STATSYSTEMS SPORTS STAT/SHEETS, 1/20/14
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
INFORMATION WORTH BETTING ON EACH DAY
_________________________________________
***** Monday, 1/20/14 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.
__________________________________________________
Betting Notes – Monday
•Hot Teams
-- Cleveland won four of last six games, covered last five home games. Mavericks won four of last six games, covered last three on road.
-- Clippers won five of their last six games. Detroit won three of four.
-- Toronto won four of last six games, covered eight of last ten.
-- Wizards won three of their last four games.
-- Nets won six of their last seven games.
-- Memphis won last five games, all by 7 or less points.
-- Heat won last two games, after losing previous three.
-- Chicago won seven of its last nine games. Lakers won last two games, after losing previous six.
-- Portland won its last five games, all by 8+ points. Rockets won six of their last eight games.
-- Pacers won/covered their last four games.
•Cold Teams
-- Charlotte lost five of its last seven games.
-- 76ers lost six of their last seven games.
-- New York lost last three games, by 10-28-14 points.
-- Pelicans lost last eight games, covered three of last four.
-- Hawks lost five of their last seven games.
-- Warriors lost three of their last five games.
•Totals
-- Last four Cleveland-Dallas games stayed under total.
-- Last seven Clipper road games went over the total.
-- Last six Toronto road games stayed under the total. Five of last six Charlotte games went over.
-- Five of last six Philly road games stayed under; four of Washington's last five home games went over.
-- Three of last four Brooklyn games went over the total.
-- Three of last four Memphis road games stayed under total.
-- Six of last eight Miami road games went over the total.
-- Under is 9-2 in Chicago's last 11 home games; four of last five Lakers road games went over.
-- Nine of last twelve Portland road games went over.
-- Last five Indiana road games stayed under the total.
•Series Records
-- Cavaliers lost five of last six games with Dallas.
-- Clippers won six of last seven games with Detroit.
-- Bobcats won their last three games with Toronto.
-- 76ers won eight of last eleven games with Washington.
-- Knicks won nine of last twelve games with Brooklyn.
-- Pelicans lost their last four visits to Memphis.
-- Heat won last nine versus Atlanta, covered five of last six.
-- Lakers lost three of last four games with Chicago.
-- Rockets won three of last four games with Portland.
-- Pacers won four of last five games with Golden State.
•Situational Trends of The Day
-- ATLANTA is 10-0 ATS (+10.0 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was ATLANTA 99.6, OPPONENT 89.2.
-- PORTLAND is 16-4 OVER (+11.6 Units) after a game where they made 85% of their free throws or better this season.
The average score was PORTLAND 110.2, OPPONENT 104.3.
-- PORTLAND is 17-31 (-17.1 Units) against the 1rst half line after 4 straight games forcing opponent to commit 14 or less turnovers over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was PORTLAND 50.2, OPPONENT 53.3.
-- ATLANTA is 12-1 UNDER (+10.9 Units) the 1rst half total when playing with double revenge - 2 straight losses vs. opponent this season.
The average score was ATLANTA 46.4, OPPONENT 47.6.
-- TERRY STOTTS is 19-39 (-23.9 Units) against the 1rst half line after 5 straight games forcing opponent to commit 14 or less turnovers in all games he has coached since 1996.
The average score was STOTTS 49.2, OPPONENT 53.3.
•Matchup Trends of The Day
-- CLEVELAND is 16-4 ATS (+11.6 Units) versus good free throw shooting teams - making >=76% of their attempts - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was CLEVELAND 100.6, OPPONENT 100.5.
-- TORONTO is 15-3 UNDER (+11.7 Units) versus poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was TORONTO 93.8, OPPONENT 90.1.
-- MIAMI is 9-25 against the 1rst half line (-18.5 Units) versus good passing teams, averaging >=23 assists/game over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was MIAMI 49.3, OPPONENT 49.7.
-- ATLANTA is 11-1 UNDER (+9.9 Units) the 1rst half total versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
The average score was ATLANTA 46.2, OPPONENT 49.0.
-- RICK CARLISLE is 43-17 ATS (+24.3 Units) in road games versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game as the coach of DALLAS.
The average score was CARLISLE 105.0, OPPONENT 102.3.
•Situation Analysis of The Day
-- Play Against - Road teams versus the money line (NEW ORLEANS) - after going under the total by more than 18 points in their previous game against opponent after going under the total by more than 6 points in three consecutive games.
(27-6 over the last 5 seasons.) (81.8%, +26.5 units. Rating = 5*)
The average money line posted in these games was: Team underdog with a money line of: +120.6
The average score in these games was: Team 101.2, Opponent 94.3 (Average point differential = +6.9)
The situation's record this season is: (2-0, +3.5 units).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (14-4, +12.2 units).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (87-43, +28.2 units).
-- Play On - Road teams (PHILADELPHIA) - a good offensive team (98-102 PPG) against a poor defensive team (98-102 PPG), after allowing 100 points or more 2 straight games.
(76-25 over the last 5 seasons.) (75.2%, +48.5 units. Rating = 4*)
The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (59-44 over the last 5 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 3.4
The average score in these games was: Team 102.6, Opponent 100.8 (Average point differential = +1.8)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 54 (54% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (18-5).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (41-13).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (181-130).
-- Play Under - All teams where the total is 200 to 209.5 (ATLANTA) - well rested team - playing 4 or less games in 10 days, a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) playing a winning team.
