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Preview: Grizzlies (29-20) at Knicks (23-29)

Date: February 05, 2016 7:30 PM EDT

Not long ago Marc Gasol was slumping, Jeff Green was an afterthought off the bench and the Memphis Grizzlies were the worst offensive team in the Western Conference.

Now Gasol and Green are thriving with Memphis in the midst of a historic scoring run.

The reeling New York Knicks had no answer for Gasol last month and will face him Friday night after a difficult loss in the first of back-to-back games. They're looking to avoid a sixth straight loss in this series and deny the visiting Grizzlies their longest winning streak in a year.

Memphis was averaging a West-low 95.9 points per game before averaging 105.8 while scoring at least 100 in regulation over nine straight games for the first time in its history.

Green was scoring 10.4 per game heading into that stretch after totaling seven points on 2-of-13 shooting over a two-game span. He's since averaged 19.3 while hitting 15 of 34 from 3-point range in the last nine and 26.0 on 62.9 percent shooting over his past four.

Green led the way with 24 points, former Knick Zach Randolph had 22 and 12 rebounds and Mike Conley scored 17 with 10 assists in Monday's 110-95 win at New Orleans.

Memphis shot a season-high 60.6 percent en route to its 10th win in 12 games. It's looking to win five in a row for the first time since an eight-game run from Jan. 21-Feb. 4, 2015.

'We have a lot of guys really contributing to what we're doing,' guard Vince Carter said. 'Guys are just playing hard and letting it all hang out for the good of the team.'

Gasol, who had 14 points, averaged just 9.5 with a 26.3 field-goal percentage over a four-game stretch before scoring 20.4 on 50.6 percent in his past 10.

The two-time All-Star center was nearly unstoppable against the Knicks on Jan. 16, finishing with 37 points, eight rebounds and three blocks in a 103-95 home win.

Memphis (29-20) has won five in a row during its longest winning streak in this series, which includes two victories at Madison Square Garden by a combined 29 points. Green has averaged 21.3 points in his last four meetings dating to his time with Boston.

Conley, who did not play in the January win due to a sore left Achilles, has totaled 16 points on 7-of-28 shooting in his last two games at MSG.

The Grizzlies have a chance to extend their surge against a New York team that has allowed 107.9 points over its last 13 games. The Knicks (23-29) rallied from 27 points down and took the lead with 2:14 left Thursday before running out of gas in a 111-105 loss at Detroit.

'We dug ourselves the kind of hole where everything has to go right for you to have a chance," coach Derek Fisher said.

Robin Lopez set season highs with 26 points and 16 boards in New York's third straight defeat and seventh in eight games. Arron Afflalo had 24 points and Carmelo Anthony, who missed the first meeting with Memphis, added 19, 11 rebounds and eight assists but missed 14 of 18 shots.

Matt Barnes is questionable for the Grizzlies after sitting Monday due to a pulled hamstring. He stayed away from Fisher last month after the NBA had suspended Barnes for two games for his role in a physical altercation and threatening the coach in October.
 
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Preview: Kings (21-28) at Nets (12-38)

Date: February 05, 2016 7:30 PM EDT

DeMarcus Cousins' return wasn't enough to stop the Sacramento Kings' recent struggles or their season-long defensive issues.

The Brooklyn Nets could provide a remedy for both when the slumping Kings begin an important eastern trip Friday night.

A season-high five-game winning streak vaulted Sacramento (21-28) into eighth place in the Western Conference on Jan. 24, but it's since dropped to 10th due to a 1-5 stretch and surges from Portland and Utah. Three of those losses occurred on the road, increasing the significance of a four-game trek where the Kings will face the East's two worst teams in Brooklyn (12-38) and Philadelphia.

Neither Cousins nor the NBA's third-highest scoring offense can be blamed for the struggles, which can be pointed to a defense that's surrendering 114.5 points per game over those six contests. That's been an ongoing problem for a team that's allowed 108.1 points per game and 510 3-pointers, both last in the league.

Sacramento's defensive woes proved costly again Wednesday, when Chicago went 11 of 21 from 3-point range to record a 107-102 win without All-Star Jimmy Butler. Cousins returned from a one-game absence due to a sprained left ankle to amass 30 points and 11 rebounds, but the Kings couldn't overcome an early 13-point deficit.

'I've never had this many games on the home court come out flat,' coach George Karl said. 'You run out of energy. It's not a good formula for success.'

Cousins, averaging a league-high 31.4 points and 12.8 rebounds in 16 games since Jan. 2, could be primed for another big night against the Nets, among his favorite opponents. The All-Star center is averaging 30.0 points and 15.0 rebounds over the last four meetings and had 40 and 13 in a 111-109 home win Nov. 13, supporting Rajon Rondo's 23-point, 14-assist, 10-rebound triple-double.

Brooklyn has gone farther backward since that matchup, having lost five straight and 10 of 11 following Wednesday's 114-100 defeat to Indiana for its 16th loss in its last 18 at Barclays Center.

The Nets' glaring lack of depth was even more evident against the Pacers, who finished with a 58-16 advantage in bench points.

"It's the same old story. We've got to find some other guys to join the fray," said interim coach Tony Brown, who fell to 2-11 since replacing the fired Lionel Hollins on Jan. 10. "Our starters played relatively big minutes but we just didn't have any rhythm coming off our bench."

The Kings have received considerably better production from their reserves, as Darren Collison is averaging 17.7 points while shooting 55.6 percent over a three-game stretch and Omri Casspi ranks among the league leaders with a 44.0 percentage on 3s.

Sacramento also figures to have an advantage inside, as it's second in the NBA in points in the paint (48.9 per game) and Brooklyn is allowing an average of 49.2 during Brown's tenure.

The Nets have had the greater recent success in the series, however, having won six of eight meetings. The Kings are 0-3 at Barclays Center and have lost six straight on the road to the Nets since a 106-101 victory in New Jersey on Dec. 18, 2007.
 
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Preview: Bucks (20-31) at Jazz (23-25)

Date: February 05, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

The Utah Jazz are enjoying their longest win streak of the season with a fairly straightforward obstacle left on what has been a successful six-game homestand.

The Jazz have won 13 straight at home over the Milwaukee Bucks entering Friday night's matchup of teams headed in opposite directions.

Utah (23-25) fell 95-92 to Detroit to open this homestand Jan. 25 before winning the next four for its longest run since a six-game streak in March. The Jazz are battling Houston and Portland for the Western Conference's final two postseason berths.

"We're fighting for a playoff spot," forward Derrick Favors said. "We've got another good team coming in Friday so we've just got to be ready to play."

Favors may not have known who was on the schedule next since Milwaukee (20-31) has lost a season-high four straight and five in a row on the road after dropping to 0-2 on this three-game trip following Tuesday's 107-95 defeat to Portland.

