Thursday 1/7/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Celtics (19-16) at Bulls (21-12)

Date: January 07, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

The Chicago Bulls are enjoying their best stretch of the season with Jimmy Butler leading the way.

The Boston Celtics are enduring some woes, but their defense and play on the road make them a dangerous opponent.

The Bulls look to extend their season-high winning streak to six Thursday night when they meet a Celtics' club that owns the Eastern Conference's best road record.

It's well documented by now that Butler was critical of coach Fred Hoiberg after a blowout loss at New York on Dec. 19. The superstar has backed up his strong words with strong play, averaging 31.3 points in the last four games of this win streak.

Chicago (21-12) is averaging 109.2 points in the last five games.

"Everybody's doing their job, trying to win their matchup," Butler said. "When you buy into that team thing, you win five games in a row."

Boston (19-16) comes to town after its third loss in four games, falling 99-94 to Detroit on Wednesday. The Celtics led by 13 in the third quarter before collapsing down the stretch, getting outscored 33-19 in the fourth.

'We didn't bring it in the second half,' said Jae Crowder, a college teammate of Butler's at Marquette.

The Celtics have brought it on the road, posting a 10-6 mark with three straight wins and may thrive being away from Beantown. They are also 5-2 in the second game of back-to-backs for the East's best mark.

Boston can also play defense, allowing 97.9 points per 100 possessions for the league's second-best mark to San Antonio.

Guard Avery Bradley is expected to miss a third straight game with a left hip contusion. Coach Brad Stevens indicated that David Lee or Tyler Zeller will see action in this contest after neither played Wednesday.

Isaiah Thomas, reportedly playing with a sprained left thumb, had 22 points and 10 assists.

Derrick Rose returned for the Bulls in Tuesday's 117-106 home win over Milwaukee after missing three games with a sore right hamstring. He showed no effects of the injury and took the ball to the basket all night, finishing with 16 points.

'I thought Derrick was good. He was a little rusty out of the gate. Once he started attacking the basket, I really liked the way he was playing,' Hoiberg said.

Much has been made of the transition from defensive-minded former coach Tom Thibodeau to the offensive-minded Hoiberg possibly hurting Chicago on that end of the court. The Bulls, though, lead the NBA in defensive field-goal percentage at 41.8.

The Celtics survived Butler's 36-point night in a 105-100 home victory over the Bulls on Dec. 9. Thomas scored 20 as one of eight Celtics to score in double digits.

Lee had 12 points and six rebounds in 18 minutes, making him a good choice to see action Thursday.

Flashy Chicago native Evan Turner has started the last two games in place of Bradley, totaling 29 points and 17 boards. Turner scored 29 in Boston's last trip to the United Center, a 109-104 overtime defeat Jan. 3, 2015.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Jazz (15-19) at Rockets (17-19)

Date: January 07, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

James Harden and the Houston Rockets are hoping things are pointing up. A home-heavy stretch is providing them with that opportunity.

After Harden shook off some fan misconduct while dominating the Utah Jazz, he shouldn't have any such obstacles as the Rockets try to beat them again Thursday night.

Harden is second in the NBA with 28.1 points per game, and Houston (17-19) is starting to take advantage of his production.

He practically did it himself Monday, scoring 21 of his 30 points in the final 15:57 as the Rockets rallied from a 15-point deficit to beat Utah 93-91 and stop their four-game slide.

Harden also overcame a bizarre incident during the comeback, pointing out a fan who was shining a laser at him while he tried to take a free throw. The unidentified fan was ejected and reportedly banned for one year by the league.

The Rockets are now trying to avoid a third straight loss at home following a seven-game winning streak there.

They're going to have plenty of chances to re-establish that success at Toyota Center, where they'll play seven of the next 10 games.

"It's a great opportunity for us to take care of home-court advantage," Harden said. "We gotta focus on things we can control; our defensive togetherness, rebounding the basketball and limiting the turnovers."

Houston has won nine of the last 11 meetings with the Jazz (15-19), sweeping all five at home by an average of 18.8 points.

Harden had a triple-double in the most recent home matchup, scoring a game-high 16 points with 11 rebounds and 10 assists as the Rockets coasted to a 117-91 win April 15.

The Jazz shot 37.6 percent from the field - 5 of 27 from beyond the arc - in that meeting. However, they're more concerned with shoring things up defensively after following Monday's collapse with a 123-98 loss at San Antonio on Wednesday.

Not only was it the most points Utah has allowed all season, but it permitted the Spurs to shoot a staggering 60.5 percent - the highest by an opponent since Quin Snyder took over last season.

"Collectively we're going to play for 48 minutes, regardless of what the scoreboard says," guard Trey Burke said. "We leave it all out there on the court. We've just got to continue to play that way whether we're getting beat by 20 or if we're up by 20. We have to have that mindset and focus to continue to play with a lot of energy."

It doesn't help the Jazz are missing Dante Exum (ACL tear), Rudy Gobert (MCL sprain), Alec Burks (broken leg) and Derrick Favors (back spasms) through injuries.

Burke, though, has provided some punch off the bench, scoring 21 points Wednesday. He's had three 20-point games while averaging 18.0 in his last five - nearly six points higher than his season mark.

Burke, however, had just 10 points on 3-of-11 shooting against the Rockets.

Rodney Hood is looking for a bounce-back effort. The second-year guard was held to nine points at San Antonio after totaling 55 over the previous two games, including 23 against the Rockets while hitting 5 of 6 3s.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Lakers (8-28) at Kings (14-21)

Date: January 07, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

The Los Angeles Lakers are expecting Kobe Bryant back for his last game in Sacramento.

Whether the Kings will have Rajon Rondo will determine whether they will be successful at pushing the tempo as they have been in a four-game win streak in this series.

DeMarcus Cousins has simply been sensational as well for Sacramento heading into Thursday night's opener of a three-game homestand.

Bryant has missed the last three games with a sore right shoulder, though he is traveling to the state capital with the intention to play one final time there. He was a signature part of the rivalry between these teams early in his career, most notably when he and Shaquille O'Neal combined for 65 points in a Game 7 overtime victory at Sacramento in the 2002 Western Conference finals en route to the third of three straight titles for the Lakers.

"It'll be interesting tomorrow," coach Byron Scott said. "It's the last time he'll be in Sacramento so obviously I think the fans will be very respectful."

Bryant, the NBA's worst shooter overall (34.1 percent) and on 3-pointers (25.9), is officially questionable.

