STATSYSTEMS SPORTS STAT/SHEETS, 1/17/14
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
INFORMATION WORTH BETTING ON EACH DAY
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***** Friday, 1/17/14 NBA Information *****
(ALL RESULTS ATS) - Against The Spread - and most recent, unless noted otherwise. Each and every day during the 2013-14 National Basketball Association season we will analyze all of your daily basketball action, featuring all our Highly-Rated (Situational & Match-up) Power Trends, along with some of our Situational Analysis (Betting Systems) that pertain to some of that days match-ups.
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•Hot Teams
-- Clippers won six of last seven games (8-4 AF).
-- Toronto won three of its last four games (5-1 last six HF).
-- Washington won four of its last six games (1-3 last four HF). Bulls won six of their last seven games (6-5 AU).
-- Pistons won last two games, after losing previous seven.
-- Memphis won five of last six games (8-2 last 10 HF). Sacramento won four of its last five games (4-2 last six AU).
-- Portland won five of its last seven games (6-2 AU). San Antonio won last six games, covered three of last four at home.
-- Nuggets won six of their last seven games (4-8 HF).
-- Mavericks won three of their last four games (9-2 last 11 AU).
-- Warriors won 11 of last 13 games (0-3 vs. spread last three).
•Cold Teams
-- Knicks lost last two games, by 10-28 points, after winning previous five games before that.
-- Orlando lost its last nine games (1-8 vs. spread). Bobcats lost eight of last ten, covered one of last five games.
-- Miami lost its last three games, by 10-9-17 points (1-6 last seven AF) 76ers lost four of last five games.
-- Minnesota lost three of its last four games (2-4 last six AU).
-- Lakers lost 12 of their last 13 games (2-5 last seven AU). Celtics lost nine of last ten games (3-0 last three HF).
-- Jazz lost their last four road games.
-- Cavaliers lost seven of their last nine road games (7-10 AU).
-- Suns lost three of their last four games (6-2 last eight HF).
-- Thunder lost three of their last four games.
•Totals
-- Five of last seven Clipper games went over the total; six of last eight New York games stayed under.
-- Nine of last eleven Charlotte road games went over.
-- Five of last six Miami road games went over total.
-- Six of last eight Toronto home games went over total.
-- Last three Washington home games went over total.
-- Last four Boston home games stayed under the total.
-- Last eleven Detroit home games went over the total.
-- Last seven Sacramento road games went over total.
-- Six of last seven Portland road games went over total.
-- Last four Denver home games went over the total.
-- Five of last six Dallas road games stayed under total.
-- Six of last seven Oklahoma City games stayed under.
•Series Records
-- Clippers won last three games with Knicks, by 14-13-13 points.
-- Bobcats won three of last four games with Orlando.
-- 76ers lost 19 of last 20 games with Miami (9-7 vs. spread last 16).
-- Raptors won eight of last nine games with Minnesota.
-- Bulls lost three of last four games with Washington.
-- Lakers won four of last five games with Boston.
-- Pistons lost eight of last nine games with Utah.
-- Kings lost nine of last ten games with Memphis.
-- Portland won 12 of last 16 games against the Spurs.
-- Nuggets won six of last eight games with Cleveland.
-- Suns won last two games with Dallas (2-14 in previous 16).
-- Thunder won eight of last ten games with Golden State.
•Situational Trends of The Day
-- DETROIT is 15-2 ATS (+12.8 Units) after 2 straight games outrebounding opponent by 15 or more since 1996.
The average score was DETROIT 98.9, OPPONENT 91.2.
-- PORTLAND is 16-4 OVER (+11.6 Units) after scoring 105 points or more 2 straight games this season.
The average score was PORTLAND 110.3, OPPONENT 104.3.
-- NEW YORK is 25-7 (+17.3 Units) against the 1rst half line off 2 consecutive road losses by 10 points or more since 1996.
The average score was NEW YORK 48.9, OPPONENT 45.4.
-- BOSTON is 20-4 UNDER (+15.6 Units) the 1rst half total in home games in January games over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was BOSTON 43.5, OPPONENT 43.1.
-- RANDY WITTMAN is 36-12 UNDER (+22.8 Units) after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games as the coach of WASHINGTON.
The average score was WITTMAN 92.8, OPPONENT 95.4.
•Matchup Trends of The Day
-- PHOENIX is 20-7 ATS (+12.3 Units) versus teams who make 6 or more 3 point shots/game on the season this season.
The average score was PHOENIX 106.0, OPPONENT 102.0
-- DETROIT is 22-7 OVER (+14.3 Units) versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game on the season this season.
The average score was DETROIT 99.9, OPPONENT 103.3.
-- PHOENIX is 14-3 (+10.7 Units) against the 1rst half line versus good 3 point shooting teams - making >=36% of their attempts this season.
The average score was PHOENIX 52.8, OPPONENT 50.9.
-- LA LAKERS are 13-2 OVER (+10.8 Units) the 1rst half total in road games versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game on the season this season.
The average score was LA LAKERS 53.3, OPPONENT 57.3.
-- JEFF HORNACEK is 13-0 OVER (+13.0 Units) the 1rst half total in home games versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game on the season as the coach of PHOENIX.
The average score was HORNACEK 58.2, OPPONENT 54.4.
•Situation Analysis of The Day
-- Play Against - Underdogs with a money line of +135 to -155 (GOLDEN STATE) - revenging a loss where opponent scored 110 or more points against opponent off an upset win of 10 points or more as a road underdog.
(28-2 over the last 5 seasons.) (93.3%, +25.5 units. Rating = 5*)
The average money line posted in these games was: Team favored with a money line of: -122.5
The average score in these games was: Team 101.9, Opponent 91.9 (Average point differential = +10)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0, +1 units).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (6-0, +6 units).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (70-25, +19.5 units).
