Announcement

**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 08:45 AM

Saturday’s betting tips: Kansas OK with underdog tag

Who’s hot

NCAAB: Ohio State is 8-3 against the spread in its last 11 neutral-site games.

NCAAB: Louisville is riding an 8-0 run against the spread.

NBA: New Orleans has covered in four of its last five.

NBA: San Antonio has covered in five straight home games.

NHL: New Jersey has won five of its last six against Carolina.

NHL: Los Angeles has won seven of its last nine.

Who’s not

NCAAB: Kansas is 2-11 against the spread in its last 13 vs. Big Ten opponents.

NCAAB: The under is 0-4 in Kentucky’s last four.

NBA: Los Angeles Lakers are 0-6 against the spread in their last six home games.

NBA: Indiana is 1-4 against the number in its last five in its last five road games.

NHL: Minnesota has won five of its last 16 home games.

NHL: Anaheim has won one of its last six road games.

Key stat

20 – The New Orleans Hornets have been forced to use 20 different starting lineups this season and played with a season-low eight healthy bodies in Thursday’s loss to Portland. It doesn’t get any easier for the Hornets Saturday as they visit the Lakers.

Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers – Irving suffered a sprained right shoulder Friday night but said after that he hoped to play Saturday against the Knicks. He’s currently listed as questionable. Irving averages 18.7 points and 5.7 assists per game.

Games of the day

Louisville Cardinals vs. Kentucky Wildcats (-8.5, 137)
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Kansas Jayhawks (2.5, 136.5)

Notable quotable

"We have a nice team. I don't know if you're a serious underdog when you won 31 games, you win your league by two games in a good league. But I do grow with what you're saying, from the start to now, I don't think that many people would have envisioned us being in this position. We have kind of flown under the radar, by Kansas standards of late, which I think has been very healthy for a team that's just trying to find themselves." Kansas Jayhawks coach Bill Self on being an underdog against Ohio State on Saturday.

Notes and tips

LeBron James remains the favorite to win the NBA MVP award, but if you ask the reigning winner, Derrick Rose, he says Kevin Durant has the inside track. When asked who he liked to win the award, Rose told ESPN.com “K-Love (Kevin Love) been putting in work too, but I think KD (Kevin Durant).” Oddsmakers currently have Durant around +600 to win the award, behind LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.

New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton is expected to appeal his one-year suspension in connection with the team's bounty program. NFL.com, citing a league source, reported that Payton will attempt to obtain the full investigative report from the NFL on the evidence against him and seek clarification on how much time he has to prepare his appeal. The suspension was scheduled to begin on April 1. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has promised a swift appeals process if Payton decides to go that route. Goodell has yet to announce punishments against New Orleans players. An NFL probe revealed that 22 to 27 players were involved in the bounty program.

St. Louis Blues left wing Andy McDonald will return to the lineup for Saturday night's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. McDonald has been sidelined for six games with a shoulder injury suffered in a game against the Carolina Hurricanes on March 15. St. Louis, which has clinched a playoff berth and is closing in on the Central Division title, leads the New York Rangers by one point for the league's best record. McDonald, who missed four months with a concussion, has nine goals and 10 assists in 21 games this season. He had a six-game points streak prior to suffering the shoulder injury.

**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 08:45 AM

Armadillo: Saturday's six-pack

According to philsteele.com, the six hardest schedules in college football this coming fall.........opponents' 2011 combined records listed

6) Iowa State-- 95-57, .625. Mizzou/Texas A&M no longer rivals.

T4) TCU-- 97-56, .634. Another year, another new league.
T4) Notre Dame-- 97-56, .634. Irrelevant team until they join a league.

3) Baylor-- 100-55, .645. Hope they improved their defense.

2) Kansas-- 102-51, .667. Can't believe they hired Charlie Weis. Ugh.

1) Texas A&M-- 105-51, .673. Water gets deeper this year, fellas.

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

Armadillo: Saturday's List of 13: Random thoughts with the weekend here.....

13) ESPN’s Doug Gottlieb is smart, outspoken and can be abrasive; he has never coached, but he did play PG at both Notre Dame/Oklahoma State. He has been openly campaigning this week to be the new basketball coach at Kansas State.

Doubt K-State honchos would take such a gamble, but Gottlieb does have a plan, and he does have recruiting connections (his dad, who was once an assistant at K-State, runs a recruiting service in southern California).

12) There were a total of three walks and 26 strikeouts in the two ballgames over in Japan. Wonder what the Japanese fan thinks of our game, as opposed to the Japanese version?

11) OK, there is a new TV show coming on the NatGeo network called Wicked Tuna; its not about Bill Parcells, its about fisherman in New England. I kid you not.

10) If you’re a bigwig at the TNT network, how do you approach Shaquille O’Neal and tell him he’s not good on TV and his contract isn’t being renewed? His defense of Andrew Bynum Thursday was incredibly lame.

