Utah (25-17, 22-20 ATS) at Houston (26-16, 19-23 ATS)
After a brief stop at home last night, the Jazz go back on the road for a Western Conference clash with the Rockets at the Toyota Center.
Utah returned to Salt Lake City from a three-game road trip on Tuesday and held off Minnesota 112-107, failing to cover as an 8½-point favorite. The Jazz are 6-2 SU but just 3-5 ATS in their last eight games, and they’ve lost six of their last seven road tilts (2-5 ATS), including a 120-115 overtime loss at Houston as a nine-point underdog on Dec. 27.
Houston is coming off Monday’s narrow 115-113 victory over the Nuggets, coming up shy as a three-point home chalk. The Rockets are 5-1 in their last six games, but only 3-3 ATS, and they’ve alternated spread-covers in their last nine contests. Also, they have won 11 of their last 13 at the Toyota Center, but they’re just 6-7 ATS, including 2-6 ATS in the last eight.
While the Jazz have scored at least 100 points in nine of their last 11 games, the Rockets have held 13 of their last 18 opponents under triple digits.
Utah knocked the Rockets out of the playoffs each of the last two seasons, and including the spread-cover in last month’s loss in Houston, the Jazz are 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings in this rivalry, going 6-1 ATS in their last seven trips to Houston. While the home team is 4-0 SU in the last four meetings, the visitor and the underdog have both cashed in eight of the last 11 in this rivalry.
The Jazz are 20-7 ATS in their last 27 games against Southwest Division foes, while the Rockets are in ATS slumps of 4-10 overall, 2-6 at home, 0-5 against the Western Conference, 3-7 versus the Northwest Division, 1-4 on Wednesday and 0-5 when playing after one day of rest.
Utah sports “over” streaks of 9-2 overall, 4-1 on the road, 7-1 against the Western Conference, 7-2 versus the Southwest Division, 10-4 on Wednesday and 4-0 when playing on back-to-back nights. The over is also 11-4 in Houston’s last 15 against the Western Conference and 7-1 in its last eight versus the Northwest Division, but the under is 18-8 in the Rockets’ last 26 home games and 16-5 in its last 21 on Wednesday.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH
Cleveland (31-8, 27-12 ATS) at Portland (25-16, 20-21 ATS)
Two days after a blowout loss at the Lakers, the Cavaliers resume their four-game Western Conference road trip with a stop at the Rose Garden for a battle with the Trail Blazers.
Cleveland took a 50-49 halftime lead into the locker room Monday night in Los Angeles, then got steamrolled 56-38 in the second half to lose 105-88 as a five-point road underdog. The Cavaliers are just 5-4 SU and ATS in their last nine games, including 1-4 SU and ATS on the highway, and the winner has cashed in each of those nine contests.
Portland returned from a 2-2 SU and ATS Eastern Conference road trip Monday night and crushed Milwaukee 102-85 as a 6½-point home favorite. The Blazers are on runs of 5-2 SU and 4-2 ATS, and the SU winner is 18-1 ATS in their last 19 games.
The Cavs swept the season series last year, winning 84-83 as a three-point road underdog and 88-80 as a 5½-point home chalk. LeBron and Co. are 4-1 SU and ATS in the last five meetings with Portland and 7-2 SU and ATS in the last nine. However, the Blazers are 6-2 ATS in the last eight head-to-head matchups at the Rose Garden, and the favorite is on a 10-3 ATS roll in this rivalry.
Despite its 1-5 ATS slump on the road, Cleveland is on positive pointspread streaks of 37-15 overall, 10-2 against the Western Conference, 6-1 versus the Northwest Division, 5-0 on Wednesday, 10-1 after a double-digit loss, 6-0 after giving up more than 100 points in a game and 23-8 after an ATS setback. Portland is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 home games and 4-1 ATS in its last five against Central Division foes, but it is on pointspread declines of 3-9 after a SU win, 2-5 after a spread-cover, 2-8 against winning teams and 3-9 when playing on one day of rest.
For the Cavaliers, the under is on stretches of 4-1 overall, 6-2 on the road, 4-0 when facing Northwest Division opponents, 9-2 when playing on one day of rest and 18-8-1 after an outright defeat. Also, the Blazers are on “under” streaks of 4-1 at home, 5-1 against the Central Division, 43-18-1 on Wednesday and 22-10 after a SU victory. Finally, the last four meetings between these squads have stayed under the total.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
Gametimepicks.com
Mid-Week Tip Sheet
By Josh Jacobs
Variety is the name of the game on Wednesday. Five of the 11 games on tap will pit teams playing above .500 against clubs possessing a losing record. And then there are tip-offs like Utah-Houston and Cleveland-Portland to entertain the masses.