-- Play Against - Road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (GOLDEN STATE) - after going over the total by more than 18 points in their previous game, a good team (60% to 75%) playing a team with a winning record.
(32-6 over the last 5 seasons.) (84.2%, +25.4 units. Rating = 4*)
The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is : (33-6 over the last 5 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Team favored by 0.3
The average score in these games was: Team 100.5, Opponent 93.9 (Average point differential = +6.6)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 24 (63.2% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (19-2).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (80-50).
-- Play Over - Home teams where the total is greater than or equal to 210 (DENVER) - after having won 4 of their last 5 games, a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) playing a losing team.
(26-5 since 1996.) (83.9%, +20.5 units. Rating = 3*)
The average total posted in these games was: 214.9
The average score in these games was: Team 113.9, Opponent 107.8 (Total points scored = 221.7)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 15 (48.4% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (2-3).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (8-5).
-- Play Against - Road teams where the 1rst half line is +1.5 to -1.5 (CHARLOTTE) - average defensive team (92-98 PPG) against a poor defensive team (98-102 PPG), after a close loss by 3 points or less.
(42-9 since 1996.) (82.4%, +32.1 units. Rating = 5*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 0.2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 52.3, Opponent 48.6 (Average first half point differential = +3.7)
The situation's record this season is: (3-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (7-1).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (13-1).
-- Play Over - All teams where the first half total is greater than 100 (NEW YORK) - after trailing in their previous game by 15 or more points at the half against opponent after scoring 105 points or more 3 straight games.
(23-4 over the last 5 seasons.) (85.2%, +18.6 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 105.4
The average first half score in these games was: Team 52.9, Opponent 56.4 (Total first half points scored = 109.3)
The situation's record this season is: (1-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (6-2).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (51-43).
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Friday's Match-ups
#801 CHICAGO @ #802 WASHINGTON
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, CSN Chicago, CSN Mid-Atlantic Washington - Line: Wizards -4.5, Total: 184) - One lucky team will walk away from Friday’s game as a .500 team when the Chicago Bulls visit the Washington Wizards. The Wizards had little trouble with the Bulls in Chicago in a 102-88 triumph on Monday and followed that up by destroying the Miami Heat 114-97 to pick up a fourth win in six games on Wednesday. The Bulls needed three overtimes to edge the Orlando Magic 128-125 on the road Wednesday and are struggling on defense.
Strength on the defensive end has been Chicago’s calling card since Tom Thibodeau took over as the coach but the Magic shot 51 percent from the field on Wednesday after the Wizards had gone off at 52 percent on Monday. “We had a hard time getting stops,” Thibodeau told reporters after Wednesday’s game. “And they made some tough shots. We’ve got to get our defense together.” Washington managed only 28 points in the paint in Monday’s win over the Bulls but found soft spots in the mid range.
•ABOUT THE BULLS (18-19 SU, 16-21-0 ATS): Chicago is down two All-Stars from the beginning of the season but still has Joakim Noah, who put up season-best outputs of 26 points and 19 rebounds in the win on Wednesday and has taken it upon himself to keep the team from letting up. “We grind hard every day, and we give it our best effort every day,” Noah told ESPNChicago.com. The assumption was that the Bulls had given up on a title chance with Derrick Rose injured when they traded away Luol Deng, but the team has gone 3-1 since that deal and is 6-1 since the start of January.
•ABOUT THE WIZARDS (18-19 SU, 21-16-0 ATS): Washington led 43-18 after the first quarter on Wednesday and ran the defending champion Heat off the floor in an easy win. John Wall and Nene each had nine of the Wizards’ 30 assists in that game and seven players reached double figures as coach Randy Wittman again went with a tight rotation of eight players. Washington is thriving at the defensive end as well, holding opponents to 97 points or fewer in each of its last four wins, and forced 18 turnovers at Chicago on Monday to help keep the Bulls from getting back into the game.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Wizards have taken three of the last four in the series, including the last two at home.... Noah is averaging 15 rebounds over the last five games.... Washington F Trevor Ariza (illness) is questionable for Friday.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, WASHINGTON covered the spread 555 times, while CHICAGO covered the spread 445 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, WASHINGTON won the game straight up 645 times, while CHICAGO won 334 times. In 1000 simulated games, 523 games went over the total, while 449 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, WASHINGTON covered the first half line 523 times, while CHICAGO covered the first half line 477 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 537 games went over first half total, while 463 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--WASHINGTON is 39-32 against the spread versus CHICAGO since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 39-32 straight up against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--44 of 71 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 36-32 versus the first half line when playing against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--38 of 71 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bulls are 0-6 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--Under is 20-6 in the last 26 meetings.
--Under is 16-4-1 in the last 21 meetings in Washington.
--Underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--Road team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bulls are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
--Bulls are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 4-0 in Bulls last 4 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.
--Wizards are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 Friday games.
--Under is 5-1 in Wizards last 6 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 7-0 in Wizards last 7 games following a SU win of more than 10 points.
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#803 MIAMI @ #804 PHILADELPHIA
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, Sun Sports Miami, CSN Philadelphia - Line: Heat -10, Total: 211) - The Miami Heat look to snap a rare three-game losing streak and recover from their one of their biggest losses of the season when they continue a lengthy road trip Friday at Philadelphia. The Heat have dropped the first three legs of the six-game journey, including a 114-97 setback at Washington on Wednesday. Given four days of rest before the contest, Miami spotted the Wizards a 34-point lead before a late push fell short.
The Heat's first loss of the season came at Philadelphia on Oct. 30 in a game that saw Dwyane Wade sit for Miami. That was part of a 3-0 start for the Sixers, who have gone just 10-25 since but managed to snap a four-game slide with a 95-92 win over Charlotte on Wednesday. Evan Turner scored 23 points and Michael Carter-Williams added 20 as Philadelphia improved to 1-2 on its four-game homestand.
