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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 06:53 AM

Daily Sports Roundup: April 20

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Lakers look to bounce back against the Hornets, while the Angels battle the Rangers, and the Capitals take the ice in New York.

Tipping off on the hardwood . . .

The NBA offers up three playoff matchups on Wednesday, with Denver at Oklahoma City, Memphis at San Antonio, and New Orleans at the Lakers. The Hornets shocked the Lakers in Game 1 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series on Sunday, picking up a 109-100 road win behind a 33-point performance from Chris Paul. Carl Landry added 17 points in that victory for New Orleans, while Trevor Ariza picked up six points and seven rebounds. Kobe Bryant had a team-high 34 points for Los Angeles in Sunday's loss, while Pau Gasol was held to just eight points in the contest. The Lakers are set as 12-point home favorites for Game 2, with the total listed at 187.5.

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

On the American League schedule for Wednesday it's Boston at Oakland, Detroit at Seattle, the White Sox at Tampa Bay, Minnesota at Baltimore, the Yankees at Toronto, Cleveland at Kansas City, and the Angels at Texas. Los Angeles' Jered Weaver (4-0, 1.30 ERA) will take on the Rangers' Matt Harrison (3-0, 1.23 ERA) in that last matchup. Righthander Weaver picked up his fourth straight win in his last trip to the mound, holding the White Sox to three runs (two earned) on four hits over his seven innings of work. Lefthander Harrison continued his unbeaten start to the season by bouncing the Yankees last time out, allowing two runs (one earned) on seven hits in his eight innings.

The National League on Wednesday then has Milwaukee at Philadelphia, San Diego at the Cubs, Houston at the Mets, Pittsburgh at Florida, Arizona at Cincinnati, Washington at St. Louis, Atlanta at the Dodgers, and San Francisco at Colorado. The Giants will send Matt Cain (2-0, 1.42 ERA) to the mound against the Rockies; righthander Cain is coming off a win over the Diamondbacks, surrendering one run on four hits over his six innings pitched that day. Jorge De La Rosa (2-0, 3.18 ERA) will counter for the Rockies; lefthander De La Rosa beat the Mets in his last trip to the mound, giving up four runs on five hits over 6 2-3 innings of work in that contest.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

As well, there are five games on the NHL's playoff schedule for Wednesday, with Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay, Philadelphia at Buffalo, Anaheim at Nashville, Detroit at Phoenix, and Washington at the Rangers. New York cut the Capitals' lead in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference first-round series to 2-1 with a 3-2 home win in Game 3 on Sunday afternoon. Erik Christensen, Vinny Prospal, and Brandon Dubinsky had the goals for the Rangers in that victory, while Henrik Lundqvist made 23 saves. Alex Ovechkin and Mike Knuble had the goals in that losing cause for the Capitals, and Michal Neuvirth stopped 32 of 35 New York shots. Oddsmakers opened New York as a slight -120 home favorite for Wednesday's Game 4, with the total for the contest set at 5.

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 06:56 AM

Wednesday's betting notes: Phillies bullpen is black and blue

Line to watch

New Orleans Hornets at Los Angeles Lakers (-11.5, 187.5)

This line opened at -12 in favor of the Lakers and was bet down to -11. However, smart money is starting to come back in on Los Angeles and has the spread back up to -11.5. The underdog is 15-4 in the last 19 meetings between these teams.

Weather to watch

Houston Astros at New York Mets (-145, 7.5)

The forecast for Citi Field is calling for isolated thunder showers and a 30 percent chance of rain when the Mets host the Astros at 7:10 p.m. ET. Winds are expected to reach 20 mph, blowing out of the west.

Who’s hot?

Cleveland Indians – Heading into Tuesday’s game in Kansas City, the Tribe have won four straight and are 8-2 in their last 10 outings.

Washington Nationals – The Nats took a three-game winning streak into Tuesday’s opener with the Cardinals. Washington is actually 7-3 in its last 10 and have earned 3.30 units on the season.

Detroit Red Wings – The Red Wings aren’t taking any chances with the Coyotes this postseason. Detroit has won three straight over Phoenix and is 6-2 in its last eight going back to the regular season. Books have the Red Wings set as -131 road favorites for Wednesday’s Game 4 in Arizona.

Who’s not?

Phoenix Coyotes – On top of being down 0-3 to Detroit, Phoenix has just three wins in its last 10 games going back to the regular season. The Coyotes are +121 home dogs facing elimination Wednesday night.

Chicago White Sox – The ChiSox took a five-game slide into Tuesday’s Game 2 with the Rays. Chicago is hemorrhaging runs during this skid, allowing opponents to total 27 runs in those five games.

Key stat

7 – The Heat are just 7 for 32 (22 percent) from beyond the arc in the first two games of their opening-round series with the Sixers. Mike Bibby and James Jones, Miami’s two best 3-point shooters, are a combined 5 for 19 from outside in the series. Books have the Heat as 4.5-point favorites for Game 3 in Philadelphia Thursday.

Game of the Day

Washington Capitals at New York Rangers (-107, 5)

Injury that should not be overlooked

Arron Afflalo will not be in the Nuggets lineup versus the Thunder Wednesday night. Afflalo, who averaged almost 13 points and is Denver’s top perimeter defender, is still nursing a strained hamstring. Without Afflalo on the floor, the Nuggets allowed OKC’s guard Russell Westbrook to pour in 31 points on 12-of-23 shooting.

