Wednesday's Tip Sheet
By Chris David
Gamblers have 12 games to choose from on Wednesday, including a pair of solid non-conference battles
Let’s break ‘em down!
Game of the Night – Part I: Phoenix (47-23 SU, 32-35 ATS) at Boston (55-15 SU, 41-26 ATS)
Phoenix had its seven-game winning streak snapped Monday after losing in overtime to Detroit, 110-105. Despite the setback, the Suns still own an eye opening 22-5 record versus the Eastern Conference. Phoenix is still in the mix for the No. 1 seed in the West, but six road stops in the final 11 games will be tough sledding. After sweeping the Texas Triangle (San Antonio, Houston, Dallas), the Celtics have suffered back-to-back losses to the Hornets (113-106) and Sixers (95-90). In Monday’s loss to Philadelphia, Doc Rivers’ team was again outscored in the fourth quarter. Philadelphia (29-19) and New Orleans (32-17) both rallied past Boston en route to their come from behind victories.
Phoenix has won five straight games against Boston, including an 85-77 victory on Feb. 22 as a one-point home favorite. The ‘under’ has gone 3-2 during this stretch. Even if the Celtics fall to the Suns and perhaps the Hornets in an upcoming home tilt on Friday, fans shouldn’t be too concerned. Boston should pick up enough steam heading into the playoffs with nine of the final 10 games scheduled against non-playoff contenders.
The Celtics longest losing streak of the year has been three games and that’s only happened once. Ironically, it was the Suns who handed Boston its third loss in a row in the aforementioned battle on Feb. 22.
Game of the Night – Part II: New Orleans (47-21 SU, 43-25 ATS) at Cleveland (40-31 SU, 34-37 ATS)
The Hornets currently sit in the West’s top spot, but the young club embarks on a six-game road trip against the East this week. New Orleans will be playing their second game in two nights after facing Indiana on Monday. Byron Scott’s team has played well in back-to-back spots, going 11-3 SU and 9-4-1 ATS. A large part of the Hornets’ success has come from their play on the road, watching the team go 20-11 SU and 19-12 ATS outside of the Big Easy. Cleveland is 24-10 SU at home, but only 14-20 ATS. The ‘under’ is on a 4-1 run for the Cavaliers, but gamblers should be aware that the ‘over’ has gone 7-2-1 in the last 10 meetings between these two squads. New Orleans owns a 16-7 record versus the East, while Cleveland has posted a 17-12 ledger against the West.
First Round Action: If the playoffs were to begin today, then Detroit and Toronto would be squaring off in the first round. The Pistons have stopped the Raptors twice this year by double-digits, including a 101-85 victory on Jan. 4 as 4 ½-point road favorites. The ‘over’ cashed in both games. Toronto has been a solid go-against of late, going 3-11 both SU and ATS in their last 14 games. The Raptors’ offense has been stifled to 91.6 PPG in their last five games, which has helped the ‘under’ go 5-0. Detroit is 0-4 ATS in its last four road games.
Must-win scenarios:
Chicago at Philadelphia: The Bulls are three games behind Atlanta for the eighth and final playoff spot and their hopes are quickly diminishing. Chicago will be facing its second game in two nights and is just 5-11 SU and 7-9 ATS on zero days rest. The Sixers are 8-2 SU and 6-4 ATS in their last 10, which includes an impressive 95-90 victory against Boston as nine-point road underdogs. Possible let down here against the Bulls after the big win, plus the visitor in this head-to-head series is a perfect 3-0 both SU and ATS this year. Chicago needs this one more…
Indiana at New Jersey: The Pacers and Nets are both creeping up on the Hawks for the last spot in the East, but only the winner of this battle will gain ground. Indiana is on a roll, winning and cover four in a row but will need some extra energy after facing New Orleans on Monday. The Pacers have won eight of nine against the Nets, plus they’ve boasted a 7-2 ATS mark during this streak as well. High-scoring games have been common, with the ‘over’ on a 7-2 run during the recent dominance by the Pacers.
Heavy Chalk:
Houston (-12) vs. Minnesota: Some nice value with the Timberwovles, who have gone 6-3 SU and 5-4 ATS in their last nine games. More importantly, the offense is averaging 105.2 PPG during this stretch which has helped the ‘over’ go 7-2. Minny also enters this game with four days of rest (2-4 SU, 5-1 ATS). The Rockets have gone 2-3 SU and 1-4 ATS, but might put some extra effort into this battle with a big five-game road trip on deck. Houston has won and covered three straight against Minnesota.
San Antonio (NL) vs. L.A. Clippers: Possible letdown spot for the Spurs after facing Orlando on Tuesday. San Antonio has gone 11-5 SU, but only 5-11 ATS on zero days rest. Greg Popovich’s team has won seven straight against the Clippers but have failed to cover the previous three battles. Keep an eye on Los Angeles’ injuries, as they’re playing out the string with D League specials.
Sacramento (-10) vs. Memphis: Surprising line in this spot, considering the Grizzlies just ran past the Kings 117-111 last Saturday as a one-point home favorite. Memphis has covered three in a row against the Kings, but the club is just 5-29 SU and 15-19 ATS away from home. Meanwhile, Sacramento owns a 21-12 SU and 20-13 ATS ledger at ARCO Arena this year.
