Monday 1/25/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Hornets (21-23) at Kings (20-23)

Date: January 25, 2016 10:00 PM EDT

DeMarcus Cousins and Kemba Walker have turned in the two highest-scoring outputs in the last week and they sound pretty similar as to what's their motivation.

These rising stars will be the focal point Monday night when Cousins seeks to lead the Sacramento Kings to their first six-game win streak in 11 seasons as they host Walker's Charlotte Hornets.

Cousins had a career high 48 points and 13 rebounds Saturday in a 108-97 home win over Indiana. He is averaging 32.5 points and 14.2 rebounds during a run of 10 straight double-double.

'Playoffs, playoffs, playoffs. That's all I am thinking about,' said Cousins, who has yet to reach his postseason in his sixth season. 'It's been some rough years. But it's not over and we still got a lot more to go. I'm happy in the moment, but I'm not satisfied.'

Cousins' 32.5 points per game this month leads the NBA.

The only player with a better output over the last seven days was Walker's franchise-record 52 points in a 124-119 double-overtime last Monday over Utah.

The Hornets guard also scored 40 two games later in Friday's 120-116 overtime victory at Orlando before he scored 26 the next night in a 97-84 win over New York. The fifth-year player has been to the playoffs once.

"I just want to win," Walker said. "Whatever it takes, I don't care how many minutes it is, I'm going to go out there and I'm going to fight until the game's over."

Both players are being leaned on more heavily with the second-leading scorer for these clubs out with injuries. Charlotte's Nicolas Batum, averaging 15.1 points, is out with a sprained right toe, while Sacramento's Rudy Gay averages 17.9 and has missed two straight games with a bruised heel.

The Hornets (21-23) have another starter out in Cody Zeller, who may miss some significant time with a strained right shoulder. Jeremy Lin is starting in Batum's spot and Spencer Hawes in Zeller's.

Charlotte, which has dropped seven straight road games against Western Conference foes, is outside the East's top eight.

"We're down guys, good players, key guys, a number of them," coach Steve Clifford said. "We've got now nine more games till the All-Star break and we need to win our share here."

Sacramento (20-23) is eighth in the West as it seeks its first six-game win streak since 2004-05.

Omri Casspi has been starting for Gay the last two games for the Kings, who have overcome woeful shooting in that stretch by the starting backcourt of Rajon Rondo and Ben McLemore. They have combined for 41 points on 32.6 percent shooting.

"The last couple games, our guards aren't shooting at a high level and we're still winning games," coach George Karl said.

Rondo has two straight triple-doubles and six for the season to trail only Golden State's Draymond Green with eight. He guides an offense averaging a league-best 101.9 possessions per 48 minutes.

Sacramento blew a 22-point, second-half lead in a 127-122 overtime loss at Charlotte on Nov. 23. Walker scored 25 of his 39 points after the third quarter while Cousins had 30 points and 11 rebounds for the Kings, who led by 11 with 3:59 left in regulation.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Spurs (38-6) at Warriors (40-4)

Date: January 25, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) Even with that NBA-record 24-0 start, Stephen Curry and Co. can't shake the San Antonio Spurs.

Now, the defending champion Golden State Warriors finally get to face the team chasing them in the Western Conference in a Monday night showdown anticipated for months pitting the past two NBA title teams.

'That's going to be one of the fun things about this game is that we haven't played them yet. It's already almost February. It's a strange schedule,' Golden State coach Steve Kerr said after practice Sunday. 'Win or lose, both teams will really benefit from playing against each other.'

Pals Kerr and Gregg Popovich spoke by phone Thursday night once Kerr's return from a lengthy leave of absence following back surgery had been set, and just in time to face mentor Popovich and red-hot San Antonio.

They will get their greetings, handshakes and hugs, then coach on opposite sidelines in what could be one of the most entertaining games yet this season.

San Antonio is riding a 13-game winning streak coming into Oracle Arena, where the Warriors are determined to extend their 38-game regular-season home winning streak dating to late last January that includes a 20-0 mark this season.

'There's no doubt that players will look at it like more than that (just a game),' Popovich said. 'They can't help it. They'll be playing the best team in the league, and they'll be fired up about that.'

Kerr played four of his final five seasons with San Antonio. Yes, he will be fired up for this one, too - especially given his respect for what the organization has done in almost two decades of dominance.

'It's remarkable to me, I'm 50 years old, I've been retired for 13 years and there's still three guys and the same coach who are all on that team. It makes no sense. The continuity and just the program they've built, it's amazing,' Kerr said. 'What's it been, about a 20-year run? It's unprecedented.'

He is referring to longtime Spurs stalwarts Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili.

Shortly after the Spurs announced Sunday that Duncan wouldn't play against Golden State because of right knee soreness, Kerr cracked, 'Tim is 57 years old, so he deserves a night off every once in a while.'

Two games separate these teams. Golden State (40-4) began the season 24-0, while San Antonio (38-6) is still right on the Warriors' tail.

'Excellent basketball,' Curry, the reigning MVP, said of the Spurs. 'It's going to be a fun game. ... It's just another regular-season game against a great team that we have to protect home court. In order to do that, we've got to be at our best for sure. You've got to assume they will.'

Golden State is chasing the Chicago Bulls' NBA record of 44 straight regular-season home wins from March 30, 1995-April 4, 1996. The Warriors, who haven't lost at Oracle since a 113-111 overtime defeat to Chicago last Jan. 27, matched the 1985-86 Celtics for third in Friday's win against Indiana in Kerr's long-awaited return to the bench and behind Curry's triple-double.

