The Bum's Best Bets For Saturday April 25th - MLB - NBA -NHL !

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Rangers (6-10) at Angels (8-9)
Game: 2
Venue: Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Date: April 25, 2015 9:05 PM EDT

The Los Angeles Angels signed C.J. Wilson and Josh Hamilton away from the Texas Rangers in back-to-back offseasons with the hopes of winning another World Series.

In the coming days, only Wilson might be left on the Angels roster, and the left-hander will try to avoid a third consecutive loss Saturday night when he faces his former team.

The Angels landed Wilson and Albert Pujols after the 2011 season before signing Hamilton to a five-year contract in 2012, putting themselves on the hook for $125 million in the last deal and a combined $410 million for the three players. Hamilton, owed $83 million in the final three years, is reportedly close to being traded back to the Rangers after failing to duplicate his stellar seasons with Texas and admitting to a drug relapse this past offseason.

"It's going to be resolved one way or another in its own time," manager Mike Scioscia told MLB's official website before Friday's series opener against Texas. "Whatever course this takes, it takes. We're just going to focus on playing baseball."

The 2010 AL MVP and five-time All-Star has been recovering from right shoulder surgery and was on the verge of heading to extended spring training to continue his rehabilitation.

'We know Josh and who he is," Adrian Beltre said. "We hope he's healthy, his mind is in a good position, and he has the support he needs to be the productive Josh that we all know he can be - the Josh that helped us go to the World Series in 2011.'

With Hamilton's departure seemingly imminent, his longtime teammate Wilson (1-2, 3.54 ERA) will try to lead the Angels (8-9) to a third consecutive win and their 17th in 21 games against Texas (6-10) while pitching on six days of rest.

In his most recent start last Saturday, Wilson allowed two runs and three hits in 6 2-3 innings while striking out eight and walking four in a 4-0 loss in Houston. He was tagged for seven runs in 5 2-3 innings in a 9-2 defeat to Kansas City in his prior start April 12.

David Freese's two-run homer in the seventh powered Los Angeles to a 3-2 win Friday in Anaheim, the Angels' third in four meetings this season.

The Angels will face Colby Lewis (1-1, 3.79), who went 0-4 with an 11.07 ERA in his last four starts against them in 2014. The right-hander was charged with eight runs in five innings in his most recent matchup, an 8-5 loss in Anaheim on Sept. 20.

He's also had six days to recover from his lone defeat this season, 3-1 in Seattle last Saturday. He gave up three runs and 10 hits in 5 2-3 innings.

"There wasn't one inning that was very easy," Lewis said. "I didn't really get any quick innings. Seemed like I was always pitching out of the stretch. Always had to work."

Wilson is 1-1 with a 8.76 ERA in his last five starts against Texas, the last in September 2013. Prince Fielder, 6 for 12 lifetime against him and batting .375 this season, will face the left-hander for the first time while in a Rangers uniform.

Pujols is 7 for 15 with two homers in the regular season versus Lewis but batting .177 to start this year. Kole Calhoun, hitting .275, is 6 for 13.

Mike Trout is 3 for 24 in his last seven games but 10 for 19 in a six-game hit streak against the Rangers. He has six hits in his last 15 at_bats against Lewis, including a pair of homers.

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Twins (6-10) at Mariners (7-9)
Game: 2
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: April 25, 2015 9:10 PM EDT

Patiently, the Seattle Mariners are successfully working their way back from a rough start.

The Mariners will try a third time to win three straight games Saturday night against the visiting Minnesota Twins.

Felix Hernandez allowed five hits for his first complete game victory since August 2012 and Nelson Cruz hit his major league-leading ninth home run in Friday's 2-0 win over Minnesota.

"You've got to recognize a good performance on their side," Twins manager Paul Molitor told MLB's official website. "We were trying different things. We tried to be aggressive, we tried to be patient. But nothing was very effective."

A winner in four of six since opening 3-7, Seattle (7-9) continues to go about its business in a calm and confident manner.

"We're happy to come out on top," said Cruz, who is tied for the third-most home runs hit in the opening month of a season in club history.

Batting .328 and also leading the majors with 18 RBIs, Cruz has homered in three straight games versus the Twins (6-10). The only time he went deep in four consecutive contests against the same team was versus Houston in 2013 with Texas.

Cruz went 0 for 2 with a strikeout and was hit by a pitch last season while facing Minnesota's Trevor May (1-1, 4.76 ERA), a native of Longview, Washington, who makes his first professional appearance in his home state. The right-hander looks to build on Sunday's effort when he gave up one run and four hits without a walk through six innings of a 7-2 victory over Cleveland.

May, who went 3-6 with a 7.89 ERA in nine starts for the Twins in 2014, is making his third straight since being called up from Triple-A Rochester to replace the injured the Ricky Nolasco.

'My biggest thing is just be ready to pitch whenever they say you're pitching,' he said.

The Mariners counter with James Paxton (0-1, 8.40), who tries to bounce back after he allowed seven runs and a career-high 10 hits in 2 2-3 innings of Sunday's 11-10 home win over Texas.

"I'm struggling right now, but I'm not going to quit fighting," said the left-hander, who yielded five runs in 6 1-3 innings of his previous start at Dodger Stadium. "I'm going to figure it out and persevere."

Though this will be Paxton's first appearance against the Twins, veteran Torii Hunter is 1 for 5 with a home run against him.

Trevor Plouffe had two hits Friday for Minnesota, which has been shut out three times while going 2-8 on the road. Plouffe is 10 for 23 in his last six games after going 4 for 30 in his first nine.

