STATSYSTEMS SPORTS STAT/SHEETS, 2/1/14
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
INFORMATION WORTH BETTING ON EACH DAY
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***** Saturday, 2/1/14 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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Betting Notes - Saturday
•Hot Teams
-- Washington is 11-3 versus spread in its last 14 road games. Thunder won its last ten games (9-1 vs. spread).
-- Atlanta won four of last six games, covered last three. Timberwolves won five of their last seven games.
-- Rockets won five of their last seven games.
-- Memphis won nine of last ten games, covered last five.
-- Bulls won five of their last seven games. Pelicans won three of four.
-- New York won/covered its last four games. Miami won three of last four games, covered one of last five.
-- Phoenix won/covered six of its last seven games. Bobcats won/covered four of last six games.
-- Raptors won five of their last six games.
-- Jazz are 6-2-1 versus spread in game following its last nine losses.
•Cold Teams
-- Indiana lost three of its last five games. Nets lost last two games after winning 10 of previous 11.
-- 76ers won/covered once in last five games.
-- Cavaliers won/covered once in last six games.
-- Bucks lost nine of last ten games (0-5 vs. spread last five).
-- San Antonio lost five of its last seven games. Kings lost last six games (4-2-1 vs spread on road).
-- Portland lost four of its last six games.
-- Clippers are 4-5 in their last nine games.
•Totals
-- Over is 6-2-1 in last nine Indiana games.
-- Seven of last eight Thunder-Wizard games went over.
-- Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Minnesota games.
-- Four of last five Detroit games went over total.
-- Five of last six Cleveland games stayed under total.
-- Last six Milwaukee-Memphis games stayed under.
-- Four of last five Chicago games stayed under total.
-- Over is 8-2-1 in last eleven Sacramento-San Antonio games.
-- Five of last six Miami games went over the total.
-- Eight of last twelve Phoenix games went over total.
-- Under is 4-0-1 in last five Portland games.
-- 13 of last 16 Clipper-Jazz games went over the total.
•Back-To-Backs
-- Nets are 3-2 versus spread on road if they played night before.
-- Thunder is 6-2 versus spread if they played night before.
-- Atlanta is 3-6 versus spread if they played night before.
-- 76ers are 1-7 versus spread if they lost the night before.
-- Bucks are 3-11 versus spread if they played the night before. Memphis is 4-0 versus spread if they played on road the night before.
-- Sacramento is 4-6 versus spread if it played night before.
-- Charlotte is 1-7 versus spread if it played on road night before.
-- Toronto is 5-2 versus spread if it played on road night before.
-- Utah is 3-1 versus spread on road if it played at home night before.
•Series Records
-- Pacers are 3-0 versus Brooklyn this year, winning by 15-17-14 points.
-- Thunder won seven of last nine games with Washington.
-- Hawks won eight of last nine games with Minnesota.
-- 76ers lost five of last six games with Detroit.
-- Rockets won four of last five games with Cleveland.
-- Grizzlies won last six games with Milwaukee (4-2 vs. spread).
-- Bulls won nine of last 11 games with New Orleans; Chicago won last five visits to Bourbon Street.
-- Spurs won seven in row, 17 of last 18 versus Sacramento (7-5 vs. spread in last 12 meetings).
-- Knicks won five of last seven games with Miami.
-- Suns won last four games with Charlotte, covered last three.
-- Trailblazers won nine of last ten games with Toronto.
-- Clippers won last seven games with Utah (3-4 vs. spread).
•Situational Trends of The Day
-- BROOKLYN is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) in road games when playing 6 or less games in 14 days over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was BROOKLYN 101.0, OPPONENT 93.7.
-- ATLANTA is 12-2 OVER (+9.8 Units) after a game where they made 50% of their 3 point shots or better over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was ATLANTA 106.5, OPPONENT 98.4.
-- SAN ANTONIO is 12-2 (+9.8 Units) against the 1rst half line off an upset loss as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was SAN ANTONIO 55.9, OPPONENT 44.1.
-- PHILADELPHIA is 13-2 OVER (+10.8 Units) the 1rst half total revenging a same season loss versus opponent this season.
The average score was PHILADELPHIA 54.6, OPPONENT 57.2.
-- RANDY WITTMAN is 36-13 UNDER (+21.7 Units) after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games as the coach of WASHINGTON.
The average score was WITTMAN 92.9, OPPONENT 95.3.
•Matchup Trends of The Day
-- INDIANA is 10-0 ATS (+10.0 Units) versus poor rebounding teams - outrebounded by opponents by 3+ per game this season.
The average score was INDIANA 101.0, OPPONENT 86.7.
-- WASHINGTON is 20-4 UNDER (+15.6 Units) versus good 3 point shooting teams - making >=36% of their attempts - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was WASHINGTON 90.8, OPPONENT 93.7.
-- MINNESOTA is 14-1 against the 1rst half line (+12.9 Units) in road games when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was MINNESOTA 52.3, OPPONENT 47.1.
-- WASHINGTON is 15-0 OVER (+15.0 Units) the 1rst half total in home games versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was WASHINGTON 53.3, OPPONENT 54.6.
-- BRETT BROWN is 21-5 OVER (+15.5 Units) the 1rst half total versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game as the coach of PHILADELPHIA.
The average score was BROWN 53.6, OPPONENT 57.2.
•Situation Analysis of The Day
-- Play Against - Road underdogs of +145 to +350 versus the money line (PHILADELPHIA) - cold team - having lost 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, revenging 2 straight losses versus opponent of 10 points or more, a bad team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record.
(28-1 over the last 5 seasons.) (96.6%, +26.8 units. Rating = 6*)
The average money line posted in these games was: Team favored with a money line of: -125
The average score in these games was: Team 105.2, Opponent 94.6 (Average point differential = +10.6)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0, +0 units).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (10-0, +10 units).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (60-15, +19.5 units).
-- Play On - Road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (OKLAHOMA CITY) - average defensive team (92-98 PPG) against a poor defensive team (98-102 PPG) after 42+ games, after 2 or more consecutive overs, a very good team (>=+7 PPG differential) against an average team (+/- 3 PPG differential).
(42-11 since 1996.) (79.2%, +29.9 units. Rating = 4*)
The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (48-6)
The average line posted in these games was: Team favored by 5.7
The average score in these games was: Team 102.5, Opponent 91.1 (Average point differential = +11.4)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 23 (45.1% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (10-3).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (19-5).
-- Play Under - Home teams where the total is 200 to 209.5 (ATLANTA) - average ball handling team (14.5-16.5 TO) versus an average pressure defense (14.5-16.5 TO), after going over the total by 48 or more points total in their last ten games, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season.
(42-11 over the last 5 seasons.) (79.2%, +29.9 units. Rating = 4*)
The average total posted in these games was: 204.3
The average score in these games was: Team 99.7, Opponent 97.4 (Total points scored = 197.1)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 30 (58.8% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (8-2).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (25-9).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (95-64).
-- Play On - Favorites of 6 or more points versus the first half line (MEMPHIS) - good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO's) against a poor pressure defense (<=14.5 TO's), after successfully covering the spread in 5 or more consecutive games, extremely tired team - when playing their 3rd game in 4 days.
(24-5 since 1996.) (82.8%, +18.5 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Team favored by 7.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 57.5, Opponent 44.4 (Average first half point differential = +13.1)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (5-1).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (9-2).
-- Play Under - All teams where the first half total is between 90.5 and 95.5 points (CHICAGO) - revenging a same season loss versus opponent, after 2 or more consecutive unders, an average offensive team (92-98 PPG) against a horrible defensive team (>=102 PPG).
(37-9 since 1996.) (80.4%, +27.1 units. Rating = 4*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 94.2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 44.5, Opponent 41.6 (Total first half points scored = 86.1)
The situation's record this season is: (2-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (4-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (9-3).
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Saturday's Match-ups
#501 BROOKLYN @ #502 INDIANA
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, YES (Brooklyn), FSN Indiana - Line: Pacers -10, Total: 188.5) - The Brooklyn Nets finish a two-day test against the top teams in each conference when they visit the Eastern-leading Indiana Pacers on Saturday. The Nets went 10-1 in January before dropping a one-point decision to Toronto on Monday and falling 120-95 on Friday against Oklahoma City, which leads the West and owns the NBA's best record. Paul George leads the Pacers, who dropped three of their last five games but boast a trio of victories over Brooklyn by an average of 12 points this season.
Indiana lost for only the second time in 23 home games Thursday against Phoenix and has seen its lead in the East shrink to three games over Miami. The Pacers allow the least points in the league (90.5) and Brooklyn is in the bottom third of the NBA in scoring. Brooklyn was 4-1 on the road in January after dropping four straight away from home at the end of December.
•ABOUT THE NETS (20-24 SU, 21-23-0 ATS): Brooklyn allowed Oklahoma City to shoot a season-high 63.6 percent from the field, was pounded on the boards 41-17 and trailed by 28 at halftime. Paul Pierce followed up his season-high 33-point effort with 10 in 31 minutes Friday and Kevin Garnett did not score in 12 minutes, going 0-of-4 from the field. The Nets’ leading active scorer Joe Johnson has struggled of late, averaging only eight points and shooting 33 percent from the field over the last four contests.
•ABOUT THE PACERS (35-10 SU, 29-16-0 ATS): George looks to break out of a mini shooting slump after making only 15-of-56 from the field the last three games, but averages 23 points overall – 24.7 including 10-of-22 shooting from 3-point range against Brooklyn. Lance Stephenson is averaging 19 points over the last four for the Pacers and is shooting a team-high 49.9 percent from the floor. Roy Hibbert, who leads the team in rebounding (7.8), along with David West and George Hill have also come through on the offensive end.
•PREGAME NOTES: Indiana has held 10 opponents to fewer than 80 points and is 21-0 when limiting teams to fewer than 90.... Nets G Marquis Teague, acquired from Chicago in mid January, scored seven points in 12 minutes in his Brooklyn debut Friday.... The Pacers led the league in defensive rebounds and defensive rebounding percentage through Thursday’s games.... The Pacers are 9-1 against the spread in home games versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts this season.... The Nets are 11-1 versus the spread in road games when playing 6 or less games in 14 days over the last two seasons.
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, BROOKLYN covered the spread 511 times, while INDIANA covered the spread 464 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, INDIANA won the game straight up 730 times, while BROOKLYN won 245 times. In 1000 simulated games, 556 games went over the total, while 444 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, BROOKLYN covered the first half line 514 times, while INDIANA covered the first half line 443 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 491 games went over first half total, while 480 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--BROOKLYN is 37-35 against the spread versus INDIANA since 1996.
--INDIANA is 42-34 straight up against BROOKLYN since 1996.
--43 of 72 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--BROOKLYN is 46-26 versus the first half line when playing against INDIANA since 1996.
--38 of 72 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Nets are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Indiana.
--Over is 27-13-1 in the last 41 meetings.
--Over is 15-5-1 in the last 21 meetings in Indiana.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Favorite is 20-7 ATS in the last 27 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Nets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
--Under is 4-1-1 in Nets last 6 road games.
--Under is 4-1 in Nets last 5 Saturday games.
--Pacers are 6-0 ATS L6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Pacers are 7-0 ATS L7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
--Over is 6-1 in Pacers last 7 Saturday games.
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#503 OKLAHOMA CITY @ #504 WASHINGTON
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, FSN Oklahoma (Oklahoma City), CSN Mid-Atlantic (Washington) - Line: Thunder -3.5, Total: 201) - It's bad enough for the Washington Wizards that they host an Oklahoma City Thunder team Saturday night that has reeled off 10 consecutive victories. But it gets worse, as the Thunder come in on the heels of a 120-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets that was so decisive, stars Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka were given the entire fourth quarter off. That should have them well-rested as they prepare to face a Wizards team coming off a 110-103 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Durant was expected to be a good bet to extend his string of games with 30-plus points to 13 - and he was, until the Thunder went up by 30 points in the third quarter and Durant was stapled to the bench after scoring 26 on 10-of-12 shooting. That wasn't even the most impressive performance of the night - that honor belonged to Serge Ibaka, who shot 12-for-12 for 25 points. The Wizards shot 51.1 percent against Los Angeles but were just 3-for-22 from 3-point range.