L.A. Lakers (-14.5) vs. Charlotte: After splitting a home-and-home set with the Warriors, the Lakers have a very favorable schedule on tap. Seven of the final 11 games are against non-playoff teams and nine will be played at Staples Center, which includes a road contest versus the Clippers. Charlotte played Utah last night and is a dismal 6-27 SU and 12-20 ATS on the road this year. The team is 4-13 SU and 7-10 ATS on zero days rest. The Lakers topped the Bobcats 106-97 as 8 ½-point road favorites on Feb. 11.
Bet at your own risk!
Milwaukee at Atlanta: Hawks appear to be the better choice in this matchup, especially with the Bucks’ record on the road (6-28 SU, 13-21 ATS). However, Milwaukee has won and covered three straight against Atlanta.
Miami at New York: If you wager on this game, then I would strongly suggest you call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Washington at Seattle: The Wizards will be playing on zero days rest and are only 3-4 ATS as a road favorite this year. The Sonics snapped their 11-game losing streak on Monday to Portland (97-84), but the club hasn’t won back-to-back games since Jan. 31. Washington has won and covered three straight against Seattle, including a 22-point win (108-86) on Jan. 6.
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Wednesday's Tip Sheet
By Brad Young
It is officially crunch time in college basketball whether you’re talking about the NCAA Tournament, the NIT or the CBI. Wednesday’s action features quarterfinal action for the NIT, with the winners advancing to the Big Apple to play at Madison Square Garden and the semifinals for the CBI. Let’s break down all four of Wednesday’s matchups.
**Mississippi at Virginia Tech**
-Caesars Palace opened Virginia Tech as an eight-point home favorite over Mississippi, with the total listed at 142. ESPN2 starts its coverage of this contest 7:00 p.m. ET.
-Mississippi (22-10 straight up, 13-15 against the spread) knocked off Nebraska Monday in overtime as a 5½-point home favorite, 85-75. The combined 160 points soared past the 137½-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 5-1 the past six games.
-The Rebels prevailed by shooting a blistering 53 percent (32-of-61) from the field, including 7-of-14 from behind the arc. Five players reached double digits in scoring, led by Chris Warren’s 18 points on 5-of-10 shooting.
-Ole Miss is 4-7 SU and 5-6 ATS when playing on the road.
-Virginia Tech (21-13 SU, 19-11 ATS) routed Alabama-Birmingham Monday as a seven-point home favorite, 75-49. The Hokies have covered their last nine outings. The combined 134 points failed to topple the 137-point closing total, enabling the ‘under’ to improve to 3-1 the past four games.
-The Hokies prevailed by shooting 47 percent (27-of-57) while limiting UAB to 36 percent (21-of-58). Guard/forward A.D. Vassallo led all scorers with 18 points on 6-of-9 shooting, while Deron Washington added 16 and six rebounds.
-Virginia Tech sports a 17-2 SU and 11-4 ATS when playing on its home court.
**Dayton at Ohio State**
-Caesars Palace installed Ohio State as an 8 ½-point home ‘chalk’ over Dayton, with the total set at 127. ESPN2 will provide coverage of Wednesday’s NIT quarterfinal contest beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET.
-Dayton (23-10 SU, 14-13 ATS) upset Illinois State Monday as a six-point road underdog, 55-48. That marked the third game in a row that the Flyers covered. The combined 103 points never seriously threatened the 121½-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ cash its second consecutive contest.
-Dayton shot 43 percent (17-of-40) from the field, including 56 percent (5-of-9) from behind the arc while limiting the Redbirds to 14 percent (3-of-22) from three-point land. Guard Brian Roberts was the only Flyers player to reach double digits in scoring with 16 along with six rebounds.
-Dayton is 7-7 SU and 6-7 ATS when playing on the road.
-Ohio State (20-13 SU, 16-14 ATS) throttled California Monday as a 6 ½-point home ‘chalk,’ 73-56. The Buckeyes have covered their last two outings. The combined 129 points went ‘under’ the 141 ½-point closing total, ending back-to-back ‘over’ outings.
-Ohio State won the rebounding battle (34-29), while shooting 50 percent (29-of-58) from the field. Guard Jamar Butler netted 20 points in the victory, while forward Othello Hunter added 11 and 16 rebounds.
-The Buckeyes are 15-3 SU and 8-7 ATS on their home court.
**Bradley at Virginia**
-Caesars Palace lists Virginia as a 5½-point home ‘chalk’ over Bradley, with the total set at 153½. This CBI Tournament semifinal contest is scheduled to tipoff at 7:00 p.m. ET.
-Bradley (19-15 SU, 16-14 ATS) toppled Ohio Monday as a six-point home favorite, 79-73, while the combined 152 points eclipsed the 142-point closing total. The ‘over’ is 10-1 the past 11 games for the Braves.
-Bradley entered halftime trailing the Bobcats, 42-29, but outscored Ohio in the second half, 50-31. Four starters reached double digits in scoring, led by guard Andrew Warren’s game-high 22 points on 6-of-10 shooting.
