Monday 3/14/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pistons (34-32) at Wizards (30-35)

Date: March 14, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

Stan Van Gundy was displeased with the Detroit Pistons' latest defensive effort, but his team padded its slim edge for an Eastern Conference playoff spot by excelling at the other end of the floor.

The Pistons have been stifled in recent matchups with Washington but could change that trend Monday night with the Wizards struggling to slow down opponents during a season-high skid.

Detroit (34-32) bounced back from a 118-103 loss at Charlotte on Friday with a 125-111 victory over Philadelphia the next day. The Pistons, averaging 113.3 points in a 3-1 stretch, matched a season high with 73 points in the second half against the 76ers while moving one game ahead of Chicago for eighth place in the East.

That wasn't enough to satisfy Van Gundy.

"We didn't play very well," said the Detroit coach, whose team has won seven of 10. "We didn't guard very well again. That's what's going to get us. It's going to be tough to beat good teams. We couldn't keep the ball in front of us. Our closeouts were terrible."

Detroit has averaged 92.0 points in three consecutive losses to Washington (30-35), including two this season. The Pistons fell 98-86 in the nation's capital Feb. 19 and 97-95 at home Nov. 21.

However, they'll face a Wizards team that's allowed an average of 110.8 points in a five-game losing streak. Washington gave up 41 in the fourth quarter of a 116-100 loss at Denver on Saturday, its second-highest total allowed in any period this season.

"We got a little complacent and let our foot off the gas. We got a little comfortable. Those guys hit a couple 3s and got a couple of stops. The rest is history," forward J.J. Hickson said. "We've got to do a better job as a team being locked in and knowing what we're playing for, the playoffs."

The Wizards dropped 3 1/2 games behind Detroit.

"This leaves us in a really bad position," point guard John Wall said. "We just keep digging ourselves a bigger hole with 17 games left. We have to go a remarkable 15-2, basically. We have got to find a way just to keep competing and keep fighting. I'm not going to quit, and I know my teammates aren't going to quit."

Washington played its third straight game without second-leading scorer Bradley Beal, whose status is unclear because of an ailing hip.

Beal has averaged 9.8 points and 33.3 percent shooting in his last four games against Detroit but scored 17 while making seven of 10 shots Feb. 19.

Wall has averaged 26.3 points in his last four home matchups.

Pistons forward Tobias Harris had 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting Feb. 19, three days after being acquired from Orlando. Harris, averaging 17.7 points in 12 games for Detroit, scored 21 on Saturday.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 23 points against the Sixers, giving him 47 in the past two games. Reggie Jackson scored 24 while making eight of 11 on Saturday.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Grizzlies (39-27) at Rockets (33-33)

Date: March 14, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

Attempting to maintain their hold on a playoff spot, the Houston Rockets appear to have caught their next opponent at the perfect time.

The Rockets hope to take advantage of a depleted Memphis Grizzlies roster when they open an important homestand Monday night.

Houston (33-33) begins a three-game stay at the Toyota Center tied with sliding Dallas for seventh in the Western Conference, but only two games ahead of ninth-place Utah. The Rockets improved their standing with three straight wins on a five-game trip that ended with Saturday's 125-109 loss to red-hot Charlotte.

The Rockets' first home game since March 2 may feel as unfamiliar as the opponent, as the Grizzlies will have a much different look than when these teams last met in Memphis on Jan. 12. Marc Gasol and Mario Chalmers have since suffered season-ending foot injuries and the Grizzlies traded two other starters from that contest, Jeff Green and Courtney Lee, last month.

Gasol and Chalmers, who has since been waived, are far from Memphis' only ailing players. The Grizzlies played Saturday at Atlanta without Mike Conley (Achilles), Zach Randolph (knee), Brandan Wright (knee), Vince Carter (calf) and Chris Andersen (shoulder), and it's unclear whether any of them will be available on Monday.

The litany of injuries forced Memphis (39-27) to sign three former D-League participants - Ray McCallum, Alex Stepheson and Briante Weber - to 10-day contracts last week. Weber started a second straight game in Conley's place during the 95-83 loss to the Hawks, while McCallum and Stepheson became the 24th and 25th Grizzlies to play in a game this season - the most in the NBA.

Memphis unsurprisingly struggled against Atlanta's tough defense, shooting 34.7 percent.

'We're challenged offensively right now,' coach David Joerger said. 'Part of it is fatigue but most of it is that (they) are a really good team and we just struggled to get the ball in the hole.'

