Friday 2/6/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Preview: Penguins (29-14) at Flames (29-20)

Date: February 06, 2015 9:00 PM EDT

The Calgary Flames have made it clear they plan to hang around in the Western Conference race in pursuit of their first playoff appearance in six years.

It's been even longer since they've beaten the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Calgary seeks a fourth consecutive victory while looking to end an eight-game skid against the visiting Penguins on Friday night.

The Flames (29-20-1) last qualified for the postseason in 2008-09, but their recent hot stretch has put them in solid position to end that drought. They've won eight of 10, including four of the first five on a homestand that ends with this contest.

Calgary is on the verge of winning a fourth straight for the fourth time this season after Kris Russell, Jiri Hudler and Mason Raymond scored in the second period of Wednesday's 3-1 win over San Jose.

"The further up you can move the better, especially against a team in the West," said Jonas Hiller, who made 28 saves. "They're four-point games. We won't be able to win every game until the end of the year, but we've got to be ready. We have the goal to be in the playoffs and the more games we win the better chance we have."

Russell, a defenseman, scored for the first time in 50 games.

'Obviously, I would have liked it to come a little quicker,' Russell said. 'The character in this room shows when you go through something like that and you continue to keep trying to get better and keep improving and don't let that affect your season."

The Flames last saw Pittsburgh (29-14-8) during their lowest point of the season, when they dropped eight straight from Dec. 6-20. That slump included a 3-1 loss to the Penguins, who haven't lost to Calgary since 2005.

Kris Letang scored in the last meeting, and he assisted on David Perron's goal in Wednesday's 2-0 win over Edmonton as Pittsburgh began a three-game road trip through Canada.

Evgeni Malkin scored in his return from a five-game absence due to a groin injury and helped create opportunities for linemates Patric Hornqvist and Mark Arcobello.

'He generates a lot,' coach Mike Johnston said of Malkin. 'Not only his scoring chances, but with his ability to set guys up and create space for players. I think that line generated more than anybody.'

The Penguins had gone 2-4-2 since Jan. 16 prior to Wednesday as Marc-Andre Fleury went 1-4-1 with a 3.63 goals-against average in six starts during that stretch.

Fleury made 22 saves against the Oilers to earn his first shutout since blanking Colorado on Dec. 18.

'It feels like it's been a while since I got one,' said Fleury, whose seventh shutout matched a franchise record. 'It was a little quiet for me the first two periods, but the third was a bit more one-sided for them. It was nice to finish on a good note.'

Fleury has a 1.50 GAA while winning his last six starts against the Flames after stopping 25 shots in the last meeting. Hiller made 16 saves in that contest and could be in net again.

Hiller, 2-3-1 with a 2.83 GAA in six career starts against Pittsburgh, is 4-1-0 with a 1.47 GAA in his last six appearances.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Capitals D showing signs of fatigue on no days rest
Justin Hartling

The Washington Capitals are 2-8 this season when they play on no days rest, and it is their defense that has been showing the most wear. In the 10 games that the Caps have played with no rest, they have allowed 3.9 goals per game which is more than a goal more than their season average.

Washington will host the Anaheim Ducks Friday.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Game of the Day: Warriors at Hawks

Golden State Warriors at Atlanta Hawks (+1.5, 214.5)

The Atlanta Hawks and the Golden State Warriors both have comfortable leads on the rest of their respective conferences. The two juggernauts will try to decide which team in the best in the NBA when the Warriors visit the Hawks on Friday. Golden State owns the best winning percentage in the league at .830 but is two behind Atlanta in total wins as it embarks on a stretch of 10 of the next 11 games on the road.

The Warriors appeared to be looking ahead to Friday in the first quarter of Wednesday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks, falling behind 24-4 early in the first quarter before turning things around on both ends. The Hawks had their own bounce-back performance on Wednesday with an easy victory over the Washington Wizards two nights after their franchise-record 19-game winning streak came to an end. Golden State and Atlanta both rely on rapid ball movement while ranking first and second, respectively, in the NBA in assists.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, CSN Bay Area (Golden State), SportSouth (Atlanta)

LINE HISTORY: The line opened as ATL +1.5 with a total of 214.5.

INJURY REPORT: Warriors - N/A Hawks - G Shelvin Mack (Ques-Calf)

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "Golden State (39-8) has been the best team in the NBA this season. The Warriors own the #1 defense and the #2 offense in efficiency metrics. To compare, Atlanta is 41-9 on the season, but the Hawks rank #5 in both offensive and defensive efficiency. It’s of no surprise that Golden State is a road favorite in this game as they are the better team. However, the Warriors are off back to back games in which they scored 121 and 128 points, and teams normally would regress in their next game. But Golden State has already scored 126 points in two consecutive games and 126 points or more in four straight games last month. Atlanta has not been as dominant lately as their last three wins have all come by 9 points or less while going just 2-4 ATS over their last six games." - Steve Merril

ABOUT THE WARRIORS (39-8, 31-15-1 ATS, 24-23 O/U): Stephen Curry went for a season-high 51 points while burying 10 3-pointers in the 128-114 win over the Mavericks on Wednesday and has gone for 21 or more points in six straight games. The All-Star guard averages 24.9 points on the road this season and Golden State is 14-1 against the East, including 6-0 against the Southeast Division. “Everyone feels good right now. We’re in good shape and ready to roll,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr told reporters. “There shouldn’t be any excuses.”

ABOUT THE HAWKS (41-9, 35-15 ATS, 27-23 O/U): Atlanta’s 24-3 home record is bested only by Golden State’s 23-2 mark, and the Hawks picked up their 11th straight home victory in Wednesday’s 105-96 triumph over the Wizards. Atlanta doesn’t have anyone like Curry but is instead exceptional due to its balance, which was highlighted when the NBA named all five starters as co-Players of the Month for January. “It’s something that is reflective of how the group is playing and that our team, hopefully, can be a challenge for our opponent every night on both ends of the court and that we are doing things together collectively,” Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer told reporters. “That is what we are talking about every day whether anybody else recognizes it or not.”

TRENDS:

* Warriors are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games vs. a team with a winning SU record.
* Hawks are 22-4 ATS in their last 26 games following an ATS win.
* Over is 4-0 in Warriors last four games playing on one days rest.
* Over is 5-1 in Hawks last six games overall.

