Tuesday 3/15/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Celtics (39-27) at Pacers (35-31)

Date: March 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Indiana failed in taking a step toward tracking down the team immediately in front of it in the Eastern Conference the last time out, and the Pacers didn't look capable of holding onto a playoff spot much less advancing their cause.

A five-game homestand begins Tuesday night against the Boston Celtics, who happen to be another of the teams within shouting distance and will be adjusting to life without a starting forward while possibly welcoming back another.

Indiana (35-31) fell 104-75 in Atlanta on Sunday and failed to score 20 points in three of four quarters after reaching that mark in its previous 23 12-minute segments. The Pacers shot 37.9 percent and hit 5 of 24 from 3-point range while going 4 of 7 from the foul line - a season low in makes and attempts.

The Celtics might be wise to listen to Paul George's postgame.

"It's been the toughest challenge for us is matching up with these spread teams, and a spread team got the best of us tonight," said George, who matched a season low with seven points on 3-of-15 shooting. "They turned the switch. They took it to another level."

It's been a struggle offensively over a 3-2 span with Indiana shooting 42.2 percent and making 31.6 from beyond the arc. George has been limited to 16.7 points on 31.4 percent shooting in his last three games, but he's averaged 25.0 in three games against the Celtics this season.

The Pacers, who play 11 of their last 16 at home, have won two of three with Boston (39-27) this season. That includes a 100-98 home victory on Nov. 4 as part of four wins in the last five played in Indiana since the start of 2013-14.

Boston, which is four games up on Indiana, plays nine of its last 16 on the road and faces a difficult back-to-back with Wednesday's home contest against Oklahoma City looming and a trip to Atlantic Division-leading Toronto two days after that.

George could have an easier time than he normally would against Boston with Jae Crowder out. Coach Brad Stevens is now charged with finding a way to contain not only George, but also forwards such as Kevin Durant and DeMar DeRozan in the near future with the key defensive component expected to miss two weeks with a sprained right ankle.

Kelly Olynyk could return from an 11-game absence due to a right shoulder sprain, but he's not the type of versatile defender Crowder is.

"It's a heck of a challenge when you look at our week ahead," Stevens, a former favorite in the state of Indiana while coaching Butler, told the team's official website. "That's why long, athletic, versatile guys are in such demand in this league. We may be a little bit smaller at times at the three and we may be bigger than we've been at times at the four. We'll see how it all plays itself out, but we've got a lot of good players and it's a great opportunity for them."

Granted, Boston has often had impressive offensive showings to fall back on lately. Friday's 102-98 home loss to Houston was its first in 10 games under 100 points, and the Celtics have averaged 111.0 over a 20-9 span since last failing to reach 100 in consecutive games.

Isaiah Thomas still managed to reach 30 points against the Rockets for the third time in five games while averaging 28.2 on 51.7 percent and 50.0 from 3-point range. In his last four starts against the Pacers, he's averaged 26.8, including a career high-matching 38 on Jan. 24, 2014, while with Sacramento.

The Pacers also have some injury concerns with George Hill (toe), Rodney Stuckey (toe) and Ty Lawson (foot) all questionable.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Nuggets (28-39) at Magic (28-37)

Date: March 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

The Denver Nuggets and Orlando Magic are still alive in the playoff race, but time is running out.

Kenneth Faried attempts to match the team record for consecutive baskets made while trying to help the Nuggets capitalize on a matchup with the collapsing Magic on Tuesday night.

Denver (28-39) is six games back of Houston and Dallas for the last two postseason positions in the Western Conference with 15 games to go, while Orlando (28-37) trails Chicago by five games for eighth in the East with 17 to play.

The Nuggets are at least finding a rhythm with a 116.3 scoring average during a 5-2 stretch, but they're surrendering 108.3 over that span. Denver gave up 59.5 percent shooting in Monday's 124-119 defeat at Miami.

Faried, though, is looking to build on an impressive performance. The forward had 24 points and 11 rebounds while connecting on all 11 of his attempts from the floor to match Oklahoma City's Enes Kanter for the best effort in the league this season.

"I just played basketball," Faried said. "Just trying to get a 'W.' We lost, so it's tough."

Faried will need to hit his next six tries in order to tie the Nuggets' consecutive shots made record set by Bobby Jones in December 1976.

He's been an abysmal 7 for 30 from the field while averaging 6.7 points during the last three meetings with Orlando. Faried missed 10 of 12 shots and finished with seven points in an 85-74 loss to the Magic on Dec. 8.

Rookie Emmanuel Mudiay had six points in that matchup, but he's averaging 20.1 in the past seven games after scoring 23 with 10 assists Monday.

The Magic are 9-24 since the start of the year and have dropped four of five after Saturday's 121-84 loss at Portland, their most lopsided defeat of the season. The listless performance, which included shooting 37.4 percent from the floor, came one day after they shot 51.9 percent in a 107-100 win at Sacramento.

"Our issue lately has been playing a pretty good game, getting a win and then following it up by not playing well at all," coach Scott Skiles said. "Not even resembling the team we were the night before. That's been our issue."

Evan Fournier is giving Orlando hope for the future over the last four games, averaging 18.5 points while sinking 51.0 percent from the field.

"He's still a young player learning what it takes in the NBA to be successful every night," Skiles said. "He's at a challenging position. Every night he's playing against a very talented player. He has been overall the most consistent offensive player we've had."

Fournier, however, had three points in December's meeting at Denver, the team he spent his first two seasons with.

Nikola Vucevic and Elfrid Payton had 18 points each in that matchup, but they're both expected to be out this time. Vucevic (groin) has missed the last four games and Payton (elbow) has been sidelined for the past two.

Denver has won three of four in Orlando after going 3-20 in its first 23 visits.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: 76ers (9-57) at Nets (18-48)

Date: March 15, 2016 7:30 PM EDT

The Brooklyn Nets are one of two Eastern Conference teams beaten by the Philadelphia 76ers this season, and the only such club to fall to them twice.

Those two victories are the 76ers' only ones over their last 20 games.