•ABOUT THE HEAT (27-11 SU, 16-22-0 ATS): Wade was one of the primary issues in the loss to the Wizards, recording his lowest scoring total in two months with eight points. That came after a full five days of rest for the star swingman, who also missed the last meeting with the Sixers last season. Miami was given a bit of a boost in the long-awaited return of center Greg Oden, who had six points and a pair of rebounds in his first action since Dec. 5, 2009.
•ABOUT THE 76ERS (13-25 SU, 16-22-0 ATS): Philadelphia was able to overcome 24 turnovers and some poor free-throw shooting (11-for-20), in its win over Charlotte, a troublesome issue entering a contest with the Heat. Miami leads the Eastern Conference and ranks second in the NBA in forced turnovers, while the Sixers give the ball up more than anyone in the league. Philadelphia actually won the turnover battle by a 19-18 margin in the first meeting between the teams.
•PREGAME NOTES: Miami has allowed at least 100 points in three straight games for the first time all season.... Philadelphia C Spencer Hawes is averaging 16.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and six assists in his last three games.... The Sixers allow a league-high 10.1 3-pointers while the Heat rank fourth at 8.7.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, MIAMI covered the spread 516 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the spread 460 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, MIAMI won the game straight up 771 times, while PHILADELPHIA won 208 times. In 1000 simulated games, 525 games went under the total, while 455 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, PHILADELPHIA covered the first half line 496 times, while MIAMI covered the first half line 474 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 520 games went under first half total, while 480 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PHILADELPHIA is 42-28 against the spread versus MIAMI since 1996.
--MIAMI is 42-28 straight up against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--39 of 65 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--MIAMI is 35-34 versus the first half line when playing against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--35 of 67 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings.
--Under is 11-4 in the last 15 meetings in Philadelphia.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Heat are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 8-1 in Heat last 9 Friday games.
--Over is 5-0 in Heat last 5 games following a S.U. loss.
--Under is 5-1-1 in 76ers last 7 overall.
--Over is 6-1 in 76ers last 7 Friday games.
--Over is 4-1-1 in 76ers last 6 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
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#805 MINNESOTA @ #806 TORONTO
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, FSN Minnesota, TSN Toronto - Line: Raptors -2, Total: 205.5) - The Toronto Raptors have risen to prominence in the weak Eastern Conference on the strength of one of the league's top defenses. That unit will face a significant test Friday night as the Raptors entertain the Minnesota Timberwolves. Toronto rallied from a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit but ultimately fell short in an 88-83 loss to Boston on Wednesday, while the Timberwolves come in looking to bounce back from consecutive losses to San Antonio and Sacramento.
The Raptors enter Friday's action allowing the third-fewest points in the league — a development that should bode well for a team that faces the league's easiest remaining schedule as it relates to opposition won-lost record. Toronto is the only team in the Atlantic Division with a winning record, and one of only four East teams with a positive point differential. Minnesota ranks second in the NBA at 107.1 points per game, but has had trouble on the defensive end.
•ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (18-20 SU, 20-18-0 ATS): Minnesota was expected to contend for a playoff spot, but while the offense has been remarkably efficient, defensive meltdowns have prevented the Timberwolves from taking the next step toward respectability. "We've got to face fact that we're a .500 team," head coach Rick Adelman told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. "Right now we're below .500. I told them (Thursday) that if you think you're a playoff team why don't you just forget it, because you haven't proven that you are."
•ABOUT THE RAPTORS (19-18 SU, 22-15-0 ATS): Toronto looks more like a playoff team with each passing game — even when it ends in a loss. The Raptors did well to wipe out most of an 18-point second-half lead, limiting the Celtics to 15 fourth-quarter points and ultimately falling short only due to a terrible performance from the free-throw line (12-for-25). Toronto is in the midst of a stretch that will see it play seven consecutive games against teams with sub-.500 records — and it has performed well to date, going 3-1.
•PREGAME NOTES: Toronto has won four straight meetings, holding Minnesota under 100 points three times over that span.... Timberwolves PF Kevin Love averages 16.4 points and 10 rebounds in seven career games versus the Raptors.... Minnesota is 11-5 against the East.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, MINNESOTA covered the spread 500 times, while TORONTO covered the spread 469 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, TORONTO won the game straight up 529 times, while MINNESOTA won 432 times. In 1000 simulated games, 561 games went under the total, while 439 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, MINNESOTA covered the first half line 490 times, while TORONTO covered the first half line 475 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 569 games went under first half total, while 431 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--TORONTO is 23-9 against the spread versus MINNESOTA since 1996.
--TORONTO is 21-11 straight up against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--16 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--TORONTO is 16-16 versus the first half line when playing against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--20 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Timberwolves are 4-17 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
--Timberwolves are 1-8 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Toronto.
--Under is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.
--Home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Favorite is 12-2 ATS in the last 14 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 6-0-1 in Timberwolves last 7 games following a S.U. loss.
--Over is 9-1-1 in Timberwolves last 11 games following a ATS loss.
--Over is 6-0-1 in Timberwolves last 7 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Raptors are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games.
--Raptors are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a ATS loss.
--Raptors are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a S.U. loss.
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#807 LA CLIPPERS @ #808 NEW YORK
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, Prime Ticket Los Angeles, MSG New York - Line: Clippers -3.5, Total: 201.5) - The Los Angeles Clippers are playing their best ball since star point guard Chris Paul's injury as they set out of a seven-game road trip against Eastern Conference teams. The Clippers, who have won four straight and six of seven, begin the trek at New York on Friday. The Knicks are licking their wounds after a 117-89 drubbing at Indiana on Thursday and have lost two straight following a season-high five-game winning streak.
The Clippers showed some fight in Wednesday's 129-127 win over visiting Dallas, wiping out a 17-point deficit in the final 4 1/2 minutes. They hope to carry that momentum into their second long road trip of the season after a disappointing 4-3 trip in early December. "We want to play better, we really do, even without Chris," coach Doc Rivers told the team's website. "I thought we were very inconsistent in our play, and you have to be a consistent team on the road." The Knicks are 3-10 against Western Conference teams, including a 1-6 mark at home.
•ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (27-13 SU, 23-17-0 ATS): Los Angeles lost its first game without Paul (shoulder) but has won four straight since. Now the Clippers have shooting guard J.J. Redick back from a six-week absence with an injured right hand, and he poured in a career-high 33 points against the Mavericks. Redick's outside shooting touch is key to keeping defenses from packing in to stop big men Blake Griffin (22.3 points, 10.3 rebounds) and DeAndre Jordan (9.5 points, 13.4 rebounds).
•ABOUT THE KNICKS (15-24 SU, 16-23-0 ATS): New York's injury woes continued Thursday, as forwards Kenyon Martin and Amar'e Stoudemire both left with sprained ankles and are expected to miss some time, and rookie guard Tim Hardaway aggravated an injury to his surgically-repaired left wrist. They join guard Pablo Prigioni (foot) and forward Metta World Peace (knee) on the growing injured list. The mounting injuries leave Carmelo Anthony (26.1 points, 8.7 rebounds) without much of a supporting cast.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Clippers signed F Hedo Turkoglu on Thursday. The 6-foot-10 veteran averages 11.9 points over his 13-year career but was limited to 11 games because of injuries last season and has not played in the NBA this season.... After allowing an average of 89 points during their five-game winning streak, the Knicks have give up 225 points in consecutive losses.... Los Angeles has scored at least 70 points in the first half in two straight games and three times this season.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS covered the spread 554 times, while NEW YORK covered the spread 446 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS won the game straight up 629 times, while NEW YORK won 343 times. In 1000 simulated games, 542 games went under the total, while 458 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS covered the first half line 540 times, while NEW YORK covered the first half line 427 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 522 games went under first half total, while 478 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--NEW YORK is 18-14 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--LA CLIPPERS is 18-15 straight up against NEW YORK since 1996.
--16 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--NEW YORK is 21-11 versus the first half line when playing against LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--17 of 32 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings in New York.
--Road team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
--Underdog is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Friday games.
--Over is 5-0 in Clippers last 5 road games.
--Under is 4-0 in Clippers last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--Under is 6-1 in Knicks last 7 overall.
--Under is 4-0 in Knicks last 4 home games.
--Under is 7-1 in Knicks last 8 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
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#809 CHARLOTTE @ #810 ORLANDO
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, SportSouth Charlotte, FSN Florida Orlando - Line: Bobcats -1.5, Total: 188) - The injury-depleted Orlando Magic attempt to snap a nine-game losing streak when they host the struggling Charlotte Bobcats on Friday. The Magic dropped a 128-125 decision in triple overtime to Chicago on Wednesday without leading scorer Arron Afflalo and top rebounder Nikola Vucevic after leading by 15 in the third quarter. The Bobcats, who lost at home to Orlando on Dec. 11, have only two wins in their last 11 games to drop out of the top eight in the Eastern Conference.
Afflalo missed the previous three games with an ankle injury while the Magic stand 0-11 overall this season without the 7-0 Vucevic, who sat out the last five with a concussion. Orlando’s Victor Oladipo scored a season-best 35 on Wednesday, adding to his case for NBA Rookie of the Year honors. Charlotte’s inside force Al Jefferson should be a key figure after he scored only 10 points with Vucevic in the lineup last month.
•ABOUT THE BOBCATS (16-24 SU, 21-17-2 ATS): Charlotte, which stands 28th in the league in scoring, was beaten on the boards and shot under 40 percent from the field in the 95-92 loss at Philadelphia on Wednesday. Kemba Walker leads the Bobcats at 19 points and 4.9 assists while Jefferson (17.6) and Gerald Henderson (15.5) have also put up good numbers offensively. The return of forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist from a broken hand should help, although he is 3-of-14 from the field his first two games back.
•ABOUT THE MAGIC (10-29 SU, 16-23-0 ATS): Afflalo, who is averaging 20.8 points, expects a return to the lineup soon while Vucevic (13 points, 11 rebounds) is out indefinitely. Oladipo has averaged 18 points over the last seven contests, including his 57-minute performance Wednesday in which he made 15-of-24 from the field and dished out eight assists. Veteran guard Jameer Nelson scored 52 in the last two games with a sore finger while Tobias Harris and Glen Davis are both averaging at least 18 points the last three contests.
•PREGAME NOTES: Magic C Kyle O’Quinn had his second double-figure scoring outing of the season in the last game with 12 points.... Charlotte stood fourth in the league in average points allowed (96.6) through Wednesday, but has given up 107.6 in January.... Orlando is coming off its fourth triple-overtime game in franchise history and first since 1998.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, ORLANDO covered the spread 564 times, while CHARLOTTE covered the spread 436 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, ORLANDO won the game straight up 516 times, while CHARLOTTE won 466 times. In 1000 simulated games, 493 games went over the total, while 479 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, ORLANDO covered the first half line 530 times, while CHARLOTTE covered the first half line 432 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 521 games went over first half total, while 479 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--ORLANDO is 21-20 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--ORLANDO is 29-12 straight up against CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--23 of 41 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--ORLANDO is 21-19 versus the first half line when playing against CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--21 of 39 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bobcats are 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
--Bobcats are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Orlando.
--Under is 19-9-1 in the last 29 meetings.
--Under is 6-2-1 in the last 9 meetings in Orlando.
--Underdog is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
--Road team is 16-5 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bobcats are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 road games.
--Over is 5-0 in Bobcats last 5 games following a ATS loss.
--Over is 6-0 in Bobcats last 6 games following a S.U. loss.
--Magic are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games overall.