The Bucks have not won at Utah since a 119-112 overtime victory in the 2001-02 opener for both clubs. They haven't scored more than 95 points in the losing streak at Salt Lake City and have shot 37.1 percent in the last five visits while failing to crack the 90-point mark.

That could be difficult to achieve Friday since the Jazz are 16-0 when holding opponents under 90 points and play at the league's slowest tempo with just over 93 possessions per 48 minutes.

Utah has held three teams to 90 or fewer in this win streak, capped by Wednesday's 85-81 victory in which it limited Denver to 37.1 percent shooting.

"That was one of the things we talked about, making sure teams go up against our half-court defense," forward Gordon Hayward said. "We wanted to get three (players) back and I thought for the most part we did that."

Milwaukee is one of the top shooting teams in the league at 46.1 percent. The issue is that high percentage is a result of shots from inside the 3-point line, and the Bucks' average of 15.7 3-point attempts is the second-lowest in the league - a major problem in this era with 3-point shooting being so critical.

Further proving that point is that the Bucks average 18.5 points off turnovers for one of the league's best marks and an NBA-best 49.3 points in the paint. Khris Middleton is the only Bucks player who ranks in the top 50 among qualifying players in 3-point attempts per game, and he's slumping lately by shooting 29.6 percent overall during the losing streak.

Utah limits foes to 21.4 3-point attempts per game for one of the NBA's best marks.

Middleton scored 21 and Giannis Antetokounmpo added 19 on Tuesday for the Bucks, who trailed most of the night and were outscored 46-38 in the paint.

"We got it to five or we got it to six and we just couldn't get a stop, we gave up a wide-open 3 or we gave up an offensive rebound where it was a dunk or a backdoor layup," coach Jason Kidd said. "We're close, we just have to make some plays defensively."
 
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Preview: Bulls (27-21) at Nuggets (19-31)

Date: February 05, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Coach Fred Hoiberg is hopeful his inconsistent Chicago Bulls have finally found something to build on, though that will be difficult if two of his biggest stars are held out.

With Jimmy Butler and Pau Gasol questionable Friday night, the Bulls seek their first back-to-back wins in a month and their second road victory over the Denver Nuggets in 16 years.

Butler, an All-Star for the second straight season, missed his first game Wednesday due to left knee soreness. The shooting guard, averaging a team-high 22.4 points, said he was feeling better Thursday and will test his knee during the morning shootaround.

"I have to think big picture," Butler told the team's official website. "Got to do what's right for your body. I have to be smart; just being cautious. I think I'll be fine."

Otherwise, the Bulls may need another big game from E'Twaun Moore after he stepped up with a career-high 24 points in Wednesday's 107-102 win at Sacramento. The journeyman has averaged 12.5 points since moving into the starting lineup for the first four on this seven-game trip.

Derrick Rose contributed 21 points and nine assists but also committed seven turnovers as Chicago (27-21) snapped a two-game losing streak to move past a 4-9 stretch.

After posting a 98.7 offensive rating over their previous nine games, the Bulls played more at the pace Hoiberg has been longing for with 104 possessions and a 102.6 rating Wednesday. They also made 11 for 21 from 3-point range and finished with 26 assists.

"The ball was swinging side to side, we were getting it in the right guys' hands, shifted the defense and good things happened and hopefully we'll carry this over," Hoiberg said.

Gasol, though, suffered a left hand sprain Wednesday but was able to finish the contest with 16 points and 13 rebounds. It would be a particularly big loss since he's averaged 23.7 points in his last six meetings with Denver dating to his time with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Chicago, already missing Mike Dunleavy, Nikola Mirotic and Joakim Noah, has won the past two games against the Nuggets but has dropped the last eight road matchups. The club has lost 14 of its past 15 trips to Denver, with its only victory coming in February 2006.

The Nuggets (19-31) have allowed an average of 89 points in their last two games after giving up 111.4 in their previous eight. However, they shot just 37.1 percent in an 85-81 loss at Utah on Wednesday after averaging 108.9 points on 46.3 percent shooting over their prior nine.

"We have a hard time when we're forced to play (slow)," coach Mike Malone said. "That's just the reality."

Danilo Gallinari had 24 points and is averaging 22.9 over his past 17 games. Nikola Jokic hopes to recover after finishing with eight on 3-of-9 shooting while dealing with a strained shoulder. He averaged 19.3 and 11.7 rebounds in his prior three games.

The Nuggets were held to 38.7 percent shooting and outrebounded 62-49 in a 99-90 loss at Chicago on Dec. 2. Gasol led the Bulls with a season-high 26 points, 19 rebounds and four blocks, though Butler and Rose totaled 31 points on 8-of-33 shooting.
 
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Preview: Spurs (41-8) at Mavericks (28-24)

Date: February 05, 2016 9:30 PM EDT

The only teams to defeat the San Antonio Spurs in 2016 are the conference leaders.

Almost all the good teams are beating the Dallas Mavericks this year.

The Spurs are among them, and they'll look to blow out their Southwest Division rival for the second time in three weeks behind a surging LaMarcus Aldridge on Friday night in Dallas.

San Antonio (41-8) can match the best 50-game start in franchise history, set in 2010-2011, after notching the best home start in Western Conference history at 27-0 with Wednesday's 110-97 win over New Orleans.

The Spurs' only losses in 18 games since Christmas came Jan. 25 to league-best Golden State and five days later to East-leading Cleveland.

Dallas (28-24) did take the Cavaliers to overtime in a loss Jan. 12 and is one of four teams to knock off the Warriors. However, since beating Golden State without Stephen Curry on Dec. 30, the Mavericks are 9-11, which includes a 2-9 record against teams above .500.

One of those losses came in San Antonio and was their most lopsided of the season, 112-83 on Jan. 17.

'They're a great team. They play hard every single possession," Mavs guard Wesley Matthews said that night. "Everybody that checks into the game plays hard.'

Manu Ginobili won't be checking in for at least the next month. He underwent surgery for a testicle injury suffered Wednesday when he took a knee to an unintentional knee to the groin from Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson.

Tim Duncan could miss a sixth straight game due to a sore knee, but the Spurs haven't missed him this week because of Aldridge's play at both ends.

The All-Star forward set a season high with 28 points against Orlando on Monday, then broke it Wednesday with 36. Aldridge also blocked eight shots in those games and helped limit Pelicans star Anthony Davis to three points in the fourth quarter.

'LaMarcus is feeling more and more comfortable all the time as the season progresses,' coach Gregg Popovich said.

As the prized offseason acquisition has gotten more used to his new teammates, Aldridge has averaged 19.2 points on 55.7 percent shooting in his last 14 games. His averages were at 15.4 points and 47.1 percent through his first 31.

'The ball has been going in,' said Aldridge, shooting 64.9 percent in the last four games. 'I'm taking the shots and making them. Playing more confident and more like myself and I think that the team has fed off that energy.'

