Announcement

**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 08:35 AM

Tuesday’s betting tips: Gophers still cashing as underdogs

Who’s hot

NBA: Phoenix has covered in seven of its last eight.

NBA: Cleveland is 9-4 against the spread in its last 13 meetings with Philadelphia.

NHL: Buffalo has won four straight and six of its last seven when favored.

NHL: The New York Rangers is 26-10 in its last 36 games against sub-.500 teams.

NCAAB: Minnesota has covered in seven straight games and its last seven when set as an underdog.

Who’s not

NBA: The over is 1-6 in Oklahoma City’s last seven overall.

NBA: Memphis is 1-6 against the spread in its last seven overall.

NHL: Minnesota is 4-10 in its last 14 home games.

NHL: New Jersey has lost four of its last five.

NCAAB: Washington is 1-6 against the spread in its last seven neutral site games as a favorite.

Key stat

17 – The UMass Minutemen crawled back from a 17-point deficit in the second half to beat Drexel and advance to Tuesday’s NIT semifinal matchup with Stanford. The Minutemen, who have now covered in four of their last five, are set as 2.5-point underdogs against the Cardinal.

Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers – Iguodala is listed as a game-time decision for Tuesday’s matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Philly’s swingman has been dealing with left knee tendinitis for about a month.

Game of the day

Houston Rockets at Dallas Rockets (-6.5, 193.5)

Notable quotable

"If you guys are looking for a story, I'm not going to give you one. I can't sit here and criticize his (coach Mike Brown's) decisions. I'm not leading this ballclub. That's not something I can afford to do. I have to have his back. I've had his back the whole season. I can't start doing something crazy now. It makes no sense." – Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant after being benched in Sunday’s loss to Memphis. Bryant scored just 18 points in the loss as the Lakers dropped the cash for the fifth time in six games. Los Angeles is set as a 6-point favorite at Golden State on Tuesday.

Notes and tips

New York Knicks forward Amare Stoudemire is out indefinitely with a bulging disk in his lower back. The team announced his status Monday after an MRI revealed the damage. Stoudemire is slated to undergo non-surgical treatment for the injury followed by rehabilitation, the Knicks said. Stoudemire was originally injured during the second half of Saturday's win against Detroit. The 29-year-old Stoudemire is averaging 17.6 points and 8.0 rebounds in his second season with the Knicks.

After Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love recorded at least 30 points and 20 rebounds for the third time in a game this season, oddsmakers started to take notice. Love, who leads the NBA averaging 30.9 points over the month of March has seen his odds drop from 25/1 last week at Sportsbook.com to 12/1 this week.

Suspended New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton has had discussions with former boss and mentor Bill Parcells about becoming the Saints’ interim coach, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on Monday, citing league sources. Payton and Parcells have reportedly spoken on a couple of occasions since NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended the Saints coach for the year following his involvement in the team's bounty program. The two worked together with the Dallas Cowboys in 2003-05 - when Payton was the assistant head coach under Parcells. Payton's suspension will take effect on April 1, but reports also surfaced later Monday that Payton may be able to coach during an appeal process, if he chooses that route.

**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 08:37 AM

Armadillo: Tuesday's six-pack

-- Frank Martin got a $12M, six-year contract from South Carolina; from what you read, he didn't get along with Kansas State's AD. The AD will be looking for work soon if he doesn't strike gold replacing Martin.

-- Astros pitcher Bud Norris has a sore triceps muscle; he thinks he hurt his arm when he slept awkwardly on it. Outstanding.

-- Nick Saban got a contract extension, will now make $5.62M a year at a job he took because he once chose Daunte Culpepper over Drew Brees as the quarterback for the Dolphins, his last job.

-- Sean Payton has talked to Bill Parcells about coaching the Saints during Payton's suspension. Now that would be some good theater.

-- A woman was disqualified from Miss Universe Canada pageant after it was discovered she was born a male. Alrighty now........

-- Knicks fired Mike D'Antoni in large part because Carmelo Anthony did not always give a great effort; Anthony is making $280,584.45 a game this season. Effort should never, ever, ever be an issue.

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

Armadillo: Tuesday's List of 13: Nobody asked me, but........

13) What does it say that Tim Tebow did his introductory press conference in New Jersey while the Jets honchos were away at NFL league meetings?

12) MLB Network is tremendous in March; exhibition games most every day. Good stuff. I buy the Extra Innings package, so I won’t watch MLB Network much once the season starts, but it is great in the spring.

11) I’m not thrilled about two teams playing real baseball games in Japan, a week before everyone else starts. Takes a little bit away from Opening Day, especially since my A’s are playing over there.

10) Lakers-Spurs haven’t played yet this season; they meet three times between now and the end of the regular season in four weeks.

9) Think Dick Cheney went through normal protocol for a heart transplant patient, or was he pushed to top of the list? I don’t want to know the answer to that question.

8) Was flipping through channels the other day and saw a clip of Bob Davie addressing the crowd at a New Mexico basketball game; had forgotten that he’s the Lobos’ new football coach. I’ll miss him on TV; he’s a likeable guy.

7) Rough news for the Royals, with closer Soria having Tommy John surgery. Looks like they might put Aaron Crow back in the bullpen to fill that void.

6) NY State parks lowered the prices to play golf on Long Island; anytime the price is lowered on anything these days, it’s a newsworthy event.

5) Someone said the NASCAR race at Bristol two weeks ago only drew 90,000 fans to a track that seats 160,000; is the economy that bad? If I ever go to a NASCAR race, I’d like to see the Bristol night race.

4) Did I read right that The Hunger Games took in $155M at the box office this weekend? Wow; wonder how much overpriced popcorn was sold at all those theaters?

3) I know AJ Burnett is hurt, but if you’re a Pirate fan and you see your Opening Day starter is Erik Bedard, doesn’t that make you a little queasy?

