Cnotes 2019-2020 nba trends, news, best bets and opinions thru the playoffs !

[Udog]

WHAT ARE THE NEW NBA ALL-STAR GAME RULES?

The first three quarters will begin with the score of 0-0 and runs the standard NBA 12 minutes with each team playing for a Chicago-based charity. The winner of each quarter will receive $100,000 to donate to their respective charity.

The clock will be turned off for the fourth quarter with the teams playing to a final target score. The final target score will be set by taking the leading team’s cumulative score through the first three quarters and adding 24 points. So, for example, if Team LeBron is leading Team Giannis 100-95 after three quarters the target score would be 124. Meaning Team LeBron would need to score 24 points before Team Giannis scores 29 points (and vice versa) to win.

The 24 points target score is a tribute to the late Kobe Bryant.

All of this will make wagering on this game very difficult for bettors and oddsmakers alike. (Checkout the article below from our Patrick Everson on how sportbooks plan on handling the situation), but we’re giving it our best shot and give our best picks and predictions for the NBA All-Star Game.


QUICK HITTER

Team Giannis will roll out a starting lineup of himself, Joel Embiid, Pascal Siakam, Kemba Walker and Trae Young. While LeBron will open the game alongside teammate Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, Luka Doncic, and James Harden. (Put it this way, LeBron has three more all-star appearances than all of the Team Giannis starters). Now, that may seem like a mismatch on paper, but that is just the way Giannis likes it.

Giannis may have drafted the “all-fun” team, not to mention an all-time “smiles” team. But they are also full of young competitors. And that’s why we like them early in this game. They have two guys in Siakam and Young, making their first All-Star Game appearance, who will be motivated to show they belong.

Team Giannis also features three starters from last year’s squad which got out to a 53-37 lead after one quarter in last year’s game. There’s just too much value with Team Giannis to take the first mini-game.

Pick: Team Giannis 1st Quarter Moneyline (+125)


TOTAL BET

Oddsmakers agreed that the new format would make for a more competitive NBA All-Star game, opening the total at 285. That’s lowest it’s been in the last five years. That said it was quickly bet up to 300.5 and currently sits at 303.5. And even at the current number only one of the last five All-Star games would have fallen Under that number.

Obviously, the final quarter being untimed has an affect on this number, because hypothetically, as few as 24 points could be scored in the fourth quarter. But that is traditionally the quarter where players turn up the intensity anyways. The average combined score over the last five All-Star games has been 339.8. Even with the new rules we’re betting this goes Over.

Pick: Over 303.5


SIDE BET

The best part about the final target score is that no matter what, we get a game winning shot. So, that’s kind of cool. But who will cover?

As mentioned before, Team Giannis got off to a good start last year, taking a 95-82 lead into halftime before Team LeBron stormed back in the second half on their way to a 178-164 victory. James improved to 2-0 SU/ATS and we can see more of the same happening this time around. Just like last year, it appears LeBron’s fantasy draft skills are better than Giannis’.

Giannis once again filled his roster with first-time All Stars in the hope that they will “play harder.” It also seems like he has too many centers. And while LeBron has some first year all-stars as well, his seem more dynamic like Luka Doncic and Jayson Tatum. He also seems to have all the player-makers. Doncic, Kawhi, Paul, Jokic, himself. It could be a lot of fun watching Team LeBron move the ball around. And in the end their depth will be the difference.

Pick: Team LeBron -6

[Udog]

Thursday’s 6-pack
Odds for this week’s WGC – Mexico Championship
6-1— Rory McIlroy
8-1— Dustin Johnson
10-1— Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas
20-1— Fleetwood, Matsuyama, Schauffele, Scott, Simpson
30-1— Bryson DeChambeau
40-1— Casey, Garcia, Kuchar, Morikawa, Oosthuizen, Reed, Woodland


Tweet of the Day:
“The way the media talk so down on us (Cincinnati Bengals) is really absurd. The disrespect is crazy but it’s life all it consist of is proven people wrong.”
Bengals’ WR Tyler Boyd

Thursday’s quiz
Which current ACC basketball coach was coach at George Mason when they made the Final Four in 2006?

Wednesday’s quiz
Excalibur Casino in Las Vegas casino looks like a castle on the outside.

Tuesday’s quiz
Matt Doherty was basketball coach at North Carolina before they hired Roy Williams.

************************************************** ***************************

Thursday’s List of 13: Doing some thinking out loud……

13) NC State 88, Duke 66:
— Sunday, Wolfpack lost to a sub-par Boston College team
— This game, they ran the Blue Devils off the floor.
— Saturday, they host Florida State, another top 25 team.

To win the national title, you have to win six games in a row; not sure how many teams there are in this year of incredibly erratic play that can play well six games in a row.

12) Seton Hall 74, Butler 72— Pirates scored on a lob pass on an out-of-bounds under play with 0:00.6 left to win this game, after they blew a 5-point lead with 0:35 left. Butler lost for fourth time in last six games, despite shooting 58.8% inside arc.

11) Sounds like the NFL is expanding the playoffs to 14 teams next year, so the #1 seeds in each conference will be the only teams to get a first-round bye.

10) Mississippi State 79, South Carolina 76— Bulldogs won eight of last 11 games, are 8-5 in SEC as they try to get off the NCAA bubble.

Miss State coach Ben Howland got UCLA to the Final Four three years in a row, from 2006-08, never won the national title, and wound up getting fired after a 25-10, 13-5 season in 2013. He’s a really good coach; Starkville ain’t the easiest place to win. Would be impressive if Miss State makes it to the NCAAs this year, with experience team #287.

9) East Tennessee State 75, Furman 66— Buccaneers improve to 12-3 in SoCon, lead Furman and NC-Greensboro by game. In five years under Steve Forbes, ETSU is 124-47, 68-19 in conference games. How the hell has some big $$$$ team not hired this guy?