Aldridge had a game-high 23 points on 9-of-15 shooting against the Mavs last month while outplaying Dirk Nowitzki, who shot 2 of 10 for four points. It matched the lowest-scoring game of Nowitzki's career when playing at least 20 minutes.

The NBA's sixth all-time leading scorer has averaged 10.4 points on 35.1 percent shooting in the last five meetings. The Mavericks have lost the last three, but those were all in San Antonio. The Spurs have lost the last two in Dallas, their only defeats in the past 15 regular-season matchups.

The Mavs are coming off back-to-back losses to the Southeast Division's top teams, 112-97 in Atlanta on Monday and 93-90 to Miami on Wednesday despite Nowitzki's 28 points.

Matthews continues to struggle, averaging 7.8 points in the past six games while going 7 for 34 on 3-point tries.

Dallas' other starting guard, Deron Williams, could miss a second consecutive game with a hip injury. Backup Devin Harris is likely to sit out a seventh straight with a sprained toe.

Those injuries and struggles of the backcourt have played a role in the Mavs averaging 93.8 points in regulation over their past 13 games, though Spurs veteran Tony Parker still considers them to be dangerous offensively.

"They create a lot of different matchup problems with Dirk and stuff like that. They go small," he said. "... We just have to make sure we play good defense and control the basketball."
 
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Friday's Tip Sheet
By Kevin Rogers

Pacers at Hawks – 7:05 PM EST

Two teams coming off blowout road wins on Wednesday meet up at Philips Arena as Atlanta looks to break through for the first time in three meetings against Indiana. The Pacers (26-23 SU, 25-23-1 ATS) have knocked off the Hawks twice at home this season, including a 111-92 rout as three-point favorites last week. Atlanta (29-22 SU, 25-25-1 ATS) captured both home matchups last season, but the Hawks were listed as 10 ½-point chalk each time.

The Hawks dominated the 76ers for the third time this season in Wednesday’s 124-86 whipping to easily cash as 7 ½-point road favorites. Atlanta has won two straight since a putrid 1-6 run to close out January, as Mike Budenholzer’s club holds a one-half game advantage over Miami heading into Friday’s action. The Pacers have won three of four, including Wednesday’s 14-point triumph at Brooklyn, but own a dreadful 2-6 ATS mark in the last eight opportunities as a road underdog.

Celtics at Cavaliers – 7:35 PM EST

Cleveland swept Boston in the opening round of last year’s playoffs, while continuing that domination in the first matchup this season at TD Garden with an 89-77 victory in December. The Cavaliers (35-13 SU, 21-24-3 ATS) saw their five-game winning streak come to an end in Wednesday’s 106-97 setback at Charlotte as eight-point favorites. Tyronn Lue’s team cashed the ‘over’ for the fourth straight contest, while the Cavs have topped the 114-point mark in four of the past five home games.

Boston (29-22 SU, 28-22-1 ATS) has compiled an impressive 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS the last eight contests, while limiting five of their opponents to 95 points or less in this span. The Celtics led the Pistons from wire-to-wire in Wednesday’s 102-95 victory to cash as four-point favorites, while picking up its third straight win and cover against a Central division foe. Boston is listed as an underdog of 6 ½ points or higher for just the third time this season, losing in both tries at San Antonio and Chicago, but managed a cover against the Spurs in a three-point defeat as 8 ½-point ‘dogs in December.

Grizzlies at Knicks – 7:35 PM EST

January was a successful month for Memphis (29-20 SU, 24-24-1 ATS), who won 10 of 14 games, while starting February with a 110-95 rout of New Orleans. The Grizzlies have covered four straight games, the longest ATS hot streak for Dave Joerger’s team this season. Memphis is playing at a higher-tempo than in the past by eclipsing the 100-point mark in nine straight games, while cashing the ‘over’ in 10 of the past 11 contests. The Grizzlies go for the season sweep of the Knicks after beating New York at FedEx Forum last month, 103-95 as 5 ½-point favorites.

The Knicks (23-29 SU, 29-23 ATS) erased a 27-point deficit on Thursday at Detroit to take the lead in the final minutes, but the Pistons grabbed the home victory, 111-105. New York hasn’t fared well with no rest by posting a 4-7 SU mark, although Derek Fisher’s club has cashed in six of 11 opportunities on the second of a back-to-back. The Knicks have gone backwards of late by dropping six of their last seven games, which includes a 1-4 SU and 2-3 ATS mark at home in the past five contests at Madison Square Garden.

Bulls at Nuggets – 9:05 PM EST

Chicago (27-21 SU, 19-29 ATS) is making the fifth stop on its seven-game road swing on Friday at Denver, trying to capitalize off of Wednesday’s 107-102 win at Sacramento as four-point underdogs. Leading scorer Jimmy Butler sat out with an injured left knee and hopes to return on Friday as the Bulls have yet to win consecutive road games this season. In fact, Fred Hoiberg’s squad owns a dismal 2-8 SU/ATS record coming off an away victory, while not scoring 100 points in consecutive games since mid-January.

Don’t look now, but Denver (19-31 SU, 27-21-2 ATS) continues to cash tickets at a rapid pace by compiling an 11-2 ATS mark the last 13 games. The Nuggets covered as eight-point underdogs in Wednesday’s 85-81 setback at Utah, the fifth straight ATS win in the ‘dog role. Mike Malone’s team owns an impressive 7-2 ATS mark in the last nine games at the Pepsi Center, while picking up victories over Eastern Conference foes Toronto, Detroit, and Indiana in this stretch.

Spurs at Mavericks – 9:35 PM EST

The Southwest division race is a runaway as San Antonio (41-8 SU, 32-17 ATS) attempts to win its 42nd game in 50 tries at Dallas. The Spurs picked up their 27th home victory on Wednesday in a 13-point triumph over New Orleans, but San Antonio is down two of its veterans with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili sidelined with injuries. San Antonio has picked up a pair of wins against its Lone Star State rival at home this season, while limiting Dallas to 83 points in each victory.

The Mavericks (28-24 SU, 29-22-1 ATS) start a tough back-to-back set against San Antonio and Memphis the next two days, while trying to rebound from Wednesday’s home defeat to Miami. Point guard Deron Williams sat out the loss to the Heat with a hip contusion, but is expected back in the lineup on Friday. Dallas has seen success in the home underdog role by compiling a 5-2 ATS mark, although the Mavericks have lost close games in the last month to the Thunder and Cavaliers at home.
 