2) Need to read more about this Frank Martin-to-South Carolina story; why the rush to get out of the Little Apple? Last time the Gamecocks were good in hoop was when Eddie Fogler was there and they used to get upset as high seeds in the first round of the NCAAs every year.

1) More than any other year, cannot wait to see the NFL schedule, who they assign the primetime games to, and all that. That will be worth a couple days of material here.

**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 09:01 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

Washington vs. Minnesota
The Golden Gophers look to build on their 7-0 ATS record in their last 7 games as an underdog. Minnesota is the pick (+1) according to Dunkel, which has the Golden Gophers favored by 2 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+1). Here are all of today's picks as well as this weekend's Final Four selections.

TUESDAY, MARCH 27

Game 775-776: Massachusetts vs. Stanford (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Massachusetts 63.668; Stanford 67.580
Dunkel Line: Stanford by 4; 155
Vegas Line: Stanford by 2 1/2; 149 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Stanford (-2 1/2); Over

Game 777-778: Washington vs. Minnesota (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 67.519; Minnesota 68.925
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 2 1/2; 138
Vegas Line: Washington by 1; 143
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+1); Under

SATURDAY, MARCH 31

Game 817-818: Louisville vs. Kentucky (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Louisville 70.205; Kentucky 80.321
Dunkel Line: Kentucky by 10; 142
Vegas Line: Kentucky by 8 1/2; 137 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kentucky (-8 1/2); Over

Game 819-820: Ohio State vs. Kansas (8:45 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Ohio State 76.398; Kansas 75.399
Dunkel Line: Ohio State by 1; 133
Vegas Line: Ohio State by 2 1/2; 137
Dunkel Pick: Kansas (+2 1/2); Under

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Tuesday, March 27

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MASSACHUSETTS (25 - 11) vs. STANFORD (24 - 11) - 3/27/2012, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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MINNESOTA (22 - 14) vs. WASHINGTON (24 - 10) - 3/27/2012, 9:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in March games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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Saturday, March 31

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LOUISVILLE (30 - 9) vs. KENTUCKY (36 - 2) - 3/31/2012, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KENTUCKY is 65-43 ATS (+17.7 Units) in March games since 1997.
LOUISVILLE is 22-13 ATS (+7.7 Units) in all games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 22-13 ATS (+7.7 Units) in all lined games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all neutral court games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in March games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) on Saturday games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) when playing on a neutral court this season.
LOUISVILLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games in non-conference games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 44-26 ATS (+15.4 Units) revenging a road loss vs opponent since 1997.
LOUISVILLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all tournament games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LOUISVILLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.
KENTUCKY is 6-13 ATS (-8.3 Units) when the total is 130 to 139.5 this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
KENTUCKY is 2-1 against the spread versus LOUISVILLE over the last 3 seasons
KENTUCKY is 3-0 straight up against LOUISVILLE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OHIO ST (31 - 7) vs. KANSAS (31 - 6) - 3/31/2012, 8:45 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OHIO ST is 165-129 ATS (+23.1 Units) as a favorite since 1997.
OHIO ST is 189-147 ATS (+27.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
OHIO ST is 122-89 ATS (+24.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS is 1-0 against the spread versus OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS is 1-0 straight up against OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NCAAB
Short Sheet

Saturday, March 31

LOUISVILLE vs. KENTUCKY, 6:05 PM - NCAA Tournament - Final Four - Superdome - New Orleans, LA
LOUISVILLE: 8-0 ATS on neutral court
KENTUCKY: 9-1 Under on neutral floor if total is 130 to 139.5

OHIO STATE vs. KANSAS, 8:45 PM - NCAA Tournament - Final Four - Superdome - New Orleans, LA
OHIO STATE: 18-7 ATS Away w/ same season revenge
KANSAS: 6-13 ATS off double digit win

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

NCAAB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, March 27

UMass should have crowd edge here, being only team east of the Great Lakes, but Stanford did play two games here Thanksgiving weekend, as they beat Oklahoma State, lost to Syracuse; Minutemen won six of last seven games, losing to St Bonaventure by 4 in A-14 tournament- they won three road games to get here, with wins at Miss State (2OT)/Seton Hall/Drexel. Stanford won three home games to get here; they're 3-6 in last nine games away from Maples; Cardinal has good size/depth. Six of last eight UMass games and last six Stanford games went over the total.

Washington is talented, erratic team that is 19-5 in last 24 games after a 5-5 start; they won three home games to get here, are 3-3 in last six tilts away from home. Huskies are 0-4 vs teams in top 40; they won by 21 over Big Dozen's Northwestern 11 days ago, a team Minnesota was 2-1 against this season. Gophers beat Pac-12 doormat USC by 15 earlier in season; they've won five of last six games, losing to Michigan in OT in conference tournament- they won three road games to get here. Huskies want to run; think Minnesota will run with them. Washington shoots a putrid 62.4% from foul line, which could hurt in a close game.

NCAAB

Tuesday, March 27

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
MASSACHUSETTS vs. STANFORD
No trends available
Stanford is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Stanford's last 5 games

9:25 PM
MINNESOTA vs. WASHINGTON
No trends available
Washington is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games

Saturday, March 31

6:09 PM
LOUISVILLE vs. KENTUCKY
No trends available
Kentucky is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing Louisville
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Kentucky's last 11 games when playing Louisville

8:49 PM
OHIO STATE vs. KANSAS
No trends available
Kansas is 13-1 SU in its last 14 games

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NCAAB

Tuesday, March 27

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College funds: Tuesday's best NIT bets
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Massachusetts Minutemen vs. Stanford Cardinal (-2.5, 150)

After winning three straight road games to reach the NIT semifinals, Massachusetts won't be traveling far to face third-seeded Stanford at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

The fifth-seeded Minutemen have won six of their last seven games, with the only loss coming to St. Bonaventure in the Atlantic-10 tournament semifinals. Stanford has been home for its three NIT wins, including a dominant 84-56 victory over Nevada last Wednesday.

