Monday's Tip Sheet
By Josh Jacobs
On Monday only three games will take center stage in the NBA.
Hands down, the most intriguing tip-off will pit Dallas (39-20 straight up, 24-31-4 against the spread) and Utah (38-22 SU, 31-29 ATS) together in a fight for Western Conference bragging rights and divisional placement of course).
Splitting the first two games of the season, Dallas has been a recent weak link in contests played away from American Airlines Center. In their last 12, the Mavericks have gone 5-7 SU and 6-6 ATS in road disputes, are shooting 3.9 PPG lower then the NBA average (on the road) and are a mortal 13-18 ATS on the season (again, all coming away from home).
The upside for Dallas is a burst of performance coming in the past five games. Led by Dirk Nowitzki (26.6 PPG in February) and Josh Howard (16.3 PPG in February), the Mavs have thrown down 101.6 PPG in their last five and are denying the opposition with a staunch 92.6 PPG allowed.
Coming off zero days of rest, Dallas has assembled an 8-6 SU record, but has burnt backers with a disappointing 5-8-1 ATS loss. Over the same period, the Mavs and their opponents are averaging a total of 198.1 PPG, resulting in an 8-5 record on the ‘over’.
Defending their home court, Utah is coming off a 6-4 SU and 4-6 ATS operation in its last 10. Although only managing to take three wins in their last five, the Jazz have strived to execute on offense, scoring an average of 102.8 PPG and shooting for a highly effective 49.9-percent from the field.
Coming off a day of rest, Utah has managed to compile a friendly 15-12 ATS record for backers. And when matched against teams playing over .500 this season, the Jazz are 16-9 SU, with nine wins coming from within their own building. When playing teams in their conference, Utah is 22-15 ATS.
In the last 22 head-to-head meetings, the home team has dominated the books with a 15-5-1 ATS billing.
**New Orleans at New York**
Two different worlds are expected to collide at 7:30 p.m. EST, when the struggling Knicks (19-41 SU, 29-29-1 ATS) will look to defend Madison Square Garden from the swarming Hornets (39-18 SU, 34-22-1 ATS).
While New York has been downright dismal, compiling a 4-13 SU record in the last 18, bettors backing this organization have been getting by with a 6-3-1 ATS resume in the last 10 games.
Total players can take satisfaction that the Knicks are 9-1 on the ‘over’ in their last 10.
Apart from New Orleans adding up a 16-7 SU performance in its last 23 (although dropping three in a row form Feb. 22 to the 25th), tickets have been screaming at the windows. In their last 34 road contests, the Hornets have worked for a 24-9-1 ATS ledger.
This will be the first meeting between both teams this season. In their last 10 together, New Orleans has gone 7-3 SU and 6-4 ATS, with the ‘over’ seeing daylight six times.
The Knicks’ Zach Randolph has been listed ‘day-to-day’ with a sore foot, while the Hornets’ Bonzi Wells is ‘questionable’ with an achilles problem. New Orleans is 2-0 ATS in their last two without Wells.
**Philadelphia at L.A. Clippers**
Making some noise in the East, the relatively quiet 76ers (27-33 SU, 31-26-3 ATS) will try to edge closer to a .500 record when it meets the down-and-out Clippers (19-38 SU, 25-32 ATS) at 10:30 p.m. EST.
Covering the spread seven times in the last 10 and securing seven SU wins in its last 10, Philly will be looking for its second win in a row in head-to-head action against the L.A. Clippers.
It was back on Feb. 9 that the ‘Sixers grabbed a 101-80 ‘W’ over the Clips. Philadelphia was able to cover the 6 ½-point spread, the ‘under’ cashed in and five players found themselves with double-digit points on the stat sheet.
Taking a day off on Sunday after dropping five in a row and going 10-24 in their last 34, the Clippers have been a complete train wreck. Scoring just 90.7 PPG in their last 10 and surrendering 98.3 PPG puts L.A. at a difference of minus-7.6 PPG.
And off one of rest, the Clippers 13-18 ATS this season, while going 11-20 ATS at home.
Philadelphia is 12-3-1 ATS in its last 16 and are 7-1 ATS in its last eight versus a team with a winning record below .400.
The 76ers’ Jason Smith is ‘day-to-day’ with a left ankle sprain. The Clippers’ Tim Thomas is ‘day-to-day’ with a groin injury.
vegasinsider.com.
Big Monday
**Pittsburgh at West Virginia**
--Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened West Virginia (20-9 straight up, 12-10 against the spread) as a 4½-point favorite with a total of 132.
--Bob Huggins’ squad returns home following Saturday’s 79-71 loss at UConn. The Mountaineers failed to cash tickets as three-point underdogs. Joe Alexander had 32 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort against the Huskies.
--Since losing four straight games, Pittsburgh (21-8 SU, 13-11 ATS) has responded with back-to-back wins, including Saturday’s thrilling come-from-behind win at the Carrier Dome. The Panthers trailed the ‘Cuse by 11 with 3:49 remianing, but they promptly went on a 9-0 run start a frenetic rally. Jamie Dixon’s bunch forced three turnovers at crunch time, took the lead and then added to it following a Jim Boeheim technical foul to take a dramatic 82-77 road win.
--The improbable comeback over the Orange marked Pitt’s fifth straight win at the Carrier Dome. Also, the Panthers improved to 9-7 in Big East play. Finally, they snapped out of an 0-4 ATS slide.
--West Virginia owns a 12-2 SU record and a 5-3-1 ATS mark at home.
--The ‘under’ is 14-9 overall for WVU, 5-4 in its home games. Meanwhile, Pitt has watched the ‘over’ hit in four consecutive games.
--Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Eastern.
**Texas Tech at Kansas**
--Both of these teams are facing quick turnarounds after winning emotional games Saturday night. Kansas avenged an early-season loss at Kansas State by pounding the Wildcats 88-74 as a 12-point home ‘chalk.’
