NBA News and Notes Friday 11/14

Utah Jazz vs. Charlotte Bobcats

The Jazz were stopped 95-87 by the Wizards last time out, as 5-point favorites on the road. The 182 points fell UNDER the posted total of 195.

Carlos Boozer netted 20 points with seven rebounds in the loss.

Jason Richardson paced Charlotte with 23 points in its 88-80 loss to Denver on Tuesday night.

Denver covered as 3-point road favorites as the game played under the 194-point total posted by oddsmakers.

Current streak:
Charlotte has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
Utah: 6-2 SU, 4-4 ATS
Charlotte: 2-5 SU, 3-4 ATS

Utah most recently:
When playing on Friday are 6-4
Before playing Cleveland are 4-6
After playing Washington are 7-3
After a loss are 8-2

Charlotte most recently:
When playing on Friday are 6-4
Before playing Orlando are 3-7
After playing Denver are 4-4
After a loss are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Utah's last 8 games when playing Charlotte
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Utah's last 8 games
Utah is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Charlotte's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Charlotte's last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Charlotte's last 8 games when playing Utah
Charlotte is 8-14-1 ATS in its last 23 games

Next up:
Utah at Cleveland, Saturday, November 15
Charlotte home to Orlando, Sunday, November 16

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Indiana Pacers

The 76ers snapped a three-game losing skid with a 106-96 win over the Raptors as a 5.5-point underdog on Wednesday. The combined 202 points sailed OVER the posted total of 185.

Elton Brand led the way with 25 points and eight rebounds.

The Pacers won their third straight with a 98-87 win over the Nets on Wednesday. The Pacers covered the slight 1.5-point spread, while the 185 points fell UNDER the posted total of 200.

T.J. Ford led the way with 18 points, eight rebounds and nine assists, while Marquis Daniels added 16 in this win.

Current streak:
Indiana has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Philadelphia: 3-5 SU, 3-5 ATS
Indiana: 4-3 SU, 5-2 ATS

Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Friday are 1-9
Before playing Oklahoma City are 4-6
After playing Toronto are 4-6
After a win are 3-7

Indiana most recently:
When playing on Friday are 4-6
Before playing Chicago are 4-6
After playing New Jersey are 4-6
After a win are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Philadelphia's last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Philadelphia's last 14 games when playing on the road against Indiana
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 9 games when playing Indiana
Philadelphia is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
Indiana is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
Indiana is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Philadelphia
Indiana is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing Philadelphia
Indiana is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games

Next up:
Philadelphia home to Oklahoma City, Saturday, November 15
Indiana at Chicago, Saturday, November 15

Washington Wizards vs. Miami Heat

The Wizards scored 30 points in the fourth quarter to earn a 95-87 win over the Jazz on Wednesday, as 5-point underdogs. The 182 points fell UNDER the posted total of 195.

Caron Butler tossed in 27 points with nine rebounds and Antawn Jamison added 21 in the win.

The Heat were defeated 104-96 by the Trail Blazers last time out, as 2-point favorites at home. The 200 points made it OVER the posted total of 189.

Dwyane Wade scored a game-high 36 points with six rebounds and eight assists in the loss.

Team records:
Washington: 1-5 SU, 2-4 ATS
Miami: 4-4 SU, 3-4-1 ATS

Washington most recently:
When playing on Friday are 8-2
Before playing Miami are 3-7
After playing Utah are 4-6
After a win are 4-6

Miami most recently:
When playing on Friday are 5-5
Before playing Toronto are 4-6
After playing Portland are 3-7
After a loss are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Miami
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington's last 9 games on the road
Miami is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Washington
Miami is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Miami is 19-5 SU in its last 24 games when playing Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Miami's last 19 games

Next up:
Washington home to Miami, Tuesday, November 18
Miami at Toronto, Sunday, November 16

Atlanta Hawks vs. New Jersey Nets

The Hawks were trimmed 103-102 by the Celtics last time out, as 10.5-point road underdogs. The 205 points sailed OVER the posted total of 183.5.

Joe Johnson had 28 points with four rebounds and seven assists in the loss.

The Nets were defeated 98-87 by the Pacers last time out, as 1.5-point underdogs at home. The 185 points fell UNDER the posted total of 200.

Vince Carter tossed in a game-high 28 points in a losing effort.