•ABOUT THE THUNDER (38-10 SU, 29-19-0 ATS): Durant had one of the most memorable months in NBA history. The three-time NBA scoring champion became the first player since Michael Jordan nearly 24 years earlier to finish a calendar month with at least 550 points and 90 assists - a testament to both his scoring touch and his ability to manage the offense when his shot isn't there. He led the team with seven assists in the one-sided win over Brooklyn, while connecting on three of Oklahoma City's five made 3-pointers.
•ABOUT THE WIZARDS (22-23 SU, 24-21-0 ATS): A handful of players who fell short of earning an All-Star berth have suggested they would use the snub as motivation for the second half of the season. Washington point guard John Wall was one of the lucky ones - earning his first career All-Star nod - but isn't planning to rest on his laurels as he looks to get his team back to the .500 mark. "I've been in the afterglow at home," he told the Washington Post, "but (Friday) I came here, got my work in, got workouts in and had a great practice."
•PREGAME NOTES: Oklahoma City pulled out a 106-105 overtime victory over visiting Washington in their previous encounter Nov. 10.... Durant averages 30.3 points in 11 career games versus the Wizards.... The Thunder are 5-3 in the second game of back-to-backs this season.... The Wizards are 13-3 versus the spread in home games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last three seasons.... Oklahoma City is 13-5 against the spread versus good passing teams, averaging more than 23 assists/game 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, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the spread 518 times, while WASHINGTON covered the spread 482 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY won the game straight up 598 times, while WASHINGTON won 385 times. In 1000 simulated games, 511 games went under the total, while 467 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the first half line 478 times, while WASHINGTON covered the first half line 477 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 512 games went under first half total, while 488 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--WASHINGTON is 19-13 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY since 1996.
--OKLAHOMA CITY is 18-15 straight up against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--17 of 31 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--WASHINGTON is 18-15 versus the first half line when playing against OKLAHOMA CITY since 1996.
--18 of 31 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Thunder are 6-14-1 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
--Thunder are 2-8 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Washington.
--Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Washington.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Thunder are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games.
--Thunder are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games overall.
--Thunder are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Wizards are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games.
--Wizards are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 5-1-1 in Wizards L7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
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#505 PHILADELPHIA @ #506 DETROIT
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, CSN Philadelphia, FSN Detroit - Line: Pistons -8.5, Total: 214.5) - The Detroit Pistons got plenty of time off this week thanks to a postponement in Atlanta on Wednesday and will finally get a chance to extend their winning streak to a whole two games when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. The Pistons snapped a four-game slide with a 103-87 win over Orlando on Tuesday to close out January with a 4-8 mark. The 76ers have dropped 11 of 14 after losing a 125-99 decision to the Hawks on Friday.
Detroit had allowed an average of 108.8 points during its four-game slide but turned in its best defensive performance of the month with a strong effort on the boards against the Magic. Philadelphia has its own issues on the defensive end and leads the NBA in average points allowed. The 76ers surrendered an average of 114.5 points in dropping each of the first two meetings with the Pistons this season, including a 115-100 trashing at Detroit on Dec. 1.
•ABOUT THE 76ERS (15-32 SU, 19-28-0 ATS): Philadelphia knocked off the Boston Celtics on Evan Turner’s last-second layup on Wednesday but could not carry that momentum to Friday and was smashed by the Hawks. The 95-94 triumph in Boston marked the lone time in the last nine games that the 76ers allowed less than 100 points and that sort of defensive effort has been a rarity for Philadelphia as it slumps toward the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The offense shows signs of something the team can build around but Turner, who leads the team in scoring at 18.2 points, struggles to consistently produce and posted only six points against the Hawks.
•ABOUT THE PISTONS (18-27 SU, 18-26-1 ATS): Andre Drummond posted 13 points and 17 rebounds in the win over the Magic to bounce back after a poor performance in the previous contest. “Everybody is entitled to have an off-night,” Drummond told reporters. “I had to come out and play with a lot more energy (against Orlando) than I had the night before.” Drummond had one of his best games against the Philadelphia front line, posting a career-high 31 points to go along with 19 rebounds and six steals in the last meeting against the 76ers. Drummond leads the Eastern Conference and ranks second in the NBA with 33 double-doubles.
•PREGAME NOTES: Detroit has taken five of the last six in the series, including three in a row at home.... Philadelphia G Michael Carter-Williams is struggling to 34.5 percent shooting in the last four games.... Pistons G Brandon Jennings is averaging 26 points in four games since being held scoreless on Jan. 20.... The Sixers are 12-2 Under versus poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.... The Pistons are 3-19 against the spread versus teams who average 9 or more steals/game on the season over the last three seasons.
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, DETROIT covered the spread 587 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the spread 413 times. *EDGE against the spread =DETROIT. In 1000 simulated games, DETROIT won the game straight up 763 times, while PHILADELPHIA won 216 times. In 1000 simulated games, 724 games went under the total, while 249 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, DETROIT covered the first half line 517 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the first half line 444 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 682 games went under first half total, while 288 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--DETROIT is 38-38 against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--DETROIT is 48-33 straight up against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--41 of 79 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DETROIT is 45-35 versus the first half line when playing against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--45 of 79 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--76ers are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--76ers are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Detroit.
--Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
--Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Detroit.
--Favorite is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Under is 6-0 in 76ers last 6 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Pistons are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Over is 7-1 in Pistons last 8 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 9-2 in Pistons last 11 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#507 MINNESOTA @ #508 ATLANTA
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, FSN North (Minnesota), SportSouth (Atlanta) - Line: Timberwolves -1, Total: 208.5) - The Atlanta Hawks will try to maintain their home dominance of the Minnesota Timberwolves when the two teams tangle Saturday night. Atlanta has won 10 straight meetings with Minnesota at home and 12 of the last 13 overall. Due to a cancellation earlier in the week after a winter storm paralyzed Atlanta roads, the Hawks have not played at home in over a week but have loads of momentum coming back to Philips Arena after a 125-99 win at Philadelphia on Friday.
The Timberwolves had won five of six to vault above .500 for the first time in over two months but fell right back to the even mark with a 94-90 loss at home to Memphis on Friday. Kevin Love scored 28 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in the setback while his fellow starters went 14-for-35 from the floor and failed to make a 3-pointer in four attempts. One of the top offenses in the league, Minnesota has been held to 95 points or fewer in three straight games.
•ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (23-23 SU, 25-21-0 ATS): The fact that Love received little support Friday night is notable, especially considering the fact that the All-Star forward was lugging himself around the floor early on with a sore left ankle. Love shook off the ailment to personally outscore the Grizzlies in the third quarter by an 18-14 margin, but could use a helping hand with fellow big man Nikola Pekovic out indefinitely with a case of bursitis. Kevin Martin, the team's second-leading scorer, is averaging 13.3 points - roughly six below his season average - on 38.6 percent shooting over his last three games while fourth-leading scorer Corey Brewer has produced a total of nine points on 3-of-11 shooting in his last two contests.
•ABOUT THE HAWKS (24-21 SU, 25-20-0 ATS): Point guard Jeff Teague returned Friday from a two-game layoff due to an ankle injury and showed immediately what he means to the Atlanta offense. Teague was just 3-for-10 from the floor but dished out eight assists against only one turnover in 24 minutes, the type of ratio that has been the Hawks' calling card this season. They entered Friday leading the Eastern Conference with a 1.73 assist-to-turnover ratio and recorded 36 assists - compared to 18 giveaways - in the rout of Philadelphia.
•PREGAME NOTES: Hawks F Mike Scott has scored in double digits in 10 straight games despite playing no more than 28 minutes in that span.... Timberwolves C Ronny Turiaf is averaging nine rebounds and 5.5 points in two starts in place of Pekovic.... Both teams entered Friday ranked in the top five in the NBA in assists, steals and foul shooting.... The Hawks are 8-20 against the spread in home games versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts over the last two seasons.... The Timberwolves are 40-24 Over in road games versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3-point shots/game on the season over the last three seasons.
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 547 times, while MINNESOTA covered the spread 426 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA won the game straight up 518 times, while MINNESOTA won 453 times. In 1000 simulated games, 569 games went under the total, while 431 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA covered the first half line 530 times, while MINNESOTA covered the first half line 470 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 543 games went under first half total, while 419 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--ATLANTA is 15-15 against the spread versus MINNESOTA since 1996.
--ATLANTA is 18-13 straight up against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--17 of 30 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--ATLANTA is 16-14 versus the first half line when playing against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--17 of 30 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Timberwolves are 3-0-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
--Timberwolves are 4-0-2 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Atlanta.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
--Underdog is 10-4-2 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
--Road team is 8-1-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall.
--Timberwolves are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 5-1-1 in Timberwolves L7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Hawks are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 6-1 in Hawks last 7 overall.
--Over is 6-0 in Hawks last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#509 CLEVELAND @ #510 HOUSTON
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, FSN Ohio (Cleveland), CSN Houston (Houston) - Line: Rockets -12, Total: 206.5) - The Houston Rockets look to take another step toward the top of the Southwest Division when they host the stumbling Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday night. The Rockets have won three straight - including one over division leader San Antonio - to trim its deficit in the Southwest to just three games, the smallest it has been in over a month. Houston has won 10 of its last 14 overall, including a 117-115 win at Dallas on Wednesday in its second straight game without injured All-Star James Harden, who is day-to-day with a bruised thumb.
Cleveland is heading in the other direction, losing five of its last six and perhaps bottoming out in a 31-point loss at New York on Thursday that came amid rumors that All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving wants out. Irving, who insisted he is happy in Cleveland, led the Cavaliers with 24 points while Dion Waiters added 21 in the setback. Cleveland played its second straight game without center Anderson Varejao, who was said to be a game-time decision with a knee injury.
•ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (16-30 SU, 19-27-0 ATS): Varejao's absence robs Cleveland of its top rebounder and perhaps its best defender and energy guy - and all three were severely lacking against the Knicks, who shot 56.6 percent while toying with the Cavaliers. The lackluster performance came a day after general manager Chris Grant said that the team's recent lack of effort was not acceptable. Outside of Irving and Waiters, Cleveland shot 13-for-47 from the field.
•ABOUT THE ROCKETS (31-17 SU, 24-22-2 ATS): Forward Chandler Parsons indicated after the win over Dallas that Houston has a "more balanced attack" without Harden and it is hard to argue with the results. The Rockets shot 55.4 percent from the field and improved to 2-0 since Harden sat with a bruised thumb, all after losing two straight - while averaging 84 points - with the All-Star in the lineup. Jeremy Lin, who had slumped a bit earlier in the month, started in Harden's place against San Antonio and Dallas, averaging 18 points and 7.5 assists.
•PREGAME NOTES: Harden scored 20 points as Houston posted a 116-78 rout in the previous meeting last March.... Houston entered Friday ranked fifth in the NBA with a 47.1 shooting percentage, while Cleveland was 29th at 42.3.... Rockets All-Star C Dwight Howard made 9-of-11 free throws against Dallas after converting only 22-of-50 over his previous four games.... The Cavaliers are 3-15 against the spread versus teams who are called for 2+ less fouls/game than their opponents over the last two seasons.... Houston is 16-5 versus the spread versus good 3-point shooting teams - making more than 36% of their attempts - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.
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, CLEVELAND covered the spread 626 times, while HOUSTON covered the spread 352 times. *EDGE against the spread =CLEVELAND. In 1000 simulated games, HOUSTON won the game straight up 654 times, while CLEVELAND won 322 times. In 1000 simulated games, 652 games went under the total, while 348 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, CLEVELAND covered the first half line 615 times, while HOUSTON covered the first half line 344 times. *EDGE against first half line =CLEVELAND. In 1000 simulated games, 622 games went under first half total, while 342 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--HOUSTON is 19-11 against the spread versus CLEVELAND since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 22-10 straight up against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--17 of 28 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 19-8 versus the first half line when playing against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--20 of 28 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Cavaliers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 after allowing 100 points or more.