Someone asked Kerr whether he timed it this way to be back for the big game. Hardly. He has been eager to get back since the moment he was forced to take a lengthy leave of absence on Oct. 1 following complications from two back surgeries. He's finally feeling better - no headaches, no nausea, no fear of a player hurting him if someone lands on him during a hustle play.

The Warriors and Spurs still must play four times, and each team knows it must go through the other to win it all. Golden State expects to chase another championship after last year's franchise-record 67-win season and first NBA title in 40 years.

San Antonio has been an elite team since Curry was just a kid watching Duncan and Co.

'For sure, that's why they're legends, or they're going to be legends one day when they're done,' Curry said. 'Obviously those three guys and Coach Popovich are the main foundation of that, but they've been able to add pieces as they've gone through their careers and stay at a high level, so it says a lot about the tone and atmosphere and expectations they set.

'When you wear a Spurs uniform you better be ready to elevate your game to their level. That's the most impressive thing.'

Golden State returned from the All-Star break last season to beat the Spurs 110-99 at home, but San Antonio also handed the Warriors one of their two losses at Oracle Arena in a 113-100 win on Nov. 11, 2014.

'It's Game 45. I don't believe in barometer games at all,' Warriors forward Draymond Green said Sunday. 'If you need to win or lose to someone to know where you're at, you're turned in the wrong direction anyway.'

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Game of the Day: Spurs at Warriors

San Antonio Spurs at Golden State Warriors (-4.5, 209)

The Golden State Warriors are undefeated at home and are on pace to set the record for most wins in an NBA regular season, yet they’re only two games clear of the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference standings. The Warriors will put that undefeated home mark on the line when they host the Spurs on Monday in the first meeting of the season between the West heavyweights.

San Antonio rolls into Golden State on a 13-game winning streak and owns a better point differential (plus-14.5) than the Warriors (plus-12.1) thanks to a scoring defense that is far and away the best in the league at an average of 89.8 points allowed, but will be without star power forward Tim Duncan, who will be resting a sore knee. That defense will be going up against a Golden State offense that leads the NBA in scoring (114.7) and has put up 126.3 points while rolling past the Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers in the last three games. “It’s great for the NBA and great for us,” Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson told reporters. “It’s going to be a good test for us. It’s such a close race for that No. 1 spot, and San Antonio is playing beautiful ball. It’s going to be fun.” It has been nearly a year since the last time Golden State lost a home game, and Friday’s 122-110 win over Indiana marked their 38th straight home victory spanning two seasons.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, NBATV, FSN Southwest (San Antonio), CSN Bay Area (Golden State)

LINE HISTORY: The Warriors opened as 3-point home favorites, but after the news came out that Duncan would miss the game, the Warriors were moved a point-and-a-half to -4.5. The total opened at 209.

INJURY REPORT:

Spurs - PF L. Aldridge (probable Monday, back), PF T. Duncan (out Monday, knee).

Warriors - SF J. McAdoo (out Monday, toe).

POWER RANKINGS: Spurs (-18) - Warriors (17.3) + home court (-3) = Warriors -2.7

ABOUT THE SPURS (38-6, 30-14 ATS, 20-23-1 O/U): San Antonio has not been challenged much of late, with only three of its last 13 wins coming by single digits. The Spurs warmed up for the showdown by winning the first two games of the road trip at Phoenix and the Los Angeles Lakers by a total of 41 points and are looking forward to the test on Monday. “There’s no doubt that players will look at it like more than (just another game),” San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich told reporters. “They can’t help it. They’re playing the best team in the league and they’ll be fired up about that.”

ABOUT THE WARRIORS (40-4, 26-17-1 ATS, 27-17 O/U): There is plenty of mutual respect going back and forth between San Antonio and Golden State, and current Warriors coach and former Spurs player Steve Kerr continues to be amazed by his former team. “I know them pretty well,” Kerr told reporters. “It’s remarkable to me that I’m 50 years old and have been retired for 13 years, and they have three guys (Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker) and a coach who are still on that team. It makes no sense. The continuity and the program they’ve built is amazing.” Kerr (complications from back surgery) returned to the bench on Friday after missing the first 43 games and watched star Stephen Curry put up a triple-double in the easy win.

TRENDS:

* Spurs are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
* Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
* Spurs are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Golden State.
* Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Golden State.

CONSENSUS: Bettors are siding with the home team in this matchup with 64 percent of wagers on the Warriors. As for the total, 65 percent of wagers are on the over.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Monday's hot teams
-- Celtics/Wizards both won five of last seven games; Boston is 1-5 last 6AU, Washington is 5-9HF.
-- Memphis won four of its last five games (6-2 last 8HF).
-- Rockets won seven of their last ten games. New Orleans won five of its last six games.
-- Denver is 4-3 in its last seven games, all at home (7-2-1 last ten HU).
-- Sacramento won/covered its last five games (7-7HF). Hornets won three of last four games (8-7AU).
-- Spurs won their last 14 games (0-1AU). Golden State won 11 of its last 13 games (3-6 last 9HF).

Cold teams
-- Cavaliers split their last six games (9-8HF). Minnesota lost eight of last ten games (2-7 last 9AU).
-- Orlando lost nine of its last ten games (0-4 last 4AU).
-- Miami lost seven of its last eight games (4-8AU). Chicago lost six of its last nine games (8-13HF).
-- Pistons lost five of their last seven games (4-7 last 11AU). Utah lost four of its last six games (6-4 last 10HF).
-- Hawks lost four of last five road games (3-8 last 11AF).