Jumping right onto the court, a tussle between Dallas (24-17 straight up, 18-23 against the spread) and Milwaukee (20-24 SU, 26-16-2) will give gamblers a run for their money.
For one, the Bucks began the first 17 games of the season mustering up a solid 12-4-1 ATS run. But covering just three games in the last 10 is a reflection of losing six games straight up by an average margin of 7.7 PPG. And this is a problem when six of the last 10 games have witnessed Milwaukee set as a favorite.
On somewhat of a positive wagering note, the Bucks remain the third best ATS ranked team in the Eastern Conference. Scoring 100.6 PPG off one day of rest (versus 97.7 PPG overall this season), Milwaukee is 13-7 ATS.
Dallas is coming off a buzzer beating, 95-93 win over Philadelphia on Monday, covering the spread as 3 ½-point visiting underdogs. This MLK Day special was far from an easy win for the Mavericks as the 76ers entered on a seven-game winning streak, while covering eight of those in a row. Dirk Nowitzki nailed down a 17-foot jumper to end the contest, giving Dallas its second straight win in a row.
Shooting 46.2 percent in the last six games has lead way to the Mavs crafting a dull 2-4 SU and 3-3 ATS stint. During its recent four-game losing skid from Jan. 9 to Jan. 14, the Mavs have been outscored 108.3 to 97.3 PPG.
The Bucks have owned the spread, going 8-2 ATS in their last 10 head-to-head games against Dallas. In all 10, books have installed Milwaukee as a ‘dog, ranging from a high, 14 points in the last meeting in February of 2008 (Dallas emerged the victor, 107-96) to a low, one point ‘dog.
Game time is expected to begin at 8:00 p.m. EST.
Boston at Miami – 7:30 p.m. EST
-- The Heat (22-18 SU, 18-20-2 ATS) are coming off an excruciating, seven-game road trip for which the club has gone 4-2 SU and a smoking 6-1 ATS. In all but two of the games, Miami was installed as the underdog.
-- Totals have been on fire in recent games. The Heat are 7-2 on the ‘over’ in their last nine as most books have only listed totals of 200 points or more in just seven contests this season. When Miami has scored 100 or more points, the ‘over’ has padded bettors’ bank accounts with a 13-1 record.
-- The Heat return home after sealing the deal on a ‘W’ in Oklahoma City, 104-94. Dwyane Wade recorded his second double-double in the last three games, shooting for 32 points and dishing 10 assists. Miami is 13-5 when Wade records 30 or more points in a given contest.
-- Just watch your wallets as the Heat are a money grubbing, 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games.
-- Boston (34-9 SU, 22-20 ATS) prepares to enter South Florida claiming a 5-0 record in the last five meetings against Miami and a financially pleasing 7-2 ATS performance in the last nine head-to-head tip-offs.
-- It was back on March of last year that the Celtics walked away from the court against Miami with an 88-62 victory, covering the steep 22 ½-point spread. But the Heat are a more polished product then last season’s team. Boston is only 2-4 ATS on the road versus teams playing above .500 ball.
-- The Celtics will look to build on a current five-game winning streak which has also witnessed a current 4-1 ATS record. This is in stark contrast to a recent 0-4 SU and ATS slide beginning in New York on Jan. 4 (100-88) and ending in Toronto on Jan. 11 (94-88). Just to clarify this picture, Boston averaged 90.5 PPG during the four-game dive versus scoring 107.2 PPG in the last five.
New Jersey at New Orleans – 8:00 p.m. EST
-- New Jersey (19-22 SU, 21-20 ATS) is hanging its head low after dropping three in a row and six of its last 10. But there could be a chance for the Nets to give New Orleans (25-13 SU, 16-20-2 ATS) trouble.
-- The Hornets’ Tyson Chandler (ankle) and David West (back) are both listed as ‘doubtful’. West is suffering from back spasms while Chandler has what’s best described as a twisted ankle. This complicates matters as backup center Hilton Armstrong was helped off the court with a leg injury on Monday.
-- Those looking to stay away from New Orleans in this one should know that a 3-4 ATS record at home versus teams playing above .500 (for a 9-11 overall ATS record versus teams with a winning record) could be a warning to heed.
-- When scoring 100 plus points, the Hornets have rolled through the league at 15-1 SU and 10-4-1 ATS. But the numbers drop down to a 6-9 ATS record when heading into a contest after coming off a 100-plus outing.
-- The Nets are not only in the midst of a three-game slide but an 0-4 stretch in their last four road games is of some concern. And then there’s New Jersey’s 0-4 ATS streak (installed as a ‘dog three times of the four games).
-- We’re talking about the Nets’ getting outscored 102.7 to just 90.5 PPG in their last six defeats. It’s been discussed in every circle of the NBA but current events which have proven just how poorly things are in Jersey. Coach Lawrence Frank yanked Devin Harris and Vince Carter out of the lineup on Saturday after the Nets walked into the locker room at half-time, down 68-39 against Boston.