--Cavaliers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Rockets are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
--Under is 11-1 in Rockets last 12 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Over is 3-0-1 in Rockets L4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
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#511 CHICAGO @ #512 NEW ORLEANS
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, WGN (Chicago), FSN New Orleans - Line: Bulls -1, Total: 183.5) - The Chicago Bulls couldn't have asked for a much better start to their pivotal six-game road trip. Coming off an impressive 10-point victory over San Antonio, the Bulls look to continue their good road vibes Saturday night as they visit the Pelicans in New Orleans. Chicago has won three consecutive road contests, while the Pelicans saw their three-game winning streak come to an end with an 88-77 defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday.
The Bulls find themselves in the mix for homecourt advantage in the opening round of the NBA playoffs despite playing the majority of the season without All-Star point guard Derrick Rose. Some of the credit for Chicago's recent strong play belongs to a former Toronto Raptors third-stringer who has rediscovered his form in the Windy City. D.J. Augustin has been a revelation for the Bulls, averaging 13.7 points and six assists since joining the team.
•ABOUT THE BULLS (23-22 SU, 21-24-0 ATS): Not only is Chicago playing good basketball without its on-court leader, but it also received some potentially good news on the Rose front. A source told the Chicago Sun-Times that Rose is ahead in his recovery from surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, and may return to practice with the team before the end of the regular season. "I don't want to jump to any conclusions, just going step-by-step," head coach Tom Thibodeau said. "Just make sure he's completely healthy, that's all we're thinking about."
•ABOUT THE PELICANS (19-26 SU, 20-23-2 ATS): New Orleans forward Anthony Davis missed Wednesday's game against Minnesota with a dislocated finger and is having a sensational second NBA season, but it wasn't enough to earn him a spot on the Western Conference All-Star roster. The 20-year-old, who averages 20.4 points and 10.4 rebounds, was his usual diplomatic self when speaking to the media about the snub. "All-Star is going to be here for the next X amount of years," Davis said. "We're trying to focus on winning. We're not where we want to be record-wise. That's what I've got to focus on." Davis is a game-time decision to play against the Bulls.
•PREGAME NOTES: The teams have split the previous four meetings, with New Orleans prevailing 131-128 in overtime in their last encounter Dec. 2.... Davis had 15 points and 10 rebounds in his only career meeting with the Bulls.... Augustin is shooting 42.7 percent from the field and the 3-point line with Chicago after hitting at just 29.2 and 9.1 percent, respectively, with Toronto.... The Bulls are 22-7 against the spread in road games versus good ball handling teams - committing less than 14 turnovers/game over the last two seasons.... The Pelicans are 15-5 Under when playing against a team with a winning record 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, NEW ORLEANS covered the spread 593 times, while CHICAGO covered the spread 387 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, NEW ORLEANS won the game straight up 572 times, while CHICAGO won 407 times. In 1000 simulated games, 614 games went over the total, while 386 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW ORLEANS covered the first half line 577 times, while CHICAGO covered the first half line 423 times. *EDGE against first half line =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, 569 games went over first half total, while 431 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--CHICAGO is 33-21 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 29-26 straight up against NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--31 of 53 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 36-17 versus the first half line when playing against NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--30 of 55 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bulls are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings in New Orleans.
--Over is 14-2-1 in the last 17 meetings in New Orleans.
--Road team is 8-0 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games.
--Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Saturday games.
--Under is 4-0 in Bulls last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Pelicans are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a S.U. loss.
--Pelicans are 1-6-1 ATS in their L8 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Under is 4-1-1 in Pelicans last 6 home games.
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#513 MILWAUKEE @ #514 MEMPHIS
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee), SportSouth (Memphis) - Line: Grizzlies -13, Total: 182) - The Memphis Grizzlies have turned their season around in the last five weeks and look to avoid a letdown when they host the struggling Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. The Grizzlies have won 10 of their last 11 contests – six of them by five points or less -- to climb within a half game of eighth place in the Western Conference after beating Minnesota 94-90 on Friday. Milwaukee has won only once in the last 15 games and lost its fifth straight 113-102 at Orlando on Friday.
Memphis could be without leading scorer Mike Conley, who suffered an ankle injury in Friday’s victory and will re-evaluated Saturday. Inside force Zach Randolph led the way with his 28th double-double of the season against Minnesota and will be depended on as the Grizzlies play for the fourth time in five nights. The Bucks own the league’s worst record and have lost eight in a row on the road.
•ABOUT THE BUCKS (8-38 SU, 15-31-0 ATS): Milwaukee was without two of its three top scorers in guard O.J. Mayo (illness) and forward John Henson (sprained wrist) against Orlando and turned the ball over 13 times in the first half. Leading scorer Brandon Knight (15.9) was held to 10 points Friday while veteran Caron Butler led the way with 20. Guard Gary Neal, playing for only the second time in 13 games, scored 13 at Orlando as the Bucks totaled 100 points for the second straight game after averaging 83.7 over the previous three.
•ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (25-20 SU, 22-22-1 ATS): Conley, who averages 18 points and 6.3 points, has been getting strong support from newly-acquired Courtney Lee in the backcourt. Lee is averaging 14.2 points over 12 games since coming over from Boston in a trade, including 16 on 5-of-7 shooting Friday. Randolph has contributed 17.3 points and 10.6 rebounds overall and got a big boost from the return of 7-1 center Marc Gasol, who has averaged 10.3 points in nine games since returning from an MCL injury.
•PREGAME NOTES: Memphis G Tony Allen, averaging 10.2 points, has missed 13 straight games due to a sprained left wrist and is listed day-to-day.... Bucks G/F Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 15 points Friday – his most since Dec. 27 – and was named to the NBA Rising Stars Challenge on All Star weekend.... Grizzlies F James Johnson had 15 points, matching a season high, in his team’s 82-77 victory over Milwaukee on Jan. 15.... The Bucks are 11-30 against the spread versus teams who are called for 21 or less fouls/game - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.... Memphis is 9-22 versus the spread in home games versus poor rebounding teams - outrebounded by opponents by 3+ per game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
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, MILWAUKEE covered the spread 523 times, while MEMPHIS covered the spread 451 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, MEMPHIS won the game straight up 785 times, while MILWAUKEE won 188 times. In 1000 simulated games, 657 games went over the total, while 323 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, MILWAUKEE covered the first half line 534 times, while MEMPHIS covered the first half line 466 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 609 games went over first half total, while 391 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--MEMPHIS is 17-15 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--MEMPHIS is 16-16 straight up against MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--17 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--MEMPHIS is 19-12 versus the first half line when playing against MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--21 of 31 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bucks are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Memphis.
--Under is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings.
--Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Memphis.
--Underdog is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
--Road team is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 after allowing 100 points or more.
--Under is 4-0 in Bucks last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Grizzlies are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
--Under is 6-0 in Grizzlies last 6 games following a ATS win.
--Under is 4-0 in Grizzlies last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
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#515 MIAMI @ #516 NEW YORK
(TV: 8:30 PM EST, ESPN, Sun Sports (Miami), MSG (New York) - Line: Heat -4.5, Total: 201) - Miami is coming off a rare beatdown and New York is thriving with a four-game winning streak as the teams face off at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. Miami suffered a 112-95 loss to the Oklahoma City on Wednesday – the worst home loss since LeBron James joined the club – and is scuffling along with a 5-5 mark over the past three weeks that began with a loss in New York on Jan. 9. The Knicks have won four straight games, three of them by 26 or more points.
New York routed the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-86 on Thursday as Carmelo Anthony scored 29 points for his 10th consecutive 20-point outing. Anthony also became the 50th player in NBA history to top 19,000 career points and had a solid all-around showing (29 points, eight rebounds and five assists) in the recent win over the Heat. Miami is three games behind the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference race and coach Erik Spoelstra is aware the Heat can get better. “We have some work to do,” Spoelstra said. “We’re like everybody else in the league. Nobody is infallible. We have some things to improve on. We know the things we have to improve on. We’re not there yet.”
•ABOUT THE HEAT (32-13 SU, 19-26-0 ATS): Forward Chris Bosh is heading to his ninth All-Star Game while thriving as the third option to stars LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. “It’s still a big deal for me,” Bosh told reporters. “Every year, it’s a question mark for me to be honest with you. I have to play a different role and I have to play well in that role. And it’s changed every year that I’ve been here. I still find a way to kind of get it done. It’s a good feeling.” Bosh’s season average is 16.9 but he has topped 20 points in six of the last eight games.
•ABOUT THE KNICKS (19-27 SU, 20-26-0 ATS): Rookie guard Tim Hardaway Jr. scored a season-best 29 points in the win over the Cavaliers and tied a franchise rookie mark with six 3-pointers. Hardaway is averaging 21 points over the last three games while going 23-of-39 from the field, including 12-of-21 from 3-point range. “I knew that if I could shoot the ball very, very well at the next level, then I should be able to help the team out,” Hardaway said afterward. Hardaway is averaging 9.1 points and shooting 47 percent from the field.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Knicks have won four of the last five meetings.... New York G Iman Shumpert (shoulder) is questionable and missed the game against Cleveland.... Miami is just 7-12 when allowing 100 or more points.... The Knicks are 23-8 against the spread in home games versus teams who are called for 21 or less fouls/game - 2nd half of the season over the last three seasons.... The Heat are 11-2 versus the spread in road games when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.
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 609 times, while MIAMI covered the spread 391 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK won the game straight up 487 times, while MIAMI won 486 times. In 1000 simulated games, 655 games went over the total, while 317 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK covered the first half line 593 times, while MIAMI covered the first half line 407 times. *EDGE against first half line =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, 648 games went over first half total, while 352 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--NEW YORK is 51-41 against the spread versus MIAMI since 1996.
--MIAMI is 50-45 straight up against NEW YORK since 1996.
--51 of 89 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--NEW YORK is 46-46 versus the first half line when playing against MIAMI since 1996.
--60 of 93 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Heat are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Under is 12-4-1 in the last 17 meetings.
--Under is 8-0 in the last 8 meetings in New York.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-0 in Heat last 4 Saturday games.
--Over is 4-0 in Heat last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Under is 4-0 in Heat last 4 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 after scoring 100 points or more.
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#517 SACRAMENTO @ #518 SAN ANTONIO
(TV: 8:30 PM EST, CSN California (Sacramento), KENS (San Antonio) - Line: Spurs -10.5, Total: 205.5) - The Sacramento Kings would love to get DeMarcus Cousins back from an ankle injury as they attempt to snap a six-game slide. The San Antonio Spurs, who host the Kings on Saturday, have no sympathy for anyone else’s injury concerns. The Spurs are enduring a season-long three-game losing streak while playing without Tiago Splitter (shoulder), Kawhi Leonard (hand), Danny Green (hand) and Manu Ginobili (hamstring).
Splitter is the closest of the four to a return but is unlikely to suit up on Saturday against a Kings frontcourt that is struggling without Cousins. The budding star was a notable exception from the Western Conference All-Star roster and Sacramento has been forced to go to a smaller lineup much of the time without the double-double machine on the floor in the last five games. San Antonio would love to make its losing streak a thing of the past and gain some momentum for an eight-game road trip that kicks off on Monday in New Orleans.
•ABOUT THE KINGS (15-31 SU, 20-24-2 ATS): Sacramento won’t put up as much of a fight defensively as the Bulls did but Jeffers and Parker will get a workout on the defensive end trying to chase down Rudy Gay and Isaiah Thomas. Those two combined for 54 points on Friday but no one else on the roster managed double figures in a 107-103 loss at Dallas. Aaron Gray started in Cousins’ spot at center but only scored four points in 23 minutes as Sacramento rotated Gray, Quincy Acy, Carl Landry and Derrick Williams to fill out the front line with Gay.
•ABOUT THE SPURS (33-13 SU, 22-24-0 ATS): San Antonio put up a good fight when Splitter and Green first went down but the losses of Leonard and Ginobili are more difficult to cover despite the team’s depth. The Spurs are giving heavy minutes to a rotation of guards surrounding Tony Parker and even broke recent signing Othyus Jeffers into the starting lineup against the Bulls on Wednesday due to the need for a wing defender with Leonard out. San Antonio is slipping offensively over the last three contests and had a pair of starters (Jeffers and Jeff Ayres) go scoreless in the 96-86 loss to Chicago.