Notable quotable

"Well, the one thing, its reputation is far better than the actual building. I mean, it's nothing. The locker rooms are horrible. The benches are horrible. There's no room for anything. But the reputation of being in Madison Square Garden is what makes it famous. Also, our building's a lot louder, too. So I mean, they can say what they want, but it's not that loud in there." – Capitals head coach Bruce Boudreau on Madison Square Garden.

Notes and tips

- Twins first baseman and former AL MVP Justin Morneau missed Tuesday’s tilt with the Orioles due to the flu. Morneau has been out of action since Saturday and his status going forward is unknown. Morneau, who is hitting just .208 with three RBIs, is being replaced on first by Michael Cuddyer.

- Manu Ginobili is expected to return to the Spurs lineup after missing Game 1 versus the Grizzlies this weekend. San Antonio was shocked by the No. 8 seed, losing 101-98 to Memphis as a 6.5-point home favorite. Ginobili injured his elbow in the final game of the regular season. The Spurs are 0-3 ATS without the Argentine in the lineup this season.

- The Phillies may have the best pitching rotation in the history of baseball, but their bullpen is about as thin as a rookie’s playoff beard. Philadelphia placed right-handed reliever J.C. Romero on the 15-day DL with a calf injury, putting him alongside closer Brad Lidge. The Phillies relievers have posted a collective 2.32 ERA heading into Tuesday. Perhaps Charlie Manuel will consider signing the robot that is scheduled to throw out the first pitch at Wednesday’s series finale with the Brewers.

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 06:59 AM

Wednesday's six-pack

-- San Jose Sharks are first NHL team since 1985 to win a playoff game after being down four goals; they beat the Kings 6-5 in OT at Staples.

-- In case you were wondering, Minnesota North Stars were last team to win a playoff game after being down four goals.

-- Carmelo Anthony had 42 points, 17 rebounds in a tough loss for the Knicks, who played without Billups; Stoudemire missed the 2nd half. Bill Walker was +10 in 33 minutes, but he was also 0-11 from floor.

-- Brett Anderson allowed five baserunners in eight innings as Oakland beat the Red Sox 5-0. Anderson is damned good pitcher.

-- Milwaukee beat Roy Halladay 9-0 in Philly; who saw that coming?

-- Tampa Bay Rays won seven of last eight games after a 1-8 start, and it has all happened with Evan Longoria on the DL.

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Wednesday's List of 13: Random mid-week thoughts..........

13) There is a pompous talk-show host in NYC who hates the Mets, even though he makes a fortune working for the radio station that broadcasts Mets games; he bashes them at every turn. One of his favorite rants is how Jose Reyes isn’t a clutch player; it all sounds good, except for the fact that he is dead wrong.

12) Reyes has played eight full years in the majors before this season;
-- his batting average with runners in scoring position (RISP) has been higher than his BA in other at-bats four times in eight years, the same once, and lower three times. Hardly the sign of a non-clutch player.
-- Reyes' slugging percentage has been higher with RISP in five of the eight years; his on-base percentage higher in seven of the eight years.

To say that Jose Reyes is lousy in the clutch (he is off to a poor start this year, but its still April), is not only unfair, its simply incorrect. But since when has that ever stopped a loudmouth?

11) Why did Rick Adelman and the Rockets part ways? They both had nice things to say about the other, the players want him to stay, he’s a very successful NBA coach. This makes no sense unless they just don’t want to pay him what he’s worth, a la Carolina Panthers/John Fox.

10) Nuggets are the only team to shoot 50%+ from the floor and lose in the playoffs so far.

9) NBA playoffs are totally unlike the regular season, in that there are almost always 2-3 days between games, so there is plenty of prep time, unlike the regular season, where you might play four games in five cities in the same week. This is why shooting percentages tend to dip as a series goes on- both teams become so familiar with each others sets, its almost like watching a practice. Very few easy baskets in playoffs. Rebounding then becomes even more important than usual.

8) Bulls missed 86 shots in the first two games of their Indiana series; Chicago got the rebound 41 times, the Pacers 45; this is an exceptionally high offensive rebounding percentage for the Bulls. Indiana needs to clean that up or they'll get swept.

7) NBA.com’s layout for the playoffs is super; you can navigate every easily from series to series. Better than NHL.com’s, for sure. 6) The NHL has four games on Saturday, starting with Lightning-Penguins at noon. I don’t have an opinion on this yet, but is playing a high-level game like this at noon good the players/fans? I’m just asking. Obviously, TV called this shot.

5) Speaking of which, NHL signed up for ten more years of NBC/Versus, but with the highest rates fees ($200M+ a year) the league has ever gotten. Good for them, but if I’m Gary Bettman, I really want my league to have a presence on ESPN. I think it’s a mistake not to.

4) Miserable human Robert M. Knight did a rip job on Kentucky’s hoop program at a banquet in Indiana recently; lot of the stuff he said, mostly about none of Kentucky's starters attending class in spring of 2010, was just plain wrong, Patrick Patterson graduated college in three years, for one. Maybe the old man was just stirring the pot, but the time for him to leave the national stage came a long time ago. ESPN would do well to pull the plug on his worn-out act.

