The Bum's Best Bets For Friday May 15th - MLB - NBA -NHL !

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MLB

Friday, May 15


Wind blowing out at Wrigley Field Friday

According to weather forecasts, wind will blow out to center field at around 11 miles per hour when the Chicago Cubs host the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field Friday afternoon.

The Cubs are slated to start Kyle Hendricks with the Pirates scheduled to give Jeff Locke the ball.

The total remains off the board as of Friday morning.


No run support cashing Unders in Odorizzi starts

Tampa Bay Rays' starter Jake Odorizzi gets the least amount of run support in the American League at 2.00 runs scored. Combine that with his 2.09 ERA and 0.91 WHIP and you've got one of the hottest Under pitchers in the bigs.

Odorizzi has made seven starts thus far and the Under has cashed in six of those games.

Odorizzi is the probable starter as the Rays visit the Minnesota Twins Friday evening. The total is presently 7.5.

[StarDust Bum]

Weekend Primer

May 15, 2015


Upcoming Series to Watch

New York Yankees at Kansas City Royals

Not too long ago, any time the Yankees and Royals hooked up for a series, the result would almost always be the same, as New York always had their number. In fact, in their last 111 meetings against one another, the Yankees own an incredible 77-34 record. Times have changed significantly, though, as this is now viewed as one of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend, in this battle between two American League behemoths that appear ticketed for a trip to the postseason.

There could be a lot of offense in this high-profile series, considering how both lineups have performed up to this point. The Royals have been firmly atop everyone in team batting average all year with a .287 mark (a full ten points up on the next closest team, Detroit) and their 173 runs place them third, only behind the Blue Jays and Dodgers. The Yankees aren't far behind in that category with 165 runs scored, and their 44 long balls place them third in team home runs. We'll see how this dynamic matches up in game one tonight against some stellar pitching, as Michael Pineda takes the hill for the first time since his 16-strikeout performance, opposite veteran Chris Young, who has looked very good in his couple of spot starts, and now possesses a regular spot in the rotation with Jason Vargas going down. The over/under is 7 so something must give in the opener.

Detroit Tigers at St. Louis Cardinals

Without question, this easily ranks up there as one of the most anticipated series of the weekend, featuring two timeless sports franchises. The major league-best Cardinals will aim to continue their distinct winning ways at home at Busch Stadium against the Tigers, who might be one of the few teams that can match up with them evenly.

While the Cardinals are ranked high in all the major categories on both sides of the ball, so are the Tigers, who are trying to get back into first in the AL Central. St. Louis is sixth in team batting average (.267), but Detroit is second with a .277 mark, while also being in the top ten with 155 runs scored. However, it’s been on the pitching side of things where the Cardinals have reign supreme the most, with the majors’ best team ERA (2.69) and fewest home runs allowed (19). From a handicapping perspective, this might be the toughest series to wager on, with it easily being capable of going either way. The key stat, however, might be the fact that the Cards are a remarkable 39-12 in their last 51 home games dating back to last season. Carlos Martinez toes the rubber for St. Louis in game one against Shane Greene.

Washington Nationals at San Diego Padres

I'm intrigued by this series of legitimate National League contenders. The Nationals have righted their ship, utilizing a run in which they won 12 of their last 15 to ascend two games over .500. Despite losing the opener at Petco last night, their offense has been producing at a ridiculous rate, having scored five or more runs in seven of their past eight games. In the process, Washington has become a popular favorite for over bettors, going 9-1 for the over in their last ten (largely thanks to the torrid run of Bryce Harper), including eight in a row.

Meanwhile, the Padres are entering a groove of their own, as they try to cut the gap separating them from first-place Los Angeles in the NL West. They've won two straight and 8 of 13 overall, and like the Nationals, have been cashing overs excessively. In fact, they have one of the majors' best records for over bets thus far at 22-13-1, and after helping contribute to yet another such proposition last night, there could be more in store within this series. Both clubs rank in the top five in baseball in runs scored with 170 and 169, respectively.

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Baltimore Orioles

The Angels have suddenly gotten everything in order, having won six of eight to vault up to second place in the messy AL West division. The Orioles, on the other hand, have been very inconsistent in the early going and find themselves in the AL East cellar. They enter this meeting with six losses in their last nine games. As a result, this could be a telling series for both reigning division winners, as one seeks to sustain their current run and reclaim their throne, while the other is still trying to get out first gear in order to catch up to first-place New York. On the surface, the Orioles appear to have a favorable spot as it relates to the opening affair of this series, as the Angels are 2-6 in their last eight road games, and 2-7 in game one starter Jered Weaver’s last nine assignments. Being 43-18 in their last 61 home games dating back to last season, Baltimore might use this upcoming home set at Camden Yards to springboard back into form.

Other Weekend Thoughts

-- After stumbling a bit and falling to .500, the Cubs have picked it up again and are coming off a very impressive four-game sweep at Wrigley of the fellow upstart New York Mets. As their youngsters continue to get acclimated to the rigors of the Major League Baseball schedule, they're only going to develop more consistency, with this past week's slate providing a glimpse of what they're capable of. They especially received excellent pitching, yielding only ten runs combined in the four games versus the Mets. This weekend they take on the division rival Pirates, who have lost two in a row to lowly Philadelphia. As a result, the Cubs could easily pounce on them while they're down a bit and pick up another series victory. Their extensive rise is inevitable.

