Wednesday's NBA Tip Sheet
By Brad Young
**Heat at Bucks**
-Las Vegas Sports Consultants installed Milwaukee as a five-point home ‘chalk’ over Miami, with the total set at 194 ½. This contest is slated to start at 8:05 p.m. ET. The Heat are playing on back-to-back nights after Tuesday’s tilt at Minnesota.
-Miami (19-17 straight up, 15-20 against the spread) dropped to 1-3 SU its last four outings heading into Tuesday’s matchup after falling to the Los Angeles Lakers Sunday as an 11-point road underdog, 108-105. The combined 213 points eclipsed the 204-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 4-1 the previous five outings.
-The Heat have covered their last two games. Miami was dominated on the boards by the Lakers, 53-38, while shooting 46 percent (43-of-93). Dwayne Wade led all scorers with 27 points while dishing out nine assists, and Michael Beasley added 23 and five rebounds off the bench.
-Miami is 7-11 SU and 8-9 ATS away from home, dropping those affairs by an average score of 101-97. The Heat are in the midst of a seven-game road trip that concludes with stops in Houston and Oklahoma City.
-Milwaukee (19-21 SU, 26-13 ATS) has alternated SU wins and losses its last 11 games after upending Washington Monday as a three-point road ‘chalk,’ 97-91. That marked the second game in a row that the Bucks covered. The combined 188 points went ‘under’ the 192 ½-point closing total, ending a string of five straight ‘over’ outings.
-Milwaukee lost the rebounding battle, 42-36, but prevailed after shooting 48 percent (38-of-80) from the field. Michael Redd paced the offense with 29 points, while Andrew Bogut added 18 and 10 rebounds.
-The Bucks sport an 11-6 SU and ATS home ledger, winning those affairs by an average score of 99-94. Milwaukee has this lone home date sandwiched in between five road games.
-The Bucks had dropped back-to-back games to Miami SU and ATS before beating the Heat December 15 as a four-point road underdog, 98-83. The combined 181 points never seriously threatened the 197-point closing total.
-Miami’s Wade is listed as ‘probable.’
**Lakers at Spurs**
-LVSC opened San Antonio as a 1 ½-point home favorite over Los Angeles, with the total listed at 199. ESPN will provide coverage of this contest beginning at 9:05 p.m. ET.
-Los Angeles (30-6 SU, 16-20 ATS) concludes a two-game, two-day road trip with this matchup. The Lakers started this brief road trip with Tuesday’s matchup at Houston.
-Los Angeles has won three games in a row SU heading into Tuesday’s matchup, while losing four consecutive contests ATS. The ‘over’ has also gone 3-1 its past four outings.
-The Lakers are 10-4 SU and 6-8 ATS on the road, with the ‘under’ going 9-5. Los Angeles has been winning those matchups by an average score of 105-98.
-San Antonio (24-12 SU, 16-18 ATS) was riding a four-game SU winning streak before falling to Orlando Sunday as a three-point home favorite, 105-98. The combined 203 points toppled the 188-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 3-1 the last four games.
-The Spurs won the rebounding battle, 38-33, while shooting a blistering 51 percent (39-of-77) from the field. Tony Parker stepped up with 31 points on 13-of-22 shooting, while Tim Duncan contributed with 18 and 10 rebounds.
-San Antonio is 14-7 SU, but 7-12 ATS at home. The Spurs have been winning their home endeavors by an average score of 98-94. San Antonio follows this contest with a three-game road trip.
-Los Angeles is 5-1 SU and 3-2-1 ATS the previous six meetings with San Antonio, while the ‘under’ has gone 6-1 the last seven matchups. This is the first meeting of the season between these two teams.
-The Lakers’ Vujacic and Odom are listed as ‘questionable’ for this contest.
**Kings at Warriors**
-LVSC lists Golden State as a 5 ½-point home ‘chalk’ over Sacramento, with the total set at 224 ½. This Pacific Division matchup is scheduled to tipoff at 10:35 p.m. ET.
-Sacramento (9-29 SU, 18-20 ATS) faces a tough two-day stretch after hosting Orlando late Tuesday before traveling to Golden State. The Kings had lost five games in a row SU before upending Dallas Sunday as a 2 ½-point home underdog, 102-95. The combined 197 points failed to topple the 201 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ improve to 3-1 the past four outings.
-Sacramento is just 2-17 SU on the road, but a solid 11-8 ATS. The Kings have been losing those games by an average score of 107-95.
-Golden State (11-28 SU, 17-22 ATS) was mired in a five-game SU losing streak before slipping past Indiana Sunday as a 1 ½-point home underdog, 120-117. The Warriors are 3-1 ATS their last four outings. The combined 237 points eclipsed the 233 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 4-1 the previous five outings.