--Kansas (26-3 SU, 15-12 ATS) remained unbeaten in 18 home games, improving to 11-5 versus the number.
--Texas Tech (16-12 SU, 15-8 ATS) has won three of its last four games both SU and ATS, including Saturday’s 83-80 win over red-hot Texas as a five-point home underdog. Martin Zeno was the catalyst for the Red Raiders, finishing with 15 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
--Bill Self’s squad is 2-5 ATS in its last seven games as a double-digit favorite. As for Texas Tech, this will be just its second game as a double-digit underdog. The Red Raiders got spanked 73-47 at Texas in the lone previous such spot as 10 ½-point ‘dogs.
--The ‘over’ is on a 7-1 run for the Red Raiders since Pat Knight took over for his father, Bobby Knight.
--The ‘over’ is 10-6 for KU at home.
--LVSC opened the Jayhawks as 18-point home favorites with a total of 143. As of late Sunday night, most spots had KU in the 19-20 range.
--ESPN will provide television coverage at 9:00 p.m. ET.
**Santa Clara at Gonzaga**
--LVSC sent Gonzaga out as a 15-point ‘chalk’ with a 129-point tally.
--Gonzaga (23-6 SU, 16-13 ATS) has won six straight games, posting a 5-1 spread record in the process. The Bulldogs are off an 88-76 win over St. Mary’s as seven-point home favorites. Matt Bouldin was the catalyst with 21 points and seven rebounds, while Jeremy Pargo chipped in 18 points.
--Santa Clara (14-14 SU, 13-13 ATS) lost Saturday at Portland by a 64-58 count as a 4 ½-point favorite.
--Santa Clara is 1-3 both SU and ATS as a double-digit underdog. The Broncos failed to cover in blowout losses at St. Mary’s, at Minnesota and at Stanford, but they won outright at Utah as 10½-point underdogs.
--The ‘under’ is 15-14 overall for Gonaza, 9-5 in its home games. As for Santa Clara, it has watched the ‘under’ cash at a 16-10 overall clip.
--The ‘over’ is on an amazing 11-1 run in the last 12 head-to-head meetings between these WCC rivals.
--Tip-off is slated for 11:30 p.m. ET. on ESPN2.
**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**
--I can’t say enough about the job Billy Gillispie did in getting his Kentucky team ready to play Sunday at Tennessee. Even with the back-breaking news of Patrick Patterson’s season-ending injury coming down Friday, UK wasn’t just ready to play – it came to win and take the lead in the SEC East. However, the top-ranked Vols (for now) made more plays in the last two minutes and won a 63-60 decision. Nevertheless, the Wildcats easily hooked up their backers as 14 ½-point underdogs.
--That was an absolutely incredible comeback by Clemson to rally from a 59-39 deficit with 11 minutes left to steal a 73-70 win at Maryland. Terrence Oglesby drained an audacious 3-pointer from about 28 feet out on the right wing with 2.3 seconds left to lift the Tigers to victory in a pick ‘em matchup.
Biggest Weekend Winners:
1-Oklahoma (vs. Texas A&M)
2-Arkansas (vs. Vandy)
3-Illinois St. (at So. Illinois)
4-Texas Tech (vs. Texas)
5-Arizona St. (vs. USC)
Biggest Weekend Losers:
1-Syracuse (vs. Pittsburgh)
2-Wake Forest (at Georgia Tech)
3-Florida (vs. Mississippi St.)
4-Houston (at East Carolina)
5-Maryland (vs. Clemson)
--I just don’t think Gary Williams, Tom Crean and Jim Boeheim are going to sleep well these next few nights.
vegasinsider.com
Success stories: Rockets without Yao, Lakers with Kobe
Associated Press
Without their biggest star, the Rockets keep on winning. The Lakers are doing it too, thanks to their own superstar.
Houston stretched its winning streak to 15 games, the last three without injured center Yao Ming, in a 103-89 victory over Denver on Sunday. Tracy McGrady scored 22 points and Shane Battier added 20 as the Rockets tied a franchise record for consecutive wins.
``We know how good we are and we're showing it,'' McGrady said. ``We're a focused group, a group that understands how to win ballgames.''
As do the Lakers - give the ball to Kobe Bryant.
Kobe Bryant scored 30 of his 52 points in the fourth quarter and overtime to lead Los Angeles to a 108-104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Bryant hit the 50-point mark for the 22nd time in his career and first time this season. He went 15-of-27 from the floor and, constantly driving and drawing fouls, was 20-of-27 from the line.
``We gave him a single look, then we double-teamed him, then we gave him a triple-team and he split the triple-team and scored,'' Mavericks coach Avery Johnson said. ``We tried to zone him, we tried to funnel him in the trap for a zone and he went the other way. He didn't cooperate on any of our defenses.
``Obviously he milked the free throw line on us and he just had it all going. He's a great player. He has these (games). Lots of these.''
Elsewhere Sunday, it was Cleveland 95, Chicago 86; Boston 98, Atlanta 88; Washington 101, New Orleans 84; San Antonio 93, New Jersey 83; Golden State 110, Portland 104; Charlotte 110, Toronto 98; Indiana 128, Milwaukee 106; Seattle 111, Minnesota 108 in OT; and Sacramento 120, Miami 109.
Elsewhere Sunday, it was Cleveland 95, Chicago 86; Boston 98, Atlanta 88; Washington 101, New Orleans 84; San Antonio 93, New Jersey 83; Golden State 110, Portland 104; Charlotte 110, Toronto 98; Indiana 128, Milwaukee 106; Seattle 111, Minnesota 108 in OT; and Sacramento 120, Miami 109.