Fearless Prediction

-- After getting swept at Wrigley Field in four games, the Mets will be looking forward to their upcoming home set against the Brewers with an extra sense of urgency. While Milwaukee has improved under interim manager Craig Counsell after slumping out of the gate, this series should be more about New York getting back on track. Even in defeat, they still received some excellent starting pitching in their get-together with the Cubs, an important staple of their early-season success, and also witnessed an encouraging debut from rookie Noah Syndergaard this past Tuesday. This could be a crucial and telling performance for them coming up, as they try to fend off surging Washington for the NL East lead. I think they’ll take care of business here, with hopes of revving up another run.

[StarDust Bum]

Indians, Rangers square off

May 15, 2015


CLEVELAND INDIANS (12-21) at TEXAS RANGERS (15-20)

First pitch: Friday, 8:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line: Texas -125, Cleveland +115, Total: 9

Two struggling American League teams, the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers, begin a three-game series when they meet in Arlington on Friday night.

The Indians’ 2015 struggles continue as they come into this game with three straight series losses; the most recent being against the St. Louis Cardinals to kick off the week. They’ve now lost six of their past nine contests, allowing 40 runs in the defeats (6.7 runs per game) as the offense put up a mere six runs in the three games against the Cardinals.

In the rubber-match on Thursday, they held a one-run lead until the eighth inning when 3B Matt Carpenter hit a two-run homer that put St. Louis in the driver’s seat for good. Cleveland was 0-for-7 with RISP in the disappointing loss as OF Michael Brantley (.330) continued to hit and now has a hit in 12 of his last 13 games; hitting his third homer of the month on Thursday.

Texas may not have started out the season too great, but they have found a rhythm lately, grabbing victories in eight of their past 13 games and recently split a tough series at home against the defending AL Champion Kansas City Royals. They scored 22 runs in the four contests (5.5 runs per game) but failed to win the series on Thursday after a 6-3 loss.

The pitchers for the Rangers allowed 14 hits in the contest while the offense couldn’t muster up much of anything with a 2-for-9 mark with RISP despite striking out a mere three times. DH Prince Fielder (.348) has been hitting everything thrown his way and carries a four-game hitting streak into this matchup in which he is 7-for-15 (.467) with two HRs and six RBI.

A couple of veterans will be getting the start in this contest as LHP Bruce Chen (0-1, 13.50 ERA) gets the call for the Indians and will attempt to outpitch LHP Wandy Rodriguez (1-1, 2.70 ERA) of the host team. The road has not been all that kind to Cleveland as it is 6-9 outside of its stadium while Texas is a meager 5-11 at home. When these two groups have met over the previous two seasons, the Indians have made mince meat of the Rangers, going 11-2 overall with both of the losses coming on the road (5-2).

The last series between them was in Cleveland and they swept while outscoring Texas 18-5. Trends show that Texas is a putrid 15-39 (.278) at home when the total is nine to 9.5 over the past two seasons as the Indians have gone a poor 88-100 (.468) when the money line is +125 to -125 in the last three years.

The injury report has C Yan Gomes (Knee) still out for Cleveland as OF Leonys Martin (Hand) is listed as questionable for the Rangers.

The Indians are the 11th stop for Chen in his long career as the 37-year-old has tallied just 82 wins in his 1,529.2 innings pitched. He has seen his usage decline quickly over the past four seasons and last year he was only on the mound for 48.1 major league innings; sporting a 7.45 ERA in that time. His first start of 2015 did not go too well when he faced Minnesota last week and over four innings gave up six runs on 10 hits with three strikeouts (1 walk) in a losing effort.

He isn’t much of a strikeout pitcher, failing to mow down more than seven batters per nine innings in each year since 2003, but does possess great control and has had a mark lower than 1.6 BB/9 in each season since 2010. Texas has given him tons of issues in the past and over six career starts he is 2-3 (2-4 team record) with a 7.84 ERA (1.77 WHIP), but has not seen them since 2012 when he allowed six runs in six innings.

He will have a tough time once again as both DH Prince Fielder (7-for-22, 2 HR, 6 RBI) and 3B Adrian Beltre (9-for-30, 3 HR, 5 RBI) have dominated him in the past. The one player that he has had success against is SS Elvis Andrus, who is hitless in seven at-bats against the lefty.

The bullpen for Cleveland has been mediocre, going 1-4 with a 3.69 ERA (1.46 WHIP) and are 5-for-8 in save opportunities. Cody Allen (8.25 ERA, 5 saves) has struggled in his time on the mound, giving up 12 runs (11 ER) in his 12 frames while having issues with control (9 BB).

At one point, Rodriguez was a stud in the majors and won 57 games between 2008 and 2012 while sporting a sub 3.80 ERA each season. Injuries have derailed his career, though, and in the past two years he has a mere 18 starts and did poorly (6.75 ERA) over six of those last year in Pittsburgh. Now at the age of 36, Rodriguez hopes he can give just a little more and has showed promise through four starts this year, striking out 22 batters (8.5 K/9) and going at least six innings in each of his last two outings. In total he pitched 14 frames in those two starts and gave up a mere two runs on five hits while striking out 14 batters (2 walks).