-Golden State outrebounded the Pacers, 48-43, while shooting 48 percent (39-of-81) from the field. Jamal Crawford stepped up with 32 points and five rebounds, while Kelenna Azubuike added 21 and eight.
-The Warriors are 7-8 SU and 9-6 ATS on their home court, with the ‘over’ going 11-4.
-Sacramento is 2-1 SU and 3-0 ATS the last three meetings with Golden State after winning November 9 as a three-point home ‘chalk,’ 115-98. The combined 213 points slithered below the 214-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ improve to 4-1 the last five games in this series.
-Golden State’s Jackson is ‘out’ for this contest.
vegasinsider.com
NBA Today
SCOREBOARD
Thursday, Jan. 15
Phoenix at Denver (10:30 p.m. EST). Shaquille O’Neal leads the Suns against the Northwest Division-leading Nuggets, who have won nine of 12 since a three-game skid last month.
STARS
Tuesday
— LeBron James, Cavaliers, had 30 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season in a 102-87 victory at Memphis.
— Kobe Bryant, Lakers, made a 3-pointer with 27 seconds left and finished with 33 points in a 105-100 win at Houston.
— Raymond Felton, Bobcats, hit a jumper with 0.7 seconds left to give Charlotte an 80-78 victory over Detroit. Felton finished with 23 points and nine assists.
— Dwyane Wade and Shawn Marion, Suns. Wade had 31 points and eight assists and Marion hit the go-ahead free throws with 22 seconds left in a 99-96 victory over Minnesota.
— Chauncey Billups, Nuggets, scored 23 points, including two free throws with 2.2 seconds left to lead Denver to a 99-97 victory over Dallas.
— Shaquille O’Neal, Suns, had 26 points and 10 rebounds as Phoenix beat Atlanta 107-102.
— Dwight Howard, Magic, had 25 points and 15 rebounds in a 139-107 victory at Sacramento.
3-POINT RECORD
Orlando made an NBA-record 23 3-pointers Tuesday night in a 139-107 victory at Sacramento. The Magic made 23 of 37 attempts in breaking the old mark of 21, set by Toronto on March 13, 2005, against Philadelphia. The record came on Jeremy Richardson’s 3-pointer with 2:20 left.
STRONG IN DEFEAT
Dirk Nowitzki had 44 points and 14 rebounds in Dallas’ 99-97 loss at Denver on Tuesday night. … Randy Foye scored 14 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter of Minnesota’s 99-96 loss at Phoenix. Foye’s desperation 3-pointer just before the buzzer was off the mark, snapping the Timberwolves’ five-game winning streak. … Kevin Martin scored 30 points in Sacramento’s 139-107 loss to Orlando.
INJURY WOES
The Wizards announced Tuesday that center Etan Thomas has a torn ligament in his left knee and will be sidelined indefinitely, the latest setback for a last-place team already without Gilbert Arenas, Brendan Haywood and DeShawn Stevenson. Thomas, injured in the first quarter of Monday night’s 97-91 loss to Milwaukee, will be re-evaluated in two weeks. … Golden State guard Marco Belinelli will be sidelined at least 10 days due to a sprained right ankle. The second-year pro from Italy was injured in the fourth quarter of a victory over Indiana, landing on an opponent’s leg after taking a shot. He recently joined the starting lineup, showing improved shooting and defense while averaging 13.8 points the past 19 games. Belinelli joins Monta Ellis, Stephen Jackson and Brandan Wright on a long list of injured regulars for the Warriors.
ON NO, NOT DARIUS
Darius Miles played in his first game since re-signing with Memphis last Saturday, moving Portland closer to the contentious salary-cap problem they feared. Miles entered the Grizzlies’ 102-87 loss to Cleveland in the third quarter and quickly converted a three-point play. He finished with 13 points in 13 minutes. If Miles plays in one more game, the Trail Blazers will be on the hook for the $18 million and two years remaining on his deal. Memphis waived Miles, coming back from major knee surgery, last Wednesday and re-signed the forward to a 10-day contract two days after Portland sent out an e-mail warning of possible legal action against any team that signed the free agent.
SPEAKING
“I had no idea. The first time I knew was when I got the stat sheet. I’m just out there playing. Two of our guys are out so everyone had to step up, including myself.”—LeBron James after getting 30 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season in a 102-87 victory at Memphis on Tuesday night.
Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors
Drew Gooden led Chicago with 22 points and nine rebounds in its 109-95 loss to Portland on Monday night.
Portland cashed as 2-point road favorites as the game played over the 195-point total listed by oddsmakers.
Andrea Bargnani led Toronto with 23 points and eight rebounds in its 115-109 overtime loss to Boston on Monday night.
Boston failed to cash as 11.5-point home favorites as the game played over the 187-point total listed by sportsbooks.
Current streak:
Chicago has lost 2 straight games.