"I'm kind of anxious to get him back out there, and it seems like he's anxious as well," Scott said. "How much and how long will be determined."

More vital to the outcome of this game will be whether Rondo, the NBA's leader with 11.6 assists per game, will be on the floor. He sat out Tuesday's 117-116 double overtime loss at Dallas due to back spasms.

Sacramento (14-21) is one of the NBA's leaders in fast-break points with an average of 18.0. The Kings finished with a season-high 33 fast-break points in a 132-114 rout of Los Angeles on Oct. 30, and are averaging 25.0 in this four-game win streak in the series.

"It's going to be probably the number one thing tomorrow because they do run," Scott said. "They run just as well as anybody right now, they really get up and down the floor."

Scott will also have to worry about slowing down Cousins, who is averaging 33.3 points and 15.0 rebounds in his last three games. He had 35 and 17 on Tuesday as the Kings narrowly missed their third three-game win streak.

Sacramento allowed the game's final eight points, including a 3-pointer at the buzzer by Deron Williams.

"The only thing I can complain about is the last outcome of the game," coach George Karl said.

Cousins now has 4,019 rebounds for the most in the franchise's history in its Sacramento era. He passed Chris Webber's mark of 4,006.

"Big fan of C-Webb and it's an incredible honor," Cousins said.

While the Kings' point guard situation is murky, it looks like the Lakers (8-28) will get rookie point guard D'Angelo Russell back after he missed Tuesday's 109-88 defeat to Golden State with a sore throat. It marked the first game he missed.

"I was lacking energy a little bit," Russell said. "That's the only reason. I can play with a sore throat, but I didn't really have the energy. I felt really slow."

Los Angeles had its season-high three-game win streak snapped. Lou Williams missed all seven shots from the floor and scored 10 at the line after totaling 54 points in his previous two games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Odds: Thursday, January 7 2015 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

The Los Angeles Lakers chose Ohio State freshman guard D'Angelo Russell with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 draft. He has been pretty solid, averaging 11.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists. He's no Kristaps Porzingis, but that's another story. Coach Byron Scott has been bringing him Russell the bench. But the most impressive rookie on the Lakers of late has been Larry Nance Jr., the son of the former All-Star Dunk Contest winner. L.A. might have gotten a steal in Nance Jr. Scott said he should have been a lottery pick -- Nance went No. 27 overall -- and that's starting to look accurate. Nance is averaging 10.6 points and 9.6 rebounds in his past five games and appears to have passed 2014 No. 7 overall pick Julius Randle on the depth chart. Nance is starting now and Randle is also coming off the bench.

Hawks at 76ers (+9, 207)

Break up Philly! Ish Smith for (team) MVP! The 76ers are off a 109-99 home win over Minnesota on Monday. That's the Sixers' third win in six games since acquiring the journeyman Smith from New Orleans on Christmas Eve for basically nothing. Smith had 21 points and 11 assists in the win over the Wolves and is averaging 13.4 points and 7.6 assists in the six games in Philly, leading the club in assists in five of those. The Sixers also signed veteran forward Elton Brand on Monday. That won't have any impact on the team on the court, but Brand is basically being hired as a mentor/babysitter for rookie Jahlil Okafor as well as fellow young big men Nerlens Noel and Joel Embiid. And that's smart. Brand is a pro's pro all the way. Atlanta was swept in the second of a home-and-home vs. the Knicks on Tuesday, 107-101. Dennis Schroder returned to the rotation for Atlanta after two straight DNP-CD and had seven points and eight assists. The Hawks defeated the visiting Sixers 127-106 on Dec. 16. Paul Millsap led Atlanta with 21 points. The Hawks never trailed. Isaiah Canaan had a season-high 24 points for Philly and Okafor added 19. Noel missed the game but is back now.

Key trends: Atlanta is 7-3 against the spread in its past 10 after a loss. The "over/under" is 9-1 in the Hawks' past 10. The under is 5-1 in the past six meetings.

Early lean: 76ers and under.

Celtics at Bulls (-4.5, 203.5)

This is the first game of the TNT doubleheader and will have live betting at sportsbooks. Boston hosted Detroit on Wednesday. Chicago won a season-high fifth straight Tuesday, 117-106 over Milwaukee. Jimmy Butler continued his hot streak with 32 points as the Bulls led wire-to-wire. Derrick Rose had an MRI on Monday, but it came back clear and he did play after missing the previous three games. Rose was quite aggressive in getting to the basket for once and had 16 points. The Celtics beat the visiting Bulls 105-100 on Dec. 9. Isaiah Thomas scored nine of his 20 points in the final three minutes. Boston had eight players in double figures. Butler had 36 points for Chicago and Pau Gasol 16 points and 15 boards. Rose had 12 points. Boston was without Marcus Smart, who is back now.

Key trends: The Bulls have covered seven of the past 11 meetings in Chicago. The over is 5-0 in the past five.

Early lean: Bulls and over.

Jazz at Rockets (-9, 197)

Utah was in San Antonio on Wednesday against without starting forward Derrick Favors. He's dealing with back spasms and won't play here, either. Houston has been off since ending a season-high four-game losing streak with a 93-91 win over these Jazz in Salt Lake City on Monday. James Harden had 30 points, seven assists and five rebounds. His layup with 1:55 remaining gave the Rockets an 89-87 lead they never relinquished. Dwight Howard had 16 points and 13 rebounds for Houston in a season-high 41 minutes. He has four straight double-doubles. Ty Lawson did not dress (left ankle sprain), and Donatas Montiejunas (sore back) and Marcus Thornton (personal reasons) were not with the team. While Lawson and Thornton could play here, Montiejunas is going to be out a while. He had missed eight months following surgery to repair a herniated disk and debuted on Dec. 5. He won't play again until he's pain-free.

Key trends: The home team is 4-0 ATS in the past four meetings. The under is 13-6 in the past 10.

Early lean: The Rockets have won nine of the past 11 in the series and five straight at home. They shouldn't have much trouble extending that to six.

Lakers at Kings (TBA)

Your TNT nightcap. Not exactly the most exciting national TV game of the season. Los Angeles' season-best three-game winning streak ended in a 109-88 home loss to Golden State on Tuesday. Russell sat out with a sore throat (really?) and Kobe Bryant missed a third in a row with a sore right shoulder. Nance had nine points and seven rebounds in 20 minutes. Randle was just 1-for-8 also in 20 minutes. Sacramento's two-game winning streak ended in tough fashion on Tuesday in Dallas, 117-116 in double OT on Deron Williams' 3-point buzzer-beater. DeMarcus Cousins had 35 points, including the game-tying layup at the end of regulation. Rajon Rondo sat with back spasms, thus avoiding boos raining down on him in his return to Dallas. Rondo in fact snuck to the bench during Dallas introductions so the crowd wouldn't see him. That's weak. The Kings won the final three vs. L.A. last season and the first this, 132-114 at home on Oct. 30. Rondo and Cousins each scored a team-high 21 points as the Kings destroyed the Lakers in the paint, scoring a Sacramento-era high 80 points there. Sacramento opened on a 16-4 run and never looked back. Kobe had 13 points.