9) I need an explanation of how Don Nelson is in the Basketball Hall of Fame, but Rick Pitino/Jerry Tarkanian aren’t. Nelson coached forever in the NBA and never once got to the Finals. When he was coaching the Warriors, he basically rolled the balls out and watched both teams run up and down the floor like madmen, while he planned building his new home in Hawai’i. Nelson was a supporting player on many terrific Celtic teams, but other than longevity, nothing about his career says “Hall of Famer”.

8) Lookalikes: actor Breckin Meyer (the little guy on Franklin & Bash) and Oklahoma City Thunder coach Scott Brooks.

7) Odd Stat of Day: Someone from 1070 AM radio in Indianapolis tweeted Friday that Dusty Baker is 322-326 in his first four years managing the Reds. His record in his first four years managing the Cubs? 322-326.

6) Rio Grande Valley in Texas had six inches of hail Thursday. Yikes.

5) Charlotte Bobcat coach Paul Silas is having one of his assistants coach the team one game a week; he has to notify the league office when the assistant is going to be the head coach. The assistant? His son Stephen. Quite an organization Michael Jordan has assembled down there.

4) They show GM Mitch Kupchak sitting by himself at Laker games in the Staples Center and I have two thoughts:
a) Doesn’t this guy have any family/friends to sit with him during games? and b) This poor guy looks totally miserable. Both are probably untrue, but I’d like to see Craig Sager run up there one night and interview Kupchak during the game, just to give him a little company.

3) Tony Larussa landed $2.5M gig as special advisor to the Commissioner. Must be nice.

2) Wish I had Gio Gonzalez on my fantasy team; think he’s going to have a very big year in Washington.

1) Land of the Stupid: Mets’ home opener is next Thursday the 5th; instead of finishing Grapefruit League play on Tuesday, flying home that night and having a workout at Citi Field Wednesday (they moved some of the fences in, so its going to be a somewhat different ballpark) and letting the players get settled, these nitwits have a game in Tampa Wednesday, so the first time the Met players will Citi Field is Thursday morning, on the day of the first game. Brilliant!!!

**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 08:46 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

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

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

Saturday, March 31

Final Four

Kentucky (-10) beat Louisville 69-62 on New Year's Eve; if I remember right, Cardinals hit two treys in last 0:10 to cover spread in game they trailed 31-16 early. Russ Smith had 30 off bench for Louisville, but two starting guards combined to shoot 4-23. Favorites covered three of four regional finals last week; going back 18 years, last four times favorites did that well in regional finals, underdogs covered two of three in Final Four all four times. Over last 25 years, #1 seed won/covered four of five against #4 seed in national semifinals. Kentucky shot 35.9% when it lost to Vanderbilt in this building 20 days ago; in its only other loss, Indiana made 9-15 from arc back on December 10, in 72-71 win. Since 1999, #1 seed is 7-1 vs spread in national semis against a #3 or lower seed.

Kansas (-1) beat Ohio State 78-67 in Lawrence Dec 10, shooting 58% in game Sullinger missed (back); Thomas had 13 assists despite a sore knee. This is first time since 1995 pair of #2 seeds meet in national semifinals; underdog won that game, which was only meeting of 2's in national semi since tournament went to 64 teams. Over last seven years, favorites are 9-5 vs spread in national semis, but dogs are 5-3 in semifinals if spread was less than 3 points. Kansas holds opponents to 40% inside the arc, (#1 in nation); they're 13-1 in last 14 games, losing only to Baylor in Big X tourney. Ohio State won eight of its last nine games, losing in final of Big Dozen tournament to Michigan State.

NCAAB

Saturday, March 31

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Trend Report
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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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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 08:47 AM

NCAAB

Saturday, March 31

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NCAA Final Four preview & pick: Louisville vs. Kentucky
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No. 4 Louisville Cardinals vs. No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats (-8.5, 136)

THE STORY: One of college basketball’s fiercest rivalries figures to rise to an unprecedented level of intensity when the Cardinals and Wildcats meet in New Orleans for a berth in the national championship game. Kentucky’s appearance in the Final Four is no surprise. The Wildcats lost just one game in the regular season and have faced little opposition in rolling to 36 victories in 38 games. The Cardinals, meanwhile, saved their best work for late in the season. Louisville, which won the Big East tournament championship, rides an eight-game winning streak into New Orleans. Kentucky beat the Cardinals 69-62 on New Year’s Eve in Lexington and owns a 29-14 lead in the series.