Toronto has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Chicago: 16-22 SU, 16-22 ATS
Toronto: 16-23 SU, 16-22-1 ATS
Chicago most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Cleveland are 5-5
After playing Portland are 6-4
After a loss are 5-5
Toronto most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Indiana are 5-5
After playing Boston are 5-5
After a loss are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chicago's last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
Chicago is 16-4 SU in its last 20 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Toronto
Chicago is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing at home against Chicago
Toronto is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Chicago
Toronto is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing Chicago
Next up:
Chicago home to Cleveland, Thursday, January 15
Toronto at Indiana, Friday, January 16
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Travis Outlaw had 33 points and seven rebounds off the bench, as the Trail Blazers ran past the Bulls 109-95 on Monday night.
Portland cashed as 2-point road favorites as the game played over the 195-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The 76ers defeated Atlanta 109-94 as a 5.5-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (197.5).
Andre Iguodala scored 27 points to go along with nine assists for Philadelphia, while Thaddeus Young added 22 points and nine rebounds in the win.
Current streak:
Portland has won 3 straight games.
Philadelphia has won 4 straight games.
Team records:
Portland: 23-14 SU, 18-19 ATS
Philadelphia: 17-20 SU, 18-19 ATS
Portland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing New Jersey are 0-10
After playing Chicago are 4-6
After a win are 5-5
Philadelphia most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing San Antonio are 2-8
After playing Atlanta are 5-5
After a win are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Portland's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Portland's last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Portland's last 14 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Portland is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Philadelphia is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Portland
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Next up:
Portland at New Jersey, Thursday, January 15
Philadelphia home to San Antonio, Friday, January 16
Detroit Pistons vs. Indiana Pacers
Rodney Stuckey led Detroit with 22 points and six boards in its 80-78 loss to Charlotte on Tuesday night.
Charlotte won as 7.5-point road underdogs as the game played under the 175.5-point total listed by oddsmakers.
Danny Granger scored 30 points and dished out seven assists for Indiana in its 120-113 loss to Utah on Monday night.
Utah couldn't cover as 10-point home favorites as the game played over the 222-point total posted by oddsmakers.
Current streak:
Detroit has lost 2 straight games.
Indiana has lost 3 straight games.
Team records:
Detroit: 22-14 SU, 16-20 ATS
Indiana: 13-25 SU, 19-18-1 ATS
Detroit most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Oklahoma City are 8-2
After playing Charlotte are 6-4
After a loss are 5-5
Indiana most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Toronto are 4-6
After playing Utah are 6-4
After a loss are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
Detroit is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games on the road
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Indiana
Detroit is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Indiana's last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Indiana's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of Indiana's last 22 games when playing at home against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Indiana's last 7 games when playing Detroit
Next up:
Detroit at Oklahoma City, Friday, January 16
Indiana home to Toronto, Friday, January 16
Washington Wizards vs. New York Knicks
Reserve Nick Young drained 30 points for Washington in its 97-91 loss to Milwaukee on Monday night.
Milwaukee cashed as 3-point road favorites as the game played under the 191-point total set by sportsbooks.
David Lee dropped 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead the Knicks over the Hornets 101-95 on Monday night.
New York cashed as 12-point road underdogs as the teams played under the 201.5-point total set by oddsmakers.
Current streak:
Washington has lost 5 straight games.
Team records:
Washington: 7-30 SU, 15-22 ATS
New York: 14-22 SU, 19-17 ATS
Washington most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing New York are 4-6
After playing Milwaukee are 7-3
After a loss are 2-8
New York most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Washington are 5-5
After playing New Orleans are 3-7
After a win are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games when playing New York
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Washington's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Washington's last 13 games
Washington is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New York's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games when playing Washington
New York is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Washington
New York is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Washington
Next up:
Washington home to New York, Friday, January 16
New York at Washington, Friday, January 16
New Jersey Nets vs. Boston Celtics
Brook Lopez scored 31 points and hauled down 13 rebounds to lift the Nets past the Thunder 103-99 in overtime on Monday night.
New Jersey couldn't cover as 7.5-point home favorites as the game played over the 199.5-point total set by oddsmakers.
Paul Pierce went for 39 points and nine rebounds to lift the Celtics past the Raptors 115-109 in overtime on Monday night.
Boston failed to cash as 11.5-point home favorites as the game played over the 187-point total listed by sportsbooks.
Current streak:
Boston has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
New Jersey: 19-19 SU, 21-17 ATS
Boston: 31-9 SU, 20-20 ATS
New Jersey most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Portland are 4-6
After playing Oklahoma City are 6-4
After a win are 2-8
Boston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing New Jersey are 5-5
After playing Toronto are 7-3
After a win are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
New Jersey is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
New Jersey is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Jersey's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New Jersey's last 8 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing New Jersey
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing New Jersey
Boston is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 6 games at home
Next up:
New Jersey home to Portland, Thursday, January 15
Boston at New Jersey, Saturday, January 17
Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Dwyane Wade had 31 points and eight assists to lead the Heat over the Timberwolves 99-96 on Tuesday night.