8) Stephen F Austin could be a very nervous team on Selection Sunday, unless they win the Southland Conference tournament. Lumberjacks are 23-3, have run away with the regular season title in Southland, and they won 85-83 in OT at Duke Nov 26. Big win.

But SF Austin is ranked #110 on KenPom, nowhere near the bubble; they lost by 12 at Rutgers, by 10 at Alabama, two losses that look better now than they did then- they also lost a league game in Corpus Christi, a bad loss.

If the Lumberjacks were to get upset in the Southland tourney, I’d still much rather see them in the NCAAs than the 10th or 11th place team in the Big 14. Don’t think it’ll happen, though.

7) Upsets:
— Central Florida (+11) 89, Cincinnati 87, 2OT
— Texas A&M (+10.5) 74, Alabama 68
— George Washington (+10) 70, Duquesne 67
— Lamar (+8.5) 77, Sam Houston State 65
— Tulane (+8) 80, SMU 72
— VMI (+8) 74, Western Carolina 71
— NC State (+7.5) 88, Duke 66
— Indiana (+6.5) 68, Minnesota 56
— Incarnate Word (+6.5) 65, McNeese State 59

6) Michigan 60, Rutgers 52— Scarlet Knights are much improved at 18-9, 9-7 in conference, but they look like they practice without a basketball. Rutgers is shooting 29.8% on arc (#318), 65.2% on arc (#320). No bueno.

5) Miami 102, Virginia Tech 95, 3OT— Kameron McGusty scored 21 points in 44:00 for Miami, and he didn’t start. Teams combined to make 53 of 60 foul shots. Hurricanes led by 12 early in second half, needed 3 OT’s to break their 6-game road losing streak.

Tech led by 7 with 4:35 left, but lost for sixth time in last seven games.

4) Someone posted a video on Twitter Wednesday; Bogdan Bogdanovic of Sacramento Kings, making 90 foul shots in a row at practice- they actually just showed him missing the 91st foul shot, but you get the idea. The skill level of NBA players is underrated, how hard they work to become as good as they are.

3) Drake 77, Valparaiso 75 OT— Bulldogs were up 18 at the half, survive in OT and improve to 18-10, 8-7 in Missouri Valley. Drake is on its fifth head coach in eight years; they’re 20-13 in MVC in two years under Darian DeVries.

2) ESPN runs a promo for SportsCenter during the NC State-Duke game, what is their big promo? Lebron James? Astros? Drew Brees? The Wilder fight this weekend?

Nope, they hype an interview with Zion Williamson, who would be on the network less if his mother ran ESPN. Enough already with the kid, at least for a while.

1) They called a flagrant foul on a Duke player early in the 2nd half last night; players were under the basket, jockeying for position, nothing major, but the NC State kid got slapped in the face, and they called it a flagrant foul. Rule makers are making basketball a much softer game, and I don’t think it helps the game— too many whistles, too many replay reviews.

[Udog]

Thursday's NBA Betting Tip Sheet
Kevin Rogers

Bucks at Pistons – 7:05 PM EST

MIL: 46-8 SU, 31-23 ATS, 27-26-1 O/U
DET: 19-38 SU, 21-35-1 ATS, 34-23 O/U

Last 10 games:

MIL: 8-2 SU, 6-4 ATS, 5-5 O/U
DET: 2-8 SU, 4-6 ATS, 5-5 O/U

Head-to-Head:

The Bucks have captured 10 consecutive meetings with the Pistons, which included an easy four-game sweep in the opening round of the 2019 playoffs. Milwaukee has cruised past Detroit in two matchups this season, including a 127-103 blowout of the Pistons at Little Caesars Arena as 8 ½-point favorites in early December.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- Since the start of last season, the Bucks are 27-1 in the regular season in the last 28 games off a loss. In this stretch, Milwaukee has covered 22 times.

-- The Pistons are 3-34-1 ATS this season in a loss, but two of the three covers came in the past four games.


Heat at Hawks – 7:05 PM EST

MIA: 35-19 SU, 29-23-2 ATS, 31-22-1 O/U
ATL: 15-41 SU, 25-30-1 ATS, 33-23 O/U

Last 10 games:

MIA: 4-6 SU, 4-6 ATS, 4-6 O/U
ATL: 4-6 SU, 4-5-1 ATS, 7-3 O/U

Head-to-Head:

The Heat have won and covered each of the first three meetings with the Hawks, including a 135-121 overtime triumph as eight-point favorites on December 10. In the other two victories, Miami has limited Atlanta to 97 points each, while the ‘under’ cashed in each of those games.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- Miami has lost seven of its past 10 road games, including losses to Portland, Sacramento, San Antonio, Brooklyn, and New York, all who own losing records.

-- The Hawks have covered six of their last nine home contests in the underdog role, while beating the Clippers, 76ers, and Pacers outright.


Hornets at Bulls – 8:05 PM EST

CHA: 18-36 SU, 26-28 ATS, 27-27 O/U
CHI: 19-36 SU, 24-30-1 ATS, 30-25 O/U

Last 10 games:

CHA: 3-7 SU, 4-6 ATS, 4-6 O/U
CHI: 3-7 SU, 3-7 ATS, 9-1 O/U

Head-to-Head:

The Hornets have taken two of the three meetings this season, while the two teams have split a pair of games decided by one point each. Charlotte has covered in all three games in the underdog role, including the most recent matchup at United Center in mid-December by beating Chicago, 83-73 as seven-point ‘dogs.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- Charlotte owns an incredible 11-3 ATS record against Central division foes this season. The Hornets are 9-0 ATS against Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland.

-- The Bulls closed the first half by cashing eight consecutive ‘overs,’ including each of the last six with a total of less than 220.


