NBA News and Notes Monday 1/18

Dallas (26-14, 18-22 ATS) at Boston (27-11, 17-21 ATS)

The slumping Mavericks make their way to TD Banknorth Garden in Boston for a matchup with the Celtics in the second game of their five-game road trip.

Dallas opened its trek in Toronto on Sunday and got stomped 110-88 as a one-point road favorite. The Mavs have dropped three of four overall (0-4 ATS) and they are having trouble stopping teams lately, giving up 103 points a game and 48.7 percent shooting in their last five games. On the highway, Dallas is 13-7 SU and ATS but just 2-3 SU and ATS in its last five.

Boston has alternated wins and losses in its last six games and most recently dropped a 96-83 decision at home to the Bulls on Thursday, failing as a 6½-point favorite. The Celtics have lost two straight at home (SU and ATS) and they are just 11-6 (6-11 ATS) in Beantown, where they are giving up 94.1 points a game and allowing the opposition to shoot 44.5 percent shooting.

The Celtics have won four in a row (SU and ATS) against the Mavericks, including a 124-100 blowout at home last January, easily cashing as a nine-point favorite. Boston is 7-1 ATS in the last eight series clashes dating back to the 2005 season.

Dallas is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 road games, but otherwise is on ATS slides of 1-6 overall, 1-5 on the second day of a back-to-back and 1-6 on Mondays. The Celtics have cashed in 15 of 21 against Southwest Division teams, but they are on ATS skids of 3-9 at home, 1-4 against the Western Conference, 0-6 on Monday and 0-4 at home against teams with winning road records.

For the Mavericks, the “over” is on runs of 5-2 overall, 5-1 against Atlantic Division teams, 21-9 against the Eastern Conference and 6-2 on the second day of a back-to-back. Boston has topped the total in six of eight overall, but the under is 23-10-1 in its last 34 on Monday. In this series, the “over” has been the play in four of the past five matchups in Beantown.

ATS ADVANTAGE: BOSTON

Orlando (26-14, 20-20 ATS) at L.A. Lakers (31-9, 18-22 ATS)

The Magic conclude their four-game West Coast road trip with a stop at the Staples Center in Los Angeles for an NBA Finals rematch with the Lakers.

Orlando, just 2-6 SU and ATS in its last eight overall, is 1-2 SU and ATS on this trip, beating Sacramento 109-88 on Tuesday as a four-point chalk, but falling in Denver (115-97 as a 5½-point pup) and losing in Portland on Friday (102-87 as a 5½-point favorite). The Magic have dropped four of their last five on the road (SU and ATS) and manage just 98.3 points a game on the highway.

After losing three of four SU and ATS, the Lakers have rallied to win back-to-back games, beating the Mavericks 100-95 on Wednesday as six-point ‘dogs, then crushing the Clippers 126-86 on Friday night as 10½-point favorites. In Friday’s victory, Kobe Bryant poured in 30 points, with Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol chipping in with 20 points each and a combined 13 rebounds. Los Angeles is 22-3 at home this season, but a mediocre 12-12-1 ATS.

In last season’s NBA Finals, the Lakers needed just five games (4-1 ATS) to dispatch the Magic, including two wins in Los Angeles (1-1 ATS). The underdog brings a 10-1 ATS mark into this matchup, and Orlando is on a 4-1 ATS run in its last four trips to Staples Center to face the Lakers (playoffs included)..

The Magic are on ATS slides of 2-6 overall, 1-5 on the road, 2-8 on Monday and 3-8 against winning teams, but they have cashed in 15 of 21 against Pacific Division teams and 60 of 90 following a straight-up loss. Los Angeles is 0-5 ATS in its last five Monday contests and just 6-13 ATS in its last 19 against Southeast Division teams, but the Lakers have covered in four straight at home.

Orlando is on a plethora of “under” streaks, including 4-1 overall, 4-0 when it gets two days off, 4-1 against the Western Conference, 24-8 after a non-cover, 8-3 against Pacific Division teams and 9-4 on Monday. The Lakers are on “under” runs of 18-7-1 against Eastern Conference squads, 16-5 after getting two days off, 7-3 against the Southeast Division, 14-6-1 following a spread-cover and 5-1 against winning clubs. In this series, the under is on streaks of 5-1 overall and 4-0 in Los Angeles.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Monday's Best NBA Bets

Sacramento Kings at Charlotte Bobcats (-7, 196.5)

Three weeks ago the Kings were two games under .500 and were the biggest surprises in the league. But Sacramento hit a rough spot before after the New Year and has dropped eight of its last nine games.

During a 10-point setback to the Wizards, Kings rookie small forward Omri Casspi was seen arguing with coach Paul Westpal about playing time. That’s not a great sign.

And despite the return of sharp-shooting guard Kevin Martin, the Kings are having a difficult time filling the hoop. Sacramento is averaging just 86.6 points over its last three games and the under has cashed in each of the team’s last seven contests.

"We're a team that really believes in our ability to make baskets, and that has been letting us down lately," Westphal told the Sacramento Bee. "We were getting a lot of shots for various people, but we couldn't convert inside again. They were too big for us in a lot of ways. You've got to make shots. Thirty-seven percent is not going to get it done."

Adding to the reasons for the Kings' fade is their inability to play well away from home. Sacramento is just 3-15 straight up on the road this season.

That’s not going to cut it against a hot Bobcats team.