-The Braves are 7-9 SU and 9-7 ATS when playing on the road.
-Virginia (17-15 SU, 13-14 ATS) held off Old Dominion Monday as an 8 ½-point home ‘chalk,’ 80-76. The Cavaliers have failed to cover their last three games. The combined 156 points toppled the 140-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 3-1 the past four contests.
-Virginia trailed at halftime, 37-29, before outscoring the Monarchs in the second half, 51-39. Guard Sean Singletary led the way with 22 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while three bench players contributed double digits in scoring.
-The Cavaliers are 13-7 SU and 7-8 ATS when playing at home, failing to cover their last two home endeavors.
**Houston at Tulsa**
-Caesars Palace opened Tulsa as a 3½-point home favorite over Houston, with the total set at 145. This CBI semifinal contest is scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m. ET.
-Houston (23-9 SU, 15-13 ATS) roughed up Valparaiso Monday as an 8 ½-point home ‘chalk,’ 91-67, while the combined 158 points went ‘over’ the 148-point closing total. The Cougars have seen the ‘over’ cash their last four matchups.
-Houston dominated the Crusaders on the boards, 41-28, while shooting 45 percent (29-of-64) from the field. Guard Rob McKiver led all scorers with 33 points on 10-of-19 shooting.
-The Cougars are 18-3 SU and 8-9 ATS on their home court.
-Tulsa (22-13 SU, 16-12 ATS) advanced to this stage by beating Utah Monday as a three-point home favorite, 69-60. The combined 129 points slithered ‘over’ the 128½-point closing total, ending three consecutive ‘under’ outings.
-The Golden Hurricane cruised after opening up a 35-20 halftime advantage. Tulsa won the rebounding battle, 34-29, while shooting 38 percent (18-of-47) from the field. Guard Ben Uzoh paced the offense with 22 points on 5-of-11 shooting.
-Tulsa is 17-3 SU and 13-4 ATS when playing on its home court.
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NIT
Mississippi (23-10, 13-15 ATS) at Virginia Tech (21-13, 20-11 ATS)
Snubbed by the NCAA Tournament selection committee, Virginia Tech has taken its frustrations out on its first two NIT opponents, hammering Morgan State 94-62 as a 16-point favorite a week ago tonight, then blasting UAB 75-49 on Monday as an eight-point home favorite to reach the quarterfinals. The Hokies have shot a combined 56 percent from the field in the two victories (48.6 percent from three-point range) and held their foes to 39.8 percent shooting (20.5 percent from three-point land).
The Hokies, who placed fourth in the ACC this year, have cashed in nine consecutive games (7-2 SU). They’re also playing tremendous defense, giving up just 59.6 points per game in their last five.
Mississippi, the third-place finisher in the SEC West, easily disposed of U.C. Santa Barbara in its first NIT contest a week ago, pounding out an 83-68 victory as a 12-point home favorite. But the Rebels needed overtime to get past Nebraska on Monday, prevailing 85-75 and cashing as a 5½-point home chalk.
Ole Miss has won five out of six, averaging 85.2 points per game during the run. The only loss during this stretch was against Georgia in overtime in the SEC Tournament.
During its 8-0 ATS hot streak, Va-Tech is 5-0 ATS as a favorite and 5-0 ATS at home. Furthermore, the Hokies have cashed in six of their last eight non-league contests, and they’re 12-4 ATS as a chalk this season and 5-1 ATS in their last six on Wednesday.
Ole Miss is now 13-5 ATS in its last 18 non-SEC games (4-0 in the last four) and 4-1 ATS in its last five Wednesday affairs. However, the Rebels are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven after a spread-cover and 2-7 SU in true road games this season, going 2-5 ATS in the last seven as a visitor.
The over is 5-1 in Ole Miss’s last six overall and 8-3-1 in its last 12 non-league contests, but the under is 5-0 in its last five on the road. Meanwhile, the over is 8-4 in Virginia Tech’s last 12 at home, but the under is 15-7 in the Hokies’ last 22 non-league contests.
ATS ADVANTAGE: VIRGINIA TECH
Dayton (23-10, 14-14 ATS) at Ohio State (21-13, 15-14-1 ATS)
Ohio State, fifth-place finishers in the Big Ten, notched its 21st victory of the season on Monday, easily handling Cal 73-56 as a seven-point home favorite in an NIT second-round matchup. The Buckeyes also had no trouble in their first-round game, crushing North Carolina-Ashville 84-66 as a 14½-point favorite. Thad Matta’s team has rebounded from a four-game losing skid to win four of its last five (3-1-1 ATS).
Dayton has given up a total of just 105 points in its first two NIT contests, beating Cleveland State 66-57 as a seven-point home chalk last Wednesday, then upsetting Illinois State 55-48 as a six-point underdog on Monday. The Flyers, who finished tied for seventh in the Atlantic 10, are on a 6-1 run (5-2 ATS), with the only setback coming against nationally ranked Xavier in the A-10 tournament.
Ohio State is on pointspread streaks of 5-0 in non-conference action and 10-4 as a favorite of five points or more. However, the Buckeyes are 1-4 ATS in their last five after a spread cover, though they have cashed in two straight games for the first time since late January.