Memphis, still comfortably fifth in the West despite the heavy roster turnover, could have trouble keeping up with a Houston team that's fifth in the league in scoring (105.8 points per game) and is averaging 109.6 per game in 11 outings since the All-Star break.

The Rockets haven't been good from the perimeter of late, however. They're shooting 25.0 percent from 3-point range over their last six and finished 5 of 26 from beyond the arc for a second straight night in Saturday's defeat.

"Our guys fought and they gave it what they had and I think (Saturday) was one of those nights that they didn't have it," interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff said.

James Harden will try to bounce back from a 2-of-14, 12-point performance against Charlotte. The All-Star guard is averaging 29.0 points on 53.2 percent shooting in three season matchups with Memphis and had 40 in a 102-93 home loss to the Grizzlies on Nov. 25.

The Rockets got another efficient performance from Dwight Howard, who has shot 74.4 percent from the field while averaging 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds over his last four. He compiled 17 points and 14 rebounds to complement Harden's 25 points in a 107-91 win at Memphis on Jan. 12.

Memphis, which has won two of this season's meeting, still has a couple of healthy veterans to rely on. Lance Stephenson had 18 points against Atlanta after scoring a career-high 33 in Friday's 121-114 victory over New Orleans, while Matt Barnes is averaging 15.3 points over his last four.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Trail Blazers (35-32) at Thunder (44-22)

Date: March 14, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

The Portland Trail Blazers are hopeful they will play well on a difficult road trip while the Oklahoma City Thunder are enduring some recent woes, including some poor play at home.

It figures to be an entertaining affair as superstar guards Damian Lillard and Russell Westbrook match up Monday night as the Thunder and Trail Blazers meet in what could be a playoff preview.

Portland (35-32) begins a four-game trip that includes visits to San Antonio, New Orleans and Dallas. The Trail Blazers are seeking to avoid a third five-game road losing streak this season.

'It's going to be a tough trip,' Lillard said. 'We've got to go out there and be ourselves.'

Oklahoma City (44-22) may not be as formidable as expected after losing for the eighth time in 12 games, 93-85 on the road to the Spurs on Saturday. That came one night after a 99-96 loss to Minnesota that was the Thunder's fourth defeat in five home games.

Westbrook finished with nine turnovers Saturday for his second-worst total. He only made 5 of 16 shots for 19 points while Kevin Durant led the way with 28.

"We have to start making better decisions, starting with myself," Westbrook told the Thunder's official website. "Find ways to get guys the ball and make a better decision. I don't want to put us in a position that creates problems from us turning the ball over."

These teams have split two meetings and the Thunder currently have the Western Conference's third-best record and the Trail Blazers are sixth, meaning they would match up in the first round.

If such a series materializes, the highlight would probably be how Lillard and Westbrook fare against each other. Neither played well in Oklahoma City's 106-90 home victory Dec. 16, with Lillard making 6 of 20 shots for 20 points and Westbrook making 5 of 15 for 13 points with five assists.

They were more productive in Portland's 115-110 home win Jan. 10. Westbrook had 25 points and 15 assists while Lillard scored 31 points, including five 3-pointers in the last 3:07 as the Blazers established a season best with 19 baskets from beyond the arc.

Durant has totaled 52 points in the season series. He's averaging 30.7 points in his last nine games, but the Thunder have won just three of them.

Oklahoma City matched its lowest point total Saturday and shot below 40.0 percent for only the sixth time by finishing at 38.3. Still, the Thunder led by two entering the fourth quarter.

"You can overcome a tough shooting night if you can defend at a high level," coach Billy Donovan said. "We didn't shoot the ball particularly well the entire game, our defense kept us in there."

The Blazers won for the second time in six games with Saturday's 121-84 rout of Orlando. Lillard scored 19 with 10 assists as six Portland players scored at least 10 one night after a 128-112 loss at Golden State.

"We're on the road a bunch this month and these games are that much more important," coach Terry Stotts said. "Coming off a tough loss to Golden State and going on the road, we know the importance of the game and this game in particular."

Lillard has totaled 36 points in his last two games after a three-game stretch in which he averaged 39.0.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Timberwolves (21-45) at Suns (17-49)

Date: March 14, 2016 10:00 PM EDT

The Minnesota Timberwolves opened their road trip by stunning one of the top teams in the Western Conference. They'll next face an opponent that's below them in the standings.

The Phoenix Suns, though, hung in against the league's best team in their latest game and will try to bounce back with a fourth consecutive home victory over the Timberwolves on Monday night.