Nets at 76ers – 8:05 PM EST

BKN: 25-28 SU, 26-27 ATS, 25-27-1 O/U
PHI: 34-21 SU, 22-29-4 O/U, 26-28-1 O/U

Last 10 games:

BKN: 7-3 SU, 8-2 ATS, 4-6 O/U
PHI: 5-5 SU, 3-7 ATS, 5-5 O/U

Head-to-Head:

The 76ers have grabbed six of the last seven matchups with the Nets, including two of three this season. After Brooklyn knocked off Philadelphia by 20 points at home in December, the Sixers took a pair of meetings in a six-day span in January.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- The Nets ended the first half off consecutive wins over the Pacers and Raptors, but Brooklyn is 0-5 SU and 1-4 ATS in its last five games off back-to-back victories.

-- Philadelphia has compiled a 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS mark at home against division foes this season. The lone ATS defeat came as a 12 ½-point favorite in a five-point win over the Knicks.


Grizzlies at Kings – 10:05 PM EST

MEM: 28-26 SU, 30-23-1 ATS, 27-27 O/U
SAC: 21-33 SU, 26-27-1 ATS, 29-25 O/U

Last 10 games:

MEM: 8-2 SU, 8-2 ATS, 5-5 O/U
SAC: 6-4 SU, 6-4 ATS, 7-3 O/U

Head-to-Head:

The home team has captured each of the first two matchups this season by a combined nine points. Memphis held off Sacramento at FedEx Forum on December 21 as two-point underdogs, 119-115, while the Kings edged the Grizzlies at Golden 1 Center, 128-123 less than two weeks later.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- Since losing at Sacramento on January 2, the Grizzlies have posted an incredible 15-4 SU and 14-5 ATS mark the last 19 games. Memphis is 6-3 SU/ATS on the road in this stretch, which includes a 4-1 SU/ATS ledger against teams with losing records.

-- The Kings lost 10 of 12 home games from December 13 through February 1, but Sacramento has won each of its past three contests at Golden 1 Center. However, this is the first time the Kings will be listed as a home favorite since losing to Orlando on January 13.


Rockets at Warriors – 10:35 PM EST

HOU: 34-20 SU, 26-28 ATS, 23-31 O/U
GS: 12-43 SU, 27-28 ATS, 25-30 O/U

Last 10 games:

HOU: 6-4 SU, 5-5 ATS, 4-6 O/U
GS: 2-8 SU, 5-5 ATS, 6-4 O/U

Head-to-Head:

Both matchups have been won by the home team and each by double-digits. The Rockets knocked off the Warriors as hefty 16-point favorites in early November, 129-112, but Golden State returned the favor on Christmas Day at home in a 116-104 stunner as 11 ½-point underdogs.

Betcha Didn’t Know:

-- Since Christmas, the Rockets are 1-6 ATS in the role of a road favorite, while winning only two of those games straight-up.

-- The Warriors are 1-9 in their last 10 games at Chase Center with six of those defeats coming by double-digits.

[Udog]

NBA's Top OVER Referees at the All-Star Break (min. 10 games):

1. John Goble 30-10
2. Tre Maddox 28-12
3. Brett Nansel 18-8
t4. Eric Dalen 24-12
t4. Jenna Schroeder 16-8
6. Ray Acosta 24-13
7. Haywoode Workman 7-4
8. Dedric Taylor 25-16


NBA's Top UNDER Referees at All-Star Break (min. 10 games):

1. Karl Lane 29-14
2. Derek Richardson 22-11
3. Eric Lewis 25-14
4. Phenizee Ransom 17-10
5. Leon Wood 19-12
6. Jonathan Sterling 20-13
t7. Z. Zarba, S. Twardoski, K. Mauer tied at 21-16

[Udog]

501MILWAUKEE -502 DETROIT
MILWAUKEE is 14-4 ATS (9.6 Units) in road games versus poor pressure defensive teams - forcing <=14 turnovers/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

505CHARLOTTE -506 CHICAGO
CHICAGO is 10-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) in home games after a combined score of 225 points or more in the last 3 seasons.

507BROOKLYN -508 PHILADELPHIA
PHILADELPHIA is 10-2 ATS (7.8 Units) in home games versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 110+ points/game in the current season.

509MEMPHIS -510 SACRAMENTO
SACRAMENTO is 76-57 ATS (13.3 Units) versus poor foul drawing teams - attempting <=24 free throws/game in the last 3 seasons.

[Udog]

NBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, February 20

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MILWAUKEE (46 - 8) at DETROIT (19 - 38) - 2/20/2020, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 88-60 ATS (+22.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 28-18 ATS (+8.2 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
MILWAUKEE is 78-54 ATS (+18.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 43-28 ATS (+12.2 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 37-21 ATS (+13.9 Units) in a road game where the total is greater than or equal to 220 over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 29-14 ATS (+13.6 Units) in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 24-7 ATS (+16.3 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 28-15 ATS (+11.5 Units) after allowing 115 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 21-12 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MILWAUKEE is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 69-46 ATS (+18.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 67-46 ATS (+16.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 21-34 ATS (-16.4 Units) in all games this season.
DETROIT is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
DETROIT is 32-48 ATS (-20.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 23-35 ATS (-15.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 14-28 ATS (-16.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
DETROIT is 41-59 ATS (-23.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 9-3 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
MILWAUKEE is 12-2 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MIAMI (35 - 19) at ATLANTA (15 - 41) - 2/20/2020, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 160-123 ATS (+24.7 Units) in home games after a loss by 10 points or more since 1996.
MIAMI is 156-120 ATS (+24.0 Units) in February games since 1996.
MIAMI is 239-194 ATS (+25.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
ATLANTA is 12-24 ATS (-14.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 6-4 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 7-4 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHARLOTTE (18 - 36) at CHICAGO (19 - 36) - 2/20/2020, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 184-146 ATS (+23.4 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1996.
CHARLOTTE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) against Central division opponents this season.
CHICAGO is 59-75 ATS (-23.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 25-42 ATS (-21.2 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 39-57 ATS (-23.7 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) in home games after allowing 115 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 44-58 ATS (-19.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 4-18 ATS (-15.8 Units) in home games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHARLOTTE is 6-4 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-5 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
8 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BROOKLYN (25 - 28) at PHILADELPHIA (34 - 21) - 2/20/2020, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 70-47 ATS (+18.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 47-29 ATS (+15.1 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 38-20 ATS (+16.0 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
BROOKLYN is 15-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1996.
BROOKLYN is 37-19 ATS (+16.1 Units) in road games after a division game since 1996.
BROOKLYN is 31-17 ATS (+12.3 Units) in road games revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
BROOKLYN is 47-30 ATS (+14.0 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
BROOKLYN is 58-43 ATS (+10.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
BROOKLYN is 23-11 ATS (+10.9 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 9-7 against the spread versus BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 11-5 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
9 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEMPHIS (28 - 26) at SACRAMENTO (21 - 33) - 2/20/2020, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 27-17 ATS (+8.3 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
MEMPHIS is 50-37 ATS (+9.3 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 27-13 ATS (+12.7 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HOUSTON (34 - 20) at GOLDEN STATE (12 - 43) - 2/20/2020, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 133-98 ATS (+25.2 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 70-86 ATS (-24.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 30-46 ATS (-20.6 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 16-30 ATS (-17.0 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 17-31 ATS (-17.1 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 57-74 ATS (-24.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) in home games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 25-38 ATS (-16.8 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 13-9 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 11-11 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
13 of 22 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NBA
Dunkel