Key trends: The Kings have covered five straight meetings. The over is 8-3 in the Lakers' past 11 following a double-digit loss.

Early lean: Russell expects to play but Kobe is questionable. Rondo is 50-50. Kings should take care of business here. Go over regardless.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Hot teams
-- 76ers split their last six games (4-2 vs spread).
-- Chicago won its last five games (3-1 last four HF).
-- Lakers won three of their last four games (3-1 last four AU).

Cold teams
-- Hawks lost three of last four games (1-4 last five AF).
-- Celtics lost three of last four games (6-2AU).
-- Jazz are 3-5 in their last eight games (1-4 last five AU). Houston lost four of its last five games (4-10HF).
-- Sacramento lost four of its last six games (5-5HF).

Series records
-- 76ers lost eight of last nine games with Atlanta.
-- Bulls won six of last eight games with Boston.
-- Rockets won eight of last ten games with Utah.
-- Lakers lost five of their last six games with Sacramento.

Totals
-- Nine of last ten Atlanta games went over total.
-- Over is 8-2 in last ten Chicago games, 1-6 in last seven Boston tilts.
-- Four of last five Houston games went over total.
-- Over is 4-0-1 in last five Sacramento games.

Back/backs
-- Celtics are 3-1 vs spread on road if they played night before.
-- Utah is 4-2 vs spread if it played the night before.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cardinals (12-2) at Wolfpack (10-4)

Date: January 07, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Louisville coach Rick Pitino has great respect for Anthony 'Cat' Barber, even though the ACC's leading scorer struggled against his club's defense last season.

Pitino's 16th-ranked Cardinals eliminated Barber and North Carolina State from last year's NCAA Tournament heading into Thursday night's matchup in Raleigh.

Barber leads the conference in scoring with 22.9 points per game, and his 137 foul shots rank among the nation's leaders. Pitino called him "one of the top two or three guards" in the nation.

"I think Cat Barber is one of the premier guards in the nation and I say that not to hype (him) up because we're playing him," Pitino said.

Barber should pose a bigger challenge than he did last season when he averaged 12.1 points.

He struggled with his shooting in both 2014-15 meetings with Louisville (12-2, 1-0), scoring 21 while making 5 of 15 shots in an upset 74-65 victory Feb. 24. The Cardinals held him to eight on 3-of-14 shooting in their 75-65 win in the Sweet 16 on March 27.

One issue for Barber is how he is being forced to shoulder the scoring load with North Carolina State (10-4, 0-1) losing top scorers Trevor Lacey and Ralston Turner from last season's club. Barber is averaging 38.9 minutes to rank second in the country.

'I feel good right now,' Barber said. 'I just get my rest, get treatment to keep my legs fresh. But I'm kind of used to it now going into ACC play throughout the year, so I feel pretty good.'

The Wolfpack need someone other than Barber to step up since West Virginia transfer Terry Henderson is still weeks away from returning following surgery for an opening-night ankle injury.

Sophomore swingman Caleb Martin got off to a strong start as a No. 2 scorer, but he's averaged 6.2 points and shot 22 percent over the past six games. His twin, Cody, is essentially the backup point guard.

Freshman Maverick Rowan (12.6 points) has had some good moments but has been up and down, while sophomore Abdul-Malik Abu (10.8 points) is leading a frontcourt that doesn't provide much scoring.

The Wolfpack seek to avoid their first 0-2 ACC start since 2009-10. They fell 73-68 in overtime at Virginia Tech on Saturday despite Barber's 21 points.

Louisville won 65-57 over Wake Forest on Sunday in its conference opener. Freshman Donovan Mitchell scored 18 in his first start and Chinanu Onuaku added 12 and 15 rebounds.

The Cardinals' top two scorers are transfers. Damion Lee averages 17.6 points after coming over from Drexel, and Trey Lewis is at 14.3 after previously playing for Penn State and Cleveland State.

Louisville went 7-3 on the road last season and is 0-2 in this one.

"We were road warriors the past three or four years, and I'm not sure that this team is a road warrior team, we're so new," Pitino said. "That's why I gave the goal I gave, to go undefeated at home and take what you can get on the road and hope for the best."

The Cardinals lead the nation in scoring margin at plus-26.3.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Bearcats (11-4) at Mustangs (13-0)

Date: January 07, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Having already overcome its share of adversity, SMU is having to deal with more after the player at the center of its NCAA infractions left the program.

Without fourth-leading scorer Keith Frazier, the 15th-ranked Mustangs hope to stay focused as they try to continue the best start in school history Thursday night against a Cincinnati team that was the last visitor to win at Moody Coliseum.

SMU rolled to nine straight victories by an average of 24.5 points while coach Larry Brown served an NCAA-imposed suspension for academic fraud and unethical conduct.

In Brown's first home game, the Mustangs remained one of three unbeaten Division I teams despite only using seven players in a 72-58 home win over South Florida on Saturday.

Frazier, the team's second-highest scoring guard at 11.9 per game, did not play after he told Brown he was leaving the team to deal with a personal issue. It has since been reported that the junior guard is stepping away because he's feeling blamed for the infractions that led to the team's postseason ineligibility this season.

The NCAA ruled that a secretary had done Frazier's coursework in the summer of 2013, and Brown was suspended for withholding information and lying when first questioned.

"We're going to support him,' Brown said after Saturday's victory.

Short-handed SMU (13-0, 2-0 American Athletic Conference) looks to regroup offensively as it tries to extend its longest winning streak since a 20-game run in 1955-56. Reigning AAC Player of the Year Nic Moore had 13 points on 3-of-11 shooting Saturday after averaging 20.5 and hitting 11 of 25 from 3-point range in his prior four.

"If you don't guard him, he's going to shoot it," Cincinnati coach Mick Cronin told the team's official website. "And then the second thing is he's a very smart player. If you're out of position, he's going to draw the foul and he's an excellent free throw shooter."