(53-18 over the last 5 seasons.) (74.6%, +33.2 units. Rating = 3*)
The average total posted in these games was: 204.5
The average score in these games was: Team 99.8, Opponent 101.5 (Total points scored = 201.3)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 33 (47.1% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (5-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (24-10).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (123-78).
-- Play On - Road teams where the 1rst half line is +1.5 to -1.5 (BROOKLYN) - revenging a home blowout loss versus opponent of 20 points or more, off an upset win as an underdog.
(27-5 over the last 5 seasons.) (84.4%, +21.5 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 4.8
The average first half score in these games was: Team 50.6, Opponent 49.6 (Average first half point differential = +0.9)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (15-0).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (59-34).
-- Play Under - All teams where the first half total is between 95.5 and 100.5 points (CHICAGO) - after leading in their previous game by 15 or more points at the half against opponent after scoring 100 points or more 3 straight games.
(56-22 since 1996.) (71.8%, +31.8 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 98.3
The average first half score in these games was: Team 46.8, Opponent 47.6 (Total first half points scored = 94.4)
The situation's record this season is: (2-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (5-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (9-5).
__________________________________________
Betting News & Notes Week #13
Each and every week here at StatSystems Sports, Systems Analyst Larry Hertner looks back on the National Basketball Association betting scene and give you the best –and worst – basketball bets, as well as some spots to keep an eye on with the upcoming schedule. Note: For the week of January 12th thru 18th.
Hottest ATS
•Portland Trail Blazers (3-0 SU, 3-0 ATS)
The league's biggest first-half surprise isn't going away anytime soon. The Trail Blazers put themselves on a 60-win pace with a perfect week, covering the spread with comfortable victories over the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks. Portland is on a five-game winning streak that has seen it average better than 113 points per game - bolstering the league's top offense while moving the team to the top of the Western Conference standings. Whether the Blazers stay there will depend on how they fare this week (more on that later.)
Coldest ATS
•New York Knicks (1-3 SU, 0-4 ATS)
It was another difficult week in Manhattan, as the Knicks failed to take advantage of the momentum created by their season-high five-game winning streak (capped by an overtime win over Phoenix to start the week.) Matched up against a pair of elite defenses in Charlotte and Indiana and the undermanned but still-dangerous Los Angeles Clippers, New York dropped all three games by double digits to fall 10 games under .500 yet again. Things get a little easier for the Knicks over the coming week, as they'll play all four games at Madison Square Garden.
Best Over Play
•Indiana Pacers (3-0 SU, 3-0 O/U)
Heaven help the Eastern Conference if the Pacers continue to score as frequently as they did over the past week. Armed with the league's stingiest defense but an offensive attack that still ranks below league average, Indiana broke out in a big way this past week, averaging 113 points - more than 15 points above their season mark - in convincing victories over the Kings, Knicks and Clippers. Paul George has been his usual efficient self, while Lance Stephenson has proven to be a viable second option as he bolsters his Most Improved Player credentials.
Best Under Play
•Philadelphia 76ers (1-2 SU, 0-3 O/U)
While the Pacers emerged as a major surprise on the Over last week, the 76ers were certainly the most unexpected Under play. Philadelphia spent time as the league's most prolific offense, but those days appear to be far behind it now; the 76ers needed just 95 points to dispose of Charlotte, then managed only 86 in a loss to the Miami Heat and 78 in a thumping at Chicago. It's the continuation of a disturbing trend for Philadelphia, which ranked 10th in scoring in November, slipped to 12th in December and is 19th so far in January.
•Surveying The Schedule
The Trail Blazers' only weakness is on the defensive side of the ball, where they allow 102.9 points per game - tied for the third-highest mark in the Western Conference. Portland has a steady diet of prolific opponents on the schedule this coming week; it opens with road games against Houston (105.1 points per game) and Oklahoma City (105.3) before returning home for dates against Denver (103.3) and Minnesota (106.4). Expect points a-plenty - and lofty over/under totals to reflect that.
Three Understated NBA Trends
Sure it’s fun to bet on those public NBA teams, the ones on ESPN or ABC every night and have stars with nicknames like “The King” or “CP 3”. But we bettors all know real value is often found in those teams running their sets and protecting the rim away from the limelight. Here StatSystems Sports highlights three teams and three trends that won’t make the headlines but may help boost your bank account.
•Grizz Bettors Go West
Whether it’s the change in climate or the extra couple hours of shut-eye, there’s something about playing the Western Conference that is jiving for the Memphis Grizzlies and their supporters these days. The Grizz are 6-1 ATS in their last seven against teams from left side of the Continental Divide, including straight-up home wins against Oklahoma City and Sacramento last week. Whether this will continue remains to be seen but with a home date versus New Orleans Monday and a home-and-home with Houston Friday and Saturday this week bettors will certainly hope so.
•The Kings of the Over
With the likes of Rudy Gay, DeMarcus Cousins, and Isaiah Thomas, the Sacramento Kings can score with the best teams in the league. The problem is that the aforementioned trio - along with the rest of the lackluster Kings – just can’t stop the best from scoring, not that this has been a problem for totals bettors. In the Kings' last six against teams with a .600 record the over has hit in all six. And with games at Houston Wednesday and against Indiana Friday this week these same bettors will look for this run to continue.
•Rest Helps Suns Rise
Who even plays for the Phoenix Suns? There’s those Morris twins with the same first name and that Dragic kid who was Steve Nash’s backup a couple of years ago. Whoever they are, perhaps it is this anonymity that has made the Suns among the NBA’s best bet this season, going 25-13-1 ATS. What’s been even more impressive has been the Suns’ ability to cover the spread on a day’s rest, going 20-6-1 in their last 27 after a day off. And would you look at Phoenix’s schedule this week: games against Indiana, Washington, and at Cleveland on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday respectively.