Thursday, February 20


Milwaukee @ Detroit

Game 501-502
February 20, 2020 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
125.884
Detroit
108.782
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee
by 17
228
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Milwaukee
by 13
225 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee
(-13); Over

Miami @ Atlanta

Game 503-504
February 20, 2020 @ 7:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Miami
117.776
Atlanta
108.199
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 9 1/2
244
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
by 6
230 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(-6); Over

Brooklyn @ Philadelphia

Game 507-508
February 20, 2020 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Brooklyn
112.610
Philadelphia
117.918
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Brooklyn
by 4 1/2
217
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
by 8
215
Dunkel Pick:
Brooklyn
(+8); Under

Charlotte @ Chicago

Game 505-506
February 20, 2020 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Charlotte
111.032
Chicago
109.425
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Charlotte
by 1 1/2
207
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago
by 5 1/2
210
Dunkel Pick:
Charlotte
(+5 1/2); Under

Memphis @ Sacramento

Game 509-510
February 20, 2020 @ 10:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Memphis
119.778
Sacramento
115.805
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Memphis
by 4
228
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Memphis
by 1
229 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Memphis
(-1); Under

Houston @ Golden State

Game 511-512
February 20, 2020 @ 10:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Houston
121.690
Golden State
108.149
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 13 1/2
229
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
by 10
232 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-10); Under

[Udog]

By: Monique Vág


MILWAUKEE BUCKS AT DETROIT PISTONS
MISMATCH IN MOTOWN

The Bucks are 13-point road favorites as they take on the Pistons. Milwaukee has won 10 straight in the head-to-head versus Detroit, and has covered the spread eight times throughout that stretch.

With the Pistons slumping offensively losing eight of their last 10 games and being held under 100 points four times throughout that stretch, expect Milwaukee to take care of business and cover the large spread on the road.


MIAMI HEAT AT ATLANTA HAWKS
HEAT COOLING OFF?

The Heat are 6.5-point favorites as they travel to Atlanta to take on the Hawks. Miami has won three straight in the head-to-head by an average score of 117-105.

Before the break, the Heat had some offensive struggles shooting under 45 percent in seven of their last 10 games. The Hawks on the other hand have averaged 123.7 points over their last three games and are capable of keeping things close. Take the Hawks getting 6.5-points.


CHARLOTTE HORNETS AT CHICAGO BULLS
LACK OF FIREPOWER

The lowest game total of the night is set at 211 between the Bulls and Hornets. These are two of the lower scoring teams in the Association with Chicago ranking 25th with 106.4 points a game, and the Hornets dead last with 102.9.

The Bulls are still too shorthanded to trust, with Lauri Markannen, Otto Porter Jr. and Wendell Carter Jr. among several other players still listed as out on the injury report. The Hornets have not been able to find an offensive groove, being held to 100 points or fewer in seven of their last 10. Look for both teams to continue to struggle putting up points, and bet Under the game total of 211.


BROOKLYN NETS AT PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
FILLING AN OFFENSIVE VOID

Brooklyn's Caris LeVert has finally started to round back into form after missing some time away due to injury. He's logged 20 or more points in four of his last five games and has attempted 20 field goals three times throughout that stretch.

With Kyrie Irving out of the lineup with a shoulder injury and LeVert shooting well, expect a big impact on the offensive end versus the 76ers today. The volume of attempts will surely be there, so take the Over 17.5 on his points total.


MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES AT SACRAMENTO KINGS
SLOW OUT OF THE GATE

The Grizzlies have won eight of their last 10 games overall and 10 of their last 12 versus Western Conference opponents. Despite their recent success, they are only 1.5-point road favorites tonight against the Kings.

Expect points to be difficult to come by early on, as both teams have gotten off to slow starts recently. The Grizzlies, who are typically high scoring, average only 53.8 first half points away from home, while the Kings put up just 52.3 first half ppg at home - ranking them 27th overall. Look for another slow start out of both sides, and bet Under the first half total of 112.5.

[Udog]

Friday’s 6-pack
NBA trends submitted for your perusal……
— Washington covered eight of its last 11 home games.
— Mavericks are 14-5-1 ATS in their last 20 road games.
— Phoenix covered once in its last six road games.
— Knicks are 9-6 ATS at home since changing coaches.
— Minnesota covered twice in its last sixteen games.
— Nuggets are 7-4 in their last eleven games.

