Wednesday 10/26/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mavericks (0-0) at Pacers (0-0)

Date: October 26, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

INDIANAPOLIS - The NBA season kicks off on Wednesday night for the Indiana Pacers and Dallas Mavericks.

New faces in both places breed renewed optimism entering the 2016-17 season.

The Pacers parted with head coach Frank Vogel after last season, and team president Larry Bird said he wanted to redefine the way his team plays. The overhaul also brought point guard Jeff Teague, power forward Thaddeus Young and center Al Jefferson to the Pacers, who tout superior athleticism and depth than previous seasons.

Indiana's franchise player Paul George is looking forward to testing the new-look team in the regular season.

"I don't want to jump the gun and say this is the best team I've been on, but it's shaping up to be," George said. "I've got a new group with unbelievable talent."

The Pacers face another of their former coaches, Rick Carlisle, who is entering his ninth season with the Mavericks. Indiana's new coach, Nate McMillan brings a style of play to the franchise that might not be recognized.

"I think our roster puts us in a position to play any style," McMillan said. "We want to play with a lot more ball movement. Our guys have to commit to running."

There's a lot of talk about George, Myles Turner and the new Pacer players, but former Maverick Monta Ellis will have a lot to say about the team's success this season after his most diligent offseason in several years.

"I rededicated myself this summer in the gym," Ellis told NBA.com. "Last year was tough. I let the team down. It's a new beginning and I wanted to be part of that."

Ellis is hoping to help the Pacers defeat his former team on opening night. Last season, he averaged 18.0 points per game against the Mavericks.

For Dallas, the new faces on the team include two NBA champions from Golden State- Harrison Barnes and Andrew Bogut. The Mavericks haven't made it out of the first round of the playoffs since winning a championship in 2011, and they will be relying heavily on these new additions to get over that hump.

"They're champions," said Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki. "They're great players and they're part of a championship team, so they know how to play and they know how to win."

A lot of eyes will be on Barnes in particular after signing a $94 million contract. His preseason performance brought heaps of criticism in Dallas.

"There's going to be bigger expectations and I'll have a larger role on this team," Barnes told ESPN.com. "But the biggest thing I've learned in my four years I've been in the league is that winning is the biggest priority."

One of the issues for the Mavericks moving forward will be the aging point guards. Despite the talent, Deron Williams, Devin Harris and J.J. Barea are all on the wrong side of 30. As the NBA continues to play a faster game, the Mavs could struggle keeping up at that position.

Last year, the Mavericks and Pacers had identical offensive numbers.

Dallas averaged 102.3 points per game, while the Pacers averaged 102.2. In Wednesday's matchup, look for a high scoring contest as each team will try to get out and run on opening night.

The Pacers won both games against the Mavericks last season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rockets (0-0) at Lakers (0-0)

Date: October 26, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

LOS ANGELES -- Another chapter of storylines unfolds when the Los Angeles Lakers tip off their 2016-17 campaign Wednesday night.

Last season, it was Kobe Bryant's final year that grabbed the headlines, punctuated by a 60-point performance in his last game and a rare Lakers win.

This time it's Luke Walton stepping into the spotlight as he begins his first season as coach when the Lakers face the Houston Rockets at Staples Center in the season opener for both clubs.

Walton replaces Byron Scott, who was dismissed after a franchise-worst 17-65 run last season. While Scott was known as a taskmaster and clashed with players, Walton brings a laid-back approach that the Lakers believe suits his young club well.

"I like leading by love," Walton said, according to the L.A. Times. "But I had hippie parents so that's to be expected. It's the way I was raised."

Walton, formerly the top assistant at Golden State under Steve Kerr, rose as a hot coaching property last season by guiding the Warriors to a 39-4 mark and winning an NBA-record 24 in a row to open the season as interim coach during Kerr's absence for health reasons.

Walton already was on the radar of up-and-coming assistants destined for NBA coaching jobs, but that successful stretch expedited his elevation.

Obviously, the Lakers' job has major challenges. Walton will attempt to mix a crop of young talent (D'Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr. and rookie No. 2 pick Brandon Ingram) and blend it with a core of veterans (Lou Williams, Luol Deng, Jose Calderon, Timofey Mozgov and Nick Young).

"There's no better guy to lead a franchise and teach a franchise from a youthful perspective that he brings to the game with maturity and knowledge," Phoenix Suns coach Earl Watson told the Orange County Register recently. "He sees the game on a different level. There's so many levels at this game. There's so many games within a game. Few can see it with substance the way that he does."

Mike D'Antoni will return for the first time as a head coach since he quit the Lakers' job after the 2013-14 season because the club refused to extend him a long-term deal.

James Harden, the NBA's second-leading scorer at 29 points per game last season, leads a Rockets team that will play for the first time in three campaigns without center Dwight Howard, who bolted to Atlanta as a free agent.

"I think everybody is excited, everybody's ready to get going. We've had a good preseason," said D'Antoni, whose club finished 5-2 in exhibitions. "We've got still a lot of growth that's got to going on and we've got to get a lot better, but I think we're at a reasonably good point."

The Rockets will play without guard Patrick Beverly, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday. Beverly is expected to miss at least three weeks.

"We have to have a couple of guys (who) are going to step up without Pat," D'Antoni said.

In addition to Harden, Trevor Ariza, Ryan Anderson, Eric Gordon and Nene are among those players expected to carry to the load.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Free NBA Picks: Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016, Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

Before we get to Wednesday's NBA schedule, here are my picks to win individual awards in the Association this season: MVP -- Kawhi Leonard, Spurs at +700. I don't think the Thunder will be good enough for Russell Westbrook to win it, LeBron James is going to take several games off this season most likely, and Steph Curry and Kevin Durant will steal votes from one another. Scoring champion -- Westbrook, Thunder at +160. With no Durant around Russ might shoot 30 times a night. Assists leader -- Chris Paul, Clippers at +300. That's if he stays healthy. I think Westbrook (+300) will see his assists drop without Durant around. Rebounds leader -- Andre Drummond, Pistons at +150. The defending champion and a monster. Defensive Player of the Year -- Rudy Gobert, Jazz at +600. The Stifle Tower! The French Rejection!