TV: 6:09 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Kentucky -8.5

ABOUT LOUISVILLE (30-9): The Cardinals lost four of their final six games entering the Big East tournament and battled injuries all season long. So how did Louisville win the conference title and then slay top-seed Michigan State and Florida on its way to New Orleans? Start with defense. The Cardinals have allowed just 56.3 points during their winning streak, and smothered Florida with a 23-8 surge in the final 10 minutes of the West Regional final on Saturday. The Cardinals rank third nationally in 3-point field-goal percentage defense (38.0 percent) and seventh in steals (8.9). But can Louisville play well enough on offense to stay close to Kentucky? The Cardinals shoot just 42.5 percent from the field (220th in the nation). Sophomore Russ Smith led the Cardinals with 19 points in the regional final, and Louisville got 17 points from freshman Chane Behanan, the West Regional’s most outstanding player.

ABOUT KENTUCKY (36-2): In their first four NCAA games, the Wildcats showed both the ability to completely take control with dominant stretches against Western Kentucky, Iowa State and Baylor, and the toughness to hold a stubborn Indiana just out of striking distance. The Wildcats’ balanced attack has shined in the tournament. Freshman Michael Kidd-Gilchrist earned most outstanding player honors of the South Regional after scoring 43 points in his past two games. Kentucky shot 80.2 percent from the free-throw line in its past two games (65-for-81), and continues to make life tough on opposing offenses with its strong interior defense (six blocks by freshman Anthony Davis against Baylor). Kentucky leads the nation in blocked shots (8.6) and field-goal percentage defense (37.5 percent).

TRENDS:

* Under is 11-2 in the last 13 meetings.
* Cardinals are 2-6 ATS in the last eight meetings.
* Wildcats are 3-11-1 ATS in their last 15 non-conference games.
* Cardinals are 7-2 ATS in their last nine games as underdogs.

TIP-INS:

1. The Cardinals and Wildcats did not play for 24 years, until the 1983 Mideast Regional final, won by Louisville 80-68 in overtime. That game led to the renewal of a series that dates back to 1913.

2. The Wildcats are two wins away from their first national title since 1998. Their coach in that championship season? Current Louisville coach Rick Pitino.

3. Louisville scored 15 points off turnovers against Florida, illustrating the Cardinals’ pressure-driven defense that’s helped fueled their late-season surge.

Pick: Kentucky

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NCAAB

Saturday, March 31

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NCAA Final Four preview & pick: Ohio State vs. Kansas
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No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes vs. No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks (+2.5, 136.5)

THE STORY: Something was missing when Kansas beat then-No. 2 Ohio State on Dec. 10 at Allen Fieldhouse -- namely Buckeyes star Jared Sullinger -- but both teams will be at full strength for the rematch Saturday in New Orleans. Sullinger and teammate Deshaun Thomas will clash with Kansas star Thomas Robinson and 7-footer Jeff Withey in a matchup of two of the nation's top frontcourt duos.

TV: Approx. 8:50 p.m. ET, CBS

ABOUT OHIO STATE (31-7): The Buckeyes are in their 10th Final Four and are seeking their second title -- and their first since 1960 -- after a 77-70 win over No. 1 seed Syracuse on Saturday. They're certainly peaking at the right time to win it. After losing three of five during a rough stretch in February, the Buckeyes have won eight of nine, with the loss coming in the Big Ten tournament final against Michigan State. Five Buckeyes have averaged double-digits in the tournament, led by Thomas' 21.8 points to go with 8.5 rebounds per game.

ABOUT KANSAS (31-6): The Jayhawks advanced to their 14th Final Four with an 80-67 win over No. 1 seed North Carolina on Sunday. It's the Jayhawks' second trip to the Final Four under coach Bill Self, who led them to the 2008 national title. Robinson led the Jayhawks with 21 points and seven rebounds in the first meeting, but he almost certainly will see a different defensive look from the Buckeyes with Sullinger in the lineup. Perhaps more important to the Jayhawks, though, is whether senior point guard Tyshawn Taylor can give a more consistent performance than in the first meeting -- he had nine points and 13 assists, but also seven turnovers, in the victory in December.

TRENDS:

* Buckeyes are 5-2 ATS in their last seven NCAA tournament games.
* Jayhawks are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 vs. Big Ten.
* Over is 10-1 in Buckeyes' last 11 overall.
* Under is 17-4 in Jayhawks' last 21 NCAA tournament games.

TIP-INS:

1. The Jayhawks have won six of nine all-time meetings, including four straight.

2. Both teams have come to expect double-doubles from their star forwards. Robinson has set a Kansas record with 26 this season, and Sullinger is 10th all-time at Ohio State with 34 in his career.

3. Kansas has won 13 of 14 to reach the 30-win plateau for the third straight year and the fifth time in six seasons.

Pick: Ohio State

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NCAAB

Saturday, March 31

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Take it or leave it: Breaking down the Final Four rematches
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Rarely does the Final Four lend itself to recent trends and matchups. College basketball teams change each season, and stats and figures from years ago hold about as much weight as the runway in a fashion show.

However, basketball bettors get a gift from the Gambling Gods this March with both Final Four games pegged as rematches of non-conference regular season meetings.