--Magic are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Over is 4-0 in Magic last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
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#811 LA LAKERS @ #812 BOSTON
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, TWC SportsNet Los Angeles, CSN New England Boston - Line: Celtics -6, Total: 204.5) - Rajon Rondo returns to the court for the first time in nearly a year when the Boston Celtics host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Rondo tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee last January and is slated to play about 18 to 20 minutes in his return engagement as Boston seeks its second consecutive win following a nine-game losing streak. The Lakers have lost six straight games and 12 of their last 13.
Rondo was pronounced ready to go after a workout with the D-League’s Maine Red Claws on Wednesday and participated in practice with the Celtics on Thursday. “I don’t think we can expect him to be Game 7 Rajon Rondo,” Celtics coach Brad Stevens told reporters after Thursday’s practice. “This is part of this process of getting back to full-go, and now the next step is to play a maximum number of minutes in a game.” Los Angeles will be without forward Nick Young, who was suspended for one game after throwing a punch at Phoenix guard Goran Dragic in Wednesday’s loss, which was the opener of a seven-game road trip.
•ABOUT THE LAKERS (14-25 SU, 20-18-1 ATS): Tensions within the team have surfaced a couple times during the losing stretch and were apparent again in the loss to the Suns when Young was fouled hard and none of his teammates came to his defense. “What I’m mad about is it was 1-on-5,” Young said. “I felt like if someone would have gotten in the middle of everything, it wouldn’t have escalated as much.” Coach Mike D’Antoni didn’t agree with Young’s sentiment. “You don’t fight in this league,” D’Antoni said. “It wouldn’t help us to lose two or three more guys.”
•ABOUT THE CELTICS (14-26 SU, 20-19-1 ATS): Rondo’s return at the midway point of the season provides hope Boston can go on a sustained run and get back into the Eastern Conference playoff mix. The Celtics have badly missed the star point guard and his presence prompts a renewed level of enthusiasm for Friday’s game. “I think, obviously, the community is going to be really excited, as they should be, and our players will be really excited,” Stevens said. “And I think it’s appropriate for everyone to temper their expectations of him, especially early on in this comeback.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Los Angeles has won seven of the last 10 regular-season meetings.... Boston F Jared Sullinger had 25 points and 20 rebounds in Wednesday’s win over Toronto to post the franchise’s first 20-20 outing since Kevin Garnett accomplished it on Nov. 2, 2007.... The Lakers have allowed an average of 120.7 points during their six-game skid.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, LA LAKERS covered the spread 521 times, while BOSTON covered the spread 460 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, BOSTON won the game straight up 594 times, while LA LAKERS won 390 times. In 1000 simulated games, 712 games went under the total, while 288 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, LA LAKERS covered the first half line 502 times, while BOSTON covered the first half line 456 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 646 games went under first half total, while 332 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--BOSTON is 24-18 against the spread versus LA LAKERS since 1996.
--LA LAKERS is 26-19 straight up against BOSTON since 1996.
--26 of 44 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--BOSTON is 26-19 versus the first half line when playing against LA LAKERS since 1996.
--23 of 45 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings.
--Under is 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings in Boston.
--Underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
--Road team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Lakers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Lakers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--Over is 7-1 in Lakers last 8 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Celtics are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Friday games.
--Celtics are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Under is 4-0 in Celtics last 4 home games.
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#813 UTAH @ #814 DETROIT
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, ROOT Sports Utah, FSN Detroit - Line: Pistons -6.5, Total: 202) - The Detroit Pistons seek just their second three-game winning streak of the season when they host the Utah Jazz on Friday. The Pistons, who had a four-game run earlier in the season, have clicked offensively in their last two affairs, including a 110-108 win over Phoenix on Saturday. Josh Smith continued his solid play of late with 25 points, capped by a game-winner with 1.2 seconds left, as Detroit picked up its first win in seven home games against Western Conference opponents.
The Jazz own the worst record in the West but are a respectable 9-8 in their last 17 games. They opened their three-game road trip Wednesday with a 109-105 loss at San Antonio, their fourth straight defeat away from home. Utah has dominated the series of late by winning 14 of the last 15 meetings, including a 103-90 decision late last season that saw Gordon Hayward come off the bench to produce 13 points.
•ABOUT THE JAZZ (13-27 SU, 18-20-2 ATS): Utah has been playing better after a horrid 1-14 start, but it has no chance to be at its best without Hayward, who is battling a hip flexor. Hayward, who leads the team in scoring and steals and ranks second in assists, has missed three straight games. Alec Burks has done his best to fill the gap by averaging 23.3 points while starting in place of Hayward, who could return Friday night.
•ABOUT THE PISTONS (16-22 SU, 16-21-1 ATS): While Smith has been solid recently, averaging 18.8 points and 10.2 rebounds this month, point guard Brandon Jennings has struggled a bit with several poor shooting nights. The streaky Jennings made up for it with a 18 assists — the most in the NBA this season — in the win over the Suns. Jennings still missed all five of his 3-pointers, a season-long issue for a squad that ranks last in the league by a wide margin with a 31.2 percent mark from the arc.
•PREGAME NOTES: Jazz C Enes Kanter has three of his nine double-doubles in the last five games.... Pistons F Greg Monroe is averaging 20.3 points and 10 rebounds over his past three home games.... Opponents shoot 47 percent from the floor against Utah, the second-highest mark in the league, while Detroit's foes come in at 46.2, the fifth-highest
percentage.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, UTAH covered the spread 530 times, while DETROIT covered the spread 470 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, DETROIT won the game straight up 643 times, while UTAH won 342 times. In 1000 simulated games, 680 games went under the total, while 305 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, UTAH covered the first half line 532 times, while DETROIT covered the first half line 468 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 626 games went under first half total, while 344 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--UTAH is 19-12 against the spread versus DETROIT since 1996.
--UTAH is 24-8 straight up against DETROIT since 1996.
--19 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DETROIT is 21-11 versus the first half line when playing against UTAH since 1996.
--18 of 31 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Jazz are 14-4 ATS in the last 18 meetings.