Heat at Magic (-4, 204)

Did any team have a worse offseason outside of Oklahoma City than Miami? The Heat lost Dwyane Wade, the face of the franchise and perhaps the most beloved south Florida athlete ever, over a few million dollars. And Chris Bosh is never going to play for the franchise again as it won't clear him from his blood clot problem. How quickly the Big 3 broke up! I think the Heat tank this year for a top draft pick and then will be armed with a ton of salary-cap room next summer to lure free agents. Wasn't a big fan of the Magic's draft night trade for Serge Ibaka. Nothing against Ibaka, but he seems redundant on Orlando. It's the Magic coaching debut of Frank Vogel, an upgrade for sure over last year's coach, Scott Skiles.

Key trends: The home team is 5-1 against the spread in the past six meetings. The "over/under" is 9-2-1 in the past 12 in Orlando.

Early lean: Magic and under (Heat will struggle to score this year).

Mavericks at Pacers (-6.5, 199.5)

Dallas is again simply swimming in place and won't be good enough to win a playoff round or bad enough to get a high draft pick. The Mavs were hoping to re-sign Chandler Parsons and pursued free agents Mike Conley and Hassan Whiteside but struck out on all. They did add former Warriors Andrew Bogut and Harrison Barnes if that excites you. I really like what the Pacers did this offseason in trading for Hawks point guard Jeff Teague and Nets forward Thaddeus Young along with signing free-agent Al Jefferson. This might be the East's second-best team. It's the Indiana head coaching debut of Nate McMillan as he was promoted from assistant when Vogel was let go.

Key trends: The Pacers have covered four straight in the series. The over is 4-1 in the past five.

Early lean: Pacers and over.

Nets at Celtics (-13.5, 207.5)

Brooklyn has the lowest wins total of any team for this season at sportsbooks and they are going to have to swap first-round picks with the Celtics -- and that could easily be the No. 1 overall selection in what is supposed to be a very deep draft. Linsanity returns to New York as this will be the Nets debut of Jeremy Lin. It's also the head coaching debut of former Hawks assistant Kenny Atkinson. Boston is considered by most the main threat to Cleveland in the East. The Celtics couldn't get Kevin Durant in free agency but did land the No. 2 prize in Hawks big man Al Horford. Celtics guard Marcus Smart is likely to miss the opener with a sprained ankle.

Key trends: The underdog is 5-2 ATS in the past seven meetings. The under is 6-1 in Boston's past seven.

Early lean: Nets and under.

Pistons at Raptors (-7.5, 201)

On paper, this looks to be the best Pistons team since 2007-08, but they will begin the season without leading scorer Reggie Jackson. He had treatment on his left knee a few weeks ago and the timetable then was 6-8 weeks on the sideline. Jackson is coming off a season where he averaged a career-best 18.8 ppg. Ish Smith is expected to start at the point while he's out. Toronto reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time last season and certainly could again. The Raptors lost shot-blocking and rebounding stud Bismack Biyombo in free agency but were able to re-sign leading scorer DeMar DeRozan to a huge deal. New addition Jared Sullinger will miss at least two months, however, with a foot injury.

Key trends: The Pistons are 5-1 ATS in the past six meetings. The over is 7-1 in the past eight.

Early lean: Raptors and over.

Hornets at Bucks (pick'em, 199.5)

Charlotte lost Lin and Jefferson in free agency but was able to re-sign Nicolas Batum and Marvin Williams, so that's a net win. The team also took a flier on center Roy Hibbert and, finally, defensive wizard Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is healthy, knock on wood. Milwaukee had a crushing injury loss last month when Kris Middleton ruptured his left hamstring. He had surgery and won't be back until after the All-Star break -- if then. Middleton averaged a career-high 18.2 points and 4.2 assists in 79 games last season. That's big loss because the Bucks lack perimeter shooting and Middleton was the team's best.

Key trends: The Hornets are 5-0 ATS in the past five in Milwaukee. The under is 4-1 in the past five meetings overall.

Early lean: Hornets and under.

Timberwolves at Grizzlies (-2, 201)

The most exciting team to watch in the NBA this season outside of Golden State could be the rising Timberwolves. They have the best young roster in the NBA by far. A recent survey of GMs asked who they would start a franchise with right now, and reigning Rookie of the Year Karl-Anthony Towns won the vote. The Wolves also look to have drafted a future star in guard Kris Dunn at No. 5 overall this year. And they upgraded at head coach in hiring Tom Thibodeau. This team could sneak into the playoffs this year, but look out next season and beyond. The Grizzlies were able to re-sign Conley this offseason but had to vastly overpay to do it. They also added Parsons from the Mavericks. This will be David Fizdale's head coaching debut for Memphis.

Key trends: The Timberwolves are 6-2 ATS in the past eight meetings. The over is 5-0 in the past five.

Early lean: Wolves and over.

Nuggets at Pelicans (-3.5, 209)

Denver is accumulating some really nice assets after landing guard Jamal Murray with its first-round pick. The Nuggets will be a lottery team again this year but they have a bright future. Guard Gary Harris is likely to miss at least the first few games after a major groin strain suffered in early October. I really hope the mega-talented Anthony Davis of New Orleans can finally stay healthy this season. That didn't look good when he suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain in mid-October, but he made a surprise early return last Thursday and thus will be in there for the opener. However, the Pelicans open the season without Tyreke Evans (knee surgery, out at least until mid-December) and Jrue Holiday (wife had surgery to remove a brain tumor last Thursday). My early Rookie of the Year pick: New Orleans' Buddy Hield, the former Oklahoma star.

Key trends: The road team is 5-1 ATS in the past six meetings. The under is 13-4 in the past 17 in New Orleans.

Early lean: Pelicans and under.

Thunder at 76ers (+8.5, 213.5)

First an ESPN doubleheader. I will watch every Thunder game possible this season just to see how angry Westbrook plays. He played with more fury than anyone as it was, and now he's going to be crazy with Durant gone. Like to see an O/U triple-double prop on Westbrook this season. I bet he gets at least 20 if he plays all 82 games. Liked OKC's trade for the Magic's Victor Oladipo this offseason. Philly can't catch a break as former Rookie of the Year betting favorite and No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons broke his foot and will be out probably until February -- that's if the team doesn't play it cautious and shut him down all season. Nerlens Noel is out 3-5 weeks after knee surgery. Guard Jerryd Bayless will miss a month with a wrist injury. At least we finally get to see what 2014 No. 3 overall pick Joel Embiid has. He missed his first two rookie seasons with foot troubles but has looked great in the preseason. The 76ers won't give him heavy minutes for a while, however.