______________________________________________________________________
Monday's Match-ups
#701 LA CLIPPERS @ #702 DETROIT
(TV: 1:00 PM EST, Prime Ticket Los Angeles, FSN Detroit - Line: Total: ) - The Los Angeles Clippers' winning streak is over, but their road trip is just getting started. After being denied a season-best sixth straight win in a 106-92 defeat at Indiana on Saturday, the Clippers look to get back on track when they visit the Detroit Pistons on Monday. It's the third game of a seven-game trek through the Eastern Conference for the Clippers, who have won four straight against the Pistons, including three in a row in Detroit.
It's a matchup of two of the top frontcourts in the NBA, as the Pistons lead the league in points in the paint (51.5 per game) but will have to contend with the dominant duo of DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin. Detroit's front line of Josh Smith, Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond combined for 44 points and 31 rebounds in Saturday's 104-96 win at Washington. The Pistons have won three of four overall, but they've dropped six of their last seven at home, where they're a disappointing 7-13.
•ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (28-14 SU, 24-18-0 ATS): Los Angeles suffered a rare offensive outage against the Pacers, shooting 39.8 percent and matching its fifth-lowest point total of the season. The Clippers came out of the loss with more bad news on the injury front, as guards Darren Collison (toe) and J.J. Redick (knee) and forward Matt Barnes (thumb) were all dinged and are considered day-to-day. Los Angeles can't afford to lose more players with star point guard Chris Paul already sidelined with a separated shoulder.
•ABOUT THE PISTONS (17-23 SU, 17-22-1 ATS): Detroit has not lived up to preseason expectations, but the Pistons are tied for seventh in the Eastern Conference and have shown signs of turning things around recently. Smith's inconsistency has contributed to Detroit's underperformance, as he averages 18.2 points in the team's wins and 13.4 in losses and has only four double-doubles after averaging 26.6 over the past seven seasons. Point guard Brandon Jennings also has been inconsistent but has shown a good pass-first mentality of late, recording five or more assists in 16 straight games while averaging 9.4 helpers over that span.
•PREGAME NOTES: Jordan has collected double-digit rebounds in 19 straight games, tied for the third-longest streak in franchise history.... Drummond's 29 double-doubles are the second-most in the NBA this season behind Minnesota's Kevin Love.... Griffin has scored in double figures in 42 straight games dating to last 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.
-- Note: There are currently No EDGES available for this matchup due to No-Line posted at this time. In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS won the game straight up 597 times, while DETROIT won 370 times.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--DETROIT is 17-11 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--DETROIT is 21-10 straight up against LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--16 of 30 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DETROIT is 18-12 versus the first half line when playing against LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--14 of 28 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Clippers are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Favorite is 16-7-1 ATS in the last 24 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a ATS loss.
--Clippers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 when their opponent scores 100 points or more.
--Over is 7-0 in Clippers last 7 road games.
--Pistons are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Over is 8-0 in Pistons last 8 Monday games.
--Over is 5-0 in Pistons last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
_______________________________
#703 DALLAS @ #704 CLEVELAND
(TV: 1:00 PM EST, FSN Southwest Dallas, FSN Ohio Cleveland - Line: Mavericks -1.5, Total: 209) - With a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference still very much up for grabs, the Cleveland Cavaliers have to be encouraged by their performance over a grueling five-game West Coast road trip. Things get a lot easier for the Cavaliers as they kick off a five-game homestand Monday afternoon against the Dallas Mavericks. Cleveland fared well on the trek, posting a 3-2 record and finishing things off with a 117-109 triumph over the Denver Nuggets.
The Mavericks will provide a stiff test for the Cavaliers - particularly on the defensive end. Dallas has won four of its last six games, scoring at least 107 points in each of them and reaching its high-water mark for the season in a 129-127 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday. The Mavericks are looking to bounce back from a dreadful 127-111 defeat at the hands of the Portland Trail Blazers - a game that wasn't nearly as close as the final score would suggest.
•ABOUT THE MAVERICKS (24-18 SU, 23-19-0 ATS): Dallas used the same word repeatedly when asked to describe its effort against the Trail Blazers: embarrassing. Head coach Rick Carlisle ripped his team for its lackluster effort in a statement game against one of the top teams in the NBA, saying that the only time his team competed was in the fourth quarter with the game well in hand. "The guys that were in there in the fourth really fought, which is great," he told the Dallas Morning News. "I'm going to find guys that will fight and get them in the game, simple as that."
•ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (15-25 SU, 18-22-0 ATS): It has been a dreadful season for reigning No. 1 overall pick Anthony Bennett, who has dealt with questions about his fitness level and work ethic while failing to make a dent in the Cleveland rotation. The defending Mountain West freshman of the year is averaging a paltry 2.4 points and 2.2 rebounds, but still has at least one fan - his former coach at UNLV. "The biggest thing with AB is, he's such a good guy that he's a pleaser," Dave Rice told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "I think he feels a certain amount of responsibility because he was the No. 1 pick in the draft."
•PREGAME NOTES: Dallas has won back-to-back meetings and five of the last six.... Mavericks leading scorer Dirk Nowitzki averages 20.1 points in 24 career games versus the Cavaliers.... Cleveland is 6-7 against the Western Conference this season - the fifth-best mark among East teams.