-- Installed by most books as seven-point visiting ‘dogs, New Jersey will look rebound from the four straight ATS road defeats. The Nets have been a solid bet at 12-4 ATS in the last 16 games played on the road.
Cleveland at Portland – 10:30 p.m. EST
-- LeBron James finished the night off in L.A. shooting 9 of 25 (36%) for 23 points. This was just enough for the Cavaliers to down a Lakers’ team responsible for shooting 52.4 percent from the court and 41.7 percent from beyond the arc (10 of 24). L.A. took the contest, 105-88, not needing the five-point cushion on the books.
-- Cleveland continues to reign supreme at home (20-0 SU, 16-4 ATS) but a 1-4 SU and ATS record in the last five games on the road remains unsettling for backers. This is a team who’s pulled in 27 ATS wins on the season but just 2-5 ATS on the road versus club’s playing above .500 and a perfect 7-0 ATS after a straight up defeat.
-- In three of their last four ‘under’ games, the Cavs have shot an average of 42.7 percent, averaging 92.8 PPG. Coincidentally, Cleveland is 2-3 in the last five ‘under’ games.
-- The Trailblazers have been “on and off” recently. Their performance on the court (95.8 PPG on offense) has trickled down to a 2-2 SU and ATS record. But home is where the heart is as Portland is 15-4 SU and 11-7 ATS inside its own building.
-- Defense has been key. When the Trailblazers hold teams under 100 points, a 2-10 SU and ATS tally has been recorded. However, a 4-1 SU and a 3-2 ATS stint in the last five road games has padded Portland’s 15-7 ATS in the last 22 home games.
-- Cleveland is 2-6 ATS in the last eight meetings in Portland. Most books have opened this game as a pick ‘em. A total of 186 has been set. This will be the Cavaliers second game in a four game West Coast road trip.
Overtime
-- Utah (24-17 SU, 22-19 ATS) enters its match against Houston (26-16 SU, 19-23 ATS) off a 6-3 performance in the last nine. But a 3-5 ATS stint in the last eight and a 115-108 loss in Dallas on Saturday places a sour taste on our tongue.
-- The Rockets have managed to do damage by snatching up a 5-1 record in the last six, but are struggling against the points. Houston is a mortal 5-5 ATS in the last 10 but is a slouching 2-5 ATS in the last seven home games. However, without Tracy McGrady in the lineup, the Rockets have chalked up a 4-2 ATS record.
-- The last meeting between these two clubs took place on Dec. 27. Houston grabbed the overtime win by the score of 120-115 as a ‘chalky’ nine-point favorite. Seven of the Rockets’ players found themselves in double-digit scoring figures, eclipsing the relatively low, 191 total mark. Utah is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 head-to-head matchups.
-- Sportsbetting.com has listed the Jazz as three-point visiting underdogs. A total of 194 has been attached. The ‘over’ is 11-1-1 in Utah’s last 13 games as an underdog and is 8-2 in its last 10.
vegasinsider.com
NBA Hot and Cold Bets - Week 12
By Matt Fargo
NBA Hot Bets
Wednesday – Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden St. Warriors 10:35 PM ET
Oklahoma City finally lost a game against the number as it went down at home against Miami as a one-point favorite on Sunday night. The fact that the Thunder were the favorites tells you something right there. It was the first time they were a chalk since their third game of the season when they were favored by a point and a half over Minnesota. The loss against the number snapped spread cover runs of 15-3 ATS and 22-6 ATS. Now the question is has Oklahoma City lost all of its value? After all, it is just 7-21 straight up over that 28-game span so not getting a lot of points is definitely going to hurt. This will be the first game since then and that loss may trigger some extra line value. Golden St. has been struggling all season and it is not getting any better. Despite a 12-29 record, the Warriors have been favored 12 times this season and that continued just on Monday against Washington. The Warriors will be favored again on Wednesday but how much will depend if we get involved or not.
NBA Cold Bets
Wednesday – Phoenix Suns at New York Knicks 7:30 PM ET
Phoenix will make its first appearance at MSG against former head coach Mike D’Antoni. The Knicks lost the first meeting against his former team by eight points in Phoenix but they did manage to cover by a point. New York is playing decent right now, going 4-2 over its last six games and 6-6 over its last 12 games. The Suns have been playing .500 ball as well and that is not a good thing for this team. Heading into Boston on Monday, the Suns were 12-10 over their last 22 games and are currently only a game out from actually missing the playoffs. The Suns have been one of the bigger disappointments for backers as hey are just 13-23-1 against the number including a7-9-1 ATS mark on the road. The Suns have allowed 108.4 ppg over their last five games and it has been nearly as bad during the 12-10 stretch. Over those 22 games, the defense has given up an average of 106.5 ppg. The Knicks have the ability to have success against that stop unit is it has topped 100 points in 14 of its last 21 games.