•PREGAME NOTES: San Antonio has won seven straight in the series, including a 112-104 win at home on Dec. 29.... Gay went 10-of-16 from the field in each of the last two games after returning from a three-game absence.... Spurs F Tim Duncan has five double-doubles in the last six games.... The Kings are 36-16 Over versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts over the last two seasons.... San Antonio is 20-8 Under in home games versus poor pressure defensive teams - forcing less than 14 turnovers/game over the last two seasons.
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, SAN ANTONIO covered the spread 529 times, while SACRAMENTO covered the spread 471 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, SAN ANTONIO won the game straight up 780 times, while SACRAMENTO won 202 times. In 1000 simulated games, 668 games went over the total, while 332 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, SAN ANTONIO covered the first half line 483 times, while SACRAMENTO covered the first half line 476 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 598 games went over first half total, while 402 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--SACRAMENTO is 34-33 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 49-21 straight up against SACRAMENTO since 1996.
--35 of 66 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 44-25 versus the first half line when playing against SACRAMENTO since 1996.
--34 of 68 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings.
--Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in San Antonio.
--Road team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-0-2 in Kings last 6 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 3-0-1 in Kings last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 7-1-1 in Kings last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
--Spurs are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games following a double-digit loss at home.
--Over is 4-0 in Spurs last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Under is 5-0 in Spurs last 5 games following a ATS loss.
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#519 CHARLOTTE @ #520 PHOENIX
(TV: 9:00 PM EST, SportSouth (Charlotte), FSN Arizona (Phoenix) - Line: Suns -8.5, Total: 204.5) - Al Jefferson is on a tear and the Phoenix Suns will try to slow him down when the Charlotte Bobcats visit on Saturday. Jefferson matched his career high with 40 points and also collected 18 rebounds as Charlotte improved to 2-0 on a four-game road trip with a solid 110-100 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Jefferson has scored 20 or more points in 11 consecutive games, surpassing Jason Richardson’s franchise mark from the 2007-08 campaign.
Phoenix has won four straight games and six of the last seven – with two of the victories coming against the Indiana Pacers. The Suns haven’t missed a beat with guard Eric Bledsoe (knee) sidelined as point guard Goran Dragic continues to stand out. Dragic is averaging 27.3 points on 29-of-47 shooting over the past three games to raise his career-best average to 19.9. The Suns are 10 games above .500 and have the sixth-best mark in the Western Conference.
•ABOUT THE BOBCATS (20-27 SU, 26-20-2 ATS): Charlotte has been without guard Kemba Walker (ankle) for the past six games and Jefferson has stepped up to be an even bigger focal point of the offense. The veteran center is averaging 35.7 points over the last three games – scoring at least 32 points in each outing – and scored 16 final-quarter points in the win over the Lakers. “I have those moments,” Jefferson said afterward. “They kept running plays for me and I kept scoring.” Jefferson is averaging 19.9 points and 10.7 rebounds.
•ABOUT THE SUNS (28-18 SU, 31-14-1 ATS): Sharpshooter Gerald Green has played a big role in Phoenix’s success after being acquired from the Indiana Pacers in the offseason. The journeyman is averaging a career-best 14.1 points and has already set a career high with 110 3-pointers. Green is averaging 23 points over the past three games, which included a season-best 30 points against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. “For us, Gerald’s always the key,” Phoenix coach Jeff Hornacek told reporters. “When he plays well and in control, we seem to have a pretty good game.”
•PREGAME NOTES: The Suns have won the last four meetings, including a 98-91 victory in Charlotte on Nov. 22.... Bobcats PG Ramon Sessions had a season-best 13 assists against the Lakers and is averaging 10.3 over the past three games.... Phoenix backup F Markieff Morris has scored in double digits in nine straight games and is averaging 18.2 points during the stretch.... The Bobcats are 15-31 against the spread versus poor passing teams, averaging less than 20 assists/game over the last three seasons.... The Suns are 4-13 versus the spread in home games when playing eight or more games in 14 days over the last two seasons.
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 508 times, while CHARLOTTE covered the spread 492 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, PHOENIX won the game straight up 717 times, while CHARLOTTE won 266 times. In 1000 simulated games, 538 games went under the total, while 462 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, CHARLOTTE covered the first half line 497 times, while PHOENIX covered the first half line 471 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 546 games went under first half total, while 419 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PHOENIX is 9-8 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--PHOENIX is 13-5 straight up against CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--12 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHARLOTTE is 10-8 versus the first half line when playing against PHOENIX since 1996.
--12 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
--Over is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in Phoenix.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-1 in Bobcats last 5 Saturday games.
--Over is 6-1 in Bobcats last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 4-0 in Bobcats last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Over is 9-1-1 in Suns last 11 Saturday games.
--Over is 6-1 in Suns last 7 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 16-4-1 in Suns last 21 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#521 TORONTO @ #522 PORTLAND
(TV: 10:00 PM EST, TSN (Toronto), CSN Northwest (Portland) - Line: Trail Blazers -7, Total: 204.5) - The Portland Trail Blazers are struggling through a tough stretch and will certainly face a challenge when they host the soaring Toronto Raptors on Saturday. Portland has lost four of its last six games and the last two in that stretch qualify as the team’s worst back-to-back showings of the campaign. Toronto began a five-game road trip on Friday by winning in Denver for the first time in 10-plus years and has won five of its last six outings.
The Raptors are a season-best four games above. 500 and have opened up a four-game lead over the Brooklyn Nets in the Atlantic Division. All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan returned after a two-game absence due to an ankle injury and scored 19 points. Portland has averaged just 84.5 points in consecutive defeats by an average of 16 points and was particularly dreadful in Tuesday’s 98-81 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge continues to excel and has posted double-doubles in nine of the last 10 games.
•ABOUT THE RAPTORS (25-21 SU, 28-18-0 ATS): Second-year forward Terrence Ross opened eyes with a 51-point performance against the Los Angeles Clippers on Jan. 25 and then made just 7-of-22 shots over the ensuing two games. He was back on his game against the Nuggets, going 7-of-10 from the field while scoring 18 points. Ross has scored in double digits in five consecutive games after not having a streak longer than three prior to the best scoring stretch of his short career. The 6-6 Ross is averaging 10.3 points after posting a 6.4 average as a rookie.
•ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (33-13 SU, 25-21-0 ATS): Portland’s last two performances have been woeful offensively, an oddity for one of the league’s most-explosive teams. The Trail Blazers shot a season-worst 33.7 percent in Sunday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors and checked in at just 34.5 percent against Memphis. “We’re in a rough patch right now,” guard Damian Lillard said after the loss to the Grizzlies. “We got off to a slow start. We’re not shooting the ball very well and we’ve got to defend better. We’ve played so well, we were due for a rough patch and a little bit of adversity.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Portland has won nine of the past 10 meetings, including a 118-110 overtime win in Toronto on Nov. 17.... Raptors F Patrick Patterson (broken nose) returned after a one-game absence and scored nine points in 24 minutes against Denver while sporting a mask.... Aldridge ranks second in the NBA with 22 games of at least 20 points and 10 rebounds, trailing only Minnesota’s Kevin Love (28).... The Raptors are 14-4 against the spread versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts this season.... Portland is 18-8 Over versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game 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, TORONTO covered the spread 546 times, while PORTLAND covered the spread 436 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, PORTLAND won the game straight up 620 times, while TORONTO won 362 times. In 1000 simulated games, 639 games went over the total, while 361 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, TORONTO covered the first half line 520 times, while PORTLAND covered the first half line 480 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 566 games went over first half total, while 396 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--TORONTO is 17-15 against the spread versus PORTLAND since 1996.
--PORTLAND is 22-10 straight up against TORONTO since 1996.
--16 of 30 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--PORTLAND is 16-14 versus the first half line when playing against TORONTO since 1996.
--17 of 29 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Raptors are 1-8 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
--Raptors are 0-5 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Portland.
--Favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Raptors are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 Saturday games.
--Raptors are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Raptors are 5-1 ATS L6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Under is 5-0-1 in Trail Blazers last 6 games following a ATS loss.
--Under is 4-0 in Trail Blazers last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Trail Blazers last 4 when their opponent scores 100 points or more.
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#523 UTAH @ #524 LA CLIPPERS
(TV: 10:30 PM EST, ROOT Sports (Utah), Prime Ticket (Los Angeles) - Line: Clippers -13, Total: 205.5) - The Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz are both coming off a loss to the Golden State Warriors and each will try to avoid that turning into a lengthy slide when the Clippers host the Jazz on Saturday. The road-weary Clippers were trounced by the Warriors on Thursday but finally got a day off and will settle into their own building with Utah after eight of nine on the road. The Jazz ended a four-game homestand with a 2-2 mark with Friday’s 95-90 loss.
The travel finally appeared to catch up with Los Angeles, which went out on the road for seven games, returned for one and headed right out to play the second night of a back-to-back at Golden State on Thursday. “The energy was bad,” Blake Griffin told reporters of the 111-92 loss. “I was talking to some guys after the game, didn’t really feel like I ever had that wind or that second level. Everybody has to play games like this, coming off a seven-game road trip, go home, fly here, back-to-back.” Utah will be the team on a back-to-back Saturday and suffered a 98-90 loss the last time it visited the Clippers on Dec. 28.
•ABOUT THE JAZZ (16-30 SU, 21-22-3 ATS): Utah was trying to secure its first three-game winning streak of the season but squandered a nine-point lead in the fourth quarter on Friday. Gordon Hayward committed eight turnovers in the loss and Trey Burke struggled to four points on 2-of-10 shooting, failing to make up in the backcourt what the team lost in the frontcourt with Derrick Favors (hip) sitting out the game. Favors has been battling the hip issue since Jan. 18 and sat out two of the last four games while posting double-doubles in the other two contests - both wins.
•ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (33-16 SU, 28-21-0 ATS): Griffin scored 40 points against the Jazz in the Dec. 28 meeting and continues to excel without Chris Paul (shoulder) available. The All-Star forward put up 26.4 points on 57.8 percent shooting in the last five games and is taking his leadership duties seriously. “I need to step up,” Griffin said. “Chris is a big part of our team and when he’s gone it obviously leaves a big gap. We’re just trying to fill that, not trying to replace him or do what he does, but do it my own way.” Griffin and company will finally get a chance to settle back in at home with a stretch of six of seven at home.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Clippers have taken seven straight in the series, and have won the last three by an average of 10.7 points.... Jazz F Marvin Williams (heel) sat out Friday and is day-to-day.... Los Angeles C DeAndre Jordan has hauled in double-digit rebounds in 26 straight games... The Jazz are 7-0 Under off a cover where the team lost the game straight up as an underdog this season.... The Clippers are 12-3 Under versus terrible teams - outscored by their opponents by 6+ points/game over the last two seasons.
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 499 times, while UTAH covered the spread 472 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS won the game straight up 788 times, while UTAH won 196 times. In 1000 simulated games, 535 games went under the total, while 465 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, UTAH covered the first half line 541 times, while LA CLIPPERS covered the first half line 459 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 530 games went under first half total, while 470 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--UTAH is 38-29 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--UTAH is 48-20 straight up against LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--37 of 68 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--LA CLIPPERS is 36-31 versus the first half line when playing against UTAH since 1996.
--38 of 68 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Jazz are 19-7 ATS in the last 26 meetings.
--Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.
--Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in Los Angeles.
--Favorite is 13-6 ATS in the last 19 meetings.
--Home team is 22-8 ATS in the last 30 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Jazz are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Jazz are 2-0-2 ATS in their last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Jazz last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Clippers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS loss.
--Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Clippers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points.
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NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
INFORMATION WORTH BETTING ON EACH DAY
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***** Saturday, 2/1/14 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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Betting Notes - Saturday
•Hot Teams
-- Washington is 11-3 versus spread in its last 14 road games. Thunder won its last ten games (9-1 vs. spread).
-- Atlanta won four of last six games, covered last three. Timberwolves won five of their last seven games.
-- Rockets won five of their last seven games.
-- Memphis won nine of last ten games, covered last five.
-- Bulls won five of their last seven games. Pelicans won three of four.
-- New York won/covered its last four games. Miami won three of last four games, covered one of last five.