Seattle's Logan Morrison homered for his first extra-base hit of the season Friday, but is hitting just .185.

'I was more of like `finally it went over the fence,' Morrison said. 'I didn't feel like I was due. You don't think about that as a player you think about each day getting better and trying to feel comfortable."

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Saturday, April 25

Chicago made 38-98 from arc in first three series wins- they held the Bucks to 39%/36%/42% from floor. Bulls won nine of last ten games with Milwaukee (8-1 vs spread in last nine)-- seven of last 11 games stayed under total. Chicago won last six games. Bucks are 14-52 from arc in two games; they've only turned ball over 24 times in three games- six of their last eight games went over total.

New Orleans lost 11 of last 13 games with Golden State, losing by 7-10 in first two games, then blowing 20-point lead in 4th quarter of Game 3. Golden State won 11 of last 13 games, but covered only one of last nine - they got to line 34 times in Game 1, but only 49 times in last two games. Very difficult for Pelicans to bounce back and win game, after they had Warriors by throat last game but got beat in overtime.

Brooklyn lost last seven games with Atlanta, losing by 7-5 in first two series games. Hawks made 22 of 61 from arc, 35-41 on line in pair of home wins. Nets had only ten fast break points in losing twice- they won seven of last nine home games. Johnson was just 12-33 for Nets in Atlanta; he'll have to do better. Hawks lost last two road games- their last road loss was here by 3 on April 8.

Memphis held Portland to 34%/39% from floor in winning first two series games; they were up 19-11 at half in two games. Grizzlies won six in row, 11 of its last 12 games with Portland, covering ten of last eleven. Memphis held the Blazers to 13 fast break points in first two games. Portland is 14-46 from arc in two games, forcing only 13 turnovers in two games. Afflalo is expected back; if he is healthy, that should help Portland a lot.

Home favorites are 10-9 in this round, home dogs are 1-2; home teams are 15-7 SU, with four of six road wins in OT-- over is 9-13.

2015 playoffs
Brooklyn vs Atlanta
Atl 99-92, -10, U201.5
Atl 96-91, -9.5, U202

Boston vs Cleveland
Clev 113-100, -11.5, O203
Clev 99-91, -11, U206
Clev 103-95, -4, U204

Milwaukee vs Chicago
Chi 103-91, -8, O186
Chi 91-82, -8, U190.5
Chi 113-106, 2OT, -2.5, O187

Washington vs Toronto
Wash 93-86 OT, +4, U194.5
Wash 117-106, +5, O193.5
Wash 106-99, -4.5, O195.5

New Orleans vs Golden State
GSt 106-99, -12, U205
GSt 97-87, -13, U206.5
GSt 123-119 OT, -5, O203

Dallas vs Houston
Hst 118-108, -5.5, O212.5
Hst 111-99, -6.5, U214
Hst 130-128, +1, O214.5

San Antonio vs LA Clippers
LAC 107-92, -1.5, U207
SA 111-107 OT, +1.5, O207.5
SA 100-73, -, U203.5

Portland vs Memphis
Mem 100-86, -5.5, U188.5
Mem 97-82, -6, U189

East vs West
SU: West 242-177 ATS: West 214-202-3
East teams HF vs West: 56-57
East teams HU vs West: 46-52
West teams HF vs East: 81-79-3
West teams HU vs East: 24-21




NBA

Saturday, April 25

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Trend Report
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3:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. BROOKLYN
Atlanta is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Brooklyn
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 6 games
Brooklyn is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Brooklyn's last 6 games when playing at home against Atlanta

5:30 PM
CHICAGO vs. MILWAUKEE
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Chicago's last 12 games on the road
Chicago is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Milwaukee is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 games when playing at home against Chicago
Milwaukee is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Chicago

8:00 PM
GOLDEN STATE vs. NEW ORLEANS
Golden State is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Golden State's last 12 games when playing New Orleans
New Orleans is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games when playing at home against Golden State

10:30 PM
MEMPHIS vs. PORTLAND
Memphis is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Memphis's last 22 games when playing on the road against Portland
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games when playing Memphis
Portland is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Memphis

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Saturday, April 25

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Game of the Day: Saturday's NBA Playoffs matchups
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Atlanta Hawks at Brooklyn Nets (+2.5, 200.5)

Hawks lead series 2-0

Atlanta forward Paul Millsap went 2-of-11 from the field while playing with a bulky shoulder brace in Game 1. The All-Star ditched the brace for Game 2 and ended up going 4-of-4 from 3-point range and 7-of-11 from the floor en route to a team-high 19 points. “Definitely more range and definitely more mobility,” Millsap told reporters. “When you can’t pick your arms up above your ears, your shoulders up above your ears, it’s kind of tough. So I was able to do that (in Game 2), and more than likely I’ll go without it again the next game.”

Deron Williams, who drew criticism from former teammate Paul Pierce questioning his desire on the eve of the playoffs, is 6-of-18 from the field in the first two games of the series. "He was defending,” Brooklyn coach Lionel Hollins told reporters of Williams. “He made some hustle plays. Shooting comes and goes. People can criticize all they want, but if you are not in the game performing and doing it and going through the battle, you can't say anything.” Backup point guard Jarrett Jack led the team with 23 points in Game 2.

TRENDS:

* Hawks are 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings in Brooklyn.
* Under is 5-1 in Nets last six overall.
* Hawks are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 vs. NBA Atlantic.