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NBA Odds: Friday, February 5, 2016 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

I'm not sure if you still care about the Dunk Contest on All-Star Weekend considering no superstars compete any longer, but the field for the Feb. 12 event in Toronto has been released. And unfortunately it doesn't include Minnesota's Andrew Wiggins, who is one of the best dunkers in the NBA and from Toronto. He decided to pass, saying that he "retired" from dunk contests after losing the one in the McDonald's All-American game in high school. That contest was won by former University of Florida player Chris Walker, a former top recruit who never lived up to the billing and is now in the D-League. Competing this year are Minnesota's Zach LaVine, who was terrific in winning last year's event, Detroit's Andre Drummond, Orlando's Aaron Gordon and the least-known among the group, Denver's Will Barton. LaVine certainly will be favored.


Pacers at Hawks (-4, 204.5)

This is the first of an ESPN doubleheader and should have live betting at sportsbooks. Indiana won in Brooklyn 114-100 on Wednesday behind 27 points from C.J. Miles. Indiana's bench outscored Brooklyn's by 42 points. The Pacers were again without center Ian Mahinmi but he's very close and it could be here. Atlanta won a second straight Wednesday, trashing the 76ers 124-86 for the third time this season. All 13 players scored and eight finished in double figures for Atlanta. Indiana has lost 14 of its past 15 regular-season games in Atlanta and both last season were by double digits.

Key trends: Indiana is 5-2 against the spread in the past seven meetings. The "over/under" is 4-1 in the past five.

Early lean: Hawks and over.

Heat at Hornets (TBA)

Miami won in Dallas in the second of a back-to-back on Wednesday, 93-90. Dwyane Wade was just 1-for-11 for two points in the first half but had 16 after the break. Hassan Whiteside had 10 points, nine rebounds and five blocks after missing six games with a left hip injury. Charlotte won a second in a row Wednesday, upsetting visiting Cleveland 106-97. The Hornets did so without starting point guard Kemba Walker, who had a sore knee. But Nic Batum, Cody Zeller and Jeremy Lamb were all back in the lineup. These teams have split two meetings, each winning by double digits at home. Charlotte has won three straight at home vs. Miami.

Key trends: The Heat are 7-2 ATS in the past nine in Charlotte. The over is 9-4 in the past 13 meetings.

Early lean: Wait on Kemba.

Clippers at Magic (+4, 205.5)

Los Angeles was stunned at home by Minnesota 108-102 on Wednesday to end a four-game winning streak. The Clips had won 14 straight in the series. DeAndre Jordan had 18 points and 15 rebounds but did tweak his back at the end of the game. He probably will be fine but certainly monitor that, especially after a long flight. Orlando lost 117-114 in Oklahoma City on Wednesday on a Thunder 3-pointer with a half-second left. Victor Oladipo scored 37 points -- one off his career high -- to lead Orlando, which has lost 14 of its last 16 games. Orlando lost 103-101 in Los Angeles on Dec. 5. Jamal Crawford scored 16 of his game-high 32 points during the fourth quarter as the Clippers overcame a 12-point hole in that quarter. Blake Griffin had 28 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists but is of course out now.

Key trends: The Clippers are 3-0-1 ATS in the past four meetings. The under is 5-1 in the past six.

Early lean: Clippers (unless Jordan sits) and under.

76ers at Wizards (-11, 211.5)

Somehow the first meeting of the season between these teams. Philadelphia lost its third straight on Wednesday, 124-86 at home to Atlanta. It was the Sixers' second-worst loss of the year, and they have now dropped 12 games by at least 20. Washington was beaten at home by Golden State on Wednesday, 134-121. John Wall had a season-high 41 points in the loss. Coach Randy Wittman sat out a second straight game following his brother's death but should return here.

Key trends: The favorite is 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The under is 5-2 in the past seven in Washington.

Early lean: Philly (Wizards will be flat from track meet with Warriors) and under.

Kings at Nets (+4, 210.5)

Sacramento lost 107-102 at home to Chicago on Wednesday. DeMarcus Cousins was questionable but played and had 30 points and 11 rebounds. Rajon Rondo also was questionable and played. Brooklyn dropped a fifth straight on Wednesday, 114-100 at home to Indiana. Thaddeus Young posted his 22nd double-double for the Nets, which is a new single-season career-high for him. He likely will be traded. Sacramento beat visiting Brooklyn 111-109 on Nov. 13. Cousins had 40 points and 13 rebounds and Rondo a triple-double with 23 points, 14 assists and 10 rebounds. The Kings have lost six straight at the Nets, however.

Key trends: The Kings are 0-6 ATS in the past six in Brooklyn. The over is 6-1 in Brooklyn's past seven overall.

Early lean: Nets and over.

Celtics at Cavaliers (-7, 211)

Boston won a second in a row on Wednesday, 102-95 vs. Detroit. Isaiah Thomas had 17 points and seven assists. Jae Crowder sprained his ankle and it looked bad on the court but Crowder said it wasn't serious. Consider him questionable here, however. Cleveland's five-game winning streak ended with a nine-point loss in Charlotte on Wednesday. LeBron James personally had won 21 straight vs. the Hornets. He had 23 points. Backup guard Matthew Dellavedova was inactive with a sore left hamstring. Cleveland won the first meeting 89-77 in Boston on Dec. 15. The Celtics led by six at halftime but had only 31 second-half points.

Key trends: The Celtics are 1-4 ATS in the past five meetings. The under is 4-0 in the previous four.

Early lean: Cavs and under.

Grizzlies at Knicks (+3, 195.5)

Memphis won a fourth consecutive Monday, 110-95 in New Orleans. Zach Randolph had 22 points and 12 rebounds. Jeff Green had 24 points for Memphis, which closed the game on a 26-9 run. Grizz forward Matt Barnes was out with a minor hamstring injury. New York was in Detroit on Thursday. Memphis won at home vs. the Knicks 103-95 on Jan. 16. Marc Gasol scored 37 points while setting career highs for field goal makes (15) and attempts (29). It was Memphis' fifth straight win in the series. Carmelo Anthony was out.

Key trends: The Grizzlies are 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The over is 4-1 in the past five in New York.

Early lean: Grizzlies and over.

Bulls at Nuggets (TBA)

Chicago ended a two-game skid with a five-point victory in Sacramento on Wednesday despite playing without leading scorer Jimmy Butler. He had a sore knee, but it's not serious. Seldom-used E'Twaun Moore scored a career-high 24 points while starting in place of Butler. Derrick Rose had 21 points and nine assists. Denver lost 85-81 at Utah on Wednesday. Nikola Jokic played through a shoulder strain but had only eight points and six rebounds. Chicago won at home vs. Denver 99-90 on Dec. 2. But the Nuggets have won eight straight at home in the series.

Key trends: The Bulls are 1-7 ATS in the past eight in Denver. The over is 6-2 in the past eight meetings overall.

Early lean: Wait on Butler.

Bucks at Jazz (-7, 194)

Milwaukee dropped a fourth straight Tuesday, 107-95 in Portland. Khris Middleton had 21 points and eight rebounds for the Bucks. This concludes a three-game trip out West for them. Utah won a fourth in a row on Wednesday, 85-81 over Denver. The Jazz are 10-0 when holding opponents under 90 points. This concludes a six-game homestand. First meeting of season. Utah has won 13 in a row at home vs. the Bucks.