Miami cashed as a road pick 'em, as the game played under the 197-point total listed by sportsbooks.
Michael Redd poured in 29 points to lead the Bucks past the Wizards 97-91 on Monday night.
Milwaukee cashed as 3-point road favorites as the game played under the 191-point total set by sportsbooks.
Team records:
Miami: 20-17 SU, 17-19-1 ATS
Milwaukee: 19-21 SU, 25-13-2 ATS
Miami most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Houston are 7-3
After playing Minnesota are 3-7
After a win are 5-5
Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Sacramento are 2-8
After playing Washington are 1-9
After a win are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Miami's last 12 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Miami's last 24 games when playing Milwaukee
Miami is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games when playing Milwaukee
Miami is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Milwaukee's last 12 games when playing at home against Miami
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 6 games
Milwaukee is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Milwaukee's last 24 games when playing Miami
Next up:
Miami at Houston, Saturday, January 17
Milwaukee at Sacramento, Friday, January 16
Utah Jazz vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Mehmet Okur dropped 43 points and hauled down nine rebounds to lead the Jazz past the Pacers 120-113 on Monday night.
Utah couldn't cover as 10-point home favorites as the game played over the 222-point total posted by oddsmakers.
Kevin Durant led Oklahoma City with 26 points and nine boards in its 103-99 loss to New Jersey in overtime on Monday night.
New Jersey couldn't cover as 7.5-point home favorites as the game played over the 199.5-point total set by oddsmakers.
Current streak:
Utah has won 4 straight games.
Team records:
Utah: 23-15 SU, 21-17 ATS
Oklahoma City: 6-33 SU, 25-14 ATS
Utah most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Memphis are 4-6
After playing Indiana are 5-5
After a win are 5-5
Oklahoma City most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Detroit are 5-5
After playing New Jersey are 4-6
After a loss are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oklahoma City
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Utah's last 7 games
Utah is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Oklahoma City is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oklahoma City's last 5 games when playing Utah
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oklahoma City's last 8 games at home
Next up:
Utah at Memphis, Friday, January 16
Oklahoma City home to Detroit, Friday, January 16
New Orleans Hornets vs. Dallas Mavericks
David West led New Orleans with 25 points and 14 rebounds in its 101-95 loss to New York on Monday night.
New York cashed as 12-point road underdogs as the teams played under the 201.5-point total set by oddsmakers.
Dirk Nowitzki scored 44 points and grabbed 14 boards for Dallas in its 99-97 loss to Denver on Tuesday night.
Denver failed to cash as 5-point home favorites as the game played under the 207-point total set by sportsbooks.
Current streak:
Dallas has lost 3 straight games.
Team records:
New Orleans: 22-12 SU, 14-18-2 ATS
Dallas: 22-16 SU, 16-22 ATS
New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Cleveland are 7-3
After playing New York are 6-4
After a loss are 8-2
Dallas most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Utah are 6-4
After playing Denver are 7-3
After a loss are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of New Orleans's last 10 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games on the road
New Orleans is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
Dallas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Dallas is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games when playing at home against New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Dallas's last 10 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Dallas is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games when playing New Orleans
Next up:
New Orleans at Cleveland, Friday, January 16
Dallas home to Utah, Saturday, January 17
Los Angeles Lakers vs. San Antonio Spurs
Kobe Bryant scored 33 points and hauled down seven rebounds to lift the Lakers past the Rockets 105-100 on Tuesday night.
Los Angeles covered as 4-point road favorites as the game played over the 196-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Spurs lost to Orlando 105-98 as a 3-point favorite on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (187.5).
Tony Parker scored a game-high 31 points for San Antonio and Tim Duncan had 18 points and 10 rebounds.
Current streak:
Los Angeles has won 4 straight games.
Team records:
Los Angeles: 31-6 SU, 17-20 ATS
San Antonio: 24-12 SU, 17-18-1 ATS
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Orlando are 3-7
After playing Houston are 6-4
After a win are 8-2
San Antonio most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Philadelphia are 8-2
After playing Orlando are 9-1
After a loss are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
LA Lakers are 10-1 SU in their last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of the LA Lakers last 10 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
LA Lakers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the LA Lakers last 5 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Antonio's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of San Antonio's last 10 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
San Antonio is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
San Antonio is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
Next up:
LA Lakers home to Orlando, Friday, January 16
San Antonio at Philadelphia, Friday, January 16
Sacramento Kings vs. Golden State Warriors
Kevin Martin dropped 30 points for Sacramento in its 139-107 loss to Orlando on Tuesday night.