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, DALLAS covered the spread 562 times, while CLEVELAND covered the spread 438 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, DALLAS won the game straight up 593 times, while CLEVELAND won 388 times. In 1000 simulated games, 637 games went under the total, while 335 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, DALLAS covered the first half line 504 times, while CLEVELAND covered the first half line 454 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 635 games went under first half total, while 365 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--DALLAS is 15-14 against the spread versus CLEVELAND since 1996.
--DALLAS is 18-13 straight up against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--17 of 29 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DALLAS is 17-11 versus the first half line when playing against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--13 of 26 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Mavericks are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Under is 5-0 in Mavericks last 5 games following a ATS loss.
--Under is 4-0 in Mavericks last 4 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Cavaliers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games.
--Cavaliers are 1-9-1 ATS in their last 11 Monday games.
--Cavaliers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
_______________________________
#705 PHILADELPHIA @ #706 WASHINGTON
(TV: 2:00 PM EST, TCN-Philadelphia, CSN Washington - Line: Wizards -10, Total: 207) - After failing in their third chance to get over the .500 mark this season, the Washington Wizards try to build another winning streak when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. The Wizards lost to Detroit 104-98 on Saturday after winning three straight – their season high – for the third time since a 2-7 start. Philadelphia, which split two games with Washington early in the campaign, have lost six of seven contests and resides at the bottom of the league in points allowed per game.
John Wall recorded 34 points in the Wizards’ defeat on Saturday and talented teammate Bradley Beal looks to rebound from a 2-of-14 shooting performance. The 76ers will have to raise their game defensively against a Washington team that boasts six players averaging in double figures and stands fourth in the league in 3-point percentage (38.5). Philadelphia is averaging over 100 points, but managed only a season-low 78 on Saturday against Chicago.
•ABOUT THE 76ERS (13-27 SU, 16-24-0 ATS): Philadelphia will likely be without guard Tony Wroten, the team’s fifth-leading scorer (13 per game), who suffered an ankle injury in the loss on Saturday. Forward Evan Turner averages 18.5 points to lead the 76ers while forward Thaddeus Young (17.3), who scored 29 against the Wizards on Nov. 1, and point guard Michael Carter-Williams (17 points, 6.7 assists) have also keyed the offense. Scoring has not been a problem though for Philadelphia, which allows 110 points per game and averages an NBA-worst 17.4 turnovers.
•ABOUT THE WIZARDS (19-20 SU, 21-18-0 ATS): Wall registered at least 30 points for the fifth time this season on Saturday and leads the team in scoring (20.2) and assists (8.6). The last time Beal scored in single digits he rebounded with 21 points in the following contest and the second-year pro averages 16.9 overall while forwards Trevor Ariza (13.7) and Nene (13.4) are also posting strong offensive numbers. The status of forward Trevor Booker, averaging 6.5 rebounds, is uncertain after he left Saturday’s game with an ankle injury.
•PREGAME NOTES: Philadelphia C Spencer Hawes averaged 19.5 points and 13.5 rebounds in the first two games against the Wizards this season.... Washington has not been over .500 since the beginning of the 2009-10 regular season at 2-1.... The 76ers lost 11 consecutive road games against Eastern Conference foes after winning their first of the season at Washington.
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 549 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the spread 419 times. *EDGE against the spread =WASHINGTON. In 1000 simulated games, WASHINGTON won the game straight up 800 times, while PHILADELPHIA won 177 times. In 1000 simulated games, 607 games went under the total, while 371 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
-- In 1000 simulated games, WASHINGTON covered the first half line 526 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the first half line 451 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 596 games went under first half total, while 404 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PHILADELPHIA is 37-28 against the spread versus WASHINGTON since 1996.
--PHILADELPHIA is 38-28 straight up against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--38 of 65 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--PHILADELPHIA is 36-30 versus the first half line when playing against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--32 of 64 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--76ers are 16-5-1 ATS in the last 22 meetings.
--76ers are 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Washington.
--Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.
--Over is 15-5 in the last 20 meetings in Washington.
--Road team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--76ers are 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 Monday games.
--Under is 4-0 in 76ers last 4 overall.
--Under is 4-0 in 76ers last 4 road games.
--Wizards are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Monday games.
--Wizards are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home games.
--Wizards are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
_______________________________
#707 TORONTO @ #708 CHARLOTTE
(TV: 2:00 PM EST, Sportsnet Toronto, SportSouth Charlotte - Line: Raptors -5, Total: 187) - The Toronto Raptors squandered a big lead in Sunday afternoon's home loss to the Los Angeles Lakers - but they won't have much time to dwell on the defeat. Less than 24 hours after dropping a 112-106 decision to the Lakers, Toronto hits the road for a rare Monday matinee against the Charlotte Bobcats. While the Raptors look to climb above the .500 mark away from Toronto, the Bobcats eye their own bounce-back from a heartbreaking defeat against Miami.
Charlotte was on the verge of earning an enormous statement victory over one of the top teams in the league - but the Bobcats not only fell apart late, they also lost starting point guard Kemba Walker for up to two weeks with an ankle sprain. Despite the defeat, head coach Steve Clifford was upbeat. "We played a good game," he said afterward. "I feel like we're getting back to fighting, defending and staying in games. Hopefully that will help us going forward."
•ABOUT THE RAPTORS (20-19 SU, 23-16-0 ATS): Toronto's reliance on the long-range shot has served it well during an outstanding run that has seen the team emerge as the best in the weak Atlantic Division. But the 3-point shooting let the Raptors down in the loss to Los Angeles; they shot just 9-of-30 from beyond the arc as the Lakers whittled away a 19-point deficit and pulled away late. Coach Dwane Casey was livid at his team throughout the collapse, but was more measured afterward, saying: "We didn't get our defensive focus into the game all afternoon."