Ricky Rubio's 3-pointer with 0.2 seconds left sent Minnesota (21-45) to a 99-96 victory over Northwest Division-leading Oklahoma City on Friday, its fourth in 25 road games and second in seven overall contests. Gorgui Dieng scored a career-best 25 points and the Timberwolves forced a season-high 24 turnovers in the opener of a four-game trek after getting nine in a 116-91 loss to San Antonio on Tuesday.

They allowed an average of 112.6 points in their previous 16 games.

"Think about it, (the Thunder are) averaging 110 points a game and we held them to 14 points below their average," coach Sam Mitchell said. "For these guys to step up and take the challenge on the road, and this is a tough building to play in, it was just a great win for us."

Minnesota next faces a team that's lost 33 of 38 overall and 16 of 19 on its own floor. The Suns (17-49), however, came within 5:41 of ending Golden State's NBA-record home win streak Saturday, succumbing 123-116 after leading by 10 late in the third quarter.

"They're a finished product. They're competing for championships. We're building and we're stuck in the beginning of our process, but we've had the right attitude and we're moving forward," Phoenix coach Earl Watson said. "We also understand that no one's going to give us anything in this league. We have to earn it. We're trying to build a reputation of playing hard."

Brandon Knight matched a career high with seven 3-pointers and scored 30 points in his first start since a nearly two-month absence due to a groin injury. He had 10 points and shot 2 of 9 in a 116-98 loss at Denver on Thursday.

"We saw the difference he makes on our team," Watson said.

Knight also made seven 3-pointers and scored 25 points in a 108-101 home win over the Timberwolves on Dec. 13. He had 20 points in a 117-87 defeat at Minnesota on Jan. 17.

The Timberwolves shot 56.5 percent in that game en route to their second victory in the past seven matchups.

Zach LaVine scored 28 points in the Minnesota's latest visit to Phoenix. He had nine Friday after averaging 18.7 in his previous seven contests.

Timberwolves leading scorer Andrew Wiggins has averaged 23.5 points in the last four games, going 6 of 11 from 3-point range.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cavaliers (47-18) at Jazz (31-35)

Date: March 14, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

The Cleveland Cavaliers have found plenty of wins and some 3-point shooting on their road trip. The latter certainly contributes to the former, and a lot of the credit can be linked to a recently acquired deep threat.

With Channing Frye - among others - heating up from downtown, the Cavaliers look to put the finishing touches on a sweep out West with Monday night's visit to the Utah Jazz.

Cleveland (47-18) acquired Frye from Orlando at the Feb. 18 trade deadline, but it seemed he was the odd man out of coach Tyronn Lue's rotation after being used sparingly his first three weeks.

Two weeks ago, the 10-year veteran was left on the bench twice and logged less than six minutes in another game. He said he was still living out of a Cleveland hotel room with his wife and two children at the time.

He seems to have found a home on the court out West. After making 1 of 3 3-pointers in 10 minutes during Wednesday's 120-111 win in Sacramento, Frye has hit 5 of 7 in each of the last two games.

He started in place of the injured Kevin Love on Thursday and made 8 of 10 shots overall for a season-high 21 points in 24 minutes of a 120-108 win over the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. Frye followed with 15 points in 20 minutes off the bench in the same arena in Sunday's 114-90 rout of the Clippers.

He added 12 rebounds between the two victories.

'Channing coming out and making those 3s kind of became contagious,' Lue said.

It spread quickly as the Cavs made 16 of 35 against the Lakers and matched a season high by draining 18 of 37 three days later.

Against the Clippers, J.R. Smith hit 5 of 8, LeBron James made 3 of 4 and Matthew Dellavedova sank both of his. That helped Cleveland make 18 3s in a single game for the fifth time in franchise history, all of which have come in the last two seasons.

'We're getting into form right now," said James, who sat out the fourth quarter Sunday. "We've got a great rotation going right now. The guys are healthy and we're just trying to play the game the right way.'

Cleveland improved to 20-6 against the Western Conference, including 10-4 on the road.

James finished with 31 points, eight assists and seven rebounds in a 118-114 home victory over Utah on Nov. 10, the Cavaliers' fifth win in the last six games of this series.

However, the Jazz (31-35) have taken five of the last six in Salt Lake City.

Utah is one of the league's top defensive teams by holding opponents to 97.3 points per game - just better than Cleveland's 97.5 - so finding space to shoot might be more difficult. However, Sacramento made 9 of 21 in Utah's 108-99 road win on Sunday.