Pick: Charlotte

New Jersey Nets at Los Angeles Clippers (NA)

Are the Clippers cursed? That’s the question everyone is asking after news broke rookie Blake Griffin would not make his NBA debut until next season. The 2009 No. 1 overall pick is still recovering from a troublesome knee.

The Clips got blown out by the Lakers on Friday night but bounced back with a near-upset of the Cavs the following night. The club has dropped four in a row but has covered in eight of its last 10 games.

L.A. backers are hoping to see Clippers center Chris Kaman back on the floor Monday night. Kaman, who leads his team in scoring, was absent in each of the Clips last four games because of a sore back.

Look for the Clippers to put away the sad-sack Nets on Monday night, with or without Kaman.

Pick: Los Angeles

Detroit Pistons vs. New York Knicks

The fans at Madison Square Garden will be treated to a game between the Detroit Pistons and the New York Knicks when they take their seats on Monday.

The Pistons hung on for a 94-90 win over the Knicks at The Palace of Auburn Hills Saturday night.

Detroit covered as a 1-point home favorite while the final score played UNDER the 194.5-point total.

Current streak:
Detroit has won 3 straight games.
New York has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
Detroit: 14-25 SU, 18-20-1 ATS
New York: 16-24 SU, 19-21 ATS

Detroit most recently:
When playing on Monday are 3-7
Before playing Boston are 6-4
After playing New York are 7-3
After a win are 7-3

New York most recently:
When playing on Monday are 5-5
Before playing LA Lakers are 2-8
After playing Detroit are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New York's last 7 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of New York's last 11 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New York's last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit
New York is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 games when playing at home against Detroit

Next up:
Detroit home to Boston, Wednesday, January 20
New York home to LA Lakers, Friday, January 22

Portland Trail Blazers vs. Washington Wizards

The Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards will both be trying to pick up a win on Monday when they battle at Verizon Center.

The Trail Blazers jumped out to an early lead and went on to upset the Magic 102-87 on Friday, as 5.5-point underdogs. That game's 189 points went UNDER the posted total of 194.

Martell Webster led the way with 24 points and nine rebounds. Andre Miller finished with 19 points and dished out nine assists.

The Wizards continue to persevere without Gilbert Arenas, picking up a 96-86 win over the Kings at the Verizon Center Saturday.

Washington covered as a 1.5-point home underdog while the final score played UNDER the 209-point total.

Current streak:
Portland has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Portland: 25-16 SU, 22-18-1 ATS
Washington: 13-26 SU, 15-24 ATS

Portland most recently:
When playing on Monday are 5-5
Before playing Philadelphia are 8-2
After playing Orlando are 6-4
After a win are 6-4

Washington most recently:
When playing on Monday are 6-4
Before playing Dallas are 3-7
After playing Sacramento are 3-7
After a win are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Portland's last 8 games when playing Washington
Portland is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Portland's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Portland's last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Washington's last 8 games when playing Portland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington's last 6 games when playing at home against Portland
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games

Next up:
Portland at Philadelphia, Wednesday, January 20
Washington home to Dallas, Wednesday, January 20

Sacramento Kings vs. Charlotte Bobcats

The Sacramento Kings and the Charlotte Bobcats will both be trying to pick up a win on Monday when they battle at Time Warner Cable Arena.

The Kings couldn't take advantage of the reeling Wizards, losing 96-86 at the Verizon Center Saturday.

Washington covered as a 1.5-point home underdog while the final score played UNDER the 209-point total.

The Bobcats got 29-point performances from Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson in a 125-99 over the Suns at Time Warner Cable Arena Saturday.

Charlotte covered as a 3-point home favorite while the final score played OVER the 208.5-point total.

Current streak:
Sacramento has lost 3 straight games.
Charlotte has won 4 straight games.

Team records:
Sacramento: 15-24 SU, 19-18-2 ATS
Charlotte: 19-19 SU, 24-14 ATS

Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Monday are 4-6
Before playing Atlanta are 4-6
After playing Washington are 5-5
After a loss are 3-7

Charlotte most recently:
When playing on Monday are 2-8
Before playing Miami are 2-8
After playing Phoenix are 2-8
After a win are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Sacramento's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Sacramento's last 8 games on the road
Sacramento is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Sacramento is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Charlotte
Charlotte is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Charlotte is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Sacramento
Charlotte is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Charlotte is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Sacramento

Next up:
Sacramento at Atlanta, Wednesday, January 20
Charlotte home to Miami, Wednesday, January 20

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Atlanta Hawks

The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Atlanta Hawks will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at Philips Arena.

Kevin Durant picked up a double-double, leading the Thunder to a 98-80 win over the Heat at the Ford Center Saturday.

Oklahoma City covered as a 4-point home favorite while the final score played UNDER the 194-point total.

Al Horford dropped 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds as the Hawks defeated the Suns 102-101 on Friday. The Hawks failed to cover the 5.5-point spread, while the 203 points went UNDER the posted total of 216.

Jamal Crawford had 21 points for the Hawks, and Josh Smith chipped in with 20 in the win.

