Friday 4/1/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Magic (32-43) at Bucks (31-44)

Date: April 01, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

It's too late to push them into the playoffs but the Orlando Magic have been clicking offensively in their three consecutive victories.

The Magic will try to keep rolling while claiming a rare road win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.

Orlando (32-43) topped 110 points and shot at least 53 percent for the third straight game Thursday in a 114-94 rout of Indiana that ended a six-game road skid. The Magic have averaged 121.3 points on 56.3 percent shooting during their three-game overall run, 20.5 more than in their first 72 games.

Evan Fournier had 25 points on 10-of-14 shooting and Nikola Vucevic scored 24 while making 12 of 15 in his first action since March 4. Vucevic missed 13 games because of an injured groin.

"You don't want to quit and give up. That's not what you do as a competitor even though you're technically playing for nothing," Vucevic said. "We have to have pride as athletes and compete every night. I think we've been doing that."

Orlando will next seek to win four straight for the first time since its season-best five-game run Nov. 25-Dec. 3. The Magic will also try to top 110 points for the fourth game in a row for the first time since April 1995, and had a franchise-best nine-game streak in that same season.

They'll also try to record just their second victory over their last eight visits to Milwaukee. They lost 107-100 in their only other game there this season Jan. 26.

The Bucks (31-44) allowed an average of 109.7 points in the final three of five straight losses in March, a season high-tying skid that was snapped with a 105-94 victory against Phoenix on Wednesday.

Milwaukee forced 24 turnovers and limited the Suns to 20.8 percent shooting from 3-point range. The Bucks allowed Charlotte to make 16 of 29 shots from beyond the arc and forced just 10 turnovers in a 115-91 loss Saturday.

"The last two days we made a conscious effort to play 4-on-4, which is harder. You take a guy off the floor and be competitive, where now it's even harder to guard the 3-point line in a pick-and-roll situation," coach Jason Kidd said. "The guys did a really good job the last two days getting ready to guard the 3-point line.

"The league is going that way, and we have to get better at it."

The Magic have split two games against the Bucks this season, winning 114-90 at home Nov. 27. Elfrid Payton scored a team-best 22 points but was held to eight in the loss in Milwaukee.

The Bucks' Khris Middleton, who scored 26 points Wednesday, had 25 in the home win over Orlando. Giannis Antetokounmpo matched that output while making 12 of 16 shots, and the 6-foot-11 forward is currently preparing to serve as Milwaukee's primary ball handler for next season. He averaged 18.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 15 games in March.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Timberwolves (25-50) at Jazz (37-38)

Date: April 01, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Somehow, the Minnesota Timberwolves have a say in how the back end of the Western Conference playoff race shakes out.

The Utah Jazz already took advantage of that wrinkle last weekend and will try to double up with their seventh victory in nine games against the visiting Timberwolves on Friday night.

With seven games left and the race for the West's Nos. 6-9 spots jam-packed, the far-off Timberwolves (25-50) draw matchups in the final week and a half against each team vying for the final three playoff spots: Utah (37-38), Dallas, Portland and Houston.

The Jazz closed a 3-2 road trip with Saturday's 93-84 win at Minnesota and hope to finish a homestand 2-1 with their third straight victory in this four-game season series.

Utah went 8-0 in March against teams with losing records but closed the month with a stinging loss to the league's best team, 103-96 in overtime to Golden State on Wednesday. The Jazz held the league's highest-scoring team to 89 points through regulation but missed 10 of 14 free throws in the fourth quarter before falling flat in the extra period.

It snapped Utah's four-game home winning streak.

'We're pretty frustrated right now, but we've got seven more games,' said Rodney Hood, who had 20 points. 'If we would have won, it was one win. This is one loss. ... The biggest thing we can't do is feel deflated and (have) it carry over to the next game against Minnesota.'

Gordon Hayward led the way with 21 points and Rudy Gobert grabbed 18 rebounds, giving him 37 in the last two games. Derrick Favors had 15 points and seven boards before leaving in the third quarter with right knee soreness. He is questionable for Friday.

It's no surprise the defensive end kept the Jazz within striking distance of the high-powered Warriors. Utah, second in the league in points against (96.2 per game), has held opponents to an average of 89.5 points on 43.1 percent shooting during an 8-3 stretch.

The Timberwolves averaged 89.3 points in the first three matchups - top scorer Andrew Wiggins averaged 11.7 while shooting 30 percent - and they were held to 38.1 percent shooting in the latest meeting.

They have one of the highest-scoring averages in the league since Feb. 22 at 106.7 points and were fresh off Monday's 121-116 win over Phoenix before going cold in Wednesday's 99-79 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Karl-Anthony Towns, who has averaged 23.7 points and 11 rebounds against Utah, made 7 of 13 shots and finished with 16 points and 11 boards, but the other four Minnesota starters totaled 19 points on 6-of-30 shooting. Wiggins finished with seven points and six turnovers before leaving with a lacerated chin, Zach LaVine went scoreless on six shots and the Timberwolves shot 34.5 percent overall.

Coach Sam Mitchell didn't take questions from the media for the first time all season, instead blasting his team with a 31-second rant.

'Like I told them, I wish (the media) would stop asking me questions about how good they can be," Mitchell said. "We have 25 wins. They still have to learn how to play basketball. They still got to grow up. They still got to understand, they played a team that's a real playoff team (Wednesday night). You saw what happened.

'We're not ready yet. So I wish they would stop reading the newspapers, stop talking to their friends because we're not good enough to just show up and play. That was the worst game we've played all year.'

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Heat (43-31) at Kings (30-45)

Date: April 01, 2016 10:00 PM EDT

The Sacramento Kings just delivered a serious blow to an Eastern Conference playoff hopeful, though it likely cost them their best player for a game.

The Miami Heat will try to take advantage after their own loss as they continue to push for a division title while extending their dominance in this series Friday night at Sacramento.

Sacramento (30-45) won for the third time in four games with Wednesday's 120-111 victory over fading Washington. The price was leading scorer and rebounder DeMarcus Cousins.

With the game in hand, Cousins and Rajon Rondo received technical fouls for sarcastically clapping toward an official with 6.7 seconds left following a turnover from failing to inbound the ball. It was Cousins' league-leading 16th technical, which brings an automatic one-game suspension if upheld.