Dayton has followed up a five-game road losing skid by winning three straight true road contests. However, the Flyers are just 1-6 ATS in their last seven on the highway. On the bright side, they’re 7-1 ATS in their last eight non-conference contests.
Although this is an instate matchup, there are no recent meetings between the two schools.
The under is 8-2 in OSU’s last 10 non-Big Ten contests and 10-4 in its last 13 at home. Conversely, the over is 7-2 in Dayton’s last nine non-conference tussles and 22-6 in its last 28 following an outright win.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OHIO STATE
COLLEGE BASKETBALL INVITATIONAL
Bradley (19-15, 17-14-1 ATS) at Virginia (17-15, 13-14 ATS)
Virginia held off Old Dominion 80-76 Monday to reach the semifinals of the inaugural version of this tournament. However, the Cavaliers failed to cover as an eight-point home chalk, moving to 1-4 ATS in their last five overall, including three straight non-covers. In their opening-round contest in this event, they held off Richmond 66-64, never threatening to cover as an 11-point home favorite.
Bradley topped Ohio 79-73 on Monday, narrowly covering as a 5½-point home favorite to end a two-game ATS skid. The Braves have followed a three-game losing streak by winning two straight, including a 70-67 home victory over Cincinnati in its opening-round contest. They are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games overall.
The Cavaliers’ ATS trends are all negative, including 7-19 in Wednesday contests, 2-6 after a pointspread setback, 1-4 in non-conference play and 3-6 as a single-digit favorite. On the flip side, the Braves sport positive pointspread streaks of 10-2 against teams with a winning record, 4-1 on Wednesday, 6-2 on the highway, 5-2 as an underdog of seven points or less, 7-3 after a spread-cover and 36-16-2 following a SU win.
For Virginia, the under is on a 5-2 run at home and is 6-2 in its last eight Wednesday starts, although the over is 3-1 in the Cavaliers’ last four overall, with Monday’s win soaring over the posted price of 140½.
The over is on a 10-1 tear for Bradley and is also 5-0 in its last five on the road and 17-8-1 in the Braves’ last 26 non-conference games. Monday’s victory over Ohio easily cleared the 141-point posted price.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
Houston (24-9, 15-13 ATS) at Tulsa (22-13, 18-11 ATS)
Tulsa dropped Utah 69-60 Monday laying 2½ points at home for its second consecutive SU and ATS win in this tournament. The Golden Hurricane, who hammered Miami (Ohio) 61-45 in an opening-round contest a week ago, are on a 6-1 SU and ATS spree, with the lone loss coming to Memphis in the Conference USA tournament final.
Houston barely beat Nevada 80-79 as a four-point road underdog in its first-round outing on March 18, then pounded Valparaiso 91-67 Monday as an 8½-point home favorite. The Cougars have rebounded from an 0-4 ATS slump to cash in two straight. Also, they’re 8-3 ATS in their last 11 starts against teams with a winning SU record.
These Conference USA rivals have met once each of the past three seasons, with Houston going 3-0 SU and ATS. In this year’s matchup on Feb. 6, the Cougars posted a 92-81 home win giving eight points. But since that setback, Tulsa has gone 12-3 SU and a sterling 12-2 ATS in lined contests. Last year at Tulsa, Houston eked out a 69-67 win catching 3½ points.
The Golden Hurricane are on a 13-3 ATS spree in Tulsa and are on additional positive ATS runs of 5-1 against winning teams, 5-1 on Wednesday, 10-2 in Conference USA, 8-2 after a SU win and 8-2 following a spread-cover.
The Cougars are on pointspread streaks of 5-0 versus teams with a winning percentage above .600, 4-1 on Wednesday, 6-2 after a SU win, 6-2 after a spread-cover and 10-4 in roadies. On the negative side, though, Houston is mired in ATS slumps of 0-4 inside the conference, 1-4 after scoring more than 90 points and 2-6 after a SU win of more than 20 points.
Tulsa is on “under” stretches of 4-1 in conference play, 5-2 at home and 5-2 overall. Conversely, for Houston, the over is on streaks of 4-0 overall, 5-0 after a SU win, 4-0 on the highway, 4-1 in conference and 8-2 after a SU win of more than 20 points.
ATS ADVANTAGE: TULSA
NBA
New Orleans (48-21, 43-25-1 ATS) at Cleveland (40-31, 34-37 ATS)
The streaking Hornets shoot for their fifth consecutive victory when they visit Quicken Loans Arena for a battle with LeBron James and the Cavaliers.
New Orleans is coming off last night’s 114-106 win at Indiana as a 7½-point favorite. That followed three impressive home victories over the Bulls (108-97), Rockets (90-69) and Celtics (113-106), easily covering the spread in each contest. The Hornets are 11-3 SU and ATS in their last 14 games, and the straight-up winner has cashed in each of the team’s last 18 contests.
Cleveland comes into this one off Saturday’s 108-98 loss in Milwaukee as a four-point road favorite. The Cavs are just 3-4 SU and ATS in their last seven outings, but they have won nine straight at home (6-3 ATS).