CONSENSUS: 58.82 percent are backing GS -1.5.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Calender year dictated by lack of offense for Heat
Justin Hartling

Since the start of 2015, the Miami Heat are 3-13 over/under, thanks to their inability to score. The team from South Beach have averaged 88.9 points and have scored fewer than 90 points (five) than they have hit triple-digits (three).

Miami has been hitting the under all season-long, heading into Friday's game with a 18-31 O/U record.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Lackluster offense keeping Nuggets from covering
Justin Hartling

The Denver Nuggets have lost their past four games, both straight up and against the spread. During those four games the Nuggets have averaged 88.25 points, including a 69 point performance against Memphis.

Denver has been one of the worst ATS teams this season, going 19-28-3.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

76ers surprisingly strong against the spread
Justin Hartling

The Philadelphia 76ers have now covered in five straight games. Thanks to improved play by Philly, who have outscored opponents by 3.4 points per game during that span, while facing an average spread of +10.5.

The 76ers who face the Boston Celtics Friday, have also covered in their past four against the Eastern Conference.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Southeast Division Analysis
By Joe Nelson

Take a look as the five teams in the Eastern Conference Southeast Division as we approach the halfway point in the season. Here is a breakdown of the results and spread results for each team in the Southeast division and a look at what situations may be favorable moving forward for each squad.

The Southeast was expected to fall off the map a bit this season with the expected decline of the Miami Heat but the Atlanta Hawks have emerged as one of the leaders in the NBA this season coming off an incredible win streak this winter. Washington has also looked like a serious Eastern Conference contender at times this season and despite losing records both Charlotte and Miami would make the playoffs right now as this has been a stronger and deeper division than most expected.

Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks have been the story of the season so far with a 41-9 record through 50 games. Atlanta has an eight game lead over Toronto for the top spot in the Eastern Conference and the +6.9 average point differential for the Hawks leads the conference by over two points per game. Not surprisingly the Hawks have been a great ATS performer, going 34-15-1 ATS and they led an incredible cover streak in January that just recently was halted. This was a team that was 1-3 to start the season and 5-5 through 10 games, meaning that the Hawks have won 36 of the last 41 games for a truly dominant run. Atlanta has played the weakest schedule in the NBA by most measures however so there could be some correction ahead for the Hawks who will also likely be overvalued at times.

While Atlanta only has three S/U losses at home all season, going 17-10 ATS, the profits for Hawks backers have been on the road where Atlanta is 17-5-1 ATS on the season. The Hawks are 9-4 ATS as an underdog and 25-11-1 ATS as a favorite this season including going 8-2-1 ATS this season as a road favorite. A big part of the success for the Hawks vs. the number is that Atlanta is rarely a heavy favorite and in fact the Hawks have not done well as a big favorite this season despite overwhelming success in most areas. This season the Hawks are just 5-9 ATS as a favorite of seven or more points. Atlanta has leaned slightly to the ‘over’ on the season with the ‘over’ 27-22-1 but there has not been a substantial edge on totals for the Hawks home or away.

Washington Wizards: The Wizards looked like a lock for one of the top three seeds in the Eastern Conference a few weeks ago but a recent slide now has Washington clinging to the third spot with just a game separating the #3, #4, and #5 seeds in the Eastern Conference. Those other teams are Cleveland and Chicago, certainly teams that will be feared in the post-season so there should be a big incentive for the Wizards to avoid being drawn into the 4/5 first round matchup. The Wizards have looked like an overachiever much of the season with only a +1.7 average point differential on the year, lower than several teams with worse records this season.

Those close margins have kept Washington as a losing spread performer at 21-28-1 ATS through 50 games including an ugly ATS run since the calendar turned to 2015 with a 7-13 ATS run. Washington is just 14-19 ATS as a favorite this season and just 6-11 ATS when laying five or more points this season. Washington has been a .500 team as a road favorite but the Wizards have struggled in the road underdog role at just 4-8 ATS this season. Washington games have leaned to the ‘over’ with the Wizards on the road and leaned to the ‘under’ in home games at this point in the season, sitting with totals knotted at 25-25 overall for the season through 50 games.

Charlotte Hornets: In the first year with the Charlotte team back as the Hornets, Charlotte did not look like a playoff team for much of the season. If the season ended now the Hornets would face an increasingly vulnerable looking Toronto team in the first round however. It has been a great turnaround for the franchise that has had little success since its creation as this squad was 6-19 S/U in mid-December, looking bound to be one of the top teams in the lottery yet again. Charlotte is 15-8 S/U since December 19 for a great run back into playoff contention but surprisingly Charlotte is only 14-9 ATS in that span. The turnaround was not really a huge surprise as Charlotte has been favored in nine of those 23 games and the Hornets are rarely picking up wins against top competition.

A clear trend has emerged with this team as they are 14-8-1 ATS on the road and just 9-16 ATS at home. The Hornets have only been a road favorite three times all season as they have been a profitable road underdog to support going 12-6-1 ATS on the season with Charlotte covering in nine of the last 12 instances as a road underdog. Given the competitive play the Bobcats have often been a tempting team as a home underdog but they are just 3-7 ATS this season in that role. Totals have leaned very slightly to the ‘over’ for the Bobcats this season though that trend has reversed course of late with seven of the last eight Charlotte games staying ‘under’ as of early February.

Miami Heat: Of the teams in the bottom half of the NBA Miami has shown the potential to knock off a contender once in a while even though this has been a disappointing team sitting at 21-28 S/U through 49 games. Miami is still right in the thick of the playoff race even in a clear transition season after four straight trips to the NBA Finals. A -3.7 average point differential is actually worse than four teams that the Heat sit ahead of in the Eastern Conference standings with Miami currently holding the final playoff position. Miami has played a rather difficult schedule however and the Heat is playing good defense on most nights.