•ABOUT THE BOBCATS (17-25 SU, 22-18-2 ATS): With Walker set to miss his first action since entering the league in 2011, Charlotte finds itself in a strange situation - having to replace a guard that has emerged as one of the top all-around players at his position. Bench option Ramon Sessions will likely see the bulk of the action at point guard, with Jannero Pargo spelling him. Clifford isn't concerned about how his team will fare with Walker on the sidelines, saying: "I feel a lot better about our team than a week ago. We showed the fight we were showing early in the year."
•PREGAME NOTES: Charlotte has won both meeting between the teams this season, and three straight overall.... Raptors leading scorer DeMar DeRozan averages 14.3 points in 16 career games against the Bobcats.... Walker is the team leader in points (18.7), assists (five), steals (1.4) and minutes (35.7).
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, CHARLOTTE covered the spread 604 times, while TORONTO covered the spread 371 times. *EDGE against the spread =CHARLOTTE. In 1000 simulated games, TORONTO won the game straight up 503 times, while CHARLOTTE won 473 times. In 1000 simulated games, 584 games went over the total, while 385 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, CHARLOTTE covered the first half line 577 times, while TORONTO covered the first half line 423 times. *EDGE against first half line =CHARLOTTE. In 1000 simulated games, 550 games went over first half total, while 422 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--CHARLOTTE is 19-14 against the spread versus TORONTO since 1996.
--CHARLOTTE is 17-17 straight up against TORONTO since 1996.
--17 of 34 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHARLOTTE is 21-11 versus the first half line when playing against TORONTO since 1996.
--19 of 34 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Raptors are 5-16 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
--Raptors are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Charlotte.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Charlotte.
--Home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Underdog is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Under is 6-0 in Raptors last 6 road games.
--Over is 5-0 in Raptors last 5 Monday games.
--Under is 4-0 in Raptors last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--Bobcats are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 5-1 in Bobcats last 6 overall.
--Over is 6-1 in Bobcats last 7 games playing on 1 days rest.
_______________________________
#709 BROOKLYN @ #710 NEW YORK
(TV: 2:30 PM EST, ESPN, YES Brooklyn, MSG New York - Line: Nets -2, Total: 193) - The resurgent Brooklyn Nets are back on the right side of the playoff bubble, and they'll try to stay there when they travel across the city to face the rival New York Knicks on Monday. The Nets have won six of their last seven to climb into a tie for seventh place in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks are one of the teams chasing them, but they've lost three straight to fall two games off the pace.
The Nets are playing stateside for the first time since a 127-110 win over Atlanta in London on Thursday in which they got 29 points from Joe Johnson, who has averaged 24.4 points over the past five games. "Joe has been off the charts," Brooklyn coach Jason Kidd told reporters. "Not just the last few games, but the whole season." The Nets won the first inter-borough matchup of the season, 113-83 on Dec. 5 in Brooklyn.
•ABOUT THE NETS (16-22 SU, 18-20-0 ATS): Brooklyn has been winning without point guard Deron Williams (13.6 points, 6.9 assists), who has missed the past five games with a sprained ankle and will be a game-time decision. Shaun Livingston has played well in Williams' absence, averaging 11.6 points and 5.8 rebounds over the past five contests, but the Nets are hurting for depth in the backcourt. Brooklyn has lacked offensive punch since losing leading scorer Brook Lopez to a broken foot, but it has stayed afloat by playing better at the defensive end, holding six of its last seven opponents under 100 points.
•ABOUT THE KNICKS (15-25 SU, 16-24-0 ATS): New York has been hampered by injuries all season and will be shorthanded for Monday's matinee with forwards Metta World Peace (knee), Amar'e Stoudemire (ankle) and Kenyon Martin (ankle) all out and guard Pablo Prigioni (toe) unlikely to play. The latest round of injuries prompted coach Mike Woodson to indicate rarely used reserve centers Cole Aldrich and Jeremy Tyler "will have to play some now." It also is likely to mean the offense will run through leading scorer Carmelo Anthony (26.1 points, nine rebounds) even more than usual.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Knicks are 18-9 all-time on Martin Luther King Day but have lost on the holiday the past three seasons.... After being held out as a coach's decision twice in a span of four games, Knicks SG J.R. Smith has averaged 18 points over the past two contests.... The Nets, who host Orlando on Tuesday, are 5-2 in the first game of back-to-backs.
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, NEW YORK covered the spread 758 times, while BROOKLYN covered the spread 223 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK won the game straight up 711 times, while BROOKLYN won 268 times. In 1000 simulated games, 691 games went over the total, while 285 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK covered the first half line 679 times, while BROOKLYN covered the first half line 292 times. *Edge against first half line =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, 623 games went over first half total, while 377 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--BROOKLYN is 38-30 against the spread versus NEW YORK since 1996.
--BROOKLYN is 39-32 straight up against NEW YORK since 1996.
--41 of 71 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--BROOKLYN is 38-32 versus the first half line when playing against NEW YORK since 1996.
--36 of 68 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Under is 13-6 in the last 19 meetings.
--Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in New York.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Nets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Nets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU win of more than 10 points.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Nets last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Knicks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
--Knicks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home.
--Over is 5-0 in Knicks last 5 games following a ATS loss.