3) There will some interesting kids to follow during the NFL Draft; QBs Newton/Mallett being two of the most interesting. Mallett is slow, he was compared to Ryan Leaf (the ultimate damning) by one scout, but others think he takes to coaching well. Tom Brady is slow, too, but then again, no one ever compared Brady to Leaf.

2) Some people came out this week, said that Nevada’s Colin Kaepernick is a better athlete than Cam Newton, which may be true, but Newton can throw the ball a lot better. So much of what makes an NFL QB successful is stuff that you and I can’t see; intangible leadership things that go on in the huddle or behind closed doors. That seems to be the biggest question surrounding Newton; can he lead an NFL team?

1) NFL is playing a full schedule of games on Christmas Eve, which is on a Saturday; there is also a full slate of games on New Year's Day.

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:03 AM

NBA
Long Sheet

Wednesday, April 20

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DENVER (50 - 33) at OKLAHOMA CITY (56 - 27) - 4/20/2011, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 36-49 ATS (-17.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 94-75 ATS (+11.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 52-38 ATS (+10.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 46-35 ATS (+7.5 Units) in all games this season.
DENVER is 22-13 ATS (+7.7 Units) as an underdog this season.
DENVER is 64-46 ATS (+13.4 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.
DENVER is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) after a division game this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-15 ATS (-9.5 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 8-5 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 8-5 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MEMPHIS (47 - 36) at SAN ANTONIO (61 - 22) - 4/20/2011, 8:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 8-5 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 8-5 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NEW ORLEANS (47 - 36) at LA LAKERS (57 - 26) - 4/20/2011, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 55-84 ATS (-37.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 30-49 ATS (-23.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 101-63 ATS (+31.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs since 1996.
LA LAKERS are 84-102 ATS (-28.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 72-87 ATS (-23.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 15-27 ATS (-14.7 Units) in home games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 6-6 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 9-3 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
8 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:06 AM

NBA
Short Sheet

Wednesday, April 20

Western Conference Playoffs - First Round - Best of 7 - Game 2 - OKC Leads 1-0
DENVER at OKLAHOMA CITY, 8:05 PM ET TNT
DENVER: 5-1 Over if trailing in a playoff series
OKLAHOMA CITY: 25-9 Over if home favorite L2 games

Western Conference Playoffs - First Round - Best of 7 - Game 2 - MEM Leads 1-0
MEMPHIS at SAN ANTONIO, 8:35 PM ET NBA TV
MEMPHIS: 7-0 ATS off 3+ road games
SAN ANTONIO: 1-6 ATS off BB SU losses

Western Conference Playoffs - First Round - Best of 7 - Game 2 - NO Leads 1-0
NEW ORLEANS at LA LAKERS, 10:35 PM ET TNT
NEW ORLEANS: 13-5 Under off road win
LA LAKERS: 18-8 Under playing with 2 days rest

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:07 AM

NBA
Write-Up

Wednesday, April 20

Under is 6-2 in Eastern games so far, 1-4 in Western games; favorites are 2-3 vs spread out west, but just 1-7 in the East.

Memphis is 5-0 vs spread when playing Spurs this year; they're 10-3 vs spread in last 13 games overall, 13-5 in last 18 games as a dog. Spurs are 4-9 in last 13 games; they missed Ginobili badly in Game 1, as Grizzlies shot 55% from floor, offsetting Spurs' 36-21 scoring edge from foul line. Game 1 win was Grizzlies' first playoff win in franchise history.

Lakers were 4-0 vs New Orleans during season (3-1 vs spread) but lost Game 1 at home, as Hornets shot 52% while turning ball over only three times whole game, as Paul had 33 points, 14 assists. Over is 3-1-1 in the series. Lakers lost six of their last eight games; they're 5-10 vs spread in last 15 games as a favorite. Hornets are 3-4 vs spread in last seven games as an underdog. Kobe sat out 5:55; Lakers were -11 in that 5:55.

Thunder bench was combined +32 in Game 1, as VCU alum Maynor had 12 points in just 11:32. Denver is 16-7 after trading Carmelo Anthony, but they've lost three of four vs Oklahoma City this year, with losses by 8-15-4 on this court. Denver is 10-2 vs spread as an underdog since the trade. Thunder won six of their last seven games overall.

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:10 AM

NBA

Wednesday, April 20

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Trend Report
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8:00 PM
DENVER vs. OKLAHOMA CITY
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Denver's last 13 games on the road
Denver is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oklahoma City
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Oklahoma City's last 11 games when playing at home against Denver
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Oklahoma City's last 18 games when playing Denver

8:30 PM
MEMPHIS vs. SAN ANTONIO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Memphis's last 5 games
Memphis is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Antonio's last 6 games when playing Memphis
San Antonio is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Memphis

10:30 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. LA LAKERS
New Orleans is 1-5 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against LA Lakers
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 7 games when playing LA Lakers
LA Lakers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games when playing at home against New Orleans
LA Lakers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games at home

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:15 AM

NBA

Wednesday, April 20

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What bettors need to know: Wednesday's NBA playoff action
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Denver Nuggets at Oklahoma City Thunder (-4.5, 207)

Oklahoma City leads series 1-0

THE STORY: The Denver Nuggets knew that Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook would likely do the bulk of the damage in their Western Conference quarterfinal series with the Oklahoma City Thunder. They'll need to do a much better job of containing the dynamic duo in Game 2 of the best-of-seven series Wednesday night in Oklahoma City. The Thunder escaped with a 107-103 win behind a combined 72 points from their two young superstars.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE THUNDER: Durant (41) and Westbrook (31) both set career playoff highs in Game 1, but it still took some late heroics - highlighted by a controversial non-call - to pull out the win. Kendrick Perkins' tip-in with 1:05 remaining put the Thunder ahead for good, but the basket should have been disallowed due to offensive goaltending. The referees allowed the shot to count despite pleas from Nuggets players and coaches, and Denver appeared rattled on its next possession, settling for a missed 21-footer from Kenyon Martin. The Thunder held on from there for their third win over the Nuggets in the past 13 days.