Key trends: The Thunder are 10-4 ATS in the past 14 meetings. The under is 6-1 in the past seven.

Early lean: Thunder and under.

Kings at Suns (-3, 215)

Every year I think the Kings are going to finally sneak into the playoffs, and every year they implode because that franchise is a mess. But Sacramento still has a Top-10 talent in DeMarcus Cousins and solid new head coach in Dave Joerger, formerly of the Grizzlies. The Kings are likely to trade Rudy Gay sooner rather than later as he already has said he won't be back next year. Either Phoenix or the Lakers will finish with the West's worst record this year most likely. But the Suns know they are rebuilding and appeared to have a really promising draft. Now they must trade either Brandon Knight or Eric Bledsoe as they don't need both with rising star Devin Booker in the backcourt.

Key trends: The Kings are 5-1 ATS in the past six meetings. The over is 5-2 in the past seven in Phoenix.

Early lean: Kings and over.

Rockets at Lakers (+6, 216.5)

ESPN nightcap. It will definitely be weird seeing the Lakers open a season without Kobe Bryant. It was curious to see Los Angeles give big contracts to veterans Luol Deng and Timofey Mozgov this offseason considering the team is in a full-blown youth movement. Deng makes some sense as he's a great leader. Mozgov makes none. This will be the debut of Lakers No. 2 overall pick Brandon Ingram as well as new head coach Luke Walton, the former Warriors assistant/interim head coach. Also the Rockets head coaching debut of Mike D'Antoni. Houston might well lead the NBA in scoring this year and probably sets an NBA record for 3-point attempts. But that team is going to be terrible on defense. Gone is Dwight Howard and in are former Pelicans Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon. Much like James Harden, both can score but can't play defense.

Key trends: Rockets have covered six straight at Lakers. The over is 15-7 in the past 22 meetings.

Early lean: Rockets and over (you will want to bet over most Rockets games).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA roundup: Cavs collect rings, dump Knicks
By The Sports Xchange

CLEVELAND -- LeBron James celebrated the Cavaliers' championship with 19 points, 14 assists and 11 rebounds for his 43rd career triple-double, and Cleveland opened defense of the franchise's first title by smashing the new-look New York Knicks 117-88 in the season opener Tuesday night.
Kyrie Irving scored 29 points and Kevin Love contributed 22 points and 12 rebounds for the Cavs, who capped an electrifying day with an emotional victory.
Before the game, James wiped away tears and fiddled with his new ring that is stuffed with 216 diamonds -- representing Cleveland's 216 area code.
Carmelo Anthony scored 19 points, Derrick Rose added 17 points on 7-of-17 shooting in his Knicks debut and Kristaps Porzingis had 16 points and seven rebounds.

Spurs 129, Warriors 100
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Kawhi Leonard poured in a career-best 35 points, and LaMarcus Aldridge put together a 26-point, 14-rebound double-double as San Antonio stunned Golden State in Kevin Durant's regular-season debut for the Warriors.
Jonathon Simmons (20 points), Patty Mills (11) and Manu Ginobili (10) provided double-figure scoring off the bench, helping the Spurs use their own strength in numbers to easily beat the two-time Western Conference champs.
Durant hit 11 of his 18 shots en route to 27 points, and Stephen Curry totaled 26 for the Warriors, who won an NBA-record 73 games last season and didn't take their first loss until Dec. 12 after a 24-game winning streak to open the year.

Trail Blazers 113, Jazz 104
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Damian Lillard scored 16 of his 39 points in the fourth quarter as Portland rallied for a victory over Utah in the regular-season opener for both teams.
Lillard also had nine rebounds and six assists, and backcourt mate CJ McCollum added 25 points for the Blazers, who outscored Utah 14-2 over the final four minutes. Allen Crabbe had 18 points off the bench for Portland.
Joe Johnson scored 29 points and Rodney Hood contributed 26 for the Jazz, who also got 12 points and 14 rebounds from Rudy Gobert.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Thunder (0-0) at 76ers (0-0)

Date: October 26, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

The Oklahoma City Thunder are starting over without Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka and the Philadelphia 76ers are starting over with Joel Embiid and Dario Saric.

Philadelphia, however, will have to wait a while longer for top overall draft pick Ben Simmons.

The two teams square off in an NBA season opener Wednesday night in the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

The Thunder went 55-27 last season, but lost to the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals after building a 3-1 lead. Oklahoma City traded Ibaka, a veteran forward, to the Orlando Magic and saw Durant, a perennial All-Star, sign a free agent contract with Golden State.

That would appear to put the bulk of the offensive burden on Thunder guard Russell Westbrook, who averaged 23.4 points, 10.4 assists and 7.8 rebounds last season.

"It's not totally up to me how we play," Westbrook told USA Today. "We have to adjust to how guys play. My job is to be able to adjust to Steven (Adams) and (Andre) Roberson; those guys have gotten better. We have to be able to adjust to the team you have, adjust on a night-in, night-out basis how you want to play."

Adams, a rugged 7-foot center from New Zealand, is expected to improve upon last season's averages of 8.0 points and 6.7 rebounds after playing well in the playoffs. Roberson, known for his defense, scored at a 4.8 point-per-game clip last season.

Westbrook's supporting cast also includes guard Victor Oladipo, who came over from Orlando in the Ibaka trade after averaging 16 points a game last year from the Magic. Rookie forward Domantas Sabonis, who was also part of that deal, is expected to contribute off the bench.

The Sixers, whose 10-72 record last season fell one loss short of equaling the all-time record for futility, will finally unveil Embiid and Saric.

The third pick in the 2014 draft, Embiid has missed the last two seasons as a result of two foot surgeries.

Saric, who was acquired in a draft-day deal from Orlando in 2014, played overseas.

Both showed promise in the preseason. Embiid, a native of Cameroon, averaged 11.4 points and 6.0 rebounds in just 14.7 minutes a game while Saric, a Croatian, averaged 10.2 points and 4.5 rebounds over 21.1 minutes.

"I can't wait (for Wednesday's game)," Embiid told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "That's going to be my first official NBA game. I just went through the preseason. I thought I got better game-by-game. I'm looking to finally get that first game."

Simmons, a forward from LSU, fractured his right foot in training camp and underwent surgery in early October. He will be out until at least January.

