Wednesday's College Action
By Judd Hall
Wednesday’s always been called “hump day” for about as long as I can remember. This time around though, it takes on a little more meaning. Four teams are either coming off of, or not far removed from, disappointing defeats.
Now these four clubs get to square off against some less than stellar competition. Will that help or hurt these top teams? Let’s find out…
Kansas at Iowa State
The Jayhawks all of the sudden appear to be snake-bitten when playing away from home. Kansas (24-3 straight up, 13-11-1 against the spread) has gone 1-3 SU and 0-4 ATS in its last four road contests this season.
KU’s most recent setback was a lackluster 61-60 outing at Oklahoma State as a 10 ½-point road “chalk” on Feb. 23. The ‘Hawks couldn’t shoot effective from beyond the arch versus the Cowboys, making just two of 11 three-point shots. Kansas’s top scorer that night, Darell Jackson, had 16 points, but a season high five turnovers.
Iowa State (14-13 SU, 10-10 ATS) continues its downhill slide by losing, 76-64, in Lubbock to the Red Raiders as a 9 ½-point road ‘dog. The defeat dropped the Cyclones down to 1-5 SU and 2-4 ATS in their last six contests. And they’re on a 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS run in their last seven road fixtures.
The Cyclones have played strong in Ames this year, going 12-4 SU and 5-4 ATS. ISU has seen the ‘under’ go on a 3-1 run in its last four home matches.
One thing working in Kansas’s favor is it rarely loses back-to-back games since Bill Self became head coach in 2003. The Jayhawks are 16-6 SU and 9-9-1 ATS when following up a defeat during Self’s tenure in Lawrence. The ‘under’ has posted a 11-7-1 mark in that time as well.
The Jayhawks are 12-point road favorites with the total posted at 134 by Las Vegas Sports Consultants.
ESPN will be broadcasting this clash, starting at 7:00 pm EDT.
Tulsa at Memphis
Things are going well for the Golden Hurricane right now, winning four in a row both SU and ATS. Ben Uzoh got Tulsa (14-9 SU, 9-9-1 ATS) on its way by scoring 26 points, while nailing six of eight shots from beyond the three-point line in a 77-58 win over Presbyterian on Feb. 23.
Memphis (26-1 SU, 12-12-3 ATS) should be done licking its wounds after losing to the Vols last Saturday as a six-point home favorite, 66-62. Of course, you shouldn’t win if you only hit eight of 17 shots from the charity strip like the Tigers did. It was the third game in its last four for Memphis that it failed to cover the line.
The Tigers have controlled the recent head-to-head series with Tulsa, going 5-0 SU and 3-2 ATS in their last five meetings. The ‘under’ has cashed in the last three games.
Memphis has seen the ‘under’ go 4-1 in its past five home tilts. The Golden Hurricane have seen the ‘over’ post a 6-2 record in their last eight road tests. However, they’ve seen the ‘under’ hit in three straight games.
LVSC has opened the line for this game with the Tigers as 19-point home favorites.
Georgia Tech at Duke
The Yellow Jackets’ long season continued last Saturday as they lost to Virginia Tech as four-point road underdogs, 92-84. Georgia Tech (11-14 SU, 10-13 ATS) was relatively close to the Hokies in all the major statistical categories for this matchup, except for one: the rebound battle, which Va Tech won 39-24.
Duke (23-3 SU, 14-9-2 ATS) snapped out of its two-game losing skid on Feb. 23 by dominating the Red Storm as a 23-point home favorite, 86-56. Brian Zoubek paced the Blue Devils by scoring 11 points and 13 boards. Zoubek was just one of five Dukies that were double-digit scorers. This was the first time in five games the Devils were able to cover the spread.
The Blue Devils are 4-0 SU and ATS when facing off with the Ramblin’ Wreck in their last four showdowns. The ‘under’ is on a 6-0 run in the rivalry.
Duke is 14-0 SU and 9-2-2 ATS in its matches at Cameron Indoor Stadium this season.
LVSC has opened with the Blue Devils as 15 ½-point home favorites with the total coming in at 162.
Tip-off for this contest is slated at 9:00 pm EDT with ESPN broadcasting nationally.
West Virginia at DePaul
The Mountaineers bounced back nicely as 11½-point home favorites against Providence, 80-53, last Saturday. West Virginia’s (19-8 SU, 11-9-1 ATS) gone 4-1-1 in its last six games against the number. Joe Alexander picked it up for WVU against the Friars, scoring 21 points with seven rebounds and three assists.