Like Stanford, the Minutemen opened the season strong before slumping midway through league play.

Massachusetts, which finished tied for fifth in the Atlantic-10, has reached the NIT final four for the third time in school history with wins over Mississippi State, Seton Hall and Drexel. Point guard Chaz Williams, a Brooklyn native, is averaging 22.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists in three NIT games.

The Minutemen lost forwards Sampson Carter and Cady Lalanne to season-ending injuries, but their frontline remains strong behind Raphiael Putney (10.2 points, 5.9 rebounds) and center Sean Carter (8.1 points, 6.5 boards).

Pick: Minutemen

Washington Huskies vs. Minnesota Gophers (1, 143)

After being upset in the Pac-12 tournament, the top-seeded Huskies have averaged 82.7 points in three straight NIT wins. The sixth-seeded Gophers, who are the second team in NIT history to win three straight road games to reach the semifinals, gave Middle Tennessee only its second home loss of the season in the third round.

Washington features two of the conference’s top players in Tony Wroten and Terrence Ross, and the Huskies are making their second trip to New York’s Madison Square Garden this season.

Ross has taken his game to another level in the NIT, averaging 26.3 points in three games. The sophomore guard is drawing interest from NBA scouts while shooting 51.9 percent from the field in the NIT, including 40 percent (12 of 30) from 3-point range.

The Huskies rank fifth nationally with an average of 40 rebounds, but they’ll be tested by Minnesota, which ranks fourth in the Big Ten in rebounding margin (plus-4.2) and leads the league in blocked shots (4.9).

Pick: Gophers

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NCAAB

Tuesday, March 27

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Book report: NCAA tournament favorites, overs bash sportsbooks
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Congratulations, bettors – you’re winning March Madness.

“It hasn’t been a great tournament for us,” said Jay Kornegay, executive director of Las Vegas Hotel & Casino SuperBook. “The tournament is a great event and is usually great for us, just not this year.”

Since the opening Thursday, favorites are 34-25-1 ATS in the NCAA tournament. The chalk covered in three of the four Elite Eight games, with three of the weekend’s games also going over the total.

When favorites and the over start cashing, so do parlays, and that’s what hurt the LVH.

“We want Cinderellas, but it’s been pretty chalk,” Kornegay said. “You look at the ticket count, and it looks like we’ve got even action, but then you start looking at how many parlays cashed.”

The betting crowd at the MGM Mirage sportsbook also was fired up about Sunday’s results, sportsbook manager Jeff Stoneback said.

“Anytime you get the favorites coupled with the over, it’s not good for us,” Stoneback said. “For example, it looked like the Baylor-Kentucky game was going to go under. But then they had a flurry at the end that had the crowd in here going crazy. You can always tell how we’re doing just by the way the crowd is reacting.”

Futures Report

Kornegay and his staff were spot on last April when they posted odds on who’d win this year’s NCAA tournament. Kentucky, Louisville, Ohio State and Kansas were among the top 10 favorites.

At the LVH, Kentucky got as high as 7/1 to win the title. Ohio State and Kansas got as high as 12/1, and Louisville got up to 40/1.

Kornegay took a “good handful of bets” on Louisville at 40/1, but nothing too big.

“We’re in pretty good shape [on futures],” said Kornegay. “We had some exposure on some trendy teams like Baylor, Florida State and Vandy, but there aren’t any bombs out there.”

Odds/Ends

Ticket count at the MGM Mirage on the opening Thursday of the NCAA tournament was up 40 percent, according to Stoneback.
Kentucky is two wins away from becoming only the third team since at least 1998 to win the national title with a losing record against the spread. The Wildcats are 15-21-1 ATS. Louisville is 22-13-1 ATS; Ohio State 20-13, and Kansas 18-17-1 against the spread.
Kentucky coach John Calipari commented to reporters about the difference a raised floor like the one at Superdome this weekend makes for shooters. “That makes it hard,” Calipari said. “So a team that doesn't shoot a whole lot of threes has an advantage."

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**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 09:28 AM

NBA
Dunkel

Minnesota at Memphis
The Timberwolves look to build on their 8-2 ATS record in their last 10 games as an underdog of 5 to 10 1/2 points. Minnesota is the pick (+5 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Grizzlies favored by only 3 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+5 1/2). Here are all of today's picks

TUESDAY, MARCH 27

Game 761-762: Cleveland at Philadelphia (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 110.369; Philadelphia 123.913
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 13 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 763-764: Minnesota at Memphis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 116.069; Memphis 119.698
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 3 1/2; 199
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 5 1/2; 201
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+5 1/2); Under

Game 765-766: Atlanta at Milwaukee (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 118.723; Milwaukee 121.288
Dunkel Line & Total: Milwaukee by 2 1/2; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Milwaukee by 1 1/2; 198 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Milwaukee (-1 1/2); Under

Game 767-768: Houston at Dallas (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 118.464; Dallas 119.986
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 1 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas by 7; 193
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+7); Over

Game 769-770: San Antonio at Phoenix (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 125.777; Phoenix 122.020
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 4; 197
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 2; 202
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-2); Under

Game 771-772: Oklahoma City at Portland (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 122.020; Portland 119.417
Dunkel Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 2 1/2; 203
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 4 1/2; 198 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Portland (+4 1/2); Over

Game 773-774: LA Lakers at Golden State (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Lakers 123.028; Golden State 115.753
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Lakers by 7 1/2; 201
Vegas Line & Total: LA Lakers by 5 1/2; 197 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Lakers (-5 1/2); Over