Quote of the Day:
“It’s kind of hard when you have a computer program that breaks your signs. We actively changed signs. Every single pitch, we were changing signs. You had to because they would relay them to second, stealing them from first, too — from between your legs. They had a very intricate system going on. We were well aware of it and it was a challenge. It was a mental challenge to really overcome that. ”
Veteran catcher Jonathan Lucroy, talking about playing against the Astros

Friday’s quiz
Of the 40 teams in the Final Four over the last ten years, how many of them won their conference tournament that season?

Thursday’s quiz
Miami coach Jim Larranaga was coach at George Mason when they made the Final Four in 2006.

Wednesday’s quiz
Excalibur Casino in Las Vegas casino looks like a castle on the outside.

************************************************** *************************

Friday’s List of 13: Random stuff with weekend here……

13) Eastern Illinois 63, Murray State 60— Racers led this game 50-23 with 11:45 left to play, and lost; they led by 24 with 8:33 left. Panthers outscored Murray 35-10 over last 10:00 of game, as Racers lose for third time in last five games, and slip into a tie for 2nd in OVC with Belmont.

12) Gonzaga 71, San Francisco 54— USF was up 31-22 at half; first time they met, Gonzaga was down 43-35 at halftime, but won 83-79. Gonzaga was 25-32 on foul line in first meeting, only 4-5 on arc. Last night, they were 5-13 on arc, 8-15 on foul line.

San Francisco might be the best 17-11 team in the country; whoever draws Gonzaga in the NCAA’s is going to watch film of these two games, for sure.

11) Four games in the WCC Thursday, favorites won all four, but none of them covered.

10) Arizona State 77, Oregon 72— Bill Walton’s random fact of the night: Tempe, AZ is the #1 drop-off destination in the country for U-Haul vehicles.

Frank Caliendo joined the broadcast for part of the first half; his impersonation of Walton is spot-on. Having two guys on a broadcast who talk like Walton was a bit much.

9) Temple 93, UConn 89 2OT— Owls were 27-35 on foul line, UConn 18-20, in game where the Huskies led by 12 early on. Temple won three of its last four games, with all three wins by 4 or less points, or in OT.

8) 3-pointers became a permanent thing in college basketball in the fall of 1986; since then, only two teams (UNLV, Princeton) have made a 3-pointer in all their games.

Vanderbilt was also on this list, until they went 0-25 on arc against Tennessee January 18.

7) Indiana State 67, Northern Iowa 64— Minor upset in MVC, but Panthers lose in Terre Haute for fifth year in a row, so not as big an upset as the standings would suggest.

6) Hawai’i 56, Cal-Riverside 55— Rainbows blew a 17-point lead, but won and snapped their 4-game losing skid in what was an oddly entertaining game. Not often Riverside gets national TV exposure; both teams played their hearts out, but neither team is very good.

5) Stanford 72, Washington 64— This is how fragile teams are in today’s college basketball, even really good teams. On January 5, Washington pounded USC 72-40; they were 11-4, ranked #50 in country by KenPom. Then point guard Quade Green flunked out of school.

Since then, losing one player, Washington is 1-11, and has dropped into last place in Pac-12. Huskies would be a lock for the NCAA’s if they had better tutors (kidding, kind of).

4) Upsets:
— Denver (+6.5) 100, Oral Roberts 96 OT
— Wm & Mary (+6) 61, Towson State 51
— Youngstown State (+6) 88, Wright State 70
— UMBC (+5) 69, Albany 50
— Eastern Illinois (+4.5) 63, Murray State 60

3) Surprising stat of the day: Patrick Mahomes played for three years at Texas Tech; they went 16-21 in those three seasons.

2) 76ers 112, Nets 104 OT— If you had Brooklyn +6.5, this was a bitter defeat; Nets led by 20 at one point. Ben Simmons didn’t play; Embiid scored 39, grabbed 16 rebounds.

1) All winter long, I’ve read about the Cubs trading Kris Bryant; all of a sudden, Bryant is going to be their new leadoff hitter. Go figure.

[Udog]

513CLEVELAND -514 WASHINGTON
CLEVELAND is 8-0 ATS (8 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - shooting pct defense of >=46% in the current season.

515DALLAS -516 ORLANDO
DALLAS are 14-1 ATS (12.9 Units) in road games after playing a home game in the current season.

517PHOENIX -518 TORONTO
TORONTO is 11-2 ATS (8.8 Units) as a home favorite of 6.5 to 12 points in the current season.

521BOSTON -522 MINNESOTA
MINNESOTA is 9-24 ATS (-17.4 Units) after failing to cover 6 or 7 of their last 8 against the spread in the last 3 seasons.

523DENVER -524 OKLAHOMA CITY
OKLAHOMA CITY is 272-222 ATS (27.8 Units) versus poor pressure defensive teams - forcing <=14 turnovers/game since 1996.

525SAN ANTONIO -526 UTAH
SAN ANTONIO is 14-29 ATS (-17.9 Units) after a combined score of 215 points or more 3 straight games in the last 3 seasons.

527NEW ORLEANS -528 PORTLAND
NEW ORLEANS are 10-2 ATS (7.8 Units) in road games versus poor pressure defensive teams - forcing <=14 turnovers/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

529MEMPHIS -530 LA LAKERS
LA LAKERS are 8-0 ATS (8 Units) in home games off a road win in the current season.