Miami is just 8-15 S/U and ATS at home this season for one of the worst home court edges in the league. Miami is 22-25-2 ATS overall this season which actually is not too bad considering that most expected the Heat to still be a serious Eastern Conference contender this season. Miami has struggled playing as a favorite at just 6-10-1 ATS on the season but the Heat have been a tough road team at 14-10-2 ATS. The strongest position in Miami games has been taking the ‘under’ as the ‘under’ is 31-18 in Heat games this season. Since the calendar turned to 2015, 13 of 16 Miami games have stayed ‘under’. Almost all of the success for backing the ‘under’ in Miami games has been with the Heat away from home where the ‘under’ is 19-7 this season even with the two most recent road games for the Heat going ‘over’.

Orlando Magic: Jacque Vaughn was recently fired as the head coach of the Orlando Magic with Orlando just 15-37 on the season. While it has been a disappointing season for the Magic it is not really clear what was expected given that several prominent players left the team in the offseason and this is a very young and unproven squad. Orlando was certainly expected to be one of the worst teams in the league this season and a surprisingly competitive start to the season may have doomed Vaughn as expectations elevated with the team opening the season 5-8 S/U. Almost all of those wins came against some of the fellow bottom-tier teams in the league and Vaughn was fired with the team on a 2-16 S/U run since late December. Orlando has a slight winning ATS record this season at 27-25 ATS and in mid-December the Magic were a sneaky good spread performer at 16-10 ATS through December 13.

It has been a downward trend since and it will be interesting to see how the team reacts to the changes. The clear rule of thumb has been the back the Magic on the road where they are 20-10 ATS while going just 7-15 ATS at home on the season. Orlando is 8-2 ATS as a double-digit underdog this season as they have competed well even when clearly overmatched and while it has not happened often the Magic are just 2-5 ATS as a favorite this season. Orlando is 20-8 ATS as a road underdog this season including 16-5 ATS when dogged by at least six points. Backing the ‘over’ in Magic home games has been profitable with the ‘over’ at 14-8 in Orlando this season with a recent seven-game ‘over’ home streak snapped last week.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Light's out shooting'

It’s rare for an NBA team to shoot above 50.0% and it’s one angle to utilize as a NBA sports bettor. When checking NBA boxscores, pay attention to red-hot shooting clubs especially ones that shoot 55.0% or more from the field. That's because there’s a chance they’ll go ice cold the next time they hit the hardwood providing a good ATS 'Go-Against' play. Our trusted NBA DataBase tells us, since 2012 'Playing-Against' teams after dropping 55.0% of their shots through the iron the previous effort has produced a 156-148-4 record against the betting line (50.6%). Not overly impressive, however if we focus solely on 'Playing-Against an unrested favorite after dropping 55.0% of their shots the hit rate improves to 63.9% (23-13 ATS). The best situation to keep an eye out for is 'Play-Against' an unrested home favorite after a light's out shooting performance. It won't pop up often but given the hit rate paying attention can pay off handsomely as the situation is a sparkling 8-2 against the betting line.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB Big East Analysis
By Kevin Rogers

The Big East race has turned into a good one nearly halfway through conference play. Four teams are within one game of each other for first place (Villanova, Georgetown, Butler, and Providence), while three other squads own .500 or better records inside the league (DePaul, Seton Hall, and Xavier). Looking ahead to the final half of the regular season prior to the Big East tournament at Madison Square Garden in New York, many of these teams have established play-on and play-against situations.

Villanova (20-2, 7-2)

The Wildcats battle Georgetown in a key revenge spot on Saturday in Philadelphia, looking to avenge a 78-58 blowout loss last month. Jay Wright’s team has rebounded with three consecutive blowouts, knocking off Creighton, DePaul, and Marquette by double-digits each. Granted, those three squads are in the bottom half of the conference, but all seven Big East wins are by at least 12 points.

The upcoming three-game stretch for the Wildcats will be a big test to see if they can hold onto the top spot in the league. Following a home matchup with Georgetown (7-4), Villanova heads to Providence (7-3) next Wednesday, then a trip to Butler (7-3) next Saturday. The Wildcats have covered four of five home games in the conference, with the lone ATS loss coming as 21 ½-point favorites against DePaul in a 17-point victory.

Butler (17-6, 7-3)

The transition from the Atlantic 10 to the Big East wasn’t easy for the Bulldogs last season, losing 14 of 18 league contests. However, Butler has proven it can hang in a major conference by winning seven of its first 10 Big East games, while also beating North Carolina and Georgetown in the Bahamas during the Thanksgiving break. Butler began league play with a 12-point loss at Villanova, but is 7-2 SU/ATS in the past nine games with the only defeats coming by four to Providence and two at Georgetown.

Given Villanova’s upcoming schedule, it wouldn’t be crazy to think that Butler could move into the top spot in the conference. The next six games for the Bulldogs are against DePaul, Villanova, at Creighton, at Xavier, Marquette, and at DePaul. Butler has won 11 of 12 games at Hinkle Fieldhouse, while squeezing out three road wins by four points apiece at St. John’s, Seton Hall, and Marquette.

Providence (17-6, 7-3)

The Friars shocked the Big East by locking up the automatic berth for the NCAA Tournament by capturing the conference tournament title last March over Creighton. Providence has carried over that momentum to this season, as Ed Cooley’s squad overcame a three-game skid in non-conference play (which included a home loss to Brown) to win 11 of its past 14 contests. The Friars have lost three conference games, but two of those have come to St. John’s, who owns a 3-6 record in the league.

Providence faces a tough test on Saturday with a trip to Xavier, as the Friars held off the Musketeers in their previous matchup in overtime, 69-66 to barely cover as 2-point favorites on January 22. The Friars return to the Dunkin Donuts Center for a pair of games next week against Villanova and Seton Hall, while owning a 6-2 ATS record the past eight contests with the only two non-covers coming to St. John’s.

Georgetown (15-7, 7-4)

The Hoyas fell apart late in Wednesday’s 74-71 home defeat to Providence as 6 ½-point favorites, the second setback to the Friars this season. Georgetown started conference play winning its first four home games, but has lost each of its past two games at the Verizon Center. Playing in the role of a favorite has not been profitable, posting a 2-5 ATS record in the last seven games when laying points, but the Hoyas have won five times in this stretch.

Georgetown still has two meetings apiece with Seton Hall and St. John’s, while making trips to Villanova (Saturday) and Butler (March 3). For as much as the Hoyas have slipped up at home recently, Georgetown has picked things up away from the Nation’s Capital with three straight road victories following an 0-2 start on the highway inside the league.