Rondo was ejected with a second technical after a discussion with the official.

"Sometimes the game isn't about the players on the court. It's about ... ," Rondo hesitated, " ... fill in the blank."

It will be about who's not there on Friday as Cousins is likely to miss his 13th game. The Kings are 2-10 without the two-time All-Star, who had 29 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, five steals and four blocks against the Wizards while playing through lingering knee and foot injuries.

Cousins - who said he would also sit out Saturday's contest in Denver - missed a 116-109 loss to Miami on Nov. 19 due to a suspension for hitting Atlanta center Al Horford with a forearm.

While Cousins' impact on the court is unquestioned, it's had little effect on the results of this series. The Heat (43-31) have won 21 of the last 23 against the Kings, including eight victories in 10 games at Sacramento. Miami is 9-1 against the Kings since Cousins entered the league in 2010-11.

The Heat can sweep the series for the seventh time in eight seasons while keeping pace in a tight race for the Southeast Division title and a top-four seed in the East. They are tied with Charlotte, one game back of the Hawks in the division.

Miami coughed up a chance to inch a half-game closer by opening a three-game road trip with Wednesday's 102-100 overtime loss to the woeful Los Angeles Lakers. The Heat committed 18 turnovers while going 3 of 17 from 3-point range and hitting 15 of 26 free throws.

'It was just total disrespect to the opponents tonight,' said Dwyane Wade, who had 26 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. 'Those guys are good players, and you have to play them the same way you play an opponent you fear. We didn't do that, and that's why they got the win.'

Miami closes the season with five of eight games on the road, where the Heat fell to 18-18. Sacramento is 17-20 at Sleep Train Arena but has won three straight there.

'The road is real. It doesn't matter who you play," Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said.

Wade had 24 points, six assists and five rebounds against the Kings in November. Chris Bosh (blood clots) and Tyler Johnson (shoulder) combined for 42, but neither will play Friday.

Rondo recorded 14 points, 18 assists and nine rebounds in that game.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Celtics (43-32) at Warriors (68-7)

Date: April 01, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

The Golden State Warriors are now 6-0 in overtime after surviving another close call as they close in on the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls.

The Boston Celtics know all about how hard it is to win a tight affair against the defending champs.

The Warriors needed two overtimes to edge the Celtics back in December and are now five wins shy of a record 73 overall as they seek their 55th straight regular-season home victory Friday night.

Golden State (68-7) needed a tying 3-pointer from Klay Thompson with 15 seconds remaining in regulation before Stephen Curry scored six straight points in overtime and finished with 31 in Wednesday's 103-96 victory at Utah.

The Warriors were playing the second game of a back-to-back set after winning at home over Washington the night before. Rest wasn't a priority since they are now intently focused on surpassing the Bulls' 72-10 mark set 20 seasons ago.

'We realize we can make history and that helps because it keeps you focused every game,' Thompson said. 'You don't want to lose and get this far and not go for it. We have a young youthful team and a great mix of vets that know how to pace themselves. We put a lot on the young guys' shoulders and go out there and perform every night and that's great."

Golden State has seven games left to reach 73 wins and has a five-game lead on San Antonio for the Western Conference's top seed. While the Spurs are resting players down the stretch as they usually do under Gregg Popovich, Warriors coach Steve Kerr isn't planning to do the same with history on the line.

'Our team wants it,' Kerr said. 'They've made it pretty clear, so what we're doing is listening to them and trusting them that if they're injured, they're going to let us know. And if that's the case, we'll give them a rest. And if they feel like they're perfectly capable of getting out there and playing and that's what they want to do, then that's what we'll do.'

Golden State already made history with its record 24-0 start that was capped by a 124-119 double-overtime victory at Boston on Dec. 11. Curry finished with 38 points, 11 boards and eight assists despite an uneven night that saw him make 9 of 27 shots and establish a season high with eight turnovers.

Kelly Olynyk scored a season-high 28 points to lead the Celtics and the backcourt of Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley combined for 37, with Thomas contributing 10 assists.

Another entertaining, fast-paced contest should be on tap since the Warriors are second in the league with 101.9 possessions per 48 minutes and the Celtics are third at 101.1. Boston (43-32) is eager for the challenge.

"It's fun," Bradley told the Celtics' official Twitter feed. "That's what I play basketball for every single night - to go up against the best players."

Boston is 11-6 in the second half of back-to-back sets and comes to town seeking to avoid a three-game slide after falling 116-109 to Portland on Thursday. Thomas and Bradley combined for 42 points.

Forward Jae Crowder returned to the starting lineup after missing eight games with a sprained right ankle and finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Golden State has taken five straight in this series.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Wizards (36-39) at Suns (20-55)

Date: April 01, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

Given where they stand with time winding down in the postseason chase, the last thing anyone would expect the Washington Wizards to be missing is a sense of urgency.

Perhaps that's why the latest troubling loss caused Bradley Beal to vent in frustration.

After taking another hit to their playoff chances, the Wizards hope to take advantage of an opportune matchup Friday night when their road trip continues against the Phoenix Suns.

A five-game winning streak had given Washington's playoff hopes some life as the club moved within 1 1/2 games of the Eastern Conference's final playoff spot on March 21.

The Wizards (36-39), though, have since dropped four of five to fall further behind with just seven games remaining. Beal seemed to have enough after they allowed Sacramento to shoot 56 percent in Wednesday's 120-111 defeat to the sub-.500 Kings.

'It felt like we gave up,' the guard said after finishing with 24 points. 'We're just not hungry enough. If guys don't want to play they need to sit down. I'm not giving up yet.'

Washington has allowed 112.8 points per game over its last five. Opponents have shot 19 for 43 from 3-point range in the past two after the club held the Los Angeles Lakers to 7 for 28 in a 101-88 win to open this five-game trip.

'You should win every game if you score 111 points," coach Randy Wittman said.

The Wizards hope to take a step forward in that area against one of the NBA's worst shooting teams. Phoenix has shot 41.9 percent while averaging 97.9 points over its last eight games.

The Suns (20-55) shot 5 for 24 from 3-point range and committed 24 turnovers in Wednesday's 105-94 loss at Milwaukee.

P.J. Tucker had 20 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists in the team's fourth consecutive loss, while Alex Len added 17 points and 15 boards and Devin Booker scored 18.