Current streak:
New Jersey has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Atlanta: 6-1 SU, 6-1 ATS
New Jersey: 2-5 SU, 3-4 ATS

Atlanta most recently:
When playing on Friday are 3-7
Before playing New Jersey are 2-8
After playing Boston are 3-7
After a loss are 6-4

New Jersey most recently:
When playing on Friday are 2-8
Before playing Atlanta are 6-4
After playing Indiana are 4-6
After a loss are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
Atlanta is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Atlanta is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
New Jersey is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Atlanta
New Jersey is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Atlanta
New Jersey is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Jersey's last 7 games

Next up:
Atlanta home to New Jersey, Saturday, November 15
New Jersey at Atlanta, Saturday, November 15

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks

Oklahoma City was pounded 109-92 by Orlando last time out, as 7-point underdogs. The 201 points sailed OVER the posted total of 187.

Jeff Green had a double-double for the Thunder with 25 points and 10 rebounds.

Wilson Chandler dropped 27 points in leading the Knicks to a convincing 132-103 win over the Grizzlies on Wednesday. The Knicks won that game as a 4.5-point road underdog, while the 235 points sailed OVER the posted total of 205.5.

Jamal Crawford chipped in with 25 points, while Zach Randolph had 18 points and 10 boards for a double-double in the win.

Current streak:
Oklahoma City has lost 5 straight games.

Team records:
Oklahoma City: 1-7 SU, 5-3 ATS
New York: 5-3 SU, 4-4 ATS

Oklahoma City most recently:
When playing on Friday are 3-7
Before playing Philadelphia are 6-4
After playing Orlando are 7-3
After a loss are 3-7

New York most recently:
When playing on Friday are 2-8
Before playing Dallas are 7-3
After playing Memphis are 3-7
After a win are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Oklahoma City's last 7 games when playing New York
Oklahoma City is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Oklahoma City's last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New York's last 7 games when playing Oklahoma City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New York's last 5 games at home
New York is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New York's last 7 games

Next up:
Oklahoma City at Philadelphia, Saturday, November 15
New York home to Dallas, Sunday, November 16

Denver Nuggets vs. Boston Celtics

The Nuggets were defeated 110-99 by the Cavaliers last time out, as 7-poiunt road underdogs. The combined 209 points made it OVER the posted total of 200.

Chauncey Billups tossed in a game-high 26 points from 9-for-13 shooting from the field in the loss.

The Celtics outscored the Hawks 27-25 in the fourth quarter to earn a 103-102 victory on Wednesday. The Celtics failed to cover the 10.5-point spread, while the 205 points sailed OVER the posted total of 183.5.

Kevin Garnett scored 25 points and hauled down 12 rebounds for a double-double and Paul Pierce tossed in a game-high 34 points in that win.

Current streak:
Boston has won 6 straight games.

Team records:
Denver: 4-4 SU, 6-2 ATS
Boston: 8-1 SU, 4-5 ATS

Denver most recently:
When playing on Friday are 5-5
Before playing Minnesota are 5-5
After playing Cleveland are 6-4
After a loss are 5-5

Boston most recently:
When playing on Friday are 6-4
Before playing Milwaukee are 5-5
After playing Atlanta are 7-3
After a win are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 5 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
Denver is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games
Denver is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games when playing Boston
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing Denver
Boston is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Denver

Next up:
Denver home to Minnesota, Sunday, November 16
Boston at Milwaukee, Saturday, November 15

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies

The Bucks scored 29 points in the fourth quarter and came back for an 82-78 victory over the Spurs on Wednesday. The Bucks covered the 2.5-point spread, while the 160 points fell UNDER the posted total of 181.

Andrew Bogut scored 10 points and grabbed 17 rebounds for a double-double in that win.

The Grizzlies were crushed 132-103 by the Knicks last time out, as 4.5-point favorites. The 235 points sailed OVER the posted total of 205.5.

Rudy Gay added 20 points with three rebounds and three assists in the loss.

Current streak:
Memphis has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Milwaukee: 4-5 SU, 6-3 ATS
Memphis: 3-6 SU, 5-4 ATS

Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Friday are 4-6
Before playing Boston are 3-7
After playing San Antonio are 6-4
After a win are 3-7

Memphis most recently:
When playing on Friday are 4-6
Before playing Sacramento are 4-6
After playing New York are 8-2
After a loss are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
Milwaukee is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Milwaukee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
Milwaukee is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Memphis's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Memphis's last 5 games when playing Milwaukee
Memphis is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Milwaukee
Memphis is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Milwaukee

Next up:
Milwaukee home to Boston, Saturday, November 15
Memphis home to Sacramento, Tuesday, November 18

Portland Trail Blazers vs. New Orleans Hornets

The Trail Blazers scored 37 points in the fourth quarter to earn a come-from-behind 104-96 win over the Heat last time out, as 2-point underdogs. The 200 points made it OVER the posted total of 189.