_______________________________
#711 NEW ORLEANS @ #712 MEMPHIS
(TV: 5:00 PM EST, NBATV, FSN New Orleans, SportSouth Memphis - Grizzlies -8, Total: 192.5) - Memphis is playing its best basketball of the season and the New Orleans Pelicans are plunging downward and aiming to halt an eight-game losing streak when they visit the Grizzlies on Monday. Memphis has won a season-high five consecutive games to move above .500 but lost twice to the Pelicans earlier this season. New Orleans has suffered four double-digit defeats during its skid and is also saddled with a 6-14 road mark.
Recently acquired guard Courtney Lee has played well since joining the Grizzlies and is averaging 16.3 points over the past four games. He has been starting in the backcourt with Tony Allen still sidelined with a wrist injury. Pelicans power forward Anthony Davis continues to emerge as a star and had 31 points and matched a season best with 17 rebounds in Saturday’s loss to Golden State. Davis has strung together seven consecutive 20-point outings, including five double-doubles during the hot stretch.
•ABOUT THE PELICANS (15-24 SU, 16-21-2 ATS): Coach Monty Williams pointed the finger at himself after the skid reached eight games with Saturday’s loss. But outside of Davis’ 11-of-17 shooting performance, the rest of the players were a combined 21-of-66. “We’ve all got to be better,” Williams said. “I’ll always point at me first. I love the way the guys fight. It’s not about playing for contracts, they just want to play well for each other. I hope our fans realize that and are proud.”
•ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (20-19 SU, 17-21-1 ATS): Point guard Mike Conley has fueled the recent success and is averaging 22.2 points and 7.6 assists during the winning streak. Conley scored 25 points on 8-of-13 shooting in Friday’s 91-90 win over the Sacramento Kings. The return of center Marc Gasol also has been an aid and he had a solid outing against the Kings with 16 points and four blocked shots. Gasol scored just 12 points in his first two games back from a knee injury while trying to regain his timing and conditioning.
•PREGAME NOTES: New Orleans has won the last three meetings, including a 99-84 win in Memphis on Nov. 6.... The Grizzlies blocked 13 shots against the Kings, their most since also having 13 rejections against Utah on Jan. 8, 2010.... Pelicans C Jason Smith (knee) is out indefinitely to join F Ryan Anderson (neck) and PG Jrue Holiday (shin) on the injury list.
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, NEW ORLEANS covered the spread 646 times, while MEMPHIS covered the spread 336 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, MEMPHIS won the game straight up 557 times, while NEW ORLEANS won 422 times. In 1000 simulated games, 765 games went over the total, while 235 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW ORLEANS covered the first half line 622 times, while MEMPHIS covered the first half line 378 times. *EDGE against first half line =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, 662 games went over first half total, while 306 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =Over.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--NEW ORLEANS is 26-24 against the spread versus MEMPHIS since 1996.
--NEW ORLEANS is 33-19 straight up against MEMPHIS since 1996.
--31 of 52 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--MEMPHIS is 26-24 versus the first half line when playing against NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--26 of 48 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Pelicans are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
--Home team is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Pelicans are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Monday games.
--Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Pelicans last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Grizzlies are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Under is 4-1 in Grizzlies last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
--Over is 4-1 in Grizzlies last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
_______________________________
#713 MIAMI @ #714 ATLANTA
(TV: 5:30 PM EST, Sun Sports Miami, SportSouth Atlanta - Line: Heat -4.5, Total: 202) - The Miami Heat finish up an uneven six-game road trip when they visit the Atlanta Hawks on Monday. Miami has won nine straight against its Southeast Division rivals, but has been up and down in going 2-3 on the current trip. The Heat, playing again without Dwyane Wade, needed overtime to pick up a 104-96 win at Charlotte on Saturday, the club's ninth win in 10 games against divisional opponents.
Atlanta initially treaded water in the wake of a season-ending injury to center Al Horford, but has begun to lose ground by dropping five of seven games this month. Thursday's 127-110 loss to Brooklyn in London was the Hawks' worst defensive effort of the season, eclipsing 125 points allowed in a double-overtime affair earlier this season. Playing with Horford, Atlanta took Miami to overtime on the road Dec. 23 before falling 121-119.
•ABOUT THE HEAT (29-11 SU, 18-22-0 ATS): Wade, who has been periodically rested throughout the season, did not play in either of the first two meetings between the teams this season but is expected to be on the court Monday. It remains to be seen whether he will be much of a factor, for the star swingman has provided little of late when active, producing eight points in each of his last two games. Ray Allen has played an average of 41.5 minutes in the last two Wade-less games for the Heat, struggling to hit one 3-pointer in 10 attempts and shooting 7-of-25 overall.
•ABOUT THE HAWKS (20-19 SU, 21-18-0 ATS): Horford may be missed most on the defensive end, which is where Atlanta offered very little resistance against Brooklyn after giving up 108 points in a loss to Memphis the previous game. The Nets had a 40-28 rebounding advantage and shot 58.2 percent from the floor in dominating the Hawks, leading by as many as 33 at one point. Shelvin Mack and Mike Scott both came off the bench to produce a team-high 17 points for the Hawks.
•PREGAME NOTES: Atlanta SG Kyle Korver extended his NBA-record streak of consecutive games with a 3-pointer to 108 against Brooklyn, but it was the only shot he made in nine attempts.... Miami plays its next four games at home.... Hawks F DeMarre Carroll missed the game in London due to the birth of his daughter.