That victory gave the Jazz two straight after dropping nine of 12 out of the All-Star break. They trail Houston and Dallas by two games for the West's final two playoff spots.

'This was a very important, a big-time win for us,' Rudy Gobert said. 'We have 16 games left and we're going to try to win all 16.'

Derrick Favors had 28 points and 14 rebounds against the Kings while Gordon Hayward scored 27.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pelicans (24-41) at Warriors (59-6)

Date: March 14, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

Stephen Curry can celebrate turning 28 with No. 60 overall and 49 in a row at home.

His Warriors can become the fastest team to reach 60 wins on his 28th birthday when they try to hand the New Orleans Pelicans a sixth straight road loss Monday night.

Golden State continued the best start in NBA history by improving to 59-6 with Saturday's harder-than-expected 123-116 home victory over lowly Phoenix. Curry scored 15 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter as the Warriors rallied from a nine-point deficit over the final 12 minutes.

"We've talked about it as a team," coach Steve Kerr said. "Every team we play in here is going to be excited for the opportunity to come in here and knock us off."

The Warriors extended their record home win streak and stayed one game ahead of the pace of the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, who set the league mark with 72 wins. Their 30-0 home record this season is second in the league to San Antonio's 32-0 mark.

Golden State learned before the game that top reserve Andre Iguodala will miss at least two weeks due to a sprained left ankle suffered in Friday's 128-112 win over Portland. His loss weakens a bench that will now see players such as Shaun Livingston, Brandon Rush and Marreese Speights get even more minutes.

"That's just something we're going to have to get adjusted to for however long he is out," Curry said. "We'll have to get prepared for that. But at the end of the day, we run the same offense, but it's one less playmaker, ballhandler."

Speights took advantage Saturday with a season-high 25 points in less than 18 minutes.

Curry will play on his birthday for the fourth time, losing the first two before he had 25 points and 11 assists last year in a 125-94 rout of New York.

Golden State clinched a second straight Pacific Division title when the Los Angeles Clippers lost to Cleveland on Sunday.

The Warriors have won eight straight at home over the Pelicans, including two victories in last year's playoffs. New Orleans (24-41) won't be returning to the postseason thanks to an injury-plagued campaign.

The Pelicans, coached by former Warriors assistant Alvin Gentry, are 0-3 on this trip following losses by 121-114 in overtime to Memphis on Friday and 103-92 to Milwaukee on Saturday. Jrue Holiday had seven turnovers each time, as New Orleans committed 17 against the Grizzlies and 16 versus the Bucks.

"To me I thought we had good effort after playing last night but I thought we just have to be more solid in what we're doing," Gentry said.

The coach says he has to be careful with Holiday because of the guard's injury history. The Pelicans will get a boost Monday if Norris Cole returns from a three-game absence due to a back injury.

'His back is still just a little bit too tight,' Gentry said. 'Hopefully, we'll get him back for the last two games on the trip.'

The Warriors beat the Pelicans twice in October in their first matchups since the playoffs, with Curry totaling 93 points and making 13 of 26 3-pointers.

New Orleans star Anthony Davis averaged 22.0 points and 32.4 percent shooting in those games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA knowledge
Monday's hot teams
-- Detroit won three of its last four games (2-5 last 7AU).
-- Hornets won their last seven games (5-1-1 last 7HF).
-- Miami on six of its last eight games (6-8 last 14HF). Denver won five of its last six games (7-3 last 10AU).
-- Toronto won five of its last six games (3-5 last 8HF).
-- Houston won three of its last four games (1-5 last 6HF).
-- Cavaliers won five of their last six games (7-2-1 last 10AF).
-- Warriors won nine of their last ten games (3-5 last 8HF).

Cold teams
-- Washington lost its last five games (3-7 last 10HF).
-- Mavericks lost their last five games (1-4 last 5AU).
-- Chicago lost six of its last eight games (3-8 last 11AU).
-- Memphis lost three of its last five games (3-5 last 8AU).
-- Portland lost four of its last six games (6-4 last 10AU). Thunder lost six of their last nine games (9-3 last 12HF).
-- Jazz lost seven of their last nine games (5-3HU).
-- Minnesota, Phoenix both lost five of their last seven games.
-- New Orleans lost seven of its last eight games (2-4-1 last 7AU).

Series records
-- Wizards won four of last five games with Detroit.
-- Mavericks won seven of last ten games with Charlotte.
-- Miami won five of its last seven games with Denver.
-- Bulls won their last eight games with Toronto.
-- Grizzlies won three of last four games with Houston.
-- Thunder lost four of last six games with Portland.
-- Cavaliers won five of last six games with Utah.
-- Suns won five of last seven games with Minnesota.
-- Pelicans lost their last six games with Golden State.