The Sixers will also be without guard Jerryd Bayless (right wrist ligament damage) for at least two weeks, and center/forward Nerlens Noel (left knee surgery) for three to five weeks.

Center Jahlil Okafor was also limited to a single preseason game because of a sore right knee.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Wednesday’s games

Miami won eight of last ten games with Orlando, covering four of last five; three of last four series games went over. Heat won four of last five visits to Orlando (3-2 vs spread).

Pacers won/covered their last four games with Dallas; four of last five series games went over total. Mavericks lost three of last four visits to Indiana (1-3 vs spread).

Celtics won four of last six games with Brooklyn (under 4-2). Nets lost three of last five visits to Beantown (2-3 vs spread).

Raptors won seven of last ten games with Detroit, but Pistons covered five of last six series games. Detroit lost four of last five visits to Toronto, but covered last three. Seven of last eight series games went over.

Hornets won eight of last ten games with Milwaukee, winning last four visits here, by 9-7-3-24 points. Four of last five series games stayed under the total.

Timberwolves lost three of last four visits to Memphis, but Minnesota is 6-2 vs spread in last eight series games, last five of which went over the total. Grizzlies are 6-4 in last ten series games.

Road team won five of last six New Orleans-Denver games; over is 6-3 in last nine series games. Nuggets won three of last four visits to Bourbon Street.

Thunder won their last ten games with Philly, but 76ers covered three of last four. No Ben Simmons for a while (ankle) for the Sixers. Six of last seven series games stayed under.

Kings won five of last six games with Phoenix (under 4-2). Sacramento won three of last four visits to the desert. Three of last four series games were decided by 20+ points.

Rockets won five in row, nine of last ten games with Lakers (9-1 vs spread); Houston won its last six games at the Lakers, with all six wins by 12+ points. Three of last four series games went over the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Nuggets (0-0) at Pelicans (0-0)

Date: October 26, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

NEW ORLEANS -- The New Orleans Pelicans were a MASH unit last season, so riddled with injuries that their players missed a combined total of 351 games, forcing coach Alvin Gentry to use 42 starting lineup combinations.

Now that the calendar has flipped to the 2016-17 season -- with the home opener Wednesday night against the Denver Nuggets at Smoothie King Center -- Gentry wouldn't be blamed if he enlisted the aid of a French Quarter voodoo priestess as a way of ensuring the good health of his players, especially All-Star forward Anthony Davis.

Davis, the first overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, never missed a game in his 40-game, NCAA championship, freshman season at Kentucky. But, in four NBA seasons, the Pelicans' franchise player has missed 68 games with injuries. A medical flow chart indicates he has injured 13 body parts.

Davis' porcelain reputation can be explained in part by his pedal-to-the-metal style and his penchant for throwing his body into the expensive seats chasing down loose balls. But after Davis' season-ending knee injury last March, which required arthroscopic surgery, forced him to withdraw from the U.S. Olympic team, he spent the summer fully rehabbing and continuing to add muscle to his athletic frame.

Then, with the Pelicans playing in China on Oct. 12, Davis stepped on the foot of Houston Nene's foot and suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain. But Davis returned for the preseason finale on Friday and is scheduled to start Wednesday.

"It doesn't concern me," Davis, who averaged 24.3 points, 10.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks last year, said about his recent injury history. "It's basketball. Injuries are part of basketball."

It just seems that the Pelicans have more than most other teams. General manager Dell Demps said Tuesday he does not expect guard Tyreke Evans (knee) to hit the floor until December. Forward Quincy Pondexter (knee), who has not played since April 2015, has had a few setbacks in his recovery and "is probably going to take a little bit longer."

In addition, starting point guard Jrue Holiday is healthy but is caring for wife Lauren, who last month gave birth and then underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. The Pelicans have placed no timetable on when Holiday will return to the team.

Evans' injury and Holiday's unavailability contribute to the Pelicans' decision to keep guard-forward Lance Stephenson, releasing Alonzo Gee even though Gee had a $1.2 million guaranteed contract.

"With the injuries to Tyreke and Jrue not being with the team, we felt we needed a little more playmaking," Demps said. ("Lance) can go out and create and make plays for others."

"Anybody would be disappointed, but it's just a part of it," Gentry said. "You hope that everybody gets better."

While much of the NBA seems to be enamored with small ball, the Nuggets appear to be getting bigger. Coach Mike Malone paired big men Jusuf Nurkic (7-0) and Nikola Jokic (6-11) during the preseason and appears ready to give it a try for real.

Nurkic has shown the ability to draw fouls as the Nuggets work their offense through him, and he is strong on the offensive glass and finishing near the basket. Jokic has been a cog in the Nuggets' high-post offense and has shown the ability to pick and pop. Both are considered capable passers.

"There's definitely some Balkan buddy ball going on with those two guys," Malone said. "They do look for each other, which is great. They're so skilled, and the great thing about Nikola is that he can space the floor, so it's not like we have two guys that are stuck on the block, which takes away driving lanes from our perimeter players. The floor is open."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Kings (0-0) at Suns (0-0)

Date: October 26, 2016 10:00 PM EDT

PHOENIX -- After a season of injuries and indecision, the Phoenix Suns hope they have tweaked their young roster correctly as they open the 2016-17 season against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night.

Two years ago, the Suns' best three guards (Eric Bledsoe, Goran Dragic and Isaiah Thomas) all played the same position. But the logjam at point guard quickly went from unworkable to untenable, beginning a spiral that forced a reboot to the Suns' rebuilding plans.

Now the Suns kick off the 2016-17 season with three guards with defined positions and roles.

Bledsoe is the survivor of the purge and the undisputed point guard, hoping to rebound from injuries that forced him to watch most of last season's 23-59 disaster from the sideline.

Devin Booker, who rose from the ashes of a terrible season, is now the starting shooting guard and face of the franchise a few days shy of his 20th birthday. He became the fourth-youngest player in league history (behind LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant) to score 1,000 points in a season.

Brandon Knight, plagued by injuries and inconsistency but an undeniable offensive force, will come off the bench as a sixth man who will see major playing time in coach Earl Watson's rotation that now includes former Suns Leandro Barbosa and Jared Dudley and a host of promising but unproven talent.

With Bledsoe, Booker, Knight and Barbosa heading up the guard rotation, the Suns waived Archie Goodwin on Monday and opted to keep John Jenkins and Tyler Ulis at the end of the bench. Goodwin had several highlight-reel moments during his three seasons with the Suns but never enough to warrant serious playing time.