[Udog]

NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, February 21

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CLEVELAND (14 - 40) at WASHINGTON (20 - 33) - 2/21/2020, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 101-133 ATS (-45.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 62-83 ATS (-29.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 30-18 ATS (+10.2 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
WASHINGTON is 41-61 ATS (-26.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 166-218 ATS (-73.8 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 144-185 ATS (-59.5 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 45-63 ATS (-24.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 5-5 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
CLEVELAND is 6-4 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DALLAS (33 - 22) at ORLANDO (24 - 31) - 2/21/2020, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 32-23 ATS (+6.7 Units) in all games this season.
DALLAS is 20-6 ATS (+13.4 Units) in road games this season.
DALLAS is 32-18 ATS (+12.2 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 74-47 ATS (+22.3 Units) in road games after scoring 115 points or more since 1996.
DALLAS is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
ORLANDO is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) as an underdog this season.
ORLANDO is 14-27 ATS (-15.7 Units) on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
ORLANDO is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
ORLANDO is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
ORLANDO is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.
ORLANDO is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 3-2 against the spread versus ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 3-2 straight up against ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PHOENIX (22 - 33) at TORONTO (40 - 15) - 2/21/2020, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 61-75 ATS (-21.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in road games in February games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 19-34 ATS (-18.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 47-63 ATS (-22.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 26-42 ATS (-20.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 45-64 ATS (-25.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 16-28 ATS (-14.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 63-43 ATS (+15.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) against Atlantic division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 4-0 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 4-0 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INDIANA (32 - 23) at NEW YORK (17 - 38) - 2/21/2020, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 236-177 ATS (+41.3 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.
NEW YORK is 25-41 ATS (-20.1 Units) in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
NEW YORK is 44-59 ATS (-20.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 5-3 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 7-2 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BOSTON (38 - 16) at MINNESOTA (16 - 37) - 2/21/2020, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 32-21 ATS (+8.9 Units) in all games this season.
BOSTON is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
MINNESOTA is 18-33 ATS (-18.3 Units) in all games this season.
MINNESOTA is 11-28 ATS (-19.8 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
MINNESOTA is 6-20 ATS (-16.0 Units) in home games this season.
MINNESOTA is 3-17 ATS (-15.7 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
MINNESOTA is 389-461 ATS (-118.1 Units) in the second half of the season since 1996.
MINNESOTA is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) after allowing 115 points or more this season.
MINNESOTA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MINNESOTA is 13-28 ATS (-17.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
MINNESOTA is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.
MINNESOTA is 11-26 ATS (-17.6 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.
MINNESOTA is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 4-0 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 4-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DENVER (38 - 17) at OKLAHOMA CITY (33 - 22) - 2/21/2020, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 8-21 ATS (-15.1 Units) in road games after scoring 115 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 35-19 ATS (+14.1 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 226-182 ATS (+25.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 35-23 ATS (+9.7 Units) after scoring 115 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 27-17 ATS (+8.3 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.
DENVER is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 9-0 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 8-1 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SAN ANTONIO (23 - 31) at UTAH (36 - 18) - 2/21/2020, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 40-27 ATS (+10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
UTAH is 67-49 ATS (+13.1 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
UTAH is 46-30 ATS (+13.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 1116-989 ATS (+28.1 Units) in all games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
UTAH is 4-4 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
UTAH is 5-3 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW ORLEANS (23 - 32) at PORTLAND (25 - 31) - 2/21/2020, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 4-17 ATS (-14.7 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 27-14 ATS (+11.6 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PORTLAND is 17-26 ATS (-11.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
PORTLAND is 14-24 ATS (-12.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 9-5 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 9-5 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
7 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEMPHIS (28 - 27) at LA LAKERS (41 - 12) - 2/21/2020, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 27-18 ATS (+7.2 Units) when the total is greater than or equal to 220 this season.
MEMPHIS is 27-14 ATS (+11.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 5-4 against the spread versus LA LAKERS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 5-4 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NBA
Dunkel

Friday, February 21


Dallas @ Orlando

Game 515-516
February 21, 2020 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Dallas
120.738
Orlando
112.609
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Dallas
by 8
231
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Dallas
by 4
220
Dunkel Pick:
Dallas
(-4); Over

Cleveland @ Washington

Game 513-514
February 21, 2020 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
107.277
Washington
117.418
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 10
230
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
by 6
236 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(-6); Under

Indiana @ New York

Game 519-520
February 21, 2020 @ 7:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Indiana
116.808
New York
113.815
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Indiana
by 2
218
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indiana
by 6 1/2
211 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New York
(+6 1/2); Over

Phoenix @ Toronto

Game 517-518
February 21, 2020 @ 7:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Phoenix
116.819
Toronto
122.199
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto
by 5 1/2
222
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Toronto
by 7 1/2
228 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Phoenix
(+7 1/2); Under

Boston @ Minnesota

Game 521-522
February 21, 2020 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Boston
119.210
Minnesota
116.162
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Boston
by 3
232
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
by 7
228 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
(+7); Over

Denver @ Oklahoma City

Game 523-524
February 21, 2020 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Denver
123.251
Oklahoma City
120.750
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Denver
by 2 1/2
224
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oklahoma City
by 1 1/2
215
Dunkel Pick:
Denver
(+1 1/2); Over

San Antonio @ Utah

Game 525-526
February 21, 2020 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Antonio
113.908
Utah
124.137
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Utah
by 10
228
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Utah
by 7
221 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Utah
(-7); Over

Memphis @ LA Lakers

Game 529-530
February 21, 2020 @ 10:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Memphis
118.715
LA Lakers
123.887
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Lakers
by 5
225
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Lakers
by 11
232 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Memphis
(+11); Under

New Orleans @ Portland

Game 527-528
February 21, 2020 @ 10:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New Orleans
123.091
Portland
115.926
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New Orleans
by 7
241
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New Orleans
by 4 1/2
237 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New Orleans
(-4 1/2); Over

[Udog]

By: Monique Vág


DISAPPEARING ACT

The Mavericks are 4-point road favorites traveling to play the Magic. Dallas has historically had success in the head-to-head series versus Orlando, winning 12 of the most recent 16 games and covering the spread 11 times throughout that stretch.

The Magic are having offensive struggles in recent outings, being held to 100 points or less in six of their last 10 games. They take on a Mavs team with the highest scoring road offense in the NBA, averaging 118 per away contest. Look for Dallas to take care of business on the road and cover the 4-point spread.