Chicago Bulls at Milwaukee Bucks (+4.5, 188.5)

Bulls lead series 3-0

The Chicago Bulls are eyeing a sweep when they visit the Milwaukee Bucks in Saturday’s Game 4 of the Eastern Conference first-round series. The Bucks have lost nine consecutive playoff contests and blew an opportunity to make it a series by falling 113-106 in double-overtime on Thursday.

Milwaukee led by as many as 18 points in Game 3 but squandered the lead and later came up empty with chances to win in the final seconds of both regulation and the first overtime. “We had a great chance to win the game twice,” Bucks coach Jason Kidd told reporters. “Effort was there the whole night, and guys played their hearts out to give us a chance to win against a very elite team.” The Chicago backcourt of Derrick Rose (34) and Jimmy Butler (24) combined for 58 points in Game 3 and the Bulls knocked down 14 3-pointers – five from Rose and four apiece from Mike Dunleavy and Tony Snell. Chicago center Joakim Noah is averaging 14 rebounds in the series and power forward Pau Gasol (12.7 points, 14.3 rebounds) has posted three straight double-doubles.

TRENDS:

* Bulls are 8-1 ATS in the last nine meetings.
* Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.
* Over is 12-2 in Bulls last 14 Saturday games.


Golden State Warriors at New Orleans Pelicans (+7, 205)

Warriors lead series 3-0

Steph Curry finished with 40 points and Klay Thompson added 28, but Draymond Green’s third double-double of the series and Golden State’s rebounding down the stretch were just as big. Curry missed several shots from deep late in regulation but offensive rebounds led to second chances, including Marreese Speights’ offensive board before the game-tying shot. “It was just determination and will,” Green told reporters. “We have a group of guys whose competitive spirits are through the roof. We never give up.”

Anthony Davis went for 29 points and 15 rebounds in the loss but missed a free throw at the end of regulation that would have put the game out of reach and came up empty on a tying attempt in the final seconds of overtime. The 22-year-old also had trouble keeping the Warriors off the offensive glass down the stretch, even when Golden State went to a small lineup. “We're down 0-3 and it's a must win and we all know that,'' Williams told reporters. ''We had it and we let it go and I can't say it enough, we just didn't execute in the fourth quarter.”

TRENDS:

* Underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.
* Under is 8-3-1 in the last 12 meetings.
* Warriors are 0-6 ATS in their last six games overall.


Memphis Grizzlies at Portland Trail Blazers (-3, 188.5)

Grizzlies lead series 2-0

The Portland Trail Blazers still have time to make it a series with Memphis but they need to chime in with a strong Game 3 performance on Saturday to make it happen. The Grizzlies won each of the first two games of the Western Conference first-round series by double digits while controlling both contests.

Memphis’ physical style appears to be more than the Trail Blazers can handle as Portland has lost all six meetings this season with the Grizzlies and trailed by as many as 29 points in the opener and 18 in Game 2. “We can’t look at the first two games and say it’s impossible,” point guard Damian Lillard told reporters. “We’ve just got to keep believing.” Trail Blazers star LaMarcus Aldridge averaged 28 points and 14 rebounds in the first two games and the Grizzlies were still able to hold Portland to an average of 84 points. And Aldridge had to hoist 54 shots – making a subpar 37 percent – to score one-third of the Trail Blazers’ points.

TRENDS:

* Grizzlies are 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
* Under is 4-0 in the last four meetings.
* Trail Blazers are 0-6 ATS in their last six vs. Western Conference.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Saturday, April 25


Grizzlies are on fire ATS vs. Trail Blazers

The Memphis Grizzlies head west to Portland for Game 3 of their first-round series on Saturday carrying a 2-0 series lead.

History is showing that the Grizz have simply been too much for the Blazers both on the court and at the betting window. The Grizzlies are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 contests against Portland.

The Trail Blazers are presently listed as 3-point underdogs with a total of 188.5.


Warriors have become a bad bet all of a sudden

It's been six straight games since the Golden State Warriors covered the spread, a trend Dubs bettors will hope reverses itself Saturday in New Orleans.

The Warriors, who hold a 3-0 lead in their first-round series over the Pelicans, have been tabbed as 7-point road favorites for the clash.

The total was sitting at 205 as of this writing.



NBA roundup: Rockets, Wizards grab 3-0 series leads

DALLAS -- James Harden scored a career-playoff-high 42 points and the Houston Rockets withstood Dallas' desperate punch to beat the Mavericks 130-128 and take a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference playoff series Friday night.

Houston trailed by 13 in the first half before storming back behind Harden, an MVP candidate shooting guard who scored 16 points in third quarter and knocked down a jumper with 13 seconds left that helped nail down the win. Center Dwight Howard had a playoff career-best 26 rebounds and scored 13 points.

The Mavericks had their chances in the final minute. Power forward Dirk Nowitzki (34 points) drilled three free throws with 34 seconds remaining to pull Dallas within 127-126. Harden followed with his final basket before Mavs shooting guard Monta Ellis banked in a driving layup to make it a one-point game again.

Rockets guard Corey Brewer (15 points) made one of two free throws, giving Dallas one last shot. Ellis, however, couldn't add to the highest-scoring game of his playoff career as he missed a jumper from the top of the key as time expired. Ellis finished with 34 points.

Wizards 106, Raptors 99

WASHINGTON -- Center Marcin Gortat scored 24 points and guard John Wall had 19 points and 15 assists as Washington opened a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven playoff series.