ABOUT THE NUGGETS: Frustration reigned following Sunday's season-opening loss, and most of it was directed at the officials. The league admitted the referees made a mistake in allowing the basket to count, which did little to placate Denver coach George Karl. “What can I say? It’s tough," he said. When you fight hard, it’s hard because guys give you everything you possibly can give there.” The Nuggets received more bad news Monday when they learned Arron Afflalo will miss Game 2 with a strained hamstring. Afflalo missed Game 1 with the injury, and his status for the rest of the series remains up in the air.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Durant was a one-man army in the opener, hitting on 13 of 22 shots from the field while going 12 of 15 from the free-throw line. Nuggets center Nene was Denver's best player in Game 1, scoring 22 points on 9-of-11 shooting while adding eight rebounds and a pair of steals.

KEY STATISTIC: 9-4 - Oklahoma City's edge in 3-pointers made in Game 1. The Thunder shot 47.4 percent from beyond the arc while limiting Denver to just 25 percent from long range.

TRENDS:

* Over is 8-3 in the last 11 meetings in Oklahoma City.
* Nuggets are 4-10 ATS in the last 14 meetings.
* Nuggets are 2-6 ATS in the last eight meetings in Oklahoma City.

LAST WORD: “I saw it come off the rim and got a hand on it,” Perkins said. “I didn’t question it.”

Memphis Grizzlies at San Antonio Spurs (-8.5, 197)

Memphis leads series 1-0

THE STORY: The drought is over. Memphis earned its first-ever playoff victory Sunday night and will look to make it two straight as the Grizzlies visit the top-seeded Spurs in Game 2 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series. Memphis had been 0-12 in its brief playoff history before stunning San Antonio 101-98 in Game 1.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBA TV, Fox Sports Southwest

ABOUT THE SPURS: Playing without injured swingman Manu Ginobili, the Spurs looked a step behind the invigorated Grizzlies for most of the night. San Antonio's second-leading scorer remains a question mark for Game 2 with an elbow injury. With the Spurs facing the possibility of falling down 0-2 heading back to Memphis, he may be pressed into action even if he isn't at full strength. San Antonio kept things interesting late in Sunday's game on back-to-back 3-pointers from Matt Bonner, but a defensive lapse left Shane Battier open for the go-ahead shot. Tony Parker had 20 points to lead the Spurs while Tim Duncan added 16 points and 13 rebounds.

ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES: Battier has plenty to celebrate these days. The forward hit the big 3-pointer to lead Memphis to its first postseason triumph, then became a father for the second time later in the day. The Grizzlies were led, as usual, by Zach Randolph and his 25-point, 14-rebound performance. Memphis rewarded the All-Star power forward by agreeing to terms on a four-year contract extension on Monday. Marc Gasol also had a sensational showing in his playoff debut, scoring 24 points on 9-of-10 shooting while adding nine rebounds. Memphis shot over 55 percent for the game while putting up 31 points in the pivotal fourth quarter.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Memphis PG Mike Conley racked up 10 assists Sunday, his first double-digit assist peformance since March 21. Parker was able to overcome a 4-of-16 shooting effort by making 12 of 16 free-throw attempts Sunday.

KEY STATISTIC: 47 - The number of foul shots attempted by San Antonio in Game 1, a season high. If Memphis gives up that many free throws in Game 2, the result may be far different.

TRENDS:

* Grizzlies are 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings.
* Grizzlies are 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings in San Antonio.
* Over is 7-1 in the last eight meetings in San Antonio.
* Over is 5-1 in the last six meetings.
* Underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings.
* Road team is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings.

LAST WORD: “What do you want to know about it? It counted for three. He caught it. He shot it. And he made it.” - Popovich on Battier's go-ahead shot.

New Orleans Hornets at Los Angeles Lakers (-11, 187.5)

New Orleans leads series 1-0

THE STORY: Los Angeles may have been too caught up in its own hype. The Lakers fell apart at home against New Orleans and had no answer for Chris Paul in a 109-100 loss in Game 1 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series. The Hornets never gave in to their bigger and more experienced foe despite the absence of power forward David West, who is out for the season with a knee injury. The Lakers have little time to waste if they want any chance of winning a third consecutive title and need a victory in Game 2 Wednesday night at Staples Center.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE LAKERS: Kobe Bryant did his part, which often is enough for the Lakers. This time, however, his 34 points went for naught as he got little support from Pau Gasol (eight points and no offensive rebounds) and the rest of the front line. Lamar Odom had 10 points but just one rebound. Ron Artest had a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Lakers will have guard Steve Blake back after he had chicken pox. “It’s not the end of the world,” coach Phil Jackson said. “Teams have good days and bad days. We probably had a bad day and they had a good day. Now we have to meet their energy.”