Suns general manager Ryan McDonough told Arizona Sports 98.7 FM that Goodwin had requested a change of scenery.

"We felt like we got down to 16 really good, quality NBA players. Archie and his agents for the last few months asked us to accommodate a trade request," McDonough said. "With that in mind, we told Archie and his agent we'd try to help him move to a team where he'd have an opportunity and play. Unfortunately, we weren't able to work out a deal. This time of a year, it's hard."

Forward P.J. Tucker, who underwent back surgery in September, was cleared to play on Tuesday and will come off the bench. T.J. Warren, coming off season-ending foot surgery himself, will start at forward with Dudley and Tyson Chandler at center.

While the Suns have missed the playoffs for six consecutive seasons, the Kings are trying to break a 10-year postseason drought. Despite an explosive season from center DeMarcus Cousins, who ranked fourth in the NBA in scoring at 26.9 points per game, the Kings won only 33 games -- the most in Cousins' six season in Sacramento.

The Kings won three out of four meetings with the Suns last season, and Cousins was a big reason.

Sacramento will start the season without starting point guard Darren Collison, who will begin an eight-game suspension due to a guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of domestic battery. Ty Lawson will start at the point for the Kings, looking to rebound after two poor seasons and two DUI arrests in 2015.

The Kings will open the season with 11 games in the first 17 days. Most of those games will be with Lawson as the only true point guard on the roster.

"It's going to be a rough stretch," Lawson told the Sacramento Bee. "If things go bad, we've just got to stick together. We can't pull apart. Things are going to happen, but I feel like if we stay positive and stick together, we'll be able to get through it."

Former Sun and new King Matt Barnes will miss his first game with the Kings due to rib and knee problems.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL

Wednesday’s games

Islanders lost their last six games with Montreal; under is 5-3 in last eight series games. Canadiens won their last five visits to Long Island (under 3-1 in last four). Montreal won its last four games, allowing five goals (over 3-3). Islanders won three of last four games (all at home); four of their last five games stayed under.

Home side won last six Boston-NY Ranger games; Bruins lost last three visits to Manhattan by combined score of 10-5. Three of last four series games went over total. Boston lost last two games 4-2/5-0; four of their last five games stayed under. Rangers won three of their last four games (over 3-2-1).

Washington is 6-3 in its last nine games with Edmonton; under is 5-3 in last eight series games. Caps are 3-2 in last five visits here (under 3-1 in last four). Washington won three of last four games (over 2-2-1). Oilers won three in row, five of first six games, with last three staying under the total.

Nashville ousted Anaheim in seven games in LY’s playoffs; under is 3-1-1 in last five series games. Predators won three of last four visits here. Preds lost three of last four games (over 3-1). Ducks lost five of first seven games; they won only home game 4-2. Over is 2-3-2 in their games this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Wednesday's Tip Sheet
By Kevin Rogers

Heat at Magic (-4, 200) – 7:05 PM EST

The battle of the Sunshine State will showcase plenty of new faces in the opening matchup of the season. Dwyane Wade is off to Chicago, while Chris Bosh remains out with blood clots for Miami as the Heat will be challenged in their defense of the Southeast division title. Miami grabbed three of four meetings from Orlando last season, while riding a five-game winning streak in season openers since 2011. With Wade and Bosh not in the picture, the two leading scorers returning for Miami are center Hassan Whiteside (14.2 ppg) and point guard Goran Dragic (14.1 ppg).

Orlando has a brand new head coach in Frank Vogel after spending the last six seasons with Indiana, which included five playoff appearances. The Magic parted ways with former lottery pick Victor Oladipo, while acquiring veterans Serge Ibaka and Bismack Biyombo to bolster their frontcourt. Orlando finished in the cellar of the Southeast with a 35-47 record, which included a 4-12 mark against division foes. However, the Magic started last season cashing its first seven games, although six of those covers came in the underdog role.

Mavericks at Pacers (-6 ½, 206 ½) – 7:05 PM EST

The clock on Dallas continues to tick as this veteran squad got younger in one aspect by inking former Warrior Harrison Barnes to a long-term deal. Dallas slumped to a 2-5 record in the preseason, while averaging 94 ppg, which ranked second-to-last in the Western Conference. The Mavericks finished tied for second place in the Southwest last season at 42-40, while winning seven of their final nine games to sneak into the playoffs. Dallas has covered four consecutive season openers, including a 3-0 ATS mark as a road underdog.

The Pacers are back in the discussion of a top-four team in the Eastern Conference behind the Cavaliers, Celtics, and Raptors. Indiana pushed the tempo in the preseason by averaging 107.2 ppg under new head coach Nate McMillan, while newly acquired point guard Jeff Teague put up 13 ppg in the preseason. The Pacers have won four of their past five season openers, while capturing each of the previous four matchups with the Mavericks since 2014.

Pistons at Raptors (-7 ½, 195) – 7:05 PM EST

Both these teams were knocked out by the champion Cavaliers in the playoffs last season as Detroit was swept by Cleveland in the opening round. The Pistons start this campaign without point guard Reggie Jackson, who is sidelined with a knee injury for at least a month. Detroit posted its first winning season since 2008 with a 44-38 mark in 2016, but won only 18 games away from the Palace of Auburn Hills. Last season, the Pistons jumped out to an impressive 5-1 SU/ATS record with all five wins coming in the underdog role.

The Raptors’ roster pretty remained intact with Bismack Biyombo being the lone departure to Orlando in the offseason. Toronto finished with one fewer victory than Cleveland for the top seed in the Eastern Conference before bowing out to the Cavaliers in the conference finals. The Raptors owned the second-best home record in the East at 32-9, while Toronto started 5-0 SU/ATS last season and eclipsed the 100-point mark in each of those wins.

Wolves at Grizzlies (-2, 199) – 8:05 PM EST

Minnesota is expected to turn heads in the Western Conference this season after hiring Tom Thibodeau as head coach and president of basketball operations. Thibodeau took the Bulls to five straight playoff appearances from 2011 through 2015 as he looks to lead Minnesota to its first postseason berth since 2004. The Wolves closed last season winning four of their final five games to finish at 29-53, while compiling a 6-3 SU and 7-2 ATS record in their last nine road contests.