The winning streak is the longest in the NBA this season and matches the longest in Rockets franchise history, reached twice, the last time in their championship season of 1993-94. Houston is 3-0 since losing All-Star center Yao for the season with a stress fracture in his foot. The Rockets have won their last six games by 10 points or more, extending a franchise record.
``It's been fun ... but it's a run that we're not satisfied by,'' Battier said. ``We feel like we still have a lot of improvement and that's the exciting part. I don't think we're playing our best.''
Denver's Allen Iverson had a tough night, going 7-for-22 and finishing with a 17 points after scoring 38 on Friday.
Denver's Allen Iverson had a tough night, going 7-for-22 and finishing with a 17 points after scoring 38 on Friday.
Bryant also had 11 rebounds and four assists. Pau Gasol added 17 points and 14 rebounds for the Lakers, who are 12-2 since he played his first game for them on Feb. 5.
Bryant credited the defense as much as anything for the big win.
``All in all, we didn't give them any good looks, and I think eventually that wears a team down,'' Bryant said. ``We really got it done on the defensive end.
``It was a physical game. It was back and forth. We didn't play extremely well, but it felt good to get this one done.''
Dirk Nowitzki had 30 points for Dallas, including a 3-pointer with 2 seconds remaining in regulation to tie it at 93. He had nine points in the extra period, but missed a 3-point try that would have tied it again with 7 seconds remaining.
Dirk Nowitzki had 30 points for Dallas, including a 3-pointer with 2 seconds remaining in regulation to tie it at 93. He had nine points in the extra period, but missed a 3-point try that would have tied it again with 7 seconds remaining.
At Cleveland, LeBron James scored 37 points and took over down the stretch as the Cavaliers ended the game on a 12-3 run.
Cleveland, Chicago and Seattle were involved in an 11-player deal on Feb. 21. Larry Hughes, Drew Gooden, Cedric Simmons and Shannon Brown were sent to the from the Cavaliers to the Bulls, who dealt center Ben Wallace and forward Joe Smith to Cleveland.
Hughes led the Bulls with 23 points, shooting 8-of-20 shots from the field. Gooden scored 11 points with 10 rebounds.
Hughes led the Bulls with 23 points, shooting 8-of-20 shots from the field. Gooden scored 11 points with 10 rebounds.
At Boston, Paul Pierce scored 30 points, 17 in the pivotal third quarter, and Kevin Garnett had 20 points and 16 rebounds to lead the Celtics to their fifth consecutive win.
Ray Allen scored 17, and Kendrick Perkins had 11 points and a season-high 12 rebounds to go with a career-high six assists.
Josh Smith scored 20 points and added nine rebounds, and Al Horford had 14 and 11 for the Hawks, who missed a chance to move into a tie for the eighth playoff spot in the East.
Josh Smith scored 20 points and added nine rebounds, and Al Horford had 14 and 11 for the Hawks, who missed a chance to move into a tie for the eighth playoff spot in the East.
At Washington, Antawn Jamison had 28 points and nine rebounds, and Washington beat New Orleans for its fourth win in five games and second over the Hornets in a week.
Leading 80-79, the Wizards blew the game apart with a 19-0 run. Jamison started it with two free throws and a 3-pointer, then his block of Peja Stojakovic's layup led to a 3-pointer by DeShawn Stevenson. The Hornets didn't score again until a 3-pointer by Rasual Butler in the final minute.
Stojakovic scored 17 points and Chris Paul had 16 to lead the Hornets.
Stojakovic scored 17 points and Chris Paul had 16 to lead the Hornets.
Tony Parker had 25 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and San Antonio won a season-high ninth straight.
Tim Duncan added 13 points and 14 rebounds, and Manu Ginobili had 17 points as the visiting Spurs beat the Nets for the 10th straight time. New Jersey has not beaten San Antonio since November 2002.
Devin Harris and Vince Carter scored 21 points apiece for the Nets.
Devin Harris and Vince Carter scored 21 points apiece for the Nets.
Stephen Jackson hit six 3-pointers while scoring 29 points, Monta Ellis added 22 points and Golden State beat Portland for its seventh win in nine games.
Baron Davis had 18 points for the Warriors, who beat Portland for the first time in three tries this season.
Brandon Roy scored 26 points and Travis Outlaw added 17 for the Blazers, who have lost nine of 12.
Brandon Roy scored 26 points and Travis Outlaw added 17 for the Blazers, who have lost nine of 12.
At Charlotte, Jason Richardson scored 30 points and the Bobcats took advantage of Chris Bosh's absence.
Richardson, taking over the brunt of the scoring with Gerald Wallace out indefinitely following a severe concussion, hit 10 of 24 shots and all seven free throws. Rookie Jared Dudley added a career-high 17 points and 10 rebounds for Charlotte, which snapped a five-game losing streak in its second win in 14 games.
Anthony Parker scored 24 points for the Raptors.
Anthony Parker scored 24 points for the Raptors.
At Indianapolis, Mike Dunleavy tied his career high of 36 points for the second straight game. Danny Granger had 27 points and nine rebounds as he returned to the starting lineup after being suspended a game for striking Chicago's Andres Nocioni in the face on Wednesday.
Michael Redd led Milwaukee with 28 points. Milwaukee forward Yi Jianlian left with a sprained left ankle with 10:44 to play and did not return.
Michael Redd led Milwaukee with 28 points. Milwaukee forward Yi Jianlian left with a sprained left ankle with 10:44 to play and did not return.
At Minneapolis, Kevin Durant scored 25 points, Chris Wilcox added 18 points and 15 rebounds, and Seattle snapped its four-game losing streak.
Earl Watson had 15 points and Nick Collison 14 for Seattle.
Al Jefferson led Minnesota with 30 points and 12 rebounds, while Rashad McCants had 18 points.
Al Jefferson led Minnesota with 30 points and 12 rebounds, while Rashad McCants had 18 points.