Totals
-- Under is 4-1-1 in last six Washington-Detroit games.
-- Six of last seven Charlotte games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Miami games went over the total.
-- Last six Chicago-Toronto games went over the total.
-- Five of last seven Houston-Memphis games went over.
-- Four of last five Portland games went over the total.
-- Last four Cleveland games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Minnesota-Phoenix games stayed under.
-- Four of last five New Orleans games went over total.

Back/backs
-- Cleveland covered six of its last eight if it played the night before.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Home Cookin'

Chicago Bulls at Toronto Raptors March 14, 7:00 EST

Home-court advantage is certainly something Toronto Raptors can tap into when Chicago Bulls pay a visit Monday evening. Raptors tough nuts to crack on Air Canada Center hardwood are 26-7 (18-15 ATS) in front of its friendly crowd. After Saturday's 112-104 victory vs. visiting Heat the Raptors enter this contest ridding a sparkling 15-1 (10-6 ATS) streak on home court outscoring visitors by 8.6 points/game.

Although, Toronto has dropped all three matchups this season (0-3 ATS) and eight straight straight (0-8 ATS) vs Chicago the lean is still Raptors as they catch Bulls at less than full strength with two of their top players, Butler (22.4), Rose (16.7) questionable. Another betting nugget favoring Raptors' is that life on the road has been a nightmare for Chicago Bulls recently. In their last eleven away from the United Center the result has been one win, ten losses outscored 11.4 per/game with a money-draining 3-8 mark at the betting window.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Monticello Raceway

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


Race 1 - Post: 12:50 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 79 - Purse:$2700 - N/W $260 P/S L/5 OR P/S IN 2016 $4300 P/C L/S AE: N/W 5 PM LT AE: $5000 CLM W/A


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 ELLEN'S STREAK 5/2


# 4 NOWERLAND NATHAN 4/1


# 2 GAMBLER'S VACATION 3/1


We've got an instinct ELLEN'S STREAK is going to get the win. The wagering panel saw this horse's name in a magazine. Call it our coffee house play, worth a small wager. Feel the need for speed, this entrant has been turning in some exemplary speed ratings averaging around 85. With a 78 avg class number, this harness racer has one of the most favorable class advantages in the field of starters. NOWERLAND NATHAN - Not many folks know, but the 4 hole here at Monticello Raceway has been terrific for a well above average win percentage. He has been battling very well and the TrackMaster Speed Ratings are among the most competitive in the bunch. GAMBLER'S VACATION - Can't miss this entrant, especially in exotics. Pace rankings put him in the mix this time. Should be considered in here if only for the really good TrackMaster Speed Rating earned in the most recent affair.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 2 - Post: 7:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 78 - Purse:$20000 - PETTICOAT SERIES 3& 4 YEAR OLD FILLIES & MARES 2ND PRELIMINARY 1ST DIVISION


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 BEAS IDEAL 7/5


# 1 HEAVENLY HILL 5/2


# 3 IM IN LUV 3/1


BEAS IDEAL is the clear stand out wager in the eyes of the consortium. Not many knocks against this fine animal, let's give her a shot. Nice driver/trainer, winning 21 percent of the time. Looks to be a super wager. Bartlett is racking up the wins these days. Top notch win stat makes this nice horse our choice. HEAVENLY HILL - More wins than normal have been earned by contenders lining up behind the 1 position at Yonkers Raceway. This horse looks strong. Take a good look at the 78 average speed figure. IM IN LUV - Many bettors will recognize the amazing TrackMaster speed fig in the last contest. Stacks up against any horse in this field. Superb driver Kakaley should find the pace of today's competition to this filly's liking - could be a good wager.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Fair Grounds

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


Race 7 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $41000 Class Rating: 88

FOR ACCREDITED LA BRED MAIDENS, FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 LADY LORETTA 3/1


# 8 MILLION DOLLAR DAY 4/1


# 4 LOVE THIS DANCE 6/1


LADY LORETTA has a decent shot to take this race. Her 87 average has this filly with among the best speed figures in here. Should be given a shot based on the decent speed figure earned in the last contest. Looks to have a very strong class edge based on the latest company kept. MILLION DOLLAR DAY - She looks very strong in this slot and I expect will be on the lead or close at the halfway point. Recorded a solid Equibase speed fig in the most recent race. Can run another good one in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Parx Racing