The Grizzlies flamed out in the opening round of the playoffs last season in a four-game sweep to the Spurs. Memphis is back to full health with center Marc Gasol and point guard Mike Conley in the lineup after each missed the final few months of 2016 due to injury. How bad was it for Memphis down the stretch? The Grizzlies made the playoffs in spite of losing 10 of their final 11 games to finish at 42-40, while compiling a 26-15 record at FedEx Forum. Memphis and Minnesota split four matchups last season as all four games eclipsed the OVER.

Thunder (-8 ½, 208) at 76ers – 8:05 PM EST

The post-Kevin Durant era begins in Oklahoma City as Russell Westbrook is the leader of this Thunder squad moving forward. OKC re-tooled its team heading into this season as the Thunder are not the favorites to win the Northwest after a 55-27 campaign and a Western Conference finals appearance. The Thunder won nine of 15 road games last season against Eastern Conference opponents, including a 111-97 victory at Philadelphia as 15 ½-point favorites.

Philadelphia won a grand total of 10 games last season, while losing 30 of its first 31 contests. The 76ers grabbed LSU phenom Ben Simmons with the top pick in the draft, but he’s sidelined with a broken bone in his right foot. Philadelphia began last season with a 2-9-1 ATS record in its first 12 games as a home underdogs, while winning its first game in the home ‘dog role in January against Minnesota.

Rockets (-6 ½, 223) at Lakers – 10:35 PM EST

Mike D’Antoni makes his return to the bench, taking over as Rockets’ head coach following an unsuccessful stint as head man of the Lakers from 2012-2014. The Rockets put up ridiculous scoring numbers in the preseason by averaging 118.6 ppg, including four games of 120 points or more. Houston swept the four-game series from Los Angeles last season with every victory coming by double-digits. James Harden averaged 31.5 ppg in the four wins over the Lakers as the Rockets own a 6-0 SU/ATS record in the past six visits to Staples Center.

The Lakers begin a brand new era following Kobe Bryant’s retirement after last season’s disastrous 17-65 mark. Luke Walton came over from Golden State to become the head coach, while Los Angeles signed veterans Luol Deng and Timofey Mozgov to go along with emerging star D’Angelo Russell. The Lakers closed last season with four consecutive covers at Staples Center as Los Angeles seeks its first opening night win since upsetting the Clippers in 2013.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Monticello Raceway

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

Race 4 - Post: 1:56 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 65 - Purse:$3300 - SIX YEAR OLDS AND UNDER NW 2 PM
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 2 JL BILL 5/2
# 5 JOE SAYS GO 7/2
# 4 INTERMIX 8/1

JL BILL is the most respectable play in this race. Has the makings of a profitable play, averaging a rather good 71 TrackMaster Speed Rating. The panel of smart guys gives this race horse a nice chance to take this race, class rankings are tops in the field. Could be considered in this event if only for the respectable TrackMaster SR recorded in the most recent race. JOE SAYS GO - Cannot put a finger on it, but strongly consider this gelding for a wager. INTERMIX - The 68 average class statistic may give this gelding a distinct edge in the bunch.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero Race Track

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


Race 2 - Maiden Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $5750 Class Rating: 38

FOR NATIVE MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 120 LBS. CLASIFICADOS EN $3,500 Y DEBUTANTES ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $3,500.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 2 SALADO'SGIRLFRIEND 15/1

# 4 CORONADO BELLE 2/1

# 1 TWINS MIRACLE 3/1

SALADO'SGIRLFRIEND looks competitive to best this group of horses and is a very strong value-based wager given the 15/1 line. Has been running well lately and will almost certainly be on or close to the lead early on. Navarro has sharp numbers that point to this filly to be a strong contender. The class figure of today's race is much lower than her last race. CORONADO BELLE - This filly ought to be considered just off the earnings per start in dirt route events alone. Robles will most likely be able to get this filly to break out quickly in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Northfield Park

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

Race 10 - Post: 9:00 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 77 - Purse:$6800 - NON WINNERS $4000 IN LAST 5 STARTS THAT ARE N/W $40,000 IN 2016. NO. 9 STARTS FROM 2ND TIER NORTHFIELD
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 5 CAMART HANOVER 20/1
# 6 DOWN N DIRTY 8/1
# 2 WINTER CRUISE 9/2

The consensus today is that CAMART HANOVER is the one to beat and the payoff could be huge based on that 20/1 morning line. Cannot put a finger on it, but support this gelding for a wager. DOWN N DIRTY - Exhibits the look of a profitable play, averaging a nifty 78 TrackMaster Speed Rating. A formidable class horse shouldn't be be glossed over. With an avg class figure of 80 all signs say this is the one to beat. WINTER CRUISE - Could more than likely handle this group given the 79 TrackMaster Speed Rating recorded in his most recent race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Woodbine - Race #5 - Post: 8:47pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $16,000 Class Rating: 77

Rating:

#11 ME MORE (ML=4/1)
#4 FAINNE GEAL (ML=8/1)


ME MORE - I look for this horse to sit off the pace and make a solid move on the turn, cruising straight on to the wire. Ranked number one in earnings per race entered. Another indicator that this horse is classy. FAINNE GEAL - Have to make this gelding a solid contender; he comes off a nice effort on October 7th. Gelding is a few starts into a return here. Should give a big race today. This gelding is clearly on the improve with speed ratings of 62, 71, 77 last 3 out. Just look at his last speed fig, 77. That one looks good in this field.

Vulnerable Contenders: #10 ROCK RIVER (ML=5/2), #5 MEY'S FLASH (ML=5/1), #6 SPANISH BRIGADIER (ML=6/1),

ROCK RIVER - I predict bad luck for this horse in this contest. MEY'S FLASH - 5/1 is not offering enough value for any thoroughbred in a sprint of 6 1/2 furlongs that hasn't finished in the money in a short distance race recently. Difficult to bet on any horse to turn things around if there is no value to taking the risk. Finished eighth in his most recent performance with a run-of-the-mill speed figure. When I look at today's Equibase class figure, it would take an improved performance to win after that in this field. SPANISH BRIGADIER - Improbable that the rating he earned on Oct 14th will be enough in this race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Play #11 ME MORE to win if you can get odds of 3/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [4,11]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #1 - BELMONT PARK - 12:55 PM EASTERN POST