Series records
-- Cavaliers won their last three games with Minnesota.
-- Celtics won their last three games with Washington.
-- Grizzlies won their last eight games with Orlando.
-- Bulls won three of last four games with Miami.
-- Rockets won three of last four games with New Orleans.
-- Jazz won six of last eight games with Detroit.
-- Nuggets are 7-3 in last ten games with Atlanta; home team won last seven series games.
-- Kings are 5-3 in their last eight games with Charlotte.
-- Spurs won eight of last nine games with Golden State.

Totals
-- Three of last four Minnesota-Cleveland games went over.
-- Five of last six Celtic games went over the total.
-- Last seven Memphis games went over the total.
-- Last five Chicago-Miami games stayed under.
-- Five of last seven Rocket-Pelican games stayed under.
-- Five of last seven Detroit games went over the total.
-- Last five Atlanta games stayed under the total; five of last six Denver games went over.
-- Five of last six Sacramento games stayed under total.
-- Six of last eight Spur-Warrior games stayed under total.

Back/backs
-- Boston is 6-4 vs spread if it played night before.
-- Houston is 4-7 vs spread if it played night before.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Warriors aim fo 39 straight at home '

The eyes of most basketball fans, as well as those focused on basketball betting, will be on the Monday night showdown between host Golden State Warriors (40-4, 26-17-1 ATS) and visiting San Antonio Spurs (38-6, 30-14 ATS).

Home-court advantage is certainly something Golden State can tap into as they're tough nuts to crack on Oracle Arena hardwood. This year, they've won 20 consecutive games in front of the friendly crowd and 38 straight regular season games dating back to last season. However, the Dubs have not been the greatest bets over the impressive run going 20-18 against the betting line including a vig-losing 10-10 ATS this season.

You may regret selling Spurs short in this matchup. Spurs, one of the leagues best at keeping the ball out of their own backet (89.8) carry a 13-0 (9-4 ATS) streak into the contest outscoring opponents by 18.0 points/game and have won seven of eight away from Alamo City (6-2 ATS) by 18.6 points/game. Additionally, Spurs have shown a habit of handling Warriors in regular season winning 15-of-18 matchups with a profitable 11-6-1 mark against the betting line.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Blue Devils (15-5) at Hurricanes (15-3)

Date: January 25, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Duke and Miami have each taken their share of lumps in ACC play, but escaping the next game could go a long way in expediting the healing process.

The 20th-ranked Blue Devils and 15th-ranked Hurricanes have each regrouped from losing streaks and will look to piece together some momentum when they meet in Coral Gables on Monday night.

Duke (15-5, 4-3) plays at Georgia Tech on Feb. 2 and at home against North Carolina State on Feb. 6, two of the ACC's bottom teams, leaving an opportunity for a push before a challenging stretch begins. The Blue Devils follow with games against No. 17 Louisville, No. 13 Virginia, No. 2 North Carolina and the Cardinals again.

But first they eye consecutive conference wins to wash away the taste of their first three-game ACC losing streak since February 2007.

Duke suffered conference losses at Clemson on Jan. 13 and at home against Notre Dame on Jan. 16 and Syracuse on Jan. 18, all by five points or fewer. The Blue Devils could finally exhale following Saturday's 88-78 win at NC State.

They shot 54.2 percent, their highest percentage since the ACC opener, fueled by 71 percent shooting in a 52-point second half. Duke made 7 of 11 3-pointers after the intermission and used a 14-0 run to take control.

'We realize as a team that we're not going to just wake up and win,' said junior Matt Jones, who hit two 3-pointers during Duke's decisive run. 'You have to cherish moments like these and kind of just know it wasn't given, it was earned.'

Life has been difficult since senior forward Amile Jefferson fractured a bone in his right foot in a mid-December practice, leaving the Blue Devils with a six-man rotation. Jefferson averaged 11.4 points and 10.3 rebounds in the first nine games, and Duke has struggled to replace his production on the boards. The Blue Devils were outrebounded in each game of their losing streak but held a 31-28 advantage against the Wolfpack.

Miami holds a plus-5.8 rebound differential while the Blue Devils are at plus-3.4.

Sophomore Grayson Allen and freshman Brandon Ingram have carried the offensive load. Allen made 11 of 17 shots for 28 points against NC State, while Ingram added 25 on 10-of-16 shooting. Allen has averaged 21.4 points while shooting 56.6 percent in the last eight games, and Ingram has averaged 20.4 points on 52.8 percent shooting in the last 13.

Duke is the only ACC team with two players averaging at least 17 points, with Allen the league's second-leading scorer at 20.5 - behind only NC State's Anthony Barber (22.1) - and Ingram at 17.1.

A grueling three-game road trip turned into the first two conference losses for Miami (15-3, 4-2) with defeats at then-No. 13 Virginia and Clemson two weeks ago. But the Hurricanes closed the trip with Wednesday's 67-53 victory at Boston College and followed with Saturday's 77-63 home win over Wake Forest - the Hurricanes' seventh straight at BankUnited Center.

Coach Jim Larranaga has used music to try and loosen up his team following its skid, playing Bobby McFerrin's 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' on Friday and Pharrell Williams' 'Happy' for them before tipoff Saturday.

'We're trying to encourage them,' Larranaga said. 'But they're probably not happy until the game is over and they know they've won.'

The Hurricanes play at NC State on Jan. 30, host a good Notre Dame team on Feb. 3 and play at Georgia Tech on Feb. 7.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Jayhawks (16-3) at Cyclones (15-4)

Date: January 25, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Kansas isn't likely to extend its remarkable Big 12 title run without ending its road woes - a task that won't be easy against resurgent Iowa State.