-- Phoenix won/covered six of its last seven games. Bobcats won/covered four of last six games.
-- Raptors won five of their last six games.
-- Jazz are 6-2-1 versus spread in game following its last nine losses.
•Cold Teams
-- Indiana lost three of its last five games. Nets lost last two games after winning 10 of previous 11.
-- 76ers won/covered once in last five games.
-- Cavaliers won/covered once in last six games.
-- Bucks lost nine of last ten games (0-5 vs. spread last five).
-- San Antonio lost five of its last seven games. Kings lost last six games (4-2-1 vs spread on road).
-- Portland lost four of its last six games.
-- Clippers are 4-5 in their last nine games.
•Totals
-- Over is 6-2-1 in last nine Indiana games.
-- Seven of last eight Thunder-Wizard games went over.
-- Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Minnesota games.
-- Four of last five Detroit games went over total.
-- Five of last six Cleveland games stayed under total.
-- Last six Milwaukee-Memphis games stayed under.
-- Four of last five Chicago games stayed under total.
-- Over is 8-2-1 in last eleven Sacramento-San Antonio games.
-- Five of last six Miami games went over the total.
-- Eight of last twelve Phoenix games went over total.
-- Under is 4-0-1 in last five Portland games.
-- 13 of last 16 Clipper-Jazz games went over the total.
•Back-To-Backs
-- Nets are 3-2 versus spread on road if they played night before.
-- Thunder is 6-2 versus spread if they played night before.
-- Atlanta is 3-6 versus spread if they played night before.
-- 76ers are 1-7 versus spread if they lost the night before.
-- Bucks are 3-11 versus spread if they played the night before. Memphis is 4-0 versus spread if they played on road the night before.
-- Sacramento is 4-6 versus spread if it played night before.
-- Charlotte is 1-7 versus spread if it played on road night before.
-- Toronto is 5-2 versus spread if it played on road night before.
-- Utah is 3-1 versus spread on road if it played at home night before.
•Series Records
-- Pacers are 3-0 versus Brooklyn this year, winning by 15-17-14 points.
-- Thunder won seven of last nine games with Washington.
-- Hawks won eight of last nine games with Minnesota.
-- 76ers lost five of last six games with Detroit.
-- Rockets won four of last five games with Cleveland.
-- Grizzlies won last six games with Milwaukee (4-2 vs. spread).
-- Bulls won nine of last 11 games with New Orleans; Chicago won last five visits to Bourbon Street.
-- Spurs won seven in row, 17 of last 18 versus Sacramento (7-5 vs. spread in last 12 meetings).
-- Knicks won five of last seven games with Miami.
-- Suns won last four games with Charlotte, covered last three.
-- Trailblazers won nine of last ten games with Toronto.
-- Clippers won last seven games with Utah (3-4 vs. spread).
•Situational Trends of The Day
-- BROOKLYN is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) in road games when playing 6 or less games in 14 days over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was BROOKLYN 101.0, OPPONENT 93.7.
-- ATLANTA is 12-2 OVER (+9.8 Units) after a game where they made 50% of their 3 point shots or better over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was ATLANTA 106.5, OPPONENT 98.4.
-- SAN ANTONIO is 12-2 (+9.8 Units) against the 1rst half line off an upset loss as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was SAN ANTONIO 55.9, OPPONENT 44.1.
-- PHILADELPHIA is 13-2 OVER (+10.8 Units) the 1rst half total revenging a same season loss versus opponent this season.
The average score was PHILADELPHIA 54.6, OPPONENT 57.2.
-- RANDY WITTMAN is 36-13 UNDER (+21.7 Units) after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games as the coach of WASHINGTON.
The average score was WITTMAN 92.9, OPPONENT 95.3.
•Matchup Trends of The Day
-- INDIANA is 10-0 ATS (+10.0 Units) versus poor rebounding teams - outrebounded by opponents by 3+ per game this season.
The average score was INDIANA 101.0, OPPONENT 86.7.
-- WASHINGTON is 20-4 UNDER (+15.6 Units) versus good 3 point shooting teams - making >=36% of their attempts - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was WASHINGTON 90.8, OPPONENT 93.7.
-- MINNESOTA is 14-1 against the 1rst half line (+12.9 Units) in road games when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was MINNESOTA 52.3, OPPONENT 47.1.
-- WASHINGTON is 15-0 OVER (+15.0 Units) the 1rst half total in home games versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was WASHINGTON 53.3, OPPONENT 54.6.
-- BRETT BROWN is 21-5 OVER (+15.5 Units) the 1rst half total versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game as the coach of PHILADELPHIA.
The average score was BROWN 53.6, OPPONENT 57.2.
•Situation Analysis of The Day
-- Play Against - Road underdogs of +145 to +350 versus the money line (PHILADELPHIA) - cold team - having lost 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, revenging 2 straight losses versus opponent of 10 points or more, a bad team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record.
(28-1 over the last 5 seasons.) (96.6%, +26.8 units. Rating = 6*)
The average money line posted in these games was: Team favored with a money line of: -125
The average score in these games was: Team 105.2, Opponent 94.6 (Average point differential = +10.6)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0, +0 units).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (10-0, +10 units).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (60-15, +19.5 units).
-- Play On - Road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (OKLAHOMA CITY) - average defensive team (92-98 PPG) against a poor defensive team (98-102 PPG) after 42+ games, after 2 or more consecutive overs, a very good team (>=+7 PPG differential) against an average team (+/- 3 PPG differential).
(42-11 since 1996.) (79.2%, +29.9 units. Rating = 4*)
The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (48-6)
The average line posted in these games was: Team favored by 5.7
The average score in these games was: Team 102.5, Opponent 91.1 (Average point differential = +11.4)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 23 (45.1% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (10-3).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (19-5).
-- Play Under - Home teams where the total is 200 to 209.5 (ATLANTA) - average ball handling team (14.5-16.5 TO) versus an average pressure defense (14.5-16.5 TO), after going over the total by 48 or more points total in their last ten games, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season.
(42-11 over the last 5 seasons.) (79.2%, +29.9 units. Rating = 4*)
The average total posted in these games was: 204.3
The average score in these games was: Team 99.7, Opponent 97.4 (Total points scored = 197.1)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 30 (58.8% of all games.)
The situation's record this season is: (8-2).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (25-9).
Since 1996 the situation's record is: (95-64).
-- Play On - Favorites of 6 or more points versus the first half line (MEMPHIS) - good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO's) against a poor pressure defense (<=14.5 TO's), after successfully covering the spread in 5 or more consecutive games, extremely tired team - when playing their 3rd game in 4 days.
(24-5 since 1996.) (82.8%, +18.5 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Team favored by 7.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 57.5, Opponent 44.4 (Average first half point differential = +13.1)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (5-1).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (9-2).
-- Play Under - All teams where the first half total is between 90.5 and 95.5 points (CHICAGO) - revenging a same season loss versus opponent, after 2 or more consecutive unders, an average offensive team (92-98 PPG) against a horrible defensive team (>=102 PPG).
(37-9 since 1996.) (80.4%, +27.1 units. Rating = 4*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 94.2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 44.5, Opponent 41.6 (Total first half points scored = 86.1)
The situation's record this season is: (2-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (4-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (9-3).
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Saturday's Match-ups
#501 BROOKLYN @ #502 INDIANA
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, YES (Brooklyn), FSN Indiana - Line: Pacers -10, Total: 188.5) - The Brooklyn Nets finish a two-day test against the top teams in each conference when they visit the Eastern-leading Indiana Pacers on Saturday. The Nets went 10-1 in January before dropping a one-point decision to Toronto on Monday and falling 120-95 on Friday against Oklahoma City, which leads the West and owns the NBA's best record. Paul George leads the Pacers, who dropped three of their last five games but boast a trio of victories over Brooklyn by an average of 12 points this season.
Indiana lost for only the second time in 23 home games Thursday against Phoenix and has seen its lead in the East shrink to three games over Miami. The Pacers allow the least points in the league (90.5) and Brooklyn is in the bottom third of the NBA in scoring. Brooklyn was 4-1 on the road in January after dropping four straight away from home at the end of December.
•ABOUT THE NETS (20-24 SU, 21-23-0 ATS): Brooklyn allowed Oklahoma City to shoot a season-high 63.6 percent from the field, was pounded on the boards 41-17 and trailed by 28 at halftime. Paul Pierce followed up his season-high 33-point effort with 10 in 31 minutes Friday and Kevin Garnett did not score in 12 minutes, going 0-of-4 from the field. The Nets’ leading active scorer Joe Johnson has struggled of late, averaging only eight points and shooting 33 percent from the field over the last four contests.
•ABOUT THE PACERS (35-10 SU, 29-16-0 ATS): George looks to break out of a mini shooting slump after making only 15-of-56 from the field the last three games, but averages 23 points overall – 24.7 including 10-of-22 shooting from 3-point range against Brooklyn. Lance Stephenson is averaging 19 points over the last four for the Pacers and is shooting a team-high 49.9 percent from the floor. Roy Hibbert, who leads the team in rebounding (7.8), along with David West and George Hill have also come through on the offensive end.
•PREGAME NOTES: Indiana has held 10 opponents to fewer than 80 points and is 21-0 when limiting teams to fewer than 90.... Nets G Marquis Teague, acquired from Chicago in mid January, scored seven points in 12 minutes in his Brooklyn debut Friday.... The Pacers led the league in defensive rebounds and defensive rebounding percentage through Thursday’s games.... The Pacers are 9-1 against the spread in home games versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts this season.... The Nets are 11-1 versus the spread in road games when playing 6 or less games in 14 days over the last two seasons.
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, BROOKLYN covered the spread 511 times, while INDIANA covered the spread 464 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, INDIANA won the game straight up 730 times, while BROOKLYN won 245 times. In 1000 simulated games, 556 games went over the total, while 444 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, BROOKLYN covered the first half line 514 times, while INDIANA covered the first half line 443 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 491 games went over first half total, while 480 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--BROOKLYN is 37-35 against the spread versus INDIANA since 1996.
--INDIANA is 42-34 straight up against BROOKLYN since 1996.
--43 of 72 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--BROOKLYN is 46-26 versus the first half line when playing against INDIANA since 1996.
--38 of 72 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Nets are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Indiana.
--Over is 27-13-1 in the last 41 meetings.
--Over is 15-5-1 in the last 21 meetings in Indiana.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Favorite is 20-7 ATS in the last 27 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Nets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
--Under is 4-1-1 in Nets last 6 road games.
--Under is 4-1 in Nets last 5 Saturday games.
--Pacers are 6-0 ATS L6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Pacers are 7-0 ATS L7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
--Over is 6-1 in Pacers last 7 Saturday games.
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#503 OKLAHOMA CITY @ #504 WASHINGTON
(TV: 7:00 PM EST, FSN Oklahoma (Oklahoma City), CSN Mid-Atlantic (Washington) - Line: Thunder -3.5, Total: 201) - It's bad enough for the Washington Wizards that they host an Oklahoma City Thunder team Saturday night that has reeled off 10 consecutive victories. But it gets worse, as the Thunder come in on the heels of a 120-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets that was so decisive, stars Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka were given the entire fourth quarter off. That should have them well-rested as they prepare to face a Wizards team coming off a 110-103 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Durant was expected to be a good bet to extend his string of games with 30-plus points to 13 - and he was, until the Thunder went up by 30 points in the third quarter and Durant was stapled to the bench after scoring 26 on 10-of-12 shooting. That wasn't even the most impressive performance of the night - that honor belonged to Serge Ibaka, who shot 12-for-12 for 25 points. The Wizards shot 51.1 percent against Los Angeles but were just 3-for-22 from 3-point range.
•ABOUT THE THUNDER (38-10 SU, 29-19-0 ATS): Durant had one of the most memorable months in NBA history. The three-time NBA scoring champion became the first player since Michael Jordan nearly 24 years earlier to finish a calendar month with at least 550 points and 90 assists - a testament to both his scoring touch and his ability to manage the offense when his shot isn't there. He led the team with seven assists in the one-sided win over Brooklyn, while connecting on three of Oklahoma City's five made 3-pointers.