DePaul (10-16 SU, 12-11 SU) is teetering on not even making the Big East tournament after falling to the Pirates as a four-point road ‘dog, 73-71 on Feb. 23. It was the Blue Demons’ seventh defeat in their last eight contests. However, they’ve covered the spread in three of their last four tilts. And the ‘under’ is on a 4-1 run right now as well.
West Virginia won the only meeting between these two programs…a 64-52 decision where it was a 5½-point road “chalk,” while seeing the combined score go ‘under’ the closing total of 124½.
The Mountaineers are 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS when favored on the road this season.
WVU is listed as a slight 3½-point road favorite with a total of 138.
This contest is set to start at 9:00 pm EDT with ESPN2 handling broadcasting duties.
vegasinsider.com
Wednesday's NBA Tip Sheet
By Brad Young
**Timberwolves at Raptors**
-Caesars Palace lists Toronto as a 13-point home ‘chalk’ over Minnesota, with the total set at 195 ½. This contest is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. ET.
-Minnesota (12-43 straight up, 26-28 against the spread) snapped a two-game SU losing skid by beating Utah Tuesday as a seven-point home underdog, 111-100. The combined 211 points toppled the 200-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 4-1 the past five games.
-The Timberwolves are just 2-23 SU and 13-12 ATS on the road, with the ‘under’ going 15-8. Minnesota has been dropping those affairs by an average score of 102-92.
-Toronto (31-24 SU, 31-23 ATS) improved to 4-1 SU and ATS the past five games after upending Indiana Monday as a three-point road favorite, 102-98. The combined 200 points went ‘under’ the 207 ½-point closing total, ending a string of four straight ‘over’ outings.
-The Raptors sport a 17-11 SU and ATS home ledger, winning those affairs by an average score of 101-95.
-Toronto has dominated this series with Minnesota recently, going 5-0 SU and ATS after prevailing February 10 as a six-point road favorite, 105-82. The combined 187 points went ‘under’ the 193 ½-point closing total.
**Kings at Hawks**
-Caesars Palace installed Atlanta as a 3½-point home favorite over Sacramento, with the total listed at 203. This game is slated to start at 7:05 p.m. ET.
-Sacramento (26-30 SU, 30-25 ATS) has dropped consecutive contests after Tuesday’s setback to Miami as a one-point road ‘chalk,’ 107-86. The combined 193 points went ‘under’ the 203 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ cash the second game in a row.
-The Kings are now 9-20 SU and 14-14 ATS away from home, dropping those games by an average score of 103-97.
-Atlanta (23-32 SU, 26-27 ATS) has dropped back-to-back outings SU after falling to San Antonio Monday as a 12-point road underdog, 89-74. The combined 163 points never seriously threatened the 187-point closing total. The Hawks had covered consecutive contests before facing the Spurs.
-Atlanta is 16-11 SU and 15-11 ATS at home, prevailing by an average score of 100-97.
-Sacramento is 4-1 SU and ATS the last five meetings with Atlanta after prevailing Feb. 20 as a seven-point home ‘chalk,’ 119-107. The combined 226 points soared ‘over’ the 200 ½-point closing total.
**Bulls at Pacers**
-Caesars Palace opened Indiana as a 1½-point home favorite over Chicago, with the total set at 208. This matchup is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. ET.
-Chicago (22-34 SU, 24-32 ATS) is currently mired in a two-game SU losing skid after Monday’s setback to Dallas as a 9 ½-point road underdog, 102-94. The combined 196 points landed directly on the closing total, ending a string of three consecutive ‘over’ outings.
-The Bulls are 10-20 SU and 14-16 ATS away from home, with the ‘over’ going 16-13. Chicago has been losing those games by an average score of 98-94.
-Indiana (22-35 SU, 26-31 ATS) dropped to 1-4 SU and ATS its last five games after falling to Toronto Monday as a three-point home underdog, 102-98. The combined 200 points went ‘under’ the 207 ½-point closing total, enabling the ‘under’ to cash the second straight outing.
-The Pacers sport an 11-17 SU and 13-15 ATS home record, with the ‘over’ going 15-11. Indiana has been losing its home affairs by an average score of 105-103.
-Chicago is 5-2 SU and ATS the past seven meetings with Indiana after prevailing Jan. 23 as a four-point home ‘chalk,’ 108-95. The combined 203 points slithered ‘under’ the 203-point closing total, enabling the ‘under’ to improve to 3-1 the last four meetings.
-Chicago center Joakim Noah (ankle) and guard Chris Duhon (undisclosed) are ‘questionable’ against the Pacers.