Current streak:
Atlanta has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Oklahoma City: 22-18 SU, 24-16 ATS
Atlanta: 26-13 SU, 26-13 ATS

Oklahoma City most recently:
When playing on Monday are 2-8
Before playing Minnesota are 2-8
After playing Miami are 6-4
After a win are 5-5

Atlanta most recently:
When playing on Monday are 5-5
Before playing Sacramento are 3-7
After playing Phoenix are 2-8
After a win are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
Oklahoma City is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Oklahoma City is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing Atlanta
Oklahoma City is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Atlanta is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing Oklahoma City

Next up:
Oklahoma City at Minnesota, Wednesday, January 20
Atlanta home to Sacramento, Wednesday, January 20

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Houston Rockets

The Milwaukee Bucks and the Houston Rockets will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at Toyota Center.

The Bucks were out-muscled under the basket, losing 112-95 to the Jazz at EnergySolutions Arena Saturday.

Utah covered as a 10.5-point home favorite while the final score played OVER the 195-point total.

The Rockets were defeated 115-106 by the Heat last time out, as 4-point favorites. That game's 221 points sailed OVER the posted total of 194.

Luis Scola and Chase Budinger had 17 points apiece in the loss.

Team records:
Milwaukee: 16-22 SU, 20-18 ATS
Houston: 22-18 SU, 21-19 ATS

Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Monday are 2-8
Before playing Toronto are 4-6
After playing Utah are 6-4
After a loss are 3-7

Houston most recently:
When playing on Monday are 5-5
Before playing San Antonio are 5-5
After playing Miami are 6-4
After a loss are 8-2

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Milwaukee's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 7 games
Milwaukee is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Milwaukee is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Houston
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
Houston is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
Houston is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games

Next up:
Milwaukee home to Toronto, Wednesday, January 20
Houston at San Antonio, Friday, January 22

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Philadelphia 76ers and the Minnesota Timberwolves will both be gunning for a victory on
The 76ers took over in the fourth quarter and came back to defeat the Kings 98-86 on Friday.

The 76ers covered the 3-point spread, while the teams played UNDER the posted total of 209.5.

Samuel Dalembert collected a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds for the 76ers, while Thaddeus Young finished with 20 points in the win.

The Timberwolves were torn apart 135-110 on Friday, as 7.5-point underdogs. That game's 240 points sailed OVER the posted total of 209.5.

Corey Brewer tossed in 22 points and Al Jefferson netted 21 in a losing effort.

Current streak:
Minnesota has lost 4 straight games.

Team records:
Philadelphia: 13-26 SU, 17-22 ATS
Minnesota: 8-33 SU, 19-21-1 ATS

Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Monday are 4-6
Before playing Portland are 4-6
After playing Sacramento are 4-6
After a win are 2-8

Minnesota most recently:
When playing on Monday are 2-8
Before playing Oklahoma City are 3-7
After playing Memphis are 2-8
After a loss are 2-8

A few trends to consider:
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Philadelphia is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Minnesota is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
Minnesota is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia

Next up:
Philadelphia home to Portland, Wednesday, January 20
Minnesota home to Oklahoma City, Wednesday, January 20

San Antonio Spurs vs. New Orleans Hornets

If familiarity breeds contempt, there should be animosity aplenty on Monday when the San Antonio Spurs and the New Orleans Hornets meet at New Orleans Arena.

The Spurs were beat up on the boards by the Grizzlies, losing 92-86 at FedExForum Saturday.

Memphis covered as a 1.5-point home favorite while the final score played UNDER the 200.5-point total.

David West scored 24 points to lead the Hornets to a 101-96 win over the Pacers at Conseco Fieldhouse Saturday.

New Orleans covered as a 2.5-point road underdog while the final score played UNDER the 208-point total.

Current streak:
San Antonio has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
San Antonio: 24-15 SU, 20-18-1 ATS
New Orleans: 21-18 SU, 19-20 ATS

San Antonio most recently:
When playing on Monday are 4-6
Before playing Utah are 4-6
After playing Memphis are 6-4
After a loss are 6-4

New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Monday are 8-2
Before playing Memphis are 9-1
After playing Indiana are 5-5
After a win are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Antonio's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Antonio's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Antonio's last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
San Antonio is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing New Orleans
New Orleans is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
New Orleans is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against San Antonio
New Orleans is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against San Antonio
New Orleans is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games

Next up:
San Antonio home to Utah, Wednesday, January 20
New Orleans home to Memphis, Wednesday, January 20

New Jersey Nets vs. Los Angeles Clippers

The New Jersey Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at STAPLES Center.

The Nets were ripped apart 121-105 by the Pacers on Friday, as 2.5-point underdogs. That game's 226 points sailed OVER the posted total of 207.5.

Brook Lopez had 27 points with seven rebounds for the Nets in the loss.

The Clippers nearly knocked off the Cavaliers, falling 102-101 at the STAPLES Center Saturday.

Los Angeles covered as an 8.5-point home underdog while the final score played OVER the 196-point total.

Current streak:
New Jersey has lost 7 straight games.
Los Angeles has lost 4 straight games.

Team records:
New Jersey: 3-36 SU, 13-25-1 ATS
Los Angeles: 17-22 SU, 18-21 ATS

New Jersey most recently:
When playing on Monday are 3-7
Before playing Phoenix are 4-6
After playing Indiana are 3-7
After a loss are 1-9

Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Monday are 3-7
Before playing Chicago are 5-5
After playing Cleveland are 6-4
After a loss are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Jersey's last 7 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Jersey's last 6 games when playing LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Jersey's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Jersey's last 6 games on the road
LA Clippers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games at home
LA Clippers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against New Jersey
LA Clippers are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of the LA Clippers last 7 games when playing at home against New Jersey

Next up:
New Jersey at Phoenix, Wednesday, January 20
LA Clippers home to Chicago, Wednesday, January 20

Chicago Bulls vs. Golden State Warriors

The Chicago Bulls and the Golden State Warriors will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at Oracle Arena.