Rudy Fernandez shot 7-for-11 from the field with 25 points, and Brandon Roy added 22 in the win.

The Hornets were defeated 93-86 by the Lakers last time out, as 1.5-point favorites. The 179 points fell UNDER the posted total of 196.

Chris Paul tossed in a game-high 30 points with seven rebounds and 13 assists in a losing effort.

Current streak:
Portland has won 4 straight games.

Team records:
Portland: 5-3 SU, 4-4 ATS
New Orleans: 4-3 SU, 2-4-1 ATS

Portland most recently:
When playing on Friday are 3-7
Before playing Minnesota are 4-6
After playing Miami are 5-5
After a win are 5-5

New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Friday are 5-5
Before playing Houston are 8-2
After playing LA Lakers are 2-8
After a loss are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Portland's last 7 games
Portland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 17 of Portland's last 25 games on the road
New Orleans is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Portland
New Orleans is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Portland
New Orleans is 20-4 SU in its last 24 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Orleans's last 6 games at home

Next up:
Portland at Minnesota, Saturday, November 15
New Orleans at Houston, Saturday, November 15

Orlando Magic vs. Dallas Mavericks

Orlando built up a 29 point lead at halftime and went on to defeat Oklahoma City 109-92 last time out. Orlando covered the 7-point spread, and the 201 points sailed OVER the posted total of 187.

Dwight Howard led the way with a game-high 30 points and 19 rebounds for a double-double performance in that win.

The Mavericks were upset 98-91 by the Bulls last time out, as 2-point favorites on the road. The 189 points fell UNDER the posted total of 200.

Josh Howard led the Mavericks with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Erick Dampier had 16 points with 18 boards for a double-double in the loss.

Current streak:
Dallas has lost 4 straight games.

Team records:
Orlando: 5-3 SU, 4-4 ATS
Dallas: 2-6 SU, 2-6 ATS

Orlando most recently:
When playing on Friday are 7-3
Before playing Charlotte are 5-5
After playing Oklahoma City are 4-6
After a win are 6-4

Dallas most recently:
When playing on Friday are 7-3
Before playing New York are 6-4
After playing Chicago are 6-4
After a loss are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Orlando's last 5 games when playing Dallas
Orlando is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Orlando is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing Orlando
Dallas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Orlando
Dallas is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Orlando
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing at home against Orlando

Next up:
Orlando at Charlotte, Sunday, November 16
Dallas at New York, Sunday, November 16

Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs

Tracy McGrady dropped a game-high 27 points as the Rockets ran past the Suns 94-82 on Wednesday, as 3.5-point underdogs. The 176 points fell UNDER the night's posted total of 199.

Yao Ming added 17 points with 15 rebounds for a double-double, and Rafer Alston chipped in with 15 in the victory.

The Spurs were defeated 82-78 by the Bucks last time out, as 2.5-point road underdogs. The 160 points fell UNDER the posted total of 181.

Tim Duncan tossed in 24 points with five rebounds in that loss.

Team records:
Houston: 5-3 SU, 3-5 ATS
San Antonio: 2-5 SU, 1-6 ATS

Houston most recently:
When playing on Friday are 5-5
Before playing New Orleans are 7-3
After playing Phoenix are 4-6
After a win are 4-6

San Antonio most recently:
When playing on Friday are 8-2
Before playing Sacramento are 7-3
After playing Milwaukee are 8-2
After a loss are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Houston's last 8 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
Houston is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing San Antonio
San Antonio is 19-2 SU in its last 21 games when playing at home against Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of San Antonio's last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of San Antonio's last 8 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of San Antonio's last 7 games when playing at home against Houston

Next up:
Houston home to New Orleans, Saturday, November 15
San Antonio at Sacramento, Sunday, November 16

Phoenix Suns vs. Sacramento Kings

The Suns fell 94-82 to the Rockets last time out as a 3-point favorite at home. The combined 176 points fell UNDER the night's posted total of 199.

Shaquille O'Neal had a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.

The Kings were outplayed in the second half, but held on for a hard-fought 103-98 win over the Clippers on Wednesday. The Kings won that game as a 7.5-point underdog, while the 201 points made it OVER the posted total of 195.5.

Beno Udrih scored 30 points with four rebounds and seven assists to lead the Kings. Brad Miller had 16 points and 11 boards for a double-double in the win.