Looking to avoid a ninth straight road defeat, the 76ers can take the season series from the Nets for the first time in five years Tuesday night.

Philadelphia (9-57) snapped a 13-game losing streak with Friday's 95-89 win over Brooklyn. The 76ers' previous victory was 103-98 over the Nets (18-48) on Feb. 6.

After shooting 39.1 percent in a 100-91 loss at Brooklyn on Dec. 10, the Sixers hit 46.1 percent to win the next two meetings at home. Philadelphia held the Nets to 37.9 percent shooting and led by 19 on Friday.

"I think the reflection of how we try to play most nights was exemplified (Friday)," Sixers coach Brett Brown said. "It thought there was grit. I thought there was fight."

The 76ers are 3-38 against the East with the other victory being their most recent road win, against Orlando on Jan. 20. They last took a season series from the Nets with a sweep in 2010-11.

To do it again, Philadelphia must bounce back after allowing Detroit to shoot 53.8 percent in Saturday's 125-111 loss. Isaiah Canaan scored 22 and Carl Landry added 18 but the 76ers were outscored 35-24 in the fourth quarter.

Landry has totaled 34 points on 14-of-22 shooting in two games after being held to fewer than 10 in three of the previous four.

Philadelphia forward Robert Covington is expected to miss a second straight contest after he was taken off the court on a stretcher following an accidental kick to the face by teammate Jerami Grant on Friday.

"It definitely scared me more than anything," Covington said. "But I'm glad to be alright, and I let everyone else know that I'm OK, and I'll be back soon."

Grant was put through the NBA's concussion protocol and could be available for this contest.

Ex-Sixer Thaddeus Young has averaged 20.3 points and 10.0 rebounds in the three games against his former team this season. He had 21 while Brook Lopez led all scorers with 24 points as Brooklyn concluded a 3-6 road stretch Friday.

Being back home didn't help the Nets avoid a fourth loss in a row, 109-100 to Milwaukee on Sunday. Lopez recorded his sixth straight game with at least 20 points and Young had 17 and 10 rebounds as Brooklyn shot 55.7 percent for its second-best effort of 2015-16. However, the Bucks hit 50.6 percent, held a 66-42 point advantage in the paint and scored 33 points off 20 turnovers.

"We didn't take care of the ball," Lopez told the Nets' official website. "We have to be stronger with the ball and more confident and focused in our decision making."

Lopez has averaged 24.5 points and shot 58.5 percent in the past six.

It's uncertain if teammate Wayne Ellington will miss a second consecutive contest because of an upper respiratory infection.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Raptors (44-21) at Bucks (29-38)

Date: March 15, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

The Toronto Raptors are closing in on a third straight Atlantic Division title, but Kyle Lowry doesn't want to take anything for granted.

The Raptors look to show a sense of urgency Tuesday night when they try to sweep the season series from the Milwaukee Bucks.

Toronto (44-21) is atop the division by 5 1/2 games over Boston with 17 games left in the regular season.

The Raptors had a three-game win streak snapped with Monday's 109-107 loss to Chicago.

"(We need to) take the lesson of not being aggressive and that starts with me," Lowry said. "Starting the game off relaxed, not being aggressive and not being defensive-minded, so I take a little bit of that on me."

Lowry and DeMar DeRozan have been terrific of late. Lowry is averaging 26.4 points on 51.9 percent from the floor over the last eight games after scoring 33 with a season high-tying 11 rebounds Monday.

DeRozan had 27 points against the Bulls and is scoring 29.7 per game in the last seven. The All-Star guard had 22 points and eight assists, while Lowry had 16 and nine in a 111-90 win at Milwaukee on Dec. 26.

The Raptors have won all three matchups with the Bucks this season by an average of 15.6 points, improving to 9-1 in the past 10.

However, they've dropped three of four on the road while giving up an average of 110.5 points, a far cry from the 98.6 on the season that ranks third-best in the Eastern Conference.

Toronto didn't do the Bucks any favors as Milwaukee tries to make up ground in the playoff race. Despite three straight wins, the Bucks are five games back of eighth-place Chicago in the East.

If the playoffs aren't a reality this season, Milwaukee appears to be in good shape for the future with both Jabari Parker and Giannis Antetokounmpo playing at a high level.

Parker is averaging 21.2 points on 51.6 percent shooting over the last 13 games, while Antetokounmpo has put up 22.4 with 8.4 assists and 7.9 rebounds in his past seven.

Antetokounmpo set a franchise record with his fourth triple-double of the season Sunday, tallying 28 points, 14 assists and 11 boards in a 109-100 win at Brooklyn. He had 12 points, nine assists and eight rebounds at halftime.

"Sometimes it doesn't look like he's sweating, or breathing hard," coach Jason Kidd said, "and that just shows how talented he is."

Antetokounmpo, though, was limited to a season-low four points against Toronto on Dec. 26, and Parker wasn't much better with nine.

Parker is coming off Sunday's 23-point effort on 11 of 17 from the floor.

The Raptors are expected to have Jonas Valanciunas available after he exited in the first quarter Monday with a injury to his left hand. X-rays were negative, allaying any fears he fractured the hand for the second time this season. The center missed 17 games with the injury, including two against the Bucks.

Valanciunas had a team-high 19 points in a 106-87 home win over Milwaukee on Nov. 1.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Clippers (42-23) at Spurs (56-10)

Date: March 15, 2016 8:30 PM EDT

If it weren't for a headline-hogging run in the Bay Area, San Antonio's home winning streak would be getting significantly more attention. There might be a particular emphasis on the next home game, despite it having no immediate bearing on the streak's standing among the all-time greats.

Although it doesn't factor into the Spurs' 41-game run, the Los Angeles Clippers were the last visiting team to win a meaningful game in San Antonio. They won the last two in San Antonio in the Western Conference quarterfinals on their way to eliminating the Spurs, and Tuesday night they'll try to end the regular-season run a few games shy of matching Chicago for the second-best streak ever.

The Spurs (56-10) moved past Orlando for the third-best home streak with Saturday's 93-85 win over Oklahoma City in the second of a season-high five-game homestand that figures to test San Antonio's home fortitude like no other. It began Thursday with a 109-101 win over Chicago, and Portland and Golden State follow the Clippers.