Ron Artest scored 32 points, Kevin Martin added 29 and host Sacramento overcame a 21-point deficit in the second half.
The victory was sweet revenge for Sacramento, which lost by 21 points last week in Miami when the Heat snapped an 11-game losing streak with their most lopsided victory of the season. Sunday's victory also broke an eight-game win streak in the series by the Heat, who hadn't lost to the Kings since Jan. 13, 2004.
Dwyane Wade had 26 points and seven assists for Miami.
Monday's best NBA bets
Covers.com
New Orleans at New York
Coach Byron Scott feels the New Orleans Hornets may have overlooked a seemingly overmatched opponent in losing their last game. He hopes they avoid doing that again Monday when they visit the lowly New York Knicks.
The Hornets (39-19) are third in the Western Conference, two games behind co-leaders San Antonio and the Los Angeles Lakers. They lost ground Sunday with a listless effort in a 101-84 defeat Sunday to Washington while both the Spurs and Lakers posted victories.
The defeat, which came after wins over Phoenix and Utah, was New Orleans' fourth in six games and the second to the injury-riddled Wizards in a six-day span as the Hornets were swept by the Wizards for the first time since 1989-90.
Scott felt a lack of respect contributed to the losses.
"That's the problem, they think they can't get beat by this team twice," Scott said. "And that's why we got our butts kicked both times. That's to be just point-blank with your guys. I just don't know if these guys respected them enough."
Dallas at Utah
The Dallas Mavericks have struggled against some of the Western Conference's best teams recently and now they have to visit one of the most difficult arenas for visitors this season.
The Mavericks look to snap the Utah Jazz's 15-game home winning streak Monday night when the teams meet for the third time this season.
Dallas (39-21) is in seventh place in the West and hasn't helped itself recently, splitting its last four games. Those two losses came against the top teams in the West - 97-94 to San Antonio on Thursday, and 108-104 in overtime to the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday.
"You're playing the best in the West, so you want to be considered a team that can compete with those guys," Jason Kidd told Dallas' official Web site.
The Mavericks now visit the Northwest Division-leading Jazz (38-22), trying to become the first team to win at Utah since Boston on Dec. 29.
The Jazz, tied with Dallas for the league's best home record (25-3), have won 15 straight at EnergySolutions Arena since that 104-98 loss to the Celtics. It's their longest home winning streak since a 19-game stretch in 1995-96 matched a franchise record.
Utah returns home Monday after splitting a pair of road games, losing 110-98 to New Orleans on Friday before beating Memphis 113-92 on Saturday. The Jazz had seven players score in double figures and shot 57.0 percent from the field in that win, which improved them to 13-19 on the road this season.
"It's a road victory and road victories are hard to come by, especially this year," said Deron Williams, who had 13 points and 19 assists. "We'll take them any way we can get them."
Philadelphia at Los Angeles Clippers
The Philadelphia 76ers have defeated some of the best teams in the NBA during their recent surge. They might not have to work as hard for a win Monday when they visit the struggling Los Angeles Clippers.
The 76ers (27-33) have risen from the depths of the Eastern Conference to put themselves in the thick of the playoff picture by going 9-3 since Feb. 5. That stretch includes an 84-76 win over Dallas, a 101-89 victory over Orlando and Saturday's 119-114 win at Phoenix.
Philadelphia shot 56.7 percent from the field in its latest victory, thanks in part to 30 fast-break points and 52 points in the paint.
"To come in and play the way we played tonight is pretty big for us," said coach Maurice Cheeks, whose team is averaging 24.5 fast-break points over this 12-game stretch.
"We're trying to push the tempo. We try to rebound the basketball and get into the open court and that's one of the things we tried to do was get into the open court - every time they missed a shot, trying to push the ball up the floor and get some easy baskets."
Andre Iguodala and Andre Miller have keyed Philadelphia's recent success. Iguodala was 15-for-23 from the field and had 32 points against the Suns. He's shooting 49.1 percent in the Sixers' last nine wins.
The Sixers will try to do so by taking advantage of the reeling Clippers (19-38), who have dropped five straight to fall further out of contention in the West.
Los Angeles is shooting 39.2 percent from the field and getting outscored by an average of 16.8 points during its skid. The Clippers shot 34.8 percent in a 103-73 loss to Detroit on Saturday.
New Orleans Hornets vs. New York Knicks
- The New Orleans Hornets and the New York Knicks will both be trying to pick up a win on Monday when they battle at Madison Square Garden.
The Hornets lost to Washington 101-84 as an 8-point favorite last time out. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (194).
Peja Stojakovic led the Hornets with 17 points and seven rebounds, while Chris Paul had 16 points and eight assists in the loss.
The Knicks were pounded 118-92 by the Magic on Saturday, as 11.5-point road underdogs. The 210 points made it OVER the posted total of 209.5.
Jamal Crawford tossed in 23 points with seven assists in the loss for the Knicks.
Current streak:
New York has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
New Orleans: 39-19 SU, 34-23-1 ATS
New York: 18-41 SU, 29-29-1 ATS
New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Monday are 6-4
Before playing Atlanta are 3-7
After playing Washington are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4
New York most recently:
When playing on Monday are 4-6
Before playing Cleveland are 1-9
After playing Orlando are 3-7
After a loss are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
New Orleans is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing New York
New Orleans is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing New York
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
New Orleans is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 9 of New York's last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New York's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New York's last 5 games when playing at home against New Orleans
New York is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Next up:
New Orleans home to Atlanta, Wednesday, March 5
New York home to Cleveland, Wednesday, March 5
Dallas Mavericks vs. Utah Jazz
- The Dallas Mavericks and the Utah Jazz will both be trying to pick up a win on Monday when they battle at EnergySolutions Arena.
The Mavericks lost to the Lakers 108-104 in overtime as a 6.5-point underdog last time out. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (208).
Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 30 points and 13 rebounds and Erick Dampier had 16 points and 17 rebounds in the loss
The Jazz dominated the fourth quarter to come away with a 113-92 win over the Grizzlies last time out. The Jazz covered the 9.5-point spread on the road, while the 205 points were UNDER the posted total of 212.
Carlos Boozer had 18 points for the Jazz, while Mehmet Okur added 17. Ronnie Brewer and Andrei Kirilenko each had 16 points in the victory.
Team records:
Dallas: 39-21 SU, 25-31-4 ATS
Utah: 38-22 SU, 31-29 ATS
Dallas most recently:
When playing on Monday are 8-2
Before playing Houston are 8-2
After playing LA Lakers are 9-1
After a loss are 7-3
Utah most recently:
When playing on Monday are 9-1
Before playing Minnesota are 9-1
After playing Memphis are 10-0
After a win are 6-4
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games when playing on the road against Utah
Dallas is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Dallas is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games when playing Utah
Dallas is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Utah's last 7 games when playing at home against Dallas
Utah is 16-4 SU in its last 20 games
Utah is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
Next up:
Dallas home to Houston, Thursday, March 6
Utah home to Minnesota, Wednesday, March 5
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Los Angeles Clippers
- The fans at STAPLES Center will be treated to a game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers when they take their seats on Monday.
Andere Iguodala scored a game-high 32 points in leading the 76ers to a 119-114 win over the Suns last time out. The combined score made it OVER the posted total of 211.
Andre Miller added 25 points for the Sixers, and Willie Green had 17 points in the win.
The Clippers were pounded 103-72 by the Pistons on Saturday, as 9-point underdogs. The 176 points were UNDER the posted total of 182.
Corey Maggette shot 5-for-15 from the field with 22 points and five rebounds, while Chris Kaman and Josh Powell each had 13 in the loss.
Current streak:
Los Angeles has lost 5 straight games.
Team records:
Philadelphia: 27-33 SU, 31-28-1 ATS
Los Angeles: 19-38 SU, 25-32 ATS
Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Monday are 3-7
Before playing Seattle are 4-6
After playing Phoenix are 2-8
After a win are 6-4
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Monday are 9-1
Before playing Sacramento are 6-4
After playing Detroit are 4-6
After a loss are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
Philadelphia is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games on the road
Philadelphia is 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing LA Clippers
Philadelphia is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the LA Clippers last 8 games at home
LA Clippers are 11-2 SU in their last 13 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the LA Clippers last 5 games
LA Clippers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games
Next up:
Philadelphia home to Seattle, Friday, March 7
LA Clippers home to Sacramento, Wednesday, March 5
Monday’s Pregame Buzz
NBA
New Orleans Hornets at New York Knicks
* Hornets are 24-9-1 ATS in their last 34 road games.
* Hornets are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Knicks are 6-22 ATS in their last 28 Monday games.
Dallas Mavericks at Utah Jazz
* Mavericks are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
* Jazz are 26-11-1 ATS in their last 38 home games.
* The home team is 16-5-1 ATS in the last 22 meetings.
Philadelphia 76ers at Los Angeles Clippers
* The 76ers are 9-3 since Feb. 5th. That stretch includes wins over Dallas, Orlando and a 119-114 win at Phoenix on Saturday. EDGE: 76ERS
* The Clippers have dropped five straight, and Los Angeles is shooting 39 percent from the field while getting outscored by an average of 17 points during its skid. The Clippers shot just 35 percent in a 103-73 loss to Detroit on Saturday. EDGE: 76ERS
* Clippers center Chris Kaman returned last game, after missing four games because of a sore lower back. He had 13 points and 14 rebounds in 33 minutes, but said he was “rusty." The Sixers held Kaman to a season-low four points on 2-for-10 shooting in the teams' first meeting Feb. 9th. EDGE: 76ERS
* 76ers are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games overall.
* 76ers are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Clippers are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 Monday games.
CBB
Pittsburgh at West Virginia
* Pitt is 7-3-1 ATS in its last 11 Monday games.
* West Virginia is 22-10-1 ATS in its last 33 home games.
* Pitt is 11-4-1 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
Texas Tech at #7 Kansas
* The Jayhawks are fresh off a 14-point win over their rival Wildcats on Saturday. Brandon Rush led Kansas with a season-high 21 points, as the Jayhawks look to move into sole possession of first place in the Big 12. EDGE: KANSAS
* Kansas should have a major edge inside. The Jayhawks outrebounded Kansas State, the nation’s fifth-best rebounding team, 41-34 on Saturday. Kansas averages 39 boards per game, third in the Big 12, while Texas Tech is 11th in the conference at 31 per game. EDGE: KANSAS
* Texas Tech has four wins against ranked opponents this year, and junior guard Alan Voskuil is fresh off an 18 point game against the No.5 Texas Longhorns on Saturday. Voskuil has been hot lately averaging 19 points in his last six games as well. EDGE: TEXAS TECH
* Texas Tech has never won in nine trips to Lawrence, losing its last five visits by an average of 29 points. EDGE: KANSAS
* Texas Tech is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 games against the Big 12.
* Kansas is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 home games.
* Kansas is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
#23 St. Mary's at Portland
* St. Mary’s is 13-5 ATS in its last 18 Monday games.
* St. Mary’s is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Portland is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games overall.