ABOUT THE HORNETS: Chris Paul might not be the league MVP, but don’t tell that to the Lakers. Paul was sensational and basically willed the Hornets to victory. He had 33 points on 11-for-18 shooting and added 14 assists, seven rebounds and four steals. Carl Landry scored 17 points and the New Orleans bench outscored the Lakers 39-21. The Hornets could be without 7-footer Aaron Gray, who had a season-high 12 points on 5-for-5 shooting but twisted his right ankle with 1:07 remaining in Sunday’s Game 1. Gray was in a walking boot but said he believes he can play Wednesday night.

WHO’S HOT/WHO’S NOT: Paul was the show for New Orleans. In addition to his scoring, he had seven rebounds and four steals. He also had eight of his 14 assists in the first quarter. Gasol had just eight points on 2-for-9 shooting (22.2 percent), his worst shooting game of the season.

KEY STATISTIC: New Orleans had just three turnovers, tying an NBA playoff record.

TRENDS:

* Hornets are 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Los Angeles.
* Over is 10-3 in the last 13 meetings in Los Angeles.
* Over is 20-8 in the last 28 meetings.
* Underdog is 15-4 ATS in the last 19 meetings.
* Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.

LAST WORD: “I’ve been here and done that before. We took the Lakers to seven games. That definitely gives me confidence and I was telling my teammates about the situation I was in two years ago.” – Landry on playing the Lakers in the playoffs when he was with Houston in 2009.

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:17 AM

NBA

Wednesday, April 20

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Pick 'n' roll: Wednesday's best NBA bets
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Memphis Grizzlies at San Antonio Spurs (-8.5)

After the first few days of the NBA Playoffs, it looks like we have a series on our hands in all eight cases, and Memphis-San Antonio is no exception.

The Grizzlies knocked off the Spurs 101-98 as 6.5-point underdogs in Game 1 Sunday afternoon. Shane Battier hit a go-ahead three with 23 seconds remaining and Memphis ended the contest on a 7-0 run.

“I know Beale Street will be a fun place tonight,” Battier told the Memphis Commercial Appeal, speaking of the famous Memphis drag. “Most of these guys don't understand the history and the heartache that the city has gone through.”

Of course, the Grizzlies should feel like they have a real chance to win the entire series—not just one game. The opener does not seem like a fluke, as Memphis split the regular-season series with San Antonio 2-2, and the Spurs needed overtime for one of their victories.

Manu Ginobili returns to action after missing Game 1 with an elbow injury. That will make it tough for the underdogs to take a 2-0 lead, but 8.5 points are a lot for a confident team like Memphis.

Pick: Grizzlies

New Orleans Hornets at Los Angeles Lakers (-11.5, 187.5)

The Spurs were not alone in catching the upset bug Sunday, as the Lakers succumbed to New Orleans 109-100. Turning in a near-flawless performance, the Hornets shot 51.9 percent from the floor and committed a mere three turnovers.

For L.A., on the other hand, Pau Gasol made only two of seven shots for eight points.

“I wasn't very sharp,” Gasol told the Los Angeles Times. “I couldn't get into a good rhythm. I didn't get myself going at all. It's up to me and get some energy out there and be aggressive and find ways to get that rhythm.”

Gasol and the rest of the team should benefit from the return of Steve Blake. The veteran guard missed Game 1 due to a bout with chicken pox, but he is listed as probable for Wednesday.

The Hornets, meanwhile, will likely be without backup center Aaron Gray (doubtful due to a sprained right ankle). Gray averaged just 3.1 points and 4.2 rebounds during the regular season, but he played 20 minutes in Game 1 and scored 12 points.

Pick: Lakers

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:20 AM

NHL
Long Sheet

Wednesday, April 20

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WASHINGTON (50-24-0-11, 111 pts.) at NY RANGERS (45-34-0-6, 96 pts.) - 4/20/2011, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY RANGERS are 15-24 ATS (-20.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 13-9-0 straight up against NY RANGERS over the last 3 seasons
11 of 20 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.4 Units)

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PHILADELPHIA (49-24-0-12, 110 pts.) at BUFFALO (44-31-0-10, 98 pts.) - 4/20/2011, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 41-46 ATS (-24.6 Units) after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 174-121 ATS (+24.8 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.
BUFFALO is 13-8 ATS (+21.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 14-7 ATS (+21.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BUFFALO is 15-19 ATS (-6.9 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
BUFFALO is 8-13 ATS (-7.4 Units) in home games revenging a loss versus opponent this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 9-6 (+1.0 Units) against the spread versus BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 9-6-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
11 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+6.9 Units)

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PITTSBURGH (51-26-0-8, 110 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (47-27-0-11, 105 pts.) - 4/20/2011, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 47-38 ATS (-2.4 Units) in all games this season.
TAMPA BAY is 22-18 ATS (-5.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
PITTSBURGH is 51-34 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 12-7 ATS (+19.9 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
PITTSBURGH is 25-19 ATS (+48.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 9-6-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.5 Units)