NBA
Long Sheet

Tuesday, March 27

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CLEVELAND (17 - 29) at PHILADELPHIA (27 - 22) - 3/27/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 4-4 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
CLEVELAND is 5-3 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MINNESOTA (24 - 26) at MEMPHIS (26 - 21) - 3/27/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 81-59 ATS (+16.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 42-27 ATS (+12.3 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) off an upset win as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 43-22 ATS (+18.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) as an underdog this season.
MINNESOTA is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in road games after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 21-12 ATS (+7.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 7-3 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 9-1 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
8 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ATLANTA (30 - 20) at MILWAUKEE (22 - 27) - 3/27/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in a home game where where the total is between 195 and 199.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 138-175 ATS (-54.5 Units) in home games second half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 10-6 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 10-6 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
11 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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HOUSTON (27 - 23) at DALLAS (28 - 22) - 3/27/2012, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 85-65 ATS (+13.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 124-92 ATS (+22.8 Units) when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
DALLAS is 53-30 ATS (+20.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 31-14 ATS (+15.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 84-43 ATS (+36.7 Units) in road games after allowing 105 points or more since 1996.
DALLAS is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home games in March games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 6-3 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 7-2 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SAN ANTONIO (33 - 14) at PHOENIX (25 - 24) - 3/27/2012, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 63-38 ATS (+21.2 Units) second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in March games this season.
PHOENIX is 67-47 ATS (+15.3 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 39-21 ATS (+15.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 28-18 ATS (+8.2 Units) in all games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 570-493 ATS (+27.7 Units) as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) second half of the season this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 142-106 ATS (+25.4 Units) in March games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 116-82 ATS (+25.8 Units) on Tuesday nights since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 248-192 ATS (+36.8 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
PHOENIX is 22-38 ATS (-19.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 9-3 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 7-5 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
9 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OKLAHOMA CITY (37 - 12) at PORTLAND (23 - 26) - 3/27/2012, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 129-104 ATS (+14.6 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 67-48 ATS (+14.2 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) in road games on Tuesday nights since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
PORTLAND is 5-5 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 6-5 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
6 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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LA LAKERS (30 - 19) at GOLDEN STATE (20 - 27) - 3/27/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAKERS are 62-78 ATS (-23.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 52-66 ATS (-20.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 18-32 ATS (-17.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 107-68 ATS (+32.2 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs since 1996.
LA LAKERS are 79-49 ATS (+25.1 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 6-3 against the spread versus LA LAKERS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 8-1 straight up against GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, March 27

Hot Teams
-- 76ers are 8-1 vs spread as home favorite of 8+ points.
-- Minnesota is 12-4 as road underdog of 4+ points.
-- Hawks won six of their last seven games.
-- Rockets won three of last four games; they're 5-3 as road underdogs of 6+ points. Dallas won nine of last twelve home games, but covered just two of last eight at home.
-- Phoenix is 12-3 vs spread since All-Star break. Spurs won seven of last eight games, but are 2-7 as road favorite.
-- Oklahoma City won four of its last five games- they're 5-8-1 as road favorites of 3+ points. Blazers won three of last four at home.
-- Lakers won/covered four of their last five road games.

Cold Teams
-- Cavaliers lost six of last seven games; they're 13-8 as road dogs.
-- Grizzlies lost five of their last seven games.
-- Bucks lost three of their last four games.
-- Warriors lost four of their last six home games.

Wear-and-Tear
-- Cavaliers: 3rd game/5 nites. 76ers: 3rd game/5 nites.
-- T'wolves: 3rd game/5 nites. Grizzlies: 3rd game/4 nites.
-- Hawks: 7th game/10 nites. Bucks: 5th game/6 nites.
-- Rockets: 3rd game/4 nites. Mavericks: Had last two nites off.
-- Spurs: 4th game/5 nites. Suns: 3rd game/5 nites.
-- Thunder: 3rd game/5 nites. Trailblazers: 4th game/6 nites.
-- Lakers: 3rd game/5 nites. Warriors: 12th game/18 nites.

Totals
-- Over is 6-3-1 in Cleveland's last ten road games.
-- Four of last five Minnesota games went over total.
-- Six of last seven Milwaukee home games went over.
-- 11 of last 14 Houston games went over the total.
-- Six of last nine Phoenix games went over the total.
-- Six of Thunder's last seven road games stayed under.
-- Last five Laker games went over the total.

Back-to-Back
-- Milwaukee is 1-7-1 vs spread at home if it played on road nite before.
-- Rockets are 2-7 vs spread on road if they played night before.

NBA

Tuesday, March 27

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. PHILADELPHIA
Cleveland is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Philadelphia's last 19 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Cleveland

8:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. MILWAUKEE
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Atlanta's last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games at home
Milwaukee is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games at home

8:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. MEMPHIS
Minnesota is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing on the road against Memphis
Memphis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Memphis's last 6 games when playing at home against Minnesota

8:30 PM
HOUSTON vs. DALLAS
Houston is 2-7-1 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Houston is 2-8 SU in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Dallas's last 6 games at home
Dallas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Houston

10:00 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. PHOENIX
San Antonio is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 7 of San Antonio's last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Phoenix's last 9 games at home
Phoenix is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home

10:00 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. PORTLAND
Oklahoma City is 15-8 SU in its last 23 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oklahoma City's last 7 games on the road
Portland is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Portland's last 6 games

10:30 PM
LA LAKERS vs. GOLDEN STATE
LA Lakers are 8-17 ATS in their last 25 games on the road
LA Lakers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games on the road
Golden State is 1-6 SU in their last 7 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Golden State's last 6 games

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NBA

Tuesday, March 27

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Pick 'n' roll: Tuesday's best NBA bets
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Oklahoma City Thunder at Portland Trail Blazers (4.5, 198.5)

The Oklahoma City Thunder used Sunday’s game against Miami as a major stepping stone, blowing out the Heat 103-87.