"This is the best time of the year. These are the best tests that we can have to prepare us for the playoffs," guard Danny Green said. "Joking with (newly signed) Kevin Martin earlier, he thought he was going to come in and get some warmup games, but it's probably the toughest part of the schedule for us and he's thrown into the fire. So, good luck."

San Antonio has won its last three games despite continuing to struggle from the perimeter. It was 4 of 24 from 3-point range against the Thunder and is connecting on 20.5 percent over the past four games.

The Spurs typically hit 38.1 percent from outside, so it's no wonder the homestand has started with a pair of single-digit finals. They haven't had three such games in a row on the winning streak, during which their 16.4-point differential is actually better than the Warriors' margin on their historic run at home.

Individually, LaMarcus Aldridge has countered the outside struggles by averaging 26.3 points on 65.2 percent shooting in the last three games. Kawhi Leonard continues to produce, averaging 23.6 points in the last five games, but the league's No. 2 3-point shooter (46.5 percent) has been limited to 29.2 percent in that span.

A little improvement there would make it easier for the Spurs to track down the Bulls' 1995-96 streak of 44 straight home wins, which Golden State passed earlier this month.

The Clippers have been victimized once on San Antonio's streak, losing 115-107 on Dec. 18, but rolled to a 105-86 win Feb. 18 in the only other matchup. That was the first meeting at Staples Center since Los Angeles won Game 7 of the playoff series following pivotal road wins in Games 4 and 6, but those came with a healthy Blake Griffin on one side and Aldridge still with Portland.

Griffin hasn't played since Christmas, and while the Clippers (42-23) won that game and the first nine without him, reality has set in with a 16-10 record since. Sunday's 114-90 home loss to Cleveland came two nights after an uninspiring 101-94 home win over New York.

"(The Cavaliers) stopped us, they got out in transition and we let them be too comfortable," said Chris Paul, who has averaged 21.4 points and 12.1 assists while notching double-doubles in nine of his last 10 games.

It was Los Angeles' worst loss of the season, and while its home mediocrity remains a concern, it is one of four teams with at least 20 road wins. While Griffin remains out due to a quadriceps injury, Los Angeles embarks on a five-game trip that'll also take it to Houston, Memphis, New Orleans and Golden State.

"This trip stood out," said J.J. Redick, the only player ahead of Leonard in 3-point percentage at 47.8. "It is as difficult as you can get and we are still waiting on Blake to get back."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Kings (25-40) at Lakers (14-53)

Date: March 15, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

There's less than a month remaining in Kobe Bryant's storied career, and he's looking forward to getting it over with.

For now he'll try to help the Los Angeles Lakers save face Tuesday night and avoid being swept in a season series by the Sacramento Kings for the first time.

Bryant's career is winding down in the midst of the Lakers' worst season. Los Angeles (14-53) has the lowest win percentage in franchise history at .209 and has 15 games left to avoid the team record for fewest wins - 19 while in Minneapolis in 1957-58.

That could be partly why Bryant is eager to finish the season.

"One month, 15 games. I'm ready. It's exciting," Bryant said. "These next 15 games should be fun and the last one should be the most fun."

A couple of high-profile matchups against friends have allowed Bryant to have some fun. He had 26 points in a 120-108 loss to Cleveland on Thursday in his last game against LeBron James before facing off with Carmelo Anthony one final time Sunday, scoring 14 on 5-for-15 shooting in a 90-87 loss to New York.

Bryant will try to bounce back as the Lakers look to end a six-game losing streak to Sacramento (25-40), their longest in the all-time series. They're surrendering an average of 115.7 points over that stretch and 120.7 in three meetings this season.

Bryant had 15 points as Los Angeles fell 112-93 at home Jan. 20.

D'Angelo Russell also struggled with 14 points while missing 10 of 15 from the field. The rookie guard was worse Sunday, going 1 for 7 and finishing with four points after averaging 23.3 over the previous eight games.

"You just bounce back with the next one," Bryant said of Russell's struggles against the Knicks. "You have games where you kind of go up and down. He's been playing so well. He's been playing consistently well. But you have a bad game every now and then. He'll bounce back the next one."

That may prove true despite Los Angeles' recent history with the Kings.

Sacramento is giving up an average of 114.0 points while losing 17 of 22, including nine of the last 10 to all but end its playoff hopes.

The Kings are also dealing with an unhappy DeMarcus Cousins, who was suspended for Friday's 107-100 defeat to Orlando after unleashing a tirade at coach George Karl in the fourth quarter of a loss to Cleveland two days earlier.

Cousins has been suspended eight times in six seasons, and he's still bothered by the latest one handed down by general manager Vlade Divac.

"That was no suspension from the organization. That was one from the head coach. There's a difference," Cousins said after the Kings' slide reached five with Sunday's 108-99 loss to Utah.

"There's been so much extra stuff this season. Extra, unnecessary stuff. There are a lot of battles between guys that should be on your side. I would say that this (loss) is one of the most frustrating ones."

While Cousins' attitude may be a problem, his recent production has been impressive. He's averaging 32.8 points over his last four games after scoring 31 on Sunday.

Cousins has totaled 65 points and 26 rebounds while connecting on 61.8 percent from the floor over the last two meetings with the Lakers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Odds: Tuesday, March 15 2016 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

How much longer can the Sacramento Kings keep up with this charade? We all know that Coach George Karl and superstar center DeMarcus Cousins can't co-exist. We all know that star players always win out in that scenario. Cousins was suspended for Friday's game against Orlando for conduct detrimental to the team. It was GM Vlade Divac who announced the suspension on Thursday, but over the weekend Cousins said he believes it was Karl who was responsible for it. "That wasn't a suspension from the organization," Cousins said Sunday. "That was one from the head coach. There's a difference." When told of Cousins' view of the suspension, Divac said with a grin: "I love DeMarcus Cousins. That is my only comment." Remember that Karl was expected to be fired during the All-Star break but the Kings reversed course. I fully expect he's gone the day after the regular season ends.