Booker has to be a concern for Washington after he averaged 22.4 points in March for the highest-scoring month by a Phoenix rookie since Walter Davis (25.1) in March 1978.

'Obviously, we're not in the playoffs, so we're starting to build for next year and setting the foundation of how our team is going to play,' Booker said.

Markieff Morris will return to Phoenix for the first time since a tumultuous 4 1/2-year run with the Suns ended with his trade to Washington at the deadline. The forward had requested a deal last summer in the wake of his twin brother, Marcus, being shipped to Detroit.

The last straw may have been in December when Morris tossed a towel at then-coach Jeff Hornacek in the fourth quarter of a loss to Denver. He's averaged 14.1 points in his last seven games for the Wizards while dealing with a calf injury.

Morris was on the other side of this matchup Dec. 4 when Beal led Washington with a season-high 34 points in a 109-106 home win.

John Wall contributed 17 points and nine assists but also committed seven turnovers. The All-Star point guard has reached double digits in assists in 11 consecutive games, but he's shooting 36.5 percent on the trip and has gone 8 for 30 in the last two games for 22 points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Odds: Friday, April 1, 2016 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

So Friday is the first day of the final month of the NBA's regular season. And looking at the standings, it's been largely a chalk season thus far. The top four teams in the East are Cleveland, Toronto, Atlanta and Miami. All expected. The only newcomer to the top four from last year's final standings is the Heat; they have taken the place of the ultra-disappointing Chicago Bulls. In the West, you have a top four of Golden State, San Antonio, Oklahoma City and the L.A. Clippers. Completely expected there. Thus the only drama remaining in the final couple of weeks would be the final two spots at the bottom of each conference. Those winners will then be ousted easily the first round of the playoffs.


76ers at Hornets (-15, 208)

Second of a home-and-home between these two. Charlotte won in Philadelphia 100-85 on Tuesday to lead 3-0 in the season series. Nicolas Batum had 19 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists for his second triple-double of the season. Jeremy Lin got the night off with a sore back. It was the Hornets' 13th win in March, a team record for any month. The 76ers lost for the 23rd time in 24 games and played without Nerlens Noel, Jerami Grant and Richaun Holmes.

Key trends: The favorite is 7-3 against the spread in the past 10 meetings. The "over/under" has gone under in Charlotte's past four at home overall.

Early lean: I've said it before that it's tough to sweep these home-and-home series. I don't see Philly winning here but take the points.

Mavericks at Pistons (-5, 207)

Dallas beat the visiting Knicks 91-89 on Wednesday. J.J. Barea had 26 points, including the go-ahead layup with 49.9 seconds remaining. Deron Williams sat out again for Dallas, which means more minutes for Barea. Dirk Nowitzki was just 5-for-23 but did move into 30th place in the league's all-time rebounding list. Detroit beat Oklahoma City 88-82 on Tuesday. Marcus Morris had 24 points. This is the finale of Detroit's franchise-record nine-game homestand. The Pistons are 6-2 on it. Detroit beat Dallas 102-96 on March 9. But the Mavericks have won four straight and six of the last seven matchups in Motown.

Key trends: The Mavericks are 5-2 ATS in their past seven in Detroit. The over is 7-3 in the Pistons' past 10 home games.

Early lean: Pistons and over.

Nets at Knicks (TBA)

Brooklyn was in Cleveland on Thursday and resting Brook Lopez and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. So I would imagine they play here? New York lost a third in a row Wednesday, 91-89 in Dallas. Star rookie Kristaps Porzingis missed the game with a shoulder injury and was to have an MRI on Thursday. So you surely aren't seeing him here and there's a pretty good chance Porzingis will be shut down. Knicks starting point guard Jose Calderon left with a quad injury, so he's probably out a while. New York won the first meeting at home vs. Brooklyn in December but lost both at the Nets.

Key trends: The home team is 4-0 ATS in the past four meetings. The over has hit in all four.

Early lean: Wait on all these guys.

Cavaliers at Hawks (TBA)

First of an ESPN doubleheader and will feature live betting at sportsbooks. Cleveland hosted Brooklyn on Thursday, so you might be on sit-down alert here for a key Cavs player or two. I'd frankly be surprised if at least one starter doesn't sit. Kyrie Irving and/or J.R. Smith were potentially to sit Thursday as both were ill. This is Cleveland's first trip to Atlanta since Game 2 of last season's Eastern Conference Finals. The Hawks' four-game winning streak ended in a 105-97 defeat in Toronto on Wednesday. Atlanta turned the ball over 18 times, leading to 25 Raptors points. These teams have played just once this season, a 109-97 Cavs home win back on Nov. 21.

Key trends: The Cavs are 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The over is 9-3 in the previous 12.

Early lean: I like Atlanta SU here because I know the Cavs will sit someone and Hawks likely won't.

Raptors at Grizzlies (+4.5, 198.5)

Every current franchise in the NBA had won at least 50 games in a season once other than Toronto. The Raptors finally joined that group with a 105-97 home win over Atlanta on Wednesday. DeMar DeRozan scored 26 points, Jonas Valanciunas added 19 points and nine rebounds and Kyle Lowry 17 points, 11 assists and six rebounds. Starting forward Luis Scola missed the game with a sore right knee. Memphis dropped a fourth in a row Wednesday, 109-105 at home to Denver. Zach Randolph was questionable but did play and had 26 points. Toronto beat Memphis 98-85 on Feb. 21. The Grizzlies shot just 3-for-20 from 3-point range.

Key trends: Memphis is 7-0 ATS in its past seven Friday games. The under is 14-2 in Toronto's past 16 vs. teams with a winning record.

Early lean: Raptors and under.

Magic at Bucks (TBA)

Orlando was in Indiana on Thursday and expecting Nik Vucevic to return. He may not play the second of a back-to-back, however. Milwaukee ended a five-game losing streak with a 105-94 victory over Phoenix on Wednesday. Khris Middleton scored nine of his 26 points in the final 7:31. The Bucks had 27 points off Suns turnovers. Milwaukee guard Greivis Vasquez returned after missing 56 games with an ankle injury. He played 12 minutes. Fellow guard Jerryd Bayless suffered a mild hyperextension of his right knee in the first half and did not return. These teams have split two meetings, each winning at home. The Magic have lost six of the last seven at the Bradley Center.