He has actually never faced the Indians over his 252 career starts, but will need to be careful when going against the duo of OF Michael Brantley and 2B Jason Kipnis as they’ve combined for 17 doubles, seven homers and 10 stolen bases on the year. He may be able to handle OF Michael Bourn with ease, though, as he is hitting just .222 so far with two steals.

The relievers for Texas have combined to go 6-5 with a 4.56 ERA (1.38 WHIP) and are a poor 6-for-12 in saves. Neftali Feliz (4.11 ERA, 6 saves) has blown two saves but is perfect in his last four tries while allowing one run on four hits in his past five innings of work.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, May 15

Wall came back, played 37:00 in tough Game 5 loss; Wizards are 3-6 in their last nine games vs Atlanta; ten of last 13 series games went over total. Both benches struggled last game; Wizard subs were 3-21, Atlanta's 7-22, but four Hawk subs were combined +12. Nine of last 12 Wizard games went over total. Korver hasn't done much, but his threat from arc has opened stuff for other guys. Hawks are 2-3 in last five visits here; last three series games were all decided by 5 or less points.

Winning side has been up by 8+ points at half in all five series games, as only one of five games was decided by less than 10 points. Warriors are 41-91 from arc in three series wins, 12-54 in two losses- Tony Allen's absence was a disaster in Game 5-- Warriors had 28 fast break points in 98-78 win. Nine of last 11 series games stayed under the total, including all five in this series. Grizzlies scored 99-101 points in two series wins, 86 or less in their three losses.

2015 playoffs
Chicago vs Cleveland
Chi 99-92, +4.5, U195
Clev 106-91, -5.5, O195.5
Chi 99-96, -3, O194.5
Clev 86-84, -3 U194
Clev 106-101, -5.5, O190.5
Clev 94-73, +2.5, U192.5
Cavaliers win series, 4-2

Washington vs Atlanta
Wash 104-98, +5.5, O197
Atl 106-90, -9, U199
Wash 103-101, +4, O196.5
Atl 106-101, -4.5, O198
Atl 82-81, -7.5, U200.5

Memphis vs Golden State
GSt 101-86, -10.5, U196
Mem 101-86, +10.5, U198.5
Mem 99-89, +4.5, U196.5
GSt 101-84, -3.5, U196
GSt 98-78, -10, U198

LA Clippers vs Houston
LAC 117-101, +7.5, O212
Hst 115-109, -8, O214.5
LAC 124-99, -6, O214.5
LAC 128-95, -6.5 O217.5
Hst 124-103, +3, O219
Hst 119-107, +8.5, O220.5




NBA

Friday, May 15

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. WASHINGTON
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 4-9-1 ATS in its last 14 games
Washington is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games at home

9:30 PM
GOLDEN STATE vs. MEMPHIS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Golden State's last 6 games on the road
Golden State is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Memphis is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Memphis's last 5 games when playing Golden State

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Friday, May 15

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Game of the Day: NBA Friday's playoff matchups
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Atlanta Hawks at Washington Wizards (-2.5, 197)
Hawks lead series 3-2

John Wall and the Washington Wizards have no margin for error as they look to rebound from a demoralizing loss when they face the visiting Atlanta Hawks in Friday’s Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Washington led by 11 points midway through the fourth quarter on Wednesday before collapsing as Atlanta rallied for an 82-81 victory to take a 3-2 series lead.

The Hawks won the contest on Al Horford’s putback with 1.9 seconds left, and it capped a strong game from the standout center. Horford delivered 23 points, 11 rebounds and five blocked shots to become the first player in franchise to history to have 20 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks in a playoff contest. Wall returned to action after missing three games with a broken left wrist and hand, and his presence energized the attack. “I didn’t have any problems with my hand,” Wall told reporters. “I was able to play aggressive and make plays so I was fine.”

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN

LINE HISTORY: The opening spread of Washington -2.5 has not moved. The total opened at 198 and has since dropped to 197.

INJURY REPORT: Hawks - N/A Wizards - G John Wall (Prob-Head)

ABOUT THE HAWKS: Horford has four double-doubles in the series and his stellar effort was capped by the key rebound, for which he slyly worked his way into position and then overpowered Washington’s Nene to get the board and lay it in the basket. It is the type of clutch play the Hawks expect from the three-time All-Star and it leaves Atlanta one win away from claiming the series. “He’s always calm and collect; thoughtful, yet intense,” shooting guard Kyle Korver told reporters. “Obviously on the basketball court, he is a steadying force and he’s a consistent player. This was obviously a big moment for him.”

ABOUT THE WIZARDS: Forward Paul Pierce scored a series-low 11 points, but that didn’t keep him from popping off at the Atlanta bench and reportedly insisting the series was over when he made a 3-pointer to put Washington ahead with 8.3 seconds remaining. Now he’ll be hoping for another trip down south as the Wizards first need to tie the series at home before having a chance to win it. “I think the sting of this game is going to motivate us for Game 6,” Pierce told reporters. “We’re going to go back home with aspirations of winning and making another trip to Atlanta.”