Santa Clara at Gonzaga
* The Gonzaga Bulldogs look to win the WCC crown outright for the sixth straight season. A Gonzaga win or a Saint Mary’s loss to Portland would give the Bulldogs yet another outright WCC crown. “We don’t want to share the WCC title,” said sophomore guard Matt Bouldin, “We want to keep this streak going.” EDGE: GONZAGA
* The Bulldogs have won 14 of16 and nine straight at home since falling to then-No. 8 Washington State on Dec. 5th. Gonzaga is 51-3 at home since the McCarthey Athletic Center opened in 2004. EDGE: GONZAGA
* Santa Clara is the only WCC team to beat Gonzaga at home in the last four seasons. The Broncos defeated the Bulldogs 84-73 last season. “It is one of the toughest and most fun places to play,” Santa Clara senior forward Mitch Henke said, “We are definitely going to be fired up going in there.” EDGE: SANTA CLARA
* Mitch Henke matched his season high with 21 points in the Broncos last game. He’s averaging 18 points and shooting 64 percent from the field and 63 percent from 3-point range in his last three games. EDGE: SANTA CLARA
* The UNDER is 7-1 in Santa Clara’s last 8 road games.
* Gonzaga is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games overall.
* The OVER is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings.
Pregame.com
Monday NBA Gameday
There are just six teams in action on a light Monday night around the NBA, including the Utah Jazz and star guard Deron Williams. Here's a look at that slate in NBA Gameday:
New Orleans Hornets at New York Knicks
The Hornets ended their February schedule with three losses in their last five games, which caused them to lose a bit of ground to the Spurs in the Southwest Division standings. The last time New Orleans and New York met on the hardwood was back on March 31 of last year, when the Hornets pulled out a 103-94 home victory. Monday will continue a busy part of the schedule for New Orleans, with five games in seven nights.
The Knicks now boast the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference, and they're in danger of joining the Heat with a winning percentage below .300. The Knicks are coming off a 118-92 loss to the Magic on Saturday night, with Jamal Crawford scoring a team-high 23 points for New York in that contest. Quentin Richardson was good for 16 points and seven boards that day. The Knicks have now lost six of their past 10 games.
Dallas Mavericks at Utah Jazz
The Mavericks are hoping that their acquisition of Jason Kidd results in a long playoff run for the franchise, although the team needed some dates against the league's lesser lights to break out of a skid this past week. Dallas and Utah have already battled twice this season, with each team winning one game. The Mavs won 125-117 at home on December 8, with the Jazz coming out on top 99-90 in their building on December 26.
Utah holds down the lead in the Northwest Division standings, and they'll want to stay there to lock down home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The Jazz handily defeated the Grizzlies 113-92 on Saturday, with Carlos Boozer pouring in a team-high 18 points. Mehmet Okur picked up 17 points and 13 rebounds in that game, and Williams added 19 assists. Utah has managed to win six of their past 10 contests.
Philadelphia 76ers at Los Angeles Clippers
The Sixers have won seven of their past 10 games to hold onto a spot in the Top 8 of the Eastern Conference standings. Philly, though, is still just 27-33 on the season, but they are coming off an impressive 119-114 road victory over the Suns on Saturday. Andre Iguodala sparked the Sixers' attack with 32 points in that contest, while Andre Miller picked up 25 points and 12 assists. Philadelphia is just 11-19 on the road so far.
The Clippers don't have much of a chance of moving out of the basement of the Pacific Division this season, let alone actually making the playoffs. Los Angeles has now lost five games in a row, and they were soundly beaten 103-73 by the Pistons at the Staples Center on Saturday. Corey Maggette picked up 22 points for the Clippers in that lopsided loss, while Chris Kaman scored 13 points and added 14 boards in the game.
NCAAB
PITTSBURGH (21 - 8) at W VIRGINIA (20 - 9) - 3/3/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
W VIRGINIA is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 3-2 against the spread versus W VIRGINIA over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 5-1 straight up against W VIRGINIA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
TEXAS TECH (16 - 12) at KANSAS (26 - 3) - 3/3/2008, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS TECH is 57-81 ATS (-32.1 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
TEXAS TECH is 47-69 ATS (-28.9 Units) in road games since 1997.
TEXAS TECH is 47-69 ATS (-28.9 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
TEXAS TECH is 38-64 ATS (-32.4 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1997.
TEXAS TECH is 39-63 ATS (-30.3 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
TEXAS TECH is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) in all games this season.
TEXAS TECH is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) in all lined games this season.
TEXAS TECH is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS is 1-1 against the spread versus TEXAS TECH over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS is 1-1 straight up against TEXAS TECH over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
FRESNO ST (13 - 16) at UTAH ST (20 - 9) - 3/3/2008, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FRESNO ST is 7-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) in all games this season.
FRESNO ST is 7-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
FRESNO ST is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) against conference opponents this season.
FRESNO ST is 1-12 ATS (-12.2 Units) after a conference game this season.
FRESNO ST is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) off a loss against a conference rival this season.
FRESNO ST is 16-31 ATS (-18.1 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games since 1997.
FRESNO ST is 83-113 ATS (-41.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
FRESNO ST is 37-60 ATS (-29.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
UTAH ST is 17-30 ATS (-16.0 Units) after a conference game over the last 3 seasons.
UTAH ST is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
UTAH ST is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
FRESNO ST is 4-1 against the spread versus UTAH ST over the last 3 seasons
FRESNO ST is 3-2 straight up against UTAH ST over the last 3 seasons
5 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
PEPPERDINE (10 - 19) at SAN FRANCISCO (8 - 20) - 3/3/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PEPPERDINE is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) as an underdog this season.
PEPPERDINE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in road games this season.
PEPPERDINE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in road lined games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-15 ATS (-8.5 Units) in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-15 ATS (-8.5 Units) in all lined games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all home games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in home lined games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 4-1 against the spread versus PEPPERDINE over the last 3 seasons
SAN FRANCISCO is 5-0 straight up against PEPPERDINE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
ST MARYS-CA (24 - 5) at PORTLAND (9 - 20) - 3/3/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST MARYS-CA is 25-15 ATS (+8.5 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
ST MARYS-CA is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) after allowing 80 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
ST MARYS-CA is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
ST MARYS-CA is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) in all games this season.