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ANAHEIM (48-32-0-5, 101 pts.) at NASHVILLE (46-28-0-11, 103 pts.) - 4/20/2011, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NASHVILLE is 94-78 ATS (+194.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ANAHEIM is 48-37 ATS (+86.4 Units) in all games this season.
ANAHEIM is 25-16 ATS (+41.6 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
ANAHEIM is 21-11 ATS (+32.7 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
ANAHEIM is 22-19 ATS (+44.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
ANAHEIM is 39-36 ATS (+84.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
ANAHEIM is 12-6 ATS (+18.7 Units) when playing with 2 days rest this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NASHVILLE is 9-6 (+3.4 Units) against the spread versus ANAHEIM over the last 3 seasons
NASHVILLE is 9-6-0 straight up against ANAHEIM over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.1 Units)

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DETROIT (50-25-0-10, 110 pts.) at PHOENIX (43-29-0-13, 99 pts.) - 4/20/2011, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 11-14 ATS (-14.3 Units) after a 3 game unbeaten streak over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 96-78 ATS (-31.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 20-14 ATS (+2.7 Units) revenging a home loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 44-34 ATS (+86.5 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 47-46 ATS (+107.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 18-12 ATS (+30.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 25-15 ATS (+8.4 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 14-8 (+0.4 Units) against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 14-8-0 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
13 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+7.5 Units)

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:23 AM

NHL
Short Sheet

Wednesday, April 20

Eastern Conference Playoffs - Best of 7 - Game 4 - WAS 2-1
WASHINGTON at NY RANGERS, 7:05 PM ET VERSUS
WASHINGTON: 8-1 SU Away off road loss
NY RANGERS: 7-18 SU off home win by 1 goal

Eastern Conference Playoffs - Best of 7 - Game 4 - PHI 2-1
PHILADELPHIA at BUFFALO, 7:35 PM ET
PHILADELPHIA: 10-5 SU as a road underdog of +100 to +150
BUFFALO: 3-8 SU at home with same season revenge

Eastern Conference Playoffs - Best of 7 - Game 4 - PIT 2-1
PITTSBURGH at TAMPA BAY, 7:05 PM ET (TC)
PITTSBURGH: 32-18 SU off win or tie
TAMPA BAY: 13-3 Over off home loss

Western Conference Playoffs - Best of 7 - Game 4 - NAS 2-1
ANAHEIM at NASHVILLE, 8:05 PM ET
ANAHEIM: 12-4 Under off BB Overs
NASHVILLE: 82-46 Under off home win scoring 4+ goals

Western Conference Playoffs - Best of 7 - Game 4 - DET 3-0
DETROIT at PHOENIX, 10:35 PM ET VERSUS
DETROIT: 17-7 SU as road favorite
PHOENIX: 9-24 SU at home vs. Detroit

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:24 AM

NHL
Write-Up

Wednesday, April 20

Rangers have had man advantage for 18:33 in this series and scored only once. Home side won all three games in Washington-Ranger series. Caps won six of their last eight games overall; under is 16-6-1 in its last 23 games. Under is 8-3-1 in last 12 Ranger games, 4-0-1 in last five series tilts. Caps are 4-2 in their last six visits to Madison Square Garden.

Nashville outshot Ducks 37-16 in Game 3 win, despite playing 9:52 one man down; Anaheim lost six of last eight games vs Nashville. Ducks are 6-7 in last 13 games in this building. Under is 7-4-1 in last twelve series games. Anaheim won 11 of last 16 games, six of their last nine road games. Nashville won 12 of its last 14 tilts, eight of last ten at home.

Six of seven Buffalo-Philly games this year went over total; Sabres won five of last seven games overall, with five of the seven going over total. Flyers lost six of their last nine games, but scored nine goals in last two games, after being shut out in Game 1. After going 1-15 on power play (25:11) in first two series games, Philly was 1-3 in Game 3. Flyers won six of last eight visits to this building. Home team has had at least 4:09 more in power play time in all three series games.

Montreal won eight of last eleven games vs Boston, allowing 11 goals in last 12 series wins- road team has won all three series games. Montreal won five of its last seven games overall. Boston is 0-11 (17:59) when a man up in series; Canadiens are 1-12 (16:11). Under is 9-4 in last 13 series games, 8-3-1 in last 12 Boston games, 7-2-1 in last ten Montreal tilts. Bruins lost four of their last five games in this building.

Detroit can sweep Phoenix here and get valuable rest time. Red Wings won five of last six visits to this building, which will be emotional since this could be Coyotes' last-ever game in Phoenix, given their rumored move back to Winnipeg. Eight of last nine Detroit games went over total. Coyotes lost seven of their last nine games overall- they're 6-6 in last 12 home games. Detroit outscored Coyotes 5-0 in first period of last two games.

**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:26 AM

NHL

Wednesday, April 20

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. NY RANGERS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games on the road
Washington is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games on the road
NY Rangers are 7-2 SU in their last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of the NY Rangers last 12 games

7:30 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. BUFFALO
Philadelphia is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Buffalo
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games when playing Buffalo
Buffalo is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Buffalo16-7-1 SU in its last 24 games when playing at home against Philadelphia

7:30 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. TAMPA BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Pittsburgh's last 13 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Pittsburgh is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
Tampa Bay is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh

8:30 PM
ANAHEIM vs. NASHVILLE
Anaheim is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Nashville
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Anaheim's last 6 games when playing on the road against Nashville
Nashville is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Anaheim
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Nashville's last 7 games at home

10:30 PM
DETROIT vs. PHOENIX
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Phoenix is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 5 games

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**Udog** · 04-20-2011, 07:30 AM

NHL

Wednesday, April 20

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What bettors need to know: Wednesday's NHL Playoff action
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Washington Capitals at New York Rangers (-107, 5)

Washington leads series 2-1

THE STORY: The Washington Capitals have not had an easy time thus far in their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the eighth-seeded New York Rangers. They can expect the crowd at Madison Square Garden to make things even more difficult in Game 4 on Wednesday thanks to coach Bruce Boudreau's comments about the legendary arena during a radio interview with a Washington station on Monday. The remarks come at a most peculiar time as the Capitals failed to put a stranglehold on the series Sunday, dropping a 3-2 decision in New York. The chance to even the series is enough to have the Garden faithful in a frenzy at the opening faceoff, but Boudreau definitely has given them added incentive.