Ohio State tangled with Kansas at Allen Fieldhouse on Dec. 10, with the host Jayhawks winning 78-67 as 1.5-point home favorites. State rivals Kentucky and Louisville rang in the New Year with a 69-62 Wildcats win in Rupp Arena, with UK failing to cover the 10-point spread on Dec. 31.

All four programs have improved by leaps and bounds since those meetings. And while much of what happened during those December dates can get tossed in the trash, there are some important notes bettors should keep in mind when sizing up the odds for this Saturday’s national semifinal games.

Here’s what to take and what to leave from the first matchups between the Final Four contenders:

Kansas Jayhawks 78, Ohio State Buckeyes 67 – Dec. 10, 2011

Take it: Sans Sullinger

The Buckeyes were without All-American center Jared Sullinger due to back spasms in their first meeting with the Jayhawks. Ohio State’s offense flows through the post and without the stud sophomore sucking in the defense, their sets looked lost.

The Buckeyes shot just under 39 percent and went to the foul line only 18 times. Ohio State has been to the stripe 69 times in the last two games with Sullinger going 18 for 22 from the foul line in that span.

Leave it: Kansas shooting

The Jayhawks were on fire versus OSU, shooting 58 percent from the field and 9 for 17 from beyond the arc. Kansas took advantage of Sullinger’s absence, getting 21 points from Thomas Robinson, and finding lots of room for shooters and passing lanes because the Buckeyes couldn’t cheat up without their big man in the middle.

Kansas isn’t shooting well in the tournament, hitting only 40.6 percent of its buckets. It's been especially dismal from beyond the arc, going 16 for 68 (23.5 percent) from distance. The Jayhawks shot 46 percent versus North Carolina, but a lot of those came on layups in transition.

Take it: Tyshawn toughs it out

Tyshawn Taylor took on the top perimeter defender in college basketball with just one leg back in December. It will be interesting to see what happens when the healthy KU guard tangles with OSU’s Aaron Kraft this weekend.

Taylor scored nine points on 3-of-9 shooting and committed seven turnovers, playing on a torn meniscus and sprained right MCL on Dec. 10. But he also dished out 13 assists and got to the foul line six times. Taylor, who struggled in the first three games of the NCAA (and is 0 for 17 from 3-point land), showed up when KU needed him most, scoring 22 points in the Elite Eight win over UNC.

Kentucky Wildcats 69, Louisville Cardinals 62 – Dec. 31, 2011

Leave it: Old acquaintance be forgot

Covers Expert Ted Sevransky drew attention to the fact that this game was played at noon on New Year’s Eve, in his Final Four writeup this week. Not only did a distracted Wildcats squad shoot just 29.8 percent from the field and commit a season-high 20 turnovers, but also burned backers bad.

Kentucky, ahead by 13 points with 10 seconds left, started daydreaming about ringing in 2012 with the co-eds instead of closing out the Cardinals. The lack of focus led to one of the worst beats of the season.

Kentucky, a 10-point favorite, watched as Russ Smith buried a 3-pointer then got the ball back on a steal and drained another trey at the buzzer to trim the lead to seven, forcing UK backers to change their New Year’s resolutions from “stop smoking” to “stop betting on Kentucky.” That blown cover was part of a 0-13-1 ATS skid for the Wildcats that spanned nearly two months.

Take it: Wildcats Windex

Kentucky dominated the glass in its previous meeting with Louisville, out-rebounding its state rival 49-28, including 14 offensive boards. The Cardinals were beaten on the glass by Florida and New Mexico State, but somehow outworked Michigan State – the best rebounding team in the country – by two rebounds.

The Wildcats average more than 36 rebounds per game in the tournament – 10.5 of those on the offensive glass. Kentucky forwards Anthony Davis, Terrence Jones and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist are a handful for Louisville’s four-guard set, and were responsible for 40 of UK’s 49 boards back on Dec. 31.

Leave it: No Russ, No Muss

Russ Smith has shown up in the biggest games of the season for Louisville. He scored 19 points and sparked a late rally against Florida to get the Cardinals into the Final Four. And, back in December, he dropped 30 points on perhaps the best defensive team in college hoops. Smith, a 6-foot sophomore who comes off the bench, went 10 for 20 (including 3 for 8 from 3-point range) to keep UL in the game. He was the only Louisville player in double figures.