What else to watch for:

DePaul was expected to be near the bottom of the conference once again, but the Blue Demons surprised the ATS audience by covering each of their first seven Big East games. Oliver Purnell’s club pulled off upsets of Marquette, Seton Hall, and Xavier, while surprising Creighton as 10-point ‘dogs. However, the Blue Demons have slowed up with a 1-3 ATS mark of late, even though DePaul is fresh off a home ‘dog victory over an inconsistent Seton Hall club.

If Seton Hall is listed as a favorite in Big East play, it’s probably a good idea to fade them, as the Pirates have posted an 0-3 SU/ATS record when laying points inside the league. Besides a 13-point loss at DePaul on Tuesday, the Hall has also lost at home to Butler and DePaul in the favorite role. However, Seton Hall owns a solid 5-2 SU/ATS mark as an underdog against conference foes, as the Pirates will be likely listed as a ‘dog next week against Georgetown at home, Villanova on the road, and Providence on the highway.

St. John’s has been the worst ATS team in the league, covering twice in nine tries. The Red Storm swept Providence and covered each time, meaning Steve Lavin’s club has failed to cover a Big East game against anybody that doesn’t play in Rhode Island. St. John’s will be favored in its next two games against Creighton and DePaul at home, as the Red Storm has lost to both of those teams already as a road favorite.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB Hot & Not Report
By Brian Edwards

Money Makers:

Georgia Southern has only faced one team inside of the RPI's Top 150 so if you haven't taken notice of this squad yet, you're forgiven. But sharp bettors have been playing plenty of attention to the Eagles, who have been cashing tickets at a frenetic 11-2-1 against-the-spread clip. They face Ga. St. in Statesboro on Thursday night with first place in the Sun Belt Conference on the line. Ga. Southern, a four-point home 'dog to the Panthers, are unbeaten in nine home games with a 3-0-2 spread record. The Eagles lost 80-71 at Illinois in their only significant non-conference game, easily taking the cash as 23-point road underdogs.

Like Ga. Southern, Pepperdine is a home underdog Thursday night to BYU. The Waves, who won outright against the Cougars as 15-point 'dogs on Jan. 8, own a stellar 14-4-2 ATS record. They are led by junior forward Stacy Davis, who averages 15.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Pepperdine (14-8 straight up), which plays five of its last seven games at home, is coming off of Saturday's 67-62 win at Saint Mary's as an eight-point underdog.

Davidson has failed to cover the number in back-to-back games and three of its last five. Nevertheless, Bob McKillop's squad has still compiled a 13-4 spread record for the season. There's a reason why Davidson hasn't been impressive lately, as the team is missing its best player due to a slight meniscus tear. Jack Gibbs missed his fourth consecutive game Wednesday when the Wildcats lost a 62-61 decision to St. Bonaventure as 7.5-point home 'chalk.' Gibbs is averaging 15.8 points, 4.9 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game. When Gibbs will return remains a mystery. Also, Jake Belford (7.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG) was lost to a season-ending injury in December. Davidson (14-6 SU) has an RPI of 55 with home games looming vs. Duquesne (2/7) and George Mason (2/11). This team's ATS production is clearly waning, so bettors should stay away until Gibbs returns.

Money Burners:

San Jose State has been a mess all season. The Spartans, who have the nation's worst ATS ledger (3-14-2), have seen their roster gutted by three season-ending injuries and the dismissals of three other players from the program. The starting backcourt (Devante Wilson and Jalen James) is gone due to injuries. Dave Wojcik's team has zero wins against D-1 competition and is 1-13-2 versus the number in its last 16 lined games. SJS has lost nine of its 10 Mountain West games by 11 points or more.

CSU Northridge, which competes in the Big West, has also seen its personnel decimated by six suspensions. The result has been a 4-13-1 ATS mark. The Matadors seem to be improving recently, however, going 3-3 ATS in their last six games. After playing at Cal St. Fullerton on Thursday, they return home to take on UC Davis.

Pittsburgh (15-8 SU) has been an NCAA Tournament mainstay during Jamie Dixon's tenure, but it has limped to a 5-14-1 ATS record. Barring a hot run the rest of the regular season, the Panthers are going to have to win the ACC Tournament in order to hear their name called on Selection Sunday. The first issue came up in November when Durand Johnson (8.8 PPG last year) was lost to a season-long suspension. Next, Cameron Johnson (4.5 PPG) suffered a shoulder injury that has kept him out since early December. Pitt did pick up its best win this past Saturday when it upset Notre Dame as a home underdog. The Panthers host Syracuse this Saturday before going to Louisville on Feb. 11.

**B.E.'s Bonus Nuggets**

-- Penn State owns a 7-0 spread record as an underdog this season. Looking ahead at its schedule, PSU will probably be a 'dog in at least five of its last eight regular-season games.

-- The 'over' has hit in seven straight games for Pitt.

-- Florida is mired in a 1-5 ATS slump with its only spread cover coming by one-half point in a 52-50 win at Alabama as a 1.5-point road fave. The Gators, who have seen the 'over' go 9-2 in their last 11 games, will be home 'dogs for the first time in a long time Saturday night vs. top-ranked Kentucky.

-- Seton Hall has been a money maker with a 15-6 spread record, going 8-2 versus the number at home. However, the Pirates are 2-4 ATS in their last six outings. They get Marquette (2/7) and Georgetown (2/10) at home in their next two contests.

-- DePaul took the money in its first seven Big East games before losing three in a row both SU and ATS. The Blue Demons snapped out of that funk with Tuesday's 75-62 win over Seton Hall as 2.5-point home 'dogs. They'll be healthy puppies in their next three games that are all on the road.

-- After Wednesday's 60-58 home win over Ohio St., Purdue has won four in a row and five of its last six both SU and ATS. The Boilermakers are 9-2 ATS at home and the 'under' has connected at an 8-1 clip in their games in West Lafayette.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB Mid-Major Money: Big profits from NCAAB small conferences
By DOC'S SPORTS

Some of the best betting value in college basketball is hiding beyond the power conferences. Each week Doc’s Sports takes a look at the little programs that could help you make big cash.