PHOENIX RISING

Toronto will once again be without Marc Gasol and Norman Powell, with both players dealing with injuries. Despite this news, the Raptors are still 7.5-point favorites hosting Suns. Phoenix has been surprisingly good versus the reigning NBA champs, covering the spread in 10 straight meetings with Toronto and winning four of those games outright.

With the Suns offense putting up big numbers away from the desert, averaging 111.4 points and 45.6 percent shooting per road contest, look for the Suns' to keep things close and bet Phoenix getting 7.5 points.


NO JOKE

The Thunder hope to gain some valuable playoff seeding, hosting the Nuggets as 1.5-point favorites. Both teams come in hot with the Nuggets winning four of their last five games and the Thunder picking up 10 wins in their previous 13 outings.

Denver big man Nikola Jokic averages 6.9 assists per contest but has registered 10 or more assists in four of the Nuggets' last 10 games. When these two teams met up earlier this season, Jokic posted a triple-double with 28 points, 14 boards, and 12 dimes. Expect big numbers again tonight and bet Over his assists total of 6.5.


FIRST AND FOREMOST

The Jazz snapped their five-game losing streak in fashion, putting together four wins in a row versus playoff teams before the All-Star Break. Utah is giving seven points to the visiting Spurs tonight.

Both the Spurs and Jazz have gotten out to quick starts this season, with San Antonio averaging a very high 28.8 first-quarter points per game on the road and the Jazz averaging 29.5 points in the opening frame on their home court. Expect both offenses to be flowing early and their first-quarter success to continue. Bet Over the first-quarter game total of 53.5 points.


BIRDS OF PREY

The Pelicans are 5-point road favorites in Portland Friday night. New Orleans enters the weekend relatively healthy but the Blazers have a long list of injuries, most notably All-Star guard Damian Lillard who is out with a groin injury.

With the Pelicans putting up 120 points or more in six of their last 10 games and winning seven of the last 10 in the head-to-head versus the Blazers, expect their hot shooting to continue versus a very shorthanded Blazers squad. Take New Orleans to cover the 5-point spread on the road.

[Udog]

NBA Hoop Betting Trends and Angles - Friday
Vince Akins

ATS Play ON Trend of the Day:

-- The Nuggets are 12-0 ATS (8.12 ppg) off a home loss in overtime.

ATS Play AGAINST Trend of the Day:

-- The Suns are 0-11 ATS (-8.36 ppg) with more than two days of rest.

OU Play OVER Trend of the Day:

-- The Timberwolves are 17-0 OU (15.26 ppg) after they had 3 or fewer double digit scorers.

OU Play UNDER Trend of the Day:

-- The Magic are 0-11 OU (-15.95 ppg) as a home dog off a game as a favorite.

[Udog]

Friday's NBA Game Previews: Odds, Lines, & Spreads
Tony Mejia

Top Game: Pelicans (-4.5, 235.5) at Trail Blazers, 10:35 p.m. ET, ESPN

The Zion Williamson show picks up again. Last time we saw him came seven days ago, when the rookie took aim at the rim to close out the Rising Stars Challenge, missing a few ridiculous dunk attempts as Team USA rolled over the rest of the world.

The Pelicans open the post-All-Star stretch run in last place in the Southwest Division, five full games behind the Grizzlies in the race for the eighth and final Western Conference playoff spot.

Portland is 3.5 games behind Memphis and hopes to ride Damian Lillard to a seventh straight playoff appearance. Unfortunately, they’ll have to gain traction without him for about a week since the groin strain that forced him to skip the All-Star Game is expected to keep him out for three to four games.

C.J. McCollum, Anfernee Simons and Gary Trent, Jr. will have to help Carmelo Anthony and Hassan Whiteside hold the fort down on a crucial three-game homestand featuring games against the Pistons and Celtics. Center Jusuf Nurkic probably isn’t ready to return, so a shorthanded group will try and fend off a Pelicans team that will be back at full strength since Brandon Ingram has come off the injury list. Ingram missed time with an ankle injury last week and was limited in the All-Star Game but should play without restrictions.

The Blazers have given up at least 117 points in four of their last six games and are on a 2-4 run (3-3 ATS). New Orleans is 6-3 (5-3-1) over its last nine and has been successful as a road favorite, winning four of five in that role (3-1-1). The ‘over’ has cashed in four straight Pelicans’ games.

New Orleans has won all three regular-season meetings thus far, most recently posting a 138-117 rout on Feb. 11 behind Williamson’s 31 points. Ingram was sidelined. The Blazers swept last season’s contests, going 3-0.

Cavs at Wizards (-6, 236.5), 7:05 p.m. ET
Cleveland will play its first game under Bernie Bickerstaff after John Beilein resigned earlier this week, so we’ll see if a happier group gets results in D.C. The Cavs sent Beilein off with a win prior to the break, waxing Atlanta 127-105. They have only won consecutive games once in 2020.

Washington has pulled into the ninth spot in the East, three games behind eighth-seeded Orlando. Over the past 10 games, only Toronto, Milwaukee and Boston have a better record than the Wizards among Eastern Conference teams. Bradley Beal took his All-Star snub to heart and has led his team to victories in five of seven, scoring at least 30 points in eight of his last 10 games. Centers Thomas Bryant and Ian Mahinmi are questionable to play through foot injuries. Kevin Love is going to play despite Achilles issues. These teams have split their two matchups.

Mavericks (-4, 220) at Magic, 7:05 p.m. ET
Luka Doncic led Dallas to a rout of Sacramento last week in returning from an ankle injury that had kept him out since late January. The Mavs are opening a stretch where they’ll play six of seven games on the road, where they’ve been fantastic all season, coming in 18-8. That mark is second-best among all West teams and ranks fourth in the NBA.