The Mustangs shot a season-low 41.1 percent after they had been leading all AAC teams with a 51.9 field-goal percentage. They also ranked fourth nationally in 3-point percentage at 44.9 before making only 6 of 23 against the Bulls.

Defense has been a key to Cincinnati's success. The Bearcats (11-4, 1-1) are allowing 57 points per game on 35 percent shooting in wins but 75.3 points and a 45.4 mark in losses.

They spent six weeks in the Top 25 before getting knocked out this week despite snapping a two-game losing streak by holding Tulsa to a season-low 33.3 percent shooting - including 4 of 21 from beyond the arc - in Saturday's 76-57 home win.

Farad Cobb led the way with 21 points while hitting 5 of 7 from 3-point range. The senior guard has averaged 15.2 points and made 17 of 31 from 3 in his last five games.

The Bearcats hope to hold their own on the boards as they rank second in the conference with a plus-7.4 rebounding margin. SMU is second nationally at plus-13.7.

Cincinnati is one of only three teams to win in the Mustangs' 45 games at Moody since the start of the 2013-14 season. Cobb and Troy Caupain had 14 points apiece in a 62-54 win at SMU on Feb. 5 after Cobb scored 18 in a 56-50 home victory Jan. 3.

Moore totaled just 19 points on 4-of-19 shooting against the Bearcats, who have won three of four meetings since the AAC debuted in 2013-14.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Wolverines (12-3) at Boilermakers (13-2)

Date: January 07, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Michigan got to 2-0 in the Big Ten quite easily without its top scorer, but bettering that for the third time in four seasons might be a tougher task even if Caris LeVert returns.

The Wolverines head to Purdue on Thursday night with the 20th-ranked Boilermakers hoping to avoid a second straight home loss and hand Michigan its fifth in a row against the Top 25.

LeVert suffered a lower left leg injury in a 78-68 win at Illinois on Dec. 30 and missed Saturday's 79-56 home victory over Penn State. Coach John Beilein said LeVert's status will be determined by his level of pain in Wednesday's practice and Thursday's shootaround but stopped short of offering any further details. The vague nature of the injury is in itself ominous considering LeVert was limited to 18 games a season ago because of a left foot injury.

"We don't know all the specifics," Beilein said. "I don't want to speculate on what we don't know yet. I think in time, we'll know more."

Things went just fine without him against the Nittany Lions with Zak Irvin and Mark Donnal scoring 16 points and Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman adding 14 as the Wolverines (12-3, 2-0) shot 59.2 percent. Irvin has averaged 11.7 points and shot 54.5 percent in the last six games, while Donnal's effort was an encore to a career-high 26 points against Illinois.

"I think everyone has to step up," Irvin said. "Caris does a lot for our team. He's one of the best players in the country, and we've all just got to have that mindset, that we've all got to pick up what we do to the next level."

Michigan has won six straight with plenty of offense, shooting 55.5 percent and 45.3 from 3-point range with an average winning margin of 31.1 points. But with this game followed by a visit from No. 3 Maryland and a trip to Iowa, those just aren't sustainable numbers. Especially without LeVert.

Michigan was 5-9 without the 6-foot-7 guard last season, and he'd been performing better than ever to start his senior year with 17.6 points per game on 50.9 percent shooting - 44.6 from long range.

Even with him this season, the Wolverines were unable to come close against ranked opponents. Michigan's four straight losses to Top 25 foes have come by an average of 14.8 points, including a 74-60 neutral-site defeat to Connecticut on Nov. 25 and an 82-58 loss at SMU on Dec. 8.

The Wolverines had won four straight meetings before a 64-51 loss last Jan. 3 at Purdue as LeVert was held to six points on 2-of-8 shooting.

The Boilermakers (13-2, 1-1) are coming off Saturday's 70-63 loss to Iowa after building a 17-point first-half lead, losing for the second time in four games as offensive struggles have crept in. Purdue has been held under 70 points in four straight games after reaching that mark in 10 of the first 11. It's averaged 65.0 points, shot 40.0 percent overall and 27.8 from 3-point range in the last four.

"The team was not functional in certain areas. If the guards get into tough spots, guys have got to come to the basketball," coach Matt Painter said. "We just didn't do a good job."

No starter had more than seven points against the Hawkeyes, but top scorer A.J. Hammons has averaged 16.6 in his last five. Fellow big man and No. 2 scorer Isaac Haas has been limited to 5.5 points on 39.1 percent shooting in his last four.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Wildcats (13-1) at Bruins (9-6)

Date: January 07, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Back-to-back losses to the Pac-12's expected bottom feeders has UCLA in a most unwanted position. A looming matchup with the league's premier program makes for a potentially more uncomfortable situation.

The reeling Bruins return home Thursday night against No. 7 Arizona seeking to avoid their first 0-3 start in conference play in 34 years.

UCLA (9-6, 0-2 Pac-12) acquitted itself well during a challenging non-conference schedule in which it earned notable wins over Kentucky and Gonzaga, but it's gotten the Pac-12 slate off on the wrong foot for a second consecutive season. After falling to Washington 96-93 in double overtime in Friday's league opener, the Bruins put forth an uninspired performance in an 85-78 loss Sunday at Washington State.

The Cougars, picked to finish one spot behind Washington in last in the Pac-12 preseason poll, shot a season-high 55.4 percent to hand UCLA a third loss in four games.

'This is not the way we want to start the league and now it becomes a very long, tough road,' Bruins coach Steve Alford said.

UCLA also lost two straight on the road to begin last season's Pac-12 schedule, then regrouped to finish 11-7 en route to reaching the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16.

Avoiding its first 0-3 start since 1981-82 figures to be a tall order considering how Arizona (13-1, 1-0), the league's two-time defending regular-season champion, has fared over the past month.

The Wildcats lead the Pac-12 in scoring defense (63.3 points per game) and rebounding margin (+12.4), though they've been just as impressive on the offensive end during an eight-game winning streak. Arizona has averaged 88.2 points over its last five and shot 55.6 percent in Sunday's 94-82 victory at rival Arizona State.

Boosted by Kaleb Tarczewski's return from a foot injury, the Wildcats received 22 points from Gabe York and a second consecutive 20-point outing from standout freshman Allonzo Trier.

Tarczewski contributed eight points - five during a key 14-0 first-half run - in 15 minutes after missing the previous eight games.

"I don't know if we win without Kaleb," coach Sean Miller said. "His presence, just giving us another body in his 15 minutes, what he was able to do rebounding (and) defending. With him and without him we're two different teams."