Team to watch: Yale Bulldogs (15-6 SU, 8-3-1 ATS)

Upcoming: vs. Dartmouth on Friday, vs. Harvard on Saturday

Yale sits atop the Ivy League at 4-0 in conference play (15-6 overall) and it has won five games in a row (3-1 ATS) dating back to Jan. 10. Leading scorer Justin Sears has surpassed his average (14.7 ppg) in four straight outings and is 26 for 41 from the floor in his last three.

This weekend’s opponents, Dartmouth and Harvard, are both dealing with issues. A huge cheating scandal hit Dartmouth in early January and three basketball players were among 64 offending students. Of the three, only Brandon McDonnell (almost seven minutes per game) saw any real playing time, but the Big Green are 3-5 (1-4 ATS) since handing out the indefinite suspensions. Meanwhile, Harvard big man Kenyatta Smith (4.9 ppg, 3.4 ppg, 1.5 bpg) has missed the past four games with a leg injury and is questionable for this weekend.

Yale is 8-3-1 ATS on the season. Dartmouth is 2-8 ATS and Harvard is 5-7 ATS (2-4 ATS on the road).

Team to beware: East Tennessee State Buccaneers (13-8 SU, 4-11-1 ATS)

Upcoming: vs. Wofford on Thursday, vs. Samford on Saturday

East Tennessee State’s 2014-15 campaign got off to an inauspicious start when 6’6’’, 250-pound forward Ron Giplaye went down with a season-ending knee injury in early December. Giplaye had played at least 13 minutes in each of his six games and had turned in a 10-point, nine-rebound performance in a win over UNC-Asheville.

ETSU is 4-11-1 ATS, including 1-5 ATS at home. It is 1-7 ATS in its last eight games, a stretch that already includes ATS losses to upcoming opponents Samford and Wofford. The Bucs edged host Samford 76-74 and fell at Wofford 72-64. Senior guard Rashawn Rembert has scored in single-digits in each of the last three games and has shot a combined 6 for 23 from the floor in those three.

Samford is 12-6-1 ATS this season, having covered the spread in each of its past three contests. Wofford is 4-1 ATS in its last five overall.

Total team: Canisius Golden Griffins (12-9 SU, 4-6 O/U)

Upcoming: at Manhattan on Friday, at Monmouth on Sunday

The Golden Griffins have not scored more than 67 points in any of their last four contests, a span that includes a 46-point performance in a loss at Rider on Jan. 24. They had posted at least 76 points in their previous three.

Canisius won’t be helped by the absence of Phil Valenti (10.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 2.6 apg). The sophomore forward sustained an ankle injury last Friday and is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks.

The under is 6-4 in games involving the Golden Griffins this season, including 3-1 when they venture away from home. Three of their last four games have stayed under the total. Canisius’ previous meeting with Manhattan on Jan. 4 was a defensive battle in which both teams scored fewer than 30 points in the second half as the Jaspers survived 63-60.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

College Basketball: Streaks, Tips, Notes -

Louisville at Virginia February 7, 07:00 EST

Virginia rebounding from it's first blemish of the season defeating UNC in Chapel Hill this past Monday return to John Paul Jones Arena to host Louisville. Cavaliers will not only be looking to halt Cardinals 4-0 (3-1 ATS) run but also looking to make amends for last Saturday's loss to Duke which snapped a 21-game home win streak. Betting trends line up well for the highly motivated Cavaliers as they've cashed 14 of 16 home lined games and hit the hardwood a sharp 18-5-2 against the betting line facing an ACC opponent. On the other side, Cardinals have not fared well against the betting line posting a terrible 7-12-2 record including 4-5 ATS vs the ACC.


Georgetown at Villanova February 7, 02:00 EST

Villanova Wildcats (20-2, 14-7 ATS) and Georgetown Hoyas (15-7, 8-10-1 ATS) square off for the second time this season. In the earlier meeting Hoyas spanked Wildcats 78-58 cashing as 4-point home favorites. Wildcats a balanced team with six players averaging 9 or more points/game net a combined 75.0 PPG on 46.2% shooting. Defensively, Wildcats are solid allowing opponents 40.8% shooting and 60.2 points/game. The Hoyas drop 71.8 per/game through the iron with Smith-Rivera (15.8), Joshua Smith (11.9) the only two scoring more than 9 points/game. Just like the visitors, Hoyas have their own brand of stingy defense allowing opponents 64.8 points/game on 39.7% from the field. The lean is towards revenge minded Wildcats, The home team in this series owns a smart 5-0 ATS streak. Wildcats 4-1 ATS vs the conference have cashed 8 of 11 on home court, Hoyas enter 4-9-1 ATS on the road vs a team with a winning home record and have a 4-10 ATS skid vs Big East opponents.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Dayton won six of last eight games with George Washington; home side won last five regular season meetings- Flyers beat GW twice in last four A-14 tourneys. Dayton split its last four road games, losing last two on foreign soil by 17-2 points, scoring 62 ppg. A-14 home favorites of 5 or less points are 9-2 vs spread. Colonials lost last two games, are 1-3 as a home favorite, with home wins by 3-3-10-15 points- they're 2-5 against spread as an A-14 favorite this year.

Yale is 4-0, has one-game lead over Harvard team they play tomorrow in huge game, since Ivy has no postseason tourney. Yale won four of its last six games with Dartmouth, but can't look ahead, since Big Green beat the Bulldogs on Senior Night here LY. Big Green is 1-3 in Ivy, with losses by 11-7-11 points; they've forced turnovers on 26.9% of possesssions, tops in Ivy so far. Ivy League home favorites of 7+ points are 0-4 vs spread.

Brown is 0-4 in Ivy, 1-3 vs spread, losing by 18-4-8-21 points; they've lost their best player (transfer), are shooting just 24.1% from arc in four league games. Harvard has big game at Yale tomorrow; they're 3-1 so far in Ivy, winning by 11-3-25 points, with all three of those wins on road. Crimson won its last ten games with Brown, but two of last four went to OT, including LY's visit here. Ivy League home underdogs are 2-5.

Cornell split its first four Ivy games, allowing 49 or less points in three of four games; losing two of three at home. Big Red lost its last three games with Penn by 4-7-8 points; they're forcing turnovers 25.4% of time, and holding foes to 26.7% from arc. Quakers are turning ball over 24.4% of time in league games; they lost two of first three Ivy games, scoring 48.0 ppg in last two games, losing only road game by four. Ivy League home favorites of less than 7 points are 3-0 vs spread.