6.0 FURLONGS DIRT MAIDENS THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD $20,000.00 CLAIMING $29,000.00 PURSE

#4 TREE TOP LOVER
#2 AZAREL
#6 KOHLHASE
#5 FIELDING GOLD

#4 TREE TOP LOVER, a British-bred entry, is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this maiden field sprinting at today's distance of 6.0 furlongs on the dirt, has nice early speed abilities to compliment, and has produced a quartet of "POWER RUN BOARD HITS" in his last five starts. Jockey Irad Ortiz and Trainer David Jacobson send him to the post ... they've hit the board with an impressive 63% of their entries saddled as a team to date. #2 AZAREL, a 5-1 shot, drops in class (-6), and comes off back-to-back "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in his last two outings, missing his "diploma" in his 2nd race back, by less than a length in a determined attempt to break his maiden.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Northfield: Wednesday 10/26 Analysis + Pick Four Ticket
By Jeremey Day

DRF

Race 8 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Jeremey’s $1 Pick Four Play:

1 with 1,7,9 with 1,2,9 with 1,3,9 = $27

Best Bet: IMA NUISANCE (6th)

Spot Play: CALLIT AS U SEEIT (7th)


Race 1

(5) WICKED WINDY went a big mile last week out of the eight-hole; short price. (3) KYLE ISAAC five-year-old has room to improve against a suspect bunch. (1) OH PLEASE lightly raced mare gets the best post and is just now back in racing shape.

Race 2

(1) SILVER CHIEF dominated at this level last week. (3) KINGOFTHEREIGNS freshman pacer faces older but has some upside. (7) ADMIRALS LADY REI should be able to hit the ticket with a smooth trip.

Race 3

(3) QUEEN OF RACING mare is 0 for her career but has been knocking on the door and will offer value. (5) ECHO'S ANNIE has been facing tougher. The filly will offer a low price; use caution. (2) RUGGED HEART well bred filly picks up a huge driver change.

Race 4

(2) PRISONER OF LOVE two-year-old makes his second start for new connections. The gelding finds a weak and inconsistent field. (3) FLYIN ORION is very inconsistent from week to week. A good effort puts him in the mix. (7) MARTYS VICTORY has hit the board in four straight. The pacer makes his first start in a new barn.

Race 5

(9) MOMA JEAN'S CROWN drops down in class and will offer a big price. (2) WASHINGTONIAN should be much closer turning for home; threat. (1) JAILHOUSE BRIDE trotting mare has been competitive against similar.

Race 6

(8) IMA NUISANCE pacing stallion takes a huge dropdown in class. (6) FRISKIEAFFAIR raced well last week but would need much more to beat the top choice. (2) MOST REMARKABLE has just been racing evenly; use underneath.

Race 7

In a field with few contenders, (2) CALLIT AS U SEEIT should be in line for an excellent trip up close. (3) JO JO'S JOURNEY raced really well off the scratch last week; big chance. (1) VICTORY CANDY MAN has room to improve third start back off a long layoff.

Race 8

(1) WIT AND WISDOM will be used very aggressively looking to drop and pop. (3) BETTOR DESIGN was much better last start after some dull efforts. (4) C C STORMEY had some sneaky late pace last week but needs more.

Race 9

(7) LADY EDITH filly is coming on strong late in the year; fires early. (9) EVANORA gets sent out for one of the top barns in the country. (1) SUPER LILY filly is very talented, but has question marks getting sent out for a provisional driver.

Race 10

(9) JIMMY RIP burned cash last week down in class. The seven-year-old will need a much better effort to score. (2) WINTER CRUISE will likely take heavy tote action because of the mile last week. The pacer is very inconsistent; use caution. (1) MORELAND FLASH has been sharp in two straight; threat.

Race 11

(3) SIMMY veteran trotter had no chance from the far outside post last week. The trotter is sharp and can score with a smooth trip. (1) CALLIING A VICTORY has been trotting faster than most of the field and gets the best post. (9) STARDUST MEMORIES has been facing tougher; threat.

Race 12

(1) P L ADDER picks up a significant driver change with the best starting post. (6) BETTOR'S DESTINY could be one of few threats to the top choice dropping in class for capable connections. (9) CMR WINDMACH can pace a good mile with a setup.

Race 13

(4) LOL KEN WIN takes a big drop in class with a top driver; short price. (3) TOO TALL TAMARAC probably needed a start over the track and has room to improve. (9) JUST HENRY had no excuse last week at this level; use underneath.

Race 14

(5) PATIENT I D raced well last week against a tougher field. (2) MYSTIC FLOWER just missed at this level last week. (3) SCREAMIN DREAMIN has just been racing evenly but drops down against softer.

Race 15

In a wide open race, (4) BUBBA SKINNER will offer a monster price making his second start for a new trainer. (3) IN THEORY picks up the top driver but has burned cash at this level before. (5) SANTA'S SPECIAL is good enough to beat this group with a decent setup.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Keeneland

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


Race 6 - Allowance - 8.5f on the Turf. Purse: $62000 Class Rating: 84

FOR FILLIES TWO YEARS OLD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF $24,600 AT A MILE OR OVER ON THE TURF ALLOWED 2 LBS. $21,000 AT A MILE OR OVER ALLOWED 4 LBS. IN THE EVENT THAT THIS RACE IS TAKEN OFF THE TURF IT WILL BE CONTESTED AT ONE MILE AND ONE-SIXTEENTH ON THE MAIN TRACK.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 1 PARTY BOAT 4/1

# 2 PRICE TOO HIGH 3/1

# 8 SENORA ACERO 5/1

I think PARTY BOAT is a very strong choice. She has garnered very good numbers under today's conditions and will probably fare well versus this group. She has been racing strongly lately while recording solid Equibase speed figs. The Equibase Speed Fig of 82 from her last affair looks formidable in here. PRICE TOO HIGH - Going in a turf route race gives this filly a decent shot. Has recorded solid speed figures in turf route races in the past.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Northfield: Wednesday 10/26 Analysis + Pick Four Ticket
By Jeremey Day

DRF

Race 8 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Jeremey’s $1 Pick Four Play:

1 with 1,7,9 with 1,2,9 with 1,3,9 = $27

Best Bet: IMA NUISANCE (6th)

Spot Play: CALLIT AS U SEEIT (7th)


Race 1

(5) WICKED WINDY went a big mile last week out of the eight-hole; short price. (3) KYLE ISAAC five-year-old has room to improve against a suspect bunch. (1) OH PLEASE lightly raced mare gets the best post and is just now back in racing shape.