Derrick Rose poured in 37 points with nine rebounds as the Bulls defeated the Wizards 121-119 on Friday. The Bulls failed to cover the 6-point spread, while the 240 points sailed OVER the posted total of 198.

Kirk Hinrich netted 19 points for the Bulls, while Joakim Noah and Luol Deng added 17 points apiece in the win.

The Warriors were upset 113-104 by the Bucks on Friday, as 3.5-point favorites. That game's 217 points went UNDER the posted total of 217.5.

Corey Maggette netted 32 points with nine rebounds and six assists, while Monta Ellis collected a game-high 33 points in the loss.

Current streak:
Chicago has won 4 straight games.
Golden State has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Chicago: 18-20 SU, 17-19-2 ATS
Golden State: 11-27 SU, 20-17-1 ATS

Chicago most recently:
When playing on Monday are 4-6
Before playing LA Clippers are 2-8
After playing Washington are 3-7
After a win are 7-3

Golden State most recently:
When playing on Monday are 5-5
Before playing Denver are 5-5
After playing Milwaukee are 4-6
After a loss are 2-8

A few trends to consider:
Chicago is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Chicago is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Golden State
Chicago is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Chicago is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Golden State is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Golden State's last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
Golden State is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games
Golden State is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games when playing at home against Chicago

Next up:
Chicago at LA Clippers, Wednesday, January 20
Golden State home to Denver, Wednesday, January 20

Phoenix Suns vs. Memphis Grizzlies

The Phoenix Suns and the Memphis Grizzlies will both be trying to pick up a win on Monday when they battle at FedExForum.

The Suns were beat up by the Bobcats, losing 125-99 at Time Warner Cable Arena Saturday.

Charlotte covered as a 3-point home favorite while the final score played OVER the 208.5-point total.

The Grizzlies got double figures from four starters in a 92-86 win over the Spurs at FedExForum Saturday.

Memphis covered as a 1.5-point home favorite while the final score played UNDER the 200.5-point total.

Current streak:
Phoenix has lost 3 straight games.
Memphis has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Phoenix: 24-17 SU, 22-18-1 ATS
Memphis: 21-18 SU, 22-17 ATS

Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Monday are 6-4
Before playing New Jersey are 8-2
After playing Charlotte are 6-4
After a loss are 7-3

Memphis most recently:
When playing on Monday are 7-3
Before playing New Orleans are 4-6
After playing San Antonio are 4-6
After a win are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
Phoenix is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games when playing Memphis
Phoenix is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Memphis
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Phoenix's last 10 games when playing Memphis
Phoenix is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Memphis
Memphis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Memphis is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Memphis's last 10 games when playing Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Memphis's last 12 games

Next up:
Phoenix home to New Jersey, Wednesday, January 20
Memphis at New Orleans, Wednesday, January 20

Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics

The Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at TD Garden.

The Mavericks lost to Toronto 110-88 as a pick'em on Sunday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (206.5).

Dirk Nowitzki led Dallas with 19 points and Jason Terry netted 18 points.

The Celtics were upset 96-83 by the Bulls last time out, as 6.5-point favorites. The game's 179 points went UNDER the posted total of 194.5.

Kendrick Perkins collected a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Celtics in the loss.

Team records:
Dallas: 26-14 SU, 18-22 ATS
Boston: 27-11 SU, 17-21 ATS

Dallas most recently:
When playing on Monday are 8-2
Before playing Washington are 7-3
After playing Toronto are 6-4
After a loss are 8-2

Boston most recently:
When playing on Monday are 6-4
Before playing Detroit are 8-2
After playing Chicago are 7-3
After a loss are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
Dallas is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Dallas's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Dallas's last 7 games on the road
Boston is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Dallas
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston's last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Boston's last 8 games

Next up:
Dallas at Washington, Wednesday, January 20
Boston at Detroit, Wednesday, January 20

Orlando Magic vs. Los Angeles Lakers

The Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at STAPLES Center.

The Magic were defeated 102-87 by the Trail Blazers last time out, as 5.5-point favorites. That game's 189 points went UNDER the posted total of 194.

Rashard Lewis shot 7-for-13 from the field with 15 points and five rebounds in the loss.

Kobe Bryant dropped 30 points to help the Lakers crush the Clippers 126-86 on Friday. The Lakers covered the 10.5-point spread, while the teams played OVER the posted total of 196.5.

Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol each poured in 20 points in that win.