Orlando cashed as 10-point road favorites as the game played over the 200-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Warriors defeated Indiana 120-117 as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (234.5).
Jamal Crawford scored 32 points for Golden State, while Kelenna Azubuike had 21 points and eight rebounds in the win.
Team records:
Sacramento: 9-30 SU, 18-21 ATS
Golden State: 11-28 SU, 17-22 ATS
Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Milwaukee are 9-1
After playing Orlando are 3-7
After a loss are 2-8
Golden State most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Atlanta are 5-5
After playing Indiana are 5-5
After a win are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Sacramento's last 5 games when playing Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Sacramento's last 8 games on the road
Sacramento is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Golden State is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Sacramento
Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Golden State's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Golden State's last 5 games when playing Sacramento
Next up:
Sacramento home to Milwaukee, Friday, January 16
Golden State home to Atlanta, Friday, January 16
Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Josh Smith led Atlanta with 24 points and 10 boards in its 107-102 loss to Phoenix on Tuesday night.
Phoenix couldn't cash as 6.5-point home favorites as the game played under the 212-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Clippers lost to Phoenix 109-102 as a 9-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (202).
Al Thornton led the Clippers with 23 points and Marcus Camby had 18 points and 18 rebounds.
Current streak:
Atlanta has lost 4 straight games.
Los Angeles has lost 11 straight games.
Team records:
Atlanta: 22-15 SU, 20-17 ATS
Los Angeles: 8-29 SU, 16-21 ATS
Atlanta most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Golden State are 4-6
After playing Phoenix are 1-9
After a loss are 5-5
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Milwaukee are 7-3
After playing Phoenix are 4-6
After a loss are 0-10
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta's last 10 games when playing LA Clippers
Atlanta is 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
Atlanta is 3-7 SU in their last 10 games when playing LA Clippers
Atlanta is 3-11 SU in its last 14 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 5 games
LA Clippers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
LA Clippers are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 7 of the LA Clippers last 10 games when playing Atlanta
Next up:
Atlanta at Golden State, Friday, January 16
LA Clippers home to Milwaukee, Saturday, January 17
New Orleans (22-12, 15-18-1 ATS) at Dallas (22-16, 16-22 ATS)
The Hornets will try to rebound from Monday’s shocking home loss to the Knicks when they make the short trek west to Dallas for in the season’s first meeting between these Southwest Division rivals.
New Orleans went off as an 11½-point home favorite against New York on Monday, but never grabbed control of the contest and lost 101-95, dropping to 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games. Since a four-game winning streak, the Hornets are just 2-3 SU and ATS, alternating SU and ATS wins and losses along the way. New Orleans has also split its last six road games, going 2-4 ATS.
Dallas went to Denver last night and suffered a tough 99-97 loss as a six-point road underdog. The game was tied at 95 when the Mavs’ Jason Terry was whistled for a foul with 2.2 seconds left, and Denver’s Chauncey Billups went to the foul line and sank the winning free throws to win it. The Mavericks have followed up an 8-2 SU run by losing their last three in a row, and although they ended an 0-5 ATS streak Tuesday, they’re still just 8-14 ATS in their last 22 contests, including 3-9 ATS at American Airlines Center.
The Hornets eliminated Dallas from the playoffs in the opening round last April, winning the seven-game series in five (3-2 ATS). The team’s split their four-game regular-season series SU and ATS, with the home team winning and covering in all four. In fact, including the postseason, the host went 8-1 in this rivalry last year (7-2 ATS). Also, New Orleans has cashed just twice in its last seven trips to Dallas
Since going through a 15-game stretch when they allowed more than 100 points just twice, the Mavs have surrendered 100 or more in two of their last three, four of their last six and five of their last eight. Meanwhile, New Orleans’ normally stout defense has been struggling, giving up an average of 101.4 ppg in the last five, with four of those foes topping triple digits.
New Orleans is 35-16-1 ATS in its last 52 Wednesday outings, but 1-5 ATS as an underdog of less than seven points and 9-20-1 ATS in its last 30 road games against teams with a winning home record. Dallas has cashed in five straight games on Wednesday and is 43-21-1 ATS in its last 65 divisional contests, but otherwise the Mavs are just 7-21 ATS at home going back to last season, including 4-14 ATS this year.
The under is 13-6-1 in the last 20 series meetings and 9-1 in the last 10 clashes at American Airlines Center. Also, the under for the Mavs is on runs of 13-5 overall, 6-2 at home, 5-1 against Southwest Division rivals and 6-2 when playing on the second night of a back-to-back. The under is also 8-1 in the Hornets’ last nine divisional contests and 17-5 in its last 22 when playing on one day of rest, but the over is 4-1 in New Orleans’ last five overall, last five on the road and last five on Wednesday.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
L.A. Lakers (31-6, 17-20 ATS) at San Antonio (24-12, 17-18-1 ATS)
The Lakers and Spurs resume their contentious rivalry for the first time since last year’s Western Conference Finals, as Los Angeles completes a two-game, two-day swing through Texas with a stop at the AT&T Center.