**Magic at Sixers**
-Las Vegas Sports Consultants installed Orlando as a two-point road ‘chalk’ over Philadelphia, with the total listed at 203½. This game is scheduled to tipoff at 7:05 p.m. ET.
-Orlando (37-22 SU, 36-21 ATS) has recorded three consecutive victories SU and ATS after cruising past New Jersey Tuesday as a 6 ½-point road favorite, 102-92. The combined 194 points went ‘under’ the 202 ½-point closing total, enabling the ‘under’ to occur the second game in a row.
-The Magic are now 21-11 SU and 22-10 ATS on the road, with the ‘over’ going 17-14. Orlando has been winning those affairs by an average score of 105-102.
-Philadelphia (25-32 SU, 29-25 ATS) has alternated SU and ATS wins and losses its last five games after slipping past Miami in overtime Saturday as a two-point road underdog, 101-96. The combined 197 points toppled the 193 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ cash the fourth consecutive contest.
-The Sixers are 15-14 SU and 15-12 ATS on their home court, winning those matchups by an average score of 96-92.
-Orlando is 4-0 SU and 2-2 ATS the last four meetings with Philadelphia after winning Feb. 22 as a seven-point home favorite, 115-99. The combined 214 points eclipsed the 203 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 5-1 the last six games in this series.
-Philadelphia center Samuel Dalembert (quad) is ‘questionable’ versus the Magic, while guard/forward Rodney Carney (foot) and forward Jason Smith are ‘probable.’
**Bobcats at Knicks**
-Caesars Palace lists New York as a 5½-point home favorite over Charlotte, with the total set at 197. This game is scheduled to begin at 7:35 p.m. ET.
-Charlotte (19-37 SU, 22-32 ATS) dropped to 0-3 SU and 0-2-1 ATS its last three games after Saturday’s setback to Washington as a 7 ½-point road underdog, 110-95. The combined 205 points toppled the 191 ½-point closing total, enabling the ‘over’ to improve to 3-1 the previous four outings.
-The Bobcats have struggled to a 4-20 SU and 7-16 ATS road record, with the ‘over’ going 15-9. Charlotte has been losing those contests by an average score of 104-92.
-New York (17-39 SU, 27-28 ATS) has alternated SU and ATS wins and losses its last four games after getting roughed up by Toronto Sunday as a 12-point road underdog, 115-92. The combined 207 points eclipsed the 200-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ cash the seventh straight matchup.
-The Knicks are 11-17 SU and 12-16 ATS at Madison Square Garden, dropping those affairs by an average score of 99-95.
-Charlotte is 6-2 SU and 7-1 ATS the past eight outings with New York after prevailing Dec. 21 as a 5 ½-point home favorite, 105-95. The combined 200 points eclipsed the 192 ½-point closing total, ending consecutive ‘under’ outings.
-Charlotte forward Gerald Wallace (head) is expected to miss this matchup.
**Cavaliers at Celtics**
-LVSC opened Boston as a 7½-point home ‘chalk’ over Cleveland, with the total set at 193. This matchup is slated to start at 7:35 p.m. ET.
-Cleveland (32-25 SU, 26-31 ATS) fell to Milwaukee Tuesday night as a 1 ½-point road ‘chalk,’ 105-102, while the combined 207 points went ‘over’ the 196-point closing total.
-The Cavaliers are now 15-15 SU and 17-13 ATS away from home, dropping those affairs by an average score of 97-94.
-Boston (43-12 SU, 32-20 ATS) is riding a modest two-game SU and ATS winning streak after routing the Los Angeles Clippers Monday as a nine-point road favorite, 104-76. The combined 180 points went ‘under’ the 195 1/2-point closing total.
-The Celtics are 23-4 SU and 16-10 ATS on their home court, with the ‘under’ going 14-11. Boston has been winning those affairs by an average score of 100-87.
-Cleveland is 2-1 SU and ATS this season against Boston after winning Feb. 5 as a three-point home ‘chalk,’ 114-113. The combined 227 points soared past the 186 ½-point closing total, enabling the ‘over’ to improve to 4-1 the last five games in this series.
-Boston forward/center Brian Scalabrine (groin) is ‘questionable’ against the Cavs.
**Suns at Hornets**
-Caesars Palace opened New Orleans as a 3 ½-point home ‘chalk’ over Phoenix, with the total listed at 210. This game is scheduled to begin at 8:05 p.m. ET.
-Phoenix (39-18 SU, 25-30 ATS) has alternated SU and ATS wins and losses its last five games after beating Memphis Tuesday as an 11-point road favorite, 127-113. The combined 240 points soared ‘over’ the 216-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 5-1 the previous six games.