Current streak:
Orlando has lost 2 straight games.
Los Angeles has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Orlando: 26-14 SU, 19-19-2 ATS
Los Angeles: 31-9 SU, 18-22 ATS

Orlando most recently:
When playing on Monday are 9-1
Before playing Indiana are 6-4
After playing Portland are 5-5
After a loss are 5-5

Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Monday are 7-3
Before playing Cleveland are 3-7
After playing LA Clippers are 7-3
After a win are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Orlando's last 7 games when playing on the road against LA Lakers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Orlando's last 6 games when playing LA Lakers
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games on the road
LA Lakers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games at home
LA Lakers are 12-2 SU in their last 14 games when playing at home against Orlando
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of the LA Lakers last 7 games when playing at home against Orlando
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Lakers last 6 games when playing Orlando

Next up:
Orlando home to Indiana, Wednesday, January 20
LA Lakers at Cleveland, Thursday, January 21

NBA RoundUp For 1/18
By Dan Bebe

Pistons @ Knicks - This line is OFF. That's a darn shame, because this game has some fun capping angles. For one, the last time these teams played was, well, Saturday, and we all know how tough it is for two evenly matched teams to play each other in two straight games. The ol' home-and-home. The Pistons narrowly nipped the Knicks in Detroit 94-90, but I'm feeling rather confident that the Knicks will deliver Detroit their just desserts. The question, obviously, is what line we see. Detroit was just a 1-point favorite at the closing line in Motown, so I wouldn't be surprised to see the Knicks as a 4-5 point favorite here at home, where they're starting to play better. The Knicks are starting a 5-game homestand, so it is a point of slight concern that they might be suffering from a little settling-in syndrome, but I think the revenge factor should counterbalance that sluggishness. I realize both teams have won one of the meetings this year, but this revenge is just about trying to split this home-and-home. Obviously, the larger issue in this one is that the Pistons bottomed out in Chicago, and have won 3 straight games since then, and are building confidence. The impending return of Ben Gordon should give them a little more firepower, too, something they desperately need if they're going to win away from home. Despite all this, and the fact that New York has lost 4 of 5 games, I still lean Knicks - I just don't believe they let Detroit sweep a home-and-home, since the relative skill level of the two teams is too close. I also think we'll learn more about the total based on what the oddsmakers set. Both games have gone Under so far this year, despite both totals being set between 193 and 195. If we see a total over 195, I'd lean Over; otherwise, we can reassess upon release.

Blazers @ Wizards - This line is OFF, too. I would guess it's because of Brandon Roy and his injured hamstring. Here's my take on this injury situation -- if Roy plays, this game is likely a pass. If he doesn't, I might take Washington. The Blazers cleaned Orlando's clock with Roy out, as Martell Webster stepped up in a big way, but these bench players are not accustomed to shouldering that kind of load, especially on the road, and I'd be extremely hesitant about backing the Blazers when some of that injury-news adrenaline wears off. Portland hits the road here for 4 games with the Eastern Conference (Morrison plays to fade?), off a 3-2 homestand that ended with 2 straight wins. This team is still banged up, though they're slowly getting guys back, and I almost wonder if all the injuries have forced Andre Miller to "play nice", which should improve the team in the long term. Washington is coming off an impressive 10-point over the Kings, who continue to just stink on the road, but Washington impressed me with this one. They were returning home off that 2OT loss in Chicago, but mustered the energy for a much-needed confidence-boosting win, and that's why I think Washington has some value here. I generally like backing a team on the 2nd game of a "long" (4+ game) homestand, as the players seem to settle into their surroundings in that 2nd game. I lean Washington, but let's make sure we'd be getting any value at all here before doing anything with it. The Wizards have been playing a ton of Unders, Portland has been playing a ton of Overs, this total is going to be difficult to decipher.

Kings @ Bobcats - Charlotte by 6 with a total of 196.5. This one "looks" like a no-brainer, which is exactly what makes me pause. Charlotte is beating the pants off just about anyone that comes to their building, winning all 4 games on their current 6-game homestand, and covering the last 3 by a combined 46 points. Needless to say, they're rolling. The Kings are doing just the opposite, losing both games on their current 6-game road trip, and they haven't shown much to make me think they're about to snap out of it. Charlotte is undoubtedly going to be the strong public choice here, but given that there are no revenge angles, and given that Charlotte doesn't have a look-ahead spot, I'm just not sure how Charlotte loses this game. So the question is whether the Bobcats can cover. I'm inclined to think they can, though again, I'm surprised this line isn't higher. Also worth noting is that the Kings have played, get this, 7 consecutive Unders. This number seems pretty high for the Bobcats, in particular. Charlotte has been scoring at will at home, and that's why I wouldn't immediately jump on the Under, but we know they don't want to get into a track meet, and a defensive game should lead to an easy Charlotte win, cover and an Under - now we just have to hope Charlotte can control the tempo. But given that Sacramento scores 8 points less on the road, and allows 1 point less, that's a strong Under indicator right there, and not surprisingly, the Kings are 11-9 O/U at home versus 7-11 O/U on the road.

Thunder @ Hawks - Atlanta by 6 with a total of 195.5. This doesn't seem like many points for the Hawks to be laying, and it seems like the Thunder are really starting to get some respect, and as a result, this is an incredibly difficult game to cap. The Hawks are coming off that miracle win over the Suns, but how do they follow up that performance? Do they squeeze by another opponent, do they use that as a springboard, or does it have zero impact? And what of the Thunder -- coming off an easy win over the Heat at home, and 2 straight covers (and 3 of 4 covers), do they continue to play solid basketball on the road, or is Atlanta the building that gives them trouble? Well, looking back, and I realize numbers from last year aren't hugely relevant, but the Thunder have covered most of their games with the Hawks in recent history. The Hawks have won many of them, but these teams tend to play close games, and games close to the spread. Last year, these teams played to a push in their first meeting, and the Thunder covered the second game by half a point. Both games were low scoring. I'm inclined to lean to the road team getting the points just because I like how Oklahoma is playing never-quit basketball, but I'd lean to the Under more than the side. Man, this is just not a game I feel confident about, flat out. Let's move on.