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, ATLANTA covered the spread 654 times, while MIAMI covered the spread 346 times. *EDGE against the spread =ATLANTA. In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA won the game straight up 518 times, while MIAMI won 459 times. In 1000 simulated games, 487 games went under the total, while 485 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA covered the first half line 606 times, while MIAMI covered the first half line 394 times. *EDGE against first half line =ATLANTA. In 1000 simulated games, 496 games went over first half total, while 458 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--MIAMI is 47-26 against the spread versus ATLANTA since 1996.
--MIAMI is 51-23 straight up against ATLANTA since 1996.
--42 of 72 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--MIAMI is 39-32 versus the first half line when playing against ATLANTA since 1996.
--40 of 71 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Heat are 37-17 ATS in the last 54 meetings.
--Heat are 7-0 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Atlanta.
--Under is 21-8 in the last 29 meetings.
--Favorite is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--Road team is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Heat are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS win.
--Under is 4-1 in Heat last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 8-1 in Heat last 9 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Hawks are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
--Under is 5-0 in Hawks last 5 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points.
--Under is 4-0 in Hawks last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
_______________________________
#715 PORTLAND @ #716 HOUSTON
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, TNT - Line: Rockets -2, Total: 219) - The Portland Trail Blazers are competing with the San Antonio Spurs for the best record in the Western Conference and attempt to notch their sixth consecutive victory when they visit the Houston Rockets on Monday. The Trail Blazers led by as many as 38 points during Saturday’s road victory over the Dallas Mavericks and are playing the third contest of a four-game road excursion. Houston has won six of its last games after beating the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday.
The Trail Blazers and Rockets split two meetings in Portland earlier this season with LaMarcus Aldridge contributing 31 points and a season-high 25 rebounds in the Trail Blazers’ victory. The Rockets also have a power forward that is playing well as Terrence Jones scored a career-best 36 points in the victory over the Bucks. Portland is 15-5 on the road after winning just 11 away games all last season and also defeated the Spurs to start the current trip. “We’ve got to stay hungry,” forward Nicolas Batum said after the Dallas win. “We’ve got a tough one in Houston coming up.”
•ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (31-9 SU, 24-16-0 ATS): Aldridge had 30 points and 12 rebounds in the victory over Dallas for his fourth consecutive double-double. He has scored 30 or more points in three of the past five games and is averaging 24.1 points and 11.3 rebounds. The big outing against the Mavericks came despite Aldridge often being double-teamed, which opened things up for his teammates as Portland rolled up the huge lead. “The good thing about our team is we have a lot of shooters around him and understand that when teams do that, we’ve got to knock down those shots so they don’t want to go back to doubling him,” guard Damian Lillard said after the win.
•ABOUT THE ROCKETS (27-15 SU, 20-20-2 ATS): Jones has been one of the NBA’s most improved players and really put his skills on display while going 14-of-20 shooting and grabbing 11 rebounds against the Bucks to raise his season averages to 11.6 points and 7.7 rebounds. The second-year forward only saw action in 19 games last season – averaging 5.5 points – and played sparingly early this season before moving into the starting lineup. He has stepped up his play another notch recently with four double-doubles in five games while averaging 21.6 points and 12.2 rebounds during the stretch. “He’s been doing an excellent job,” center Dwight Howard said after the Milwaukee contest. “He’s still growing as a player and he’s learning the game at a very fast pace, which is great.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Houston has won seven of the past 10 meetings.... Howard is averaging 30.5 points and 15 rebounds in the two outings against the Trail Blazers this season.... Portland’s 31-9 record is the third-best 40-game start in franchise history.
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, HOUSTON covered the spread 487 times, while PORTLAND covered the spread 487 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, HOUSTON won the game straight up 539 times, while PORTLAND won 443 times. In 1000 simulated games, 605 games went under the total, while 370 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, HOUSTON covered the first half line 511 times, while PORTLAND covered the first half line 457 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 588 games went under first half total, while 412 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PORTLAND is 34-33 against the spread versus HOUSTON since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 40-31 straight up against PORTLAND since 1996.
--37 of 67 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 42-26 versus the first half line when playing against PORTLAND since 1996.
--34 of 66 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Trail Blazers are 2-7-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
--Over is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.
--Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Houston.
--Favorite is 3-1-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Road team is 5-2-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Trail Blazers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.
--Trail Blazers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
--Over is 5-0 in Trail Blazers last 5 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Rockets last 4 games following a S.U. win.
--Over is 4-0 in Rockets last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 4-0 in Rockets last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
_______________________________
#717 LA LAKERS @ #718 CHICAGO
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, TWC Los Angeles, WGN-TV Chicago - Line: Bulls -9.5, Total: 197) - The Los Angeles Lakers will attempt to find some energy after back-to-back comeback wins when they visit the Chicago Bulls on Monday night. The Lakers finished off the Celtics with a late charge Friday before erasing a 19-point deficit in a 112-106 victory at Toronto on Sunday. The consecutive dramatic wins came on the heels of a six-game losing streak and gave Los Angeles a 7-7 record against Eastern Conference opponents.
The Bulls did not need any late-game rallies to upend Philadelphia by a 103-78 margin on Saturday, getting 21 points and 16 rebounds from Joakim Noah in their most lopsided victory of the season. Chicago is 10-4 since a 9-16 start and 5-2 since trading away All-Star swingman Luol Deng. The Bulls are 3-7 in their last 10 meetings overall against the Lakers and the teams have split the last 10 games in Chicago.