Six Wizards scored in double figures, including forward Paul Pierce with 18 points on four 3-pointers. Pierce and Otto Porter fueled a decisive 10-2 run late in the fourth quarter and both forwards sank two 3-point shots inside the final 4:23. Pierce's final bomb with 16.9 seconds left came after the Raptors pulled to 102-99.

Toronto's DeMar DeRozan started 8 of 10 from the field and scored 20 of his 32 points in the first quarter. However, the shooting woes that plagued him and backcourt partner Kyle Lowry in Toronto returned. The Raptors shot 37.4 percent from the field.

Spurs 100, Clippers 73

SAN ANTONIO -- Kawhi Leonard was handed the NBA defensive player of the year award and then showed his versatility at both ends of the court, scoring a career-best 32 points and adding three steals as San Antonio took a 2-1 lead in the first-round playoff series.

Leonard, MVP of the 2014 NBA Finals after the Spurs' fifth title, had 13 points in the third quarter, outscoring the Clippers by two. He converted 13 of 18 shots from field, including three 3-pointers.

The Clippers shot just 34.1 percent from the floor while suffering their worst-ever playoff defeat. Forward Blake Griffin and guard Chris Paul scored 14 and 10 points, respectively.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Long Sheet

Saturday, April 25

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ATLANTA (62 - 22) at BROOKLYN (38 - 46) - 4/25/2015, 3:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 13-30 ATS (-20.0 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 12-29 ATS (-19.9 Units) in road games in all playoff games since 1996.
BROOKLYN is 54-37 ATS (+13.3 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 49-32 ATS (+13.8 Units) in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 36-23 ATS (+10.7 Units) as a favorite this season.
ATLANTA is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 200 and 204.5 points this season.
BROOKLYN is 56-81 ATS (-33.1 Units) in home games when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 7-6 against the spread versus BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 9-4 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CHICAGO (53 - 32) at MILWAUKEE (41 - 44) - 4/25/2015, 5:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 20-34 ATS (-17.4 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 45-37 ATS (+4.3 Units) in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 136-102 ATS (+23.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1996.
MILWAUKEE is 50-72 ATS (-29.2 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) second half of the season this season.
MILWAUKEE is 20-36 ATS (-19.6 Units) on Saturday games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 182-225 ATS (-65.5 Units) after a division game since 1996.
MILWAUKEE is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home games revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 30-46 ATS (-20.6 Units) in home games revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 46-65 ATS (-25.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
MILWAUKEE is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 10-5 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 11-4 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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GOLDEN STATE (70 - 15) at NEW ORLEANS (45 - 40) - 4/25/2015, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 48-35 ATS (+9.5 Units) in all games this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 28-13 ATS (+13.7 Units) as an underdog this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 25-16 ATS (+7.4 Units) in home games this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 41-23 ATS (+15.7 Units) in home games in April games since 1996.
NEW ORLEANS is 97-69 ATS (+21.1 Units) on Saturday games since 1996.
NEW ORLEANS is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) against Pacific division opponents this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 26-16 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 30-21 ATS (+6.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 46-35 ATS (+7.5 Units) in all games this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 42-29 ATS (+10.1 Units) as a favorite this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 33-24 ATS (+6.6 Units) after scoring 105 points or more this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 24-14 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 29-18 ATS (+9.2 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 35-22 ATS (+10.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 8-5 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 13-1 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MEMPHIS (57 - 27) at PORTLAND (51 - 33) - 4/25/2015, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 45-29 ATS (+13.1 Units) after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MEMPHIS is 87-67 ATS (+13.3 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 9-21 ATS (-14.1 Units) in April games over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 25-41 ATS (-20.1 Units) against Southwest division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 7-19 ATS (-13.9 Units) in home games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 10-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 10-3 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 11-2 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Saturday, April 25


Atlanta Hawks @ Brooklyn Nets

Game 745-746
April 25, 2015 @ 3:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta Hawks
123.130
Brooklyn Nets
115.885
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Atlanta Hawks
by 6 1/2
196
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Atlanta Hawks
by 2 1/2
201
Dunkel Pick:
Atlanta Hawks
(-2 1/2); Under

Chicago Bulls @ Milwaukee Bucks

Game 747-748
April 25, 2015 @ 5:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago Bulls
121.702
Milwaukee Bucks
123.877
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee Bucks
by 2
183
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Bulls
by 5
188 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee Bucks
(+5); Under

Golden State Warriors @ New Orleans Pelicans

Game 749-750
April 25, 2015 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Golden State Warr
126.180
New Orleans Pelic
125.285
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Golden State Warr
by 1
211
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Golden State Warr
by 7 1/2
205 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New Orleans Pelic
(+7 1/2); Over

Memphis Grizzlies @ Portland Trail Blazers

Game 751-752
April 25, 2015 @ 10:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Memphis Grizzlies
117.979
Portland Trail Bl
124.900
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Portland Trail Bl
by 7
193
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Portland Trail Bl
by 2 1/2
188 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Portland Trail Bl
(-2 1/2); Over

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Saturday, April 25


Under Popovich, Spurs are dynamite when leading 2-1

The San Antonio Spurs hammered the Los Angeles Clippers 100-73 in Game 3 of their first-round series Friday night, putting the reigning champions up 2-1 in the process.

Under head coach Gregg Popovich, the Spurs have won 84 percent of their best-of-seven playoff series (16-3) when leading 2-1.

Game 4 is set to get underway in the Lone Star State on Sunday. The line for the tilt is currently off the board.