In the first meeting since the 2015 conference tournament final, the third-ranked Jayhawks will try to move into sole possession of the Big 12 lead while avoiding their third straight road loss Monday night against the No. 19 Cyclones.

This matchup will also feature two of the league's top three scorers in Kansas' Perry Ellis (16.3 per game) and Iowa State's Georges Niang (19.3).

After totaling 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting in his prior two games, Ellis scored 26 in Saturday's 76-67 home win over Texas. Wayne Selden Jr. added 19 and hit 4 of 8 from 3-point range after averaging 9.5 while missing 15 of 21 from deep in his previous four.

Kansas struggled to beat TCU at home between double-digit road losses, but moved back into a four-way tie for first place with Oklahoma, West Virginia and Baylor, which lost to the Sooners on Saturday.

"We needed to eliminate the negative momentum because we were in a rut," said coach Bill Self, who improved to 200-9 at Allen Fieldhouse.

Now the Jayhawks (16-3, 5-2) can move a half-game ahead as they continue to chase a 12th straight Big 12 regular-season title. However, they've dropped five of their last six road games dating to last season.

Since winning 18 of 19 in this series, Kansas has lost three of four, including an 86-81 loss in its last trip to Ames on Jan. 17, 2015. Iowa State also rallied from 17 down to capture its second straight Big 12 tournament title with a 70-66 win over the Jayhawks on March 14.

Niang led the Cyclones with 19 points in that contest and has averaged 21.4 while hitting 11 of 26 from 3-point range in his last five matchups.

After scoring 22.0 per game on 55.3 percent shooting over his previous nine, the senior forward looks to bounce back after matching a season-low with 11 points on 4-of-12 shooting in Saturday's 73-60 win at TCU.

Monte Morris stepped up with 18 points for the Cyclones, who rank among the national leaders with 84.4 points per game and a 50.2 field-goal percentage. The junior guard has averaged 19.0 points over his last five.

"We need him to score," coach Steve Prohm said of Morris. "We don't need Georges to get 11 every night. We need him to get going, especially Monday."

After opening 1-3 in conference play, the Cyclones (15-4, 4-3) have worked their way back into the race with three consecutive victories, including last Monday's 82-77 home win over Oklahoma.

They've tightened things up defensively, allowing an average of 66.7 points on 39.8 percent shooting during the streak. The Cyclones had given up 81.6 per game on 47.2 percent over their previous nine.

That's a trend they'll try to continue against a Kansas team that has scored 69.0 per game while hitting 41.8 percent in its last five.

Selden, though, has totaled 45 points on 15-of-24 shooting in the past two meetings with Iowa State. Ellis had averaged 21.5 in his previous four matchups before he was held to seven on 2-of-10 shooting in the Big 12 final.

The Cyclones have won 16 of their past 19 home games versus ranked opponents, but the Jayhawks handed them two of the defeats.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Big Monday Tip Sheet
By David Schwab

The final Monday in January offers-up a pair of key showdowns in both the ACC and the Big 12 for college hoops bettors as part of ESPN’s Big Monday slate. In the opener, the struggling Duke Blue Devils will try and return to form with a trip to South Florida to face the nationally ranked Miami Hurricanes in a 7 p.m. (ET) tip. The second game is a matchup between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Iowa State Cyclones in a 9 p.m. start at Hilton Coliseum.

No. 20 Duke Blue Devils at No. 15 Miami Hurricanes (7 p.m. ESPN)

Betting Point-spread: Miami -2 ½

Betting Matchup

The Blue Devils got a much needed victory with their 88-78 win against NC State this past Saturday as 4 ½-point road favorites. This followed a three-game losing streak both straight-up and against the spread that included losses to Notre Dame and Syracuse as healthy home favorites. The total went OVER the 148 ½-point closing line in Saturday’s win and it has now gone OVER in eight of their last 11 games.

In the win against the Wolfpack, Duke got a huge effort from sophomore guard Grayson Allen (28 points) and freshman guard Brandon Ingram (25 points) on the scoreboard and it shot a blazing 54.2 percent from the field. The Blue Devils are ranked fifth in the nation in scoring with 85.7 points per game and they are hitting 48 percent of their shots from the floor.

Miami had little trouble getting past Wake Forest this past Saturday in a 77-63 romp that ended as a PUSH. The win improved its record to 4-2 SU in conference play, but it is still a costly 2-3-1 ATS. The total has stayed UNDER in five of those six games. The Hurricanes are a profitable 6-2-1 ATS this season on their home court.

Sophomore guard Ja’Quan Newton came off the bench to score a game-high 18 points in Saturday’s win. The Hurricanes’ top scorer this season has been senior guard Sheldon McClellan with 16 PPG. He added 14 points in the winning effort but Miami, as a team, shot just 35.9 percent from the field while going 7-for-20 from three-point range. On the year, the Hurricanes are averaging 79.2 PPG with a 47.8 field goal percentage.

Betting Trends

The Blue Devils are 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 games following an ATS win, but they are just 4-13-1 ATS in their last 18 games played on Monday. The total has gone OVER in six of their last eight road games.

The Hurricanes have covered ATS in five of their last seven home games and they are 20-8-1 ATS in their last 29 games following a SU win. The total has stayed UNDER in their last four home games.

Head-to-head in this matchup, the road team is 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings and it has gone 4-2 SU in the last six games. The total has gone OVER in six of Duke’s last seven road games against Miami.