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 5.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $20000 Class Rating: 72

FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE FEBRUARY 14 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 ONTHEWHISTLE 3/1


# 2 BURDEN OF PROOF 2/1


# 1 PORTENT 9/2


I think ONTHEWHISTLE is a formidable choice. Has run solidly when racing a dirt sprint race. Torres has a win percent of 18 over the last 30 days. This horse is at the top in this field in earnings per start at the distance/surface. BURDEN OF PROOF - He has been running solidly and the Equibase Speed Figures are among the top in this group of horses. He has a good opportunity for this race as handler, Farro, has sharp win clip with horses going this distance. PORTENT - Will almost certainly compete admirably in the early speed clash which bodes well with this group of horses. With a solid 72 Equibase Speed Figure last time out, will surely be a factor in this contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turf Paradise - Race #6 - Post: 3:41pm - Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,000 Class Rating: 86

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#5 DR TUFF (ML=7/2)
#3 PROUD COMET (ML=4/1)
#6 REXBURG (ML=6/1)
#4 NAOMI'S GIFT (ML=5/2)


DR TUFF - This gelding is in superb physical condition right now. Ran third in the last race and comes back quickly. PROUD COMET - You always have to be on the lookout for money making jockey/handler combinations; we have it right here. Have to make this gelding a solid contender; he comes off a strong effort on February 29th. You have to really like that latest race rating, 86, which is the best most recent race speed rating of this field. This animal has increased his speed ratings from a fig of 72 to 80 to 86 in a row. REXBURG - You always have to be on the patrol for revenue generating rider/conditioner teams; we have one right here. I just may give this one a good shot. Should rebound off last race where he did run off the board, but was within five lengths at the finish line. NAOMI'S GIFT - After the contest aboard this horse on March 1st, the jock is going to be acquainted with the gelding much better. This gelding is in nice form. Finished first on Mar 1st. I like this gelding. Has the uppermost EPS (earnings per start) in this one.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 SILVERTRON (ML=5/1), #8 BEAR FAMOUS TRIP (ML=8/1), #1 SEE ZO GO (ML=8/1),

SILVERTRON - Would have to move up off that fifth place finish last time out to make an impact here. The speed figure last out doesn't fit very well in this race when I look at the class rating of today's race. Mark this horse as a vulnerable competitor. BEAR FAMOUS TRIP - Tough to like the downward moving flow (82/67/63) of speed ratings. SEE ZO GO - No favorable outcomes for this mount in a short distance race over the last couple months tells me that this gelding is in a formidable circumstance doubtful that the speed figure he earned on Dec 22nd will hold up in this race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #5 DR TUFF to win if you can get odds of 4/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Skip

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #7 - Post: 3:32pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $8,600 Class Rating: 75

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 BUNDLER (ML=6/1)
#6 AUTUMN EMBER (ML=7/2)


BUNDLER - Many positive 'vibrations' attached to this pony and his connections. AUTUMN EMBER - A campaigner coming back this soon after a solid outing is a good sign. This jockey and conditioner have a beneficial ROI when they work together.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 RED ALE (ML=5/2), #8 PONTUAL (ML=4/1), #2 AWARDING (ML=6/1),

RED ALE - The probable favorite is vulnerable here with the lack of morning activity. This gelding earned a speed rating in his last race which probably isn't good enough in today's race. PONTUAL - This racer just hasn't looked sharp recently. When checking today's Equibase class figure, he will have to register a better fig than last time around the track to be competitive in this dirt route. AWARDING - When scrutinizing today's class figure, he will have to record a better speed rating than last time around the track to vie in this dirt route.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #1 BUNDLER on the nose if you can get odds of 2/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 3/14 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

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

EARLY PICK 4: 3/2,5,7/1,4,6,7/2,8,10 = $36

LATE PICK 4: 2,8,10/3,4,6/2,5,6/3,6 = $54

MEET STATS: 289 - 908 / $1498.30 BEST BETS: 46 - 85 / $162.90

SPOT PLAYS: 20 - 85 / $208.00

Best Bet: PRINCESS DIAMOND (4th)

Spot Play: PLATOON SEELSTER (3rd)


Race 1

(7) INTENDED STYLE chased better last week and now drops to a level where he should be very competitive. (5) SOVERIEGN WEALTH was a sharp winner in his first try in this class last week and is a logical contender here again. (3) FIRST IMPRESSION made two moves in a strong performance last time but was chased down late. He is another contender to consider in a contentious opener.