L.A. went to Houston last night and toppled the Rockets 105-100, barely cashing as a 4½-point road favorite to end an 0-5 ATS slide. The Lakers have won four in a row and 10 of their last 11. However, they’ve been on a roller-coaster ride at the betting window the last six weeks, following up an 0-10 ATS slide with five straight spread-covers before going 0-5 ATS prior to getting the cash at Houston on Tuesday.
San Antonio had a four-game winning streak (3-1 ATS) snapped in Sunday’s 105-98 loss to the Magic as a three-point home favorite. Despite that setback, the Spurs are still 22-7 since starting the season 2-5. However, they’ve followed up an 11-4 ATS stretch by going 5-8-1 ATS in the last 14.
The Lakers took down San Antonio in five games in last year’s best-of-7 Western Conference finals, going 3-2 ATS. The teams split their four regular-season meetings, with the Spurs going 3-1 ATS. The home team went 8-1 SU and 6-3 ATS in the nine head-to-head clashes last year, with the favorite covering in five of the last seven.
The Lakers have scored at least 100 points in eight consecutive games and have been held under triple digits just six times through their first 37 contests. For the season, they’re averaging 107.8 points per game (47.3 percent shooting), including 105.1 ppg on the road (46.3 percent), where Phil Jackson’s team is 11-4 on the season (7-8 ATS).
Including Sunday’s loss to Orlando, San Antonio has surrendered 100 points just six times in its last 32 games, and the Spurs are holding opponents to an average of just 93.6 ppg (45.6 percent shooting).
The Lakers are on ATS nosedives of 2-6 on the road, 5-9 against the Western Conference, 6-11 after a SU win and 7-18 after an ATS setback. However, they’re 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 as an underdog, 15-5-2 in their last 22 as a road underdog and 15-7 in their last 22 when playing on back-to-back nights. Meanwhile, San Antonio has cashed in six straight games against the Pacific Division and 14 of 20 versus the Western Conference, but otherwise it is on pointspread declines of 1-5 at home (all as a favorite) and 1-6 on Wednesday.
These teams stayed under the total in all five playoff games last May, and the under is 9-1 in the last 10 battles at the AT&T Center. Furthermore, the under is on runs of 12-2 for the Spurs against Pacific Division foes, 5-0 for the Spurs on Wednesday, 4-2 for the Lakers on the road, 5-1 for the Lakers as an underdog and 5-1 for the Lakers against winning teams. Conversely, though, the over is 6-2 in the Lakers’ last eight overall, 5-2 in San Antonio’s last seven overall and 5-0 in San Antonio’s last five at home.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
Gametimepicks.com
CHICAGO (16 - 22) at TORONTO (16 - 23)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 5-2 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 4-3 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT (22 - 13) at INDIANA (13 - 25)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 5-5 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 8-2 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
PORTLAND (23 - 14) at PHILADELPHIA (17 - 20)
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 2-2 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 2-2 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY (19 - 19) at BOSTON (31 - 9)
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 2-12 ATS (-11.2 Units) as a road underdog of 9.5 to 12 points over the last 3 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 19-31 ATS (-15.1 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 87-60 ATS (+21.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 68-50 ATS (+13.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 46-29 ATS (+14.1 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 19-5 ATS (+13.5 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 45-24 ATS (+18.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 151-115 ATS (+24.5 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.
BOSTON is 57-84 ATS (-35.4 Units) in home games after allowing 105 points or more since 1996.
BOSTON is 50-74 ATS (-31.4 Units) in home games after scoring 105 points or more since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 6-2 against the spread versus NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 6-2 straight up against NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON (7 - 30) at NEW YORK (14 - 22)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) against Atlantic division opponents this season.
WASHINGTON is 48-29 ATS (+16.1 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 195 and 199.5 points since 1996.
NEW YORK is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 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 7-2 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 6-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
UTAH (23 - 15) at OKLAHOMA CITY (6 - 33)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 6-3 against the spread versus UTAH over the last 3 seasons
UTAH is 7-2 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI (19 - 17) at MILWAUKEE (19 - 21)
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 48-68 ATS (-26.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 18-33 ATS (-18.3 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in road games revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
MILWAUKEE is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) against Southeast division opponents this season.