Kevin Durant put up 28 points, but also had a lot of help from Kendrick Perkins, Serge Ibaka and Nick Collison inside. Those three bigs combined for 37 points.

"Those guys do such a great job playing off everybody," Durant told reporters. "They are bigs that do not need the ball in their hand all the time to score. They get offensive rebounds, they get into the paint, and Serge is such a great jump shooter. He makes it easy on me. They did a great job tonight not only on offense but on defense as well."

The Thunder look ready to get on a nice run, but you have to be a little wary of a letdown after Sunday’s big win.

We’ll stick with the over.

Pick: Over

San Antonio Spurs at Phoenix Suns (2, 201.5)

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich knows this condensed schedule is going to be tough for his aging team down the stretch and he’s doing everything he can to save their legs.

With his club playing three games in as many days, he went without Tony Parker one night, Manu Ginobili for another and Tim Duncan for the last contest. San Antonio won all three games, covering the number twice.

"I think that they showed a lot of toughness, a lot of character to do that three nights in a row with different combinations and different players playing each night," Popovich said. "What's really great is they appreciate and are happy with the success of their teammates. Whoever's not playing isn't hoping that something bad happens so he can get into the game or anything like that. They really pull for each other."

The Suns are in good spirits as well, having won six of eight while covering seven times. They’re right in the thick of the playoff race and need to keep the hot streak going, but will have a tough time against the Spurs.

Pick: Spurs

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NBA

Tuesday, March 27

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NBA Top 3: Teams with the toughest remaing schedules
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There are a number of NBA players on the wrong side of 30, with knees as swollen as Ashley Judd’s face, thinking about the 66-game regular season. The super-condensed sked filled their wallets, but there’s got to be a few banged-up ballers who’d give back some bucks for a couple days of rest.

There’s only a month to go until the regular season is over but some teams are still staring down the most grueling part of their journey.

Here’s a look at three NBA teams with the worst remaining schedules:

Boston Celtics

The league didn’t do any favors for the old fellas in Boston. The Celtics play 10 of their final 18 games on the road and only one of those eight home games is against a team with a losing record (Milwaukee on the last game of the season).

The C’s play five more sets of back to backs with a back to back to back sandwiched in there, too. Boston, by the way, is 4-10 this season against the spread playing on zero days’ rest and went 5-13 ATS in the same scenario last season.

Oh, one more thing. The Green Guys still have to play the Heat three times.

Memphis Grizzlies

Beginning on Friday, the Griz play seven games in nine nights – and five of those are on the highway. Ouch. And they still have two more sets of four games in five nights following that nasty stretch.

Thirteen of the club’s 19 remaining matchups are against teams with winning records, including the Heat, Spurs, Magic and Mavericks.

Cleveland Cavaliers

There are 31 days left in the regular season and the Cavs have 20 games left. That’s three or four more games over the next month than just about every team in the league.

Cleveland starts a four in five set on Tuesday, plays five games in six nights the second week of April and caps off the campaign with one more four in five pack. Isn’t this material enough for another strongly-worded letter from Cavs owner Dan Gilbert? Oh, that’s right. Cleveland is tanking this season. How convenient.

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**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 10:02 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Florida at Montreal
The Canadiens look to build on their 5-2 record in their last 7 games as a home underdog. Montreal is the pick (+100) according to Dunkel, which has the Canadiens favored by 1/2 a goal. Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+100). Here are all of today's picks.

TUESDAY, MARCH 27

Game 51-52: Chicago at New Jersey (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 11.137; New Jersey 10.675
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: New Jersey (-130); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+110); Under

Game 53-54: NY Islanders at Pittsburgh (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Islanders 11.482; Pittsburgh 12.453
Dunkel Line & Total: Pittsburgh by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Pittsburgh (-280); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-280); Over

Game 55-56: Carolina at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 11.856; Toronto 10.735
Dunkel Line & Total: Carolina by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-115); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (-105); Over

Game 57-58: Buffalo at Washington (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 12.454; Washington 11.233
Dunkel Line & Total: Buffalo by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-110); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (-110); Under

Game 59-60: Tampa Bay at Boston (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 11.596; Boston 11.926
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-250); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-250); Over

Game 61-62: Florida at Montreal (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Florida 11.043; Montreal 11.320
Dunkel Line & Total: Montreal by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Florida (-120); 5
Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+100); Under

Game 63-64: NY Rangers at Minnesota (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Rangers 10.117; Minnesota 11.312
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 1; 4
Vegas Line & Total: NY Rangers (-185); 5
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+165); Under

Game 65-66: Nashville at St. Louis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Nashville 11.422; St. Louis 13.050
Dunkel Line & Total: St. Louis by 1 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-160); 5
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-160); Over

NHL
Long Sheet

Tuesday, March 27

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CHICAGO (42-26-0-8, 92 pts.) at NEW JERSEY (42-28-0-6, 90 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 6-13 ATS (-10.1 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
CHICAGO is 3-11 ATS (-11.4 Units) in road games on Tuesday nights over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 42-33 ATS (-7.3 Units) in all games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 49-35 ATS (-2.1 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 11-5 ATS (+5.3 Units) on Tuesday nights this season.
CHICAGO is 307-328 ATS (+692.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 2-1 (+0.0 Units) against the spread versus NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 2-1-0 straight up against NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.2 Units)