VegasInsider.com
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Charlotte Bobcats
The Grizzlies lost to Detroit 87-79 as a 4.5-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (177).
O.J. Mayo and Rudy Gay netted 15 points each for the Grizzlies, while Marc Gasol had 12 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.
The Bobcats blew a late lead and fell 86-84 to the Spurs last time out, as 5-point underdogs. The team's played UNDER the posted total of 178.
Raja Bell went for a game-high 25 points, and Boris Diaw grabbed 13 rebounds.
Current streak:
Memphis has lost 6 straight games.
Team records:
Memphis: 11-29 SU, 15-24-1 ATS
Charlotte: 16-25 SU, 24-17 ATS
Memphis most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing New York are 3-7
After playing Detroit are 4-6
After a loss are 2-8
Charlotte most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Phoenix are 4-4
After playing San Antonio are 0-8
After a loss are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Memphis's last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Memphis's last 9 games
Memphis is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing Charlotte
Memphis is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Charlotte
Charlotte is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Charlotte is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Charlotte's last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Charlotte's last 6 games when playing Memphis
Next up:
Memphis at New York, Friday, January 23
Charlotte home to Phoenix, Friday, January 23
Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons
The Raptors lost their sixth straight in an 87-84 defeat at the hands of the Hawks on Monday, as 7.5-point underdogs. That game's 171 points went UNDER the posted total of 196.
Chris Bosh had a double-double with 22 points and 14 rebounds in a losing effort.
The Pistons defeated Memphis 87-79 as a 4.5-point favorite on Sunday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (177).
Allen Iverson scored a game-high 27 points for Detroit, while Rodney Stuckey and Richard Hamilton each added 14 points in the win.
Current streak:
Toronto has lost 6 straight games.
Team records:
Toronto: 16-27 SU, 17-24-2 ATS
Detroit: 23-17 SU, 17-23 ATS
Toronto most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 4-6
Before playing Chicago are 4-6
After playing Atlanta are 5-5
After a loss are 3-7
Detroit most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Dallas are 6-4
After playing Memphis are 7-3
After a win are 7-3
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Toronto's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games
Toronto is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Toronto is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Detroit is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto
Detroit is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Toronto
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 8 games
Next up:
Toronto at Chicago, Friday, January 23
Detroit home to Dallas, Friday, January 23
Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat
Rajon Rondo drained 23 points and dished out seven assists, as the Celtics rolled past the Suns 104-87 on Monday night.
Boston cashed as 8-point home favorites as the game played under the 204-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Heat defeated Oklahoma City 104-92 as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (193.5).
Dwyane Wade scored 32 points to go along with 10 assists for Miami, while Yakhouba Diawara added 14 points in the win.
Current streak:
Boston has won 5 straight games.
Team records:
Boston: 34-9 SU, 23-20 ATS
Miami: 22-18 SU, 19-20-1 ATS
Boston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing Orlando are 7-3
After playing Phoenix are 7-3
After a win are 7-3
Miami most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 1-9
Before playing Orlando are 4-6
After playing Oklahoma City are 7-3
After a win are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Boston's last 10 games on the road
Boston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Miami's last 7 games
Miami is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Miami is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games at home
Next up:
Boston at Orlando, Thursday, January 22
Miami home to Orlando, Saturday, January 24
Phoenix Suns vs. New York Knicks
Shaquille O'Neal led Phoenix with 16 points and 11 boards in its 104-87 loss to Boston on Monday night.
Boston cashed as 8-point home favorites as the game played under the 204-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Knicks outscored the Bulls in the fourth quarter to pull out a hard-fought 102-98 win on Monday. The Knicks covered the slight 2-point spread, while the 200 points went UNDER the posted total of 208.5.
Quentin Richardson led the way with 24 points and six rebounds. Chris Duhon added 19 points and David Lee hauled down 10 rebounds in that win.
Team records:
Phoenix: 23-16 SU, 13-25-1 ATS
New York: 16-24 SU, 21-19 ATS
Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Charlotte are 7-1
After playing Boston are 8-2
After a loss are 6-4
New York most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 0-10
Before playing Memphis are 2-8
After playing Chicago are 5-5
After a win are 2-8
A few trends to consider:
Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Phoenix's last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Phoenix's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Phoenix's last 14 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games when playing at home against Phoenix
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of New York's last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New York's last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 11 of New York's last 14 games when playing Phoenix
Next up:
Phoenix at Charlotte, Friday, January 23
New York home to Memphis, Friday, January 23
Dallas Mavericks vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Jason Kidd dropped 22 points and hauled in 12 boards for a double-double as the Mavericks defeated the streaking 76ers 95-93 on Monday, as 3.5-point underdogs. That game's combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 200.