UCLA has usually been a different team at Pauley Pavilion, where it's won seven straight after being upset in overtime by Monmouth in the Nov. 13 season opener. The Bruins have shot 47.2 percent at home compared to 41.6 percent in their three road games.

They'll hope to get leading scorer Bryce Alford back on track following a 2-of-10, nine-point performance against Washington State. The junior guard is 14 of 55 (25.5 percent) over his last four games.

Center Thomas Welsh has averaged 16.0 points and 13.0 rebounds in three straight double-doubles, while Isaac Hamilton had a season-high 27 points in Sunday's defeat.

Arizona won both of last season's two meetings, though neither took place in Westwood. The Wildcats had lost seven of eight at UCLA prior to a 79-75 victory in January 2014.

The Wildcats won 57-47 in Tucson on Feb. 21 and handed the Bruins a 70-64 loss in the 2015 Pac-12 Tournament semifinals.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Fighting Illini (8-7) at Spartans (14-1)

Date: January 07, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Tom Izzo praises Denzel Valentine as the most unique player he's ever coached because of an all-around skill set that's enhanced by his leadership qualities.

It's no wonder Michigan State has looked pedestrian through two close calls and been outmatched in a road loss during Valentine's absence.

The fifth-ranked Spartans play their fourth straight game - and possibly their last - without the senior standout Thursday night when they face an Illinois team that has won its last two trips to the Breslin Center.

Michigan State (14-1, 1-1 Big Ten) surged to the No. 1 ranking with the best start in school history behind Valentine's averages of 18.5 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.1 assists. He hasn't played since a win at Northeastern on Dec. 19, though, and his teammates haven't been as sharp over the last three games following his minor knee surgery.

The Spartans needed overtime to beat Horizon League foe Oakland on Dec. 22, and a week later they trailed by double digits throughout the second half of an 83-70 loss to an Iowa team that has risen to the No. 19 ranking. Michigan State dropped out of the top spot after a school-record, four-week run following a tough 69-61 win at sub-.500 Minnesota on Saturday.

Izzo's team is averaging 14.7 assists without Valentine after previously leading the nation with 22.6 per game.

Bryn Forbes had a career-high 32 points against Oakland and 20 against the Golden Gophers, but he finished with three against the Hawkeyes. Eron Harris has averaged 19.3 points starting in place of Valentine after scoring 7.0 per game through the first 12.

"It's a struggle for us at times right now," Izzo said. "(Not having) our go-to guy to go to on the perimeter especially has been a little bit of a problem. But it's good to be back home."

Michigan State hasn't played in East Lansing since beating Florida on Dec. 12.

Valentine has gone through non-contact drills in practice but hasn't been cleared to play. He hopes to return Sunday at Penn State, and Izzo said the worst-case scenario would be for Valentine to come back against the Hawkeyes on Jan. 14.

Still, the Spartans are held to certain expectations even without their best player. It's a far different feeling than when they were a longshot to reach the Final Four last season but accomplished the feat as a No. 7 seed.

"To hell with being the underdog. I don't mind the pressure anymore, I actually like it," Izzo said. "I actually think it is a compliment and I think our program and our fans and everybody else has to learn to deal with it."

The Fighting Illini (8-7, 0-2) have embraced the underdog role in their last two visits to the Breslin Center, winning 53-46 on March 1, 2014, and 59-54 on Feb. 7. They'll likely have to play much better than they have recently to win there again.

Illinois has dropped back-to-back games following a five-game winning streak, falling 78-68 to Michigan on Dec. 30 and 75-73 at Ohio State on Sunday.

Michael Finke, Jalen Coleman-Lands, Malcolm Hill and Kendrick Nunn scored 14 points apiece Sunday for the Illini, who entered tied for 10th in the country in free throws allowed per game with 14.9. The Buckeyes went 28 of 39 from the line, while Illinois finished 9 of 11.

"That was the difference in the game," coach John Groce said. 'We've got to play a lot harder without fouling."

Michigan State held Illinois to 28.8 percent from the field while winning the most recent meeting 60-53 on Feb. 22 behind 20 points from Valentine.

Hill averaged 18.0 points in last season's two meetings and is at 17.9 this season but has shot 7 for 24 in his last two games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAA Basketball Betting 3-Point Play: Three Interesting Jan. 7 Opening Lines
by Alan Matthews

And then there were two ... unbeaten teams that is. There were three schools without loss entering this week, and one of them, No. 2 Oklahoma, lost its first game Monday night in a triple-overtime thriller at No. 1 Kansas. Certainly no shame in that. The second, surprising South Carolina, improved to 14-0 with a win at Auburn in USC's SEC opener on Tuesday. So the Gamecocks could be the last one standing if SMU is upset at home by Cincinnati on Thursday night.

Cincinnati at No. 15 SMU (-8)


A 7 p.m. ET tip on ESPN in an American Athletic Conference matchup. The Bearcats (11-4, 1-1) were ranked for a while, but that went away following home losses to No. 11 Iowa State and Temple. UC ended that two-game skid with a 76-57 win over Tulsa on Saturday. Farad Cobb was the only Bearcat to score in double figures with 21 points, and he leads the AAC in 3-pointers made. Gary Clark added 14 rebounds. As usual, Cincinnati won with defense. Tulsa shot just 22 percent in the first half and went nearly 14 minutes without a field goal. Thus the Golden Hurricane were down 14 at intermission.

SMU (13-0, 2-0) is ineligible for the NCAA Tournament because of recruiting violations, which is a shame because this is clearly the best team in the conference and has a legitimate shot of running the table in the regular season. The Mustangs also can't play in the conference tournament. Coach Larry Brown was suspended nine games but is back now. However, star guard Keith Frazier, who was the target of the NCAA's investigation, reportedly has left the team. He missed SMU's 72-58 win over South Florida, and media reports are he won't be back. Frazier, a very highly-touted recruit, was averaging 11.9 points per game. Cincinnati won both meetings last year and is 3-1 in the series since both joined the AAC.

Key trends: UC is 6-2 against the spread in its past eight road games. SMU is 2-5 ATS in its past seven at home.

I'm leaning: Cincinnati because of no Frazier. Still expect an SMU win.