-The Suns are now 18-10 SU and 14-12 ATS on the road, winning those affairs by an average score of 108-104.
-New Orleans (37-18 SU, 33-22 ATS) has dropped its last three outings SU and ATS after Monday’s setback to Washington as a 10 ½-point home ‘chalk,’ 95-92. The combined 187 points went ‘under’ the 194 ½-point closing total.
-The Hornets are now 18-10 SU and 15-13 ATS at home, with the ‘over’ going 16-12. New Orleans has been winning its home endeavors by an average score of 100-94.
-The Hornets have won the last three meetings with Phoenix SU and the past five outings ATS after prevailing Feb. 6 in overtime as a four-point road underdog, 132-130. The combined 262 points soared ‘over’ the 214-point closing total.
-New Orleans guard Morris Peterson (back) is ‘questionable’ against the Suns.
**Pistons at Jazz**
-Caesars Palace opened Utah as a one-point home favorite over Detroit, with the total set at 198. This contest is scheduled to start at 9:05 p.m. ET.
-Detroit (42-15 SU, 33-23 ATS) has strung together three consecutive SU and ATS victories after holding off Denver Monday as a two-point road underdog, 98-93. The combined 191 points went ‘under’ the 207-point closing total, ending three straight ‘over’ outings.
-The Piston are now 20-10 SU and 16-13 ATS on the road, with the ‘over’ going 17-13. Detroit has been winning those games by an average score of 97-93.
-Utah (36-21 SU, 29-26 ATS) hits the court for the first time since Tuesday’s setback to Minnesota as a seven-point road ‘chalk,’ 111-100. The combined 211 points eclipsed the 200-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 3-1 the past four games.
-The Jazz are 24-3 SU and 17-8 ATS on their home court, winning those games by an average score of 107-95.
-Utah is 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS the previous five meetings with Detroit after winning the lone encounter this season Nov. 25 as a one-point road favorite, 103-93. The combined 196 points eclipsed the 189 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ occur the fourth consecutive contest in this series.
-Utah guard Jason Hart (back), center Jarron Collins (flu) and forward Andrei Kirilenko (flu) are ‘questionable’ against the Pistons.
**Nuggets at Sonics**
-There is no overnight line or total on this contest due to various injuries. This game is scheduled to begin at 10:05 p.m. ET. Seattle forward Donyell Marshall (flu) is ‘probable’ against the Nuggets, while guard Earl Watson (respiratory) and guard/forward Damien Wilkins (wrist) are expected to miss this matchup. Forward Chris Wilcox (flu) is ‘doubtful.’
-Denver (33-23 SU, 28-28 ATS) enters this contest stumbling through a three-game SU and ATS losing skid after falling to Detroit Monday as a two-point home favorite, 98-93. The combined 191 points never seriously threatened the 207-point closing total, ending a string of three straight ‘over’ outings.
-The Nuggets maintain an 11-16 SU and ATS road record, with the ‘over’ going 16-11. Denver has been dropping those contests by an average score of 109-105.
-Seattle (15-41 SU, 28-27 ATS) fell to Golden State Tuesday night as a 14 ½-point road underdog, 105-99, while the combined 204 points never seriously threatened the 222-point closing total. The ‘under’ has cashed the last four games for the Sonics.
-Seattle is 10-19 SU and 16-13 ATS at home, with the ‘under’ going 18-11. The Sonics are dropping their home endeavors by an average score of 102-98.
-Denver is 4-1 SU and ATS the previous five meetings with Seattle after winning the lone encounter this season Oct. 31 as an 11-point home ‘chalk,’ 120-103. The combined 223 points toppled the 217-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 3-1 the past four meetings in this series.
**Blazers at Clippers**
-There is no overnight line or total on this matchup due to various injuries. This contest is slated to start at 10:35 p.m. ET.
-Portland (29-27 SU, 27-29 ATS) dropped to 1-4 SU and 0-5 ATS its last five games after Sunday’s setback to Boston as a 5½-point home underdog, 112-102. The combined 214 points soared ‘over’ the 186-point closing total, ending back-to-back ‘under’ outings.
-The Blazers are 8-19 SU and 12-15 ATS on the road, with the ‘under’ going 15-11. Portland has been dropping those road endeavors by an average score of 99-93.
-Los Angeles (19-35 SU, 24-30 ATS) enters this matchup riding a two-game SU and ATS losing skid after getting roughed up by Boston Monday as a nine-point home underdog, 104-76. The combined 180 points failed to topple the 195 ½-point closing total, enabling the ‘under’ to improve to 4-1 the past five games.