Dirk Nowitzki led the way with a team-high 24 points, and finished with six rebounds.
Charlie Villanueva had 23 points and 10 boards for Milwaukee in its 102-85 loss to Portland on Monday night.
Portland covered as 6.5-point home favorites as the game played under the 194-point total listed by oddsmakers.
Current streak:
Dallas has won 2 straight games.
Milwaukee has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Dallas: 24-17 SU, 18-23 ATS
Milwaukee: 20-24 SU, 26-16-2 ATS
Dallas most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 9-1
Before playing Detroit are 8-2
After playing Philadelphia are 6-4
After a win are 6-4
Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Atlanta are 3-7
After playing Portland are 3-7
After a loss are 8-2
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games on the road
Dallas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Dallas's last 14 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Dallas's last 7 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Milwaukee is 7-0-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing at home against Dallas
Milwaukee is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Milwaukee's last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games at home
Next up:
Dallas at Detroit, Friday, January 23
Milwaukee at Atlanta, Friday, January 23
New Jersey Nets vs. New Orleans Hornets
Brook Lopez had a big game for New Jersey with 28 points and 10 boards in a 105-85 loss to Boston on Saturday afternoon.
The Nets did not cover the 6.5-point spread, while the final score played UNDER the day's posted total of 192.5.
The Hornets defeated Indiana 103-100 as a 6.5-point favorite on Monday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (208).
Chris Paul scored 27 points to go along with nine assists for New Orleans, while Peja Stojakovic added 26 points in the win.
Current streak:
New Jersey has lost 3 straight games.
New Orleans has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
New Jersey: 19-22 SU, 21-20 ATS
New Orleans: 25-13 SU, 16-20-2 ATS
New Jersey most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing San Antonio are 4-6
After playing Boston are 4-6
After a loss are 6-4
New Orleans most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Minnesota are 6-4
After playing Indiana are 4-6
After a win are 5-5
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Jersey's last 6 games on the road
New Jersey is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
New Jersey is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
New Jersey is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of New Orleans's last 8 games at home
New Orleans is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home
New Orleans is 16-7 SU in its last 23 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games when playing New Jersey
Next up:
New Jersey at San Antonio, Friday, January 23
New Orleans at Minnesota, Friday, January 23
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets
Paul Millsap went for 28 points and 15 rebounds to lead the Jazz over the Timberwolves 112-107 on Tuesday night.
Utah couldn't cash as 9.5-point home favorites as the game played over the 205-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Rockets defeated Denver 115-113 as a 2.5-point favorite on Monday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (192.5).
Yao Ming scored a game-high 31 points for Houston, while Rafer Alston added 18 points and 11 assists in the win.
Current streak:
Houston has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
Utah: 25-17 SU, 22-20 ATS
Houston: 26-16 SU, 19-23 ATS
Utah most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing Cleveland are 3-7
After playing Minnesota are 8-2
After a win are 4-6
Houston most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 6-4
Before playing Indiana are 7-3
After playing Denver are 7-3
After a win are 6-4
A few trends to consider:
Utah is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston
Utah is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
Houston is 11-2 SU in its last 13 games at home
Houston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games when playing at home against Utah
The total has gone UNDER in 17 of Houston's last 25 games at home
Next up:
Utah home to Cleveland, Saturday, January 24
Houston at Indiana, Friday, January 23
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Portland Trail Blazers
LeBron James led the Cavaliers with 23 points, nine boards, and four steals in their 105-88 loss to the Lakers on Monday night.
Los Angeles cashed as 4-point home favorites as the teams played under the 200-point total listed by oddsmakers.
Greg Oden scored 24 points and hauled down 15 rebounds, as the Trail Blazers overwhelmed the Bucks 102-85 on Monday night.
Portland covered as 6.5-point home favorites as the game played under the 194-point total listed by oddsmakers.
Team records:
Cleveland: 31-8 SU, 27-12 ATS
Portland: 25-16 SU, 20-21 ATS
Cleveland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing Golden State are 3-7
After playing LA Lakers are 6-4
After a loss are 9-1
Portland most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 7-3
Before playing Washington are 4-6
After playing Milwaukee are 4-6
After a win are 4-6
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games
Cleveland is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games
Cleveland is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Portland
Cleveland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Portland
Portland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games at home
Portland is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Cleveland
Portland is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Cleveland
Next up:
Cleveland at Golden State, Friday, January 23
Portland home to Washington, Saturday, January 24
Washington Wizards vs. Sacramento Kings
The Wizards lost to Golden State 119-98 as a 4.5-point underdog on Monday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (218.5).