Team records:
Phoenix: 6-3 SU, 5-4 ATS
Sacramento: 4-5 SU, 5-4 ATS

Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Friday are 7-3
Before playing Detroit are 6-4
After playing Houston are 8-2
After a loss are 7-3

Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Friday are 5-5
Before playing San Antonio are 5-5
After playing LA Clippers are 3-7
After a win are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
Phoenix is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games when playing Sacramento
Phoenix is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Phoenix is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Phoenix is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
Sacramento is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Sacramento is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Sacramento is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games at home

Next up:
Phoenix home to Detroit, Sunday, November 16
Sacramento home to San Antonio, Sunday, November 16

Detroit Pistons vs. Los Angeles Lakers

Detroit trailed early in the second half before coming through with a close 107-102 victory over the Warriors on Thursday. The Pistons managed to cover the 4.5-point spread, and the 209 points made it OVER the posted total of 200.

Allen Iverson led the Pistons with 23 points, five rebounds and nine assists. Rasheed Wallace chipped in with 19 points in the win.

Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher scored 20 points apiece as the Lakers defeated the Hornets 93-86 on Wednesday, as 1.5-point underdogs. The 179 points fell UNDER the posted total of 196.

Andrew Bynum scored 14 points with eight rebounds for the Lakers, and Paul Gasol also netted 14 in the win.

Current streak:
Detroit has won 2 straight games.
Los Angeles has won 7 straight games.

Team records:
Detroit: 6-2 SU, 4-4 ATS
Los Angeles: 7-0 SU, 6-1 ATS

Detroit most recently:
When playing on Friday are 8-2
Before playing Phoenix are 7-3
After playing Golden State are 5-5
After a win are 5-5

Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Friday are 6-4
Before playing Chicago are 6-4
After playing New Orleans are 7-3
After a win are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
Detroit is 9-2 SU in their last 11 games when playing LA Lakers
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing LA Lakers
Detroit is 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games when playing LA Lakers
LA Lakers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games
LA Lakers are 19-1 SU in their last 20 games at home
LA Lakers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the LA Lakers last 5 games when playing Detroit

Next up:
Detroit at Phoenix, Sunday, November 16
LA Lakers home to Chicago, Tuesday, November 18

Friday's NBA Tip Sheet
By Brad Young

**Nuggets at Celtics**

-Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened Boston as a 10-point home ‘chalk’ over Denver, with the total set at 195. ESPN will provide coverage of this contest beginning at 8:05 p.m. ET.

-Denver (4-4 straight up, 6-2 against the spread) enters Boston playing its second game in as many nights after Thursday’s setback to Cleveland as a seven-point road underdog, 110-99. The combined 209 points soared ‘over’ the 199½-point closing total.

-Guard Chauncey Billups led all scorers with 26 points while dishing out six assists, helping the team shoot 48 percent (35-of-73) from the field.

-The Nuggets are now 2-3 SU and 3-2 ATS on the road, with the ‘over’ going 3-2.

-Boston (8-1 SU, 4-5 ATS) continued its winning ways by beating Atlanta Wednesday as an 11-point home ‘chalk,’ 103-102. The combined 205 points went ‘over’ the 184½-point closing total, ending back-to-back ‘under’ outings.

-Forward Paul Pierce connected on a last-second shot for the victory, finishing the game with 34 points and six rebounds. The Celtics also enjoyed a sizeable rebounding advantage over the Hawks, 43-32.

-The home team went 2-0 SU and ATS last season between Denver and Boston. The Nuggets prevailed as a home ‘pick,’ 124-118, while the Celtics triumphed as a six-point home favorite, 119-93. The ‘over’ has cashed the last four games in this series.

-Denver forward Kenyon Martin is listed as ‘questionable’ against the Celtics.

**Pistons at Lakers**

-LVSC installed Los Angeles as an eight-point home favorite over Detroit, with the total listed at 195. ESPN starts its coverage of this contest at 10:35 p.m. ET.

-Detroit (5-2 SU, 3-4 ATS) continues its West Coast road trip against Los Angeles a night after playing Golden State. The Pistons entered that matchup with the Warriors with a 3-1 SU and ATS road record.

-Detroit has been winning its road endeavors by an average score of 99-93, helping the ‘over’ go 3-1.

-Los Angeles (7-0 SU, 6-1 ATS) remain the lone unbeaten team in the league after knocking off New Orleans Wednesday as a 1½-point road underdog, 93-86. The combined 179 points went ‘under’ the 196 ½-point closing total, ending a string of three straight ‘over’ outings.

-Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher each poured in 20 points, while center Andrew Bynum contributed with 14 and eight rebounds versus the Hornets.

-Los Angeles is 3-0 SU and ATS at home, with the ‘over’ going 2-1. The Lakers have been winning those affairs by an average score of 104-82.