Celtics at Pacers (-1, 209)

Boston's 14-game home winning streak ended in a 102-98 loss to Houston on Friday. Isaiah Thomas led the Celtics with 30 points but had six turnovers. He had turned it over just once in the previous four games. The Celtics also lost forward Jae Crowder for at least two weeks with a high-ankle sprain. The underrated Crowder is averaging 14.4 points and 5.1 rebounds on the season. Evan Turner likely will move into the starting five. Indiana had a three-game winning streak snapped in a 104-75 loss at Atlanta on Sunday, a season low in points for the Pacers. Paul George was just 3-for-15 from the field in the second of a back-to-back. This is the final meeting of the regular season. Boston lost the first two very early in the season but won the most recent 103-94 at home on Jan. 13.

Key trends: The underdog is 7-2 against the spread in the past nine meetings. The "over/under" is 6-1-1 in the past eight at Indiana.

Early lean: Pacers and over.

Nuggets at Magic (-5, 211)

Denver was in Miami on Monday. Orlando concluded a four-game West Coast trip with a 121-84 loss in Portland on Saturday. The Magic played without starters Elfrid Payton (elbow) and Nikola Vucevic (groin) as well as backup point guard Brandon Jennings (Achilles). Payton and Jennings might play here but Vucevic is going to be out a while longer. Orlando won in Denver 85-74 on Dec. 8. Vucevic had 18 points and 13 rebounds. The Magic won despite going 1-for-16 from long range. They were without Aaron Gordon too. The Nuggets didn't have Gary Harris.

Key trends: The favorite is 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The under is 5-1 in Orlando's past six games.

Early lean: Magic and under.

76ers at Nets (-7.5, 208)

Philadelphia still hasn't won consecutive games this season, falling 125-111 at home to Detroit on Saturday, a night after beating Brooklyn. Robert Covington missed the Pistons game after being taken off the court on a stretcher Friday. He won't play here but he's not seriously injured. Brooklyn dropped a fourth in a row Sunday, 109-100 at home to Milwaukee. Philly's only two wins over the past 20 games are over the Nets. The Sixers have lost nine straight on the road but can take the season series with a win here. I'd say that would probably be rock bottom for Brooklyn if so.

Key trends: The home team is 9-4 ATS in the past 13 meetings. The under is 8-0-1 in the previous nine.

Early lean: Nets and under.

Raptors at Bucks (+3.5, 207)

Toronto was home to Chicago on Monday. Milwaukee won in Brooklyn 109-100 on Sunday. Giannis Antetokounmpo had his fourth triple-double in the past 11 games with 28 points, 14 assists and 11 rebounds. That's already a franchise record for a single season. In his first 212 career games, the Greek Freak didn't have any triple-doubles. Only four other active players have had four triple-doubles in a span of 11 games at any point in their NBA careers: LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, Rajon Rondo and Draymond Green. Toronto looks for the four-game sweep. It won 111-90 in Milwaukee on Dec. 26 in the most recent meeting.

Key trends: The road team is 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The under has hit in four of those five.

Early lean: Bucks and under.

Clippers at Spurs (-8.5, 203)

Your lone national TV game of the night on NBA TV and should have live betting available. Los Angeles played maybe its worst game of the season Sunday, getting thumped 114-90 at home by Cleveland. The Clippers actually led 17-7 at one point. Paul Pierce missed his second straight game with a sore big toe. San Antonio won a third in a row Saturday, 93-85 over Oklahoma City. It was the Spurs' 41st straight home win, which is third-best in league history. San Antonio set a league record by winning its 51st straight game when shooting a higher field goal percentage than its opponent. The Spurs also clinched the Southwest Division if such a thing matters. This likely will be the last time these teams play this season, including playoffs. That's because the Clippers probably will finish as the West's No. 4 seed and thus be eliminated by Golden State in the conference semifinals. The Spurs will be the No. 2. The teams have split two meetings, each winning at home.

Key trends: The underdog is 16-5 ATS in the past 21 meetings. The over has hit in 15 of the past 23 in San Antonio.

Early lean: Clippers and over.

Kings at Lakers (+3, 217)

Sacramento lost a fifth straight Sunday, 108-99 at home to Utah. Cousins returned from his suspension with 31 points and 10 rebounds. It was the first time all season that the Kings never led in a home game. The Lakers dropped a second in a row Sunday, 90-87 at home to the Knicks on a buzzer-beater. Kobe Bryant had 14 points in his final game against friend and rival Carmelo Anthony. This will be Kobe's final game against the Kings, and that brings me back to those great Lakers-Kings games in the early 2000s. Sacramento goes for the four-game season sweep here. The Kings haven't scored less than 112 points in the three games. Overall, Sacramento has won six in a row against the Lakers.

Key trends: The Kings are 5-1-1 ATS in the past seven meetings. The over is 19-9 in the previous 28 in L.A.

Early lean: Kings and over.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Tuesday's hot teams
-- Celtics won six of their last eight games (2-6 last 8AU). Pacers won three of their last four (2-5 last 7HF).
-- Denver won four of its last five games (8-3 last 11AU).
-- Toronto won three of its last four games (1-4 last 5AF). Bucks won their last three games (6-4 last 10HU).
-- Spurs won nine of their last ten games (2-5 last 7HF).

Cold teams
-- Orlando lost four of its last five games (2-4 last 6HF).
-- 76ers lost nine of their last ten games (8-4 last 12AU). Brooklyn lost six of its last seven games (1-2HF).
-- Clippers lost three of last five games (1-4 vs spread).
-- Sacramento lost its last five games (1-4AF). Lakers lost seven of their last ten games (7-6 last 13HU).

Series records
-- Celtics lost three of last four visits to Indiana.
-- Nuggets won five of last six games with Orlando.
-- 76ers won their last two games with Brooklyn.
-- Raptors won nine of their last ten games with Milwaukee.
-- Clippers won four of last six games with San Antonio.
-- Lakers lost their last six games with Sacramento.