No. 3 Kansas Jayhawks at No. 19 Iowa State Cyclones (9 p.m. ESPN)

Betting Point-spread: Iowa State -1

Betting Matchup

The Jayhawks bounced-back from a bad 86-67 loss to Oklahoma State as nine-point road favorites with Saturday’s 76-67 victory against Texas. They failed to cover as 12 ½-point home favorites in that win and they are just 1-5 ATS in their last six games. The total ended as a PUSH on a 143-point line against the Longhorns after staying UNDER in three of their previous four games.

Senior forward Perry Ellis has been the team’s leading scorer all season long with 16.3 PPG and he rose to the occasion against Texas with a game-high 26 points. Kansas also got a big effort from junior guard Wayne Selden Jr. with 19 points while going 4-for-8 from three-point range. The Jayhawks are averaging 84 points a game and shooting 48.5 percent from the field; however their scoring average has dropped to just 69 points over their last five games.

Iowa State has won its last three games both SU and ATS following Saturday’s 73-60 victory against TCU as a nine-point road favorite. The Cyclones are now 4-3 (SU and ATS) in Big 12 play and the total has stayed UNDER in their last three wins. One of those victories came against Oklahoma on Jan. 18 in an 82-77 win as two-point home favorites.

Cyclones’ senior forward Georges Niang has been the leading scorer this season with 19.3 PPG. While he only had 11 points in the win against TCU, he has eclipsed this average in four of his first seven conference games. Iowa State is ranked 11th in the nation in scoring with 84.4 PPG and it is shooting an effective 50.2 percent from the field. Junior forward Jameel McKay is the team’s leading rebounder with 9.3 a game as part of the Cyclones’ 38 rebounds a game.

Betting Trends

The Jayhawks have failed to cover in their last four games against a team with a SU winning record and they are 1-2 ATS in their last three road games. The total has gone OVER in five of their last six games played on a Monday.

The Cyclones are 8-3-1 ATS in their 12 games against the Big 12, but they are just 1-4-1 ATS in their last six home games. The total has stayed UNDER in nine of their last 13 home games.

Iowa State is 3-1 both SU and ATS in the last four meetings and the total has gone OVER in seven of the last nine games between these two conference foes.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

College basketball betting TV guide: Must-watch, must-wager games
By STEVE MERRIL

College basketball is in full swing with conference play shaping the field for the NCAA tournament. Steve Merril has scoured the schedule for the must-watch, must-wager games for each day on the college hoops calendar so that you don’t miss any of the action.

Monday – Duke Blue Devils at Miami Hurricanes (ESPN)

Duke inexplicably lost at home to Syracuse as an 11-point favorite Monday, and they’ll play at North Carolina State before playing the Hurricanes in Miami. The Blue Devils will go into their game against the Wolfpack on a three-game losing streak, so all is not well. Miami is also struggling a bit as it will go into its game at Boston College on a two-game losing streak. However, those games were on the road. The Hurricanes have lost just once at home this season and that defeat came by only a single point.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Notes for Monday's games..........

Duke is 2-3 in its last five games with Miami; road team won four of last six series games. Blue Devils are 3-2 in last five visits here; they snapped 3-game skid Saturday at NC State, are 2-4 in games decided by less than 10 points. Miami is 3-0 at home in ACC, winning by 13-13-14 points; Hurricanes are 7-2 vs top 100 teams, but lost last two ACC home faves of 5 or less points are 3-5 against the spread.

Ohio State is 19-2 in its last 21 games with Penn State, winning eight of last nine here; both PSU wins came two years ago. Buckeyes lost three of last four games, but are 3-0 at home in Big 14, winning by 15-2-26 points. Lions are 1-3 on Big 14 road, losing by 6-23-17 points, with a win at Northwestern, their only win in eight top 100 games. Big 14 single digit home favorites are 10-8 vs spread.

Green Bay won its last four games with Detroit, winning 62-52/96-76 in last two played here; Phoenix lost three of its last four Horizon games, giving up 91.3 ppg- they're playing at #2 tempo in country, forcing TOs 22% of time, but they lost 111-95 to Oakland Saturday. Detroit lost its last four games, with last three losses all by 4 or less points. Horizon home favorites of 8 or less points are 4-6 vs spread.

Milwaukee won three of last four games with Oakland, winning two at home 86-64/84-67; Panthers won five of last six games, winning last two at home by 9-3 points. Oakland won three of last four games, winning last two on road. Milwaukee's eFG% defense is #226, bad news against Oakland team that shoots 38.7% on arc. Horizon home teams are 1-6 vs spread in games where spread was less than 5 points.

Iowa State won three of last four games with Kansas, beating Jayhawks in last two Big X tourneys; Kansas split last four visits here, losing LY 86-81. Cyclones won last three games (two on road); they won two of three Big X home games- all three were decided by 7 or less points. Big X favorites are 9-3 vs spread in games where spread was less than five points. Kansas lost last two road games, at West Virginia, Okla State.

VMI swept Furman LY, by 10-34 points; Keydets snapped five-game skid in last game Thursday- they're 3-11 vs D-I teams, with three wins vs non-D-I teams. VMI split two SoCom home games, losing by 4 to Wofford. Furman is 0-3 on SoCon road, losing by 1-4-3 points- its last three games overall were decided by total of eight points.. SoCon home underdogs are 7-4 against the spread.

Home side won both Davidson-Richmond games LY, in their first year as A-14 rivals; Wildcats lost 89-63 here, after winning 81-67 at home in first meeting. Davidson lost last five road games, losing three A-14 road tilts by 12-6-9 points, allowing 91 ppg. Richmond has been off for nine days since OT loss to crosstown rival VCU; Spiders lost four of last six games overall. A-14 home favorites of 6+ points are 11-7 vs spread.