Bucks @ Rockets - Houston by 6.5 with a total of 197.5. Another game where I feel like the road team is getting fewer points than I'd expect. When I see the oddsmakers seemingly baiting people into liking the home team, I immediately look at the road club and see if I can convince myself my lean is wrong. Here, the Bucks conclude a painful 6-game road trip around the Western Conference, winning just their game in Golden State thus far (1-4 SU, 2-3 ATS). The Bucks are coming off a 17-point loss in Utah on the back end of a difficult altitude back-to-back, so you have to think the public has a poor perception of this team coming off that one, and you also have to think the Bucks stand a MUCH better chance of playing good ball against the Rockets. The ultimate key to this game is Andrew Bogut. Houston tends to struggle with opposing 7-footers due to their lack of size, and this is one of those teams, the Bucks, that matches up pretty well with the Rockets. Milwaukee has skilled guards and a skilled center, but not much in between besides a handful of "6th-man"-type wingmen (Delfino, Ilyasova, Mbah a Moute, etc.), nullifying Houston's strong defensive wing players. On the Rockets side, this is a team that is struggling, but doing so quietly. They've covered just 1 of their last 7 games, but have been able to squeeze out home wins in there over the Knicks and the Wolves, and I wonder if we can't get a bit of a jump on the public by fading the Rockets for one more game. I also like the Over, as the real problem for Houston has been a porous defense that has allowed 4 of 5 opponents to break 100. The Bucks are not a great offensive team, but if they can exploit the size advantage down low, I think Bogut can have a nice game. Still, relying on the center can slow the game down, so this total is a bit of a conundrum.

Sixers @ Timberwolves - Philly by 1.5 with a total of 205.5. This is another tough game to cap because neither team is truly the value play. Allow me to elaborate. The Wolves return home off a 4-game road trip; they lost all 4 games, but went 2-2 ATS, as this team has a tendency to do. Hell, the Wolves are 8-33 SU, but 20-21 ATS, so that just goes to show how often they've been able to lose by "not that much." Still, that first game home is never an easy one, and looking back at the Wolves schedule, the only other time this team came home off a road trip of 3 or more games, they got absolutely creamed by the Clippers. It's a lot to ask of the Wolves to cover, just getting 1.5 points, when they've won just 1 of their last 10 games. Still, isn't this just the exact time when the Wolves explode out for a monster win? Minnesota is coming off a 25-point loss in Memphis, so this team won't ever look much worse to bettors. I just don't know if that's enough, given all the situational angles that do not favor them. The Sixers, by the way, are playing their best ball of the season. They've won 3 of 4, covering all 3 wins, and they've held 3 straight opponents to 93-points or less. Samuel Dalembert, surprisingly, has been great (our prayers go out to Haiti, as a side note), and Philly is starting to play with a little confidence. We should also remember this team is actually stronger on the road than at home. Philly is 6-13 at home SU (4-15 ATS), and 7-13 SU on the road (13-7 ATS), so whatever points the home team is getting here is probably about double what they should be getting against the Sixers. I simply have to lean to Philly, despite how obvious it looks, and I like the Under, with Philly's recent strong defense, and Minnesota likely to be a little sluggish in their first game home, as noted above.

Nets @ Clippers - This line is OFF. Chris Kaman is the reason for our lack of line. I made something of a pact a few days back not to make the Nets a Paid Play at any point down the line, and I don't think this game is going to make me break that promise. The Nets are just so horrible, I can't even wrap my mind around it. They are 3-36 SU on the season, but have been so unbearably bad, they're just 13-26 ATS! Usually, you can get decent value betting on the teams that the public hates, but the Nets just aren't that club. They have not shown a good bounceback ability, even off some of their biggest losses on the season - in fact, they have shown almost no pattern whatsoever, outside of just being awful. The Clippers, on the other hand, are coming off an excellent performance, but came up just a point short of beating the vastly superior Cavaliers. My concern is the obvious one - coming off that disappointing loss to a marquee opponent, will the Clippers give a rat's ass about the Nets? Amazingly, I'm inclined to believe they will - this team knows they need whatever wins they can get, as they scratch and claw their way back near the edges of the playoff picture. The Clippers are probably still smarting a bit from that blowout loss to the Lakers, and without the win over the Cavs, I believe they'll still play like they have something to prove at home. I lean square again on this game, I like the home team. I also like the Over, since the Clips seem to shoot the ball exceedingly well at home, and don't defend with much confidence. If Kaman plays, that will be an added bonus.

Spurs @ Hornets - Spurs by a point with a total of 190.5. I'll lay it out right at the beginning here, I like the Hornets. For one, New Orleans is a VERY strong home team, posting an impressive 15-3 SU home record (10-8 ATS). The issue hasn't been winning at home, it has been covering the spreads of 6 or more. Here, we don't have that problem. The Spurs carry a 1-point price tag, and I still think this older team is a little tired. This is their 5th game in 7 nights, and since they've begun to fatigue, there's been an obvious trend to the ATS loss and the Under. The Spurs have been held to 76 and 86 points the last two games, both games staying well beneath the posted totals. The Hornets have been playing some higher-scoring games, but they'll need the Spurs' help if they're going to reach 190.5, so I'm leaning Under. A few more pieces of information on why I like the Hornets -- first, revenge. The Spurs beat the Hornets by 17 in San Antonio, and New Orleans, who has historically been very good against the Spurs AT HOME, should have some added motivation to pick up a win over a tired, old team. Also, this being a divisional rivalry, I think the Hornets will want to go after the leaders. San Antonio heads home after this game, so they may be looking ahead to their own beds, and getting some quality rest. Overall, strong feelings for the Hornets, mild feelings towards the Under.