But, as much as Smith can help the Cardinals, he can hurt them. He was careless down the stretch versus the Gators, committing two of his four turnovers in the final 2:25 of the game and can sometimes be a blackhole when he gets his hands on the basketball. For a guy who plays just under 21 minutes a game, he uses a team-high 32.5 percent of UL’s possessions. The Cardinals can’t afford wasted possessions versus Kentucky, which over the past two games is averaging 1.35 points every time it touches the ball.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:25 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Anaheim at Phoenix
The Ducks look to take advantage of a Phoenix team that is coming off a 2-0 win over San Jose and is 1-5 in their last 6 games after allowing 2 goals or less in the previous game. Anaheim is the pick (+135) according to Dunkel, which has the Ducks favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (+135). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, MARCH 31

Game 51-52: Ottawa at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 11.428; Philadelphia 11.856
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-145); Over

Game 53-54: Boston at NY Islanders (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 11.626; NY Islander 12.390
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-150); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (+130); Under

Game 55-56: New Jersey at Carolina (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 10.369; Carolina 11.818
Dunkel Line & Total: Carolina by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: New Jersey (-130); 5
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+110); Over

Game 57-58: Montreal at Washington (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 10.708; Washington 11.433
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-210); 5
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-210); Under

Game 59-60: Buffalo at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 10.024; Toronto 10.746
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 61-62: Winnipeg at Tampa Bay (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Winnipeg 10.919; Tampa Bay 11.870
Dunkel Line & Total: Tampa Bay by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Tampa Bay (-125); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-125); Under

Game 63-64: Los Angeles at Minnesota (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 11.102; Minnesota 11.662
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles (-155); 5
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+135); Under

Game 65-66: Columbus at St. Louis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Columbus 11.427; St. Louis 12.156
Dunkel Line & Total: St. Louis by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-350); 5
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-350); Over

Game 67-68: Chicago at Nashville (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 11.379; Nashville 12.106
Dunkel Line & Total: Nashville by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Nashville (-135); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Nashville (-135); Over

Game 69-70: Anaheim at Phoenix (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Anaheim 11.813; Phoenix 11.029
Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 1; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Phoenix (-155); 5
Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (+135); Under

Game 71-72: Calgary at Vancouver (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Calgary 9.947; Vancouver 12.155
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 73-74: Dallas at San Jose (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 11.168; San Jose 10.673
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: San Jose (-165); 5
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+145); Under

**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:31 AM

NHL

Saturday, March 31

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Trend Report
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1:00 PM
BOSTON vs. NY ISLANDERS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston's last 6 games when playing on the road against NY Islanders
Boston is 6-2 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against NY Islanders
NY Islanders are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the NY Islanders last 7 games when playing Boston

1:00 PM
OTTAWA vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Ottawa's last 7 games when playing Philadelphia
Ottawa is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 7 games when playing Ottawa
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Ottawa

7:00 PM
BUFFALO vs. TORONTO
Buffalo is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Buffalo's last 11 games when playing on the road against Toronto
Toronto is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Buffalo
Toronto is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games when playing Buffalo

7:00 PM
MONTREAL vs. WASHINGTON
Montreal is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Montreal's last 6 games on the road
Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Washington's last 10 games when playing Montreal

7:00 PM
NEW JERSEY vs. CAROLINA
New Jersey is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Jersey's last 6 games on the road
Carolina is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing New Jersey
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Carolina's last 7 games

7:00 PM
WINNIPEG vs. TAMPA BAY
Winnipeg is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Winnipeg is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games at home
Tampa Bay is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games

8:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. NASHVILLE
Chicago is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago's last 8 games on the road
Nashville is 13-4 SU in its last 17 games at home
Nashville is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago

8:00 PM
COLUMBUS vs. ST. LOUIS
Columbus is 2-13 SU in its last 15 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
Columbus is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing St. Louis
St. Louis is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
St. Louis is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Columbus

8:00 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. MINNESOTA
Los Angeles is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games
Los Angeles is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games when playing Los Angeles
Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Los Angeles

9:00 PM
ANAHEIM vs. PHOENIX
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Anaheim's last 22 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Anaheim's last 7 games when playing Phoenix
Phoenix is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games at home
Phoenix is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Anaheim

10:00 PM
CALGARY vs. VANCOUVER
Calgary is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Vancouver
Calgary is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games when playing Vancouver
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Vancouver's last 24 games when playing Calgary
Vancouver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

10:30 PM
DALLAS vs. SAN JOSE
Dallas is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing San Jose
Dallas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against San Jose
San Jose is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Dallas
San Jose is 8-16 SU in its last 24 games

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:35 AM

NHL

Saturday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hockey Night In Canada: NHL betting preview
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Buffalo Sabres at Toronto Maple Leafs (N/A)

A regional rivalry that’s usually good for some drama closes its doors with a home-and-home set, beginning at the Air Canada Centre. The Sabres, who woke up on Saturday in a virtual tie for the No. 8 seed with Washington, have everything to play for. The Maple Leafs? Well, they’re just trying to get it all over with.

On the Marcus

A lot of players have chipped in as resurgent Buffalo has stormed back into the playoff race, but one that might get lost in the shuffle is left wing Marcus Foligno, who has infused plenty of youth and energy into the mix.