•ABOUT THE WIZARDS (22-23 SU, 24-21-0 ATS): A handful of players who fell short of earning an All-Star berth have suggested they would use the snub as motivation for the second half of the season. Washington point guard John Wall was one of the lucky ones - earning his first career All-Star nod - but isn't planning to rest on his laurels as he looks to get his team back to the .500 mark. "I've been in the afterglow at home," he told the Washington Post, "but (Friday) I came here, got my work in, got workouts in and had a great practice."
•PREGAME NOTES: Oklahoma City pulled out a 106-105 overtime victory over visiting Washington in their previous encounter Nov. 10.... Durant averages 30.3 points in 11 career games versus the Wizards.... The Thunder are 5-3 in the second game of back-to-backs this season.... The Wizards are 13-3 versus the spread in home games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last three seasons.... Oklahoma City is 13-5 against the spread versus good passing teams, averaging more than 23 assists/game 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, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the spread 518 times, while WASHINGTON covered the spread 482 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY won the game straight up 598 times, while WASHINGTON won 385 times. In 1000 simulated games, 511 games went under the total, while 467 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, OKLAHOMA CITY covered the first half line 478 times, while WASHINGTON covered the first half line 477 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 512 games went under first half total, while 488 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--WASHINGTON is 19-13 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY since 1996.
--OKLAHOMA CITY is 18-15 straight up against WASHINGTON since 1996.
--17 of 31 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--WASHINGTON is 18-15 versus the first half line when playing against OKLAHOMA CITY since 1996.
--18 of 31 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Thunder are 6-14-1 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
--Thunder are 2-8 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Washington.
--Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Washington.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Thunder are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games.
--Thunder are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games overall.
--Thunder are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Wizards are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games.
--Wizards are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 5-1-1 in Wizards L7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
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#505 PHILADELPHIA @ #506 DETROIT
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, CSN Philadelphia, FSN Detroit - Line: Pistons -8.5, Total: 214.5) - The Detroit Pistons got plenty of time off this week thanks to a postponement in Atlanta on Wednesday and will finally get a chance to extend their winning streak to a whole two games when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. The Pistons snapped a four-game slide with a 103-87 win over Orlando on Tuesday to close out January with a 4-8 mark. The 76ers have dropped 11 of 14 after losing a 125-99 decision to the Hawks on Friday.
Detroit had allowed an average of 108.8 points during its four-game slide but turned in its best defensive performance of the month with a strong effort on the boards against the Magic. Philadelphia has its own issues on the defensive end and leads the NBA in average points allowed. The 76ers surrendered an average of 114.5 points in dropping each of the first two meetings with the Pistons this season, including a 115-100 trashing at Detroit on Dec. 1.
•ABOUT THE 76ERS (15-32 SU, 19-28-0 ATS): Philadelphia knocked off the Boston Celtics on Evan Turner’s last-second layup on Wednesday but could not carry that momentum to Friday and was smashed by the Hawks. The 95-94 triumph in Boston marked the lone time in the last nine games that the 76ers allowed less than 100 points and that sort of defensive effort has been a rarity for Philadelphia as it slumps toward the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The offense shows signs of something the team can build around but Turner, who leads the team in scoring at 18.2 points, struggles to consistently produce and posted only six points against the Hawks.
•ABOUT THE PISTONS (18-27 SU, 18-26-1 ATS): Andre Drummond posted 13 points and 17 rebounds in the win over the Magic to bounce back after a poor performance in the previous contest. “Everybody is entitled to have an off-night,” Drummond told reporters. “I had to come out and play with a lot more energy (against Orlando) than I had the night before.” Drummond had one of his best games against the Philadelphia front line, posting a career-high 31 points to go along with 19 rebounds and six steals in the last meeting against the 76ers. Drummond leads the Eastern Conference and ranks second in the NBA with 33 double-doubles.
•PREGAME NOTES: Detroit has taken five of the last six in the series, including three in a row at home.... Philadelphia G Michael Carter-Williams is struggling to 34.5 percent shooting in the last four games.... Pistons G Brandon Jennings is averaging 26 points in four games since being held scoreless on Jan. 20.... The Sixers are 12-2 Under versus poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.... The Pistons are 3-19 against the spread versus teams who average 9 or more steals/game on the season over the last three seasons.
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, DETROIT covered the spread 587 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the spread 413 times. *EDGE against the spread =DETROIT. In 1000 simulated games, DETROIT won the game straight up 763 times, while PHILADELPHIA won 216 times. In 1000 simulated games, 724 games went under the total, while 249 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, DETROIT covered the first half line 517 times, while PHILADELPHIA covered the first half line 444 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 682 games went under first half total, while 288 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--DETROIT is 38-38 against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--DETROIT is 48-33 straight up against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--41 of 79 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--DETROIT is 45-35 versus the first half line when playing against PHILADELPHIA since 1996.
--45 of 79 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--76ers are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
--76ers are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Detroit.
--Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
--Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Detroit.
--Favorite is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
--76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Under is 6-0 in 76ers last 6 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Pistons are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Over is 7-1 in Pistons last 8 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 9-2 in Pistons last 11 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#507 MINNESOTA @ #508 ATLANTA
(TV: 7:30 PM EST, FSN North (Minnesota), SportSouth (Atlanta) - Line: Timberwolves -1, Total: 208.5) - The Atlanta Hawks will try to maintain their home dominance of the Minnesota Timberwolves when the two teams tangle Saturday night. Atlanta has won 10 straight meetings with Minnesota at home and 12 of the last 13 overall. Due to a cancellation earlier in the week after a winter storm paralyzed Atlanta roads, the Hawks have not played at home in over a week but have loads of momentum coming back to Philips Arena after a 125-99 win at Philadelphia on Friday.
The Timberwolves had won five of six to vault above .500 for the first time in over two months but fell right back to the even mark with a 94-90 loss at home to Memphis on Friday. Kevin Love scored 28 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in the setback while his fellow starters went 14-for-35 from the floor and failed to make a 3-pointer in four attempts. One of the top offenses in the league, Minnesota has been held to 95 points or fewer in three straight games.
•ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (23-23 SU, 25-21-0 ATS): The fact that Love received little support Friday night is notable, especially considering the fact that the All-Star forward was lugging himself around the floor early on with a sore left ankle. Love shook off the ailment to personally outscore the Grizzlies in the third quarter by an 18-14 margin, but could use a helping hand with fellow big man Nikola Pekovic out indefinitely with a case of bursitis. Kevin Martin, the team's second-leading scorer, is averaging 13.3 points - roughly six below his season average - on 38.6 percent shooting over his last three games while fourth-leading scorer Corey Brewer has produced a total of nine points on 3-of-11 shooting in his last two contests.
•ABOUT THE HAWKS (24-21 SU, 25-20-0 ATS): Point guard Jeff Teague returned Friday from a two-game layoff due to an ankle injury and showed immediately what he means to the Atlanta offense. Teague was just 3-for-10 from the floor but dished out eight assists against only one turnover in 24 minutes, the type of ratio that has been the Hawks' calling card this season. They entered Friday leading the Eastern Conference with a 1.73 assist-to-turnover ratio and recorded 36 assists - compared to 18 giveaways - in the rout of Philadelphia.
•PREGAME NOTES: Hawks F Mike Scott has scored in double digits in 10 straight games despite playing no more than 28 minutes in that span.... Timberwolves C Ronny Turiaf is averaging nine rebounds and 5.5 points in two starts in place of Pekovic.... Both teams entered Friday ranked in the top five in the NBA in assists, steals and foul shooting.... The Hawks are 8-20 against the spread in home games versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts over the last two seasons.... The Timberwolves are 40-24 Over in road games versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3-point shots/game on the season over the last three seasons.
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 547 times, while MINNESOTA covered the spread 426 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA won the game straight up 518 times, while MINNESOTA won 453 times. In 1000 simulated games, 569 games went under the total, while 431 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, ATLANTA covered the first half line 530 times, while MINNESOTA covered the first half line 470 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 543 games went under first half total, while 419 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--ATLANTA is 15-15 against the spread versus MINNESOTA since 1996.
--ATLANTA is 18-13 straight up against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--17 of 30 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--ATLANTA is 16-14 versus the first half line when playing against MINNESOTA since 1996.
--17 of 30 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Timberwolves are 3-0-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings.
--Timberwolves are 4-0-2 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Atlanta.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
--Underdog is 10-4-2 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
--Road team is 8-1-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall.
--Timberwolves are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 5-1-1 in Timberwolves L7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Hawks are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 6-1 in Hawks last 7 overall.
--Over is 6-0 in Hawks last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#509 CLEVELAND @ #510 HOUSTON
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, FSN Ohio (Cleveland), CSN Houston (Houston) - Line: Rockets -12, Total: 206.5) - The Houston Rockets look to take another step toward the top of the Southwest Division when they host the stumbling Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday night. The Rockets have won three straight - including one over division leader San Antonio - to trim its deficit in the Southwest to just three games, the smallest it has been in over a month. Houston has won 10 of its last 14 overall, including a 117-115 win at Dallas on Wednesday in its second straight game without injured All-Star James Harden, who is day-to-day with a bruised thumb.
Cleveland is heading in the other direction, losing five of its last six and perhaps bottoming out in a 31-point loss at New York on Thursday that came amid rumors that All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving wants out. Irving, who insisted he is happy in Cleveland, led the Cavaliers with 24 points while Dion Waiters added 21 in the setback. Cleveland played its second straight game without center Anderson Varejao, who was said to be a game-time decision with a knee injury.
•ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (16-30 SU, 19-27-0 ATS): Varejao's absence robs Cleveland of its top rebounder and perhaps its best defender and energy guy - and all three were severely lacking against the Knicks, who shot 56.6 percent while toying with the Cavaliers. The lackluster performance came a day after general manager Chris Grant said that the team's recent lack of effort was not acceptable. Outside of Irving and Waiters, Cleveland shot 13-for-47 from the field.
•ABOUT THE ROCKETS (31-17 SU, 24-22-2 ATS): Forward Chandler Parsons indicated after the win over Dallas that Houston has a "more balanced attack" without Harden and it is hard to argue with the results. The Rockets shot 55.4 percent from the field and improved to 2-0 since Harden sat with a bruised thumb, all after losing two straight - while averaging 84 points - with the All-Star in the lineup. Jeremy Lin, who had slumped a bit earlier in the month, started in Harden's place against San Antonio and Dallas, averaging 18 points and 7.5 assists.
•PREGAME NOTES: Harden scored 20 points as Houston posted a 116-78 rout in the previous meeting last March.... Houston entered Friday ranked fifth in the NBA with a 47.1 shooting percentage, while Cleveland was 29th at 42.3.... Rockets All-Star C Dwight Howard made 9-of-11 free throws against Dallas after converting only 22-of-50 over his previous four games.... The Cavaliers are 3-15 against the spread versus teams who are called for 2+ less fouls/game than their opponents over the last two seasons.... Houston is 16-5 versus the spread versus good 3-point shooting teams - making more than 36% of their attempts - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.
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, CLEVELAND covered the spread 626 times, while HOUSTON covered the spread 352 times. *EDGE against the spread =CLEVELAND. In 1000 simulated games, HOUSTON won the game straight up 654 times, while CLEVELAND won 322 times. In 1000 simulated games, 652 games went under the total, while 348 games went over the total. *EDGE against the total =UNDER.
--In 1000 simulated games, CLEVELAND covered the first half line 615 times, while HOUSTON covered the first half line 344 times. *EDGE against first half line =CLEVELAND. In 1000 simulated games, 622 games went under first half total, while 342 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--HOUSTON is 19-11 against the spread versus CLEVELAND since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 22-10 straight up against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--17 of 28 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--HOUSTON is 19-8 versus the first half line when playing against CLEVELAND since 1996.
--20 of 28 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Cavaliers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 after allowing 100 points or more.
--Cavaliers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Under is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Rockets are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
--Under is 11-1 in Rockets last 12 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Over is 3-0-1 in Rockets L4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
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#511 CHICAGO @ #512 NEW ORLEANS
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, WGN (Chicago), FSN New Orleans - Line: Bulls -1, Total: 183.5) - The Chicago Bulls couldn't have asked for a much better start to their pivotal six-game road trip. Coming off an impressive 10-point victory over San Antonio, the Bulls look to continue their good road vibes Saturday night as they visit the Pelicans in New Orleans. Chicago has won three consecutive road contests, while the Pelicans saw their three-game winning streak come to an end with an 88-77 defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday.