Key trends: The home team is 13-3 ATS in the past 16 meetings. The under is 4-0 in the past four in Utah.

Early lean: Under, under, under!

Spurs at Mavericks (+7, 199.5)

Second ESPN game. San Antonio won its second straight on Wednesday, 110-97 over New Orleans to stay unbeaten at home. LaMarcus Aldridge had a season-high 36 points. Tim Duncan missed his fifth straight game with a sore right knee and isn't expected here. Neither likely is Manu Ginobili, who left Wednesday's game with a groin injury. Dallas lost a second straight Wednesday, 93-90 at home to Miami. The Mavs played without point guard Deron Williams, and he's not going to play here. San Antonio is 2-0 vs. Dallas this season, but those were both at home. The Spurs have dropped their past two in Dallas.

Key trends: The Spurs are 1-4 ATS in the past five meetings in Dallas. The under is 6-0 in the past six meetings overall.

Early lean: Mavericks and under.
 
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NCAAB

Notes for Friday's games..........

Central Michigan outscored Akron 25-5 on foul line in 92-81 win over Zips at home Jan 12. Akron couldn't guard CMU on perimeter, in their first loss in last nine games with Chippewas. CMU lost last seven trips to Akron. Zips are 4-0 art home in MAC, with three wins by 9+ points; they won last five games. CMU won last four games, all by 12+; they're 2-2 on MAAC road. MAC home favorites of 6 or less points are 15-8.

Yale-Columbia are tied atop Ivy League; with no conference tournament, these games are huge. Teams split last six series games; Lions won here LY for first time in last seven visits- last three series games were won by 6 or less points. Yale is 11-2 vs teams outside top 100, losing to Albany, Illinois; four of their top five guys are seniors. Columbia won 10 of its last 11 games. Ivy League home favorites are 1-5 vs spread.

Home side won last four Dartmouth-Penn games; Big Green lost its last two visits to Palestra by 9-7 points- they're 2-10 in last 12 visits here. Dartmouth got swept at home LW by Columbia/Cornall, allowing 77 in both games; they're 5-3 vs teams ranked outside top 200, but turn ball over 20.6% of time (#304). Quakers lost last four games, giving up 85 ppg in losing pair of Ivy League road games last weekend. .

Brown won four of last five games with Cornell; Big Red lost last couple visits here, by 1-12 points. Bruins lost five of last six D-I games, losing two of last three home games, with losses by 24 points each- they won last game, vs Penn. Cornell has good freshman guard in Morgan; they're 2-2 in Ivy after sweeping Harvard/Dartmouth trip last week. Ivy League home underdogs are 2-2 against the spread.

Harvard won six of last seven games with Princeton, winning last two in Jadwin Gym 59-47/75-72. Crimson is already three games out in Ivy and Columbia/Yale play tonight, so loss here puts them four games behind. Harvard lost last three games; they're shooting 56.8% on foul line, worst in country. Princeton is 10-0 vs teams outside top 100; worst team they lost to is #71 Yale- they're not a great offensive rebounding team. .

Monmouth is 14-2 in its last 16 games, winning last four- they won last game 93-87 at Siena Monday, a tough game- they won 86-74 at Fairfield Jan 11, after trailing by 7 at half; the Hawks were 12-24 on arc, were +8 in turnovers. Stags won three of last four games. Monmouth is 4-1 in its MAAC games with Fairfield, winning by 3-7 in two games played here. MAAC double digit home favorites are 2-5 against the spread.

Canisius lost last three games, allowing 87.3 ppg; Griffins lost three of last four games with Iona, but they're 4-2 in last six series games played here. Gaels won three of last four games; they're 3-2 on MAAC road, losing at Rider/Fairfield, winning by 35-12-7. MAAC home underdogs of 3 or less points are 9-5 vs spread. Canisius is 1-4 at home in MAAC but the one win was against Monmouth, which makes no sense.

Niagara lost five of last six games, with one win at lowly Marist; Eagles lost last two home games, to Canisius/Siena. Rider won five of last six vs Niagara, winning last three visits here by 9-12-9 points. Broncs won five of last seven games but are 1-5 on MAAC road, with one at St Peter's by 31. Niagara shoots 27.4% on arc, fifth-worst in country. MAAC home underdogs of more than 3 points are 2-8 vs spread.

Siena lost 72-68 at St Peter's Dec 6, fourth win in row for Peacocks vs Saints- three of those four were in Jersey City. St Peter's lost two of last three visits to Albany, winning LY after loses by 13-17 points. MAAC single digit home favorites are 11-14 vs spread. Siena is 6-2 in its last 8 games; they're 5-1 at home, with only loss 93-87 to Monmouth in last game Monday. Peacocks lost last four games, scoring 55.4 ppg.
 
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Woodbine Harness: Friday 2/5 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 4,8/5,6,7/2,6,7/5,7,9/2,4,7 = $32.40

EARLY PICK 4: 5,7,9/2,4,7/3,5/1,3,5,6 = $72

LATE PICK 4: 6,7/2,5/5,7/1,2,3,5 = $32

MEET STATS: 226 - 706 / $1211.70 BEST BETS: 37 - 65 / $128.80

SPOT PLAYS: 17 - 65 / $191.30

Best Bet: ELDORADO GOLD S (1st)

Spot Play: HIDDEN IDENTITY (7th)


Race 1

(4) ELDORADO OF GOLD S comes into this sporting an ugly most recent chart line, but if he can duplicate his effort from two back, he'll roll these. (8) ASPEN CALIFORNIA raced well in the Lifetime Dream series and looks like the main threat to the choice. (2) MISSYS GA GA moves into the top barn but will still likely be a big price due to her sketchy form. Kadabras can come up with dramatic improvement with no warning so she is worth considering here.

Race 2

(5) NEW STANDARD continues to be raced passively and close belatedly. Perhaps the small field here will allow him to get into position to win. (6) WAR N MUNN sports an interesting qualifier parked the route in some wicked fractions. That could have him fit enough as he debuts for Auciello here. (7) ST LADS CHARGER won a leg of the Snowshoe series and this group appears to be much easier. You have to put him on your Pick 5 ticket.

Race 3

(6) THREE TRUTHS got a clean line last week now gets Filion back, returns in 7 days and should be better here considering all of those factors; top call. (7) BIG BANG BOOM hasn't been strong enough down the lane his last two but a sub-28 third 1/4 likely was a big reason last week; using. (2) SHADOWFALL returns from a short break sporting a good qualifier and adds Lasix. He is a contender here.