Princeton won two of first three Ivy games but they were all home tilts; Tigers are 0-6 in true road games, with four of six losses by 10+ points. Columbia split its first four games, losing two of three at home; Lions are making 40.2% from arc in league, but turning ball over 22.9% of the time. Princeton won nine of last ten series games, winning last visits here. Ivy League home teams are 4-3 in games with spread of less than 5 points.

Iona (-5) won 86-72 at Siena Jan 4, making 11-25 on arc, 62.1% inside arc in game they led by 10 at half. Gaels won their last three games, are 3-3 as MAAC home favorite, winning home games by 13-8-3-16-23-7- they won their last game in OT. Saints are 3-2 in last five games, 1-2 as road underdog, losing road games by 12-34-8 points, with wins at Fairfield, Niagara. Three of Siena's six MAAC losses are by 14+. MAAC double digit home favorites are 3-6 vs spread.

Manhattan (+4) won 63-60 at Canisius Jan 4, despite having -7 turnover ratio (15-8); Griffins made just 3-21 from arc, but shot 54.5% inside arc. Jaspers won/covered last three games, are 4-2 as home favorites, winning home games by four of five home wins by 7+- they lost to Rider at home. Canisius is 4-2 SU on road, 5-1 vs spread, 2-1 as dog, losing at Iona by 3, at Rider by 13. MAAC home favorites of less than 5 points are 7-13.

Marist won/covered last three games after starting 0-9 in MAAC; they're 6-1 vs spread in last seven games, and won 65-61 (+4.5) at Niagara week ago tonight, outscoring Eagles 7-2 in last 1:18. Foxes shot 57% inside arc that night. Marist is 1-0 as MAAC favorite, Niagara 2-3 as underdog on road, losing road games by 10-9-11-23 points, with win at St Peter's back on Nov 20th. MAAC home favorites of less than 5 points are 7-13.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

DAYTON (17 - 4) at GEORGE WASHINGTON (16 - 6) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DAYTON is 2-0 against the spread versus GEORGE WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
GEORGE WASHINGTON is 1-1 straight up against DAYTON over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

DARTMOUTH (8 - 10) at YALE (15 - 6) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
DARTMOUTH is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all games this season.
DARTMOUTH is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
DARTMOUTH is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) after scoring 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
YALE is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
YALE is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
YALE is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) after allowing 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DARTMOUTH is 3-1 against the spread versus YALE over the last 3 seasons
YALE is 2-2 straight up against DARTMOUTH over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

HARVARD (13 - 5) at BROWN (9 - 12) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
HARVARD is 95-125 ATS (-42.5 Units) after a conference game since 1997.
BROWN is 23-39 ATS (-19.9 Units) in home games when playing with 5 or 6 days rest since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
BROWN is 3-1 against the spread versus HARVARD over the last 3 seasons
HARVARD is 4-0 straight up against BROWN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

PENNSYLVANIA (6 - 11) at CORNELL (10 - 10) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
CORNELL is 70-37 ATS (+29.3 Units) after scoring 60 points or less since 1997.
CORNELL is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PENNSYLVANIA is 73-46 ATS (+22.4 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1997.
PENNSYLVANIA is 34-14 ATS (+18.6 Units) in road games versus poor offensive teams - scoring <=64 points/game after 15+ games since 1997.
PENNSYLVANIA is 43-21 ATS (+19.9 Units) in road games versus poor offensive teams - scoring <=64 points/game since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
CORNELL is 2-1 against the spread versus PENNSYLVANIA over the last 3 seasons
PENNSYLVANIA is 3-1 straight up against CORNELL over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

PRINCETON (9 - 10) at COLUMBIA (10 - 8) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
PRINCETON is 85-60 ATS (+19.0 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
PRINCETON is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points since 1997.
PRINCETON is 69-41 ATS (+23.9 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
PRINCETON is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) in road games versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game since 1997.
COLUMBIA is 16-30 ATS (-17.0 Units) in home games off a win against a conference rival since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLUMBIA is 2-2 against the spread versus PRINCETON over the last 3 seasons
PRINCETON is 3-1 straight up against COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

SIENA (9 - 12) at IONA (16 - 6) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
IONA is 41-66 ATS (-31.6 Units) in February games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
IONA is 4-1 against the spread versus SIENA over the last 3 seasons
IONA is 5-0 straight up against SIENA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

CANISIUS (12 - 9) at MANHATTAN (11 - 10) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
MANHATTAN is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
MANHATTAN is 34-19 ATS (+13.1 Units) after a conference game over the last 3 seasons.
MANHATTAN is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
MANHATTAN is 19-7 ATS (+11.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 3 seasons.
MANHATTAN is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 3 seasons.
MANHATTAN is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game over the last 3 seasons.
CANISIUS is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CANISIUS is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in road games after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
CANISIUS is 37-19 ATS (+16.1 Units) in road games revenging a home loss vs opponent since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
MANHATTAN is 4-0 against the spread versus CANISIUS over the last 3 seasons
MANHATTAN is 4-1 straight up against CANISIUS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

NIAGARA (4 - 17) at MARIST (4 - 18) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
NIAGARA is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) after a conference game this season.
NIAGARA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
NIAGARA is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) after allowing 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MARIST is 3-3 against the spread versus NIAGARA over the last 3 seasons
NIAGARA is 4-2 straight up against MARIST over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________________________________________ ______

HIGH POINT (17 - 6) at COASTAL CAROLINA (16 - 7) - 2/6/2015, 7:00 PM

Top Trends for this game.
HIGH POINT is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
HIGH POINT is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HIGH POINT is 2-1 straight up against COASTAL CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Trends

7:00 PM
NIAGARA vs. MARIST
Niagara is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Marist
Niagara is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Marist is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Niagara
Marist is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home

7:00 PM
HARVARD vs. BROWN
Harvard is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Brown
Harvard is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Brown
Brown is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Brown is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:00 PM
CANISIUS vs. MANHATTAN
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Canisius's last 5 games when playing on the road against Manhattan
Canisius is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games when playing on the road against Manhattan
Manhattan is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
Manhattan is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games at home