TRENDS:

*Hawks are 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games overall.
*Wizards are 12-3-2 ATS in their last 17 games overall.
*Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Washington.
*Over is 14-3 in Wizards last 17 home games.




Golden State Warriors at Memphis Grizzlies (+5, 193.5)
Warriors lead series 3-2

The Golden State Warriors have a chance to close out the series when they visit the Memphis Grizzlies in Friday’s Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals. Golden State has won the last two games by an average of 18.5 points against the scoring-challenged Grizzlies.

Memphis scored a series-low 78 points in Wednesday’s loss, marking the third time the Warriors have limited the Grizzlies to 86 or fewer points. “I think I said the first couple games, ‘Our defense was good enough but it wasn’t championship defense,’” Golden State coach Steve Kerr told reporters. “I was wrong. This is what it’s going to take.” Memphis hasn’t once reached 100 points in the series and its vaunted defense took a hit as well with swingman Tony Allen sidelined with a hamstring injury. Warriors point guard Stephen Curry made six 3-pointers and registered a personal playoff-best six steals in Game 5 while veteran guard Andre Iguodala had his best outing of the series with 16 points on 7-of-10 shooting.

TV: 9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

LINE HISTORY: The Grizzlies opened as +5 and have remained there. The opening total of 195 has dropped down to 193.5.

INJURY REPORT: Warriors - C Ognjen Kuzmic (Ques-Ankle), F Marreese Speights (Out-Calf) Grizzlies - G Tony Allen (Prob-Hamstring)

ABOUT THE WARRIORS: Golden State knocked down 14 3-pointers in Game 5, and shooting guard Klay Thompson made three of them while scoring a series-best 21 points. Thompson is averaging 17.4 points against Memphis and he struggled early in the series when routinely guarded by Allen. The Warriors are trying to get forward Draymond Green loose but he scored just seven points in Game 5, is 13-of-40 shooting over the past four games and is averaging 11.8 points in the series.

ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES: Memphis has drawn criticism for its impotent offense, with Allen receiving much of the blame, but coach Dave Joerger was quick to point out that Memphis tallied only 78 points without Allen being in the lineup. Allen plans to play in Game 6 as will go as far as the ailing hamstring will allow. “I am doing this for the guys in that locker room,” Allen told reporters. “I’ve been there with them since Day One. I’d rather be in there in that battle. If they say our season is on the line and we need everybody, I’m one of the troops.”

TRENDS:

*Favorite is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
*Warriors are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games following a SU win of more than 10 points.
*Under is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.
*Under is 24-2 in Grizzlies last 26 home games.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Friday, May 15


Allen says he will play for Grizzlies in Game 6

Tony Allen missed the Memphis Grizzlies 98-78 Game 5 loss to the Golden State Warriors, but the guard says he is ready to go for Friday. Allen plans to play in Game 6 despite a hamstring injury according to Marc Spears.

"If they say our season is on the line and we need everybody, I'm one of the troops, I'm riding out," Allen said Wednesday.

The Grizzlies have been outscored by 19 points with Allen on the floor this series and 16 points without him.


Wizards' Wall should be good to go in Game 6

Washington Wizards guard John Wall is expected to play in Game 6 against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night after experiencing no swelling in his injured left hand and wrist.

Wall overcame five non-displaced fractures to produce 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals in the Wizards' 82-81 loss to the Hawks on Wednesday night.

"He'll get checked again later with our doctors," Wizards coach Randy Wittman said. "Just to make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. After the game, everything looked good in terms of no swelling. That was a good sign. Right now, I am anticipating that he will be able to play."

Wall showed no apparent effects of the injury suffered 10 days ago with his performance against the Hawks. His block on a late-game drive by Atlanta guard Dennis Schroder nearly gave the Wizards a victory, but Hawks forward Al Horford scored on a putback to give Atlanta a 3-2 series lead.

"It was incredible," Wittman said.


Cavs' Irving exits with possible leg injury

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving left Thursday night's game against the Chicago Bulls because of an apparent leg injury.

Irving hobbled badly toward the bench after stepping on the foot of teammate Tristan Thompson with 9:47 remaining in the second quarter. Irving needed to be helped off the court as he headed to the locker room.

ESPN's Lisa Salters reported that Irving's left knee was being re-wrapped and that he was likely to return to the game.

The score was tied at 35 when Irving exited.

Irving has battled nagging foot and knee injuries throughout the series. Coach David Blatt revealed last week that Irving initially injured his foot in Cleveland's first-round series against the Boston Celtics.

Cleveland held a 3-2 lead against Chicago entering Thursday's Game 6 in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference semifinal playoff series.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Friday, May 15


Atlanta Hawks @ Washington Wizards

Game 745-746
May 15, 2015 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta Hawks
121.956
Washington Wizard
126.444
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington Wizard
by 4 1/2
193
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington Wizard
by 2 1/2
197 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington Wizard
(-2 1/2); Under

Golden State Warriors @ Memphis Grizzlies

Game 747-748
May 15, 2015 @ 9:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Golden State Warr
129.852
Memphis Grizzlies
122.569
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Golden State Warr
by 7 1/2
190
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Golden State Warr
by 5
194
Dunkel Pick:
Golden State Warr
(-5); Under




NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, May 15

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ATLANTA (67 - 26) at WASHINGTON (52 - 39) - 5/15/2015, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 14-32 ATS (-21.2 Units) in road games in all playoff games since 1996.
ATLANTA is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in the second round of the playoffs since 1996.
ATLANTA is 53-37 ATS (+12.3 Units) in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) on Friday nights this season.
ATLANTA is 27-13 ATS (+12.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
WASHINGTON is 342-412 ATS (-111.2 Units) in home games since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 130-173 ATS (-60.3 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 158-202 ATS (-64.2 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 52-79 ATS (-34.9 Units) in home games after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 9-6 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 10-7 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
13 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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GOLDEN STATE (74 - 17) at MEMPHIS (61 - 31) - 5/15/2015, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GOLDEN STATE is 66-97 ATS (-40.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
MEMPHIS is 32-21 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 50-37 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all games this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 46-31 ATS (+11.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 30-17 ATS (+11.3 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 9-6 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 8-7 straight up against GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
10 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[StarDust Bum]

Friday's Tip Sheet

May 14, 2015

Hawks at Wizards (-2 ½, 197) – 7:00 PM EST – ESPN
Game 6 – Atlanta leads 3-2

The Hawks and Wizards went back and forth in the final few minutes of Wednesday’s Game 5 at Philips Arena but Atlanta holds the upper-hand in this series with a trip to the Verizon Center for Friday’s Game 6. The top-seeded Hawks overcame a late Paul Pierce three-pointer with eight seconds remaining in regulation as Al Horford’s layup gave Atlanta an 82-81 victory to move one win away from their first conference finals appearance since moving to Georgia in 1968.

Following three straight games topping the 100-point mark, the Hawks were limited to their third-lowest point total of the season in Game 5. Horford paced Atlanta with 23 points and 11 rebounds, but Kyle Korver’s struggles from the floor continued with a 1-of-5 shooting performance from three-point range. The Hawks were limited to 41% shooting, but held Washington to 37% shooting from the field, while the Wizards knocked down just 4-of-17 three-pointers.

John Wall returned to the lineup after missing three games with a fractured left wrist, as the Wizards’ point guard scored 15 points and dished out seven assists. Washington improved to 7-2 ATS in the playoffs by covering as seven-point underdogs, as Randy Wittman’s squad owns a remarkable 11-2 ATS record since last season as a ‘dog in the playoffs. However, the Wizards have compiled a 3-4 ATS mark as a favorite in the postseason since 2014, while laying points for the first time in this series in Game 6.

Washington has performed well as a home favorite since February 7, winning 13 of their last 14 when placed in the role, while going 8-4-2 ATS. The Hawks have yet to win three straight games in the playoffs, while putting together a 2-5 ATS ledger as a road underdog in the playoffs since 2013 (first time in ‘dog role this postseason).

VI NBA analyst Chris David is buying the ‘over’ again on Friday and he’s expecting a big rebound for both offensive units.

He explained, “I was very surprised to see the Hawks held in the eighties on Wednesday but when you shoot 22 percent from 3-point land and only get to the free throw line 11 times, you’re going to see that type of production. I’m even more surprised the oddsmakers adjusted the total down to 197 for Game 6 especially with Game 5 closing at 202. The only explanation I could see for the move is that they’re expecting the public to look for a repeat of the last game.”

“For those of you who missed it, both teams shot a combined 39 percent from the field, they combined for 9 triples and the most important factor, they only had 27 combined trips to the free throw line. I question some of Mike Budenholzer’s tactics in this series, especially with Dennis Schroder running the point late in the game, but I can’t ignore his offensive success against the Wizards. Toss out the 82-point effort in Game 5 and the Hawks have averaged 103 PPG in 12 other games since Bud has taken over in Atlanta. Coincidentally, the ‘over’ has gone 10-2 in those contests. Don’t be surprised to see late steam on the ‘over’ Friday and some heavy buy orders on the Hawks team total ‘over’ of 97 ½.”

Atlanta opened the series as -230 favorites to eliminate Washington according to Sportsbook.ag, as the Hawks are currently -700 (Bet $700 to win $100) to advance. If you have faith in the Wizards to win the next two games, Sportsbook.ag has Washington listed at +500 (Bet $100 to win $500) to advance to the Eastern Conference finals.

Warriors (-5) at Grizzlies – 9:30 PM EST – ESPN
Game 6 – Golden State leads 3-2

Following a rout in the series opener, Golden State suddenly dropped consecutive games to Memphis to fall into a 2-1 hole with Game 4 at FedEx Forum. The Warriors cruised to a 101-84 rout of the Grizzlies to even the series at 2-2 and took that momentum back home for Wednesday’s Game 5 whipping of Memphis, 98-78 to cash as 10-point favorites.

The Grizzlies jumped out to a 21-10 advantage with less than five minutes remaining in the opening quarter of Game 5, but the Warriors outscored Memphis, 16-4 to close the period and take the lead for good. Golden State limited Memphis to just 37 second half points as the Grizzlies shot below 40% from the floor for the second straight game. The Warriors connected on 14 three-pointers, including six from MVP Stephen Curry, who finished with 18 points. Neither team shot many free throws as each club converted 8-of-10 from the charity stripe.

