding comeback, displaying a trait that the franchise hasn’t always been associated with. “It shows our growth,” forward Matt Barnes said afterward. “I don’t know if we win a game like this last year, honestly. We just kept believing and kept talking to each other.”

TV: 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT

LINE HISTORY: The Thunder opened as 5.5-point favorites. The total opened at 212.5.

INJURY REPORT: Clippers F Hedo Turkoglu (Questionable, back).

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS: Collison and the term “playoff hero” found in the same sentence was an unexpected occurrence with there being a star point guard named Chris Paul on the team. But the backup who is with his fourth NBA team in five pro seasons excelled by scoring eight points in the final 2:58, including the go-ahead basket with 59.9 seconds to go. “You just got to love a guy like that who plays with so much heart and never gives up,” Paul said afterward in reference to Collison. The Clippers went to a small lineup in the final quarter to shake things up or otherwise Collison would have been on the bench in the final minutes.

ABOUT THE THUNDER: Oklahoma City’s disintegration was partly due to issues matching the smaller lineup but primarily due to defensive lapses that allowed Los Angeles to score 38 final-quarter points. The Thunder held the Clippers to 35.2 percent shooting over the first three quarters before Los Angeles was 14-of-22 over the final 12 minutes. “We’ve got to get back – gave up too many layups,” point guard Russell Westbrook bemoaned afterward. “They got too many easy baskets, especially when we had the lead.” Oklahoma City was also hurt by 16 turnovers, half of them by Durant.

TRENDS:

* Underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings.
* Over is 6-2 in the last eight meetings in Oklahoma City.
* Thunder are 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Clippers are 2-7 ATS in their last nine Conference Semifinals games.

CONSENSUS: 55 percent of wagers are on the Thunder -5.5.

 

[CNOTES]

NBA

Tuesday, May 13


Dogs on a hot streak in NBA playoffs

If you have been betting underdogs in the NBA playoffs the last four days chances are you're smiling.

Despite just going 1-1 against the spread Monday night, underdogs are 7-1 ATS the last four nights.

Tuesday night the Washington Wizards are 5-point dogs in Game 5 versus the Indiana Pacers and the Los Angeles Clippers are 5.5-point dogs in their Game 5 versus the Oklahoma City Thunder.


Wizards topping low totals all-season long

The Washington Wizards have scoffed at low totals during the regular season and the playoffs have been no different.

The Wizards have seen a total close at 181 or less five times this season, all against either the Chicago Bulls or Indiana Pacers. In those five contests the Wizards' have averaged 98.8 points per game and have topped triple-digits in three. For bettors, that means that the Wizards have gone over in every game this season when the total closed 181 or less.

The line for the Wiz and Pacers currently sit at 180.5.


Heat open as big home faves in Game 5

The Miami Heat can finish off their Eastern Conference semifinal series with the Brooklyn Nets on their home floor Wednesday, and sportsbooks have opened them as pretty decent sized favorite.

Both BetVictor and Pinnacle posted odds shortly after Miami's Game 4 victory and have the Heat as 7-point home faves.

Miami's 102-96 win in Game 4 pushed their record in the series to 3-1 against the spread.

 

[CNOTES]

NBA
Short Sheet

Tuesday, May 13

Washington Wizards at Indiana Pacers, 7:00 ET
Washington: 18-8 ATS as a road underdog of 6 points or less
Indiana: 1-10 ATS off 2 or more consecutive upset wins as a road underdog

LA Clippers at Oklahoma City Thunder, 9:30 ET
LA Clippers: 4-13 ATS in all playoff games
Oklahoma City: 14-6 ATS in home games after having won 2 of their last 3 games

 

[CNOTES]

Game 5 - Wizards at Pacers

May 13, 2014


Washington (49-42) at Indiana (63-30)

Eastern Conference Semifinals
Game 5 - Indiana leads series 3-1
Tip-off: Tuesday, 7:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line and Total: Indiana -5, Total: 181

The Pacers try to move onto the Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday when they return home to seek a fourth straight win over the reeling Wizards.

Washington has gone ice-cold since scoring 102 points in its Game 1 victory, averaging only 79.0 PPG on 41% FG and 27% threes over three straight defeats, with the latest loss coming by a 95-92 score in Sunday's Game 4. For the second straight game, Indiana started slow and finished strong. In those two games combined, the club has a weak 72 first-half points, but 108 points after the intermission.

Now the Wizards have to win on the road to extend this series, but they have played very well away from home this season, going 26-20 SU (31-15 ATS). This includes a stellar 12-1 ATS road mark when playing six or less games in a 14-day span. Although the Pacers are difficult to defeat at home (38-9 SU record), they are an even 23-23-1 ATS at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

In this particular series over the past three seasons, Indiana is 11-3 SU overall, but just 6-8 ATS. This includes a 6-1 SU mark (but 2-5 ATS record) when they have met at this particular venue. The Pacers are also 45-32 ATS (58%) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the past two seasons.

The Wizards continue to misfire in this series where they've made only 43.1% of their two-point FG tries, 35.3% threes and 63.9% free throws. But Washington's team defense has been excellent in the playoffs, where it has limited opponents to a mere 90.2 PPG on 42.6% FG. SG Bradley Beal (19.5 PPG, 5.3 APG, 5.0 APG, 2.8 SPG in series) has had a great series, and led the team with 20 points (7-of-14 FG) in Sunday's loss. Beal scored 21.0 PPG on 15-of-33 FG (46%) in the first two games in Indiana, and needs to provide another 20+ points for his struggling offense.