Key trends: The Magic are 12-5 ATS in the past 17 meetings. The under is 5-1 in Milwaukee's past six at home.

Early lean: Like Bucks SU here regardless of Bayless.

Timberwolves at Jazz (TBA)

Minnesota lost 99-79 at home to the Clippers on Wednesday. "That was the worst game we've played all year," coach Sam Mitchell said after. Zach LaVine, who really had been playing well, was scoreless on 0-for-6 shooting. Andrew Wiggins left the game midway through the third quarter after taking a shot to the face. He likely could have returned but there was no need with the game a rout. Utah really should have and deserved to beat Golden State on Wednesday but lost 103-96 in overtime. The Jazz led most of the fourth quarter -- but missed 10 of 14 free throws in the quarter -- before the Warriors tied it late. Shelvin Mack had a potential winner blocked in the final 10 seconds of regulation and Gordon Hayward missed a potential winner in that sequence too. Derrick Favors left the game in the third quarter with right knee soreness and did not return. He's questionable here. Utah leads the season series 2-1 and the Wolves haven't topped 94 points in any of those games. The visiting team has won seven of the last 10 games.

Key trends: The Wolves are 5-1 ATS in their past six in Utah. The under is 8-2 in the Jazz's past 10 overall.

Early lean: Think Jazz will be totally flat after that near-miss vs. Warriors. Take whatever points are given.

Heat at Kings (+7.5, 214)

Miami somehow lost 102-100 in overtime at the bickering Lakers on Wednesday. Dwyane Wade had 26 points and 10 rebounds, Luol Deng 22 points and 11 boards and Hassan Whiteside 18 points, 17 rebounds and seven blocks. Goran Dragic returned from missing a game with an illness and had 11 points and nine assists. The Heat missed 11 of their 26 free throws. Sacramento beat Washington 120-111 on Wednesday. DeMarcus Cousins had 29 points, 10 rebounds, five steals and four blocks but got a stupid technical with just a few seconds left in the game. That was his 16th of the season, meaning an automatic suspension for this game. Miami has won 13 of the past 14 meetings vs. the Kings and took a 116-109 home decision on Nov. 19.

Key trends: The Kings are 4-0 ATS in their past four games. The over is 6-1 in Miami's past seven road games.

Early lean: Heat and under.

Celtics at Warriors (-11.5, 226.5)

Second ESPN game and will feature live betting. Shame Boston is playing the second of a back-to-back as it was in Portland on Thursday. C's are good enough to potentially pull the upset here if at full rest. Golden State rallied for a 103-96 OT win in Utah on Wednesday. Klay Thompson hit the late tying 3-pointer in regulation and Steph Curry had six straight OT points. Now it's a formality that the Warriors break the Bulls' record of 72 regular-season wins as they only need go 5-2 in the final seven to do it. Golden State was pushed to the limit on Dec. 11 in Boston, winning 124-119 in double overtime. That game was terrific, I remember it well. The Warriors have won five straight vs. the Celtics, tying a franchise record set when the team was in Philly.

Key trends: The Warriors are 2-5 ATS in their past seven overall. The under is 6-1 in their past seven overall.

Early lean: Celtics and over.

Wizards at Suns (+6, 214.5)

Washington's playoff hopes took a huge hit with a 120-111 loss in Sacramento on Wednesday, but the Wizards were clearly deflated entering that game after playing well in Golden State the night before. John Wall was just 4-for-16 from the field vs. the Kings. Phoenix lost a fourth in a row Wednesday, 105-94 in Milwaukee. Brandon Knight had 17 points in his first trip to Milwaukee since being traded by the Bucks to the Suns in February 2015. Mirza Teletovic missed the game with a stomach illness. Washington beat Phoenix 109-106 on Dec. 4. The Wizards also have won two of the last three in Phoenix.

Key trends: The Suns are 3-8 ATS in their past 11 vs. the East. The under is 5-0-1 in the past six meetings between these two.

Early lean: Wizards and over.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Friday's hot teams
-- Charlotte won six of its last eight games (5-3-1 last 9HF).
-- Dallas won last two games, allowing 88.5 ppg (5-1 last 6AU). Pistons won six of their last seven games (17-6-1 last 24HF).
-- Cavaliers won six of their last nine games (4-1AU). Hawks won eight of last ten games (4-1 last 5HF).
-- Toronto won six of its last nine games (3-5 last 8AF).
-- Orlando won last three games by 22-34-20 (2-5 last 7AU).
-- Minnesota won three of its last five games (4-1 last 5AU). Utah won seven of its last ten games (7-4 last 11HF).
-- Miami won four of its last six games (6-2 last 8AF). Sacramento won three of last four games, but Cousins is out here (4-9HU).
-- Golden State won its last six games (6-8 last 14HF). Celtics won four of their last six games (2-9 last 11AU).

Cold teams
-- 76ers lost their last ten games, but covered last three on road.
-- Nets lost six of their last eight games (1-4 last 5AU). Knicks also lost six of their last eight games (5-3 last 8HF).
-- Memphis lost eight of its last ten games (6-2 last 8HU).
-- Bucks lost five of their last six games (7-2 last 9HF).
-- Washington lost four of last five games (5-4AF). Suns lost their last four games (3-6 last 9HU).

Series records
-- 76ers lost seven of last eight games with Charlotte.
-- Nets won six of last seven games with the Knicks.
-- Pistons won last two games with Dallas, after losing previous six.
-- Cavaliers won their last five games with Atlanta.
-- Raptors lost four of last five games with Memphis.
-- Bucks won five of last eight games with Orlando.
-- Utah won six of its last eight games with Minnesota.
-- Heat won nine of last ten games with Sacramento.
-- Warriors won last five games with boston, but Celtics are 4-1-1 vs the spread in last six series games.
-- Suns won three of last four games with Washington.

Totals
-- Last five Philly games stayed under the total.
-- Six of last eight Brooklyn-New York games went over.
-- Six of last nine Dallas-Detroit games went over the total.
-- Last three Cleveland games stayed under the total.
-- Last four Toronto games went over the total.
-- Six of last eight Milwaukee games stayed under total.
-- Eight of last ten Utah games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last seven Sacramento games stayed under total.
-- Four of last five Boston games stayed under the total.
-- Seven of last nine Phoenix games stayed under the total.