Georgia Southern swept Appalachian State 83-46/77-58 LY in their first year as Sun Belt rivals. Eagles are 0-3 on Sun Belt road, losing by 14-20-3 points- two of their last four games went OT. ASU won three of last four games, beating Txas State/Georgia State in last two home tilts. Sun Belt home favorites of 5 or less points are 4-4 vs spread. ASU turns ball over 23% of time, 7th-worst in country.

Manhattan won its last 11 games with St Peter's, winning last four here; Jaspers are 7-3 in last ten games after a 1-7 start; they're 1-2 on road in MAAC, with only win at Canisius- their last seven games were decided by 8 or less points. St. Peter's is 6-2 in MAAC, winning both games at home by 4-9 points. MAAC home favorites of 6 or less points are 1-7 vs spread. Peacocks' MAAC opponents shoot just 41% inside the arc.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Previews, Streaks, Tips, Notes

Duke at Miami-Florida January 25, 7:00 EST

The Hurricanes moved to 15-3 (10-6-1 ATS) on the season, 4-2 (3-2-1 ATS) in the ACC with a 77-63 home win over Wake in their last game but pushed at the betting window as -13 point home chalk. In their last game, the Blue Devils snapped a three game slide defeating N.C. State 88-78 cashing as -4.5 point road favorite. Blue Devils carry a 15-5 (9-9-1 ATS) record into the contest along with a 4-3 SU/ATS mark within the conference.

Blue Devils upended 90-74 as -15.0 point home faves in Durham last year will be looking for pay back as -2.5 point road chalk. Tempting, but keep in mind Canes home-court advantage tilts the scales. They're 10-1 at home (6-2-1 ATS) , 8-2-1 ATS last eleven vs Blue Devils, 11-5-1 ATS vs. a team with a winning record

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Northfield Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 9 - Post: 8:40 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 86 - Purse:$7000 - NON WINNERS $5000 IN LAST 5 STARTS. NO. 9 STARTS FROM 2ND TIER NORTHFIELD


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 I'M THE PIED PIPER 2/1


# 4 UNTOLD LEGEND 12/1


# 6 DRAGON SPIKE 3/1


I'M THE PIED PIPER is the clear stand out bet in the eyes of the consortium. Take a look at this contender's average speed number of 90 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a competitive wager. This race horse looks dangerous considering the high class statistics. Don't toss out of any exotics. Really liked this horse's last race. Ran a big 86 speed rating. Major player. UNTOLD LEGEND - Considered a solid bet based solely on his high trip to the winner's circle percent. DRAGON SPIKE - Always excellent driver-trainer duet. 47 percent winners when they combine to do work. Analyzers love to play the driver of this gelding - fantastic win percentage within the recent past.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Woodbine

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 2 - Post: 7:50 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 67 - Purse:$14000 - 4 YEAR OLDS & YOUNGER, NW 1


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 7 ERJA 7/2


# 2 PERFECT ROAD 5/2


# 1 CROWN CLASSIC 4/1


The selection in here is ERJA. The handicapping group noted a huge affair out of this horse last time. Looking for a repeat of that to score. PERFECT ROAD - Good for a win bet just off the fantastic prior class figures. Have to like this race horse. Could surely dominate this field given the 71 speed fig achieved in his last outing. CROWN CLASSIC - Has the look of a profitable play, averaging a nifty 70 speed figure. This contender has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 69 average class figure. Should play well for this one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Portland Meadows

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 14 - Stakes - 2.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $3000 Class Rating: 56

NATIONAL RACING CLUB 6 AUCTION SWEEPSTAKES 5 S. - FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. BY INVITATION ONLY. $10 TO ENTER. WEIGHT, 126 LBS. THE WINNER OF THE RACE WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY AUCTION IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE RACE WITH A NON-TRANSFERRABLE BREEDING TO GIACOMO FOR 2016 OR 2017.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 ISLAND DANCER 15/1


# 2 DIXIE DISCO 20/1


# 5 THAT'S A BINGO 3/1


I like ISLAND DANCER for this event particularly if the morning line of 15/1 holds. Looks to have a quite good class edge based on the recent company kept. Have to take notice when any horse makes a quick turnaround. This pony could surprise this lot at a decent number. DIXIE DISCO - The speedy return to the races points to a sound effort this time around. Horses who have been prepared to race at this distance and surface by Rodriguez have shown solid results as of late. THAT'S A BINGO - Trainers don't bring horses back this soon just for fun.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Turf Paradise

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 6 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $6300 Class Rating: 69

FOR CERTIFIED ARIZONA BREDS) FOR MAIDENS, FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. FOUR YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 9 MR. COCONUT 3/1


# 7 ROI SOLEIL 4/1


# 8 MISTER EXCHANGE 7/2


I favor MR. COCONUT here. He has been racing admirably recently while recording very solid Speed Figures. With Bourdieu controlling the reins on him, this gelding ought to be able to break out quickly for this race. Ran a strong last race. ROI SOLEIL - He has been running strongly as of late while recording sharp Equibase Speed Figures. Earnings per start at the distance/surface is a very good angle. This horse ranks at the top in this field of horses. MISTER EXCHANGE - Formidable average speed figures in dirt sprint races make this racer a definite contender. This gelding is coming back soon to race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Laurel - Race #3 - Post: 1:25pm - Maiden Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $20,000 Class Rating: 68