Backcourt mate PG John Wall (11.5 PPG, 7.5 APG, 1.3 BPG in series) did a great job of controlling the offense in the two games at Indiana with 17 assists and only two turnovers in the first two games, but he has dished out only 13 assists with 12 turnovers in the past two contests. He has also shot terribly all series at 31% FG and 1-of-11 threes. If Wall can't find his offense fast, this series will end on Tuesday night. SF Trevor Ariza (14.0 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 2.3 SPG in series) had another strong showing in Game 4 with 16 points, nine boards and three steals, but posted a game-worst rating of minus-22.

The rest of Washington's frontcourt has underachieved badly in the past two defeats, as C Marcin Gortat (9.8 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 1.0 BPG in series) and PF Nene Hilario (11.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 1.8 BPG in series) combined for only 24 points (11-of-38 FG, 29%) and 19 rebounds, which was a huge drop-off from their 35 points (17-of-29 FG, 59%) and 16 boards in Game 2 alone. The Wizards finally got strong production from their bench in Game 4 as C Al Harrington (6.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.5 SPG in series) compiled 11 points, six rebounds and three steals, PF Drew Gooden (7.0 PPG, 6.8 RPG in series) chipped in 10 points four rebounds and three blocks, and PG Andre Miller (4.5 PPG in series) had seven points, four assists and a game-high-tying +18 rating.

Indiana's offense wasn't very effective during the regular season (96.7 PPG on 44.9% FG and 35.7% threes), and it has been even worse in this series with 90.5 PPG on 43.0% FG, but has saved itself with great long-range shooting (43.9% threes). The defense continues to carry the club to the brink of the conference finals by holding opponents to a meager 89.6 PPG on 39.6% FG during the playoffs.

SF Paul George (22.8 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 3.3 APG, 2.0 SPG in series) had made just 33% FG and 25% threes in the first three games versus the Wizards, but he exploded in Game 4 with 39 points on 12-of-20 FG (7-of-10 threes), 12 rebounds and two steals. C Roy Hibbert (14.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.3 BPG in series) began this conference semifinals with a Game 1 dud (0 points, 0 rebounds, minus-17 rating), but has been outstanding in the past three victories with 19.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 2.3 BPG and +47 rating.

PF David West (12.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 4.0 APG in series) continues to give his team consistent production in all areas, and has posted a stellar +63 rating in this series, including a +15 on Sunday when he scored 14 points with a game-high eight assists, but only three rebounds, for the second straight contests.

PG George Hill (14.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.3 APG in series) played very well in Game 4 with 15 points (6-of-12 FG), four assists and only one turnover while posting a team-best +18 rating. SG Lance Stephenson (10.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 4.5 APG in series) had another poor shooting night on Wednesday (3-of-8 FG), and is now 14-of-46 FG (30%) in this series. But he again contributed in other areas with nine rebounds, six assists and a +15 rating despite six turnovers. Indiana's bench was a non-factor in Game 4 with just two points (1-of-9 FG), five turnovers and a minus-49 rating in a combined 33 minutes of action.

 

[CNOTES]

2014 Playoff Results

May 13, 2014


Betting Results

Second Round
Wager Favorites-Underdogs Home-Away
Straight Up 9-7 9-7
Against the Spread 7-9 7-9
Total
Over-Under 10-6


Eastern Conference Semifinals

(E1) Indiana vs. (E5) Washington
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Washington (+4, +155) at Indiana 102-96 Underdog Over (184)
2 Washington at Indiana (-4.5) 86-82 Underdog Under (187)
3 Indiana (+5, +180) at Washington 85-63 Underdog Under (183.5)
4 Indiana (+3.5, +145) at Washington 95-92 Underdog Over (179.5)
5 Washington at Indiana - - -
6 Indiana at Washington - - -
7 Washington at Indiana - - -


(E2) Miami vs. (E6) Brooklyn
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Brooklyn at Miami (-8) 107-86 Favorite Over (192)
2 Brooklyn at Miami (-6.5) 94-82 Favorite Under (192)
3 Miami at Brooklyn (+1, +100) 104-90 Underdog Over (188)
4 Miami (-2) at Brooklyn 102-96 Favorite Over (186.5)
5 Brooklyn at Miami - - -
6 Miami at Brooklyn - - -
7 Brooklyn at Miami - - -



Western Conference Semifinals

(W2) Oklahoma City vs. (W3) L.A. Clippers
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Los Angeles (+5.5, +200) at Oklahoma City 122-105 Underdog Over (213.5)
2 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City (-5) 112-101 Favorite Under (215)
3 Oklahoma City (+4.5, +165) at Los Angeles 118-112 Underdog Over (215)
4 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles (-5) 101-99 Underdog Under (214)
5 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -
6 Oklahoma City at Los Angeles - - -
7 Los Angeles at Oklahoma City - - -


(W1) San Antonio vs. (W5) Portland
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 116-92 Favorite Over (207)
2 Portland at San Antonio (-6.5) 114-97 Favorite Over (208.5)
3 San Antonio (PK, -110) at Portland 118-103 Favorite Over (208)
4 San Antonio at Portland (+4.5, +170) 103-92 Underdog Under (211)
5 Portland at San Antonio - - -
6 San Antonio at Portland - - -
7 Portland at San Antonio - - -

 

[CNOTES]

Tuesday, May 13

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Washington - 7:00 PM ET Washington +5.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY

Indiana - Over 181 500 TRIPLE PLAY

L.A. Clippers - 9:30 PM ET L.A. Clippers +5.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY

Oklahoma City - Over 213 500 DOUBLE PLAY