Back/backs
-- Nets are 2-5 in last seven games if they played night before.
-- Cavaliers are 2-5 in last seven games if they played night before.
-- Magic lost four of last five on road if they played night before.
-- Boston is 10-7 vs spread if it played the night before.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Clippers Hope to Contain Red-Hot Thunder'

In just a few days, the Los Angeles Clippers (46-27 SU, 34-36-3 ATS) will have Blake Griffin back in the lineup. But they'll be without him this Thursday when they visit the Oklahoma City Thunder (52-23 SU, 33-41-1 ATS), winners of eight of their last nine games at 6-3 ATS. Tip-off is at 9:30 PM ET on TNT.

This will be the fourth and final meeting of the regular season between these two Western foes. Oklahoma City has the 2-1 advantage straight up, although Los Angeles is 2-1 ATS in this series. They split a pair of games home and away earlier this month with Griffin (23.2 PER) on the sidelines. He'll be joined Thursday by Paul Pierce (8.0 PER), who's out for an undetermined length of time with a right knee contusion.

The Thunder have one of the weaker benches among the NBA's second-tier title contenders, but they also have two of the league's best players in Russell Westbrook (27.8 PER) and Kevin Durant (28.2 PER). Westbrook has seven triple-doubles in March alone, and he hasn't had to jack up as many questionable shots this year to get the job done, now that Durant is healthy and by his side.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Friday 4/1 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

20-CENT PICK 5: 1,5/2,6,7/1,4,8/3/1,3,5,6,7,9 = $21,60

EARLY PICK 4: 3/1,3,5,6,7,9/1,2,7/2,6,7 = $54

LATE PICK 4: 2,6,7/1,2,7/3,4,5/5,7 = $54

MEET STATS: 318 - 1018 / $1669.70 BEST BETS: 52 - 95 / $186.40

SPOT PLAYS: 21 - 95 / $218.00

Best Bet: PARTY IN ROME (4th)

Spot Play: JUSTCALLMERONALD (3rd)


Race 1

(1) MISSYS GA GA fell just short of chasing down a sharp winner last week. There are no Hillsonators in here, though. This mare is the one to beat in the opener. (5) LADY PING was first up in the same mile as the choice and hung in well while the pace accelerated. That was a good performance and she's in with a shot here. (4) DOMITIAN HALL trotted a 28 flat third 1/4 last time which softened him up late. He should share from close range here.

Race 2

(7) WHISTYS PARADISE ran out of racetrack again last week. The short field should be to her benefit here; top call. (2) I C ANASTRO hasn't lost when sent out for Moreau so far and is the one to beat again but may face more early heat here. (6) OSTINATO is another closer in with a shot and another that can benefit from some early battling here.

Race 3

(8) JUSTCALLMERONALD was flying late last time but ran out of real estate. He can leave and will likely be more forwardly placed early here. (1) GUILTYWITHANEXCUSE drops to the lowest conditioned level and looks like the one to beat. (4) FASHION GODDESS has faced some tough non-winner of three foes recently and should find this group easier. She is an exacta factor here at a price.

Race 4

(3) PARTY IN ROME was an impressive winner last time despite having to work hard early from an outer post in the slop while coming off a three-week break. She should be tough to beat here if she comes close to duplicating that effort. (1) SPORTS EXPERT has faced the same streaking rival in her last two starts and should find this task easier. (2) TERRORCAM goes for Moreau off the claim sporting five easy wins in a row on her card while racing in Ottawa. These are tougher but she's not out of it.

Race 5

(6) ROCK HER WORLD got stung to the tune of a 27 flat third 1/4 last time and still kept coming. She is sharp and due for a better trip; slight nod. (9) INVEST IN ART is another that is also very sharp now and could offer a good price starting from the outside. She is another to use in a race that demands wide Pick 4 and 5 coverage. (3) KISS ME OR NOT drops to the level where she last won and should be sent for position early here.

Race 6

(1) PISCEAN has worked out two great trips in a row and it looks like there's no reason she can't three-peat here facing similar. (2) WALK THE PLANK took a shuffle last time then re-rallied for third. He is racing better than he ever has and is a threat here. (7) ELDORADO OF GOLD S is a speed threat if he stays flat.

Race 7

(6) GREYSTONE LADYLIKE should get a good trip on or near the lead here. Slight nod over (7) WITCH DALI, who will likely be on the engine early and (2) LIGHTS GO OUT who is the best closer in the race. All three should be used on Pick 4 tickets.

Race 8

(2) DONICUS started his move as the pace was picking up last time and couldn't reach the leader. Expect more aggression here and a better result. (7) KADDY was overtaken by a pocket rocket last time and while she is a contender, her habit of tiring late makes her vulnerable. (1) HURRICANE HAZEL scored a big upset three months ago and hasn't been seen since which is a bit of a head scratcher although her qualifier over a heavy track was decent enough.

Race 9

(3) POPGOESTHEWEASEL has been sensational since shipping in to Woodbine and will be tough to beat here again. (4) AMAZING CONTROL returns to a 7-day rotation and gets a positive driver change. She should be the main threat here. (5) SOUTHWIND GEISHA has the ability to beat these and may be returning to top form now; beware.

Race 10

(5) NINETTE B paced her back 1/2 in a sharp 55 3/5 last week but was just too far back to threaten the leaders. She has a much better shot here moving to the middle of the starting gate. (7) YOURE MY SECRET faces much easier here and is likely to be put into the race early. (1) DOCS HOLLYWOOD hung late last time. She is more effective when making one ate charge from the back and can share here. (4) MARY CELESTE should be able to get position early here and stick around for a share. (9) ARRIVISTA HANOVER was closing quickly late last time. She can take a minor share here off a similar trip.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 4/1 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 134 - 465 / $768.00 (-$162.00) BEST BETS: 19 - 35 / $73.60 (+$3.60)

Best Bet: LIGHTNING PAIGE (8th)

Spot Play: DANISH DURANGO (6th)


Race 1

(6) SIX BAX came back to the races with a sharp win at Monticello and has the back class to make some serious noise for top amateur Krivelin. (2) BABY BOY GRIN never got involved upon arrival from Pompano but should be more forwardly placed in this spot. (5) CUP DAY SPUR N has raced very well for Hannah Miller and deserves consideration. (8) TROTALOT has the Spagnola/Hechkoff combination in his favor.