-The Clippers are now 11-18 SU and 13-16 ATS at Staples Center, with the ‘under’ going 18-11. Los Angeles has been dropping those affairs by an average score of 97-94.
-The Clippers are 6-1 SU and 5-2 ATS the previous seven meetings with Portland, but this is the first meeting this season.
-Portland forward Brandon Roy (ankle) is expected to miss this matchup with the Clippers. Los Angeles center Chris Kaman (back) is ‘doubtful’ versus the Blazers.
vegasinsider.com.
Mavericks sign Magloire as backup center to replace Diop
February 27, 2008
DALLAS (AP) -The Dallas Mavericks signed free agent Jamaal Magloire to add depth at center that's been missing since DeSagana Diop went to New Jersey in the trade for Jason Kidd.
Magloire should be available for practice Wednesday and could play as early as Thursday when Dallas visits San Antonio.
``We were concerned about our backup center spot after the trade and this will provide us some much needed depth,'' said Donnie Nelson, the president of basketball operations.
The 6-foot-11 center was waived by the Nets on Friday and cleared waivers Tuesday.
Magloire, 29, played less than 11 minutes per game this season with the Nets. In eight seasons, he's averaged 8.7 points and 7.3 rebounds. In 2005-06 in Milwaukee, his last season as a regular starter, he averaged 9.2 points and 9.5 rebounds.
Magloire will likely back up Erick Dampier.
Pick ‘n’ roll: Wednesday’s best NBA bets
COVERS.com
Chicago at Indiana
The Indiana Pacers are 13 games below .500 for the first time since 1992 and two of their best players are out indefinitely with injuries. Jamaal Tinsley and Jermaine O’Neal both have knee problems and it hasn't helped while the Pacers have lost 12 of the last 15 games.
Tinsley, who is averaging 11.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, was expected back last week. It turns out that he has yet to resume practice. O’Neal was originally meant to miss just two weeks, but there have been persistent rumors that he could actually miss the rest of the season.
The loss of those two players, and the uncertainty surrounding their return, has been a disaster for the Pacers. They have lost and failed to cover in four of their last five games and were hammered 108-95 the last time they faced the Chicago Bulls (Jan 23).
Cleveland at Boston
A Western swing that started with Boston’s first three-game losing streak ended with two convincing wins and now the Celtics head home with renewed confidence. That could spell trouble for the new-look Cavs as they try to find their feet.
Cleveland traded for four new players last Thursday and they were all thrown into the mix in games against Memphis and Milwaukee this week. But playing the Celts in Boston is a much tougher proposition and they have lost only four of 27 games there this season.
In addition, the Celtics have covered the spread in three of their last four games at TD Banknorth Garden, where they already beat Cleveland 80-70 this season.
Charlotte at New York
The Bobcats will be without their leading scorer when they travel to Madison Square Garden Wednesday night. Gerald Wallace will miss at least two weeks after suffering a concussion in a loss to Sacramento last Friday night.
It’s the fourth concussion in four seasons for the veteran forward, who is averaging 20.6 points per game. He is expected to be out for at least two weeks with the blow.
The injury is a huge loss to a Charlotte side that is already struggling. The Bobcats have lost 10 of their last 11 games, covering the spread just twice over that time. Jared Dudley, who is averaging just six points per game this season, will replace Wallace in the lineup.
Sacramento Kings vs. Atlanta Hawks
- The Sacramento Kings and the Atlanta Hawks will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Philips Arena.
The Kings were defeated 107-86 by the Heat last time out, as 1.5-point underdogs. The combined 193 points fell UNDER the posted total of 203.
Spencer Hawes shot 7-for-10 from the field with 16 points in a losing effort for the Kings.
The Hawks were defeated 89-74 by the Spurs last time mout, as 12-point road underdogs. The 163 points were well UNDER the posted total of 187.
Joe Johnson had 17 points, five rebounds and five assists in the loss.
Current streak:
Sacramento has lost 2 straight games.
Atlanta has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Sacramento: 26-30 SU, 30-26 ATS
Atlanta: 23-32 SU, 27-28 ATS
Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Dallas are 4-6
After playing Miami are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4
Atlanta most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 1-9
Before playing New York are 0-10
After playing San Antonio are 5-5
After a loss are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
Sacramento is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Sacramento's last 6 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Sacramento's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 6 games when playing at home against Sacramento
Atlanta is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta's last 9 games
Atlanta is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 games when playing at home against Sacramento
Next up:
Sacramento at Dallas, Friday, February 29
Atlanta home to New York, Friday, February 29
Chicago Bulls vs. Indiana Pacers
- The Chicago Bulls and the Indiana Pacers will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Conseco Fieldhouse.