-Detroit is 3-1 SU and 2-2 ATS the previous four meetings with the Lakers, while the ‘under’ has cashed each time. The Pistons prevailed last year as a 7½-point home favorite, 90-89, while the Lakers won as a 3½-point home ‘dog, 103-91.

-Detroit guard Rodney Stuckey (illness) is expected to miss this matchup with the Lakers.

vegasinsider.com.

NBA News and Notes
By Matt Fargo

Matt Fargo takes a look at the upcoming NBA schedule and pulls out important matchups, injuries, news, notes and betting trends from around the league.

The Mavericks host Orlando on Friday and after going 104-19 at home over the previous three seasons, Dallas remains the only winless team at home at 0-3. The Mavericks have lost all three games by an average of 12 ppg but they have come against teams that are 18-5 and all of whom lead their respective divisions. They don’t catch a break against Orlando who is 5-3 but Dallas has swept the season series the last two years. Dallas has won the last 10 meetings at home but Orlando is 6-2 ATS the last eight meetings.

Chicago is banged up and things are not looking good toward the future. On Saturday, the Bulls host Indiana which is their final game before their annual November lengthy roadtrip because of the circus coming to town. The Bulls will play seven straight road games in a span of 13 days before heading back home in December. You would think the final home game would spark some motivation but the Bulls are just 3-5 SU and 4-4 ATS in this final game including a 30-point loss last season against Toronto.

Portland was happy to see Greg Oden back on Wednesday even though he played just 16 minutes, scoring three points and hauling down two boards. He will become more of a factor the healthier he gets and they will need him with a tough stretch coming up. The Blazers are feeling good about being 5-3 but 10 of their next 14 games are on the road including a game at New Orleans on Friday. The home team is 7-0 SU and ATS the last seven meetings and the Hornets will be hungry after three losses in four games.

Washington finally got into the win column with an impressive win over Utah on Wednesday despite getting outshot 43.4% to 40.8%. The Wizards had dropped their first five games of the season as the defense allowed 108.8 ppg. They gave up only 87 points to the Jazz and now have a home and home against Miami on Friday and Tuesday. The Heat have not hit triple digits in their last four games and Washington is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings including a sweep of Miami last season.

The Lakers are on a mission as they are now 7-0 and 6-1 against the number. They have a big test at home on Friday against the Pistons, a team that has given them fits over the years. Detroit defeated the Lakers in the 2003-04 NBA Finals and since then, Detroit is 6-2 against Los Angeles. They split the season series last year with the Lakers covering both. This starts a stretch of seven home games in the next eight contests for the Lakers who could jump ahead with a big lead in the Western Conference standings.

Every NBA team has covered at least two games through Wednesday with the exception of the Spurs and Clippers who meet on Monday in Los Angeles so something will have to give. The Clippers are just 1-7 as the offense has yet to get off the ground, averaging only 88.3 ppg, second worst in the NBA. The Spurs are an early season disappointment but injuries have taken their toll. A come-from-behind win against the Knicks looked as though as it might provide a spark but San Antonio lost in Milwaukee the following night.

Tips and Trends

Denver Nuggets at Boston Celtics

Nuggets: Denver suffered its first loss following three straight wins with new point guard Chauncey Billups even though he had his best game with the team in a 110-99 setback at Cleveland on Thursday. Billups scored 16 of his season-high 26 points in the first quarter against the Cavs on 6-of-7 shooting as the team shot 74 percent (14-of-19) in the opening 12 minutes. But he took just six shots the rest of the way and dished out six assists with no turnovers.The Nuggets scored just 38 points in the second half after leading 61-58 at halftime.

Nuggets are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games vs. Atlantic Division.
The OVER is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings.

Key Injuries - F Kenyon Martin (wrist) is day-to-day.
C Chris Andersen (ribs) is OUT.

PROJECTED SCORE: 91

Celtics (-9.5, O/U 193): Boston star Paul Pierce has been playing with a nagging injury, but you wouldn't know that based on his recent performances. Pierce poured in 22 of his game-high 36 points in the fourth quarter of a 94-87 win over Toronto on Monday and then followed that up by scoring 34 and hitting the game-winning shot against Atlanta on Wednesday. “I’ve had this sprained hand for about a week,” Pierce said. “I just try not to think about it. It really (doesn’t) bother me. It just seems like when it starts getting better it gets hit again. I don’t really use it as an excuse because I’ve played through a number of injuries throughout my career and this one’s minor.”