Race 2

(3) FLAHERTY broke his maiden in style last time and can repeat here if he isn't pushed too hard early. (7) FANCOURT was out a long way in his debut and wore the choice down late now has missed a week. He is the main threat. (2) ROCK THE DREAM has improved dramatically in his past two starts. He should get a piece of this.

Race 3

(2) PLATOON SEELSTER has looked good in both 2016 starts and gets a slight nod here at what should be a square price. (3) BAGS FOR ALL chased the leader last time but couldn't close the gap late as the pace accelerated. She should be prominent throughout here. (4) MURMUR HANOVER rates highly with the class drop and the stable has been hot of late although this one could be overbet relative to his chances.

Race 4

(3) PRINCESS DIAMOND has been very impressive in his last two starts. He should notch a three-peat here. (5) SMALLTOWN TERROR has raced very well in the non-winners of two class while improving his final 1/4 speed. He is one to fear here. (2) BAD AS CREEK escapes Easy Lover Hanover who has won four straight. He should be heard from here.

Race 5

(5) ASTERIX showed much more in his second start of the year and rates highly here in a weak field. (7) LEGIONSOFANGELS continues to show good early speed which he will carry all the way one of these times. (2) MERCHANDISER is bred to be very good but note the trainer/driver had one here Monday night that broke before the start. I would be looking to try to beat this colt if he takes a lot of action at the windows.

Race 6

(7) CHEYENNE REIDER meets some rivals that should set the table for his potent closing kick here; top call. (4) WOGGY ROCKS rode a perfect trip to an upset win last time but he could get a similarly good trip here. (6) DIGGIN IN was an easy winner when dropped into a conditioned claimer and he was taken by trainer Shepherd. These claiming handicap foes are quite a bit tougher, however.

Race 7

(10) WINE PHOTO plunges to the lowest class where he had success in January and February. He could take these coast-to-coast despite the post. (2) GIRL DRAMA is always a contender in this class but needs a pace meltdown to pass them all it seems. She should make the tri though. (8) CLASS ME NICE has been racing great in London now debuts for a trainer who hasn't had a starter in 2016 up to this point. He can take a share here.

Race 8

(3) FOREVER JUST raced his eyeballs out last week but was nailed late by a class-dropper. He should be tough here. (4) DIALAMARA has returned from a break in sharp form and should be a big factor here. (6) TOMITTA BAYAMA is the best closer in this field and would benefit from any early battling.

Race 9

(5) ZEUS LIGHTNING went a monster uncovered trip last week and still held 2nd behind the hottest trotter on the grounds. Jamieson drives him aggressively every time and will get him home first soon. (6) ETRUSCAN HANOVER - winner of 5 of his last 6 - is in the best form of his life and shouldn't be taken lightly here. (2) FEARLESS MAN was cooked in a speed duel with the choice last time. He could get a better trip up front this time.

Race 10

(6) TWOMICKEYTRIP drops to the bottom class here and could wire these. (3) COMEANDGETSOME made two moves last time and finished well after chasing a quick early pace. He rates highly here. (4) JAKE LOEWEN has faced better in the non-winners of three class and should not be taken lightly here. (9) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE picks up Jamieson here and he has done well with him in the past; upset chance. (1) LIVE AND LEARN is a good one to use for the bottom of exotic wagers here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 3/14 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 63 - 252 / $451.50

BEST BETS: 6 - 20 / $24.70

Best Bet: PAN STREET USA (9th)

Spot Play: WESTERN BAYAMA (8th)


Race 1

(2) FASHION DRAGON moves inside and the sophomore gelding has good early zip; can get the job done at his best. (4) NO SHAME BLUE CHIP took a tough break turning for home last out; catches a weak group and could have a say in the outcome. (1) M A SMASH ON Sharp qualifier at The Meadows puts this guy right in the mix.

Race 2

(1) HEAVENLY HILL retains the rail, raced evenly to hold on for third last time out; can boss these with a favorable trip. (3) IM IN LUV is clearly knocking at the door based on her last three tries. (4) BEAS IDEAL went down the road in her qualifier upstate and has a fondness for the Hilltop.

Race 3

(3) OH SUGAR has flashed good early pace in her last two starts; good to see Brennan keeps the faith and hopefully he will get this gal to the wire first. (1) WINNERS OVER got the job done wire to window at the Big M last out. (5) AMAZON IDEAL was up on the rim at the 3/4 pole but could not go forward as the chalk last time around.