Called up from Rochester of the American Hockey League on March 9, Foligno had six goals, 10 points and was a plus-8 prior to Friday's game versus Pittsburgh. At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, he is precisely the presence that the Sabres need to create traffic in front of the net, and had 13 shots on goal this month before the Penguins game.

It doesn't appear as if he's going back to Rochester anytime soon.

Baseball’s in the air

Things took a turn for the ugly at Air Canada Centre Thursday, as the Maple Leafs stumbled through yet another loss to a team that is headed to the postseason. This time, it was Philadelphia which took its whacks, rolling to a 7-1 victory as the Flyers chase the Penguins for the No. 4 seed in the East.

Wayne Simmonds scored twice for the Flyers, Sergei Bobrovsky made 16 saves and indeed it was a laugher as the Maple Leafs posted their 11th consecutive home loss.

But it wasn’t funny in the stands. The Maple Leafs’ diehards let the home team know all about their disappointment. At several points in the second and third period, they chanted “Let’s Go Blue Jays!”

Certainly, baseball returns next week and spring is now in the air. But make no mistake: That was a cry for help and a statement that seasons like this just can’t happen in Toronto anymore.

Cancel Christian

The Sabres are continuing with their postseason charge without the services of defenseman Christian Ehrhoff - a key loss at the wrong time of the season. Ehrhoff hurt his left knee in a 5-1 win over Washington Tuesday, and is out indefinitely.

Ehrhoff, one of several big-name, big-money acquisitions last summer for new owner Terry Pegula, has had his ups and downs in his first season with Buffalo, but he was coming on down the stretch. He has five goals and 32 points and was working on erasing a minus-2 rating at the time of the injury.

He’s also a veteran presence who has helped because he’s been through all of this before. In fact, he helped the Canucks to the Stanley Cup Finals last season, so he will be missed.

History

Buffalo has dropped the last four chapters of this rivalry in Toronto and the home team, overall, has won the last six in this series. Also, the last three games between these two - including a 3-2 Sabres' win on Jan. 13 - have gone under.

Calgary Flames at Vancouver Canucks (N/A)

Another great rivalry is the nightcap headliner, as the Canucks continue to mold into postseason form. The Flames have incentive and are still in the chase for the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference. And, while it is unlikely that Calgary snares that seed, expect a solid effort here in front of a national audience.

Shutout Central

Most people would point to defense and goaltending as the primary factors for the Canucks wasting away a 3-2 series lead in the Stanley Cup Finals to Boston last season. While they have some work to do to get back to the final, their game is headed in the right direction as the postseason nears.

Goaltenders Cory Schneider and Roberto Luongo each recorded 1-0 shutouts this week - the former over Colorado and the latter over Los Angeles. They occurred in a three-day span and sent a combined message that Vancouver is ready to roll.

The win over the Avalanche Thursday was Vancouver's fourth straight overall and the Canucks were still in the mix for the No. 1 seed in the West, as they took on Dallas at home Friday night.

Career year for Curtis

While he'd love to take the rest of the year to knock down his plus-minus rating - it was at minus-9 through Thursday night - even Curtis Glencross would have to be happy with his season overall.

Entering Friday's game against Colorado, the Calgary left wing had 25 goals, 46 points and 60 penalty minutes.

He's in a bit of a drought right now (ever since a seven-game goal streak ended on March 11) but there's still time to get to 30 goals - a feat he's never reached. Not a bad thought for an undrafted player who has found his way onto four NHL teams since 2006.

Resting Rome

While it doesn't exactly ruin the postseason defensive plans, Vancouver is without Aaron Rome after he suffered a knee injury on a hit from Colorado forward Chuck Kobasew in a 3-2 Canucks' win last Saturday. Rome is expected to miss another week.

It's been a decent year for the defenseman, but he'll probably be the seventh or eighth defenseman on the postseason roster, so it’s not the end of the world. And he should be healthy by the time the first round rolls around.

Though he is just a minus-4 as of now, Rome has four goals and 10 points this season.

History

The Canucks have won nine of the last 12 installments of this rivalry, though the Flames posted a 3-2 shootout win on Feb. 11. Twenty overs have hit in the last 34 games between these two.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:37 AM

NHL

Saturday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ice picks: Saturday's best NHL bets
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Boston Bruins at New York Islanders (+130, 5.5)

The Boston Bruins have clinched a playoff position to defend their Stanley Cup title, but need to fine tune their game in the coming games. While the Islanders are nowhere near playoff contention, they aren’t going to make it easy on the B’s.

New York just swept a home-and-home with Pittsburgh, outscoring the high-powered Pens 10-5.

Meanwhile, Boston fell two goals behind Washington on Thursday but rallied to earn a point in a 3-2 shootout loss.

"It's a disappointing loss, but I liked the way we came back," center David Krejci told reporters "We kind of dug ourselves a hole in the third period, but we battled through it and came back. But too bad we didn't get it done. We just try to take the positive out of this game and move on."

Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas was a little shaky in that loss and was visibly upset after the game. We could see the Isles stealing one here before Boston faces the Rangers Sunday.

Pick: Islanders

Winnipeg Jets at Tampa Bay Lightning (-120, 5.5)

The Winnipeg Jets kept their faint playoff hopes alive with a 4-3 overtime victory at Carolina on Friday to start a four-game road trip. The Jets are six points out of eighth place with four games left as they travel to play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday.

Winnipeg has allowed 31 goals the last seven games, a big reason why it won’t likely have a postseason. Some of the Jets’ top scorers have also struggled of late. Blake Wheeler has no goals in nine games, Evander Kane has one in eight and defenseman Dustin Byfuglien only has one point in seven games. Andrew Ladd broke a six-game goal draught by scoring the winner in over Carolina.

But with the way Winnipeg has played defensively, Tampa Bay's Steven Stamkos could have a field day. He hasn't slowed down at all, with five goals in his last four games.

Pick: Over

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:41 AM

NBA

Saturday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
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3:30 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. LA LAKERS
The total has gone OVER in 11 of New Orleans's last 15 games when playing on the road against LA Lakers
The total has gone OVER in 9 of New Orleans's last 13 games when playing LA Lakers
LA Lakers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 9 of the LA Lakers last 13 games when playing New Orleans

7:30 PM
CHARLOTTE vs. DETROIT
Charlotte is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Charlotte is 2-20 SU in its last 22 games on the road
Detroit is 17-7 SU in its last 24 games when playing Charlotte
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing at home against Charlotte

7:30 PM
CLEVELAND vs. NEW YORK
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games on the road
Cleveland is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 7 of New York's last 8 games when playing Cleveland
New York is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Cleveland

7:30 PM
ATLANTA vs. PHILADELPHIA
Atlanta is 6-17 SU in its last 23 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Atlanta is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 8 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Philadelphia's last 21 games at home

8:30 PM
INDIANA vs. SAN ANTONIO
Indiana is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 6 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone OVER in 6 of San Antonio's last 9 games when playing at home against Indiana
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Indiana

8:30 PM
MEMPHIS vs. MILWAUKEE
Memphis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Memphis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 14 of Milwaukee's last 19 games
Milwaukee is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against Memphis

10:00 PM
NEW JERSEY vs. SACRAMENTO
New Jersey is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
New Jersey is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Sacramento's last 9 games when playing New Jersey
Sacramento is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New Jersey

10:30 PM
UTAH vs. LA CLIPPERS
Utah is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Utah's last 7 games
LA Clippers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing at home against Utah
LA Clippers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Utah

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:44 AM

NBA

Saturday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pick 'n' roll: Saturday's best NBA bets
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Oddsmakers have yet to post a line for Saturday's Hornets-Lakers matchup. Pick should be considered an early lean.

Indiana Pacers and San Antonio Spurs (-8, 202.5)

The San Antonio Spurs were supposed to be too old and too slow to keep up this season, especially with the condensed schedule.

Right now, it seems like they’re only getting stronger as the grueling season wears on.

Five Spurs scored in double figures in Wednesday’s 117-112 win over Sacramento, marking the club’s sixth straight win – five of which have come over the last six days.

"This is as deep as I've had a team here," Tim Duncan told reporters after chipping in with 18 points and eight rebounds to help the Spurs improve to 5-1 against the spread during the winning streak. "We're using everybody possible and it's been great, especially with this condensed season. Different kind of format and obviously some of the marquee guys are a bit older.”

San Antonio has finally had a couple days to recover, while Indianapolis has dropped four of its last six against the number.

Pick: Spurs

New Orleans Hornets at Los Angeles Lakers (N/A)

Considering the Hornets are having a tough time getting five healthy bodies on the floor right now, they’ve been a great bet lately.

Starting point guard Jarrett Jack (ankle) joined Trevor Ariza, Chris Kaman, Emeka Okafor, Gustavo Ayon and Eric Gordon on the shelf in Thursday’s 99-93 loss to Portland, but the Hornets still covered the number as 8.5-point underdogs.

Marco Belinelli had a huge night, pouring in 27 points while hitting seven of his 11 attempts from distance.

"Our guys fought the whole night, and that's all you can ask," coach Monty Williams told reporters. "We had a chance to win but couldn't pull it out when we needed to. Maybe it was fatigue."

New Orleans plays it fourth contest of its five-game road swing against the Lakers, who should be able to exploit the Hornets’ short bench.