Celtics are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games overall.
The OVER is 25-8 in Boston's last 33 games vs. Northwest Division.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: 101

Detroit Pistons at Los Angeles Lakers

Pistons: After losing the first two games with Allen Iverson, Detroit has bounced back to win the first two games of a four-game West Coast road trip. Iverson dished out nine assists in each of the wins while averaging 26.5 points. Two Pistons who finally got going on Thursday in a 107-102 win over the Warriors were Rasheed Wallace and Rip Hamilton, who scored a combined 43 points. The duo had totaled 37 points between them in the previous two games.

Pistons are 11-4-1 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
The UNDER is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

Key Injuries - G Rodney Stuckey (dizziness) is OUT.

PROJECTED SCORE: 89 (UNDER - Total Play of the Day)

Lakers (-9.5, O/U 193): Defense is the main reason LA is the lone unbeaten team in the NBA at 7-0, as no opponent has managed to score 100 points yet. The Lakers built a 51-30 halftime lead at New Orleans on Wednesday before weathering a comeback by the Hornets and holding on for a 93-86 victory. They have allowed an average of just 86.7 points per game so far, which ranks best in the league ahead of the defending champion Celtics. The return of Andrew Bynum and Trevor Ariza from injuries has given LA additional stoppers this season, and some insiders believe that could be the difference in closing the gap with Boston this year.

Lakers are 6-1 ATS this season.
Lakers are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 home games.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: 99

PHILADELPHIA (3 - 5) at INDIANA (4 - 3)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 5-2 against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 5-2 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

UTAH (6 - 2) at CHARLOTTE (2 - 5)
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 39-21 ATS (+15.9 Units) after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.
CHARLOTTE is 24-36 ATS (-15.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHARLOTTE is 2-2 against the spread versus UTAH over the last 3 seasons
CHARLOTTE is 2-2 straight up against UTAH over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

ATLANTA (6 - 1) at NEW JERSEY (2 - 5)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW JERSEY is 5-2 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY is 5-2 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

WASHINGTON (1 - 5) at MIAMI (4 - 4)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 5-2 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 5-3 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

OKLAHOMA CITY (1 - 7) at NEW YORK (5 - 3)
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 57-36 ATS (+17.4 Units) in home games versus poor offensive teams - scoring <=91 points/game since 1996.
NEW YORK is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 2-2 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 3-1 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

MILWAUKEE (4 - 5) at MEMPHIS (3 - 6)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 3-1 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
MILWAUKEE is 4-0 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

DENVER (4 - 4) at BOSTON (8 - 1)
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 96-135 ATS (-52.5 Units) when playing on back-to-back days since 1996.
BOSTON is 71-45 ATS (+21.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 52-37 ATS (+11.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 27-11 ATS (+14.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 35-18 ATS (+15.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 2-2 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 2-2 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

PORTLAND (5 - 3) at NEW ORLEANS (4 - 3)
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 59-41 ATS (+13.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 43-28 ATS (+12.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 33-19 ATS (+12.1 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) in a home game where where the total is between 190 and 194.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PORTLAND is 4-3 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
PORTLAND is 4-3 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

HOUSTON (5 - 3) at SAN ANTONIO (2 - 5)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 294-242 ATS (+27.8 Units) in home games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 50-29 ATS (+18.1 Units) in home games after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 132-100 ATS (+22.0 Units) after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.
HOUSTON is 267-216 ATS (+29.4 Units) in road games since 1996.
HOUSTON is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 5-3 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 4-4 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
7 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

ORLANDO (5 - 3) at DALLAS (2 - 6)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 2-2 against the spread versus ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 4-0 straight up against ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

PHOENIX (6 - 3) at SACRAMENTO (4 - 5)
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 178-223 ATS (-67.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
SACRAMENTO is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in home games in November games over the last 3 seasons.
SACRAMENTO is 102-71 ATS (+23.9 Units) in home games first half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 6-2 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 7-1 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

DETROIT (6 - 2) at LA LAKERS (7 - 0)
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAKERS are 63-45 ATS (+13.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 24-13 ATS (+9.7 Units) first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 61-46 ATS (+10.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 61-41 ATS (+15.9 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 38-23 ATS (+12.7 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in road games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 2-2 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 3-1 straight up against LA LAKERS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

PHILADELPHIA vs. INDIANA
Philadelphia is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Indiana
Philadelphia is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing Indiana
Indiana is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Indiana's last 9 games at home

UTAH vs. CHARLOTTE
Utah is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Utah's last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Charlotte's last 8 games when playing Utah
Charlotte is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 games at home

ATLANTA vs. NEW JERSEY
Atlanta is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
New Jersey is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games when playing at home against Atlanta
New Jersey is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Atlanta

OKLAHOMA CITY vs. NEW YORK
Oklahoma City is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Oklahoma City's last 7 games when playing New York
New York is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games at home
New York is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games at home