Totals
-- Last five Boston-Indiana games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last six Orlando games stayed under total.
-- Last eight Philly-Brooklyn games stayed under total.
-- Four of last five Raptor-Buck games stayed under.
-- Five of last seven Clipper games stayed under total.
-- Five of last seven Sacramento games stayed under.

Back/backs
-- Denver covered six of its last eight if it played night before.
-- Toronto is 6-3 vs spread on road if it played night before.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Celtics visit Pacers'

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers March 15, 7:00 EST

Both Indiana and Boston are in bounce back mode when the two teams meet Tuesday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. In their last game, the Pacers shooting just 37.9% while allowing Hawks to drop 47.1% from the field, 50% from long range suffered a 104-75 setback which has them at 35-31 (33-32-1 ATS) on the campaign and in possession of the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference. Lead by Paul George (23.3) and four other players in double digits the Pacers net 101.9 per/game. Defensivly, Pacers allow opponents 100.5 per/contest.

The Celtics fell to 39-27 (36-29-1 ATS) on the season with a 102-98 home loss vs Houston and are currently hanging onto third in the Conference. Celtics have six players in double digits with Isaiah Thomas leading the group with 21.9 per/contest. At the other end of the floor, C's are giving up 101.9 per/game.

Despite the recent loss, Celtics are playing solid hoops at the moment, having won six of eight (4-4 ATS) and seventeen of twenty-three with a profitable 14-9 mark against the betting line. Celtics winning 103-94 at home versus Pacers in the last meeting got to think Celtics in great form can steal one on the road as they're ridding a 6-3-1 ATS record when laying 2 or less points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

First Four betting preview: Fairleigh Dickinson vs. Florida Gulf Coast, Wichita State vs. Vanderbilt

Games to be played at University of Dayton Arena, Dayton, OH

Fairleigh Dickinson Knights vs Florida Gulf Coast Eagles (-5.5, 152)

FGCU returns to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since pulling off two huge upsets to reach the Sweet 16 three years ago as it faces Fairleigh Dickinson on Tuesday in the First Four at Dayton, Ohio. Florida Gulf Coast is back after winning the Atlantic Sun tournament while the Knights rebounded from a 2-6 start to win the Northeast Conference.

The Eagles, who shocked Georgetown and San Diego State in 2013 when the team was nicknamed “Dunk City,” has won at least 20 games in four consecutive seasons. Junior forward Marc Eddy Norelia leads FGCU in scoring (17.2) and rebounding (9.2) while shooting 53.9 percent from the field. Fairleigh Dickinson makes its fifth appearance in the NCAA Tournament and first since 2005 with the youngest team in the nation, made up of mostly freshmen and sophomores, which beat Wagner 87-79 in the NEC final. The winner of the matchup between No. 16 seeds will advance to play top-seeded North Carolina on Thursday in East Regional at Raleigh, N.C.

TV: 6:40 p.m. ET, truTV

LINE HISTORY: Florida Gulf Coast opened as 6-point favorites in the first game of the NCAA Tournament and have been bet down to -5.5. The total has been bet down a half point from 152.5 to 152.

INJURY REPORT: No injuries to report.

ABOUT FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON (18-14, 2-1 ATS, 2-1 O/U): The Knights, who were 8-21 in 2014-15, are averaging 80.5 points over the last four games and have won five in a row overall. Darian Anderson is averaging 15.4 points and fellow sophomore Earl Potts Jr. is next at 14.7 after the duo provided 28 and 27, respectively, in the NEC Championship game. Marques Townes (11.4) and Stephan Jiggetts (11.2) also average in double figures scoring for the Knights, who boast five players with at least 30 3-pointers and force 15.4 turnovers per game.

ABOUT FGCU (20-13, 3-3-1 ATS, 3-4 O/U): Norelia was one rebound shy of his fourth straight double-double last time out in the 80-78 overtime win over Stetson while sophomore Antravious Simmons stepped up with career highs of 21 points and 12 boards. Simmons is fifth on the team at 7.7 points per game and two others join Norelia in double figures – Christian Terrell (12.6) and Zach Johnson (11.2). The Eagles are also a young team with 84 percent of their points and 88 percent of their rebounds coming from underclassmen.

Trends:

* Fairleigh Dickinson is 1-6 ATS in its last seven neutral site games.
* Florida Gulf Coast is 12-1 ATS in its last 13 neutral site games.
* Under is 5-2 in Fairleigh Dickinson's last seven neutral site games.
* Under is 12-5-1 in Florida Gulf Coast's last 18 overall.

Wichita State Shockers vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (+3.5, 135)

Wichita State will make its fifth consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament when it takes on Vanderbilt in the First Four at Dayton, Ohio on Tuesday night. Wichita State struggled to a 5-5 start, due in part to injuries, and won 19 of 21 before losing to Northern Iowa in the Missouri Valley Conference semifinals while the Commodores earned their first bid since 2012.

The Shockers need to advance one step to reach 25 victories for the seventh straight season and will lean on senior guards Ron Baker and Fred VanVleet, a two-time MVC Player of the Year. Wichita State will be at a size disadvantage and must get strong play inside against Vanderbilt’s 7-0 center Damian Jones, who was named to the SEC’s first team while averaging 14.2 points and shooting almost 60 percent from the field. The Commodores impressed the committee with wins over Kentucky and Texas A&M along with a pair against fellow bubble team Florida. The winner of the game between the two 11 seeds will meet No. 6 seed Arizona on Thursday in Providence, R.I.

TV: 9:10 p.m. ET, truTV

LINE HISTORY: Wichita State opened as 3-point favorites and have been bet up to -3.5. The total has been bet up a half point from 134.5 to 135.

INJURY REPORT:

Wichita State - L. Shamet (out Tuesday, foot).
Vanderbilt - No injuries to report.

ABOUT WICHITA STATE (24-8, 18-12 ATS, 13-16-1 O/U): Baker is second all time in team history with 237 makes from 3-point range, but was held to 0-of-5 from behind the arc against Northern Iowa. Baker averages 14.2 points, while VanVleet is the only other player in double figures (12.0) after struggling to 3-of-15 from the field the last two games. Forward Anton Grady, a transfer from Cleveland State, picked up his production in the last four games while averaging 13.3 points and 5.5 rebounds, draining 20-of-30 from the field.