[StarDust Bum]

NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Saturday, April 25

Detroit had 2-1 series edge and 2-0 lead with 6:00 left in Game 4, but gave up two goals in 1:14 and then lost in OT, so they go back to Florida with series tied. Red Wings lost four of last five visits to Tampa; Lightning is 2-21 on power play in series, Red Wings 2-15. Lightning won nine of their last 13 games vs Detroit- under is 8-4-1 in last 13 series games. Tampa Bay won five of last seven games overall, allowing 14 goals. Under is 5-2-2 in Lightning's last nine games. Red Wings won three of last five road games.

Islanders are 5-9 in last fourteen games overall, with under 3-2-1 in last six vs Caps. Isles are 0-12 on power play in series-- only 22 penalties total were called in last four games (Washington is 1-10 on power play in series). Caps won eight of their last 12 games; they outshot Islanders 41-23 last game, 42-27 in third period of last four games. Caps split last four road games, with last three all ending up in 2-1 finals. Islanders split last four at home; they scored total of seven goals in last four games overall. Home side won seven of last nine series games.

Nashville showed onions, winning Game 5 at home to stave off elimination after losing Game 4 at 1am local time in triple OT; Predators lost nine of last 11 games overall with pair of multiple-OT losses in this series- they lost six of last nine games with Chicago, with five of last six going over total. Predators scored 6-5 goals in two series wins, 3-2-2 in losses- they lost last four road games, scoring total of seven goals. Home side won four of five games in this series, with four of five games in this playoff series going over total.

Calgary is up 3-2 in this series, has won five of last seven games with Vancouver- under is 5-1-2 in last eight series games, but Canucks outshot them 43-21 in Game 5, staying alive in series they're favored to win. Flames have now won eight of last twelve games; under is 7-2-1 in last ten Calgary games. Vancouver is 2-14 on power play in series, Calgary is 4-14- they've only scored eleven goals in whole series. Home teams are 23-15 in this round; over is 17-15-6. Vancouver needs win to force seventh game at home.

2015 NHL playoffs
Montreal vs Ottawa
Mtl 4-3, -$140, O5
Mtl 3-2 OT, -$140, N5
Mtl 2-1 OT, +$110, U5
Ott 1-0, -$106, U5
Ott 5-1, _$139, O5

Tampa Bay vs Detroit
Det 3-2, +$155, U5.5
TB 5-1, -$200, U5.5
Det 3-0, -$105, U5.5
TB 3-2 OT, -$107, N5

NY Rangers vs Pittsburgh
NYR 2-1, -$180, U5
Pitt 4-3, +$175, O5
NYR 2-1, even U5
NYR 2-1 OT, -$119, U5
NYR 2-1 OT, -$178, U5
Rangers win series 4-1

Washington vs NY Islanders
NYI 4-1, +125, N5
Wash 4-3, -$135, O5.5
NYI 2-1 OT, -$140, U5.5
Wash 2-1 OT, +$125, U5.5
Wash 5-1, -4130, O5

St Louis vs Minnesota
Minn 4-2, +$125, O5
StL 4-1, -$140, N5
Minn 3-0, -$135, U5
StL 6-1, +$128, O5
Minn 4-1, +$128, N5

Nashville vs Chicago
Chi 4-3 2OT, +$105, O5
Nash 6-2, -$120, O5
Chi 4-2, -$160, O5
Chi 3-2 3OT, -$160, U5.5
Nash 5-2, -$119, O5

Anaheim vs Winnipeg
Ana 4-2, -$150, O5
Ana 2-1, -$150, U5
Ana 5-4 OT, +$120, O5
Ana 5-2, +$106, O5.5
Ducks win series, 4-0

Vancouver vs Calgary
Cal 2-1, +$135, U5
Van 4-1, -$155, N5
Cal 4-2, -$115, O5
Cal 3-1, -$120, U5
Van 2-1, -$147, U5




NHL

Saturday, April 25

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Trend Report
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3:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. NY ISLANDERS
Washington is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Islanders
Washington is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of the NY Islanders last 11 games at home
NY Islanders are 3-9 SU in their last 12 games at home

6:00 PM
DETROIT vs. TAMPA BAY
Detroit is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games when playing Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Tampa Bay is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games when playing Detroit

8:00 PM
NASHVILLE vs. CHICAGO
Nashville is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Nashville's last 5 games
Chicago is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Nashville
Chicago is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games

9:00 PM
VANCOUVER vs. CALGARY
Vancouver is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Vancouver is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Calgary
Calgary is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Calgary's last 10 games

[StarDust Bum]

NHL

Saturday, April 25


NHL roundup: Rangers top Pens in OT to advance

NEW YORK Carl Hagelin scored with 9:08 remaining in overtime to give the New York Rangers a 2-1 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 5 of their first-round series at Madison Square Garden on Friday.

Derek Stepan also had a goal for the Rangers while Henrik Lundqvist stopped 37 shots.

Nick Spaling scored for the Penguins, who were backed by Marc-Andre Fleury 34 stops.

Mats Zuccarello left the game in the first period with an undisclosed injury and did not return for the Rangers.

Senators 5, Canadiens 1

MONTREAL -- Two first-period goals paced Ottawa's win in Montreal at the Bell Centre.

The win cut Montreal's series lead to 3-2, with Game 6 scheduled for Sunday in Ottawa.

Bobby Ryan, Erik Condra, Mike Hoffman, Patrick Wiercoch and Erik Karlsson scored for Ottawa. Tom Gilbert had the Canadiens' goal.

Craig Anderson stopped 45 shots for the Senators and Carey Price made 20 saves for Montreal.