No. 16 Louisville at NC State (+6.5)

A 7 p.m. ACC tip off on ESPN2. The Cardinals (12-2, 1-0) were a little rusty in their ACC opener on Sunday at home as they hadn't played since a close loss at Kentucky on Dec. 26. But Louisville escaped Wake Forest 65-57. Freshman Donovan Mitchell had season highs with 18 points and eight rebounds in his first start and Chinanu Onuaku added 12 points and a career-high 15 rebounds. U of L played without second-leading scorer Trey Lewis (14.7 ppg) due to a sprained ankle suffered in practice. He's likely to play here. But Mitchell is expected to stay in the starting lineup as the freshman is blossoming. Coach Rick Pitino has now used eight different starting lineups this season. Sunday marked the first time Louisville has won a game this season by fewer than 20 points.

NC State (10-4, 0-1) was surprised 73-68 in overtime at Virginia Tech on Saturday to end the Wolfpack's six-game winning streak. They blew a 14-point second-half lead. NCSU's Cat Barber, the ACC's leading scorer, played every single minute of the game and had 21 points with seven rebounds. NC State had a chance to win the game at the regulation buzzer, but Barber had his shot blocked. The Wolfpack were just 5-for-12 from the free-throw line in overtime. NC State will be wearing its all-black Adidas alternate uniforms for this one. The Wolfpack were struggling entering a game at Louisville last year and donned the black. They pulled off a 74-65 upset over the No. 9 Cardinals and that was a springboard for a strong NC State finish to the regular season that got it an NCAA Tournament berth. Barber had 21 points vs. the Cards.

Key trends: The Cardinals are 3-7 ATS in their past 10 ACC games. NC State has covered 18 of its past 25 following a loss.

I'm leaning: NC State.

Texas San Antonio at UAB (-22.5)

At times, I will look at the games with the highest total on the board, and that's the case for this Conference USA matchup that tips at 8 p.m. ET (no TV). UTSA (3-12, 1-1) isn't a very good team. Its only nonconference wins were over schools called Southern Utah and East Central. But the Roadrunners pulled off an 85-80 home upset of Rice on Sunday. Christian Wilson poured in a career-high 23 points off the bench to help UTSA build a 21-point second-half lead and hold off the Owls. Wilson went 8-of-10 from the floor and added five rebounds and three steals. Ryan Bowie, who ranks second in the league at 18.4 points per game, added 20 points. UTSA shot a season-high 55.8 percent.

UAB (11-3, 1-0 C-USA) has won eight straight since neutral-court losses to Illinois and Virginia Tech in a Thanksgiving holiday tournament. The Blazers handled visiting Middle Tennessee 78-67 on Sunday. UAB was down 12 at the half but managed a fifth straight double-digit win, a program first since 2002. It was also UAB's 17th straight home win. Middle Tennessee shot 66.7 percent from the field in the first half and 20 percent in the second (had just four points in the final seven minutes). Robert Brown and Nick Norton scored 14 points apiece to lead UAB. Chris Cokley's 15.2 points and 7.1 rebounds per game lead the team this season. UAB is 2-0 all-time in this series as the teams have met once each of the past two seasons.

Key trends: UTSA is 1-4 ATS in its past five on the road. It is 4-11 ATS in its past 15 after a win. UAB is 16-6 ATS in its past 22 in the conference.

I'm leaning: UAB.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Notes for Thursday's games..........

Hofstra won three of its four games with Charleston, splitting pair here; Pride won its first two CAA games by 10-32 points, scoring 90 in both games- they're shooting 39.9% on arc (#20). Charleston is playing first home game in month; they split last four games, losing at Wm Mary by 8 Saturday. Over last 6+ years, Hofstra is 12-4 as CAA road favorites, Cougars are 4-2-1 as home dogs. CAA home teams are 2-8 vs spread.

NC State pulled upset in Louisville LY, then lost 75-65 to Cardinals in ACC tourney; Wolfpack had 6-game win streak snapped at Va Tech in OT last game; they're 2-2 vs top 100 teams, but don't shoot well. Cards are 0-2 in true road games, losing at Michigan State/Kentucky by total of six points. Last five years, Louisville is 11-15 as conference road favorite. ACC home underdogs are 3-3 vs spread.

SMU is one of two undefeated teams in country (South Carolina); they can't play in postseason, so winning AAC regular season is all they have. Mustangs lost three of last four games with Cincinnati, splitting pair of games here. SMU won its first two AAC games by 12-14 points, giving up 63.5 ppg. Bearcats split last eight games; none of losses was outside of Cincinnati. AAC home favorites are 4-6 vs spread.

Cleveland State beat Green Bay by 14-5 points LY, after losing five in a row to Phoenix before that; Vikings allowed 87 ppg in losing first couple Horizon games by 18-8 points- they're 1-10 vs top 200 teams, best win by hoop over #107 Belmont. Green Bay scored 81 ppg in winning first two league games by 16-8 points; they're playing #2 pace in US, making 37% on arc, but only 61.3% on line (#335).

Ole Miss is opening its new arena here; Rebels won four of last five with Alabama, in series where home side won seven of last eight series games. Crimson Tide lost last five visits to Oxford, by 7-9-5-4-13; they turn it over 21.2% of time (#311), scored 52.3 ppg in three true road tilts, with 80-48 loss at Dayton. Ole Miss had 7-game win streak snapped last game by Kentucky- they were 5-0 in old home gym this season.

UL-Lafayette won last three games with Ark-Little Rock; two of three games went OT,. Cajuns lost six of last eight visits here- home side won five of last six series games. ULL is 0-3 vs top 100 teams, losing by 6-12-9 points; they're 0-6 in true road games, with nine points closest of six. UALR allowed 60.5 ppg in winning first two league games by 9-6 points. Sun Belt home favorites are 5-1 vs spread.

Arizona won three of last four games with UCLA but lost three of last four played here; five of last six series games were decided by six points or less. Last 3+ years, Wildcats are 12-15 as Pac-12 road favorites; they are 5-1 vs top 100 teams- only loss was by 4 to Providence on a neutral floor. UCLA got swept on Washington swing for first time in 20+ years; Bruins lost three of last four games. Pac-12 home underdogs are 4-2.

Home side lost last four Illinois-Michigan State games; Illini won last two visits to East Lansing, 53-46/59-54. Illinois has been banged-up this year; they're 0-2 in Big 14, losing by 10-2 points, allowing 76.5 ppg. Michigan State was on road all last week, losing first game to Iowa. Spartans are in bottom 10 in country at forcing turnovers but are #2 in eFG% defense in country- they're top 20 rebounding team. . Big 14 home faves are 3-2.

Michigan won four of last five games with Purdue, losing 64-51 here LY, its first loss in last six visits to Mackey Arena. Boilers led Iowa by 17 at half in last game but lost by 7, scoring only 26 points in 2nd half. Purdue split last four games after 11-0 start; they have #1 eFG% defense in US. Over last six years, Wolverines are 24-15 vs spread as Big 14 road dogs. Big 14 home favorites are 6-7 against the spread.