The Bulls find themselves in the mix for homecourt advantage in the opening round of the NBA playoffs despite playing the majority of the season without All-Star point guard Derrick Rose. Some of the credit for Chicago's recent strong play belongs to a former Toronto Raptors third-stringer who has rediscovered his form in the Windy City. D.J. Augustin has been a revelation for the Bulls, averaging 13.7 points and six assists since joining the team.
•ABOUT THE BULLS (23-22 SU, 21-24-0 ATS): Not only is Chicago playing good basketball without its on-court leader, but it also received some potentially good news on the Rose front. A source told the Chicago Sun-Times that Rose is ahead in his recovery from surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, and may return to practice with the team before the end of the regular season. "I don't want to jump to any conclusions, just going step-by-step," head coach Tom Thibodeau said. "Just make sure he's completely healthy, that's all we're thinking about."
•ABOUT THE PELICANS (19-26 SU, 20-23-2 ATS): New Orleans forward Anthony Davis missed Wednesday's game against Minnesota with a dislocated finger and is having a sensational second NBA season, but it wasn't enough to earn him a spot on the Western Conference All-Star roster. The 20-year-old, who averages 20.4 points and 10.4 rebounds, was his usual diplomatic self when speaking to the media about the snub. "All-Star is going to be here for the next X amount of years," Davis said. "We're trying to focus on winning. We're not where we want to be record-wise. That's what I've got to focus on." Davis is a game-time decision to play against the Bulls.
•PREGAME NOTES: The teams have split the previous four meetings, with New Orleans prevailing 131-128 in overtime in their last encounter Dec. 2.... Davis had 15 points and 10 rebounds in his only career meeting with the Bulls.... Augustin is shooting 42.7 percent from the field and the 3-point line with Chicago after hitting at just 29.2 and 9.1 percent, respectively, with Toronto.... The Bulls are 22-7 against the spread in road games versus good ball handling teams - committing less than 14 turnovers/game over the last two seasons.... The Pelicans are 15-5 Under when playing against a team with a winning record 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, NEW ORLEANS covered the spread 593 times, while CHICAGO covered the spread 387 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, NEW ORLEANS won the game straight up 572 times, while CHICAGO won 407 times. In 1000 simulated games, 614 games went over the total, while 386 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW ORLEANS covered the first half line 577 times, while CHICAGO covered the first half line 423 times. *EDGE against first half line =NEW ORLEANS. In 1000 simulated games, 569 games went over first half total, while 431 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--CHICAGO is 33-21 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 29-26 straight up against NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--31 of 53 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHICAGO is 36-17 versus the first half line when playing against NEW ORLEANS since 1996.
--30 of 55 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bulls are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings in New Orleans.
--Over is 14-2-1 in the last 17 meetings in New Orleans.
--Road team is 8-0 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games.
--Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Saturday games.
--Under is 4-0 in Bulls last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Pelicans are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a S.U. loss.
--Pelicans are 1-6-1 ATS in their L8 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
--Under is 4-1-1 in Pelicans last 6 home games.
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#513 MILWAUKEE @ #514 MEMPHIS
(TV: 8:00 PM EST, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee), SportSouth (Memphis) - Line: Grizzlies -13, Total: 182) - The Memphis Grizzlies have turned their season around in the last five weeks and look to avoid a letdown when they host the struggling Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. The Grizzlies have won 10 of their last 11 contests – six of them by five points or less -- to climb within a half game of eighth place in the Western Conference after beating Minnesota 94-90 on Friday. Milwaukee has won only once in the last 15 games and lost its fifth straight 113-102 at Orlando on Friday.
Memphis could be without leading scorer Mike Conley, who suffered an ankle injury in Friday’s victory and will re-evaluated Saturday. Inside force Zach Randolph led the way with his 28th double-double of the season against Minnesota and will be depended on as the Grizzlies play for the fourth time in five nights. The Bucks own the league’s worst record and have lost eight in a row on the road.
•ABOUT THE BUCKS (8-38 SU, 15-31-0 ATS): Milwaukee was without two of its three top scorers in guard O.J. Mayo (illness) and forward John Henson (sprained wrist) against Orlando and turned the ball over 13 times in the first half. Leading scorer Brandon Knight (15.9) was held to 10 points Friday while veteran Caron Butler led the way with 20. Guard Gary Neal, playing for only the second time in 13 games, scored 13 at Orlando as the Bucks totaled 100 points for the second straight game after averaging 83.7 over the previous three.
•ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (25-20 SU, 22-22-1 ATS): Conley, who averages 18 points and 6.3 points, has been getting strong support from newly-acquired Courtney Lee in the backcourt. Lee is averaging 14.2 points over 12 games since coming over from Boston in a trade, including 16 on 5-of-7 shooting Friday. Randolph has contributed 17.3 points and 10.6 rebounds overall and got a big boost from the return of 7-1 center Marc Gasol, who has averaged 10.3 points in nine games since returning from an MCL injury.
•PREGAME NOTES: Memphis G Tony Allen, averaging 10.2 points, has missed 13 straight games due to a sprained left wrist and is listed day-to-day.... Bucks G/F Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 15 points Friday – his most since Dec. 27 – and was named to the NBA Rising Stars Challenge on All Star weekend.... Grizzlies F James Johnson had 15 points, matching a season high, in his team’s 82-77 victory over Milwaukee on Jan. 15.... The Bucks are 11-30 against the spread versus teams who are called for 21 or less fouls/game - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.... Memphis is 9-22 versus the spread in home games versus poor rebounding teams - outrebounded by opponents by 3+ per game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
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, MILWAUKEE covered the spread 523 times, while MEMPHIS covered the spread 451 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, MEMPHIS won the game straight up 785 times, while MILWAUKEE won 188 times. In 1000 simulated games, 657 games went over the total, while 323 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, MILWAUKEE covered the first half line 534 times, while MEMPHIS covered the first half line 466 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 609 games went over first half total, while 391 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--MEMPHIS is 17-15 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--MEMPHIS is 16-16 straight up against MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--17 of 32 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--MEMPHIS is 19-12 versus the first half line when playing against MILWAUKEE since 1996.
--21 of 31 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Bucks are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Memphis.
--Under is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings.
--Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Memphis.
--Underdog is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
--Road team is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 after allowing 100 points or more.
--Under is 4-0 in Bucks last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Grizzlies are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
--Under is 6-0 in Grizzlies last 6 games following a ATS win.
--Under is 4-0 in Grizzlies last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
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#515 MIAMI @ #516 NEW YORK
(TV: 8:30 PM EST, ESPN, Sun Sports (Miami), MSG (New York) - Line: Heat -4.5, Total: 201) - Miami is coming off a rare beatdown and New York is thriving with a four-game winning streak as the teams face off at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. Miami suffered a 112-95 loss to the Oklahoma City on Wednesday – the worst home loss since LeBron James joined the club – and is scuffling along with a 5-5 mark over the past three weeks that began with a loss in New York on Jan. 9. The Knicks have won four straight games, three of them by 26 or more points.
New York routed the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-86 on Thursday as Carmelo Anthony scored 29 points for his 10th consecutive 20-point outing. Anthony also became the 50th player in NBA history to top 19,000 career points and had a solid all-around showing (29 points, eight rebounds and five assists) in the recent win over the Heat. Miami is three games behind the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference race and coach Erik Spoelstra is aware the Heat can get better. “We have some work to do,” Spoelstra said. “We’re like everybody else in the league. Nobody is infallible. We have some things to improve on. We know the things we have to improve on. We’re not there yet.”
•ABOUT THE HEAT (32-13 SU, 19-26-0 ATS): Forward Chris Bosh is heading to his ninth All-Star Game while thriving as the third option to stars LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. “It’s still a big deal for me,” Bosh told reporters. “Every year, it’s a question mark for me to be honest with you. I have to play a different role and I have to play well in that role. And it’s changed every year that I’ve been here. I still find a way to kind of get it done. It’s a good feeling.” Bosh’s season average is 16.9 but he has topped 20 points in six of the last eight games.
•ABOUT THE KNICKS (19-27 SU, 20-26-0 ATS): Rookie guard Tim Hardaway Jr. scored a season-best 29 points in the win over the Cavaliers and tied a franchise rookie mark with six 3-pointers. Hardaway is averaging 21 points over the last three games while going 23-of-39 from the field, including 12-of-21 from 3-point range. “I knew that if I could shoot the ball very, very well at the next level, then I should be able to help the team out,” Hardaway said afterward. Hardaway is averaging 9.1 points and shooting 47 percent from the field.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Knicks have won four of the last five meetings.... New York G Iman Shumpert (shoulder) is questionable and missed the game against Cleveland.... Miami is just 7-12 when allowing 100 or more points.... The Knicks are 23-8 against the spread in home games versus teams who are called for 21 or less fouls/game - 2nd half of the season over the last three seasons.... The Heat are 11-2 versus the spread in road games when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last two seasons.
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 609 times, while MIAMI covered the spread 391 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK won the game straight up 487 times, while MIAMI won 486 times. In 1000 simulated games, 655 games went over the total, while 317 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, NEW YORK covered the first half line 593 times, while MIAMI covered the first half line 407 times. *EDGE against first half line =NEW YORK. In 1000 simulated games, 648 games went over first half total, while 352 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--NEW YORK is 51-41 against the spread versus MIAMI since 1996.
--MIAMI is 50-45 straight up against NEW YORK since 1996.
--51 of 89 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--NEW YORK is 46-46 versus the first half line when playing against MIAMI since 1996.
--60 of 93 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Heat are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
--Under is 12-4-1 in the last 17 meetings.
--Under is 8-0 in the last 8 meetings in New York.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-0 in Heat last 4 Saturday games.
--Over is 4-0 in Heat last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Under is 4-0 in Heat last 4 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.
--Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 after scoring 100 points or more.
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#517 SACRAMENTO @ #518 SAN ANTONIO
(TV: 8:30 PM EST, CSN California (Sacramento), KENS (San Antonio) - Line: Spurs -10.5, Total: 205.5) - The Sacramento Kings would love to get DeMarcus Cousins back from an ankle injury as they attempt to snap a six-game slide. The San Antonio Spurs, who host the Kings on Saturday, have no sympathy for anyone else’s injury concerns. The Spurs are enduring a season-long three-game losing streak while playing without Tiago Splitter (shoulder), Kawhi Leonard (hand), Danny Green (hand) and Manu Ginobili (hamstring).
Splitter is the closest of the four to a return but is unlikely to suit up on Saturday against a Kings frontcourt that is struggling without Cousins. The budding star was a notable exception from the Western Conference All-Star roster and Sacramento has been forced to go to a smaller lineup much of the time without the double-double machine on the floor in the last five games. San Antonio would love to make its losing streak a thing of the past and gain some momentum for an eight-game road trip that kicks off on Monday in New Orleans.
•ABOUT THE KINGS (15-31 SU, 20-24-2 ATS): Sacramento won’t put up as much of a fight defensively as the Bulls did but Jeffers and Parker will get a workout on the defensive end trying to chase down Rudy Gay and Isaiah Thomas. Those two combined for 54 points on Friday but no one else on the roster managed double figures in a 107-103 loss at Dallas. Aaron Gray started in Cousins’ spot at center but only scored four points in 23 minutes as Sacramento rotated Gray, Quincy Acy, Carl Landry and Derrick Williams to fill out the front line with Gay.
•ABOUT THE SPURS (33-13 SU, 22-24-0 ATS): San Antonio put up a good fight when Splitter and Green first went down but the losses of Leonard and Ginobili are more difficult to cover despite the team’s depth. The Spurs are giving heavy minutes to a rotation of guards surrounding Tony Parker and even broke recent signing Othyus Jeffers into the starting lineup against the Bulls on Wednesday due to the need for a wing defender with Leonard out. San Antonio is slipping offensively over the last three contests and had a pair of starters (Jeffers and Jeff Ayres) go scoreless in the 96-86 loss to Chicago.