ABOUT THE RANGERS: New York rolled up its sleeves and fought tooth and nail before coming away with a 3-2 victory it desperately needed Sunday. The Rangers had the lead twice but let it slip away before Brandon Dubinsky scored a fluke goal during a 4-on-4 situation with 1:39 remaining in the third period. The club finally broke through on the power play, going 1-for-7, and had what could be called an offensive explosion after scoring once on 47 shots over the first two games of the series. New York is 7-1-1 in its last nine contests at home.

ABOUT THE CAPITALS: Boudreau did not need to give his team any added pressure, considering its recent flops when owning a series lead in the postseason. The top-seeded Capitals battled back from a pair of deficits Sunday, but allowing the decisive goal late in the third period has the potential to be a series-changing moment. Washington needs to stay out of the penalty box after giving New York seven power-play chances Sunday.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Washington captain Alex Ovechkin recorded a goal and an assist in Game 3, giving him a team-leading four points in the series. The superstar has collected 44 points in 31 career postseason games. New York's Marian Gaborik is mired in a 12-game goalless drought and has gone 10 playoff contests without a tally dating to Game 4 of the 2007 Western Conference quarterfinals against Anaheim while with Minnesota. Brian Boyle led all players with nine shots on goal Sunday and captain Chris Drury won 15-of-19 faceoffs.

Philadelphia Flyers at Buffalo Sabres (-119, 5.5)

Philadelphia leads series 2-1

THE STORY: The Philadelphia Flyers have certainly enjoyed their trips to western New York. The Atlantic Division champion Flyers boast a 6-0-2 mark in Buffalo and will look to improve on that impressive mark on Wednesday when they meet the seventh-seeded Sabres in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinals series. Coach Peter Laviolette's club regained home-ice advantage in the series by skating to a 4-2 triumph in Game 3 on Monday. Although Jeff Carter collected a goal and an assist, Brian Boucher was the star of the show by turning aside 35 shots while making his first start of this year's playoffs. Boucher is expected to be between the pipes on Wednesday.

ABOUT THE SABRES: After stopping all 35 shots in Game 1, reigning Vezina Trophy winner Ryan Miller has struggled in his last two outings. The Olympic netminder stopped 22 shots in Game 3. Game 1 hero Patrick Kaleta suffered an upper-body injury on Monday after a collision with defenseman Braydon Coburn in the first period. Defenseman Jordan Leopold returned after a 10-game absence and had two shots on goal in nearly 15 minutes of action. Drew Stafford netted a power-play goal and had a team-high six shots, Nathan Gerbe also tallied and defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani notched a pair of assists on Monday.

ABOUT THE FLYERS: Former Sabres captain Daniel Briere scored his 37th career postseason goal and Nikolay Zherdev and defenseman Kimmo Timonen also tallied on Monday. Boucher improved to 6-1 in his postseason career against the Sabres. The 34-year-old Rhode Island native used his head - literally - in the third period after he intentially pulled off his mask to stop play during a 5-on-3 power play. The "creative" move stopped Buffalo's momentum, as Boucher used the rules to his advantage. "The mask was loose, and I felt it was kind of unsafe because the mask was kind of moving around on my face,” Boucher said. “I know the rules. Otherwise, I don’t know if I would’ve done it." Boucher was the team's starter in Game 3, Michael Leighton served as the backup while Russian rookie Sergei Bobrovsky was in street clothes. Bobrovski was the team's starter for much of the regular season as well as in Games 1 and 2.

WHO'S HOT/WHO’S NOT: Briere continues to haunt his former team. With his second tally in as many contests, Briere now has four goals and three assists in his last five games. Buffalo center Tyler Ennis, who notched an assist on Monday, has one goal and four assists in his last five contests.

Pittsburgh Penguins at Tampa Bay Lightning (-150, 5)

Pittsburgh leads series 2-1

THE STORY: Both the Pittsburgh Penguins, who own a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, and Tampa Bay Lightning will be forced to make a lineup change for Game 4 of their series at the St. Pete Times Forum on Wednesday. Pittsburgh will be without Chris Kunitz, who was suspended one game after taking a page out of teammate Matt Cooke's book and delivering a vicious elbow to the head of Simon Gagne on Monday. Kunitz was third on the Penguins in scoring during the regular season but has just one goal thus far in the series. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay's Steve Downie also received a one-game ban for leaving his feet and hitting Penguins defenseman Ben Lovejoy high with a check.

ABOUT THE LIGHTNING: With the 3-2 loss in Game 3 on Monday, Tampa Bay fell to 1-5 at home in the postseason since its Game 7 win over Calgary in the 2004 Stanley Cup Final. The Lightning failed to score at even strength as their two goals were scored on the power play by Martin St. Louis. The All-Star's second tally at 2:12 of the third period forged a 2-2 tie, but Pittsburgh scored 31 seconds later to take the lead for good.