WASHINGTON vs. MIAMI
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami
Washington is 8-14-3 ATS in its last 25 games when playing Miami
Miami is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Miami is 7-17 SU in its last 24 games

DENVER vs. BOSTON
Denver is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Boston
Denver is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 games
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

MILWAUKEE vs. MEMPHIS
Milwaukee is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Milwaukee is 4-13 SU in its last 17 games
Memphis is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Milwaukee
Memphis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Milwaukee

PORTLAND vs. NEW ORLEANS
Portland is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
Portland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
New Orleans is 17-6-1 ATS in its last 24 games at home
New Orleans is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home

HOUSTON vs. SAN ANTONIO
Houston is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing San Antonio
Houston is 6-17 SU in its last 23 games when playing San Antonio
San Antonio is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Houston
San Antonio is 17-6 SU in its last 23 games when playing Houston

ORLANDO vs. DALLAS
Orlando is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Dallas
Orlando is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Dallas
Dallas is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Orlando
Dallas is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Orlando

PHOENIX vs. SACRAMENTO
Phoenix is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Phoenix is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Sacramento is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Phoenix
Sacramento is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games when playing Phoenix

DETROIT vs. LA LAKERS
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Detroit is 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games when playing LA Lakers
LA Lakers are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games when playing at home against Detroit
LA Lakers are 9-3 SU in their last 12 games when playing at home against Detroit

Denver (4-4, 6-2 ATS) at Boston (8-1, 4-5 ATS)

The Celtics will try to make it seven straight wins when they welcome the Nuggets to TD Banknorth Garden in Boston.

The Celtics stretched their winning streak to six with Wednesday’s dramatic 103-102 home win over the Hawks as Paul Pierce hit the game-winner with 0.5 seconds left. The victory ended Atlanta’s six-game winning streak to start the season, but the Celtics came nowhere near covering the 10½-point spread. Boston is a perfect 5-0 at home this season but just 1-4 ATS.

Denver went to Cleveland last night and dropped a 110-99 decision to the Cavs, coming up short as a six-point underdog. The loss snapped the Nuggets’ three-game SU and ATS winning streak, all coming after the arrival of Chauncey Billups in the trade for Allen Iverson.

The home team is on a 7-0 SU and ATS roll in this series, and the winner has scored at least 116 points in each of the last four. Last year, Boston got a 119-93 win in Beantown as a 6½-point favorite and then the Nuggets returned the favor in a 124-118 win in Denver as a one-point chalk.

Denver is on ATS streaks of 6-2 ovreall, 8-0 against teams from the Atlantic Division, 4-1 against the Eastern Conference and 13-3 in Friday contests. Boston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five home games, but otherwise the Celtics are on positive ATS runs of 11-5 overall, 35-16 against the Western Conference, 17-8 against teams from the Northwest Division and 5-2 when playing after a day off.

For the Nuggets, the over is 35-16 in their last 51 Friday contests and 8-3 in their last 11 against the Eastern Conference, but the under is 12-5 in their last 17 overall. Boston has topped the total in 25 of its last 33 against the Northwest Division and the over is 4-0 in its last four against teams with a winning record. Also, the over is 6-0 in the last six Nuggets-Celtics clashes.

ATS ADVANTAGE: BOSTON and OVER

Houston (5-3, 3-5 ATS) at San Antonio (2-5, 1-6 ATS)

The Rockets wrap up a five-game road trip tonight in the AT&T Center in San Antonio trying to snap the home team’s four-game winning streak in this battle between Lone Star State rivals.

The host won all four meetings between these two last season with Houston getting the cash in three of the four. The four-game streak by the home team comes after a six-game winning streak by the visitor (5-1 ATS). The Rockets are 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings with the Spurs, and they have gotten the cash in five of their last six visits to San Antonio.

Houston is 2-2 (SU and ATS) so far on its road trip and come in off Wednesday’s 94-82 win in Phoenix as a 3½-point underdog. The Rockets got 27 points from Tracy McGrady in the win that was marred by an on-court shoving match between the Suns’ Matt Barnes and Houston’s Rafer Alston.

San Antonio has alternated wins and losses in its last four after opening the season with three straight defeats. The Spurs fell in Milwaukee on Wednesday 82-78 as 2½-point underdogs. Gregg Popovich’s team is just 1-3 SU and ATS at home this season with the lone win being Tuesday’s 92-80 triumph over the Knicks as a 4½-point chalk.

Houston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five games after a straight-up win and 1-4 ATS in its last five when playing after a day off, but the Rockets are 22-7 ATS in their last 29 Friday contests. Meanwhile, the Spurs have been a bad bet lately, currently on ATS slides of 1-8 overall, 1-4 at home, 0-6 against Western Conference squads and 1-5 after a non-cover.