Race 2

(2) WAITING ON A WOMAN seems likely to get forgotten in the wagering to some extent but is very likely to be sitting the pocket behind (5) OPULENT YANKEE. I can see him pulling off the upset as he pushes past Opulent Yankee late. (7) JL CRUZE could win this race by a handful of lengths, but I haven’t seen a sharp enough qualifying effort to warrant taking a short price.

Race 3

(4) KEYSTONE THOMAS has proven himself versus amateur types time and again over the last year. (5) WINDSUN GALLIANO finally woke up last week. He picks up a more than competent amateur driver in Kleinhans tonight. (9) DETROIT RAPPER closed in but not quite fast enough last Friday. The outside post presents a problem but he is more than capable. (7) B L CLASS ACT should get into the number somewhere.

Race 4

(6) SWEET ROYALTY impressed me with a gutsy uncovered effort in his 3-year-old debut and first start since September. I’m sticking with this son of RC Royalty. (10) THE POWER OF MANY enters a new barn and adds Lasix and hobbles. She is probably going to get an easy trip in her sophomore debut, but I also wouldn’t be shocked if she stepped up. (1) MOSCONI HANOVER has qualified well enough to expect a solid showing. (8) CURFEW is fast enough to win but capable of blowing up at any moment.

Race 5

(5) K J’S CAROLINE raced okay off the bench and should prove tough given the class relief. (3) CNDIANA JONES drops down and was Zeron’s choice. (8) A AND G’S DESIGN has some form on his side.

Race 6

(2) DANISH DURANGO gets some major class relief and the switch to David Miller doesn’t hurt. (1) POUNCE HANOVER went an even comeback mile at Pocono on Tuesday and has won here in the past. (4) ALL THAT SPARKLES makes her second start since October and should improve.

Race 7

(4) OUTBURST has done most of his recent work on smaller tracks but seems to have found a good spot where he can leave and sit a trip or rally off cover. (6) ITS HUW YOU KNOW is on quite a roll and hard to ignore. (2) B YOYO is clearly a threat if he brings his best game. (7) YOU’RE MAJESTIC raced well from off the pace upon arrival; trip player.

Race 8

(9) LIGHTNING PAIGE was up in class when last seen at the Meadowlands. Her last start at Yonkers was strong and I’m expecting a big effort tonight. (5) TWICE AN ANGEL put in a steady qualifying effort in her debut for the Russo barn. There is room for improvement here. (4) ROYAL ENGAGEMENT has only missed the board twice in 2016.

Race 9

(5) NEVER EVER CLEVER is in very cheap and really should out-muscle this field. (7) COMMENTARY comes off a good race and seems to be improving. (10) NATURAL KEMP gets class relief.

Race 10

(5) CLEMENTINE DREAM has been in some bad spots of late at Yonkers. She could get aggressive tonight. (4) POSSESSED FASHION makes his second start off the bench and could be ready to show more. (9) CAN DO & (8) TWO HIP DIP are capable given the right setup from outside posts.

Race 11

This looks like one of the tougher races on the card. (8) IDEAL NUGGETS & (7) ASHOK ACE are both making their second start of the year as they embark on their careers as older mares. Either is talented enough to bring a big effort. (6) PURITY is very sharp right now.

Race 12

Here is a field lacking a standout and (1) BELL A CHICK actually had some sneaky late pace a week ago. This looks like a winning spot. (3) BAD DAY BLACK ROCK has some legitimate excuses of late and couldn’t have asked for a better field to face. (10) BROOKROAD KNIGHT raced well on the drop to this level a week ago. (8) GLORIOUS WINNER picks up Miller and could respond.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 4/1 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 86 - 336 / $587.50

BEST BETS: 9 - 38 / $36.30

Best Bet: MCCOVEY COVE N (12th)

Spot Play: YES YOU CAN (9th)


Race 1

(5) TOUCH AND GO was sharp in his last start only to get nailed by Touch the Rock. With a relaxing trip he can turn the tables on that rival. (3) TOUCH THE ROCK was on the rim and grinded out a victory in the final strides recently. (2) INNOCENT VICTIM gets post relief and that could help his cause.

Race 2

(4) LORENZO DREAM did not fire from the 7-hole in his latest but the good news is the gelding moves back inside and has the tactical speed to rate and score over these; we shall see. (1) VEGLIANTINO was flashing speed in her last outing so she must be considered from the fence. (8) SOUL TRAIN blasted home late to take down the victory last out.

Race 3

(4) STOMPIN TOM CREEK rallied strongly to grab the show spot last out. Gelding seems to be heading in the right direction based on his last two tries. (5) ROETHBLISSBERGER has wheeled off two straight victories against lesser company. (6) DALLENBACH HANOVER Here's another pacer that has pulled off the double score; watch out.

Race 4

(5) GROUNDED Pacing mare is in solid form scoring her second in a row and she fits well in here so this gal is very capable of keeping on her winning ways. (3) TIPITINA saved ground for three quarters but tried in the final stretch drive last time around. (4) DUNE IN RED had a tough break at the start last time out but could get back into the swing of things with a return to her March 11th trip.

Race 5

(2) CINAMONY Her last two were not so good but she did not have the best of trips either so this seems to be a better spot for this mare to make a quick turnaround based on her resume at the Hilltop. (6) KRISPY APPLE was very sharp for the placing last time out and appears to be a big threat in this event. (4) REGIL ELEKTRA leaves the 8-hole and has fine speed; not out of this.

Race 6

(2) VENUS DELIGHT Now that this 6-year-old mare has two starts under her belt, there's a chance she will put her best foot forward. (6) SELL A BIT N was sent down the road recently for all the glory. (6) SKIPPIN BY was sharp on the engine but was nailed for win honors last out.

Race 7

(1) YAGONNAKISSMEORNOT Very good score when this gal was on the rim and wore down the leader for all the marbles last out; not out of the question for the double. (3) ANNDROVETTE was sitting in the pocket most of the way but came up short missing the victory by only a 1/2 length. (4) AL RAZA N is two for two in the Matchmaker series and she much be considered in all the exotics slots.