Caron Butler, Antawn Jamison and Andray Blatche all scored 22 points for the Wizards in the loss.
Kevin Martin scored 25 points to lead Sacramento in its 118-99 loss to Denver on Tuesday night.
Denver covered as 10-point home favorites as the game played under the 218.5-point total posted by sportsbooks.
Current streak:
Sacramento has lost 2 straight games.
Team records:
Washington: 8-32 SU, 16-24 ATS
Sacramento: 10-32 SU, 19-23 ATS
Washington most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 5-5
Before playing LA Lakers are 5-5
After playing Golden State are 5-5
After a loss are 3-7
Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 3-7
Before playing Milwaukee are 9-1
After playing Denver are 6-4
After a loss are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Sacramento
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Washington's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Washington's last 11 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Sacramento's last 11 games when playing at home against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Sacramento's last 7 games when playing Washington
Sacramento is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Washington
Sacramento is 4-14 SU in its last 18 games at home
Next up:
Washington at LA Lakers, Thursday, January 22
Sacramento at Milwaukee, Saturday, January 24
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Pau Gasol had 22 points and 12 rebounds, as the Lakers tripped up the Cavaliers 105-88 on Monday night.
Los Angeles cashed as 4-point home favorites as the teams played under the 200-point total listed by oddsmakers.
The Clippers lost to Minnesota 94-86 as a 6.5-point underdog on Monday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (194).
Eric Gordon led the Clippers with 25 points and Steve Novak had 18 points in the loss.
Team records:
Los Angeles: 32-8 SU, 19-21 ATS
Los Angeles: 9-31 SU, 17-23 ATS
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 8-2
Before playing Washington are 6-4
After playing Cleveland are 7-3
After a win are 8-2
Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Oklahoma City are 5-5
After playing Minnesota are 2-8
After a loss are 1-9
A few trends to consider:
LA Lakers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing LA Clippers
LA Lakers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing LA Clippers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Lakers last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
LA Lakers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 5 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
The total has gone OVER in 8 of the LA Clippers last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the LA Clippers last 5 games when playing LA Lakers
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the LA Clippers last 6 games at home
Next up:
LA Lakers home to Washington, Thursday, January 22
LA Clippers home to Oklahoma City, Friday, January 23
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Golden State Warriors
The Thunder lost to Miami 104-92 as a 1.5-point favorite on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (193.5).
Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 31 points and Jeff Green had 22 points in the loss.
The Warriors defeated Washington 119-98 as a 4.5-point favorite on Monday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (218.5).
Jamal Crawford scored 28 points and handed out eight assists for Golden State, while Stephen Jackson added 26 points in the win.
Current streak:
Golden State has won 2 straight games.
Team records:
Oklahoma City: 8-34 SU, 27-15 ATS
Golden State: 13-29 SU, 19-23 ATS
Oklahoma City most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 1-9
Before playing LA Clippers are 3-7
After playing Miami are 6-4
After a loss are 5-5
Golden State most recently:
When playing on Wednesday are 2-8
Before playing Cleveland are 3-7
After playing Washington are 5-5
After a win are 3-7
A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oklahoma City's last 8 games when playing on the road against Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oklahoma City's last 7 games when playing Golden State
Oklahoma City is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Oklahoma City is 10-2 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Golden State's last 8 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
Golden State is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Golden State's last 7 games when playing Oklahoma City
Golden State is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
Next up:
Oklahoma City at LA Clippers, Friday, January 23
Golden State home to Cleveland, Friday, January 23
MEMPHIS (11 - 29) at CHARLOTTE (16 - 25)
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 15-24 ATS (-11.4 Units) in all games this season.
MEMPHIS is 37-56 ATS (-24.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 11-20 ATS (-11.0 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
CHARLOTTE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) when the total is between 170 and 179.5 points this season.
CHARLOTTE is 48-24 ATS (+21.6 Units) after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.
CHARLOTTE is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) against Southwest division opponents since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 3-2 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 3-2 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON (34 - 9) at MIAMI (22 - 18)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 5-2 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 5-2 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO (16 - 27) at DETROIT (23 - 17)
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 24-38 ATS (-17.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 46-30 ATS (+13.0 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 28-15 ATS (+11.5 Units) after allowing 85 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 6-2 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 6-2 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX (23 - 16) at NEW YORK (16 - 24)
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in all games this season.
PHOENIX is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
PHOENIX is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 3-2 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 5-0 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS (24 - 17) at MILWAUKEE (20 - 24)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 26-16 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all games this season.
DALLAS is 208-162 ATS (+29.8 Units) as an underdog since 1996.