--Jazz are 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Detroit.
--Over is 11-3 in the last 14 meetings.
--Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings in Detroit.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Jazz are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 Friday games.
--Over is 4-0 in Jazz last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 4-0 in Jazz last 4 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Pistons are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Pistons are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 7-0 in Pistons last 7 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#815 SACRAMENTO @ #816 MEMPHIS
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, News10 Sacramento, SportSouth Memphis - Line: Grizzlies -5.5, Total: 200.5) - The Memphis Grizzlies have surged back into the Western Conference playoff picture as they seek a season-high fifth consecutive victory when they host the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Memphis has climbed within three games of eighth place in the West and can move above .500 for the first time since it was 9-8 on Dec. 3. The Kings have a long way to go to become a playoff contender, but they've made some key acquisitions throughout the season and have won four of five.
The Grizzlies weathered 23 games without reigning Defensive Player of the Year Marc Gasol and have won the first two games since his return. Their latest win was an 82-77 triumph over lowly Milwaukee, but the fact they rallied in the fourth quarter impressed coach David Joerger. "A couple of weeks ago we don't pull this game out," Joerger told reporters. "I'm proud of the growth that we've made. That's a happy locker room." The Kings also have shown signs of maturing, though they still have some room to improve defensively as they've allowed 100 or more points in 12 of the past 14 games.
•ABOUT THE KINGS (14-23 SU, 16-20-1 ATS): Sacramento has lauded former Memphis star Rudy Gay (20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds) for his leadership since being acquired from Toronto, and the veteran also has averaged 20.8 points in 17 games with the Kings. He has been a positive influence on young stars like DeMarcus Cousins (23.4 points, 11.6 rebounds) and Isaiah Thomas (19.2 points, 6.1 assists). Forward Derrick Williams, another midseason acquisition, has averaged 9.8 points in 24 games since coming over from Minnesota, where he was scoring just 4.9 points per contest in a limited role.
•ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (19-19 SU, 17-20-1 ATS): Point guard Mike Conley has blossomed, averaging career highs in points (18) and assists (6.5) and providing a complement to Memphis' bruising frontcourt duo of Gasol (14.7 points, 6.7 rebounds) and Zach Randolph (17 points, 10.4 rebounds). Gasol hasn't quite been himself since returning from a sprained MCL; he scored 12 points in his return against Oklahoma City but was scoreless in 14 minutes at Milwaukee. Newcomer Courtney Lee has stepped into the starting backcourt with Tony Allen (wrist) out and is averaging 13.6 points in five games since being acquired from Boston, including 16 points per contest in three starts.
•PREGAME NOTES: Randolph has posted 21 double-doubles in his past 29 games and has 187 with Memphis, two shy of Pau Gasol's franchise record.... Sacramento rookie G Ben McLemore (7.8 points) left Wednesday's game with a sprained ankle but isn't expected to miss any time.... The Grizzlies are 50-7 since the start of the 2011-12 season when scoring 100 or more points, and three of the seven losses have come in overtime.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, SACRAMENTO covered the spread 517 times, while MEMPHIS covered the spread 483 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, MEMPHIS won the game straight up 611 times, while SACRAMENTO won 366 times. In 1000 simulated games, 546 games went over the total, while 454 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, SACRAMENTO covered the first half line 495 times, while MEMPHIS covered the first half line 465 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 489 games went under first half total, while 479 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--MEMPHIS is 36-26 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO since 1996.
--SACRAMENTO is 40-25 straight up against MEMPHIS since 1996.
--34 of 62 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--SACRAMENTO is 33-28 versus the first half line when playing against MEMPHIS since 1996.
--37 of 61 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings in Memphis.
--Kings are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings in Memphis.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 7-0 in Kings last 7 road games.
--Over is 5-1 in Kings last 6 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--Over is 9-2 in Kings last 11 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Grizzlies are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games.
--Over is 4-0 in Grizzlies last 4 Friday games.
--Over is 4-0 in Grizzlies last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#817 PORTLAND @ #818 SAN ANTONIO
(TV: 8:30 PM EST, CSN Northwest Portland, FSN Southwest San Antonio - Line: Spurs -5.5, Total: 212.5) - The San Antonio Spurs own the best record in the Western Conference and are enjoying a six-game winning streak. The Portland Trail Blazers, who visit the Spurs on Friday, sit 1 1/2 games back in second place in the conference and have recovered from a rough patch with three straight victories. The Spurs are averaging 108.7 points during their winning streak and put up at least 100 in each of the last 10 games.
San Antonio’s recent scoring binge puts it right on the pace with the Trail Blazers, who lead the NBA in scoring at an average of 109.1 points. They put up 20 of their 108 in the last 5:24 on Wednesday to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers and used big fourth quarters to knock off Orlando and Boston as well on the 3-0 homestand. Portland gets a much more difficult test on the four-game road trip that begins with the Spurs and takes it through Dallas, Houston and Oklahoma City over five days.
•ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (29-9 SU, 22-16-0 ATS): Portland hoists up more 3-pointers than all but one team in the league and even LaMarcus Aldridge got into the act on Wednesday, connecting from beyond the arc to spark the end-of-game surge. Aldridge got a little closer to the rim down the stretch and scored six straight points to give the Blazers the lead and cap off a 32-point, 18-rebound effort. “He knew it was winning time and I just felt like you could see him with the determination of making a play at the rim,” coach Terry Stotts told reporters. Aldridge is averaging 29.7 points and 13.3 boards over the last three games.