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 OPEN PIT (ML=7/2)
#7 WISE DAMES (ML=7/2)


OPEN PIT - This horse could be tough this time, especially since Rodriguez rode in the last race and now should be more familiar with this one. Although I sometimes have doubts about a racer who was beaten as the public choice in her last race, this filly got a solid speed figure and fits well here. This filly is certainly on the improve with speed ratings of 52, 60, 72 last three out. WISE DAMES - This equine fits one of my favorite angles. A racer that has a gate drill since her last race and gets the 'shades' on for today's race. That signals to me that the connections are looking for improvement. This horse's last race was out at Presque Isle Downs in a race with a class rating of 73. Dropping considerably in class rating this time out puts her in a solid position in this field. Another way to assign class is earnings per race. This thoroughbred has the uppermost in the field. I think she'll be close at the end.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 DE MILLIE (ML=5/2), #1A PINEY BLUES (ML=5/2), #6 KELLYESQUE (ML=3/1),

DE MILLIE - Don't think that this filly has value at 5/2 today. PINEY BLUES - Can't wager on this vulnerable equine in today's sprint of 5 1/2 furlongs. Hasn't even hit the board in a sprint race recently. KELLYESQUE - I'm always particularly concerned about any mount that earns her biggest speed fig on an 'off' track. Ran somewhat erratically last out on December 3rd at Penn National.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - WISE DAMES - This mare will be very focused today. Blinkers will do the trick.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #8 OPEN PIT on top if we're getting at least 3/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [7,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPER HIGH 5 WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #6 - Post: 3:04pm - Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,700 Class Rating: 78

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 PARKTOWN (ML=4/1)


PARKTOWN - When Bracho and Sullivan join forces on horses the ROI has been terrific at +47. A repeat of that last performance on May 20th where he garnered a fig of 87 looks good enough to win in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #10 LIME DROP KID (ML=3/1), #12 CORINTHIANS SECRET (ML=6/1), #4 MOUNT DIABLO (ML=6/1),

LIME DROP KID - Difficult to put your dough on the win end of any horse that finishes second and third as often as this participant does. The speed rating in the last race doesn't fit very well in this race when I look at the class rating of today's event. Mark this horse as a likely underpriced contender. CORINTHIANS SECRET - Registered a pedestrian speed figure last out in a $4,000 Claiming race on January 11th. Not likely to see an improved performance off of that rating. MOUNT DIABLO - Showed very little in the last event. Really don't expect any improvement today. Will be tough for this horse to beat this bunch off of that last speed rating. Improbable to improve enough to run a figure close enough to today's class figure, so put him on the possibly overvalued contestants list.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - PARKTOWN - First race back after being off 249 days. My historical data says he does well, coming back refreshed after an extended 'vacation'.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #8 PARKTOWN to win if we can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
8 with [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
8 with [1,2] with [1,2,4,5] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
8 with [1,2,4,5] with [1,2,4,5] with [1,2,4,5] Total Cost: $24

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 1/25 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 2,4,7/2,7,8/1,5,7/5,7,10/3 = $16.20

EARLY PICK 4: 5,7,10/3/1,3,7/2,8,9 = $27

LATE PICK 4: 2,8,9/1,5,7/3,5/5,8 = $36

MEET STATS: 206 - 635 / $1101.90 BEST BETS: 33 - 58 / $112.90

SPOT PLAYS: 16 - 58 / $183.80

Best Bet: DOMEDOMEDOME (5th)

Spot Play: NEW MIRACLE (6th)


Race 1

(4) WINDSONG LEOPOLD was a fast-closing 2nd on Thursday night and rates highly if he goes here on three day's rest. (2) ER QUINN wasn't far back in his first Woodbine start and many of these are probably easier; using. (7) TRISUN had a long trip last time now picks up Jamieson. He should be close here.

Race 2

(7) ERJA started up too late last time but did close some ground in a quick final 1/4. She can do here with a more aggressive steer. (8) MIAMI MAGIC had a decent opener and could also be put into the race earlier here. (2) PERFECT ROAD raced well last time and won't find an easier field in which to finally break his maiden.

Race 3

(7) HLDONTGHTTOYURDRMS is a big threat to take these all the way on the class drop. (5) JUSTICE JET raced well again last time and should offer a square price here. He should be flying late. (1) CHARLIE IS A JOKER drops after facing mostly Preferred types last week and is another to consider for Pick 5 tickets.

Race 4

(10) JUST HENRY raced huge last week to win first time off the claim making several moves to win and even from the 10-hole is a big threat to repeat here. (5) STIMULUS SPENDING closed well in a conditioned dash now gets reclassified in a conditioned claimer here; using. (7) BROADIES SONG fell just short to the choice last time and will be coming late again here.

Race 5

(3) DOMEDOMEDOME has been the dominant mare in this series so far and gets top billing in the final. Moiseyev is sure to drive her aggressively here. (4) ASPEN CALIFORNIA will likely revert to a closing style here which is a better approach for her and she could offer some value in the exacta. (2) LADY PING is unbeaten so far in the preliminary legs but hasn't faced the top two yet. Henriksen has driven this mare patiently so far vs. weaker. This is a bigger test.

Race 6

(7) NEW MIRACLE was sent hard from the outset and stung early last time but still raced decently. This looks like an easier assignment and he could do with a better trip. (1) LANCASTER PARK has been showing the signs late in his miles. He too faces easier. (3) TIGHTEN UP made a move into a quick 2nd 1/4 and paid the price late. He's another contender in a wide-open race.