ABOUT VANDERBILT (19-13, 15-15 ATS, 15-14-1 O/U): The Commodores dropped their last two games, including a heartbreaker to Tennessee in the SEC tournament, after winning four in a row. Jones has been in double figures nine straight games and grabs 6.9 rebounds per contest – second on the team behind Luke Kornet (7.2). Wade Baldwin IV tops the team in scoring (14.3) despite struggling from the field (15-of-46) the last four games and backcourt partner Matthew Fisher-Davis (9.9) has drained 45.7 percent of his 3-point attempts.

Trends:

* Wichita State is 1-10 ATS in its last 11 neutral site games.
* Vanderbilt is 1-4 ATS in its last five NCAA Tournament games.
* Over is 4-0 in Wichita State's last four NCAA Tournament games.
* Over is 8-2 in Vanderbilt's last 10 overall.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Tuesday's First-Four Tips
By David Schwab

The First Four Round of the 2016 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament gets underway this Tuesday night with a play-in game between the No. 11 seeds in the South Region when the SEC’s Vanderbilt Commodores take-on the MVC’s Wichita State Shockers in a 9:10 p.m. (ET) tip at University of Dayton Arena.

On the undercard this Tuesday night at this same venue is a play-in matchup between the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles and the Fairleigh Dickinson Knights as a pair of No. 16 seeds in the East Region of the bracket starting at 6:40 p.m. ET.

Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Wichita State Shockers (truTV, 9:10 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: Wichita State -3, Total 136

Betting Matchup

Vanderbilt was a bubble team that did not do itself any favors in a stunning 67-65 loss to Tennessee in the SEC Tournament as a heavy 12-point favorite. The Commodores still come into this matchup with a 4-2 record both straight-up and against the spread in their last six games and even though the total stayed UNDER the 146-point closing line against the Volunteers, it has gone OVER in eight of their previous nine games.

The duo of sophomore guard Wade Baldwin IV and junior center Damian Jones have led the way all season long for Vanderbilt. Baldwin is the team’s leading scorer with 14.3 points per game and he also leads in assist with 5.2 a game. Jones is a close second with 14.2 PPG and he is also pulling down 6.9 rebounds a game. The Commodores are averaging 77 points and shooting 46.1 percent from the field.

The Shockers also tested the NCAA Tournament’s Selection Committee’s patience with their 57-52 Missouri Valley tournament loss in overtime to Northern Iowa as nine-point favorites. Their body of work in the regular season including a SU 16-2 record in conference play still proved to be good enough. That loss snapped a SU six-game winning streak and Wichita State in now 4-2-1 ATS in its last seven games. The total stayed UNDER 123 points its last time out and it has stayed UNDER in eight of its last 11 contests.

The backcourt pairing of senior guards Ron Baker and Fred VanVleet should have quite a bit to say about the Shockers’ chances to advance to Thursday’s opening round against Arizona. Baker has a team-high 14.2 points and 4.8 rebounds a game while VanVleet is averaging 12 points and 5.7 assists. Wichita State is well down the list in the NCAA in scoring with 73.2 PPG, but it is the No. 1 team in the country at the other end of the court with a points-allowed average of 59.3 points.

Betting Trends

-- The Commodores are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 nonconference games, but they are just 1-4 ATS in their last five games in the NCAA Tournament. The total has stayed UNDER in 16 of their last 23 games played at a neutral site.

--The Shockers have covered in seven of their last 10 NCAA Tournament games, but they are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven games against the SEC. The total has stayed UNDER in four of their last five neutral-site games.

--These two last met in the 2005 postseason with Vanderbilt coming away with a tight 65-63 victory as a six-point favorite. The total stayed UNDER the 128-point closing line.

Fairleigh Dickinson Knights vs. Florida Gulf Coast Eagles (truTV, 6:40 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: Florida Gulf Coast -6, Total 149.5

Betting Matchup

The Knights made their way into this play-in game with a run all the way to the Northeast Tournament title including a huge 87-79 upset against Wagner in the championship as nine-point underdogs. They covered ATS in two of their three tournament games and the total went OVER in their last two contests.

Fairleigh Dickinson was the second seed in the NEC behind Wagner with a SU 11-7 record in conference play. Sophomore guard Darian Anderson exploded for 28 points in the title game and he has now eclipsed his team-high 15.4 PPG scoring average in three of his last four starts. The Knights are averaging 77.9 PPG and shooting 46.3 percent from the field. Another sophomore at the guard position that has been a key contributor is Earl Potts Jr. with 14.7 PPG. He added 27 points in the winning effort against Wagner.

Florida Gulf Coast hails out of the Atlantic Sun Conference and despite posting a SU 8-6 record in conference play, it was able to turn a three-game run in its conference tournament into a spot in this Tuesday night’s play-in game. The big win during that run was an 89-56 romp over North Florida as 6 ½-point underdogs. The Eagles went 2-1 ATS in their three tournament games with the total staying UNDER in the first two contests.

In a tight 80-78 overtime win against Stetson in the A-Sun Championship, sophomore Antravious Simmons had a big day off the bench with 21 points and the 10-point favored Eagles shot 52.6 percent from the field. Junior forward Marc Eddy Norelia added 16 points to the winning cause as the team’s leading scorer this season with 17.2 PPG. He had scored 20 points or more in four of his previous five starts including 23 in the win against North Florida.

Betting Trends

-- The Knights are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games at a neutral site, but they have covered in five of their last seven games against a team with a SU winning record. The total has stayed UNDER in five of those seven neutral-site games.

-- The Eagles have covered in 12 of their last 13 neutral-site games and they have gone 7-0 ATS in their last seven games played on Tuesday. The total has stayed UNDER in eight of their last 12 games following a SU win.