The Bulls lost 102-94 to the Mavericks last time out, as 9.5-point road underdogs. The 196 points were a PUSH against the posted total of 196.
Ben Gordon scored a team-high 25 points in the loss for the Bulls.
The Pacers fell 102-98 to the Raptors on Monday, as 2.5-point underdogs at home. The 200 points fell UNDER the posted total of 207.5.
Danny Granger and Marquis Daniels tossed in 20 points apiece in the loss.
Current streak:
Chicago has lost 2 straight games.
Indiana has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Chicago: 22-34 SU, 24-32 ATS
Indiana: 22-35 SU, 26-30-1 ATS
Chicago most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Washington are 5-5
After playing Dallas are 5-5
After a loss are 6-4
Indiana most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Toronto are 5-5
After playing Toronto are 7-3
After a loss are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Chicago's last 8 games on the road
Chicago is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Chicago is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games
Chicago is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Indiana
Indiana is 20-2 SU in its last 22 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indiana's last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 6 games when playing at home against Chicago
Next up:
Chicago home to Washington, Friday, February 29
Indiana at Toronto, Friday, February 29
Orlando Magic vs. Philadelphia 76ers
- The Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Wachovia Center.
Rashard Lewis scored 25 points with six rebounds in leading the Magic to a 102-92 win over the Nets last time out. The Magic covered the 6.5-point spread, while the 194 points were UNDER the night's posted total of 202.5.
Hedo Turkoglu also scored 25 points for the Magic, and Dwight Howard chipped in with 17.
The 76ers controlled the overtime session and got past the Heat 101-96 last time out, as slight 2-point underdogs. The 197 points made it OVER the posted total of 193.
Andre Iguodala scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for a double-double in the win. Andre Miller also scored 24 points for the 76ers.
Current streak:
Orlando has won 3 straight games.
Team records:
Orlando: 37-22 SU, 37-21-1 ATS
Philadelphia: 25-32 SU, 29-27-1 ATS
Orlando most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing New York are 8-2
After playing New Jersey are 6-4
After a win are 6-4
Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Golden State are 4-6
After playing Miami are 4-6
After a win are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
Orlando is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Philadelphia
Orlando is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Orlando is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Orlando's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Orlando
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games
Next up:
Orlando home to New York, Saturday, March 1
Philadelphia at Golden State, Friday, February 29
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Toronto Raptors
- The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Toronto Raptors will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Air Canada Centre.
Al Jefferson had 22 points and 10 boards on Tuesday to lead the Timberwolves to a 111-100 win over the Utah Jazz.
The Jazz had been favored by 7 points on the road in that contest, while the combined score went OVER the night's posted total (200.5).
Chris Bosh had 24 points with 10 rebounds for a double-double, in leading the Raptors to a 102-98 victory over the Pacers last time out. The Raptors covered the slight 2.5-point spread on the road, while the 200 points fell UNDER the posted total of 207.5.
Carlos Delfino scored 23 points for the Raptors, while T.J. Ford added 16 in the win.
Current streak:
Toronto has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
Minnesota: 12-43 SU, 27-27-1 ATS
Toronto: 31-24 SU, 32-23 ATS
Minnesota most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Cleveland are 8-2
After playing Utah are 3-7
After a win are 2-8
Toronto most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Indiana are 5-5
After playing Indiana are 6-4
After a win are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games
Minnesota is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Minnesota's last 12 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 7 games when playing Toronto
Toronto is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Toronto's last 7 games at home
Toronto is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Minnesota
Next up:
Minnesota at Cleveland, Friday, February 29
Toronto home to Indiana, Friday, February 29
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics
- The Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at TD Banknorth Garden.
LeBron James led the Cavs with 35 points in their 105-102 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night.
The Cavs had been listed as 3.5-point favorites on the road in that contest, while the combined score went OVER the posted total (197).
Five players reached double-digit scoring in the Celtics 104-76 win over defeated the Clippers last time out. The Celtics easily covered the 9-point spread, while the 180 points were UNDER the posted total of 194.
Ray Allen led the way with 15 points, four rebounds and seven assists, while Paul Pierce and James Posey added 17 apiece in the win.