Race 7

(8) J CS JAKE was an impressive winner last week and should be able to get good position early here; call to repeat in an evenly-matched field. (2) NOWUCIT NOWUDONT beat the choice last time now missed a week. This 22-time winner has a nose for the wire; using. (9) OLE JACK MAGIC was a big winner a class lower but will need to overcome the worst post to get into contention here.

Race 8

(5) FOREVER JUST makes his 2nd start in this class and should get a much better trip leaving from the middle of the gate. (1) FRESH N FAST takes a class drop and should get a better trip here; main threat to choice. (7) BLISSFUL YEARS improved last week and has popped at a big price here on more than one occasion; don't dismiss.

Race 9

(5) CHICAGO HANOVER squandered a big lead late last time when claimed. He looks best here and Hudon should provide an aggressive drive. (3) ONE WARRAWEE should get a good trip near the pace and is a threat to double up here. (7) AMBLE OVER HANOVER drops in class here and is a threat despite the outer post.

Race 10

(5) FIRST IMPRESSION set a quick early pace last time but was passed by the winner just past the 1/2 who went on to a big win; slight nod in a race that's tough to figure. (8) ALWAYS THERE went a long trip at London last time but almost won in this class here in December; consider. (7) CYNDALIANNE DUC has raced okay against mares and this class may actually be easier as she faces many weak foes here. (10) KABLOOIE has good tactical speed and is in with a shot but must get position early. (3) LOVES A CHALLENGE has a good in-the money record racing out of town and can grab a minor share here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 1/25 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

MEET STATS: 15 - 45 / $121.60

BEST BETS: 2 - 4 / $8.60


Best Bet: SHES A PANSATION (1st)

Spot Play: LAWGIVER HANOVER (5th)


Race 1

(3) SHES A PANSATION made a nice move on the final turn last out but flattened badly; she should be tighter tonight back on consecutive weeks. (1) MY CANDY has been blowing them out at Monticello. (4) OH SUGAR went evenly last week in a needed start.

Race 2

(3) TAC'S DELIGHT drops in class and also moves back to the mile distance; time to awaken. (6) WARRAWEE ONYX went a big trip at Freehold in his debut for the DiDomenico barn. (2) ASHLAKE went well with Brennan in the bike last out and he drives again.

Race 3

(1) SILOUETTE went a nice effort in defeat last out when Dube got in the bike and he gets the return call; big threat from this inside post. (4) BULLVILLE BREN just missed last week and she should be close up throughout. (8) RAVENNA STAR went a long trip last week and tired; Stalbaum draws outside again but should provide some value.

Race 4

(3) DOMINUS HANOVER added hobbles and qualified very nicely for her debut for new connections. Youngster may be ready to roll. (2) GLOBAL REVOLUTION was a nice second last week at a big price. (4) STAYIN STRONG debuts for Abbatiello tonight and he's had some live ones in his barn.

Race 5

(3) LAWGIVER HANOVER needed his last start, gets class, post relief and a switch to Brennan in the bike; take a long look in this competitive affair. (5) ARI ALLSTAR drops for Banca and will be involved at some point. (4) MAJOR TRICK is better than he's been showing.

Race 6

(7) PERSUASIVE ACTION was second best to a tough winner who drew off late; mare has the speed to overcome the tough post. (6) INSOMNIAC raced well a couple of times here late last season and debuts now for DiDomenico. (2) TAPIT qualified evenly and could land a share from the inside post.

Race 7

(5) BUGGER BRUISER raced decently to be second upon dropping to this level and he can move forward tonight. (4) V I P BAYAMA will likely take the money and should be aggressively handled by Lachance. (7) JAY BEES GRIN N finished very willingly last week from nowhere; post hurts again.

Race 8

(4) I AM THE COWBOY could not sustain a two-move effort last week; Allard trainee gets post relief tonight which can get him over the hump. (1) DREAMLANDS ART almost went coast to coast last out; he lands the best post and is the one to defeat. (5) SHADOW PLACE exploded from the three hole to score last out; he'll have to come from farther back tonight.

Race 9

(3) CAVIART LUCA showed good speed last out before getting shuffled; he can be forwardly placed again tonight. (1) KEYSTONE HONOR has been racing well for Laterza and is clearly the one to beat. (7) GOOD DAY MATE has back class but needs a way into the race.

Race 10

(4) FIERY LUSTRE N moves in a few slots off some no-chance tries; Bartlett may get aggressive in the Bamond trainee. (2) BRETT MCFAVREOUS dropped and popped last week and he does fit with this type. (6) GRAND MASTER is back at a level where he's been competitive in the past; price factor on exotic tickets.

Race 11

(5) STORMONT PARK went down the road and was a solid winner on last week's frigid night and he's sharp enough to repeat. (4) HOME'N DRY has talent but is erratic; Dube sticks with him. (2) CASH LEEBROOK didn't fire last week on the barn change; perhaps he shows more tonight.

Race 12

(5) BIN N HEAVEN exploded off the gate last week and dug in gamely late; Rohr trainee is eligible to repeat. (3) GIRLLOOKATTHATBODY can be forwardly placed again and sit a live close-up trip. (4) MYDELIGHT BLUECHIP can save ground, shake free and fire home for a share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Laurel (3rd) Kellyesque, 3-1
(8th) Sick Love, 7-2

Mahoning Valley (3rd) La Nina Bronca, 9-2
(4th) Tacky Angel, 3-1

Sam Houston (3rd) Lockout, 4-1
(7th) Beta Baby, 7-2

Turf Paradise (2nd) At My Discretion, 9-2
(6th) Roi Soleil, 4-1