-- This will be the first meeting between these two teams in recent memory.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAA tournament

Play-in games

Tuesday

North Florida beat Robert Morris 81-77 in play-in LY, also a matchup of Atlantic Sun-NEC teams. Florida Gulf Coast is more of a defensive team now than in '13, when they ran to Sweet 16 under Enfield, who is now at USC. Eagles are 20-13 (4 non-D-I wins); they finished in 3-way tie for 2nd in A-Sun. FGCU is 12-7 vs teams outside top 200. FDU also finished in 3-way tie for 2nd; they're 18-14, with win over #139 Towson their only half-way decent non-NEC win. Knights are 5th-youngest club in America, playing almost solely freshmen/sophs.

In five years of "varsity" (#11-seed) play-in games, underdogs are 7-3 vs spread. Wichita State is 24-8; half the losses came when VanVleet was injured in November; Shockers lost 64-60 to SEC's Alabama- they won five of last six games overall, are forcing turnovers 23.3% of time, #5 in country. Wichita is 7-3 in NCAA tourney games last three years. Since '08; Vanderbilt is 1-4 in NCAA games; Commodores have one senior in their rotation- they've got #3 eFG% defense in country. SEC teams are 4-0 vs MVC teams this season, with three wins by 13+ points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAA Basketball Betting Preview

Vanderbilt vs Wichita State March 15, 9:00 EST

While the majority of the teams in the NCAA Tournament already know who they will be facing in the round of 64, there are a few who are still waiting to see who they are going to be matched up against. The Arizona Wildcats will be waiting for the outcome of the First Four game between the Vanderbilt Commodores and the Wichita State Shockers on Tuesday night before they start their final preparations for the opening round. Either one would represent a tough opponent for Arizona, but you can bet that they will have a preferred opponent in mind. As for this game, these are two decent teams that would probably like their chances against the Wildcats in the round of 64, but before they can play that one they have to battle it out in Dayton, Ohio. This is going to be a fun one to watch.

Why bet on the Vanderbilt Commodores

If truth be told, this is a Vanderbilt (19-13, 11-7) team that has not lived up to expectations. They started the season as a top 25 team, but quickly saw that ranking wiped away. They closed out the season on particularly poor form, losing their last game of regular season before crashing out in the opening round of the SEC tournament last week. It’s tough to see how they are going to be able to bounce back from that, although they will have had some time to practice and try to work out the kinks. This is a team that still has a lot of potential, though, and they are not about to go down without a fight. Vandy are averaging 76.8 PPG, and are giving up 67.3 PPG.

Why bet on the Wichita State Shockers

This will be the fifth straight appearance in the Tournament for the Wichita State Shockers (24-8, 16-2), but it will be the first time that they have had to get in via the First Four route. That makes things a little more complicated, but this is a team that can certainly take advantage of the opportunity that they have been presented. The Shockers won the Missouri Valley Conference regular season title, but ended up going down in the semi-final in the conference tournament. That may be a little bit of a blessing in disguise, as it means they will have had some time to rest before playing this game on Tuesday night. The Shockers are averaging 73.2 PPG, and are giving up just 59.3 PPG.

Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction

I find it hard to believe that Vanderbilt can overcome what was a pretty brutal end to their season, and I also don’t believe that their offense can break down a very talented Wichita State defense. I like the Shockers to win this one quite comfortably.

Vanderbilt Commodores 61 Wichita State Shockers 71

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Tuesday 3/15 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 68 - 213 / $386.50

BEST BETS: 7 - 18 / $26.00

Best Bet: P L INDYANACA (9th)

Spot Play: BB’S HARLEY (2nd)


Race 1

(6) QUICK FUN N has raced very well since arriving from overseas and he has a slight post edge on main rival (7) RODEO ROMEO. The latter has loads of talent and was an easy well-rated winner in round one; the one to beat despite the outside post. (4) WESTERN PIONEER has Bartlett in the bike again and can be considered underneath.

Race 2

(3) BB'S HARLEY didn't race that badly last week after getting hung to dry the week prior; I assume the connections wouldn't send this horse cross-country if there wasn't some talent there. (1) AM MAGIC MAN draws best and certainly is logical from this spot. (2) WAR N MUNN returned from a very successful trip to Woodbine, where he swept the Count B series and he was forced uncovered into a 1/9 winner last week.

Race 3

(3) WAYWARD SON returns locally from The Meadowlands, where he was victimized by some tough trips; Blumenfeld barn is going well now. (1) SER JON also arrives from the big track and was second best in his last two. (2) ANTAR PHIL raced pretty well last week at a big price; consider him here with the improved post.

Race 4

(2) SOME POWER connected upon arrival for the Banca barn and is inside what he needs to beat today. (4) TEAM CAPTAIN has figured it out in his last two for the O'Sullivan barn, which is clicking at 50% this year. (5) J T will be on the move early for Brennan/Burke.

Race 5

(5) SPORTS BETTOR has been solid for these connections and he showed some versatility last week by grinding on the rim; I don't know what's up with the new trainer listed but I assume the routine will be the same. (1) QUALITY CLOSER was third best last week, now draws best and will look to protect position. (2) SHANE ADAM is capable on his best day.

Race 6

(6) TONI'S AFFECTION was nipped on the wire last week by the pocket sitter in his debut for the Vandevort barn; this doesn't look like the toughest division here and he can come out on top with a smooth trip. (2) SPEAKING OUT gets needed post relief and could show more. (1) STEVE SAID will be close up throughout from this spot.

Race 7

(3) COVERT OPERATIVE took all the money but didn't fire last week, his second start since joining the Allard barn. I would expect better today. (2) NORTHERN OBSESSION was second best to the strong winner last out, finishing in front of the top choice. These two seem to stick out here. (10) MASSIVE LIGHTNING has Bartlett driving again and seems capable of better.

Race 8

(1) LE TISSIER returns locally and gets Sears back in the sulky; gelding has a big chance with a stalking trip. (9) DOMINUS HANOVER looks for four in a row and is clearly the one to beat; will the second tier prove tricky today? (6) GABE THE BEAR DEAN has talent for the Schnittker barn and did rally decently last out at a big price.

Race 9

(1) P L INDYANACA toured the track from the eight hole last week upon shipping in and joining the Banca barn; expect completely different results today from the rail. (7) BETTER TO BE LUCKY was racing okay when last seen locally and he picks up Sears today. (6) NED PEPPER broke at 1/9 in his debut for the Beckwith barn; price will be much better now.