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NY ISLANDERS (31-33-0-11, 73 pts.) at PITTSBURGH (47-22-0-6, 100 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY ISLANDERS are 30-60 ATS (+110.3 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
NY ISLANDERS are 6-27 ATS (+53.4 Units) in road games vs. division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 14-1 ATS (+12.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
PITTSBURGH is 18-2 ATS (+13.7 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NY ISLANDERS are 6-2 ATS (+9.0 Units) in road games after playing 3 consecutive road games over the last 2 seasons.
NY ISLANDERS are 8-3 ATS (+12.0 Units) in road games on Tuesday nights this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 13-3 (+8.4 Units) against the spread versus NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 13-3-0 straight up against NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
8 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.2 Units)

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CAROLINA (30-31-0-15, 75 pts.) at TORONTO (33-34-0-9, 75 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 16-32 ATS (+54.4 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 8-23 ATS (+40.6 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
TORONTO is 15-21 ATS (+36.6 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
TORONTO is 16-26 ATS (-15.3 Units) in home games revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 143-143 ATS (-56.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
TORONTO is 67-72 ATS (-65.1 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1996.
TORONTO is 5-13 ATS (+21.5 Units) on Tuesday nights this season.
TORONTO is 9-17 ATS (-12.6 Units) in home games when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CAROLINA is 7-4 (+2.6 Units) against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
CAROLINA is 7-4-0 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=-0.6 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)

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BUFFALO (37-29-0-10, 84 pts.) at WASHINGTON (38-30-0-8, 84 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 30-8 ATS (+14.1 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
BUFFALO is 51-39 ATS (+7.6 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BUFFALO is 14-7 ATS (+22.2 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 11-21 ATS (-22.9 Units) in home games after shutting out their opponent in their previous game since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 19-24 ATS (-14.9 Units) after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 7-4 (+2.4 Units) against the spread versus BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 7-4-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.7 Units)

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TAMPA BAY (35-33-0-7, 77 pts.) at BOSTON (44-28-0-3, 91 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 94-183 ATS (+337.5 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.
TAMPA BAY is 92-82 ATS (+178.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 51-40 ATS (+100.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 27-21 ATS (+53.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 22-16 ATS (+44.8 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 30-44 ATS (-31.3 Units) in home games after playing 3 consecutive road games since 1996.
BOSTON is 18-18 ATS (-9.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
BOSTON is 5-11 ATS (-15.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
BOSTON is 20-20 ATS (-18.7 Units) second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 10-8-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
10 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+3.4 Units)

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FLORIDA (36-24-0-15, 87 pts.) at MONTREAL (29-34-0-13, 71 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 260-298 ATS (-91.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
FLORIDA is 129-165 ATS (-74.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1996.
FLORIDA is 30-53 ATS (+91.4 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 9-23 ATS (+34.9 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders over the last 3 seasons.
MONTREAL is 28-47 ATS (-30.2 Units) in all games this season.
MONTREAL is 16-29 ATS (-17.8 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
MONTREAL is 1-8 ATS (-8.5 Units) in home games after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
MONTREAL is 5-18 ATS (+23.1 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
MONTREAL is 11-18 ATS (+30.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MONTREAL is 6-5 (+0.7 Units) against the spread versus FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
MONTREAL is 6-5-0 straight up against FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.8 Units)

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NY RANGERS (47-21-0-7, 101 pts.) at MINNESOTA (31-34-0-10, 72 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 139-125 ATS (+287.2 Units) after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game since 1996.
NY RANGERS are 47-27 ATS (+8.9 Units) in all games this season.
NY RANGERS are 17-6 ATS (+8.8 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game this season.
NY RANGERS are 23-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MINNESOTA is 10-24 ATS (+39.1 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 2-1 (+1.1 Units) against the spread versus NY RANGERS over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 2-1-0 straight up against NY RANGERS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.1 Units)

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NASHVILLE (44-24-0-8, 96 pts.) at ST LOUIS (47-20-0-9, 103 pts.) - 3/27/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NASHVILLE is 12-22 ATS (-14.6 Units) on Tuesday nights over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 47-29 ATS (+12.0 Units) in all games this season.
ST LOUIS is 21-6 ATS (+12.8 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5 or less this season.
ST LOUIS is 15-3 ATS (+10.0 Units) in home games second half of the season this season.
NASHVILLE is 43-32 ATS (+5.5 Units) in all games this season.
NASHVILLE is 20-13 ATS (+6.3 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
NASHVILLE is 15-8 ATS (+25.2 Units) in road games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 23-17 ATS (+5.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NASHVILLE is 17-11 ATS (+28.4 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5 or less this season.
NASHVILLE is 56-39 ATS (+12.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 15-6 ATS (+8.2 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
NASHVILLE is 14-6 ATS (+6.8 Units) after a division game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NASHVILLE is 11-6 (+6.0 Units) against the spread versus ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
NASHVILLE is 11-6-0 straight up against ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
12 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+8.8 Units)

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NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, March 27

Hot teams
-- Chicago won five of its last six games.
-- Pittsburgh won last ten home games, scoring 23 goals in last four. Islanders won three of their last four games.
-- Sabres won their last four games, allowing five goals. Washington won three of its last four home games.
-- Boston won four of its last five games. Lightning won their last three games, allowing eight goals.
-- Rangers won three of their last four games.
-- Blues won 12 of their last 14 home games. Nashville won its last two games, 3-1/6-1.

Cold teams
-- Devils lost four of their last five games.
-- Toronto lost its last nine home games. Hurricanes are 5-8 in their last 13 road games.
-- Canadiens lost four of their last five games. Florida lost its last three games, scoring four goals.
-- Minnesota lost five of its last seven games.

Totals
-- Over is 6-2-1 in Chicago's last nine games.
-- Over is 4-0-2 in Islanders' last six road games.
-- Last five Carolina road games went over total.
-- Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Washington home games.
-- Six of last seven Tampa Bay games went over total.
-- Last four Florida games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 4-1-1 in last six Minnesota games.
-- Four of last five St Louis games stayed under.