The Hornets beat Cleveland 86-76 as a five-point home favorite back on Dec. 29. Despite that result, the Cavs are still 8-2 in the last 10 meetings, but 6-4 ATS. Finally, the home team is 5-1 ATS in the last six clashes, and the Hornets are 1-5 ATS in their last six trips to Cleveland.
Although the Hornets are on a solid overall run, most of the damage has been done at home, as they’ve lost four of their last six road contests, and they’re 2-5 ATS in their last seven on the highway (1-4 ATS as a road underdog). On the bright side, New Orleans has several positive ATS streaks, including 20-8 as an underdog, 7-1 as a road underdog of less than five points, 6-1 against the Eastern Conference, 23-5-2 when playing on back-to-back nights and 35-16-1 on Wednesdays.
Cleveland has cashed in five of its last six at Quicken Loans Arena and four of its last five on Wednesdays. However, the Cavs are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine when returning from a long layoff (three or more days of rest).
The over is 5-1 in the last six series meetings and 4-0-1 in the last five contests in Cleveland. The over is also on streaks for the Hornets of 5-0-1 versus the Eastern Conference, 21-9-2 against the Central division, 4-0 as a road underdog and 6-2 on Wednesdays. On the flip side, the under is 9-5 in Cleveland’s last 14 overall, 7-0 in its last seven at home and 8-3 in its last 13 versus the Southwest Division.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
Phoenix (47-23, 33-34-3 ATS) at Boston (55-15, 42-26-2 ATS)
The Suns will try for the second time this year to hand the Celtics their third straight defeat when these teams meet in the marquee game of the night at TD Banknorth Garden.
Boston ended a five-game road trip with Saturday’s 113-106 loss at New Orleans as a 1½-point underdog, then came home on Monday and got tripped up in a 95-90 loss to the 76ers as a 9½-point chalk. The Celtics’ two-game slide – just their third all season – came on the heels of a 14-1 run. Also, Boston has failed to cash in back-to-back games after going 9-1 ATS in the previous 10.
The Suns had their seven-game winning streak (6-0-1 ATS) snapped in Monday’s 110-105 overtime loss at Detroit as a 2½-point underdog. Phoenix is 4-4 in its last eight on the highway (4-3-1 ATS).
Phoenix dealt the Celtics their first – and to this point only – three-game losing skid of the season back on Feb. 22, holding Boston to a season-low in points in an 85-77 victory as a one-point home favorite. The Suns have won the last five meetings (3-2 ATS), but the teams have alternated spread-covers in the last nine series battles. Also, the Suns’ win and cover last month ended an 8-0 ATS run by the visitor in this rivalry, with Phoenix cashing in each of its last five trips to the Banknorth Garden.
The Suns are on pointspread streaks of 5-1 against the Atlantic Division, 4-1 when going on one day of rest and 11-4-1 after a SU loss. However, they’re 1-7-2 ATS in their last 10 on Wednesday and 1-4 ATS in their last five as a road ‘dog.
Boston is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 coming off a defeat, 6-2 ATS in its last eight as a favorite and 7-2 ATS in its last nine against the Western Conference.
Boston has been held under 100 points in six of its last seven games, but also has kept its opponents under triple digits in 11 of its last 13 contests. Meanwhile, the Suns have scored at least 103 points in seven straight games and 12 of the last 14, cracking 110 on 10 different occasions. However, they’ve allowed 110 or more in 10 of 15 games since holding the Celtics to 77 points.
For the Celtics, the under is on streaks of 7-2 overall, 5-0 as a favorite, 5-1 at home and 5-1 when playing on a days’ rest. However, for the Suns, the over is on runs of 14-6 overall, 20-6 against the Eastern Conference, 5-2 versus the Atlantic Division, 4-1 as an underdog and 6-2 when playing on one day of rest.
Finally, the over is 7-3-1 in the last 11 meetings overall and 5-1 in the last six clashes in Beantown.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
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NBA Today
Dallas at Denver (8 p.m. EDT). The Nuggets are ninth in the Western Conference, two games behind the seventh-place Mavericks.
STARS
-David West and Chris Paul, Hornets. West had 35 points and 16 rebounds and Paul added 31 points and 14 assists as New Orleans won its fourth straight, 114-106 over Indiana.
-Drew Gooden, Bulls, scored a season-high 31 points and matched a season best with 16 rebounds, leading Chicago past Atlanta 103-94.
-Carlos Boozer, Jazz, had 28 points and 13 rebounds as Utah routed Charlotte 128-106.
SNAPPED
Dallas snapped a three-game losing streak and won its first game without leading scorer and rebounder Dirk Nowitzki, beating the Clippers 103-90 Tuesday night. Los Angeles has lost eight straight.
ONE-SIDED
Manu Ginobili scored 28 points and Michael Finley added 24 as San Antonio beat Orlando 107-97 Tuesday night for its fourth straight win. The Magic are the only NBA team that has never won a season series against the Spurs.
SEASONS
Indiana's 114-106 loss to New Orleans on Tuesday night snapped a four-game winning streak and guaranteed the Pacers back-to-back losing seasons for the first time since the 1987-88 and 1988-89 seasons.