MILWAUKEE is 28-51 ATS (-28.1 Units) in a home game where where the total is between 195 and 199.5 points since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 4-4 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
MILWAUKEE is 4-4 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS (22 - 12) at DALLAS (22 - 15)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 7-6 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 7-6 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS (30 - 6) at SAN ANTONIO (24 - 12)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 301-251 ATS (+24.9 Units) in home games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 103-72 ATS (+23.8 Units) when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 121-90 ATS (+22.0 Units) off a upset loss as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 37-21 ATS (+13.9 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 42-26 ATS (+13.4 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 7-5 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 8-4 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
9 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
SACRAMENTO (9 - 29) at GOLDEN STATE (11 - 28)
Top Trends for this game.
GOLDEN STATE is 51-69 ATS (-24.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 39-54 ATS (-20.4 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 210 over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 22-38 ATS (-19.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 65-94 ATS (-38.4 Units) in January games since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 154-195 ATS (-60.5 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 30-55 ATS (-30.5 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) in home games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SACRAMENTO is 5-4 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 6-3 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA (22 - 14) at LA CLIPPERS (8 - 29)
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 50-68 ATS (-24.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 41-57 ATS (-21.7 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 21-38 ATS (-20.8 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 131-173 ATS (-59.3 Units) after allowing 105 points or more since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 23-38 ATS (-18.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 3-1 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 3-1 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Hot and Cold Bets - Week 11
By Matt Fargo
NBA Cold Bets
Wednesday – Loa Angeles Lakers at San Antonio Spurs
This is the first meeting of the season between the Lakers and Spurs and the first meeting since Los Angeles ended the defending World Champions season last year. The Lakers won the Conference Finals four games to one and this could be payback time for the Spurs. After a slow start, the Spurs have caught fire, going 22-7 over their last 29 games. They are coming off a loss against Orlando on Sunday and have had three days to get ready for this big rematch. The Lakers have been one of the streakiest teams this season in terms of wins and losses against the number. Los Angeles started 6-1 ATS then went on a 5-15 run that included 10 straight losses before winning its next five. They have now dropped four straight and they bring in a 2-7 ATS run on the road into this one. The lone positive cover stats for the Lakers are that they are 2-0 ATS as an underdog this season and 5-3 ATS in the second game of a back-to-back set.
CHICAGO vs. TORONTO
Chicago is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games
Chicago is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
Toronto is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Chicago
Toronto is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Chicago
DETROIT vs. INDIANA
Detroit is 8-2-1 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games on the road
Indiana is 5-13-2 ATS in its last 20 games when playing at home against Detroit
Indiana is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit
PORTLAND vs. PHILADELPHIA
Portland is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Portland's last 14 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
NEW JERSEY vs. BOSTON
New Jersey is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Boston
New Jersey is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Boston
Boston is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games at home
Boston is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games at home
WASHINGTON vs. NEW YORK
Washington is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
Washington is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games when playing on the road against New York
New York is 3-10 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New York's last 5 games
MIAMI vs. MILWAUKEE
Miami is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Miami's last 24 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Milwaukee's last 12 games when playing at home against Miami
Milwaukee is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games when playing Miami
UTAH vs. OKLAHOMA CITY
Utah is 4-8-1 ATS in its last 13 games when playing on the road against Oklahoma City
Utah is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Oklahoma City is 3-15 SU in its last 18 games at home
NEW ORLEANS vs. DALLAS
New Orleans is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games
New Orleans is 17-7 SU in its last 24 games
Dallas is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Dallas is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games when playing at home against New Orleans
LA LAKERS vs. SAN ANTONIO
LA Lakers are 10-1 SU in their last 11 games
LA Lakers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games on the road
San Antonio is 13-6 SU in their last 19 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of San Antonio's last 10 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
ATLANTA vs. LA CLIPPERS
Atlanta is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 3-11 SU in its last 14 games on the road
LA Clippers are 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games when playing at home against Atlanta
LA Clippers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
SACRAMENTO vs. GOLDEN STATE
Sacramento is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Golden State
Sacramento is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Golden State
Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Golden State's last 17 games at home
Hot Teams
-- 76ers won their last four games, covered six of last seven. Blazers won last three games, by 1-13-14 games.
-- Nets won three of last four games, covered five of last six.
-- Oklahoma City is 13-3 vs spread in its last sixteen games, last two of which went into overtime. Utah won last four games, by 5-26-17-7 pts.
-- Hornets are 6-1 vs spread in game following last seven losses.
-- Lakers won four in row, 10 of last 11 games (1-4 vs spread last five). Spurs won nine of their last eleven games.
-- Warriors lost five of last six games, are 2-6 as a favorite this season.
Cold Teams
-- Pacers lost four of their last five games. Pistons lost four of their last five games, too, scoring 82-78 in last two.
-- Bulls lost eight of their last eleven games. Raptors are 6-11 in last 17.
-- Knicks are 3-8 vs spread in their last eleven games. Wizards lost last five games, failed to cover last four.
-- Celtics covered one of their last six games.
-- Miami is 2-5 vs spread in its last seven games. Bucks are 1-4 against spread in game following its last five wins.