Series records
-- Devils won 5-3 at Chicago in LY's meeting.
-- Islanders lost seven of last eight games against Pittsburgh.
-- Hurricanes won 12 of last 16 games with Toronto.
-- Sabres lost six of last nine games against Washington.
-- Home side won last seven Lightning-Boston games.
-- Panthers are 3-0 vs Montreal this season: 2-1/3-2/4-2.
-- Rangers-Minnesota split their last six games (home team 4-2).
-- Predators won three of last four games with St Louis.

Back-to-Back
-- Lightning is 3-2 if they won the night before.

NHL

Tuesday, March 27

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7:00 PM
BUFFALO vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games when playing Washington
Buffalo is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Washington is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Buffalo
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games when playing Buffalo

7:00 PM
CAROLINA vs. TORONTO
Carolina is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games at home
Toronto is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. NEW JERSEY
Chicago is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chicago's last 7 games on the road
New Jersey11-3-1 SU in its last 15 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Jersey's last 6 games when playing at home against Chicago

7:00 PM
NY ISLANDERS vs. PITTSBURGH
NY Islanders are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the NY Islanders last 5 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against NY Islanders
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games when playing at home against NY Islanders

7:30 PM
FLORIDA vs. MONTREAL
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Florida's last 11 games when playing on the road against Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Florida's last 5 games on the road
Montreal is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Montreal's last 11 games when playing at home against Florida

7:30 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. BOSTON
Tampa Bay is 8-16 SU in its last 24 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Boston's last 9 games
Boston is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home

8:00 PM
NASHVILLE vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Nashville's last 6 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Nashville's last 6 games on the road
St. Louis is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games
St. Louis is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Nashville

8:00 PM
NY RANGERS vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 6 of the NY Rangers last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the NY Rangers last 6 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing at home against NY Rangers

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NHL

Tuesday, March 27

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Ice picks: Tuesday's best NHL bets
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Carolina Hurricanes at Toronto Maple Leafs (-110, 5.5)

A losing season in Carolina doesn’t cause as much chaos as one in Toronto. Five wins in the last 23 games have the Maple Leafs' faithful calling for the head of general manager Brian Burke.

The Hurricanes aren’t giving up hope, even though they are a whopping nine points out of a playoff spot with six games remaining. That optimism may have something to do with the fact that Carolina has won seven of its last 10 against Toronto.

A loss to the Hurricanes will officially eliminate the Maple Leafs from playoff contention. If Toronto is going to stay alive for one more game, it is going to have to win somewhere where it hasn’t in the last nine tries.

The Maple Leafs are winless in Air Canada Centre since Feb. 6 and have yet to record a home-ice victory for new coach Randy Carlyle, who is 4-6-2 since taking over for the fired Ron Wilson.

The Hurricanes are coming off a tough loss to Detroit and there’s just no reason to have any confidence in the Leafs at this point.

Pick: Over

New York Rangers at Minnesota Wild (155, 5)

New York is trying to hold the lead in the Eastern Conference, with Pittsburgh looming. The Rangers have a one-point cushion over the Penguins, winning three of their last four, and trail St. Louis by two points for the Presidents’ Trophy.

Rangers star goaltender Henrik Lundqvist isn’t happy with his current form and told the media he needs to start fine tuning his work between the pipes before the playoffs begin. The Vezina Trophy favorite – and Hart Trophy dark horse – has allowed seven goals on 51 total shots in his last two games.

However, he did stand tall in overtime and in the shootout versus the Maple Leafs, helping the Rangers pick up win No. 47 – fifth-most in franchise history.

The Wild average only two goals per game and Sunday’s 3-0 loss to Washington was the fifth time Minnesota has been shutout in the last 13 games and the seventh time this season.

Pick: Under

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NHL

Tuesday, March 27

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Pucking the trends: This week's best NHL bets
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Every week, we update you on who's hot, who's not and situational betting spots in the National Hockey League.

HOT TEAM: Buffalo Sabres

It's been one strange season in Buffalo. Goaltender Ryan Miller was run into during a game and missed time. Coach Lindy Ruff was run into during a practice and missed time. And all of the marquee free agents that new owner Terry Pegula brought in over the summer have been sketchy, over the long term, at best.

But the Sabres have it all turned around, and somehow, some way, they found themselves in the No. 8 spot of the Eastern Conference on Sunday morning. Buffalo's 3-1 win over Minnesota on Saturday was its fourth straight, and it doesn't matter who's facing them on a given night. They play a team headed nowhere like Montreal last Wednesday? A 3-0 win. They play the No. 1 seed in the East, the New York Rangers, on Friday? A 4-1 win.

It hasn't been all Miller, either. In fact, rookie Marcus Foligno has breathed new life into the offense. Though just 20 years old, he has six goals and 10 points in eight games since being promoted from the minors. Not bad.

Tuesday's date with Washington looms, though, as perhaps the biggest game of the season for the Sabres. The Capitals are still right behind them, and pound for pound, probably have more talent than them, too.

COLD TEAM: Detroit Red Wings

With a veteran team, a veteran coach, and let's face it, a veteran fan base that's been through it all before, good and bad, there's probably little to no panic going on in Hockeytown right now. The Red Wings have slumped through March, yes, and that's typical of aging teams that battled through the grind of winter.

But coach Mike Babcock has been able, of course, to carry on the Detroit tradition of postseason success, and things will likely turn around when the Red Wings start the playoffs, as a likely No. 4 seed.

That said, it has been disturbing of late. Saturday's 5-4 win over Carolina broke a six-game losing streak in which they netted just two points. Some of the losses were puzzling: 4-0 to Anaheim, and 5-3 to Washington. Not pretty.

But the key, moving forward, is injured goalie Jimmy Howard, and there appears to be good news on him for this week. Red Wings general manager Ken Holland, in fact, told reporters during Saturday's win that Howard, hampered by a groin injury, might return Monday against Columbus.