TWENTY-TWENTY
Orlando's Dwight Howard had 24 points and 21 rebounds in a 107-97 loss to San Antonio on Tuesday night, his eighth game this season with at least 20 in both categories.
SIDELINED
Portland scoring and assist leader Brandon Roy left Tuesday night's game with a strained right groin on the last play of the first quarter. The Blazers were already without LaMarcus Aldridge, the team's second-leading scorer who sprained an ankle Monday against Seattle, but still beat Washington 102-82.
SPEAKING
``It's going to change maybe four or five times before the season's over, unless we go undefeated.'' - New Orleans guard Chris Paul on regaining the Western Conference lead following Tuesday night's 114-106 victory over Indiana.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Atlanta Hawks
- The Milwaukee Bucks and the Atlanta Hawks will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Philips Arena.
Oddsmakers currently have the Hawks listed as 8-point favorites versus the Bucks, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Bucks lost 78-73 to the Heat last time out, as 9-point favorites on the road. The 151 points were well UNDER the posted total of 199.
Andrew Bogut had a double-double with 16 points and 17 rebounds in the loss.
The Hawks lost 103-94 to the Bulls last time out, as 4-point road underdogs. The 193 points were UNDER the posted total of 207.
Josh Childress had 22 points and Mike Bibby added 18 in the loss for the Hawks.
Team records:
Milwaukee: 24-45 SU, 30-38-1 ATS
Atlanta: 30-40 SU, 33-37 ATS
Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Orlando are 2-8
After playing Miami are 5-5
After a loss are 3-7
Atlanta most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Chicago are 5-5
After playing Chicago are 5-5
After a loss are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Milwaukee's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 14 of Milwaukee's last 17 games
Milwaukee is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 7 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
Atlanta is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Next up:
Milwaukee home to Orlando, Friday, March 28
Atlanta home to Chicago, Friday, March 28
New Orleans Hornets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- The New Orleans Hornets and the Cleveland Cavaliers will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at Quicken Loans Arena.
Oddsmakers currently have the Cavaliers listed as 2½-point favorites versus the Hornets, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
David West tossed in a game-high 35 points and hauled in 16 rebounds for a double-double on Tuesday, as he led the Hornets over the Pacers 114-106. The Hornets covered the 7.5-point spread, and the combined 220 points made it OVER the posted total of 213.
Chris Paul scored 31 points and added 14 assists for the Hornets. Tyson Chandler added 15 points and seven rebounds in the win.
The Cavaliers were upset by the Bucks 108-98 last time out, as 4.5-point favorites on the road. The combined score made it OVER the posted total of 203.
LeBron James had 29 points with 11 rebounds in a double-double for the Cavaliers in the loss.
Current streak:
New Orleans has won 4 straight games.
Team records:
New Orleans: 48-21 SU, 43-25-1 ATS
Cleveland: 40-31 SU, 34-37 ATS
New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Boston are 5-5
After playing Indiana are 4-6
After a win are 7-3
Cleveland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Detroit are 7-3
After playing Milwaukee are 5-5
After a loss are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
New Orleans is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
New Orleans is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games at home
Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Cleveland is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Next up:
New Orleans at Boston, Friday, March 28
Cleveland at Detroit, Saturday, March 29
Detroit Pistons vs. Toronto Raptors
- The Detroit Pistons and the Toronto Raptors will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Air Canada Centre.
Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total.
Chauncey Billups threw in a team-high 32 points on Monday, as the Pistons got past the Suns 110-105 in overtime. The game was a pik'em, and the comobined 215 points made it OVER the posted total of 207.5.
Rasheed Wallace scored 23 points with nine rebounds in the win, and Rodney Stuckey had 13 points.
The Raptors lost to Denver 109-100 as a 2.5-point favorite last time out. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (225.5).
Chris Bosh led the Raptors with 17 points 12 rebounds and nine assists, while Jose Calderon also scored 17 points in the loss.
Current streak:
Toronto has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Detroit: 50-20 SU, 38-31-1 ATS
Toronto: 35-35 SU, 36-34 ATS
Detroit most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Miami are 7-3
After playing Phoenix are 7-3
After a win are 6-4
Toronto most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing New York are 8-2
After playing Denver are 1-9
After a loss are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
Detroit is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games on the road
Detroit is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing at home against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Toronto's last 11 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Toronto's last 13 games at home
Next up:
Detroit home to Miami, Thursday, March 27
Toronto home to New York, Friday, March 28
Chicago Bulls vs. Philadelphia 76ers
- The Chicago Bulls and the Philadelphia 76ers will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at Wachovia Center.
Oddsmakers currently have the 76ers listed as 8-point favorites versus the Bulls, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Bulls were outplayed in the fourth quarter, but held on for a 103-94 win over the Hawks on Tuesday. The Bulls managed to cover the 4-point spread, while the 193 points were UNDER the posted total of 207.
Drew Gooden led the way with 31 points and 16 rebounds for a double-double performance for the Bulls. Ben Gordon chipped in with 16 points off the bench.
The 76ers dominated the fourth quarter to earn a come-from-behind 95-90 upset victory over the Celtics on Monday, as 9-point underdogs. The 185 points were UNDER the posted total of 192.