The ‘under’ has cashed in all five games of this series, while Steve Kerr’s club has compiled a 7-1-1 mark to the ‘under’ in the postseason. Since late March, the Warriors own an 8-2 record to the ‘under’ in their last 10 road games, including a 3-1 mark in the playoffs away from Oracle Arena. In the last two losses for Memphis, Marc Gasol has made just 15-of-41 shots from the floor, while point guard Mike Conley is 9-of-25.

Tony Allen is expected to return to the lineup for Memphis in Game 6 after missing Wednesday’s loss with a hamstring strain. Allen’s offense hasn’t been much of a factor in this series (21 combined points in Game’s 2, 3, and 4), but his defense helped Memphis limit Golden State to 6-of-26 shooting from long range in the two Grizzlies’ victories. Memphis has split six contests as an underdog this postseason both SU and ATS, while looking to avoid its third losing streak of at least three games this season.

David believes that we’re starting to figure out who the better defensive team is in this series. David said, “It’s understood that Memphis is an offensive juggernaut but when you’re held to less than 86 points three times in the same series, it’s more than issues with shooting. Golden State is a very sound defensive club and it’s done a great job of keeping Memphis off the free throw line. During the season, Memphis averaged close to 23 free throw attempts per game and that average is down to 18 in this series, which includes only 10 trips in Game 5. Unless the Grizzlies get more aggressive, I don’t see this being close and would expect Golden State to close out this series on the road.”

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NBA Playoffs - Game 7 Facts

May 15, 2015

Game 7 Quick Facts

-- The NBA has had 120 Game 7’s in playoff history

-- The home team is 96-24 (79%) in those games

-- This will be the second Game 7 of the 2015 NBA Playoffs.

-- The 2014 postseason featured five Game 7's. The home team went 4-1 in those games and the lone visitor to win was Brooklyn, who defeated Toronto 104-103 in overtime.

-- The 'over' has cashed in five of the last six Game 7's in the NBA Playoffs.

-- Houston has gone 5-4 in Game 7's, the last instance coming in the 2009 NBA Playoffs.

-- Since the Clippers moved to Los Angeles, the team is 3-1 in Game 7's.

-- Doc Rivers has coached in 11 Game 7's and owns a 6-5 career record (Orlando 0-1, Boston 4-4, Los Angeles 2-0)

Houston Game 7 History
1981 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 105 at San Antonio 100

1993 Western Conference Semifinals
Seattle 103 vs. Houston 100

1994 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 104 vs. Phoenix 94

1994 NBA Finals
Houston 90 vs. New York 84

1995 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 115 at Phoenix 114

1997 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 96 vs. Seattle 91

2005 Western First Round
Dallas 116 vs. Houston 76

2007 Western First Round
Utah 103 at Houston 99

2009 Western Conference Semifinals
Los Angeles Lakers 89 vs. Houston 70


L.A. Clippers Game 7 History

2006 Western Conference Semifinals
Phoenix Suns 127 vs. L.A. Clippers 107

2012 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 82 at Memphis 72

2014 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 126 vs. Golden State 121

2015 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 111 vs. San Antonio 109

ALL-TIME GAME 7 ROAD WINNERS

Year Road Team Home Team Round

2014 Brooklyn 104 Toronto 103 First round

2013 Chicago 99 Brooklyn 93 First round

2012 L.A. Clippers 82 Memphis 72 First round

2008 Orlando 101 Boston 82 Conference semifinals

2007 San Antonio 91 New Orleans 82 Conference semifinals

2007 Utah 103 Houston 99 First round

2006 *Dallas 119 San Antonio 111 Conference semifinals

2005 Detroit 88 Miami 82 Conference finals

2005 Indiana 97 Boston 70 First round

2002 *L.A. Lakers 112 Sacramento 106 Conference finals

2000 New York 83 Miami 82 Conference semifinals

1995 Indiana 97 New York 95 Conference semifinals

1995 Houston 115 Phoenix 114 Conference semifinals

1982 Philadelphia 120 Boston 106 Conference finals

1981 Kansas City 95 Phoenix 88 Conference semifinals

1981 Houston 105 San Antonio 100 Conference semifinals

1978 Washington 105 Seattle 99 NBA Finals

1976 Phoenix 94 Golden State 86 Conference finals

1974 Boston 102 Milwaukee 87 NBA Finals

1973 New York 94 Boston 78 Conference finals

1971 Baltimore 93 New York 91 Conference finals

1969 Boston 108 L.A. Lakers 106 NBA Finals

1968 Boston 100 Philadelphia 96 Division finals

1948 Philadelphia 85 St Louis 46 Semifinals

(*) Asterisk denotes overtime

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College star Kaminsky hears doubts

May 15, 2015

CHICAGO (AP) - Frank Kaminsky measured as the tallest player at the NBA Draft Combine, and he felt like a big target already.

The do-it-all player of the year in college keeps hearing what he can't do as a pro. He's not strong enough, quick enough, or even young enough next to the flashier kids in the class.

Rather than ignore the criticisms, Kaminsky wants to be aware of them, asking teams that are interviewing him where he needs to get better.

''Everyone's been a little bit different but they all have the same theme. So that just goes to show that I still have a lot to work on,'' he said Thursday. ''Nobody's perfect coming into the draft. There's been a lot of people in draft history who have come in with a lot of question marks and been able to prove people wrong, so I want to be one of those people.''