Bulls @ Warriors - A Pick 'em with a total of 218.5. Another somewhat difficult game to cap, given the circumstances. The Warriors areso outrageously undermanned that they actually had to take a technical foul in their last contest with the Bucks because a player fouled out, and they were left with only 4 viable men. How on earth are we to expect this team to compete when they can't foul, they can't substitute, and they were already among the League's middling teams, so it's not like the 5 main characters in this story can get the job done. This is a revenge game for Golden State, but at the same time, can they really play with the Bulls, or anyone for that matter, for all 48 minutes. I'm inclined to think this game goes a great deal like the Warriors' last one -- they come out of the gates strong, try to build a lead while they have some energy, then slowly watch it dwindle as fatigue sets in, and the inability to play any real defense (because there are no substitutes if a guy gets in foul trouble) takes its toll. Based on this alone, I'm inclined to lean towards the road team, just because the Bulls are surging, they've won 4 straight, and the Warriors have lost 3 in a row. I think the most interesting number on this game is the total, though, as the contest between these two teams earlier this year ended 96-91 in favor of Chicago, landing a good 27 points beneath the set mark, and yet here, the posted total, despite the Warriors shorthanded roster, is 4 points HIGHER. I lean Over, and I lean to the Bulls at full strength, starting the 7-game monster road trip with a win.

Suns @ Grizzlies - Memphis by 2 with a total of 225. Boy, could the Suns look much worse? This is another spot where I'm concerned at how easy this line looks for the Grizzlies, but am I giving the public too much credit? Obviously, the general public has loved Phoenix for a few years, and in most cases, they'll back Phoenix blind, but the Suns haven't won but one road game in the last 50 days, and now they head into Memphis fresh off getting butchered by the Bobcats, a game they lost by 26, and were at some points down more than that. It just looks way too easy to back the Grizz. Do we not think Phoenix is going to bring some measure of malice into this one? The Grizzlies beat the piss out of them in Phoenix only a few short weeks ago, a 25-point road win for Memphis, and a true embarrassment for Phoenix. There's just no way the Suns, who have been nothing short of pathetic, are going to come into Memphis and just roll over. I can't say it's going to be a popular choice, but I think Phoenix brings the heat in this one. The Grizzlies have won 3 straight, and they've been beating good teams, so I expect folks to jump on them with reckless abandon. I lean Suns, and I shudder when I say it. On the total, games between these two teams have been obscenely high scoring, and I happen to think this one is marked fairly accurately. Both previous encounters have ended in the 230's, but this one is in Memphis for the first time, where I believe both teams shoot a slightly lower percentage, and where I believe the Grizzlies slow the tempo just enough to keep the game in the low-220's.

Mavs @ Celtics - This line is OFF. Now we get to find out if Dallas's look-ahead spot yesterday in Toronto was worth all the stinking in Canada. Hey, I'm not complaining, we got a very easy winner with the Raptors, but it was clear Dallas's heart was not in that game -- the early game time, the MLK Day showdown with the Garnett-less Celtics, the recent run of poor defense; whatever it was, Dallas looked terrible. I'm inclined to believe they do a decent job of bouncing back, but how decent is the question. Boston has destroyed the Mavericks over the last 3 years, which can be interpreted 2 ways -- either the Celtics have the Mavs' number, or Dallas is going to be looking for 3 years' worth of revenge. I feel like I shouldn't trust Dallas, but those have been the exact times they've stepped up and played a huge game. Still, watching the Mavs-Raptors game from start to finish showed me that Dallas isn't defending well, and they appear to be lacking in the scoring department. Dirk Nowitzki carried them as far as he could, but it just wasn't even close to enough, as the Raptors shot over 50% from the field for most of the game. Dallas has allowed over 100 points in 4 of the last 5 games, and 98 in the other one, which, to me, makes this game look like a potential Over opportunity. Boston has had 3 days to rest after losing to Chicago at home, and I expect them to show off their energy, and get to the foul line repeatedly. I like the Celtics just by a bit, and I think the Over is in play, but don't be fooled by screwy bet% numbers, because, as our good pal Guevones told us, there are a handful of Morrison plays on the table today, and we need to be very careful when interpreting line moves.

Magic @ Lakers - Lakers by 6.5 with a total of 201.5. You want to talk about a revenge spot? How about getting to go after the team that beat you in the Finals last year. The Magic are coming off a disappointing performance in Portland, but there as almost zero chance they weren't waiting patiently for a chance to get back at the Lakers. We are going to get the Magic's best in this one, and I love taking the dog here. I especially love that the Lakers are coming off a furious beating of the Clippers, a 40-point drubbing that makes the Lakeshow look, for lack of a better expression, like the best in the League. And hell, they might very well be the best again, but it's all about motivation here, and the Magic have a ton. They want to show they made offseason improvements, they guys that were there last year want to show they deserved to win a championship, and they want to do it in LA. The Lakers, on the other hand, just want to win on National TV, but they know they're the best, and as Marco always says, "No team is as good as their best performance." The Lakers aren't going to make every shot and win by 40 again. On the contrary, if the Lakers win, I think it will be a late surge, and I highly doubt it's by over 6 points. I actually like the fact that Orlando lost their last game, too, as I think we're getting an extra point because of each team's performance in their last contest. In terms of the total, I think we'll see this one go Under - I'm expecting a playoff atmosphere style game, with tight defense, and conservative referee activity.