Old Dominion/Louisiana Tech split pair of C-USA meetings, with both at ODU. Monarchs won last four games after 4-6 start- they're 0-4 in true road games, with three losses by 9 or less points. Bulldogs are 12-2 vs schedule #320; they won at Ohio State, beat Tex-Arlington by 12- they force turnovers 21.2% of time (#48). C-USA home favorites are 4-2 vs spread. This is ODU's first visit to Ruston for a C-USA game.

Arizona State won five of last seven games with USC but lost to Trojans in Pac-12 tourney last March; ASU won two of its last three visits here. Sun Devils are 2-1 in true road games, winning at Creighton/UNLV- they lost at Kentucky. USC had 7-game win streak snapped at Washington as Trojans blew 22-point lead. USC has #10 eFG% defense. Pac-12 home favorites are 3-2 against the spread.

Murray State is 11-1 in last 12 games with Tennessee Tech, winning six in row, last two by 39-16 points. Tech lost last nine visits here, with four of last six losses here by 11+ points. Racers lost five of last six D-I tilts with two of five losses at home. Tech scored 90 ppg in winning first two OVC games, by 10-23 points. Eagles are 1-5 in true road games, winning at #277 Lipscomb. OVC home favorites are 4-2 vs spread.

North Dakota State won its last six games with Omaha, winning the three here by 44-22-7 points. Bison won five of last six D-I games, winning by 26 over Decent in Summit opener. Mavericks scored 79 ppg in winning first two league games; Omaha are 3-3 in true road games; they scored 100+ points in all three true road wins. Summit home favorites are 3-7 vs spread. Omaha is shooting just 28.6% on arc, #334 in country.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Wildcats try for 9 straight'

Arizona Wildcats (13-1, 8-6 ATS) have ripped off eight straight including a 94-82 victory as 3.5 point road chalk over Arizona State in its Pac-12 opener. Wildcats lead by Ryan Anderson (15.1), Allonzo Trier (14.1), Gabe York (13.7) are netting 80.0 points/game and sport a smothering defense holding opponents to 63.3 per/contest on 40.7% shooting, 29.1% from outside.

Bruins (9-6, 4-11 ATS) are entereing this matchup off back-2-back losses to Pac-12 rivals Washington and Washington State. Bruins drop 79.9 per/game with Bryce Alford (16.9) leading five players in double digit scoring. On the other side of the court keeping the ball out of their own basket is a work in progress as Bruins are allowing opponents a whopping 76.5 points/game.

Arizona won both meetings last year but failed at the betting window in both games. Going back eleven in the series, Wildcats are a money-burning 2-9 against the betting line. Still, have to like Arizona in this matchup. Bruins are not shooting the ball well hitting just 39.4% in the two conference games and are having trouble keeping the ball out of their basket. Consider laying the -3.0 points, Wildcats respond in today's betting range. They're 6-3 ATS including a cover at Pauley Pavilion.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

2014 Horse of the Year California Chrome drew the four post in a field of eight in Saturday’s $200,000 San Pasqual at 1 1/6 miles on the main track at Santa Anita.

The 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner will be making his first start since a runner up finish in last year’s Dubai World Cup behind upsetter Prince Bishop.

Injuries knocked the colt out of a start at Royal Ascot, followed by a defection in the Arlington Million and a no go in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

The goal is a return trip to the desert for this year’s Dubai World Cup in March, and then a shot at this year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic, which will be held at Santa Anita. The colt has won three times over the main track including the 2014 Santa Anita Derby.

The colt got a break as Dortmund will skip the San Pasqual, but he still will face Hoppertunity, who was a game second in the Clark Handicap in his last outing and Hard Aces, winner of the 2015 Gold Cup at Santa Anita.


Here is today’s opening race from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:

GP Race 1 Md $25,000 (12:35 ET)
7 Glass of Wine 4-1
1 Idealism 7-2
3 Cavalia 6-1
10 Dreaming of Eva 9-2

Analysis: Glass of Wine stalked the early pace and finished evenly for third in her debut, sent off at just under 9-1 in afield if 10. The runner up Little Ship came back to graduate against $16,000 foes and then beat $16,000 non-winners of two in her most recent outing here on Jan. 3. The Fawkes trainee is out of a Dehere mare that has dropped four winners including one turf winner. Lopez picks up the callas the barn looks to pick up a win after starting the meeting going 20-0-2-7.

Idealism pressed the early pace and faded to finish sixth last out and now drops in for a tag here for her third career start. She showed some ability in her debut where she was beaten just a neck with third place finisher Ice Women returning to graduate in her next start. Not a real strong turf pedigree but she fits if she runs back to her debut effort.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 1,7 / 1,3,7,10
TRI: 1,7 / 1,3,7,10 / 1,3,7,8,10

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:

GP Race 8 OClm $62,500N2X (4:05 ET)
4 Bishop's Pond 4-1
8 Gap Year 7-2
7 Resilient One 6-1
10 Al's Gal 8-1

Analysis: Bishop's Pond was pinched back coming out of the gate and not a threat last out over yielding ground at the Big A at this level. She passed his first allowance condition at the Spa and then was a decent fourth in the Ballston Spa (G3). She comes back here off a two-month break for the Chad Brown barn that is now hitting at a 30% clip at the meeting. The cut back to nine furlongs should suit.

Gap Year was a good looking Alw-1 winner two back at the Spa and had a rough trip last out at Keeneland at this level in a race washed off the turf. Back on turf here for this well bred filly. She is by Bernardini out of the stakes winner Dubai Escapade ($427,050). She has worked well at Palm Meadows for the McLaughlin barn that is that is 20% winners with runners coming back off a 46-90 day break.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 4,8 / 4,7,8,10
TRI: 4,8 / 4,7,8,10 / 1,4,7,8,10

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Gulfrstream Park
R2: #1 Go Pita Go 8-1
R3: Freedom for D L T 20-1
R4: #5 Sweet Forestry 10-1
R5: #6 Gunnery 12-1
R7: #9 Starship Reina 12-1
R8: #10 Al’s Gal 8-1
R10: #2 Tiz Jeweled 10-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Flamboro Downs

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


Race 6 - Post: 7:40 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 73 - Purse:$7800 - N/W $25000.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 LMC MASS OAK 5/2