OVER PLAY: Pittsburgh Penguins

You think having captain Sidney Crosby back in the mix is a good thing? Well, certainly for the league it is. We knew that. Certainly for Penguins fans and bettors, too, of course. We knew that. But don’t forget about over players. Those are the guys who are truly cashing in on Crosby’s fate.

The Penguins lost to Ottawa, 8-4, on Saturday in an up-and-down, high-wire game fit for “Hockey Night in Canada,” and it only furthered a trend for Pittsburgh. The over was the Penguins’ sixth in the last seven games, and third straight. The run began, incidentally, a game before Crosby returned from concussion-like symptoms.

Pittsburgh certainly would like to be playing better defense down the stretch, and surely coach Dan Bylsma will examine that defensive effort versus the Senators very closely. But you can’t hide from this number: Since Crosby has returned to action, and before their Sunday game versus New Jersey, Penguins games have featured an average of 9.8 goals. That’s quality, quality over territory, folks.

UNDER PLAY: Calgary Flames

The Flames, despite five consecutive losses, are still alive out West, and have a slim chance at snaring the No. 8 seed. They may not want it, though, considering they've netted just two points in that stretch, and have no answers offensively.

But, opportunity knocks for under bettors, as Calgary has paid off of late. Saturday's 4-1 loss to Dallas was a push, but extended an overless streak to seven games (0-3-4), and that's a decent stretch of defensive hockey this late in the year.

The offense -- or lack of -- has been the prime factor, though. In the last five games, headed into Monday's date with the Stars, Calgary hadn't scored more than two goals in any contest.

Jarome Iginla -- surprise, surprise -- has topped 30 goals again, as he sits with 31, but it looks like Curtis Glencross (25) is the only other Flame who has a shot to reach that rent district. And when that's the case, you're an under team.

SURVEYING THE SCHEDULE:

** The Rangers stopped the bleeding a bit with a 4-3 shootout win at Toronto on Saturday, but as they continue to fend off Pittsburgh for the No. 1 seed in the East, this week will be big, as they embark on their last true road trip of the season. And though the competition will be light, there is a back-to-back set to be concerned with. The Rangers play at Minnesota on Tuesday, and at Winnipeg on Wednesday. That's a lot of miles in a short time frame this late in the year. Be wary.

** The Blackhawks had a light week last week, and that's a good thing, because Sunday's game against Nashville opened a stretch of five contests over an eight-day stretch. The good news is that there are three home games in that run, and the furthest they'll travel is to New Jersey on Tuesday. But still, that's a lot of hockey, so monitor those Blackhawks for tired legs.

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**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 11:59 AM

NHL
Short Sheet

Tuesday, March 27

CHICAGO at NEW JERSEY, 7:05 PM ET
CHICAGO: 3-9 SU after allowing 5+ goals
NEW JERSEY: 7-2-2 SU at home vs. Chicago

NY ISLANDERS at PITTSBURGH, 7:05 PM ET
NY ISLANDERS: 6-27 SU in division road games
PITTSBURGH: 22-3 SU as home favorite of -200 or more

CAROLINA at TORONTO, 7:05 PM ET
CAROLINA: 6-1 SU off BB road losses
TORONTO: 5-11 SU at home when the money line is -100 to -150

BUFFALO at WASHINGTON, 7:05 PM ET
BUFFALO: 0-5 SU at Washington
WASHINGTON: 10-20 SU at home off shutout win

TAMPA BAY at BOSTON, 7:35 PM ET
TAMPA BAY: 4-25-4 SU at Boston
BOSTON: 6-10 SU off 1 goal win

FLORIDA at MONTREAL, 7:35 PM ET
FLORIDA: 12-27 SU off OT loss
MONTREAL: 1-8 SU at home after allowing 4+ goals

NY RANGERS at MINNESOTA, 8:05 PM ET
NY RANGERS: 17-6 SU after allowing 4+ goals
MINNESOTA: 13-29 SU off loss

NASHVILLE at ST LOUIS, 8:05 PM ET
NASHVILLE: 6-2 SU at St. Louis
ST LOUIS: 18-2 SU at home off win

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

**Udog** · 03-27-2012, 12:02 PM

NBA
Short Sheet

Tuesday, March 27

CLEVELAND at PHILADELPHIA, 7:05 PM ET
CLEVELAND: 1-6 ATS revenging loss where team scored 85 pts or less
PHILADELPHIA: 4-0 Under off double digit road loss

MINNESOTA at MEMPHIS, 8:05 PM ET
MINNESOTA: 21-9 ATS as underdog
MEMPHIS: 8-2 Under vs. Minnesota

ATLANTA at MILWAUKEE, 8:05 PM ET
ATLANTA: 3-14 ATS Away after allowing 120+
MILWAUKEE: 12-3 Over playing on back to back days

HOUSTON at DALLAS, 8:35 PM ET
HOUSTON: 11-3 Over in March
DALLAS: 11-0 ATS off division win

SAN ANTONIO at PHOENIX, 10:05 PM ET
SAN ANTONIO: 17-7 ATS L24 games
PHOENIX: 4-12 ATS revenging road loss

OKLAHOMA CITY at PORTLAND, 10:05 PM ET
OKLAHOMA CITY: 8-0 Under Away if they made 50%+ or better of 3pt shots last game
PORTLAND: 2-13 ATS revenging loss where opp scored 110+

LA LAKERS at GOLDEN STATE, 10:35 PM ET
LA LAKERS: 4-13 ATS off home loss
GOLDEN STATE: 21-7 Over vs. Lakers

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

**wayne1218** · 03-27-2012, 06:38 PM

Thanks udog!

Announcement

Tuesday's Trends and Indexes - 3/27 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

Tuesday's Trends and Indexes - 3/27 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

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