PORTLAND is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) in all lined games this season.
PORTLAND is 14-27 ATS (-15.7 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all home games this season.
PORTLAND is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home lined games this season.
PORTLAND is 3-10 ATS (-8.0 Units) against conference opponents this season.
PORTLAND is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) after a conference game this season.
PORTLAND is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) revenging a road loss vs opponent this season.
PORTLAND is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 7-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ST MARYS-CA is 4-2 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
ST MARYS-CA is 4-2 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT (5 - 24) at SAN DIEGO (17 - 13) - 3/3/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all games this season.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) as an underdog this season.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 31-49 ATS (-22.9 Units) when playing with one or less days rest since 1997.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 15-33 ATS (-21.3 Units) in road games revenging a home loss vs opponent since 1997.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) after allowing 80 points or more this season.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.
SAN DIEGO is 31-20 ATS (+9.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 31-20 ATS (+9.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 3-2 against the spread versus SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT is 3-2 straight up against SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
SANTA CLARA (14 - 14) at GONZAGA (23 - 6) - 3/3/2008, 11:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GONZAGA is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) in March games since 1997.
SANTA CLARA is 100-71 ATS (+21.9 Units) against conference opponents since 1997.
GONZAGA is 3-10 ATS (-8.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
GONZAGA is 3-3 against the spread versus SANTA CLARA over the last 3 seasons
GONZAGA is 5-1 straight up against SANTA CLARA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
W CAROLINA (10 - 19) at UNC-GREENSBORO (17 - 11) - 3/3/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
W CAROLINA is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in March games since 1997.
W CAROLINA is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
W CAROLINA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
W CAROLINA is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
UNC-GREENSBORO is 3-3 against the spread versus W CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
UNC-GREENSBORO is 3-3 straight up against W CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
WEBER ST (14 - 13) at SACRAMENTO ST (4 - 23) - 3/3/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WEBER ST is 31-18 ATS (+11.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 31-18 ATS (+11.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
SACRAMENTO ST is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
SACRAMENTO ST is 3-2 against the spread versus WEBER ST over the last 3 seasons
WEBER ST is 3-2 straight up against SACRAMENTO ST over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
VIRGINIA (13 - 13) at GEORGIA TECH (12 - 15) - 3/3/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
VIRGINIA is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 42-73 ATS (-38.3 Units) in road games since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 42-73 ATS (-38.3 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 35-63 ATS (-34.3 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing with one or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
VIRGINIA is 32-59 ATS (-32.9 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 8-21 ATS (-15.1 Units) in road games revenging a home loss vs opponent since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 19-35 ATS (-19.5 Units) in road games off a loss against a conference rival since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games after allowing 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
VIRGINIA is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
VIRGINIA is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15 or more games since 1997.
GEORGIA TECH is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
GEORGIA TECH is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
GEORGIA TECH is 2-1 against the spread versus VIRGINIA over the last 3 seasons
GEORGIA TECH is 2-1 straight up against VIRGINIA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
NBA
New Orleans Hornets at New York Knicks (7:30 PM ET)
Hornets are 24-9-1 ATS in their last 34 road games.
Hornets are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
Knicks are 6-22 ATS in their last 28 Monday games.
Dallas Mavericks at Utah Jazz (NBA | 9 PM ET)
Mavericks are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
Jazz are 26-11-1 ATS in their last 38 home games.
The home team is 16-5-1 ATS in the last 22 meetings.
Philadelphia 76ers at Los Angeles Clippers (10:30 PM ET)
The 76ers are 9-3 since Feb. 5th. That stretch includes wins over Dallas, Orlando and a 119-114 win at Phoenix on Saturday. EDGE: 76ERS
The Clippers have dropped five straight, and Los Angeles is shooting 39 percent from the field while getting outscored by an average of 17 points during its skid. The Clippers shot just 35 percent in a 103-73 loss to Detroit on Saturday. EDGE: 76ERS
Clippers center Chris Kaman returned last game, after missing four games because of a sore lower back. He had 13 points and 14 rebounds in 33 minutes, but said he was “rusty." The Sixers held Kaman to a season-low four points on 2-for-10 shooting in the teams' first meeting Feb. 9th. EDGE: 76ERS
76ers are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games overall.
76ers are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
Clippers are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 Monday games.
Pitt (21-8, 13-11 ATS) at West Virginia (20-9, 12-10-1 ATS)
The Panthers will look to make it five in a row over the Mountaineers when these Big East rivals square off inside the WVU Coliseum in Morgantown, W.V.
Pitt is 4-0 SU (3-1 ATS) against West Virginia dating back to 2006, including a thrilling 55-54 home victory back on Feb. 7, but failing to cash as three-point favorites. Going back even further, the Panthers have won seven of the last 10 series clashes – including last year’s 60-47 rout in Morgantown as a two-point road chalk – and they’re 11-4-1 ATS in the last 16. The straight-up winner is also on an 8-1-1 ATS roll in this rivalry.
The Panthers come into this one on a modest two-game streak after Saturday’s come-from-behind 82-77 win at Syracuse as two-point road ‘dogs. Pitt (9-7, 8-8 ATS in the Big East) snapped an 0-4 ATS drought that dated to Feb. 12 and was just the third spread-cover for the Panthers in their last 10.
West Virginia is coming off Saturday’s 79-71 loss at UConn as three-point underdogs. Still, the Mountaineers (9-7, 8-7-1 ATS in the Big East) have won four of six overall (3-2-1 ATS) and three in a row at home (2-0-1 ATS). Going back to last season, West Virginia is 22-10-1 ATS in their last 33 inside the Coliseum.
Pitt is 7-3-1 ATS in its last 11 Monday games but only 2-4 SU and ATS in its last six conference road tilts.
The Mountaineers are 8-3 ATS as a favorite of 12 points or less this season.