Race 4

(9) ADAYMER SEELSTER faces the easiest field she has met in a long time and might offer a decent price starting farthest out; slight nod. (7) NEVERSAIDIWASSWEET raced okay twice vs. better after being claimed by Stewart and is likely primed for a big speed try here. (5) WHISTYS PARADISE faced a tough group last week and took a share. Dropping down gives her a big chance to score here. Use all three of these mares in the early pick 4.

Race 5

(2) WILDCAT MAGIC was too far back last time to threaten but moving inside here makes her a top contender. (4) BAROCKEY is obvious on the big class drop but will likely be wildly overbet. (7) MAPPOS MOENHAY raced out of her skin and took a new life's mark the only time she raced out of Moreau's barn on Jan. 15 and she goes for him here on the reclaim; don't take her lightly.

Race 6

(3) MUCH ADOO comes into this series in sharp form and will be tough here from close range. (5) SHOW SOME LEG showed speed vs. some tough elders last time and fits well here. Notice the win over the choice two back. (6) DOUBLE OLIVES tripped out behind several pace battles in the Blizzard Final and may be a bit overbet here, but she certainly figures.

Race 7

(5) HIDDEN IDENTITY has raced against much better for several weeks and may offer a square price here based on his most recent line; top call. (3) SCARY GOOD is hard to love on top considering he has won only one of his past 58 starts, but he's been racing okay for McNair who does move certain horses up and this is a really weak field. (1) THANKYOUKESSEL has won here off a layoff before and stacks up okay on ability in a field with few contenders.

Race 8

(7) TWIN B SWEETHEART took a new life's mark last week and could register a slight upset here if she can land in the pocket of the likely favorite (6) AMAZING CONTROL, who looks like the one to beat here. Slight nod to the former. (3) MACH MAGIC qualified decently twice and should pick up a minor share.

Race 9

(2) REGALLY READY was an impressive winner last week and Zeron may have her figured out now. She'll have to beat class-dropping (5) WAASMULA but the former is sure to offer a better price. (6) ROCK N ROLL XAMPLE tumbles in class for her third start of the year and should wake up with a better effort.

Race 10

(5) HOPE FOR PADDY drops for her 2nd start in Montini's barn and should show more here. (7) MISS COCO LUCK steps up off a win but could turn into a pocket rocket here and score at a better price. (2) MURRAYFIELD drops and should take a smaller share.

Race 11

(2) OLIVIAS WAY makes her 2nd start for trainer Johnson after being bottled up much of the way last week. She should get a more aggressive steer here. (3) WAR FILLY is showing the signs but needs a better start. (5) ADDISON BAY is a classy veteran that figures here as a recipient of some class relief. (1) BOAT HOUSE ROW got scorched from the 10-hole last time and figures to get a much better trip here. (8) ONYOURMARKNATAVA rarely gets bet yet often rolls up late for a slice; using.
 
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Meadowlands: Friday 2/5 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 3 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool ($18,653 C/O)

Race 5 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 9 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 85 - 285 / $472.10 (-$97.90) BEST BETS: 11 - 21 / $42.90 (+.90)

Best Bet: CROSBYS CLAM BAKE (9th)

Spot Play: JACKIE GOLDSTEIN (5th)


Race 1

(7) BJANTHONY has raced well in each of his 2016 starts and always seems to bring an honest effort to the track. I think he can get the jump on the field early and be sitting in a perfect position. (9) CELEBRITY MASSIVE did everything he could and closed well from an impossible spot last out. If he can get in a live flow, the possibility of an upset is there. (8) CURFEW went down the road last time and is a serious threat again if he makes an easy lead. (5) HERCU LINDY raced well in his lone 'big track' start for this barn. Tetrick in the bike is a nice plus.

Race 2

(4) UVA HANOVER gets a huge post shift this week to the inside of his main rivals and should sit no worse than a pocket trip. (6) OPULENT YANKEE is another that gets the benefit of the post assignments. He should dart to the front and control the race. (7) CAN DO was an impressive winner a week ago but seems destined to come first over this time. If he wins off that trip, so be it. (5) DETROIT RAPPER was flat last time but is capable.

[PICK FIVE CARRYOVER: Derick Giwner's video analysis of the $18,653 Friday Meadowlands carryover]

Race 3

(7) HILL I AM qualified back well and finished with good trot in his first start since August. Former NJ Sire Stakes champion gets the narrow call in a tight-knit race to start the $18,653 pick five carryover. (4) B L CLASS ACT has raced well with Campbell in the bike and did so again last Friday. This guy can pop a big mile at times. (6) SUPER CLASSIC worked out a good trip but lacked enough punch late against better foes last time. (1) MR LOVER moves into a new barn and that is always an angle to watch, especially in a field full of question marks. (2) LONG STORY SHORT & (3) OVER AND OUT would be no shock.

Race 4

(4) BLACK MAGIC EYES has been trying to close from last, which is no easy task. She gets class and post relief this time around and should receive an aggressive steer. (5) SENORITA SANTANNA could be worth a look moving to the 'big track' after some just okay efforts at Dover. She is coming off a 9-win year. (2) VILLAGE JESSICA has early speed and figures at least underneath. (7) EXOTIC BEACH gets away from a sharp foe in Game Of Dreamers.

Race 5

(1) JACKIE GOLDSTEIN was under a hold waiting for room that didn't develop until too late a week ago. He'll be overbet but looks like the most likely winner. (5) SHEER FLEX chased slow fractions last time and was Tetirck's pick over four others. (3) IM NOT VANILLA is clearly in form and driver Scott Zeron was red hot last weekend.

Race 6

(4) NORTHERN GRACE came up short while uncovered after missing 21 days of action. She only needs to be slightly better to win. (2) KEYSTONE THOMAS is in a perfect spot to work out a pocket trip and his only downside is the possibility of too much outside speed messing up the plane. (5) ITS PAYDAY FRIDAY has shown he can trot a big mile; dangerous.

Race 7

(7) CLEAR VIEW HANOVER took charge against lesser last time but is more than capable of handling a class jump. (9) NOT BEFORE EIGHT is going to need a bit of help in terms of pace setup, but if the track is playing favorably she could charge home at about 8-1. (1) MONTENEGRO moves from outside posts to pylon position. Veteran mare is capable of winning. (8) RADAR CONTACT has the class and is inching in on millionaire status. That said, I'm going to give her a start after the two month break.

Race 8

(3) TWO HIP DIP threw in a clunker last week but his prior effort was fine. A class drop tonight combined with a different set of hands at the controls should only help. (2) T JS MR LAVEC comes off a game try on the engine and merits a long look in this spot as a wire to wire threat. (5) FOX VALLEY LEGEND had too much to do in his most recent race; chance with a clean trip.

Race 9

(5) CROSBYS CLAM BAKE made breaks in exactly the same spot at Yonkers in two of his last three starts. He's back at the Meadowlands now and at a reduced condition. I'm expecting a big effort. (1) B YOYO drops out of the Open and we saw Andy Miller take over for Bongiorno last week and win one. (2) BORN TO FIGHT has form on his side but tackles some tough foes.