ABOUT THE PENGUINS: Max Talbot and Arron Asham scored 45 seconds apart to give Pittsburgh a 2-0 lead just 6:31 into Monday's contest. Asham has been a surprising offensive force in the series as he leads Penguins forwards with two goals and three points after entering the series with just 13 points in 52 career playoff games. Tyler Kennedy snapped a 2-2 tie early in the third for Pittsburgh, which improved to 10-1 in Game Threes since 2008.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Penguins defensemen Kris Letang and Brooks Orpik have notched three assists apiece in the series. Letang, Kennedy and blue-liner Zbynek Michalek each registered five shots on goal Monday, combining for half of Pittsburgh's total. St. Louis has scored three of Tampa Bay's seven goals, all on the power play. St. Louis, Gagne and defenseman Eric Brewer lead the Lightning with four points apiece.

Anaheim Ducks at Nashville Predators (-144, 5)

Nashville leads series 2-1

THE STORY: Nashville's much maligned offense has been the difference so far in its Western Conference quarterfinal series with the Anaheim Ducks. The Predators will look to keep those goals coming as they play host to the Ducks in Game 4 of their best-of-seven showdown Wednesday night. Nashville leads the series 2-1, and has done it with offense after carving out a solid regular-season showing on airtight defense and goaltending.

ABOUT THE PREDATORS: Nashville scored the second-fewest goals of the 16 teams to qualify for this year's Stanley Cup tournament. That hasn't mattered so far in Round 1, as the Predators have scored 11 times in three games against the Ducks. They preserved home-ice advantage with a 4-3 victory in Game 3 on Sunday night. Mike Fisher was the hero for the second time in the series, scoring the game winner midway through the third period. Nashville dominated the game from the outset, outshooting the Ducks 37-16. Fisher leads the Predators with three goals and five points in three games, atoning for a disapointing showing after coming to Nashville in a deadline trade with the Ottawa Senators.

ABOUT THE DUCKS: Anaheim didn't play its best in Game 3, but managed to stay in the game for 2 1/2 periods thanks to timely goaltending from Ray Emery and another strong performance from the ageless Teemu Selanne. Emery finished with 33 saves on the night while Selanne had two goals 30 seconds apart in the second period to erase a 2-0 deficit. The Ducks have taken advantage of their power-play opportunities - scoring four times on 12 man advantages - but need to be more disciplined. They've given Nashville 16 power plays in three games, the most of any team so far in the playoffs. The Predators have converted four of them, including their first of the night in Game 3.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Fisher is well on his way to surpassing his effort during the regular season, when he had just five goals in 27 games after joining the Predators. Selanne continues to amaze at age 40, leading the Ducks with four goals and looking as fit as ever.

Detroit Red Wings at Phoenix Coyotes (+121, 5.5)

Detroit leads series 3-0

THE STORY: The third-seeded Detroit Red Wings go for the sweep Wednesday when they take on the Phoenix Coyotes in Game 4 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series at Jobing.com Arena. Detroit is looking to make quick work of Phoenix after needing seven games to dispatch the Coyotes in the first round last year. The Red Wings trailed after the first period of the series opener but have been dominant ever since, save for a third-period scare in Game 2 when the Coyotes climbed within a goal after trailing 4-0. Detroit has had little difficulty in the desert, winning four straight playoff games at Phoenix.

ABOUT THE COYOTES: Phoenix kept Pavel Datsyuk off the scoresheet Monday but could not control the rest of the Red Wings early in periods as Detroit scored within the first three minutes of each session en route to a 4-2 triumph and 3-0 series lead. Ilya Bryzgalov has been shaky and the defense in front of him has been just as sketchy as Phoenix has allowed the first three goals in each of the last two contests. The only thing working for the Coyotes is their power play, which has accounted for five of the team's seven goals in the series and all of the tallies in the last two matches. Defenseman Ed Jovanovski was in the lineup after going down early in the second period of Game 2 with an upper body injury.

ABOUT THE RED WINGS: Detroit took the white-clad crowd out of the game early as defenseman Ruslan Salei and Drew Miller scored 44 seconds apart to give the Red Wings a 2-0 lead just 2:41 into the first period. Valtteri Filppula increased the advantage at 2:50 of the second and Johan Franzen tallied 45 seconds into the third. About the only area in which Detroit is struggling is the penalty kill as it was shorthanded only three times Monday but allowed two goals. The Red Wings have won 56 consecutive playoff games in which they have scored at least four times.

WHO'S HOT/WHO'S NOT: Datsyuk, Franzen and defenseman Brian Rafalski have two goals apiece, accounting for half of Detroit's total in the series. Everyone tried to get in on the offense in Game 3 as only two players failed to register a shot on goal. Captain Shane Doan, defenseman Keith Yandle and Radim Vrbata each have four points for the Coyotes, who have not scored at even strength since the 7:32 mark of the third period of Game 1, a span of 132 minutes, 22 seconds. Blue-liner Adrian Aucoin is minus-4 on a team that does not have a player with a plus rating.

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Announcement

Wednesday's Trends and Indexes - 4/20 (NBA, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

Wednesday's Trends and Indexes - 4/20 (NBA, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

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