Wild 4, Blues 1

ST. LOUIS -- Devan Dubnyk made 36 saves, including all 19 he faced in the third period, to help Minnesota take a 3-2 lead in its Western Conference quarterfinal series with a win over St. Louis at sold-out Scottrade Center.

Marco Scandella, Nino Niederreiter, Mikko Koivu and Charlie Coyle scored for the Wild, who can clinch the series Sunday in Game 6 in St. Paul.

Jake Allen, who played brilliantly in the series' first four games, gave up four goals on just 19 shots, while Vladimir Tarasenko scored the Blues' lone goal.

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NHL
Long Sheet

Saturday, April 25

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DETROIT (45-26-0-15, 105 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (52-26-0-8, 112 pts.) - 4/25/2015, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 12-22 ATS (-17.5 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
TAMPA BAY is 15-2 ATS (+11.2 Units) in home games vs. division opponents this season.
TAMPA BAY is 177-190 ATS (+451.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 9-4 (+4.2 Units) against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
TAMPA BAY is 9-4-0 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
8 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.4 Units)

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NASHVILLE (49-26-0-12, 110 pts.) at CHICAGO (51-30-0-6, 108 pts.) - 4/25/2015, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NASHVILLE is 1-9 ATS (+10.9 Units) in road games after a win by 2 goals or more this season.
NASHVILLE is 6-17 ATS (-14.5 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game this season.
NASHVILLE is 9-17 ATS (-10.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.
CHICAGO is 48-16 ATS (+16.4 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 189-134 ATS (+34.1 Units) on Saturday games since 1996.
CHICAGO is 26-24 ATS (-8.6 Units) second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 12-7 (+1.5 Units) against the spread versus NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 12-7-0 straight up against NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
9 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.1 Units)

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WASHINGTON (48-27-0-12, 108 pts.) at NY ISLANDERS (49-30-0-8, 106 pts.) - 4/25/2015, 3:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY ISLANDERS are 23-12 ATS (+6.4 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
WASHINGTON is 39-32 ATS (+78.4 Units) in road games in April games since 1996.
NY ISLANDERS are 24-26 ATS (-12.9 Units) second half of the season this season.
NY ISLANDERS are 15-31 ATS (-19.7 Units) on Saturday games over the last 2 seasons.
NY ISLANDERS are 4-10 ATS (-9.3 Units) in home games after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game over the last 2 seasons.
NY ISLANDERS are 9-16 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 9-7 (+1.3 Units) against the spread versus NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 9-7-0 straight up against NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
9 of 16 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.2 Units)

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VANCOUVER (50-32-0-5, 105 pts.) at CALGARY (48-32-0-7, 103 pts.) - 4/25/2015, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
VANCOUVER is 42-51 ATS (-19.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CALGARY is 48-39 ATS (+87.5 Units) in all games this season.
CALGARY is 19-10 ATS (+31.1 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5 or less over the last 2 seasons.
CALGARY is 27-21 ATS (+2.2 Units) second half of the season this season.
CALGARY is 25-9 ATS (+15.7 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
CALGARY is 22-11 ATS (+10.6 Units) after a division game this season.
CALGARY is 13-6 ATS (+20.1 Units) after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game this season.
CALGARY is 14-8 ATS (+23.5 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
VANCOUVER is 22-16 ATS (+38.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
VANCOUVER is 13-6 (+5.3 Units) against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
VANCOUVER is 13-6-0 straight up against CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
9 of 16 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.8 Units)

[StarDust Bum]

NHL
Dunkel

Saturday, April 25


Detroit Red Wings @ Tampa Bay Lightning

Game 1-2
April 25, 2015 @ 6:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit Red Wings
11.475
Tampa Bay Lightni
13.087
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tampa Bay Lightni
by 1 1/2
4
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Tampa Bay Lightni
-185
5
Dunkel Pick:
Tampa Bay Lightni
(-185); Under

Nashville Predators @ Chicago Blackhawks

Game 3-4
April 25, 2015 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Nashville Predato
9.102
Chicago *********
12.233
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago *********
by 3
4
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago *********
-170
5
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago *********
(-170); Under

Washington Capitals @ New York Islanders

Game 5-6
April 25, 2015 @ 3:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington Capita
13.383
New York Islander
9.806
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington Capita
by 3 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New York Islander
-135
5
Dunkel Pick:
Washington Capita
(+115); Over

Vancouver Canucks @ Calgary Flames

Game 7-8
April 25, 2015 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Vancouver Canucks
12.983
Calgary Flames
10.076
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Vancouver Canucks
by 3
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Calgary Flames
-130
5
Dunkel Pick:
Vancouver Canucks
(+110); Over

[StarDust Bum]

NHL

Saturday, April 25

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Saturday's NHL Playoffs betting cheat sheet
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Washington Capitals vs. New York Islanders (-125, 5)
Capitals lead series 3-2

The Washington Capitals can punch their ticket into the second round of the playoffs and put the final nail in the coffin for the New York Islanders at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum when the Metropolitan Division rivals play Game 6 on Saturday afternoon. Evgeny Kuznetsov collected two goals and an assist as Washington posted a 5-1 triumph over New York on Thursday to seize a 3-2 edge in the series.

The Islanders could be playing their last game at the Coliseum, as the team is slated to move to Barclays Center in Brooklyn (N.Y.) next season. "It's obvious that there's a lot of emotion in the building," New York coach Jack Capuano said after Friday's practice. "At some point, it was going to come to this ... We want to play our best in front of this crowd." The Islanders posted a 25-14-2 record at home this season, equaling their most such victories since 1984-85.