Current streak:
Boston has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
Cleveland: 32-25 SU, 26-31 ATS
Boston: 43-12 SU, 33-20-2 ATS
Cleveland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Minnesota are 4-6
After playing Milwaukee are 5-5
After a loss are 9-1
Boston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Charlotte are 5-5
After playing LA Clippers are 2-8
After a win are 6-4
A few trends to consider:
Cleveland is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Boston
Cleveland is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games on the road
Cleveland is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston's last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Boston is 14-4 SU in its last 18 games when playing at home against Cleveland
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Boston's last 8 games at home
Next up:
Cleveland home to Minnesota, Friday, February 29
Boston home to Charlotte, Friday, February 29
Charlotte Bobcats vs. New York Knicks
- The Charlotte Bobcats and the New York Knicks will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Madison Square Garden.
The Bobcats were clawed apart 110-95 by the Wizards last time out, as 7.5-point road underdogs. The 205 points made it OVER the posted total of 192.
Jason Richardson had a game-high 25 points from 10-for-17 shooting from the field in the loss.
The Knicks lost to Toronto 115-92 as an 11.5-point underdog last time out. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (201.5).
Jamal Crawford led the Knicks with 26 points and Nate Robinson had 20 points and eight rebounds in the loss.
Current streak:
Charlotte has lost 3 straight games.
Team records:
Charlotte: 19-37 SU, 21-33-2 ATS
New York: 17-39 SU, 27-28-1 ATS
Charlotte most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-7
Before playing Boston are 6-4
After playing Washington are 3-7
After a loss are 2-8
New York most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Atlanta are 5-5
After playing Toronto are 2-8
After a loss are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
Charlotte is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Charlotte's last 6 games on the road
Charlotte is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
Charlotte is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 7 games at home
New York is 6-14 SU in its last 20 games at home
New York is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Charlotte
Next up:
Charlotte at Boston, Friday, February 29
New York at Atlanta, Friday, February 29
Phoenix Suns vs. New Orleans Hornets
- The Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Hornets will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at New Orleans Arena.
Steve Nash led the way with 25 points on Tuesday night as the Suns knocked off the Memphis Grizzlies by a final score of 127-113.
The Suns managed to cover the 11.5-point spread on the road in that contest, while the combined score went OVER the night's posted total (216.5).
The Hornets fell 95-92 to the Wizards last time out, as 10.5-point favorites at home. The combined 187 points fell UNDER the posted total of 194.
Chris Paul had 22 points with five rebounds and eight assists in the loss.
Current streak:
New Orleans has lost 3 straight games.
Team records:
Phoenix: 39-18 SU, 26-29-2 ATS
New Orleans: 37-18 SU, 32-22-1 ATS
Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing Philadelphia are 6-4
After playing Memphis are 8-2
After a win are 4-6
New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Utah are 2-8
After playing Washington are 5-5
After a loss are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
Phoenix is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Phoenix's last 7 games
Phoenix is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Phoenix's last 6 games on the road
New Orleans is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Phoenix
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Orleans's last 6 games when playing at home against Phoenix
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of New Orleans's last 11 games when playing Phoenix
New Orleans is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games at home
Next up:
Phoenix home to Philadelphia, Saturday, March 1
New Orleans home to Utah, Friday, February 29
Detroit Pistons vs. Utah Jazz
- The fans at EnergySolutions Arena will be treated to a game between the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz when they take their seats on Wednesday.
The Pistons picked up a hard-fought 98-93 win over the Nuggets on Monday. The Pistons won the game as a slight 1-point underdog, while the 191 points fell UNDER the posted total of 206.5.
Tayshaun Prince led the Pistons with 20 points, six rebounds and nine assists. Richard Hamilton and Chauncey Billups also had 20 points in the win.
Carlos Boozer had a game-high 34 points in Utah's 111-100 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.
The Jazz had been favored by 7 points on the road in that contest, while the combined score went OVER the night's posted total (200.5).
Current streak:
Detroit has won 3 straight games.
Team records:
Detroit: 42-15 SU, 33-23-1 ATS
Utah: 36-21 SU, 29-28 ATS
Detroit most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing LA Clippers are 8-2
After playing Denver are 5-5
After a win are 9-1
Utah most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing New Orleans are 7-3
After playing Minnesota are 5-5
After a loss are 8-2
A few trends to consider:
Detroit is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing Utah
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
Utah is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Detroit
Utah is 11-2 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Detroit
Next up:
Detroit at LA Clippers, Saturday, March 1
Utah at New Orleans, Friday, February 29
Denver Nuggets vs. Seattle SuperSonics
- If familiarity breeds contempt, there should be animosity aplenty on Wednesday when the Denver Nuggets and the Seattle SuperSonics meet at KeyArena.