Trend Report - Monday
By Ed Meyer

Kings at Bobcats – The Kings are 0-7 ATS (-5.4 ppg) since November 02, 2005 on the road with at most one day of rest after a road loss in which their DPS was minus 15 points or less. The Bobcats are 8-0 ATS (13.0 ppg) since November 10, 2004 after a double digit home win in which their DPS was at least plus 15 points.

Mavericks at Celtics – The Celtics are 0-9 ATS (-8.3 ppg) since November 03, 2006 when playing the second game of a two game homestand after losing the first. The Celtics are 0-8 ATS (-13.2 ppg) since November 24, 2006 at home after a loss in which their DPS was minus 15 points or less. The Celtics are 7-0 ATS (10.1 ppg) since January 30, 1996 with at least one day of rest after a double digit home loss in which they shot less than 60% from the free-throw line.

Nets at Clippers – The Nets are 0-11 ATS (-11.9 ppg) since February 02, 2007 with at least one day of rest after a double digit loss in which their field goal attempt per turnover ratio was at least eight. The Nets are 0-7 ATS (-9.9 ppg) since February 12, 2002 on the road with two or more days of rest after a game at home in which they allowed at least 50% from the field. The Clippers are 0-8 ATS (-8.1 ppg) since March 30, 1996 after a home loss against the Cavaliers.

Suns at Grizzlies – The Suns are 14-0-1 ATS (7.7 ppg) since January 18, 2006 on the road with at most one day of rest after a road loss in which they allowed at least 50% from the field. The Suns are 10-0 ATS (9.0 ppg) since January 18, 2006 on the road after a road loss in which their opponent shot at least ten three-pointers and made at least half of them. The League is 8-0 ATS (11.3 ppg) since February 22, 2008 on the road after a double digit road loss in which they blocked at least 10 shots.

Thunder at Hawks – The Hawks are 6-0-1 ATS (8.0 ppg) since November 05, 2008 with at least one day of rest off a home win in which they trailed by 10+ points.

Spurs at Hornets – The Spurs are 0-10 ATS (-8.6 ppg) since February 02, 2006 on the road with at most one day of rest after a game on the road in which less than 45% of their baskets were assisted. The Hornets are 0-8 ATS (-10.8 ppg) since April 04, 2001 at home after a road win in which they had at least five fewer turnovers than their season-to-date average.

Pistons at Knicks – The Pistons are 0-7 ATS (-3.9 ppg) since March 11, 2005 with at most one day of rest after a home win in which they shot less than 40% from the field. The Knicks are 6-0 ATS (4.0 ppg) since March 07, 2008 when they have a non-conference revenge game at home next.

Magic at Lakers – The Magic are 10-0 ATS (9.7 ppg) since January 31, 2007 off a loss in which they never led. The League is 10-0-2 ATS (6.2 ppg) since May 11, 2008 at home with two or more days of rest after a double digit home win in which their DPS was at least plus 15 points. The Lakers are 9-0 ATS (5.1 ppg) since April 20, 2008 with two or more days of rest after a home win in which the percentage of their baskets that were assisted was at least ten percentage points higher than their season-to-date average. The Lakers are 0-7-1 ATS (-5.1 ppg) since November 26, 2004 at home with two or more days of rest after a win in which they had at least five fewer turnovers than their season-to-date average.

Bucks at Rockets – The Bucks are 0-9 ATS (-11.3 ppg) since December 29, 2007 after a road loss in which the percentage of their baskets that were assisted was at least ten percentage points higher than their season-to-date average. The Rockets are 8-0 ATS (9.2 ppg) since December 02, 1999 when they allowed at least ten points more than their season-to-date average for two straight games.

76ers at Timberwolves – The 76ers are 0-8 ATS (-13.6 ppg) since October 31, 2003 on the road with at least one day of rest after a home win in which they had at least 12 steals. The Timberwolves are 0-11 ATS (-12.6 ppg) since February 19, 2003 after a loss in which they allowed a shooting percentage at least 10 percentage points higher than their season-to-date average. The Timberwolves are 0-10 ATS (-13.7 ppg) since February 19, 2003 after a road loss in which they allowed at least 55% from the field.

Bulls at Warriors – The Warriors are 0-6 ATS (-6.5 ppg) since March 07, 2004 at home with at least one day of rest off a loss as a favorite in which they led by 10+ points.

Trailblazers at Wizards – The Trailblazers are 10-0 ATS (9.5 ppg) since March 19, 1996 with at least one day of rest after a double digit win in which their opponent shot at least twenty three-pointers and made less than 25% of them. The Trailblazers are 8-0 ATS (11.6 ppg) since April 16, 2008 on the road after a double digit home win in which they had an assist to turnover ratio of at least two. The Wizards are 0-8 ATS (-14.4 ppg) since March 04, 2007 at home with at most one day of rest off a win that broke at least a three-game losing streak. The Wizards are 0-7 ATS (-10.4 ppg) since January 22, 2009 after a win in which they scored less than 10% of their points from the three-point line.