DALLAS is 199-142 ATS (+42.8 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
MILWAUKEE is 142-181 ATS (-57.1 Units) in non-conference games since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 4-0 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 3-1 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY (19 - 22) at NEW ORLEANS (25 - 13)
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 53-67 ATS (-20.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 17-35 ATS (-21.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 73-57 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 55-37 ATS (+14.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 64-43 ATS (+16.7 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in January games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 48-22 ATS (+23.8 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 58-37 ATS (+17.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in road games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 2-1 against the spread versus NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 3-1 straight up against NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
UTAH (24 - 17) at HOUSTON (26 - 16)
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) against Southwest division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
UTAH is 41-22 ATS (+16.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
UTAH is 13-7 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
UTAH is 13-8 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
10 of 20 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
CLEVELAND (31 - 8) at PORTLAND (25 - 16)
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in home games after a win by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 32-17 ATS (+13.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 27-12 ATS (+13.8 Units) in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 26-12 ATS (+12.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 3-1 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
CLEVELAND is 3-1 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
WASHINGTON (8 - 32) at SACRAMENTO (10 - 31)
Top Trends for this game.
SACRAMENTO is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in non-conference games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 3-1 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 4-0 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS (32 - 8) at LA CLIPPERS (9 - 31)
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAKERS are 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
LA LAKERS are 39-26 ATS (+10.4 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 38-23 ATS (+12.7 Units) in road games after scoring 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 51-70 ATS (-26.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 42-59 ATS (-22.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 22-40 ATS (-22.0 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) in home games revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 23-39 ATS (-19.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 8-2 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 8-2 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY (8 - 34) at GOLDEN STATE (13 - 29)
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 26-15 ATS (+9.5 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 25-12 ATS (+11.8 Units) as an underdog this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in road games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 53-70 ATS (-24.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 41-55 ATS (-19.5 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 210 over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 23-39 ATS (-19.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 67-95 ATS (-37.5 Units) in January games since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 155-196 ATS (-60.6 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 32-56 ATS (-29.6 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) in home games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in home games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 5-4 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 6-3 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
7 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS vs. CHARLOTTE
Memphis is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Memphis is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Charlotte is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
Charlotte is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing Memphis
BOSTON vs. MIAMI
Boston is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Boston is 13-6 SU in its last 19 games on the road
Miami is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Boston
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing at home against Boston
PHOENIX vs. NEW YORK
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Phoenix's last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
Phoenix is 1-5-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
New York is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of New York's last 11 games
TORONTO vs. DETROIT
Toronto is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Toronto is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Detroit is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Detroit is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
DALLAS vs. MILWAUKEE
Dallas is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
Dallas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Milwaukee is 7-0-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing at home against Dallas
Milwaukee is 11-3 SU in its last 14 games when playing at home against Dallas
NEW JERSEY vs. NEW ORLEANS
New Jersey is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
New Jersey is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
New Orleans is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games at home
New Orleans is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home
UTAH vs. HOUSTON
Utah is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
Utah is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 games
Houston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
CLEVELAND vs. PORTLAND
Cleveland is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Cleveland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Portland is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Cleveland
Portland is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Cleveland
WASHINGTON vs. SACRAMENTO
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Sacramento
Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Sacramento
Sacramento is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games
Sacramento is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Washington
LAKERS vs. LA CLIPPERS
LA Lakers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
LA Lakers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
LA Clippers are 6-19 ATS in their last 25 games at home
LA Clippers are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games at home
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. GOLDEN STATE
Oklahoma City is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oklahoma City's last 8 games when playing on the road against Golden State
Golden State is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
Golden State is 6-14 SU in its last 20 games
Hot Teams
-- Bobcats won three of last four games, covered six of last eight.
-- Celtics won their last five games (4-1 vs spread). Miami won three of its last four games.
-- Knicks won three of their last four home games.
-- Hornets won three of their last four games.
-- Rockets won five of their last six games. Utah won three in row and seven of last eight games.
-- Portland won five of its last six home games.
-- Lakers won five of their last seven games.
Cold Teams
-- Grizzlies lost their last six games (0-6 vs spread).
-- Pistons lost seven of their last nine games. Raptors lost their last six games (2-3-1 vs spread).
-- Suns lost three of last four games (0-6 vs spread in last six).
-- Nets lost last three games, by 32-6-20 points.
-- Mavericks lost five of their last six games. Bucks lost three of their last four contests.
-- Cavaliers lost four of their last five road games.
-- Sacramento lost three of its last four games. Wizards lost seven of last eight games (1-6 vs spread in last seven).
-- Clippers lost 13 of their last 14 games (2-4 vs spread in last six).
Totals
-- Under is 3-1-1 in lasr five Charlotte games.
-- Under is 11-2 in Detroit's last thirteen games; four of last five Toronto games went over.
-- Five of last seven Celtic games stayed under the total; six of last seven Miami games went over.