-- Mavericks lost last three games, covered one of last six.
-- Hawks lost five of their last six games. Clippers lost last eleven games, are 4-2 vs spread in last six.
-- Kings lost six of last seven games, but covered six of the seven.
Totals
-- Eight of last nine Detroit games stayed under the total; over is 14-3 in Indiana's last 17 games.
-- Four of 76ers' last five games went over the total.
-- Over is 5-2 in Chicago's last seven road games.
-- Under is 8-3 in Boston's last eleven games.
-- Last seven New York games all stayed under the total
-- Last four Miami games all went over the total.
-- Over is 6-2-1 in Thunder's last nine games.
-- Under is 14-4 in Mavericks' last 18 games.
-- Six of last eight Laker games went over the total.
-- Seven of last nine Atlanta games went over the total.
-- Seven of last eight Golden State games went over the total
Back-to Back
-- Pistons are 2-3 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Portland is 0-3-1 vs spread on road if they play at home next night.
-- Bulls are 3-8 vs spread if they play again the next night.
-- Nets are 6-4 vs spread if they play again the next night.
-- Miami is 1-6 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Dallas is 3-3 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Lakers are 4-3 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Hawks are 4-1-1 vs spread on road if they played the previous night.
-- Kings are 5-1 vs spread on road if they played the night before.
Wednesday Research
By Indiancowboy
Detroit vs. Indiana
If you're looking for an exciting game, this is as good as any. You have the Pacers returning home here after a tough road trip. The Pistons come off a loss to the Bobcats at home and hit the road to Indiana - a team they most recently beat 114-110 at home and 100-94 this season. Indiana comes off a tough loss to Utah and has gone over the last 7 of 10 contests and I would not be a bit surprised if they are an active dog here and this game too goes over. Indiana is 25-12 to the over this season.
Portland vs. Philadelphia
These two teams don't meet often as the last time they met was in December of 2007 when the Blazers won 97-72 at home. Portland comes off a 14 point win at Chicago and covered against GS at home as well. Philly is playing well and has won 4 in a row including defeating the Hawks on the road, the Bobcats at home, Milwaukee on the road and Houston at home. Philly has consequently covered 4 in a row and 5 of their last 6. As always, a small lean on Portland here but Philly has been playing well as you can see and I can respect that.
Chicago vs. Toronto
This is the biggest public play today as Toronto is favored by 77% of the public. To be honest, I just don't understand this line. After all, the Raptors just come off an OT loss to Boston, have covered 5 of their last 7, beat the Magic and Rockets at home, the Bulls come off a 14 point loss to Portland at home, and yet the line is just 4 here. The only thing I can think of that can relate to such a low line is that the Bulls had a team meeting of sorts which the line will reflect that the next morning. After all, the Raptors have been playing with O'Neal out (for the better) and Calderon being banged up for over 2 weeks now. And yet, just a -4 line? Sure, I lean on the Raptors here as well coming home after a loss as they have been playing much better, but the line makes me a bit weary and it has not budged one bit despite 77% of the public on the Raps.
New Jersey vs. Boston
These two teams have not met this year and I have a rule of usually not playing any games that involve the Nets as they are so unpredictable. Having said that, the Celtics come off back to back wins against the Raps in a home and home to stop their slide and the Nets are 5-1 ATS over their last 6. I can see the side going either way as the C's are desperate for a big home win here and this could be it, if you believe NJ will be competitive, lean on the over and if you believe Boston takes the cake ATS, lean on the under.
Miami vs. Milwaukee
Another interesting line here. Maybe Vegas is trying to make up for the fact that Milwaukee is 25-13 ATS currently as they are one of the few ATS darlings this year. The Bucks come off yet another cover at Washington albeit barely, but have not fared well covering at home of late. Miami has covered 3 in a row including winning at Sacramento most recently. This team lost to Milwaukee earlier this year by 15 as well so do have revenge at that token, and yet, despite the fact that Miami has been playing well, they are getting 6 points here on revenge. The majority of the public to a tune of 2:1 likes the points here. I just hate going with a public dog and Milwaukee has been playing well, but Miami has been rock solid as well and have a great revene angle.
Atlanta vs. L.A. Clippers
You know, I really wanted to take the Hawks. But, I've always had a basic principle that if over 70% are on a team, I stay away from that game. And, for the most part, it has kept me out of trouble. The Hawks are reeling right now as they lost to the Magic twice, Philly at home and the Suns on the road (but did stay inside the number last night). Horoford is out once again this game. The Clippers played well in their last contest losing by just 6 to the Suns and are a very unpredictable team. I can actually see this both ways as the Hawks will look to finally rebound after losing 4 in a row SU while the Clips attmept to get the outright at home as if they can fall by just 6 to the Suns at home, then why not fall within 4 or better to a Hawks team that is struggling, on the road and no Horoford?