Race 4

(3) SKEEBALL gets a much better post to work with and she has tactical speed to rate and score over these; we shall see. (1) BIN N HEAVEN keeps on picking up checks and maybe the rail will put her back into the winner's circle. (2) ARABELLA J did not fire in her latest but is very capable of having a say with these.

Race 5

(5) BROWN BRINNY took charge right from the start but did not have enough gas in the tank to get the job done last out; figures to get involved again and this gal must be considered for win honors. (2) LITTLE MISS SPORTY has wheeled off three straight victories; main threat. (7) NORTHERN BEAUTY has sharp speed and is clearly not out of this.

Race 6

(6) TWIN B HONOUR leaves the 8-hole and was very wide turning for home last out but could not make a dent against some of these; there is plenty of pace in here and with some luck, she can mow them down at her best. (1) SPECIAL PACKAGE Sharp for the victory in the series last time around so door number one will only make her tough again. (5) CAPELA has scored three in a row including the first over score by a neck last out.

Race 7

(4) BEACHY DREAM showed some early speed in his last try; if this gelding gets a favorable trip he can make tonight a winning one. (7) PIER HO TEMPTATION took the pocket route home for glory in his latest. (1) HELLO HOT SHOT should fare well from the fence; we shall see.

Race 8

(7) WESTERN BAYAMA Quite consistent gelding was first up approaching the 3/4 pole but could not get to the winner Grand Master last time out. 4-year-old knows how to get the job done from the outside slot for team Brennan/Burke; could greet the cameraman for pictures. (5) RANGERS SURESHOT did show some speed in his last try but will need a better trip to contend with these; maybe. (3) JUSTICE MY WAY gets post relief and that might help his cause.

Race 9

(4) PAN STREET USA led every step of the way but got nailed for the score in deep stretch last time out; has three seconds in a row so clearly this gelding is knocking at the door; threat at his best. (1) GRAND THEFT Jersey invader should appreciate the move to the half-mile oval and the fence. (6) EVERY INTENTION almost took them down the road but was caught at the wire recently; not out of this.

Race 10

(3) HIGHVIEW CONALL N Gelding did not fire in his last start but has shown some early zip two trips ago; capable at his best to top these. (5) E STREET PLAN was very sharp to miss the victory by only a neck. (4) GRAND MASTER was sent by Bartlett down the road for all the glory in his most recent outing.

Race 11

Will try (6) BUBBIE BOY to put it all together. Gelding could not go forward in his last start when he was on the rim at the 1/2 mile pole; could have a favorable trip tonight, should that be the case he will mow these down for win honors. (2) SHADOW PLACE mild bid to land the show spot in his last try and the 2-hole should help his cause. (3) DREAMLANDS ART showed life in his latest and must be considered in all the exotic slots.

Race 12

(1) FLOAT ON BY was sitting in the pocket but could get to the winner Capela last time out. She is knocking at the door based on her last two starts; stays on the rail and the assignment once again goes to Mr. Brennan; the pick. (6) WARRAWEE QUALLY came first over at the 1/2 mile pole and was grinding out towards the wire to miss the score by a neck. (7) MYSTICAL NECTAR has good late punch so the 7-hole should not be a problem for her to contend with these.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Fair Grounds (6th) Vasilisa the Wise, 7-2
(11th) Frontierjustice, 8-1


Mahoning Valley (4th) Evening Concerto, 3-1
(8th) Denali Holy Bull, 4-1

Parx Racing (7th) Bird Prince, 9-2
(9th) Saratoga Angel, 7-2


Turf Paradise (4th) Supah Spirit, 8-1
(7th) I B Sexie Sadie, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday's six-pack

Six prominent basketball coaches who were student managers in college......

-- Lawrence Frank-- Assistant coach with the LA Clippers.

-- Buzz Williams-- Has Virginia Tech on rise in the ACC.

-- Will Wade, VCU-- His Rams play Oregon State in NCAAs.

-- Matt McCall, Chattanooga-- Worked for Billy Donovan for ten years.

-- Bruce Pearl-- Donned the BC Eagle costume for couple games in college.

-- Dan McHale, Eastern Kentucky-- Was a manager in college at Kentucky.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sharp Bettor

Sharp Bettor's Free Pick for Monday, March 14, 2016, NBA.

Portland at Oklahoma City: The under is 22-6-2 in the last 30 meetings in Oklahoma City.

Play Portland/OKC Under the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Roz Wins

Roz's Monday, March 14, 2016, Free NBA Pick:

Cavs at Utah: Cleveland played at the LA Clippers yesterday, but the Cavaliers are 8-17-2 ATS in their last 27 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. And the home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

Play Utah.