-- Ten of Knicks' last eleven games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six New Jersey games; four of last five Hornet games stayed under.
-- Six of last seven Dallas games stayed under the total.
-- Eight of last ten eleven Utah games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Cleveland games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in Sacramento's last six games.
-- Seven of last ten Clipper games went over the total.
Back-to Back
-- Celtics are 7-3 vs spread when they play again the next night.
-- Jazz are 3-4 on road if they played the night before.
-- Kings are 6-3 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Lakers are 4-4 vs spread if they play again the next night.
Tips and Trends
Cleveland Cavaliers at Portland Trail Blazers
Cavs (-1, O/U 184): Despite a perfect 20-0 home record, Cleveland has been mortal on the road, dropping four of its last five. The Cavs are playing without two starters yet still find themselves as small road favorites against a team that is an impressive 15-4 at home this season. While Cleveland is trying not to make any excuses, it's hard to ignore the reality of the situation. “You know, we’ve just got to get healthy,” Cavs center Ben Wallace said. “It’s tough to come into people’s houses and get a win when you don’t have all of your weapons.”
Cavs are 2-6 ATS in the last 8 meetings at Portland.
The UNDER is 6-2 in Cleveland's last 8 road games.
Key Injuries - G Delonte West (wrist) is OUT.
C Zydrunas Ilgauskas (ankle) is OUT.
PROJECTED SCORE: 90
Blazers: Portland center Greg Oden is coming off the best game of his young career, totaling 24 points, 15 rebounds, two steals and two blocks in a 102-85 rout of the Bucks on Monday. The team's leading scorer had high praise for Oden and hopes his teammate is finally turning the corner. “The attitude he had tonight was better,” Blazers guard Brandon Roy said after beating Milwaukee. “Some nights he’s a little down or has a little foul trouble. Tonight he was vocal and stayed with it, so hopefully he can have some carry over from this game.”
Blazers are 15-7 ATS in their last 22 home games.
The UNDER is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings.
Key Injuries - G Martell Webster (foot) is OUT.
G Steve Blake (shoulder) is OUT.
PROJECTED SCORE: 94 (Side Play of the Day)
NBA Today
SCOREBOARD
Wednesday, Jan. 21
Cleveland at Portland (10 p.m. EST). LeBron James and the Central Division-leading Cavaliers visit the youthful Trail Blazers and 7-foot rookie Greg Oden, who is coming off a 24-point, 15-rebound game against the Bucks.
STARS
Tuesday
— Tim Duncan, Spurs, scored 27 points and had 10 rebounds as San Antonio cruised to a 99-81 victory over Indiana.
— Mike Bibby, Hawks, scored nine of his season-high 31 points in the final five minutes and also had a key steal in the final minute of Atlanta’s 105-102 victory over Chicago.
— Mehmet Okur, Jazz, scored 22 points and hit consecutive late 3-pointers to boost Utah past Minnesota 112-107.
— Chauncey Billups, Nuggets, had 22 points and eight assists as Denver routed Sacramento 118-99.
SWEEP
The Hawks beat Chicago 105-102 to complete a three-game season sweep of the Bulls. Atlanta had never swept the season series from Chicago.
STREAKS
The Jazz won their seventh straight home game, 112-107 over the Timberwolves. Minnesota has lost six in a row at Utah … Kevin Martin scored 25 points in Sacramento’s 118-99 loss at Denver. Martin has scored at least 20 in 11 straight game
SAME OL’ SPURS
At the midway point of the season, the Spurs are 28-13—same as a year ago — despite starting 2-5 and playing without injured stars Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker earlier in the season.
COOLING OFF
After winning 11 of 15 last month, Atlanta is 4-6 in January.
SWINGS
The Kings led the Nuggets by eight after the first quarter, then Denver outscored Sacramento 71-44 in the middle periods of a 118-99 victory.
STINGY
Indiana, the NBA’s third-highest scoring team, was held to its third-lowest output of the season in a 99-81 loss at San Antonio.
HEATING UP
Manu Ginobili, who missed the start of the season while recovering from ankle surgery, scored 26 points in 20 minutes in San Antonio’s 99-81 victory against Indiana. The NBA’s reigning sixth man award winner has scored 20-plus points in three of his last five games.
SIDELINED
Denver Nuggets guard Dahntay Jones separated his right shoulder in pregame warm-ups and was out of the lineup against the Sacramento Kings. Jones, in his first year with the Nuggets, is averaging 6.2 points, 2.2 rebounds and one assist a game. … Chicago forward Drew Gooden missed the Bulls’ game against Atlanta with a strained left groin.
SPEAKING
“That’s pretty much the story of our season so far. We get close, just not very good at closing games out.”—Bulls guard Ben Gordon after Chicago’s 105-102 loss to Atlanta.