7:00 PM
SIENA vs. IONA
Siena is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Siena is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Iona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Iona's last 5 games at home
Iona is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:00 PM
DARTMOUTH vs. YALE
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Dartmouth's last 8 games when playing on the road against Yale
Dartmouth is 1-14 SU in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Yale
Yale is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Yale is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home

7:00 PM
DAYTON vs. GEORGE WASHINGTON
Dayton is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against George Washington
Dayton is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
George Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
George Washington is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home

7:00 PM
PRINCETON vs. COLUMBIA
Princeton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Columbia
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Princeton's last 7 games when playing on the road against Columbia
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Columbia's last 12 games when playing Princeton
Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Princeton

8:00 PM
PENNSYLVANIA vs. CORNELL
Pennsylvania is 4-17 SU in its last 21 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Pennsylvania's last 10 games when playing on the road against Cornell
Cornell is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Pennsylvania
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cornell's last 5 games when playing Pennsylvania

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Odds and Predictions: Friday, February 6 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

You know how when the NBA releases its schedule in the summer that sites like ESPN or SI.com or NBA.com come out with a list of Top 10 games? Those are usually dead on because there are so few surprise teams in the Association. You pretty much know who will be a title contender. Well, I guarantee you that Friday’s Golden State at Atlanta matchup wasn’t on any Top 10 list, but it’s the clear game of the season thus far — and sadly not on national television. A Hawks-Warriors NBA Finals matchup is priced at +700 at, second to Cavs-Warriors (+500). Here’s a look at every game on a busy Friday night.

Knicks at Nets (-6, 191)

New York last played Tuesday and lost by 11 at home to Boston. Carmelo Anthony had 21 points, but the Knicks played without forward Amare Stoudemire and guard Pablo Prigioni. Both could return here. Stoudemire will be on a minutes limit of about 20 the rest of the season when he does get back. Brooklyn followed a surprising home win over the Clippers on Monday with perhaps an even more surprising 109-93 win in Toronto on Wednesday. It’s the team’s first back-to-back wins since a three-game run from Dec. 29 to Jan. 2. The Nets also have scored at least 100 points in a season-high four straight games. The Nets are 2-0 this season vs. the Knicks, holding New York under 100 points in each. The Knicks haven’t lost a season series to their neighbors since the 2006-07 season. Brook Lopez has averaged 21.5 points and 8.5 rebounds for the Nets in the two games. Anthony has averaged 19.5 points.

Key trends: The favorite is 5-1 in the past six meetings. The “over/under” has gone over in the past four in Brooklyn.

Early lean: Nets and over.



Cavaliers at Pacers (+6.5, 196)

Potential letdown game here for Cleveland as it hosted the Clippers on Thursday. If the Cavs won that, they could tie the franchise record of 13 straight wins here. Indiana will try for its first two-game winning streak since right before Christmas as the Pacers beat visiting Detroit 114-109 on Wednesday. Point guard George Hill returned to the starting lineup and had 20 points. The Pacers shot a season-high 59.7 percent. Indiana lost the only meeting with the Cavs, 109-97 in Cleveland on Nov. 29. Kevin Love had a season-high 28 points, while Kyrie Irving had 24 and LeBron James 19. The Cavs jumped out to a 22-6 lead. Roy Hibbert missed that one for the Pacers.

Key trends: The Pacers are 0-4 ATS in their past four vs. teams with a winning record. The under is 5-1 in Cleveland’s past six in the second of a back-to-back. The home team has covered the past five meetings.

Early lean: It really depends on what Cleveland does Thursday.



Lakers at Magic (-4.5, 203)

L.A. has lost two straight. It was beaten 113-105 in overtime at Milwaukee on Wednesday. Carlos Boozer had a season-high 28 points for the Lakers, who lost for the 11th time in 12 games — eight in a row on the road. Nick Young was back in the lineup after missing Sunday’s loss to the Knicks and had 16 points. Starting forward Jordan Hill sat again, and don’t look for him until after the All-Star Break. Orlando lost its 10th straight on Wednesday, 110-103 in San Antonio. All five Magic starters scored in double figures, but the Orlando bench was outscored 41-17. Rookie forward Aaron Gordon was a late scratch after experiencing pain in his left foot during the morning shootaround. He missed 31 games early this season because of a broken bone in that foot. Also, Orlando coach Jacque Vaughn was fired Thursday just as I was sending this story in. Los Angeles beat the visiting Magic 101-84 on Jan. 9 when Kobe Bryant was out resting. Jeremy Lin had 18 points and Boozer 12 points and 14 rebounds. Nikola Vucevic had 14 points and 11 rebounds for Orlando.

Key trends: The Lakers have covered one of their past seven road games. Orlando is 0-5 ATS in its past five at home. The over is 7-1 in Orlando’s past eight at home.

Early lean: Coach firings usually get a team’s attention. Take Orlando and the over.



Clippers at Raptors (-2, 210)

L.A. could be in the same boat as Cleveland here, especially if the Clippers upset the Cavaliers on Thursday. Then I’d bet big on Toronto here. However, the Raptors have lost two straight at home in rather ugly fashion. They were beaten by 16 by the Nets on Wednesday. Also, DeMar DeRozan was ejected late in the fourth quarter for a Flagrant 2 foul, and that could mean a one-game suspension unless the NBA changes the call, which it can. The Clippers lost at home to Toronto 110-98 on Dec. 27. Kyle Lowry outplayed Chris Paul as Lowry had 25 points, seven assists and three steals. Paul was just 3-for-12 from the field for 10 points and was minus-20. The win ended L.A.’s eight-game home winning streak.

Key trends: The Clippers are 1-6 ATS in their past seven in the second of a back-to-back. Toronto has failed to cover seven straight at home vs. teams with a winning home record. The under is 8-0 in the Raptors’ past eight home games vs. teams with a winning road record.

Early lean: Raptors if DeRozan plays.