Race 10

(6) PURITY dropped to this condition and put in a big effort. In fact, she's been racing well most weeks; narrow call. (7) HAPPILY EVER AFTER drops back down to the level where she was a good second two starts back. (3) BULLVILLE MAGGIE could pull off a big upset with the right journey. (1) ALWAYS ABOUT KATEY was pretty bad last time and now steps down the class ladder. I know this mare is better than what we saw but the 1-35 record for trainer Heidi Rohr is hardly appealing; mixed feelings.

Race 11

(3) ANDOVERS TOUCH qualified very well and was under a hold late in his debut for new trainer Scott DiDomenico. This is a dull field and I'm going to take a shot here despite the barn's 0-10 record. (6) WISHIN IWAS FISHIN would be 3-5 with a top catch driver. Ten-year-old is capable of pulling off the upset. (2) MY HEIDI is somewhat unreliable but wouldn't be a complete shock.

Race 12

I've looked at this race two separate times and none of these bottom level mares even comes close to jumping off the page. (3) MISS DEFIANCE dropped to this level last time but couldn't get involved from the outside post. She moves inside now and should provide decent value. (8) BRING THEM HOME took a shot on the lead and battled gamely last Friday. (7) DELTA DAWN HANOVER was flat late in her most recent race. I really want to see her show early speed.

Race 13

(5) NATURAL KEMP has legitimate excuses for his two poor showings at this level and deserves one final chance. (8) SCORCHER HALL faces the weakest field he has seen in recent memory and could perk up in a hurry. (7) BROOKROAD KNIGHT will offer a big price and doesn't seem out of his element versus this group.

Race 14

(8) MC TINY'S HOPE moves into a new barn and Simons is a good trotting guy. Despite the lackluster qualifier, I'll take a shot that he can tap into this guy's back class. (3) KEYSTONE TREVOR could make the top in this spot and secure a good trip. (2) ORANGE BIGI finished fast late a week ago and seems likely to be overbet now. (7) POPPY SYDNEY RIDGE finished second in this class last Friday.
 
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Yonkers: Friday 2/5 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 39 - 138 / $262.60

BEST BETS: 2 - 11 / $10.70

Best Bet: MAGIC MANNY (8th)

Spot Play: CHEYENNE MIRIAM (10th)


Race 1

(2) MISS MACHQUEEN showed signs of life in her last two trips; in her latest, she had dull cover and had to settle for show honors; worth a shot. (3) OCEANS MOTION will need a better trip than in her last start to contend in here. (1) DEREK DELIGHT moves to the fence and that should help this speedy mare's cause.

Race 2

(1) WARRAWEE ONYX had good cover and rolled over the competition for his second straight score last out; form is sharp and is very capable of nailing down the hat trick. (6) CAMBRIDGE took charge at the mile pole but did not have enough gas in the tank to take home top honors. (2) LILYS SWAN POND qualifiers at the Big M were very sharp to compete with these.

Race 3

(6) M A REFLING was extremely wide and rallied quite well to grab fourth money last out; now she leaves the 8-hole and with a much better trip, she can get the job done. (3) SUMMER SNOW was up on the rim approaching the 3/4 pole, but went flat thru the stretch recently. (8) AFTER ALIMONY comes by way of Canada with a good resume, but her assignment will be from the far outside slot.

Race 4

(8) HOOSIER CHATTER moves to door number 8 tonight and in her last try, she did put in a mild bid; pacing mare is capable of mowing them down given a favorable trip. (1) SENTIMENTAL LADY took the pocket route home for all the glory in her last try. (3) CRUISINWITHMYBABY in her last four starts, this mare is clearly knocking at the door.

Race 5

(1) PLAY THE JUSTICE makes his second trip at the Hilltop and gets a cozy post; was good at his Indiana headquarters so with that said, this gelding must be considered. (2) HASTY PROFFITT flashed good speed most of the way but tired in deep stretch in his last start. (3) KICK A LOT gets serious post relief and that should help his cause.

Race 6

(4) BAZOOKA TERROR did not fire against most of these last week; pacing mare has gotten the job done 2 out of 4 tries and she might be fit and ready to make some serious noise. (5) JUNGLE GENIE N is quite consistent and is seeking her first score of the year. (1) REGIL ELEKTRA 6-year-old miss moves to the rail slot and has good early pace.

Race 7

(2) ELM GROVE INARUSH could not get going against a tough group last time out; now she moves down the ladder and closed strongly to miss the score by a neck against Open foes at Freehold; threat at her best. (6) HAZMATT has wheeled off two straight victories in her only two attempts at Yonkers. (1) JENNAS PATRIOT has picked up checks in her last three outings and should fare well from the fence.

Race 8

(2) MAGIC MANNY is sharp and consistent; led every step of the way but when turning for home, he could not hold off the top two last out; has every right to atone. (1) ONTHECLOCK HANOVER was on the engine from start to finish against lesser recently. (8) FOUR BOYS has good closing kick but will have to do his rallying cry from the 8-hole.

Race 9

(7) BUBBIE BOY 8-year-old gelding has a good record; did take home top honors at the Meadowlands four starts ago; must be considered in all the exotic slots. (2) COACH CAL needs to revert to his January 21st try to make some noise against these. (5) FITZ'S Z TAM was very sharp in his latest with a pocket-rocket victory last time out.

Race 10

(2) CHEYENNE MIRIAM If you throw out her last trip to the post, this gal had done quite well at this level; at her best and a well covered trip can put her right back into the winner's circle. (3) SCOOTIN FOR JOY put in a very good qualifier here and has speed. (6) ART IDEAL took an inside journey home for all the glory last time around.

Race 11

Will try (7) BAS J to put it all together; moves up the scale but is not facing any standouts in here; quite capable. (6) NOBLE WARRAWEE stayed in the pocket most of the way, but had to settle for the placing missing glory by a 1/2 length. (5) SOBORO HANOVER was completely out of it in his Jersey finale but could turn it around on a half-mile oval.

Race 12

(4) JADED DREAM leaves her Meadows headquarters with good numbers. In her latest, she was up on the rim ready to attack, but could not hold off the top three finishers; big threat with a fine-timed drive from Kakaley. (2) SIR JILLIAN Z TAM was sharp in victory via the pocket route recently. (5) SEEKING NIRVANA has been in the exacta in her last four outings.
 