The under has been the play five of the last six times these two have tangled and is 16-7 in Pitt’s last 23 on the highway. Most recently, though, the Panthers have soared over the total in four straight and five of their last six.
ATS ADVANTAGE: PITT
Texas Tech (16-12, 15-8 ATS) at (6) Kansas (26-3, 15-12 ATS)
Just 48 hours after stunning No. 5 Texas on their home floor, the Red Raiders travel to Lawrence, Kan., to take on the sixth-ranked Jayhawks in a Big 12 showdown.
Texas Tech held off in-state rival Texas 83-80 on Saturday, getting the cash as five-point home ‘dogs. The Red Raiders (7-7, 9-5 ATS in the Big 12) have won four of their last six SU, and they’re 9-4 ATS in their last 13 overall, all in league play.
Kansas beat Kansas State 88-74 Saturday, climbing back into a first-place tie with Texas atop the Big 12 standings at 12-2 SU (6-8 ATS). Against K-State, the Jayhawks barely got the cash as a 12-point chalk, their first ATS win in six outings and just their third in the last 10. Kansas is perfect in Allen Fieldhouse this season at 18-0, going 11-5 ATS, including 5-2 ATS when hosting Big 12 foes.
The home team has won seven of the last nine series meetings (7-2 ATS), with the Jayhawks destroying the Red Raiders 86-52 as 13½-point favorites in the most recent battle at Allen Fieldhouse in 2006. In this rivalry, Kansas is on ATS streaks of 5-2 overall and 5-0 at home. Also, the straight-up winner is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 series clashes.
Texas Tech has dropped six of its seven Big 12 road games (3-4 ATS), including last week’s horrendous 98-54 loss at Texas A&M.
The over is 7-1 in Kansas’ last eight at home and 11-5 in its last 16 overall. However, the under has been the play in 13 of Texas Tech’s last 17 Monday tip-offs, and is 2-0 in the last two series meetings.
ATS ADVANTAGE: KANSAS
New Orleans (39-19, 34-23-1 ATS) at New York (18-41, 29-29-1 ATS)
The Hornets will try to bounce back from last night’s ugly loss at the Wizards when they invade Madison Square Garden to play the Knicks, a team New Orleans has defeated five straight teams.
Coming off consecutive impressive home wins over the Suns and Jazz, the Hornets went to Washington on Sunday as a 7½-point favorite and got blindsided, falling 101-84. On the bright side, Byron Scott’s club is an impressive 7-3-1 ATS on the second night of back-to-backs this season. Going back to last year, the Hornets are on a 21-5-2 ATS tear when playing on no rest.
The Knicks return home off back-to-back road losses at Atlanta on Friday (99-93 as a 6½-point underdog) and Orlando on Saturday (118-92 as an 11½-point pup), the team’s first two-game slide since losing eight in a row from Jan. 27-Feb. 8. Isaiah Thomas’ squad is 6-3-1 ATS in its last 10 outings.
New Orleans hasn’t lost to New York since 2004, going 5-0 SU and ATS in the process. Last March, the Hornets went to New York and got a 92-90 win as one-point favorites, then followed it up with a 103-94 home win as an eight-point chalk two weeks later.
Despite dropping its last two road games, New Orleans is still 19-9 on the highway this year (17-10-1 ATS). Dating back to last season the Hornets are on a 24-10-1 ATS run on the highway.
New York is 6-22 ATS in its last 28 Monday tip-offs.
The over is 9-1 in the Knicks’ last 10 overall and 9-4-1 in the Hornets’ last 14 overall.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ORLEANS and OVER
Dallas (39-21, 25-31-4 ATS) at Utah (38-22, 31-29 ATS)
The Jazz put their 15-game home winning streak on the line tonight when the Mavericks arrive in Salt Lake City for a key Western Conference matchup.
The Jazz got a 113-92 road win at Memphis on Saturday, cashing as 9½-point road favorites, which came on the heels of Friday’s 110-98 setback in New Orleans. In its most recent home game on Wednesday, Utah scored a 103-95 win over the Pistons, breaking open a tie game with a minute left to get the win and cover as two-point favorites.
Utah is 25-3 SU (18-10 ATS) at home this season – tied with Dallas for the best home mark in the NBA – and hasn’t lost in Salt Lake since a Dec. 29 home meeting with the Celtics. Jerry Sloan’s squad shoots the ball at a 50.5 percent clip on the home floor and outscores the opposition by almost 13 a game (107-94.7).
Dallas dropped to 4-2 in its last six overall (4-1-1 ATS) after Sunday’s 108-104 overtime loss to the Lakers in Los Angeles. The Mavs got the cash as seven-point ‘pups in the defeat, but Avery Johnson’s club is still just 14-18 SU and ATS on the road this season.
The home team has dominated this series, going 16-5-1 ATS in the last 22, with each team scoring a win on its home court earlier this season. Dallas prevailed 125-117 back on Dec. 8 as 5½-point favorites, while the Jazz earned a 99-90 home win on Dec. 26 as a 3½-point chalk. The Mavs are 0-4-1 ATS in their last five trips to Salt Lake City.
The straight-up winner is 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 series battles.
Dallas is on ATS streaks of 4-1-1 against the Northwest Division and 42-19 as an underdog, but is 3-8-1 ATS in its last 12 when playing on the second night of a back-to-back.
Utah has cashed in five straight Monday games and six of seven against the Southwest Division.
The over is 5-3 in the last eight head-to-head meetings overall, 11-5 in Utah’s last 16 Monday contests and 5-0 in Dallas’ last five as an underdog. However, the under is 15-8 in Dallas’ last 23 road games, 47-19 in the Mavs’ last 66 against Northwest Division foes and 6-1 in the last seven Mavs-Jazz matchups in Salt Lake City.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH
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