•PREGAME NOTES: San Antonio has won seven straight in the series, including a 112-104 win at home on Dec. 29.... Gay went 10-of-16 from the field in each of the last two games after returning from a three-game absence.... Spurs F Tim Duncan has five double-doubles in the last six games.... The Kings are 36-16 Over versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts over the last two seasons.... San Antonio is 20-8 Under in home games versus poor pressure defensive teams - forcing less than 14 turnovers/game over the last two seasons.
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, SAN ANTONIO covered the spread 529 times, while SACRAMENTO covered the spread 471 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, SAN ANTONIO won the game straight up 780 times, while SACRAMENTO won 202 times. In 1000 simulated games, 668 games went over the total, while 332 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, SAN ANTONIO covered the first half line 483 times, while SACRAMENTO covered the first half line 476 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 598 games went over first half total, while 402 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--SACRAMENTO is 34-33 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 49-21 straight up against SACRAMENTO since 1996.
--35 of 66 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--SAN ANTONIO is 44-25 versus the first half line when playing against SACRAMENTO since 1996.
--34 of 68 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings.
--Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in San Antonio.
--Road team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-0-2 in Kings last 6 games playing on 0 days rest.
--Over is 3-0-1 in Kings last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Over is 7-1-1 in Kings last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
--Spurs are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games following a double-digit loss at home.
--Over is 4-0 in Spurs last 4 games playing on 2 days rest.
--Under is 5-0 in Spurs last 5 games following a ATS loss.
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#519 CHARLOTTE @ #520 PHOENIX
(TV: 9:00 PM EST, SportSouth (Charlotte), FSN Arizona (Phoenix) - Line: Suns -8.5, Total: 204.5) - Al Jefferson is on a tear and the Phoenix Suns will try to slow him down when the Charlotte Bobcats visit on Saturday. Jefferson matched his career high with 40 points and also collected 18 rebounds as Charlotte improved to 2-0 on a four-game road trip with a solid 110-100 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Jefferson has scored 20 or more points in 11 consecutive games, surpassing Jason Richardson’s franchise mark from the 2007-08 campaign.
Phoenix has won four straight games and six of the last seven – with two of the victories coming against the Indiana Pacers. The Suns haven’t missed a beat with guard Eric Bledsoe (knee) sidelined as point guard Goran Dragic continues to stand out. Dragic is averaging 27.3 points on 29-of-47 shooting over the past three games to raise his career-best average to 19.9. The Suns are 10 games above .500 and have the sixth-best mark in the Western Conference.
•ABOUT THE BOBCATS (20-27 SU, 26-20-2 ATS): Charlotte has been without guard Kemba Walker (ankle) for the past six games and Jefferson has stepped up to be an even bigger focal point of the offense. The veteran center is averaging 35.7 points over the last three games – scoring at least 32 points in each outing – and scored 16 final-quarter points in the win over the Lakers. “I have those moments,” Jefferson said afterward. “They kept running plays for me and I kept scoring.” Jefferson is averaging 19.9 points and 10.7 rebounds.
•ABOUT THE SUNS (28-18 SU, 31-14-1 ATS): Sharpshooter Gerald Green has played a big role in Phoenix’s success after being acquired from the Indiana Pacers in the offseason. The journeyman is averaging a career-best 14.1 points and has already set a career high with 110 3-pointers. Green is averaging 23 points over the past three games, which included a season-best 30 points against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. “For us, Gerald’s always the key,” Phoenix coach Jeff Hornacek told reporters. “When he plays well and in control, we seem to have a pretty good game.”
•PREGAME NOTES: The Suns have won the last four meetings, including a 98-91 victory in Charlotte on Nov. 22.... Bobcats PG Ramon Sessions had a season-best 13 assists against the Lakers and is averaging 10.3 over the past three games.... Phoenix backup F Markieff Morris has scored in double digits in nine straight games and is averaging 18.2 points during the stretch.... The Bobcats are 15-31 against the spread versus poor passing teams, averaging less than 20 assists/game over the last three seasons.... The Suns are 4-13 versus the spread in home games when playing eight or more games in 14 days over the last two seasons.
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 508 times, while CHARLOTTE covered the spread 492 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, PHOENIX won the game straight up 717 times, while CHARLOTTE won 266 times. In 1000 simulated games, 538 games went under the total, while 462 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, CHARLOTTE covered the first half line 497 times, while PHOENIX covered the first half line 471 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 546 games went under first half total, while 419 games went over first half total. *EDGE against first half total =UNDER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--PHOENIX is 9-8 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--PHOENIX is 13-5 straight up against CHARLOTTE since 1996.
--12 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--CHARLOTTE is 10-8 versus the first half line when playing against PHOENIX since 1996.
--12 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
--Over is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in Phoenix.
--Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Over is 4-1 in Bobcats last 5 Saturday games.
--Over is 6-1 in Bobcats last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 4-0 in Bobcats last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Over is 9-1-1 in Suns last 11 Saturday games.
--Over is 6-1 in Suns last 7 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record.
--Over is 16-4-1 in Suns last 21 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
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#521 TORONTO @ #522 PORTLAND
(TV: 10:00 PM EST, TSN (Toronto), CSN Northwest (Portland) - Line: Trail Blazers -7, Total: 204.5) - The Portland Trail Blazers are struggling through a tough stretch and will certainly face a challenge when they host the soaring Toronto Raptors on Saturday. Portland has lost four of its last six games and the last two in that stretch qualify as the team’s worst back-to-back showings of the campaign. Toronto began a five-game road trip on Friday by winning in Denver for the first time in 10-plus years and has won five of its last six outings.
The Raptors are a season-best four games above. 500 and have opened up a four-game lead over the Brooklyn Nets in the Atlantic Division. All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan returned after a two-game absence due to an ankle injury and scored 19 points. Portland has averaged just 84.5 points in consecutive defeats by an average of 16 points and was particularly dreadful in Tuesday’s 98-81 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge continues to excel and has posted double-doubles in nine of the last 10 games.
•ABOUT THE RAPTORS (25-21 SU, 28-18-0 ATS): Second-year forward Terrence Ross opened eyes with a 51-point performance against the Los Angeles Clippers on Jan. 25 and then made just 7-of-22 shots over the ensuing two games. He was back on his game against the Nuggets, going 7-of-10 from the field while scoring 18 points. Ross has scored in double digits in five consecutive games after not having a streak longer than three prior to the best scoring stretch of his short career. The 6-6 Ross is averaging 10.3 points after posting a 6.4 average as a rookie.
•ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (33-13 SU, 25-21-0 ATS): Portland’s last two performances have been woeful offensively, an oddity for one of the league’s most-explosive teams. The Trail Blazers shot a season-worst 33.7 percent in Sunday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors and checked in at just 34.5 percent against Memphis. “We’re in a rough patch right now,” guard Damian Lillard said after the loss to the Grizzlies. “We got off to a slow start. We’re not shooting the ball very well and we’ve got to defend better. We’ve played so well, we were due for a rough patch and a little bit of adversity.”
•PREGAME NOTES: Portland has won nine of the past 10 meetings, including a 118-110 overtime win in Toronto on Nov. 17.... Raptors F Patrick Patterson (broken nose) returned after a one-game absence and scored nine points in 24 minutes against Denver while sporting a mask.... Aldridge ranks second in the NBA with 22 games of at least 20 points and 10 rebounds, trailing only Minnesota’s Kevin Love (28).... The Raptors are 14-4 against the spread versus good free throw shooting teams - making more than 76% of their attempts this season.... Portland is 18-8 Over versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game 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, TORONTO covered the spread 546 times, while PORTLAND covered the spread 436 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, PORTLAND won the game straight up 620 times, while TORONTO won 362 times. In 1000 simulated games, 639 games went over the total, while 361 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In 1000 simulated games, TORONTO covered the first half line 520 times, while PORTLAND covered the first half line 480 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 566 games went over first half total, while 396 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--TORONTO is 17-15 against the spread versus PORTLAND since 1996.
--PORTLAND is 22-10 straight up against TORONTO since 1996.
--16 of 30 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--PORTLAND is 16-14 versus the first half line when playing against TORONTO since 1996.
--17 of 29 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Raptors are 1-8 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
--Raptors are 0-5 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Portland.
--Favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Raptors are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 Saturday games.
--Raptors are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Raptors are 5-1 ATS L6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
--Under is 5-0-1 in Trail Blazers last 6 games following a ATS loss.
--Under is 4-0 in Trail Blazers last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Trail Blazers last 4 when their opponent scores 100 points or more.
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#523 UTAH @ #524 LA CLIPPERS
(TV: 10:30 PM EST, ROOT Sports (Utah), Prime Ticket (Los Angeles) - Line: Clippers -13, Total: 205.5) - The Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz are both coming off a loss to the Golden State Warriors and each will try to avoid that turning into a lengthy slide when the Clippers host the Jazz on Saturday. The road-weary Clippers were trounced by the Warriors on Thursday but finally got a day off and will settle into their own building with Utah after eight of nine on the road. The Jazz ended a four-game homestand with a 2-2 mark with Friday’s 95-90 loss.
The travel finally appeared to catch up with Los Angeles, which went out on the road for seven games, returned for one and headed right out to play the second night of a back-to-back at Golden State on Thursday. “The energy was bad,” Blake Griffin told reporters of the 111-92 loss. “I was talking to some guys after the game, didn’t really feel like I ever had that wind or that second level. Everybody has to play games like this, coming off a seven-game road trip, go home, fly here, back-to-back.” Utah will be the team on a back-to-back Saturday and suffered a 98-90 loss the last time it visited the Clippers on Dec. 28.
•ABOUT THE JAZZ (16-30 SU, 21-22-3 ATS): Utah was trying to secure its first three-game winning streak of the season but squandered a nine-point lead in the fourth quarter on Friday. Gordon Hayward committed eight turnovers in the loss and Trey Burke struggled to four points on 2-of-10 shooting, failing to make up in the backcourt what the team lost in the frontcourt with Derrick Favors (hip) sitting out the game. Favors has been battling the hip issue since Jan. 18 and sat out two of the last four games while posting double-doubles in the other two contests - both wins.
•ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (33-16 SU, 28-21-0 ATS): Griffin scored 40 points against the Jazz in the Dec. 28 meeting and continues to excel without Chris Paul (shoulder) available. The All-Star forward put up 26.4 points on 57.8 percent shooting in the last five games and is taking his leadership duties seriously. “I need to step up,” Griffin said. “Chris is a big part of our team and when he’s gone it obviously leaves a big gap. We’re just trying to fill that, not trying to replace him or do what he does, but do it my own way.” Griffin and company will finally get a chance to settle back in at home with a stretch of six of seven at home.
•PREGAME NOTES: The Clippers have taken seven straight in the series, and have won the last three by an average of 10.7 points.... Jazz F Marvin Williams (heel) sat out Friday and is day-to-day.... Los Angeles C DeAndre Jordan has hauled in double-digit rebounds in 26 straight games... The Jazz are 7-0 Under off a cover where the team lost the game straight up as an underdog this season.... The Clippers are 12-3 Under versus terrible teams - outscored by their opponents by 6+ points/game over the last two seasons.
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 499 times, while UTAH covered the spread 472 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, LA CLIPPERS won the game straight up 788 times, while UTAH won 196 times. In 1000 simulated games, 535 games went under the total, while 465 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In 1000 simulated games, UTAH covered the first half line 541 times, while LA CLIPPERS covered the first half line 459 times. *No EDGE. In 1000 simulated games, 530 games went under first half total, while 470 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
--UTAH is 38-29 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--UTAH is 48-20 straight up against LA CLIPPERS since 1996.
--37 of 68 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1996.
--LA CLIPPERS is 36-31 versus the first half line when playing against UTAH since 1996.
--38 of 68 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1996.
--Jazz are 19-7 ATS in the last 26 meetings.
--Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.
--Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in Los Angeles.
--Favorite is 13-6 ATS in the last 19 meetings.
--Home team is 22-8 ATS in the last 30 meetings.
•RECENT TRENDS
--Jazz are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
--Jazz are 2-0-2 ATS in their last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Under is 3-0-1 in Jazz last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more.
--Clippers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS loss.
--Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. loss.
--Clippers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points.
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