•ABOUT THE SPURS (31-8 SU, 20-19-0 ATS): San Antonio’s players are plenty familiar with “winning time” and coach Gregg Popovich gave Tony Parker the credit for holding the team together in a 109-105 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday after Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan had gone to the bench. Parker had 25 points and nine assists in the win and has put up at least 25 points in three of the last four contests. The win kicked off a four-game homestand, and the Spurs own a 16-5 record in their own building.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Blazers have taken the last three in the series, including a 136-106 rout in their last trip to San Antonio on Mar. 8.... Portland is 14-0 when holding its opponents under 100 points.... Ginobili is averaging 13.5 points in two games since returning from a hamstring injury.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, PORTLAND covered the spread 524 times, while SAN ANTONIO covered the spread 476 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, SAN ANTONIO won the game straight up 622 times, while PORTLAND won 350 times. In 1000 simulated games, 645 games went over the total, while 355 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, PORTLAND covered the first half line 497 times, while SAN ANTONIO covered the first half line 470 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 594 games went over first half total, while 384 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PORTLAND is 34-33 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 40-28 straight up against PORTLAND since 1996.
--34 of 67 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 34-33 versus the first half line when playing against PORTLAND since 1996.
--36 of 68 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Trail Blazers are 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
--Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings.
--Home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 6-1 in Trail Blazers last 7 road games.
--Over is 6-1 in Trail Blazers last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
--Over is 7-1 in Trail Blazers last 8 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Spurs are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 4-0 in Spurs last 4 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.
--Over is 7-1-1 in Spurs last 9 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
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#819 DALLAS @ #820 PHOENIX -
(TV: 9:00 PM EST, FSN Southwest Dallas, FSN Arizona Phoenix - Line: Mavericks -1, Total: 210) - Two teams that should be in the mix for one of the final Western Conference playoff spots throughout the second half of the season square off Friday when the Phoenix Suns host the Dallas Mavericks. The Suns have been surprisingly good over the first half but Wednesday’s victory over the Los Angeles Lakers was just the team’s third in eight games since losing guard Eric Bledsoe (knee). Dallas blew a big lead in falling to the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday.
The Mavericks’ fourth-quarter collapse in a 129-127 loss to the Clippers marked the fourth time this season they have lost after leading by 17 or more points. Dallas led 123-106 before Los Angeles closed with a 23-4 dash to hand the Mavericks a devastating defeat. Phoenix is playing the second of a five-game homestand and received solid outings from Gerald Green (season-high 28 points) and Markieff Morris (24) in the 121-114 win over the Lakers. Green scored 22 points against Dallas when the Suns posted a 123-108 victory on Dec. 21.
•ABOUT THE MAVERICKS (23-17 SU, 22-18-0 ATS): Dallas again displayed a lack of killer instinct with the loss to Los Angeles in a contest that appeared to be well in hand. Coach Rick Carlisle has seen the pattern of miscues and is frustrated by the high number of unintelligent mistakes. “We made some really bad mental mistakes and gave them a chance and they took advantage of it,” Carlisle said after the loss to the Clippers. “It’s as hard a lesson as you’re going to learn in this league.”
•ABOUT THE SUNS (22-16 SU, 25-12-1 ATS): Green was 12-of-18 from the field against the Lakers to shake out of a two-game slump that saw him go 7-of-23 from the field, including 1-of-14 from 3-point range. Green is receiving more minutes due to Bledsoe’s absence. and Phoenix needs him to tone down the number of subpar shooting performances. “I felt like I wasn’t settling for my jumper,” Green said after the big showing against Los Angeles. “Coach (Jeff Hornacek) is still telling me to shoot the ball, so I’m going to continue to do that. I just tried not to take as many 3s as I normally do.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Phoenix has won the last two meetings after Dallas rolled off 14 victories in the previous 16 matchups.... Mavericks F Shawn Marion (shoulder) scored 14 points against the Clippers after missing the previous four games.... Suns G Leandro Barbosa (shoulder) missed Wednesday’s game but is expected to be available against the Mavericks.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, PHOENIX covered the spread 578 times, while DALLAS covered the spread 402 times. *EDGE against the spread =PHOENIX. In 1000 simulated games, PHOENIX won the game straight up 553 times, while DALLAS won 422 times. In 1000 simulated games, 622 games went under the total, while 357 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, PHOENIX covered the first half line 581 times, while DALLAS covered the first half line 419 times. *EDGE against first half line =PHOENIX. In 1000 simulated games, 595 games went under first half total, while 369 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--DALLAS is 41-36 against the spread versus PHOENIX since 1996.
--DALLAS is 42-36 straight up against PHOENIX since 1996.
--40 of 78 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DALLAS is 41-37 versus the first half line when playing against PHOENIX since 1996.
--38 of 75 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Mavericks are 11-3 ATS in the last 14 meetings.
--Mavericks are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Phoenix.
--Favorite is 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings.
--Over is 10-4 in the last 14 meetings in Phoenix.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Mavericks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Under is 4-0 in Mavericks last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Under is 4-0 in Mavericks last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Suns are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Under is 6-1 in Suns last 7 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 3-0-1 in Suns last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
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#821 CLEVELAND @ #822 DENVER
(TV: 9:00 PM EST, FSN Ohio Cleveland, Altitude Denver - Line: Nuggets -6.5, Total: 213) - Two clubs chasing the eighth-place teams in their conferences square off Friday when the Denver Nuggets host the Cleveland Cavaliers. The streaky Nuggets, who are just two games behind eighth-place Dallas in the Western Conference, have won six of seven following a 123-116 victory at Golden State on Wednesday. Cleveland lost 108-96 at Portland the same night and is 2 1/2 games out of eighth in the Eastern Conference.
The Nuggets dropped eight straight from Dec. 17-Jan. 1 but have rediscovered their offensive prowess recently, averaging 117.7 points over their past seven contests. Denver has won four straight at home, where it is 11-8 overall and 5-2 against Eastern Conference teams. Cleveland has split its first four games since acquiring Luol Deng from Chicago, as the newest Cavalier has averaged 18.5 points and scored in double figures in each game with his new team.
•ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (14-25 SU, 17-22-0 ATS): The addition of Deng (19 points, 6.5 rebounds) to complement Kyrie Irving (21.4 points, 6 assists) gives Cleveland a pair of dynamic offensive players that could lead it to the playoffs. Center Anderson Varejao has played well since Andrew Bynum fell out of favor and was subsequently traded; the Brazilian big man has grabbed 11 or more rebounds in nine of the last 10 games, averaging 14 boards over that stretch. Frontcourt mate Tristan Thompson also has been tough inside recently with double-doubles in five the past six contests and seven of the past 10.
•ABOUT THE NUGGETS (20-18 SU, 18-20-0 ATS): Denver has been dinged with injuries all season but has a healthy core of six players averaging double-digit scoring. Point guard Ty Lawson (18 points, 8.7 assists) leads the way, and backcourt mate Randy Foye (10.5 points) has topped 20 points in three of the past five games and is averaging 17.1 points and shooting 47.2 percent from 3-point range this month. Forward J.J. Hickson (11.5 points, 9.1 rebounds) has recorded three straight double-doubles, including a 13-point, 24-rebound performance against the Warriors.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Cavaliers are 2-2 on their road trip, which wraps up Friday. They have not had a winning trip of more than one game since taking two of three away from home from Feb. 23-26 last year.... The Nuggets have made 12 or more 3-pointers in five of their last six games — all wins.... Denver has posted a winning record in January the past five years and is off to a 6-2 start this month.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
--In 1000 simulated games, DENVER covered the spread 529 times, while CLEVELAND covered the spread 471 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, DENVER won the game straight up 684 times, while CLEVELAND won 288 times. In 1000 simulated games, 770 games went under the total, while 209 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, DENVER covered the first half line 521 times, while CLEVELAND covered the first half line 479 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 711 games went under first half total, while 289 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--CLEVELAND is 17-15 against the spread versus DENVER since 1996.
--DENVER is 18-14 straight up against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--18 of 32 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DENVER is 16-16 versus the first half line when playing against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--19 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
--Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Denver.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Cavaliers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 Friday games.
--Under is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 4-0 in Nuggets last 4 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 4-0 in Nuggets last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
--Over is 4-0 in Nuggets last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
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#823 GOLDEN STATE @ #824 OKLAHOMA CITY
(TV: 9:30 PM EST, ESPN, CSN Bay Area Golden State, FSN Oklahoma - Line: Thunder -1.5, Total: 207.5) - The Golden State Warriors nearly set an NBA record as the first team to sweep a seven-game road trip ending last week and are hoping to bring some of that magic back out when they travel to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the opener of a two-game excursion on Friday. The Warriors fell at home on Wednesday after a long break but have won 11 of their last 13. The Thunder are coming off a strong performance in Houston.
Golden State and Oklahoma City have already played a pair of memorable games this season, with the Thunder earning a 113-112 overtime victory at home on Russell Westbrook’s buzzer-beater on Nov. 29 after Andre Iguodala’s buzzer-beater 15 days earlier had lifted the Warriors to a 116-115 win over the Thunder. Westbrook combined for 65 points in the two games but will not be around this time while recovering from knee surgery. Oklahoma City won’t need Westbrook if it can defend like it did in the second half in Houston on Thursday, when the Rockets totaled 19 points.
•ABOUT THE WARRIORS (25-15 SU, 18-20-2 ATS): Golden State built its 10-game winning streak on intensity on the defensive end and came away from Wednesday’s 123-116 loss to Denver upset with its effort. “Defensively we didn’t show up,” guard Stephen Curry told reporters. “We let (the Nuggets) get hot at the wrong times.” The Warriors don’t stand to gain much on the defensive end when guards MarShon Brooks and Jordan Crawford join the team but could get a big offensive boost off the bench. The two guards were acquired from the Boston Celtics in a three-team deal that sent away Toney Douglas and both players should join the team on Friday.
•ABOUT THE THUNDER (29-10 SU, 21-18-0 ATS): Oklahoma City had dropped three straight road games and looked well on its way to a fourth when it went into the half down 73-59 at Houston. The Thunder were a different team after the break, with Serge Ibaka blocking five shots in the contest and Reggie Jackson grabbing six steals en route to a 104-92 victory. Kevin Durant scored 36 points in the win - his fifth straight 30-plus outing - but was quick to credit the effort at the other end. “Our defense was the reason we won this game,” Durant told reporters. “We had to stay disciplined. Everyone played hard.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Curry has slumped to 25.5 percent from 3-point range over the last five games.... Durant is averaging 34.6 points in 11 games since Westbrook went down.... Golden State F David Lee has recorded four double-doubles in the last seven games.
StatSystems Sports has searched its database for all past games where the posted line or total were similar to this game's and where the final game statistics were comparable to the estimator's projections. (Points/Per Possession, Turnovers, along with Free-Throw Shooting Percentages). The number of simulations in which each team covered the current spread, won the game straight up, and number of simulations which went over or under the current total are listed below. Edges are indicated where one side enjoyed a significant advantage against the line or total.
-- In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the spread 598 times, while GOLDEN STATE covered the spread 402 times. *EDGE against the spread =OKLAHOMA CITY. In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY won the game straight up 623 times, while GOLDEN STATE won 344 times. In 1000 simulated games, 671 games went under the total, while 329 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
-- In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the first half line 538 times, while GOLDEN STATE covered the first half line 429 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 647 games went under first half total, while 353 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--OKLAHOMA CITY is 34-31 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--OKLAHOMA CITY is 43-22 straight up against GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--37 of 62 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--OKLAHOMA CITY is 36-27 versus the first half line when playing against GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--38 of 63 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Warriors are 2-7 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
--Warriors are 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Oklahoma City.
--Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
--Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings in Oklahoma City.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Warriors are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 Friday games.
--Warriors are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Over is 4-0 in Warriors last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 5-1 in Thunder last 6 home games.
--Over is 4-0 in Thunder last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 4-1 in Thunder last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.
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