# 1 CITIZEN HALL 8/5


# 7 GO GET BRUCE 12/1


LMC MASS OAK has a really strong shot to take this outing. This race could very well be controlled by this gelding. One look at the avgerage speed figure will verify that. Seems to have a formidable class edge based on the competitors he has raced against. Certainly did like this gelding's last race. Ran a solid 70 TrackMaster speed fig. Major player. CITIZEN HALL - The group knows that speed is King in harness racing. This entrant will unlock our way to a nice top prize. Been running with some tougher customers of late, has a distinct class advantage. (Average Rating 77). GO GET BRUCE - Flamboro Downs has been playing to this standardbred's running style, we're looking for a sharp effort. Certainly should be given a look based on the formidable TrackMaster SR earned in the last race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 4 - Post: 8:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 83 - Purse:$10000 - F& M NON-WINNERS OF $6,400 IN LAST 5 STARTS WINNERS OVER $60,000 IN 2015/16 NOT ELIGIBLE. AE. OPTIONAL CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $15,000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 CHAMPAGNE SHOWER 6/5


# 3 BRUSSELS HANOVER 9/2


# 5 CAN'T STOP ME NOW 6/1


After thorough analysis by the consortium, CHAMPAGNE SHOWER comes out as the top choice. Might be there at a decent price tag. More than likely one to keep in your exotics. This mare getting the victory wouldn't be impossible, a chance. The wagering panel noted a formidable effort out of this interesting entrant last time. Hoping for a duplicate of that to score. BRUSSELS HANOVER - This entrant has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 85 avg class ranking. Should play well today. Performing well, earned a formidable TrackMaster Speed Rating in her most recent contest (81). CAN'T STOP ME NOW - Could be the most solid in the group of horses here, showing nice statistics of late. Avg speed is a solid 85. This contender has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 87 avg class number. Should play well today.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Charles Town

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


Race 7 - Allowance - 7.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $24500 Class Rating: 91

FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, WAIVER CLAIMING OR STATE BRED RACES OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE DECEMBER 7 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 7 ALLOWED 4 LBS. W V A RACES NOT CONSIDERED


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 CONCORDE'S MARCH 6/1


# 4 RAZZLE DAZZLE MAN 4/1


# 8 NICE SURPRISE 5/2


CONCORDE'S MARCH looks very good to best this field. Has been running quite well lately and will probably be on or close to the lead early on. Had one of the best Equibase Speed Figs of this group in his last race. Going in a dirt sprint race gives this horse a very good shot. RAZZLE DAZZLE MAN - Almodovar will almost certainly be able to get this gelding to break out sharply in this contest. Overall the speed figures of this pony look formidable in this affair. NICE SURPRISE - Cartagena has this gelding racing well and is a strong selection based on the competitive speed figs recorded in sprint races recently. Has ran very well in dirt sprint races.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Golden Gate Fields

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


Race 7 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 70

FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $12,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 BOLEADORAS 6/1


# 9 EDDIE AND THE KING 9/2


# 8 LOTS OF LUCK 5/2


BOLEADORAS is the top bet in this race. Must be given consideration based on the strong speed rating put up in the last race. EDDIE AND THE KING - This choice will feel the med change - with second time Lasix today. LOTS OF LUCK - Must be carefully examined based on the quite good Equibase Speed Fig recorded in the last outing. Have to examine solely on class, with some of the top class figs of this group of animals.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Penn National - Race #4 - Post: 7:22pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $19,000 Class Rating: 104

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 NICE SURPRISE (ML=6/1)
#7 LOVE'S NOT FAIR (ML=8/1)
#8 LIBERAL SPIN (ML=3/1)


NICE SURPRISE - I like the way this gelding's finish positions have gotten better with each start recently. A sign of a pony coming into top form. Such a dominant closer. He'll try his best to catch the early speed and pass them on the way to the finish line. This gelding registered a nice speed fig of 109 in his last race. That speed rating should be high enough to score this time out. LOVE'S NOT FAIR - I undeniably see portentous signs for this mount right here. LIBERAL SPIN - Nice win percentage this rider and trainer tandem have been putting together. While the finish was disappointing, this horse made a good stretch move last out at Belmont Park. Have to do better in this race. Came home in quick time last race out. A positive sign.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 PARK AVENUE APPEAL (ML=4/1), #9 MODEST MOUSE (ML=5/1), #4 WILD IMAGINATION (ML=6/1),

PARK AVENUE APPEAL - If he hasn't found the winning attitude by now, it will be tough for him to get it today. This thoroughbred likes to be there at the wire, but doesn't usually get the job done. Don't play in the top spot. WILD IMAGINATION - Garnered a quite unimpressive fig last out in a $10,000 Claiming race on December 19th. Doubtful to see an improved performance off of that figure. This gelding will probably bounce, and not come anywhere near the most recent speed fig of 99.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 NICE SURPRISE is going to be the play if we are getting 3/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [7,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,7,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,7,8] with [1,7,8] with [1,2,5,7,8] with [1,2,5,7,8] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Anita - Race #4 - Post: 2:33pm - Maiden Special - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $56,000 Class Rating: 91

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 TOUCHED BY AUTISM (ML=5/2)
#8 AND THEN SOME (ML=6/1)
#2 GOT TOBE AWESOME (ML=3/1)


TOUCHED BY AUTISM - My expertise says this is the lone stalker in the race. Ran against 'open' company last time around the track, in with state breds today. 71-76-87 are last three Equibase speed figs. Improving each time out is something he should do again in this event. AND THEN SOME - This gelding should find these state breds easier than what he faced in his last affair on Dec 30th. Machowsky brings him back again. I advocate you stay with this hot gelding. GOT TOBE AWESOME - This gelding is in good physical condition. Ended up second on December 19th. Taking this jock/conditioner combination is a good decision. This equine picks up a lot of cash per start. Tops in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 SPEEDIN WITH EDDIE (ML=7/2), #3 WONDERING WAYS (ML=6/1), #7 SAMMY WONDER STONE (ML=8/1),

SPEEDIN WITH EDDIE - Not probable that the speed figure he earned on Nov 12th will be enough in this race. WONDERING WAYS - The fig last time around the track doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's race. Mark this thoroughbred as a possibly overvalued contestant. SAMMY WONDER STONE - Not likely that the speed rating he registered on Nov 26th will be enough in this clash.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #1 TOUCHED BY AUTISM to win. Have to have odds of at least 5/2 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [2,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,2,8] with [1,2,8] with [1,2,4,6,8] with [1,2,4,6,8] Total Cost: $36