The Nuggets lost 98-93 to the Pistons last time out, as 1-point underdogs at home. The 191 points fell UNDER the posted total of 206.5.
Allan Iverson scored a game-high 28 points, and Carmelo Anthony added 23 in a losing effort.
The SuperSonics were defeated 105-99 by the Warriors last time out, as 15-point underdogs. The combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 222.
Nick Collison scored 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds for a double-double in a losing effort.
Current streak:
Denver has lost 3 straight games.
Seattle has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Denver: 33-23 SU, 28-28 ATS
Seattle: 15-41 SU, 28-27-1 ATS
Denver most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing LA Clippers are 4-6
After playing Detroit are 4-6
After a loss are 6-4
Seattle most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Miami are 4-6
After playing Golden State are 4-6
After a loss are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
Denver is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Seattle
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Seattle
Denver is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Seattle
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Seattle
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Seattle's last 8 games
Seattle is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games when playing at home against Denver
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Seattle's last 11 games when playing Denver
Next up:
Denver home to LA Clippers, Friday, February 29
Seattle home to Miami, Friday, February 29
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Clippers
- The Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at STAPLES Center.
The Trail Blazers were defeated 96-83 by the Lakers on Tuesday, as 15.5-point underdogs. The combined 179 points fell UNDER the posted total of 202.
LaMarcus Aldridge shot 10-for-19 from the field with 24 points and four rebounds in the loss.
The Clippers were defeated 104-76 by the Celtics last time out, as 9-point underdogs. The 180 points were UNDER the posted total of 194.
Tim Thomas had 15 points with nine rebounds in a losing effort for the Clippers.
Current streak:
Portland has lost 3 straight games.
Los Angeles has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Portland: 29-28 SU, 28-29 ATS
Los Angeles: 19-35 SU, 24-30 ATS
Portland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing LA Lakers are 1-9
After playing LA Lakers are 5-5
After a loss are 4-6
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Denver are 5-5
After playing Boston are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Portland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games when playing LA Clippers
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Portland's last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Portland's last 14 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
LA Clippers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Portland
LA Clippers are 7-1 SU in their last 8 games when playing Portland
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of the LA Clippers last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 6 games at home
Next up:
Portland home to LA Lakers, Friday, February 29
LA Clippers at Denver, Friday, February 29
Cavaliers will try to topple Celtics
If LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers hope to return to the NBA Final this season then most likely they’ll have to get through the Boston Celtics sometime during their playoff run. Cleveland gets another warmup against the Celtics on Wednesday night, as they face Boston for the fourth time this season.
The Cavaliers are coming off a 105-102 upset loss to Milwaukee on Tuesday night. Cleveland was a 1.5-point road favorite in the loss. James led the Cavs with 35 points in the win, but he couldn’t match the Bucks’ Mo Williams, who scored a game-high 37 points. Wally Szczerbiak added 13 points for Cleveland, while Joe Smith and Damon Jones each had 12 points. Ben Wallace, in his second game in a Cavs uniform, chipped in with seven points and 11 rebounds. Cleveland was missing starting center Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who sat out the loss with a bad cold.
The Celtics last played on Monday when they flattened the Clippers 104-76 as a 9-point favorite. James Posey and Paul Pierce each had 17 points for Boston in the win, mainly because Doc Rivers decided to rest most of his starters in the fourth quarter. Ray Allen ended up with 15 points and seven assists, while Kevin Garnett added 11 points despite seeing the floor for only 23 minutes.
Cleveland is leading the season series so after taking two of three from the Celtics so far this year. In their last meeting, back on February 5, Cleveland edged Boston 114-113 as a 3-point favorite. Garnett missed that game for Boston, while James scored 33 points and just missed a triple-double with nine rebounds and 12 assists for Cleveland.
Boston’s lone win over Cleveland this season came in the previous matchup on December 2. Boston rolled over Cleveland 80-70 as a 15-point home favorite. The Celtics were so heavily favored because the Cavaliers played without James, who was sidelined with an injured finger. Allen led Boston with 20 points, while without James, Cleveland was led by Ilgauskas with 12 points and 13 rebounds.
The first time Boston and Cleveland clashed this season, on November 27, the Cavaliers defeated the Celtics 109-104 as a 3.5-point home underdog. James netted 38 points to go along with 13 assists in the upset, while Allen led Boston with 29 points. The favorite has failed to cover the spread all three times the Cavs and Celtics have squared off this season.