Race 2

(1) SILVER CHIEF dominated at this level last week. (3) KINGOFTHEREIGNS freshman pacer faces older but has some upside. (7) ADMIRALS LADY REI should be able to hit the ticket with a smooth trip.

Race 3

(3) QUEEN OF RACING mare is 0 for her career but has been knocking on the door and will offer value. (5) ECHO'S ANNIE has been facing tougher. The filly will offer a low price; use caution. (2) RUGGED HEART well bred filly picks up a huge driver change.

Race 4

(2) PRISONER OF LOVE two-year-old makes his second start for new connections. The gelding finds a weak and inconsistent field. (3) FLYIN ORION is very inconsistent from week to week. A good effort puts him in the mix. (7) MARTYS VICTORY has hit the board in four straight. The pacer makes his first start in a new barn.

Race 5

(9) MOMA JEAN'S CROWN drops down in class and will offer a big price. (2) WASHINGTONIAN should be much closer turning for home; threat. (1) JAILHOUSE BRIDE trotting mare has been competitive against similar.

Race 6

(8) IMA NUISANCE pacing stallion takes a huge dropdown in class. (6) FRISKIEAFFAIR raced well last week but would need much more to beat the top choice. (2) MOST REMARKABLE has just been racing evenly; use underneath.

Race 7

In a field with few contenders, (2) CALLIT AS U SEEIT should be in line for an excellent trip up close. (3) JO JO'S JOURNEY raced really well off the scratch last week; big chance. (1) VICTORY CANDY MAN has room to improve third start back off a long layoff.

Race 8

(1) WIT AND WISDOM will be used very aggressively looking to drop and pop. (3) BETTOR DESIGN was much better last start after some dull efforts. (4) C C STORMEY had some sneaky late pace last week but needs more.

Race 9

(7) LADY EDITH filly is coming on strong late in the year; fires early. (9) EVANORA gets sent out for one of the top barns in the country. (1) SUPER LILY filly is very talented, but has question marks getting sent out for a provisional driver.

Race 10

(9) JIMMY RIP burned cash last week down in class. The seven-year-old will need a much better effort to score. (2) WINTER CRUISE will likely take heavy tote action because of the mile last week. The pacer is very inconsistent; use caution. (1) MORELAND FLASH has been sharp in two straight; threat.

Race 11

(3) SIMMY veteran trotter had no chance from the far outside post last week. The trotter is sharp and can score with a smooth trip. (1) CALLIING A VICTORY has been trotting faster than most of the field and gets the best post. (9) STARDUST MEMORIES has been facing tougher; threat.

Race 12

(1) P L ADDER picks up a significant driver change with the best starting post. (6) BETTOR'S DESTINY could be one of few threats to the top choice dropping in class for capable connections. (9) CMR WINDMACH can pace a good mile with a setup.

Race 13

(4) LOL KEN WIN takes a big drop in class with a top driver; short price. (3) TOO TALL TAMARAC probably needed a start over the track and has room to improve. (9) JUST HENRY had no excuse last week at this level; use underneath.

Race 14

(5) PATIENT I D raced well last week against a tougher field. (2) MYSTIC FLOWER just missed at this level last week. (3) SCREAMIN DREAMIN has just been racing evenly but drops down against softer.

Race 15

In a wide open race, (4) BUBBA SKINNER will offer a monster price making his second start for a new trainer. (3) IN THEORY picks up the top driver but has burned cash at this level before. (5) SANTA'S SPECIAL is good enough to beat this group with a decent setup.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Charles Town - Race #8 - Post: 10:15pm - Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,000 Class Rating: 75

Rating:

#11 INDUSTRY LEADER (ML=3/1)
#6 HARDENED WILDCAT (ML=7/2)


INDUSTRY LEADER - Was in a $7,500 Claiming race at Parx Racing last time out. That race had a class number of 87 and he is moving down in today's race. A certain strong challenger. Gelding took a little vacation, but has been racing into shape. HARDENED WILDCAT - It looks like Batista had to be in the know about this gelding on Oct 7th when riding him for the initial time. Back on again today. I like to wager on this handicapping angle, a racer coming back off a sharp contest within the last 30 days. I like this gelding. Has the uppermost earnings per start in this event. I think that a sprinter coming off a layoff will usually run his best in the 3rd or 4th start back.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 THE REVEREND JAMES (ML=5/2), #5 EMPOWERING FORCE (ML=4/1), #12 TENS WILD (ML=9/2),

THE REVEREND JAMES - Tough to bet on a horse that loses so frequently. Speed kills. Plenty of speed in this affair compromises this animal's efforts. EMPOWERING FORCE - The Brain always warns me to keep my distance from ponies in sprint races that haven't hit the board in short distance contests recently. Tough to bet on any mount like this that didn't finish in the money after the long turnout and comes right back. This horse just hasn't looked sharp of late. TENS WILD - Didn't look so good last time. Probably won't do much running today. Should be difficult for this horse to beat this field off of that last speed figure. Unlikely to improve enough to run a figure anywhere near today's class rating, so put him on the likely underpriced contenders list.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Have to go with #11 INDUSTRY LEADER on the win end if we get at least 7/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [6,11]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

11 with 6 with [7,9,12] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Wednesday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Belmont Park (2nd) May Flowers, 4-1
(4th) My Fair Lily, 3-1


Charles Town (3rd) Sailaway, 3-1
(4th) Tipasa, 3-1


Delta Downs (6th) Ringneckdove, 8-1
(8th) Customary, 6-1


Finger Lakes (4th) The Giant Is Lit, 4-1
(7th) Underthemoonlight, 6-1


Gulfstream Park West (3rd) English Maneuver, 7-2
(5th) Little United, 6-1


Hawthorne (2nd) Media Forecast, 4-1
(5th) Pink Bubble, 4-1


Indiana Grand (6th) Check Or a Wreck, 8-1
(7th) Gingermore, 4-1


Keeneland (3rd) Lady of Opinion, 6-1
(4th) Doxology, 7-2


Mountaineer (4th) Lions Summit, 4-1
(6th) Plunder, 5-1


Penn National (2nd) Honor Achieved, 3-1
(5th) Tattersail, 9-2


Remington Park (2nd) Morongo, 3-1
(7th) Sheza Prize, 9-2


Woodbine (3rd) For U Ruth, 3-1
(7th) Forest Castle, 3-1