Kevin Garnett had 18 points for the Celtics, while Leon Powe added 16 points with seven rebounds.
Current streak:
Philadelphia has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
Chicago: 28-42 SU, 31-39 ATS
Philadelphia: 36-35 SU, 38-32-1 ATS
Chicago most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Atlanta are 4-6
After playing Atlanta are 8-2
After a win are 1-9
Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Phoenix are 7-3
After playing Boston are 5-5
After a win are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
Chicago is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Chicago's last 13 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
Chicago is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games at home
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
Philadelphia is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Philadelphia's last 11 games at home
Next up:
Chicago at Atlanta, Friday, March 28
Philadelphia home to Phoenix, Friday, March 28
Miami Heat vs. New York Knicks
- The Miami Heat and the New York Knicks will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Madison Square Garden.
Oddsmakers currently have the Knicks listed as 6½-point favorites versus the Heat, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Heat got off to a slow start, but rebounded with a strong second half in a 78-73 upset over the Bucks on Monday. The Heat won the game as a 9-point underdogs at home, but the 151 points were well UNDER the posted total of 199.
Chris Quinn shot 8-for-13 from the field with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists in the win.
The Knicks were defeated 106-91 by the Nets last time out, as 7-point underdogs at home. The combined score fell UNDER the night's posted total of 201.
Jamal Crawford tossed in 26 points, while Zach Randolph had 17 points with eight rebounds in the loss.
Current streak:
New York has lost 5 straight games.
Team records:
Miami: 13-57 SU, 26-43-1 ATS
New York: 19-51 SU, 30-39-1 ATS
Miami most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Detroit are 7-3
After playing Milwaukee are 5-5
After a win are 1-9
New York most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Toronto are 2-8
After playing New Jersey are 3-7
After a loss are 1-9
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games
Miami is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against New York
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 7 games when playing New York
Miami is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 6 games at home
New York is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Miami
The total has gone OVER in 15 of New York's last 21 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New York's last 7 games when playing Miami
Next up:
Miami at Detroit, Thursday, March 27
New York at Toronto, Friday, March 28
Phoenix Suns vs. Boston Celtics
- The Phoenix Suns and the Boston Celtics will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at TD Banknorth Garden.
Oddsmakers currently have the Celtics listed as 5½-point favorites versus the Suns, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Suns lost 110-105 in overtime to the Pistons last time out, as a pik'em. The 215 points made it OVER the posted total of 207.5.
Amare Stoudemire shot 9-for-18 from the field with a game-high 33 point in the loss.
The Celtics were upset 95-90 by the 76ers last time out, as 9-point favorites at home. The 185 points were UNDER the posted total of 192.
Kevin Garnett had 18 points for the Celtics, while Leon Powe added 16 points with seven rebounds.
Current streak:
Boston has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Phoenix: 47-23 SU, 33-34-3 ATS
Boston: 55-15 SU, 42-26-2 ATS
Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Philadelphia are 5-5
After playing Detroit are 5-5
After a loss are 8-2
Boston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing New Orleans are 5-5
After playing Philadelphia are 5-5
After a loss are 6-4
A few trends to consider:
Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Boston
Phoenix is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
Phoenix is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Boston is 11-2 SU in its last 13 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Boston's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 6 games when playing at home against Phoenix
Boston is 14-3 SU in its last 17 games
Next up:
Phoenix at Philadelphia, Friday, March 28
Boston home to New Orleans, Friday, March 28
Indiana Pacers vs. New Jersey Nets
- The Indiana Pacers and the New Jersey Nets will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at Izod Center.
Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total.
The Pacers fell 114-106 to the Hornets last time out, as 7.5-point underdogs. The combined 220 points made it OVER the posted total of 213.
Danny Granger had 26 points and nine rebounds in the loss.
Vince Carter dropped 27 points to help lead his Nets to a 106-91 win over the Knicks on Monday. The Nets easily covered the 7-point spread, while the combined score fell UNDER the night's posted total of 201.
Carter also had six rebounds and seven assists, while Richard Jefferson added 26 points and Nenad Krstic had 22 in the win.
Team records:
Indiana: 29-42 SU, 33-36-2 ATS
New Jersey: 30-41 SU, 29-41-1 ATS
Indiana most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing New Jersey are 2-8
After playing New Orleans are 8-2
After a loss are 4-6
New Jersey most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Indiana are 7-3
After playing New York are 4-6
After a win are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indiana's last 7 games when playing New Jersey
Indiana is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Indiana's last 25 games when playing on the road against New Jersey
New Jersey is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Indiana
New Jersey is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Indiana
New Jersey is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Jersey's last 7 games when playing Indiana
Next up:
Indiana home to New Jersey, Friday, March 28
New Jersey at Indiana, Friday, March 28
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Houston Rockets
- The fans at Toyota Center will be treated to a game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Houston Rockets when they take their seats on Wednesday.
Oddsmakers currently have the Rockets listed as 11½-point favorites versus the Timberwolves, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
Ryan Gomes threw in a game-high 26 points to help the Timberwolves devour the Knicks 114-93 on Saturday. The Timberwolves covered the 9.5-point spread, while the combined score made it OVER the night's posted total of 198.5.