Race 8

Have to take a shot with (2) JADED DREAM to put it all together. Mare was an even fourth last out and has tactical speed so with a fine-timed drive she can make tonight a winning one. (7) MEDUSA Pocket-rocket score against some of these last week; likely favorite. (8) LOVINEVERYMINUTE Two easy scores in a row against lesser; post hurts but is quite capable.

Race 9

(3) YES YOU CAN Woodbine invader makes her return to Yonkers and was facing tougher in her last three outings. She can take this with Tetrick at the helm. (2) ROCK N ROLL XAMPLE sharp in her last two scores puts this gal right in the mix. (6) BABY REMIND ME was very game sitting in the pocket most of the way and blasted through the passing lane for all the glory last out.

Race 10

(6) KNOCKING AROUND Quite consistent gelding has been on the board in his last four trips to the post; big threat despite the rise in class. (4) ARI ALLSTAR is on a roll scoring two straight victories. Here's another win machine (3) WHAT I BELIEVE taking down the hat trick last time around.

Race 11

(2) RED HOT HERBIE his second place finish is an indication he is knocking at the door. He moves down in class and this gelding appears to be ready to greet the cameraman for pictures. (4) ALLERAGE STAR was quite good in the pocket and only lost glory by a length and a half. (3) E R ELLIE gets a solid post to work with and could have a say in the outcome.

Race 12

(2) MCCOVEY COVE N Great effort in her first U.S. outing getting the job done. Retains the 2-hole and catches a weak group; major threat for the repeat. (1) ALHAMBRA closed well to nail down the place spot in her latest. (6) ENVIOUS HANOVER has hit the board in her last four outings; exotics factor.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Friday
By Mike Dempsey

The chatter this week has been all about the showdown between Mohaymen and Nyquist in the $1 million Florida Derby (G1), but in case you did not notice there is one other Road to the Kentucky Derby points race to be decided on Saturday.

A full field will head to the gate in the $500,000 Spiral Stakes (G3) at Turfway Park. The points are half of what is being offered for the Florida Derby, but the winner does pick up 50 points, stamping a ticket to Louisville.

The Spiral is not considered a “major” Derby prep because it is contested over polytrack, but let’s not forget that Animal Kingdom used the race as a prep before winning the 2011 Kentucky Derbyl. He ended up my top pick in the race and paid $43.80 to win.

Good memories, and an incentive to take a close look at this year’s edition.

There is a very talented runner who is the 3-1 morning line favorite in Airoforce. The colt is currently listed at 50-1 in future Kentucky Derby betting at Sportsbook.ag.

The colt was beaten just a neck in a runner up finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (G1) and then won the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) in the slop at Churchill Downs.

The colt made his three-year-old debut in the Risen Star (G2) at Fair Grounds where he faded to finish a well beaten 10th as the beaten favorite.

He is better than he showed and if he comes up with a big effort Saturday he certainly will be an interesting play in the Kentucky Derby and still will end up a big price.


Here is today’s opening race from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:

GP Race 1 Clm $16,000 (12:35 ET)
2 Forall the Marbles 3-1
1 Scoria 5-2
7 Pep the Champ 4-1
4 Tiger Bourbon 8-1

Analysis: Forall the Marbles set a pressed pace and weakened to finish sixth last out, beaten 2 1/4 lengths for the top spot at this level. The gelding drops into what looks like an easier spot and this guy won for this tag three back in gate to wire fashion in the slop and won at this level five back here on turf. There is not much early pace signed up here and this guy may be able to steal it.

Scoria faded to finish eighth last out facing $25,000 claimers. He won for this tag three back going nine furlongs on the turf here. He has not been able to run back to that effort in his two starts for the Garoffalo barn but got no pace and now drops into an easier spot.

Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 5-2 or better
EX: 1,2 / 1,2,4,7
TRI: 1,2 / 1,2,4,7 / 1,2,4,5,7

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:

GP Race 6 Clm $30,000N2L (3:05 ET)
6 Whipsnade 8-1
8 Leopardshill Road 10-1
1 Moonlit Sonnet 3-1
3 Key d'Oro 5-2

Analysis: Whipsnade returns off a two-month break after dueled for the early lead and weakening to finish fourth last out against $25,000 starter optional claimers on the main track. The winner, third and fifth place finishers all came out of that race to win next out. Our top pick tires grass for the first time here as she makes her first start for the Walsh barn. She is out of a Distant View mare that has dropped two other winners and they have both won on grass.

Leopardshill Road stalked the early pace, had to steady in traffic at the 7/8's and was no match for a runway winner in a third place finish for a $25,000 tag in her first go off the claim by the Navarro barn. She was making her first start on turf. The barn does good work with recent claims and this gal is a half to three turf winners. Johnny V. takes over and the 10-1 morning line looks fair enough.

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 5-1 or better.
EX: 6,8 / 1,3,6,8
TRI: 6,8 / 1,3,6,8 / 1,3,5,6,8


Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Gulfrstream Park
R1: #4 Tiger Bourbon 8-1
R2: #5 Little Awesome 10-1
R4: #6 Rince Tapaigh 10-1
R6: #6 Whipsnade 8-1
R6: #8 Leopardshill Road 10-1
R7: #4 Rosie’s Faith 10-1
R8: #4 Zachary’s Pitch 15-1
R10: #10 Feeling Awesome 20-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (3rd) Richie's Rich, 4-1
(8th) Bold Illusion, 6-1

Charles Town (1st) Officer Buster, 5-1
(5th) Taylor's Cork, 6-1

Golden Gate Fields (1st) Scathing, 3-1
(7th) Mucho Macho Dan, 7-2


Gulfstream Park (3rd) Gurlin, 5-1
(4th) Image of Rachel, 5-1


Hawthorne (2nd) Wall Student, 7-2
(5th) W W Concerto, 7-2


Laurel Park (2nd) Mediador, 8-1
(4th) More Stormyweather, 6-1


Oaklawn Park (1st) World Elite, 4-1
(9th) Greek Life, 4-1


Penn National (1st) Greatness Awaits, 8-1
(8th) Afleet Criminal, 3-1


Santa Anita (2nd) Reckless Charm, 6-1
(5th) Fly Lexis Fly, 5-1


Tampa Bay Downs (5th) Plenty of Chrome, 9-2
(6th) Marriage Material, 5-1


Turfway Park (6th) L Z Nancy, 6-1
(8th) See the Bird, 4-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Friday's six-pack

Odds to win the home run title this baseball season........