Race 10

(6) ALMAFI COAST raced very well to be second best right off the bench and the Garcia-Herrera trainee should only be better today. (4) FLIRTING DUEZY was a winner four back at this level. (3) DIVINATION picks up Mark Macdonald in the sulky, who has been driving well recently; use underneath.

Race 11

(4) ASHLAKE jogged three back at this level and with Tyler Buter driving; the veteran may offer some value in this competitive field. (2) KASCARA ROSA has plenty of talent but clearly needs to stay trotting. (9) DRIVING MISS CRAZY ships in from The Meadowlands off a good try where she just missed.

Race 12

(6) HEADSUP YANKEE broke leaving last out but his prior start was a pocket-rocket win; Bartlett's choice can be forwardly placed again. (4) MARTINI HANOVER qualified effectively and looks best but this one has burned money in the past. (2) BATTLE CALL seems capable of holding off the rest from this spot.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Tuesday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Mahoning Valley (5th) Lukeyontheloose, 3-1
(6th) Bayou St John, 3-1

Parx Racing (5th) Indigo Island, 7-2
(7th) Indy Strike, 9-2

Sunland Park (2nd) Classy Disturbance, 4-1
(6th) Watch It Buster, 7-2

Turf Paradise (2nd) Southern Echo, 3-1
(7th) Perfect Paradise, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Tuesday's six-pack

-- Way back in 1950, CCNY won the NCAA tournament and the NIT in the same year. Back then, the NIT was the bigger of the two tournaments.

-- Last year was 4th time in last 29 years there were no upsets in 5-12 games in the NCAA tournament. That has never happened two years in a row.

-- Only 11 of 31 #1 seeds won their conference tournament.

-- Bad job: Secret Service agent for Donald Trump. High-risk proposition.

-- Bernie Sanders got $5M in campaign contributions in the first 24 hours after he won the Michigan primary. $5M in only 24 hours.

-- LSU passed on any postseason tournament; now the question becomes will Ben Simmons be the #1 pick in the NBA Draft?

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sharp Bettor

Sharp Bettor's Free Pick for Tuesday, March 15, 2016, CBB. 9:10 PM

(545) VANDERBILT VS (546) WICHITA STATE

Wichita State will be at a size disadvantage and must get strong play inside against Vanderbilt’s 7-0 center Damian Jones, who was named to the SEC’s first team while averaging 14.2 points and shooting almost 60 percent from the field. Luke Kornet, a 7-1 junior, is among the national leaders with three blocks per contest. The Commodores impressed the committee with wins over Kentucky and Texas A&M along with a pair against fellow bubble team Florida. The Shockers are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 neutral site games.

Play Vanderbilt.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Roz Wins

Roz's Tuesday, March 15, 2016, Free NBA Pick: 8:35 PM

(539) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS VS (540) SAN ANTONIO SPURS

Two of the top defensive teams in the NBA meet, with the Los Angeles Clippers ranked No. 9 in points allowed, the Spurs No. 1 allowing 92.3 ppg. They are both ranked in the top 4 in field goal shooting defense. LA is on a 12-4 run under the total, 8-3 under on the road. And the Under is 18-7-1 in Spurs last 26 games following a ATS loss.

Play the Clippers/Spurs under the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Tuesday

561 IPFW @ 562 SAN DIEGO STATE 10:00 PM

Take: 561 IPFW +11.5

Based on the power rankings, this game is right about where it ought to be with San Diego State a double digit favorite at home. But this is a game where the intangibles could play a major role, and that’s where I believe the visiting Mastodons own a possibly significant advantage.

A little history will be made at Viejas Arena this evening. There have been 72 consecutive home sellouts at what is absolutely one of the best home crowd venues in college basketball. The Aztec fans are really into it and that building can be very intimidating for even those visiting teams that are familiar with the surroundings.

But there will evidently be nothing close to a sellout tonight. It’s being anticipated that Viejas will be only half full for this evening’s NIT game. I think that speaks volumes about the interest level for this game, and that definitely plays into my take on the matchup itself.

The Aztecs are saying all the right things, and I absolutely respect Steve Fisher’s ability to at least try to light a fire under his players for this game. But the bottom line is this is not where SDSU wants to be. It’s way more March Sadness than Madness on the San Diego State campus for the first time in several years.

Making the chore even more difficult for the Aztecs is the opponent. I’d be willing to bet that most of the SDSU players have never even heard of IPFW. But for the visiting Mastadons, this is big stuff. It’s their first NIT appearance, and while I’m sure they wanted to get to the main event, this is still a nice step forward for a growing program. In reading the previews for this game, that’s exactly what the coach and players are saying, that this is a chance to expand their visibility and put themselves on the map.

The freshness factor could also work in IPFW’s favor. The Mastadons are in on eight days rest. The Aztecs just played three games in three days here in Las Vegas, and it’s a pretty short turnaround.

San Diego State is clearly the more gifted team from a physical standpoint. But it’s a very tough mental spot and let’s face it, the Aztecs had at least intermittent problems throughout the season getting revved up for lesser competition. I expect the underdog to be in this game at least most of the way, and that puts me on IPFW plus the doubles tonight.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp NBA Pick, Tuesday, March 15, 2016 8:05 PM ET

(537) TORONTO RAPTORS VS (538) MILWAUKEE BUCKS

Take: (538) MILWAUKEE BUCKS

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Tuesday, March 15, 2016 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the Toronto Raptors and the Milwaukee Bucks. Toronto is in the dreaded second game of a back-to-back spot. The Raptors lost on Monday night at home to the Bulls, 109-107. The loss snapped a three game win streak. The Raptors are now 3-5 ATS their last eight games. Milwaukee brings a three game win streak both S/U and ATS into tonight's contest. The Bucks have done well against the Eastern Conference, covering 12 of the last 17 games. I'm going to take the Bucks here on Tuesday. We are getting some points and the Raptors could be a bit tired for this one with their third game in four nights. Play Milwaukee