Warriors at Hawks (+1, 214)

How can ESPN or NBA TV not pick this game up? The Warriors won their third straight in blowout fashion on Wednesday, 128-114 against Dallas, rallying from a 22-point deficit. Stephen Curry had a season-high 51 points (26 in third quarter), making him and Klay Thompson the first teammates since 1993-94 with 50-point games in the same season. Curry also had his second career game with 10 3-pointers. Atlanta’s 19-game winning streak, the longest in the NBA this season (Golden State had a 16-game run), ended on Monday, but the Hawks bounced back with a 105-96 win over Washington on Wednesday. So much for Atlanta going into a minor funk. It was Atlanta’s 11th straight home win, and the Hawks are 19-0 this season at home when leading at halftime. This is the first meeting of the season with Atlanta going to Oakland on March 18. Will both be leading the conference then as well? The Hawks have such a big lead over Cleveland that they probably will. The Warriors are the better team but have a lot better teams chasing them.

Key trends: The Warriors have covered six of their past seven vs. teams with a winning record. Atlanta has covered its past seven at home vs. teams with a winning road record. The over is 5-1 in Atlanta’s past six.

Early lean: No respect for Hawks as a home dog. I’ll take the points. Go under.



76ers at Celtics (-8.5, 191.5)

Boston won its second straight Wednesday, 104-100 at home vs. Denver. For the second time in three games Jared Sullinger was benched for being late, this time for a shootaround. But Sullinger hit two free throws with 22.8 seconds left to break a 100-all tie. The 76ers also come off a win over Denver, 105-98 on Tuesday. Michael Carter-Williams had 15 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds. Philadelphia dropped the first two meetings this season with Boston at home, both by double digits. The 76ers were 2-0 in Boston last year, however.

Key trends: The road team has covered six of the past seven meetings. The under is 9-0 in Philly’s past nine games vs. Atlantic Division foes.

Early lean: Sixers are playing much better. Take the points and go under.



Nuggets at Pistons (-5.5, 202.5)

Denver has lost four straight and frankly hasn’t looked good in any of them. Ty Lawson led the Nuggets with 23 points and eight assists in Wednesday’s four-point loss in Boston. Backup guard Jameer Nelson missed that game because of a strained Achilles’ tendon. Detroit’s two-game winning streak ended with a 114-109 loss in Indiana on Wednesday despite 18 points and 16 rebounds from Andre Drummond and the team hitting 12 of 24 3-pointers. The Pistons opened the season with an 89-79 loss in Denver.

Key trends: The Nuggets are 1-5 ATS in their past six vs. the East. Detroit has covered five straight at home. The over is 8-1 in Denver’s past nine vs. teams with a losing record.

Early lean: Pistons and over.



Bucks at Rockets (-6, 199.5)

Houston beat visiting Chicago 101-90 on Wednesday again without Dwight Howard. James Harden scored 27 points, including 13 straight at one point. Despite no Howard, Houston outscored Chicago 50-28 in the paint and had eight blocks. Milwaukee won its fifth straight Wednesday, 113-105 in OT against the Lakers. O.J. Mayo hit a tough 3-pointer from the corner to send it to OT. Brandon Knight returned from missing a game and had 24 points, including 12 in overtime. The Bucks had four guys with at least 20 points for the first time in five years. Milwaukee lost at home to Houston 117-103 on Nov. 29. Howard missed that too, but Harden had 34.

Key trends: The Bucks have covered six of their past seven games. Houston has covered seven of its past eight at home. The underdog is 6-0 ATS in the past six meetings.

Early lean: Bucks and under.



Grizzlies at Timberwolves (+7.5, 193)

Memphis won its eighth in a row on Wednesday, 100-90 in Utah. Zach Randolph had yet another double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Top reserve Vince Carter did not play due to a left foot tendon injury. He’s questionable for this game. I doubt he plays since the Grizzlies don’t need him to beat Minnesota. The Wolves do come off a 102-101 home win over Miami on Wednesday. Minnesota’s not going to be that bad the rest of the way now that some guys are healthy. Forward Shabazz Muhammad (oblique) sat out again, but Coach Flip. Saunders estimated Muhammad could be back as soon as Friday.

Key trends: The favorite is 6-2 ATS in the past eight meetings. The under is 7-0 in the past seven in Minnesota.

Early lean: Grizzlies and under.



Pelicans at Thunder (TBA)

No line here again because of Kevin Durant (sprained toe). He missed his second straight game on Wednesday, a 102-91 win at these Pelicans. Russell Westbrook dominated with 45 points (tied career high), six rebounds and six assists as OKC got back over .500. Westbrook is averaging 35.8 points per 36 minutes this season when Durant isn’t on the floor with him. That number drops to 20.2 per 36 when Durant is. Westbrook, Klay Thompson and James Harden are the only guys with at least three 40-point games this year. Anthony Davis had 23 points and eight rebounds for the Pelicans.

Key trends: The underdog has covered four straight in this series. The under is 7-3 in the past 10 in OKC.

Early lean: Wait on Durant.



Jazz at Suns (-7.5, 204.5)

Let’s see how much Phoenix has in the tank for this game after playing in Portland on Thursday. Utah has lost two straight, falling 100-90 at home to Memphis on Wednesday. Trey Burke led the Jazz with 21 points while Enes Kanter had 16 points and 10 rebounds. Utah handed Phoenix one of its worst losses of the season, 118-91 in Salt Lake City on Nov. 1. Derrick Favors dominated with 32 points and nine rebounds.

Key trends: Utah has covered five of the past seven meetings. The under is 5-2 in the past seven in Phoenix.

Early lean: Jazz and over.



Heat at Spurs (-11, 186.5)

The previous four NBA seasons this would have been one of those games you wouldn’t miss. Amazing what a difference one player — i.e. LeBron James — can make. Miami lost its second straight on Wednesday, 102-102 in Minnesota. The Heat again played without Dwayne Wade and you won’t see him here. Hassan Whiteside went off again with 24 points and 20 rebounds. He was the first Heat player with a 20-20 game since Shaq in 2004. San Antonio concludes a six-game homestand here and off a seven-point win over Orlando on Wednesday. The Spurs are now fully healthy for the first time all season as Marco Belinelli returned for that game after missing the previous 18.

Key trends: Miami is 6-2 ATS in its past eight after a loss. The Spurs haven’t covered their past six. The under is 11-2 in Miami’s past 13 after scoring 100 points or more in its previous game.

Early lean: Heat and over.