7-1-- Giancarlo Stanton-- Someone's fantasy team needs him healthy this year.

15-2-- Chris Davis-- Was smart re-signing with Orioles; loves Camden Yards.

17-2-- Jose Abreu-- Has lot more protection in lineup this season.

12-1- Bryce Harper-- Has a new manager this year, Dusty Baker.

13-1-- JD Martinez-- Hit three homers that don't count yesterday.

18-1-- Nolan Arenado-- How many taters would Stanton hit in Denver?

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sharp Bettor

Sharp Bettor's Free Pick for Friday, April 1, 2016, NBA.

This is the 5th road game over the last six contests for Philadelphia, including a West Coast trip. The 76ers are on a 5-0 run under the total, 4-0 under on the road. Philadelphia is No. 28 in the NBA in points allowed and last in scoring. The Hornets moved a little closer to clinching a playoff spot as Nicolas Batum had 19 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists leading Charlotte to a 100-85 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. The 76ers were playing without top big man Nerlens Noel, who missed his fourth straight game with a right knee contusion. Also out for Philadelphia were forwards Jerami Grant (right knee/quad) and Richaun Holmes (Achilles'). Rookie Jahlil Okafor is sidelined for the season with a torn right meniscus. Charlotte is No. 9 in the NBA in points allowed and 4-0 under the total at home. The under is 16-7 in the Hornets last 23 games playing on 2 days rest.

Play the 76ers/Charlotte Under the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Roz Wins

Roz's Friday, April 1, 2016, Free CBB Pick:

Game 3 of this series tied at 1-1, so the title is decided here. Morehead State has allowed 50% shooting to Nevada in both the first two games of this series. Nevada Reno is home, where they play their best basketball. The Wolf Pack are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games.

Play Nevada.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Friday

521 MOREHEAD STATE at 522 NEVADA 9:00 PM

Take: 522 NEVADA -4

Morehead State and Nevada play the rubber match of their CBI Championship series tonight. The locals turned out in big numbers on Wednesday and made their presence felt throughout the game. So it’s safe to expect more of the same tonight.

Morehead State just couldn’t hit a thing from outside in Game Two. The Eagles were a ghastly 1/16 on their threes, and in fact they’re only 5/32 from beyond the arc in the first two games. I don’t think they have much of a chance if that lack of accuracy from outside rears its head again tonight.

The Wolf Pack survived that second game on Wednesday in spite of some awful ball security. Nevada had a whopping 21 turnovers in that game. Teams don’t usually win when they have a stat like that, and if the same thing happens again this evening, Nevada will probably lose.

I can see a case being made for either side here. But there are a couple of intangibles that have me favoring Nevada. First off, while I cannot guarantee that it’s the case, Reno can be a distraction for visiting teams, especially if it’s more than an overnight stay as is the case here for Morehead State.

I also like Eric Musselman to come up with some adjustments to cut down on the turnovers and I expect him to try and defend the paint better as well. The more the Wolf Pack can force the Eagles to shoot jumpers, the better their chances. Morehead is very predictable in that they are extremely diligent about getting the ball as close to the rim as possible, and that formula has served them well. But when that gets effectively denied, the Eagles struggle.

This should be a good game, and I would be very surprised if either side were to turn it into a lopsided affair. But the home court edge appears significant, and the extended stay in altitude is not a great thing for the road team. I see the home team having more of the advantages tonight, so I’ll try and cash one more ticket on Nevada minus the points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp NBA Pick, Friday, April 1, 2016 7:05 PM EST

(501) PHILADELPHIA 76ERS VS (502) CHARLOTTE HORNETS

Take: (502) CHARLOTTE HORNETS

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Friday, April 1, 2016 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Charlotte Hornets. This is the 5th road game over the last six contests for Philadelphia, including a West Coast trip. The 76ers are 15-36 ATS against the Eastern Conference and 8-17 ATS vs. a team with a winning straight up record. They just at home by 15 to this Charlotte team the last game. Philadelphia is No. 28 in the NBA in points allowed and last in scoring. The Hornets moved a little closer to clinching a playoff spot as Nicolas Batum had 19 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists leading Charlotte to a 100-85 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. Cody Zeller added 18 points and 11 boards for Charlotte, which set a franchise record for wins in a month with its 13th victory in March. The 76ers were playing without top big man Nerlens Noel, who missed his fourth straight game with a right knee contusion. Also out for Philadelphia were forwards Jerami Grant (right knee/quad) and Richaun Holmes (Achilles'). Rookie Jahlil Okafor is sidelined for the season with a torn right meniscus. Charlotte is No. 9 in the NBA in points allowed and is 11-5 ATS against the Eastern Conference. The Hornets are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. Play Charlotte.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Red Dog Sports

Bonus Play Draw +201

Evian TC 1

Valenciennes 1

I think we see the draw when these two teams meet on Friday. This match takes place in France.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Martin Griffiths

Middlesbrough vs Queens Park Rangers

Bonus Play Queens Park Rangers

On paper this looks like a fairly even match up, yes Middlesbrough are 19 points ahead of QPR in the Championship, but that is offset by the fact that they are on the road, while QPR enjoy home advantage.

This is backed up with most recent home and away results for the respective teams.

Middlesbrough last three away games have all been losses, while QPR last three home matches have all been wins.

But that does not mean that this a a definite home win, far from it, Middlesbrough are third in the table, a draw or win would see them go top two and into an automatic promotion spot, in better words they are a solid team that should never be underestimated, even when recent results are poor.

QPR are very unlikely to make the play off's, never mind a promotion spot and it can be argued that they have nothing to play for, however that would be a mistake, players are playing for contracts and it is too early to say they are simply going through the motions, there is still a mathematical chance they can make the play off’s, however unlikely that is.

So, we have the team on the road looking at a promotion spot but going through a slump in form on the road and we have a home team that is doing the business at home in recent weeks, but who are unlikely to make the play offs.

Everything about this game screams draw and for that reason I am advising that you take QPR +0.5 on the spreads.