Gomes also hauled down eight boards, and Rashad McCants chipped in with 24 points in the win.
Rafer Alston tossed in a game-high 28 points to lead the Rockets to a 108-100 win over the Kings last time out. The Rockets could not cover the 11-point spread, and the 208 points sailed OVER the posted total of 196.
Tracy McGrady responded with 17 points, and Shane Battier added 15 in the win.
Team records:
Minnesota: 18-51 SU, 33-35-1 ATS
Houston: 48-23 SU, 40-29-2 ATS
Minnesota most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing San Antonio are 5-5
After playing New York are 3-7
After a win are 3-7
Houston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing San Antonio are 4-6
After playing Sacramento are 5-5
After a win are 8-2
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Minnesota's last 9 games
Minnesota is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 16-1 SU in its last 17 games at home
Houston is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games
Houston is 13-4 ATS in its last 17 games at home
Houston is 17-6 ATS in its last 23 games
Next up:
Minnesota at San Antonio, Friday, March 28
Houston at San Antonio, Sunday, March 30
Los Angeles Clippers vs. San Antonio Spurs
- The Los Angeles Clippers and the San Antonio Spurs will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at AT&T Center.
Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total.
The Clippers lost 103-90 to the Mavericks last time out, as 14-point road underdogs. The 193 points made it OVER the posted total of 189.
Corey Maggette shot 8-for-14 from the field with 21 points and three rebounds in the loss.
Manu Ginobili tossed in 28 points to help the Spurs put aside the Magic for a 107-97 win on Tuesday, as 1.5-point road underdogs. The combined score made it OVER the posted total of 190.
Michael Finley tossed in 24 points, while Tim Duncan had 19 points and 15 rebounds for a double-double in the win.
Current streak:
Los Angeles has lost 8 straight games.
San Antonio has won 4 straight games.
Team records:
Los Angeles: 21-49 SU, 30-40 ATS
San Antonio: 48-23 SU, 33-38 ATS
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Utah are 8-2
After playing Dallas are 6-4
After a loss are 2-8
San Antonio most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Minnesota are 7-3
After playing Orlando are 9-1
After a win are 8-2
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the LA Clippers last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of the LA Clippers last 24 games when playing San Antonio
LA Clippers are 5-14-1 ATS in their last 20 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
LA Clippers are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing San Antonio
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing LA Clippers
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against LA Clippers
San Antonio is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
San Antonio is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Next up:
LA Clippers at Utah, Friday, March 28
San Antonio home to Minnesota, Friday, March 28
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Sacramento Kings
- The Memphis Grizzlies and the Sacramento Kings will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at ARCO Arena.
Oddsmakers currently have the Kings listed as 10-point favorites versus the Grizzlies, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Grizzlies lost 120-106 to the Nuggets last time out, as 8.5-point underdogs at home. The 226 points fell UNDER the posted total of 229.
Rudy Gay had a game-high 30 points, and Hakim Warrick dropped 29 points in the loss.
The Kings lost 108-100 to the Rockets as 11-point underdogs on Monday. The 208 points sailed OVER the posted total of 196.
Kevin Martin had 18 points for the Kings, while Francisco Garcia and Ron Artest each had 17 in the loss.
Current streak:
Sacramento has lost 3 straight games.
Team records:
Memphis: 18-52 SU, 30-40 ATS
Sacramento: 31-39 SU, 36-33-1 ATS
Memphis most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing LA Lakers are 2-8
After playing Denver are 4-6
After a loss are 3-7
Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Washington are 6-4
After playing Houston are 6-4
After a loss are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Memphis's last 7 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
Memphis is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Memphis is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Memphis's last 7 games
Sacramento is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Memphis
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Sacramento's last 7 games when playing at home against Memphis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Sacramento's last 5 games at home
Sacramento is 11-3 SU in its last 14 games at home
Next up:
Memphis at LA Lakers, Friday, March 28
Sacramento home to Washington, Friday, March 28
Washington Wizards vs. Seattle SuperSonics
- The Washington Wizards and the Seattle SuperSonics will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at KeyArena.
Oddsmakers currently have the Wizards listed as 7½-point favorites versus the SuperSonics, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
The Wizards were crushed 102-82 by the Trail Blazers last time out, as 1-point favorites on the road. The combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 187.
Caron Butler tossed in 19 points and Antonio Daniels had 14 in the loss for the Wizards.
Kevin Durant had 23 points and nine rebounds Monday, as the SuperSonics defeated the Trail Blazers 97-84. The SuperSonics won the game as 8-point underdogs, while the combined 181 points were well UNDER the posted total of 202.
Damien Wilkins scored 20 points for the Sonics, and Jeff Green added 16 in the win.
Team records:
Washington: 36-34 SU, 40-29-1 ATS
Seattle: 17-54 SU, 34-35-2 ATS
Washington most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Sacramento are 4-6
After playing Portland are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4
Seattle most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Charlotte are 4-3
After playing Portland are 4-6
After a win are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
Washington is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Seattle
Washington is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Seattle
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Seattle's last 15 games
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Washington
Seattle is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Next up:
Washington at Sacramento, Friday, March 28
Seattle home to Charlotte, Friday, March 28