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SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (5th) Porch Pounder, 7-2
(6th) Bensational, 4-1

Charles Town (1st) Exposed, 3-1
(2nd) Mighty Pleasing, 4-1

Delta Downs (4th) Pi, 5-1
(10th) It's Time to B, 9-2


Fair Grounds (2nd) Unbridled's Issue, 9-2
(5th) Carlita Shake, 4-1


Golden Gate Fields (2nd) Eddie and the King, 9-2
(5th) Two Pump, 9-2


Gulfstream Park (7th) Mobilize, 7-2
(9th) Giant's Jewel, 4-1


Laurel Park (3rd) Dreamin of Betty, 8-1
(8th) Double Whammy, 6-1


Oaklawn Park (4th) Thunder Ranger, 8-1
(5th) Zonly, 7-2


Penn National (4th) Ms. Scariecarrie, 3-1
(6th) Captured, 9-2


Sam Houston (3rd) Broadway Missile, 4-1
(5th) Higher End, 7-2


Santa Anita (6th) Player's Charm, 7-2
(8th) Dive Down, 6-1


Tampa Bay Downs (5th) High Native Fly, 8-1
(6th) Dragon Queen, 6-1


Turfway Park (7th) Highroller Dave, 7-2
(8th) Colbyville, 4-1
 
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Friday's six-pack

-- Oregon State 71, Utah 69-- Have you ever seen two 3-point shooters fouled in last 0:02.2 of a game? It happened here, with lead changing both times.

-- Vanderbilt 77, Texas A&M 60-- We'll see Commodores on Selection Sunday.

-- UTEP 112, Marshall 108-- You score 108 points, you should win. Always.

-- Portland 73, Pepperdine 70-- 11.5-point dog Pilots were biggest upset of night.

-- Sacramento State 83, Montana 79-- Big Sky leaders blew 43-29 halftime lead.

-- USC 80, UCLA 61-- Trojans spanked UCLA twice this year; neither was close.
 
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Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Friday

885 BUCKS @ 886 JAZZ 9:05 pm

Take: 886 JAZZ -7

I’m not what one would refer to as a history buff when it comes to sports betting. But some numbers are a little hard to ignore. Take as an example the series results between the Milwaukee Bucks and Utah Jazz. Talk about beyond lopsided. The Jazz have covered 21 of the last 26 against Milwaukee, including a nifty 13-3 spread ledger at home.

That doesn’t mean another ticket gets cashed on the Utah side tonight. But it’s not the worst starting point of all time. Some in-season trends add a little fuel to the fire. Milwaukee has struggled playing on the road off a loss, while the Jazz have been pretty good playing at home off a win.

But for me, the nuts and bolts here is the matchup. It looks to me like the Alec Burks injury has been some addition by subtraction for the Jazz. I’m not a big Burks guy, and some of his metrics back up that opinion. I don’t think it’s over the top to suggest this team is simply better with Burks not on the floor for meaningful minutes.

On the Bucks side, they’ve had some injury issues, and while the sidelined players are not stars, I have to believe the thinned out bench is contributing to the recent poor play by Milwaukee.

In any event, Milwaukee heads into Salt Lake City having lost six of seven. That contrasts unfavorably with Utah’s form, as the Jazz have won four straight. The recent surge by the Jazz has vaulted them into the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference.

In power rate the NBA with two sets of numbers, one full season and the other a fast rating based more on recent play. As a rule I put more emphasis on the latter, for what I think are fairly obvious reasons. In tonight’s game, I make Utah -11.5, so I don’t have a problem in terms of value. Add in the extras, such as that crazy series history, and I’m willing to lay the points this time with the Jazz.
 
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Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp NBA Pick, Friday, Feb 5, 2016 9:35 PM EST

(869) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (870) DALLAS MAVERICKS

Take: UNDER THE TOTAL

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Friday, February 5, 2016 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the San Antonio Spurs and the Mavericks in Dallas. A rivalry game, which will mean intense defense. San Antonio is very strong defensively, No. 1 in the NBA in points allowed, No. 2 in field goal shooting defense. They face a struggling Dallas offense that has scored under 100 points in four straight (3-1 run under the total). The Mavericks are off a 93-90 home loss to Miami, playing without Deron Williams after he injured his right hip in a collision two nights earlier in Atlanta. Dallas is 20-7-1 under the total playing on one day of rest and 14-5-1 under against the Western Conference. And when these rivals clash the under is 6-0. Play San Antonio/Dallas under the total.
 
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Mike Lundin

Grizzlies vs Knicks

8* NBA Free Pick Memphis Grizzlies

This looks like a very tough spot for the New York Knicks who have lost seven of their last eight and are fresh off a 111-105 setback at Detroit last night. They're returning home to MSG to take on the red hot Memphis Grizzlies who are winners of eight of their last nine and four straight (4-0 ATS). The Grizzlies defeated the Knicks 103-95 on Jan. 16 as Marc Gasol scored 37 points and the center has averaged 20.4 on 50.6% shooting in his past 10 games. The Grizzlies have covered the spread in four of the last five meetings in the series and should have no trouble to win and cover tonight as well.
 
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Marc Lawrence

Spurs vs Mavs

Play - Dallas Mavericks

Edges - Mavericks: 3-1 SU and 4-0 ATS home with same season double revenge-exact; and 9-4 ATS in this series when off a SU favorite loss. Spurs: 2-6 ATS away on Fridays, including 0-4 ATS in division games. With San Antonio off a revenge win over New Orleans, and the Mavs off a home loss, we recommend a 1* play on Dallas. Thank you and good luck as always.
 
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Art Aronson

Hurricanes vs Jets

1* Bonus Play Hurricanes.

We don't subscribe to any one single handicapping methodology, but instead feel that being flexible with ones approach is the best way to secure profits over the longterm. Sometimes we keep it simple, while other times we'll take into account a bunch of different factors, like motivation, scheduling and significant injuries. Recognizing classic "spot bets" is something we always do as well, IE: the "look ahead" spot, the "let down" spot and the "trap" game. The actual contestants on the field of play rarely enter into our equation when making selections, unless it's a Top 3 player like a LeBron James or Aaron Rodgers etc. One set of criteria which we almost always use when making our decisions, are Against The Spread (ATS) statistics. Sometimes these stats can be overrated and other times they help foreshadow the outcome of a contest.

This particular play is based on a few different factors:

Slumping home side: Winnipeg is 1-4-0 during a six-game homestand and is 2-6-0 overall in 2016. Winnipeg has allowed an average of a whopping 3.11 GAA in nine games since January 10th. The Jets penalty kill is among the league’s worst at 77.2 percent.

Surging into the break: Carolina had gone 7-2-1 to pull within a single point of the wild-card spot before the All-Star Break, but came out flat in a 4-1 loss to the Flames on Tuesday. Note that previous to that, the Hurricanes had killed off 23 of 24 penalties spanning nine games.

Scheduling: It’s not too hard to imagine the Jets getting caught “looking ahead” to their three game road trip, which starts tomorrow night in Colorado.

Revenge: Carolina has lost seven of the last ten in the series, including both games last year.

The bottom line: Looks like a good spot to pull the trigger on a solid underdog play, consider a second look at the HURRICANES in this one.

AAA Sports
 

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