For the Rockets, the over is 5-2 in their last seven against Southwest Division foes, but the under is 7-2 in their last nine after a spread-cover and 6-2 in their last eight after a day off. The Spurs carry under trends of 13-3 overall, 7-1 at home, 21-8-1 against the Southwest Division, 10-3 against the Western Conference and 8-1 after an off day.

Finally, the under is 22-6 in the last 28 Rockets-Spurs meetings and 6-1 in the last seven clashes in San Antonio.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Detroit (6-2, 4-4 ATS) at L.A. Lakers (7-0, 6-1 ATS)

The Lakers will try to remain the NBA’s only unbeaten team when they host the Pistons inside the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles has been impressive at both ends of the court during its perfect start to the season, with the offense averaging 104.7 points a game and the defense yielding just 86.7 points per contest, holding all seven opponents under triple digits. The Lakers had their worst offensive output on Wednesday in New Orleans, but still cruised to a 93-86 victory as 1½-point road ‘dogs, their fourth straight spread-cover.

Detroit opened the season with five straight wins and then proceeded to lose two straight after acquiring Allen Iverson from the Nuggets for Chauncey Billups in an exchange of point guards. But the Pistons have rebounded to win two straight on the West Coast – a 100-92 victory in Sacramento on Tuesday as 7½-point favorites and a 107-102 triumph last night in Oakland, cashing as a 4½-point chalk.

Detroit has scored 100 points or more in each of its six wins and the Pistons have allowed only three opponents to reach triple digits.

The home team is 8-2 SU in the last 10 meetings between these teams, but the Lakers got the cash in both outings last season, winning 103-91 in Los Angeles as a 3½-point favorite, then cashing as 8½-point ‘dogs in a 90-89 loss in Motown. However, the Pistons are 11-4-1 ATS in the last 16 series clashes.

The Pistons are on ATS streaks of 6-1 on the road, 7-1 against the Western Conference and 5-0 against teams from the Pacific Division. Los Angeles has failed to cash in nine straight games against the Eastern Conference, including last year’s NBA Finals series against Boston. On the bright side, the Lakers are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 at home.

The under is 13-3 in Detroit’s last 16 games when playing on the second night of a back-to-back situation, but the over is 6-1 in its last seven on the road and 6-2 in its last eight overall. For the Lakers, the over is 11-5 in their last 16 on Friday, but otherwise, L.A. is on under streaks of 6-2 when they get a day off and 38-15-1 against teams from the Central Division. In this rivalry, the under is 4-0 in the last four meetings overall and 7-3 in the last 10 battles at Staples Center.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Gametimepicks.com

Hot Teams
-- Pacers won their last three games, allowing 88,7 ppg.
-- Utah won six of its first eight games.
-- Hawks won six of their first seven games, losing by one in Boston.
-- Miami won three of first four at home, are 1-1 as home favorite.
-- Knicks won four of their last five games.
-- Milwaukee covered its last four road games.
-- Denver won three of its last four games. Celtics won last six games, but covered just one of last four.
-- Portland won its last four games, three by 8+ points.
-- Magic won five of their last six games.
-- Suns won four of their first five road games. Kings won four of their last five games, overall- they're 3-1 at home.
-- Pistons won six of their first eight games, are 2-2 with Iverson. Lakers won and covered their first seven games of season.

Cold Teams
-- 76ers lost three of their last four games.
-- Bobcats lost four of their last five games.
-- Nets lost three in row, five of last six games.
-- Wizards lost five of their first six games.
-- Thunder lost last five games, but are 3-0 vs spread on the road.
-- Grizzlies lost last three games, by 10-5-29 points.
-- Hornets lost three of their last four games.
-- Rockets are 0-3 vs spread in game following a win. Spurs lost five of their first seven games.
-- Mavericks lost their last four games, allowing 103.8 ppg.

Totals
-- Under is 6-2 in Philadelphia's first eight games.
-- Under is 6-0-1 in Charlotte games this season.
-- Under is 5-2 in Nets' first seven games.
-- Five of Miami's first seven games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 5-2 in New York's last seven games.
-- Three of last four Memphis games went over the total.
-- Six of first nine Boston games stayed under the total.
-- Last four New Orleans games stayed under the total; six of Blazers' last seven games went over it.
-- Last three San Antonio games stayed under the total.
-- Three of last four Dallas games went over the total.
-- Over is 4-2-1 in Sacramento's last seven games.
-- Over is 5-2-1 in Pistons' first eight games this season.