He already answered plenty of questions during his four years at Wisconsin, which ended with a run to the national championship game. But all that extra TV time can end up working against a player like Kaminsky, who has been seen so much by so many that there's simply more to nitpick.

''With me, I'm a four-year college player, so all my journey and all my film and everything I can do is pretty much out there, so they've probably seen me play a lot of times,'' Kaminsky said. ''Some of the other guys who are one-and-done type players, they might not have as much film on them.''

Kaminsky met with some teams and took his measurements at the combine, with a height of 7-feet-.75 inches in sneakers. Like most top players, he chose not to play in the games at the recommendation of his agent.

''It's hard to top being named national player of the year, so I don't know how much more I could have done,'' he said.

So the South Side of Chicago product spent Thursday watching and supporting Badgers teammate Sam Dekker, who understands the fuss about Kaminsky but doesn't expect it to last.

''Haters, man. There's haters. When you're good enough and put yourself in the position and stuff he did, people are going to try to knock you down and doubt you,'' Dekker said.

''But the best players ever are going to go through that stuff and I see Frank is a really, really good player. He won those awards for a reason and he's going to add even more to his game and I see him doing well. Regardless of where he goes, he's going to represent well and have a very long and very good career.''

Kaminsky averaged 18.8 points and 8.2 rebounds as a senior, ending his career with 21 points and 12 boards in a loss to Duke in the national championship game. He improved every season during his 144-game college career - and like those veteran San Antonio Spurs he'll soon be playing against, he'd rather be known for his experience than his age.

''I've said it before, I'm 22 years old and I get treated like I'm 65 going into the NBA,'' Kaminsky said. ''So it's not necessarily that I'm young or old, it's I just don't think age plays a big deal as some of the people think it does.''

Nor does he believe his defense is as bad as some say, though acknowledges it needs work.

''I don't think I have as many deficiencies on defense as have been so kindly brought up by so many different people,'' he said, ''but I feel like I can fit in and play with just about any team.''

He expects to be a lottery pick and envisions his future as a power forward, rather than a center. And he believes the NBA's shorter shot clock and better floor spacing could help show off his array of skills.

''I know what I can do and I know what I'm going to improve on and I know what I want to work on to get better at the next level,'' Kaminsky said. ''So I'm 22 years old and I hope to have a long career and a lot of things I can improve on, so we'll see how it goes.''

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NHL conference finals schedules

NHL conference finals schedule, as announced by the league Wednesday night. All times are Eastern. Games will air on NBC and NBCSN in the United States, on CBC and TVA Sports in Canada.

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. New York Rangers

Game 1, Saturday, May 16, Tampa Bay at New York Rangers, 1 p.m., NBC, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 2, Monday, May 18, Tampa Bay at New York Rangers, 1 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 3, Wednesday, May 20, New York Rangers at Tampa Bay, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 4, Friday, May 22, New York Rangers at Tampa Bay, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 5*, Sunday, May 24, Tampa Bay at New York Rangers, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 6*, Tuesday, May 26, New York Rangers at Tampa Bay, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 7*, Friday, May 29, Tampa Bay at New York Rangers, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports


WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Anaheim Ducks

Game 1, Sunday, May 17, Chicago at Anaheim, 3 p.m., NBC, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 2, Tuesday, May 19, Chicago at Anaheim, 9 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 3, Thursday, May 21, Anaheim at Chicago, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 4, Saturday, May 23, Anaheim at Chicago, 8 p.m., NBC, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 5*, Monday, May 25, Chicago at Anaheim, 9 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 6*, Wednesday, May 27, Anaheim at Chicago, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

Game 7*, Saturday, May 30, Chicago at Anaheim, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, TVA Sports

*-if necessary

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MLB
Short Sheet

Friday, May 15

Pittsburgh at Chicago Cubs, 2:20 ET
Pittsburgh: 21-9 SU when playing on Friday
Chicago Cubs: 3-17 SU after having won 4 of their last 5 games

Arizona at Philadelphia, 7:05 ET
Arizona: 26-11 OVER after 3 straight games where they committed no errors
Philadelphia: 10-21 SU in home games after having won 2 of their last 3 games

Milwaukee at NY Mets, 7:10 ET
Milwaukee: 5-17 SU in night games
NY Mets: 12-0 SU as a home favorite of -110 or higher

San Francisco at Cincinnati, 7:10 ET
San Francisco: BUMGARNER is 12-1 SU on the road when the total is 7 to 8.5
Cincinnati: 15-26 SU after 3 or more consecutive wins

Atlanta at Miami, 7:10 ET
Atlanta: 10-20 SU in road games after 6 or more consecutive road games
Miami: 44-39 SU after a win by 2 runs or less

Colorado at LA Dodgers, 10:10 ET
Colorado: 4-36 SU as an underdog of +150 or more
LA Dodgers: 21-4 SU after 2 or more consecutive losses

Washington at San Diego, 10:10 ET
Washington: 228-302 SU on the road when the money line is +125 to -125
San Diego: 13-3 SU in home games after a win by 4 runs or more