•ABOUT THE LAKERS (16-25 SU, 22-18-1 ATS): With injury comes opportunity, and several young Lakers are stepping up in recent days to fill in for banged-up veterans like Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash. Kendall Marshall has recorded five straight double-doubles - including 10 points and 11 assists against Toronto - while swingman Nick Young returned from a one-game suspension to pour in a season-high 29 points on Sunday. Rookie Ryan Kelly followed up a season-high 20 points at Boston with 17 versus the Raptors in his first career start.
•ABOUT THE BULLS (19-20 SU, 18-21-0 ATS): Noah has been carrying much of the load during Chicago's 14-game surge and has even picked things up on the offensive end since Deng was dealt to Cleveland. Noah, who has recorded double digits in rebounds in a career-high 12 straight games, is averaging 15 points in the seven games following the trade, shooting 50 percent from the field along the way. The veteran big man shot just 41.6 percent in the 11 games prior to deal.
•PREGAME NOTES: Bulls F Mike Dunleavy is 16-for-32 from 3-point range in his last 11 games.... Lakers G Jodie Meeks, who had a streak of at least one steal in an NBA-high 15 straight games come to an end earlier this month, had four steals vs. Toronto.... Los Angeles is averaging 112.8 points over the last four 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, LA LAKERS covered the spread 555 times, while CHICAGO covered the spread 445 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, CHICAGO won the game straight up 655 times, while LA LAKERS won 330 times. In 1000 simulated games, 654 games went under the total, while 320 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, LA LAKERS covered the first half line 578 times, while CHICAGO covered the first half line 422 times. *EDGE against first half line =LA LAKERS. In 1000 simulated games, 619 games went under first half total, while 381 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--CHICAGO is 16-15 against the spread versus LA LAKERS since 1996.
--LA LAKERS is 20-11 straight up against CHICAGO since 1996.
--20 of 30 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 20-10 versus the first half line when playing against LA LAKERS since 1996.
--17 of 31 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Under is 17-5 in the last 22 meetings.
--Under is 8-1 in the last 9 meetings in Chicago.
--Underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--Home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Lakers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 4-1 in Lakers last 5 overall.
--Under is 8-1 in Lakers last 9 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Bulls are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games.
--Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
--Under is 5-0 in Bulls last 5 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
_______________________________
#719 INDIANA @ #720 GOLDEN STATE
(TV: 10:30 PM EST, TNT - Line: Warriors -1, Total: 197.5) - The Indiana Pacers are on a mission and have already won a staggering 20 games by double digits entering Monday’s road contest against the Golden State Warriors. Indiana just swept a four-game homestand by an average of 23.3 points and the matchup against the Warriors marks the opener of a five-game road trip. Golden State is beginning a five-game homestand and is just 2-3 over the past five games after defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 97-87 on Saturday.
The Warriors are 12-5 at home and reside in sixth place in the Western Conference - and will be gunning for a huge victory. Golden State held the Pelicans to 33 second-half points in Saturday’s victory and will need a top-notch defensive outing to slay Paul George and the Pacers. George had 36 points in Indiana’s 106-92 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, including an acrobatic 360 windmill dunk that electrified the building. The Pacers are 11-6 on the road.
•ABOUT THE PACERS (32-7 SU, 27-12-0 ATS): George is averaging 30.7 points over the past three games and his emergence as a borderline superstar has fueled Indiana’s strong first half. The fourth-year pro is part of the MVP chatter and he is averaging 23.6 points – a total that would be likely higher if the Pacers weren’t regularly blowing out opponents. George has scored 20 or more points 27 times, including seven 30-point efforts, and has five double-digit outings on the boards while also buying into coach Frank Vogel’s defensive philosophy. “Help one another, contest every jump shot, load up the paint and make everything tough for guys,” George said after the Pacers held the Clippers to 39.8 percent from the field.
•ABOUT THE WARRIORS (26-16 SU, 19-21-2 ATS): Guard Jordan Crawford had 10 points in 13 minutes against New Orleans in his second game since being acquired from Boston. Golden State coveted Crawford to bolster its backcourt depth due to the versatility that he displayed while averaging 13.7 points and 5.7 assists with the Celtics prior to the trade. “He’s a scorer, he’s a playmaker,” star guard Stephen Curry told reporters after the win over the Pelicans. “He’ll get more comfortable as we go along but he’s shown why that was such a good trade for us. So I’m excited that he’s here."
•PREGAME NOTES: Indiana has lost five of its last six road games against the Warriors.... Pacers C Roy Hibbert has blocked five or more shots 10 times this season after having five rejections against the Clippers.... Golden State committed just eight turnovers against New Orleans, one off its season low.
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, INDIANA covered the spread 493 times, while GOLDEN STATE covered the spread 480 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, INDIANA won the game straight up 493 times, while GOLDEN STATE won 480 times. In 1000 simulated games, 552 games went under the total, while 448 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, INDIANA covered the first half line 498 times, while GOLDEN STATE covered the first half line 473 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 529 games went under first half total, while 471 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--INDIANA is 23-10 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--INDIANA is 21-12 straight up against GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--20 of 33 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--INDIANA is 19-14 versus the first half line when playing against GOLDEN STATE since 1996.
--18 of 32 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Pacers are 18-6 ATS in the last 24 meetings.
--Over is 16-7 in the last 23 meetings.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Golden State.
--Favorite is 18-6 ATS in the last 24 meetings.
--Home team is 9-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Pacers are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 after scoring 100 points or more.
--Pacers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
--Under is 4-0 in Pacers last 4 road games.
--Warriors are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
--Warriors are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.
--Over is 4-1 in Warriors last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
_______________________________