TRENDS:

*Islanders are 6-13 in their last 19 overall.
*Home team is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings.
*Capitals are 7-3 in their last 10 road games.
*Islanders are 3-9 in their last 12 home games.


Detroit Red Wings at Tampa Bay Lightning (-182, 5)
Series tied 2-2

Fueled by the momentum of a stirring comeback, the Tampa Bay Lightning look to seize control of their Eastern Conference first-round series with the Detroit Red Wings when the Atlantic Division rivals reconvene at Amalie Arena for Game 5 on Saturday. Petr Mrazek saw his shutout streak of more than 119 minutes come to an end late in the third period, and the Lightning overcame a two-goal deficit to post a stunning 3-2 overtime victory on Thursday.

After scoring twice in Game 2, Tyler Johnson netted his second goal of the contest 2:25 into overtime and Ondrej Palat also tallied late to tie the series at two victories apiece. "It's always nice when you're 2-2 instead of 3-1. That’s a big shift there," Johnson said. "I think especially going back in front of our crowd now, it’s a best of three, we have home ice again." Tampa Bay owned the best home record during the regular season (32-8-1), although Detroit claimed a 3-2 road victory in Game 1.

TRENDS:

*Lightning are 5-2 in their last 7 overall.
*Under is 3-1-1 in Red Wings last 5 overall.
*Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings.
*Home team is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.


Nashville Predators at Chicago Blackhawks (-168, 5)
Blackhawks lead 3-2

After failing on their initial attempt, the Calgary Flames take a second shot at winning their first playoff series in 11 years when they host the Vancouver Canucks in Game 6 of their Western Conference first-round matchup on Saturday. Calgary, which hasn't advanced past the opening round since making a trip to the Stanley Cup final in 2004, split the first two games of the series in Vancouver before capturing the next two contests at Scotiabank Saddledome to grab a 3-1 lead.

With a chance to set up a second-round showdown with Pacific Division-rival Anaheim, the Flames were unable to seal the deal Thursday, dropping a 2-1 decision at Rogers Arena despite scoring first. David Jones gave Calgary an early lead as he scored his second goal of the series 2:40 into the contest, but Nick Bonino forged a tie in the middle period and Daniel Sedin snapped it 1:47 into the third. Ryan Miller made 20 saves in his first start since the regular-season finale as the Canucks avoided their third first-round exit in as many postseason appearances. Vancouver has not won a playoff series since 2011, when it lost to Boston in seven games in the Stanley Cup final.

TRENDS:

*Predators are 2-9 in their last 11 overall.
*Over is 4-1-1 in Blackhawks last 6 overall.
*Predators are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Chicago.
*Over is 9-2-3 in Predators last 14 overall.


Vancouver Canucks at Calgary Flames (-126, 5)
Flames lead series 3-2

After failing on their initial attempt, the Calgary Flames take a second shot at winning their first playoff series in 11 years when they host the Vancouver Canucks in Game 6 of their Western Conference first-round matchup on Saturday. Calgary, which hasn't advanced past the opening round since making a trip to the Stanley Cup final in 2004, split the first two games of the series in Vancouver before capturing the next two contests at Scotiabank Saddledome to grab a 3-1 lead.

With a chance to set up a second-round showdown with Pacific Division-rival Anaheim, the Flames were unable to seal the deal Thursday, dropping a 2-1 decision at Rogers Arena despite scoring first. David Jones gave Calgary an early lead as he scored his second goal of the series 2:40 into the contest, but Nick Bonino forged a tie in the middle period and Daniel Sedin snapped it 1:47 into the third. Ryan Miller made 20 saves in his first start since the regular-season finale as the Canucks avoided their third first-round exit in as many postseason appearances. Vancouver has not won a playoff series since 2011, when it lost to Boston in seven games in the Stanley Cup final.

TRENDS:

*Under is 5-1-2 in the last 8 meetings.
*Canucks are 0-4 in their last 4 road games.
*Home team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
*Flames are 22-7 in their last 29 vs. Pacific

[StarDust Bum]

NHL

Saturday, April 25


Under continues to sizzle in Rangers' playoff games

The New York Rangers ended the Pittsburgh Penguins' season thanks to a 2-1 overtime victory in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series Friday, while continuing a red-hot totals trend in doing so.

Dating back to the 2011 NHL Playoffs, the Under is 16-32-19 in 67 postseason games for the Blueshirts.

New York will face the winner of Washington and the cross-town rival Islanders in the next round.


Blackhawks to stick with Darling in net for Game 6

Despite allowing four goals on 28 shots in Thursday's 5-2 loss to the Nashville Predators, Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Scott Darling will be between the pipes in Game 6 Saturday.

Darling, who relieved struggling incumbent starter Corey Crawford in Game 3, has led his squad to three wins in the first-round series. The Hawks own a 3-2 lead with the Windy City set to play host once again on the weekend.

Books are dealing Chicago as healthy -165 moneyline favorites for the postseason clash.

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NHL

Saturday, April 25


Blackhawks cashing the Over with ease in postseason games

The Chicago Blackhawks have been a boon for Over bettors in postseason clashes as of late, evidenced by the Over going 17-7-2 in the Hawks' playoff games over the last two years.

Chicago holds a 3-2 series lead over Nashville and can send the Preds golfing with a win in the Windy City Saturday. So far in the first-round series, the Over has paid out in four out of the five contests.