Orlando has won consecutive home games after an 0-5 stretch at the Amway Center where it failed to even cover a spread. The Magic could get back reserve point guard D.J. Augustin, a sparkplug off the bench, as he’s listed as a game-time decision after missing over a month of action due to a knee injury. Dallas won the only regular-season meeting 107-106 on Nov. 6 and has seen the ‘over’ connect in six straight games, part of an 8-1 run. The high side is on a 4-1-1 run in Magic games.

Suns at Raptors (-7.5/228.5), 7:35 p.m. ET
Phoenix center Deandre Ayton will be back after missing last week’s contests with an ankle sprain and backup Aron Baynes will join him, returning from a 13-game absence due to a hip injury. Getting those two back gives the Suns an opportunity to pull off an upset against a Raptors’ team that has won 15 of 16 games.

Toronto still won’t have Marc Gasol (hamstring) and Norman Powell (finger) in the lineup and may also be without Patrick McCaw (illness). Overcoming injuries has been nothing new for Nick Nurse’s group, which carries a seven-game home winning streak into this one. The ‘over’ went 12-3 during the Raptors’ 15-game winning streak that ended in Brooklyn just before break. This is the first meeting of the season between these teams. The Raps have won their last four matchups against the Suns.

Pacers (-6.5, 211.5) at Knicks, 7:35 p.m. ET
Indiana’s six-game losing streak came to an end on Feb. 12 with a win over the Giannis Antetokounmpo-less Bucks, so it is looking for consecutive wins for the first time since Jan 22-24. Victor Oladipo has started slowly since returning, shooting 33 percent and averaging 11.1 points per game, but he shot over .500 in a game for the first time all season in the win over the Bucks. T.J. Warren is hoping to overcome a back issue in order to play here.

New York opened a season-best four-game winning streak with a 92-85 victory over Indiana on Feb. 1, but come into this one on a two-game slide. Elfrid Payton has been a catalyst for the Knicks, settling in as the starting point guard and averaging 12.3 points, 6.2 rebounds and 9.2 assists over his last 12 games, but he’s nursing an ankle injury and is listed as questionable. The Knicks had lost seven straight against the Pacers before their upset to open the month. The ‘over’ is on a 15-6 run in Indiana games, prevailing in five of the last six.

Celtics (-6.5, 228.5) at Timberwolves, 8:05 p.m. ET
Boston won’t have All-Star point guard Kemba Walker at the controls due to a sore left knee, but the time off likely did wonders for Jaylen Brown’s sore ankles. Jayson Tatum outperformed Kawhi Leonard in a huge win over the Clippers last week and has blossomed into the best player from the 2017 draft class. The Celtics have won 11 of 13 games, covering on 10 occasions.

Boston will be a road favorite against a Timberwolves team missing star big man Karl-Anthony Towns and has gone 10-3 in that role this season. With Towns out due to a wrist injury and Andrew Wiggins shipped to Golden State, the new-look T’Wolves will rely on new guards D’Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley. If nothing else, Minnesota will have the element of surprise as an advantage but cohesion may be an issue.

Nuggets at Thunder (-1, 215), 8:05 p.m. ET, ESPN
Center Nikola Jokic has averaged 27 points, 12 rebounds and 9.2 assists in February to help Denver secure the second-best record in the West despite a number of major injuries. Jamal Murray and Paul Millsap have returned, while rookie Michael Porter, Jr. and backup center Mason Plumlee will both return to the lineup after extended absences. The Nuggets aren’t going to be whole since small forward Will Barton is likely to miss another game due to knee pain.

Oklahoma City has won 10 of 13 and will be home for four of the next six games, facing the Spurs, Kings and Clippers in important conference games. Only the Lakers and Nuggets have a better conference mark than the Thunder, who are hoping to shake a 4-6 slide at Chesapeake Energy Arena. OKC will face Denver three times between now and the end of the regular season and therefore can really make inroads if it can slow down Jokic, who had a triple-double in a 110-102 victory when the teams met in Denver on Dec. 14. The Nuggets have won the last seven meetings against Oklahoma City, winning each of the last five by at least seven points.

Spurs at Jazz (-7, 221.5), 9:05 p.m. ET
Barring a spirited comeback, San Antonio is going to miss the playoffs for the first time since 1997, when it bottomed out without an injured David Robinson and drafted Tim Duncan. The Spurs open the evening 4.5 games behind Memphis but will have DeMar DeRozan in the fold after back soreness sidelined him for the final two contests prior to the All-Star break. They snapped a five-game losing streak with an upset of the Thunder on Feb. 11 to finally get on the board on this current Rodeo road trip and won’t play their first home game since Feb. 1 until next Wednesday.

Philadelphia’s comeback over Brooklyn on Thursday allowed it to match Utah with a league-best four-game winning streak, so holding serve would give the Jazz the league’s longest current surge once again. Mike Conley is taking the night off to avoid playing both sets of a back-to-back, but the Jazz are otherwise healthy as they try to improve on the NBA’s fifth-best home record. The ‘over’ has prevailed in five straight games involving the Spurs and three of the last four involving Utah.

Grizzlies at Lakers (-11, 232.5), 10:35 p.m. ET
Memphis looked listless for the better part of the first three quarters in Sacramento on Thursday night, ultimately costing it as its comeback bid fell short in a 129-125 loss. The Grizzlies have lost consecutive games only once in 2020 and have a 15-5 mark over their last 20, covering on 14 occasions. The Griz have won their last four contests on the second night of a back-to-back but they’re 0-2 against the Lakers this season, which includes a 120-91 rout at Staples on Oct. 29.

L.A. has a better road record than the 18-7 mark it has compiled at home, dropping three of its last five there. The Lakers have scored at least 120 points in each of their last six victories. Their 28-6 mark against Western Conference foes is by far the best in the NBA. Anthony Davis will play through a finger injury, so outside of DeMarcus Cousins, Frank Vogel will have his full roster at his disposal. The ‘over’ is on a 12-4 run in games involving the Purple and Gold.