LA Angels at Baltimore, 7:05 ET
LA Angels: 1-7 SU after allowing 4 runs or less 3 straight games
Baltimore: 42-24 SU against AL West opponents

Cleveland at Texas, 8:05 ET
Cleveland: 44-25 SU against AL West opponents
Texas: 15-40 SU at home when the total is 9 to 9.5

Toronto at Houston, 8:10 ET
Toronto: 20-37 SU when playing on Friday
Houston: KEUCHEL is 23-13 SU in all games

NY Yankees at Kansas City, 8:10 ET
NY Yankees: 37-22 SU after scoring 2 runs or less
Kansas City: 2-9 SU after having won 4 or 5 of their last 6 games

Tampa Bay at Minnesota, 8:10 ET
Tampa Bay: ODORIZZI is 0-6 SU against AL Central opponents
Minnesota: HUGHES is 7-0 SU in May games

Chicago White Sox at Oakland, 10:05 ET
Chicago White Sox: 364-366 SU in road games
Oakland: 1-11 SU after allowing 2 runs or less

Boston at Seattle, 10:10 ET
Boston: BUCHHOLZ is 18-9 SU in road games
Seattle: 3-12 SU when the money line is +125 to -125

Detroit at St Louis, 8:15 ET
Detroit: GREENE is 8-1 SU in road games
St Louis: 26-35 SU after allowing 4 runs or less 4 straight games

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Diamond Trends - Friday

May 15, 2015


SU TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Yankees are 0-10 since September 21, 2009 within 20 cents of pickem after a 5+ run loss and it is the first game of a series for a net profit of $1000 when playing against.

PITCHER TREND OF THE DAY:

-- When Wei Yin Chen starts the Orioles are 0-11 OU since July 19, 2013 with a total over seven after he had a WHIP of less than one his last start for a net profit of $1100 when playing the under.

MLB BIBLE ACTIVE TREND:

-- The Astros are 0-9 (+$900) since September 10, 2010 after a win where they trailed by more than a run after five innings and scored less than seven runs.

CHOICE TREND:

-- The Mariners are 0-11 OU since April 22, 2014 at home when they are off a loss in which they had at least three times as many hits as runs and it is not the last game of a series for a net profit of $1105 when playing the under.

ACTIVE TRENDS:

-- When Clayton Kershaw starts the Dodgers are 17-1 since September 02, 2013 as a 200+ favorite for a net profit of $1500.

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Cheat Sheet - Conference Finals

May 15, 2015


Anaheim Ducks vs. Chicago Blackhawks
Series Price: Blackhawks -115, Ducks -105

Team Trends

Ducks: 5-0 SU Last 5 Home Games
Ducks: 6-3 O/U Last 9 Games

Blackhawks: 7-2-1 O/U Last 10 Games
Blackhawks: 5-0 SU Last 5 Home Games
Blackhawks: 5 Game Winning Streak Overall
Blackhawks: 4-1 SU Last 5 vs Anaheim

Head-to-Head Trends

-- Corey Crawford (Blackhawks): 9-4-1 Record vs Ducks
-- Road Team has won Last 4 Meetings
-- Under is 8-2 Last 10 Meetings

Exact Games Odds - 7 Game Series (2-2-1-1-1)
4 Games Blackhawks Win 10/1
5 Games Blackhawks Win 5/1
6 Games Blackhawks Win 4/1
7 Games Blackhawks Win 9/2

4 Games Ducks Win 10/1
5 Games Ducks Win 9/2
6 Games Ducks Win 5/1
7 Games Ducks Win 7/2

New York Rangers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Series Price: Rangers -150, Lightning +130

Team Trends

Lightning: 4-1 SU Last 5 Meetings
Lightning: 4-2 SU Last 6 Road Games
Lightning: 7/16 (43.7%) on the Power-Play Last 5 Games

Rangers: 1-10 ATS & 2-9-1 O/U This Postseason
Rangers: 5-2 SU Last 7 Home Games

Head-to-Head Trends

-- Underdog is 5-1 SU Last 6 Meetings
-- Over is 4-1-1 Last 6 Meetings

Exact Games Odds - 7 Game Series (2-2-1-1-1)

4 Games Lightning Win 10/1
5 Games Lightning Win 13/2
6 Games Lightning Win 7/2
7 Games Lightning Win 4/1

4 Games Rangers Win 12/1
5 Games Rangers Win 11/2
6 Games Rangers Win 9/2
7 Games Rangers Win 7/2

Odds to win Stanley Cup

New York Rangers 9/5
Chicago Blackhawks 9/4
Anaheim Ducks 5/2
Tampa Bay Lightning 5/1

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Playoff scoring at 3-year low in NHL

May 15, 2015

Scoring is down in the NHL playoffs.

More than half the games through the first two rounds were decided by one goal, and 15 went to overtime. More than one in every four games were decided by a score of 2-1 and the 4.88 goals per game is the lowest in an NHL postseason since 2012 (4.84).

Credit the big, talented goaltenders, better coaching and shot-blocking and the mentality of the players once they get to this stage of the season.

Among the four teams left, only the Chicago Blackhawks have allowed more than two goals a game. Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers, Anaheim's Frederik Andersen and Tampa Bay's Ben Bishop all have a 2.00 goals-against average or below.