Despite having a rough outing in Game 5, Scott Darling will return to the crease for the Blackhawks in place of regular starter Corey Crawford.

Oddsmakers currently list Chicago as a -168 moneyline favorite with a total of 5.

[StarDust Bum]

Saturday's Late Tips

April 25, 2015

Warriors at Pelicans – 8:05 PM EST – ESPN
Game 4 – Golden State leads 3-0

Heading into Saturday’s action, four road teams own commanding 3-0 leads in the NBA playoffs, as the Warriors can be the first team in the Western Conference to advance to the semifinals. Late Thursday night, it seemed like Golden State was headed to Game 4 with a 2-1 series advantage as Steve Kerr’s club trailed by 20 points going into the final quarter. The top overall seed in the playoffs wasn’t about to pack it in, led by MVP candidate Stephen Curry.

The Warriors outscored the Pelicans, 39-19 in the fourth quarter, highlighted by an acrobatic three-pointer in the final seconds by Curry to force overtime. Curry put up 40 points, including 17 points in the final 11 minutes, as Golden State captured a 3-0 lead in a playoff series for the first time since the 1975 Finals when it swept Washington in four games. Curry’s backcourt mate Klay Thompson scored at least 20 points for the third straight time in this series, posting a 28-point effort, while knocking down six three-pointers.

In spite of the loss, New Orleans shot 51% from the floor and covered for the third consecutive game, this time as 5 ½-point underdogs. Anthony Davis continues to dominate in the middle, scoring 29 points and pulling down 15 rebounds, the second straight double-double for the New Orleans All-Star center. Ryan Anderson came off the bench to provide a spark by scoring 26 points, while Norris Cole contributed 16 for the Pelicans, who improved to 6-0 ATS as a home underdog since the All-Star break.

In the last two postseasons, home teams down 3-0 have been a coin-toss proposition, owning a 3-4 SU/ATS record in Game 4, which includes a 2-3 SU/ATS mark in the first round. Since the start of April, the Warriors have covered just two of 11 times, including a 1-3 ATS mark away from Oracle Arena.

VegasInsider.com NBA analyst Chris David provides his views on how the Pelicans recover Thursday’s meltdown, “I’m guessing the fans in New Orleans are already looking toward football season after Thursday’s epic collapse in Game 3. Like everybody else, I believe the Pelicans are done but the smart bet is to take the points on Saturday. Why wouldn’t you? Forget about the 20-point collapse and focus on the betting result, which was a New Orleans cover, its third in the series.”

What about tonight? David believes the home ‘dog is the side to back, “The line has already been juiced up for the sweep and I think it’s a tad too much. What has Golden State done to warrant your bet? They were the ones fading in Game 1 and even when New Orleans didn’t show up in Game 2, the Warriors still only captured a 10-point win. I’ll grab the 7 ½ points at home, especially when you have arguably the best overall player on the court in Davis.”

Grizzlies at Blazers – 10:35 PM EST – ESPN
Game 3 – Memphis leads 2-0

The Blazers return home after getting stomped twice in Memphis, looking to dig out of an 0-2 hole. The Grizzlies cruised from start to finish in the series opener, building a 29-point lead in a 100-86 rout of the Blazers to cash as 5 ½-point favorites. Portland put up a better effort early in Game 2, jumping out to a 10-2 advantage, but led by just two points after the first quarter. Then the flood gates opened in the second quarter as the Blazers were staring at another loss to the Grizzlies.

Memphis outscored Portland in the second quarter, 31-18, as Grizzlies’ guard Mike Conley scored nine points in the period, while a 16-2 run by Memphis put the game away at halftime. The Grizzlies took control of the series with a 97-82 triumph as six-point favorites to beat the Blazers for the sixth time in six tries this season. The ‘under’ cashed for the second straight game as LaMarcus Aldridge and Damian Lillard struggled from the floor once again, combining to shoot 12-of-36, but the two All-Stars scored 42 points between them.

The Grizzlies won in spite of a mediocre shooting night from the frontcourt duo of Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, who combined to go 9-of-31 from the floor for 25 points. Beno Udrih picked up the slack off the bench in Game 1 with 20 points, while Courtney Lee stepped up in Game 2 with an 18-point effort and Vince Carter drilled a trio of three-pointers to help put the game away in the second half.

Memphis has won four of the past five visits to the Moda Center, including a pair of victories this season. Dave Joerger’s club knocked off the Blazers, 112-99 as 3 ½-point underdogs in late November, while erasing a 13-point fourth quarter deficit in a 98-92 triumph in late February. The Grizzlies are seeking their first ever 3-0 lead in a playoff series in franchise history, as Memphis has put together an 8-14 SU and 12-8-2 ATS record since 2010 in road postseason contests.

David believes even though the Blazers have struggled so far, they are worth a look, “If you base your bets on the odds then your lean should be on Portland. I thought the line should’ve been pick ‘em or perhaps Blazers -1 but the books open them -2 ½ points and the early money has pushed the number up to -3 at most shops. I wouldn’t be surprised if they go down 0-3 but the oddsmakers are expecting a much better effort in Game 3. I’m actually tempted to take Portland in the first-half (-1 ½) in this spot and then come back with Memphis in the second-half, expecting the visitors to weather the early storm and rally with its defense.”

Terry Stotts’ squad failed to cover in all four opportunities as a home favorite in last season’s run to the second round of the playoffs, going 0-3 ATS in the first round against Houston. The only game the Blazers covered came in Game 4 to the Spurs as a 4 ½-point underdog, while posting a 1-10 ATS record in their past 11 postseason contests.