Pick: Lakers

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:50 AM

NHL
Long Sheet

Saturday, March 31

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OTTAWA (39-28-0-10, 88 pts.) at PHILADELPHIA (45-24-0-8, 98 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 1:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OTTAWA is 14-7 ATS (+21.5 Units) after a win by 2 goals or more this season.
OTTAWA is 18-11 ATS (+29.5 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game this season.
OTTAWA is 18-16 ATS (+38.9 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 39-36 ATS (-10.8 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 69-82 ATS (-87.5 Units) in home games revenging a loss versus opponent since 1996.
PHILADELPHIA is 2-7 ATS (-8.4 Units) in home games after a win by 2 goals or more this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 5-11 ATS (-11.3 Units) in home games after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 25-25 ATS (-17.3 Units) in home games second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
OTTAWA is 6-5 (+2.7 Units) against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
OTTAWA is 6-5-0 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.8 Units)

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BOSTON (45-28-0-4, 94 pts.) at NY ISLANDERS (33-33-0-11, 77 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 1:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 19-19 ATS (-16.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
BOSTON is 6-12 ATS (-15.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
BOSTON is 21-21 ATS (-14.6 Units) second half of the season this season.
BOSTON is 22-27 ATS (-16.2 Units) on Saturday games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 141-124 ATS (+272.0 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 7-4 (+0.2 Units) against the spread versus NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 7-4-0 straight up against NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 11 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.1 Units)

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NEW JERSEY (44-28-0-6, 94 pts.) at CAROLINA (31-31-0-16, 78 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 44-33 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 25-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 51-35 ATS (+7.1 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 8-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games on Saturday games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 20-13 ATS (+33.6 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
CAROLINA is 3-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home games when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 4-18 ATS (+31.7 Units) after a division game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW JERSEY is 8-3 (+4.5 Units) against the spread versus CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY is 8-3-0 straight up against CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+2.2 Units)

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MONTREAL (29-35-0-14, 72 pts.) at WASHINGTON (39-31-0-8, 86 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 28-49 ATS (+78.7 Units) in all games this season.
MONTREAL is 16-30 ATS (+47.1 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
MONTREAL is 7-16 ATS (+23.0 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
MONTREAL is 5-19 ATS (+25.8 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
MONTREAL is 21-13 ATS (+35.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.
MONTREAL is 26-17 ATS (+43.5 Units) on Saturday games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MONTREAL is 7-11 (+2.5 Units) against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 11-7-0 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
10 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+5.0 Units)

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BUFFALO (38-30-0-10, 86 pts.) at TORONTO (33-36-0-9, 75 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
BUFFALO is 10-6 (+3.1 Units) against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
BUFFALO is 10-6-0 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
10 of 16 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.8 Units)

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WINNIPEG (36-34-0-8, 80 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (35-35-0-7, 77 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WINNIPEG is 1-11 ATS (+18.5 Units) when playing on back-to-back days this season.
TAMPA BAY is 92-84 ATS (+202.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 249-340 ATS (+663.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 12-4 (+7.9 Units) against the spread versus WINNIPEG over the last 3 seasons
TAMPA BAY is 12-4-0 straight up against WINNIPEG over the last 3 seasons
9 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.3 Units)

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LOS ANGELES (39-27-0-12, 90 pts.) at MINNESOTA (32-35-0-10, 74 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 38-39 ATS (-11.0 Units) in all games this season.
LOS ANGELES is 8-14 ATS (-10.1 Units) on Saturday games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LOS ANGELES is 6-5-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+2.1 Units)

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COLUMBUS (26-45-0-7, 59 pts.) at ST LOUIS (48-20-0-10, 106 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
COLUMBUS is 91-150 ATS (+275.0 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 10-34 ATS (+68.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
COLUMBUS is 4-19 ATS (+36.9 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
ST LOUIS is 48-30 ATS (+93.0 Units) in all games this season.
ST LOUIS is 22-6 ATS (+13.9 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5 or less this season.
ST LOUIS is 24-7 ATS (+15.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
ST LOUIS is 38-17 ATS (+14.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 16-3 ATS (+11.0 Units) in home games second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 11-6 (+2.9 Units) against the spread versus COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
ST LOUIS is 11-6-0 straight up against COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+3.0 Units)

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CHICAGO (43-26-0-9, 95 pts.) at NASHVILLE (45-25-0-8, 98 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 4-11 ATS (-9.2 Units) revenging a home loss versus opponent this season.
CHICAGO is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) in road games revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 6-14 ATS (-8.2 Units) in road games second half of the season this season.
NASHVILLE is 44-33 ATS (-1.7 Units) in all games this season.
NASHVILLE is 24-8 ATS (+15.5 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 24-18 ATS (+3.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NASHVILLE is 25-15 ATS (+3.5 Units) second half of the season this season.
NASHVILLE is 29-16 ATS (+9.3 Units) on Saturday games over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 16-7 ATS (+23.9 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
NASHVILLE is 15-7 ATS (+7.4 Units) after a division game this season.
CHICAGO is 95-87 ATS (+192.8 Units) in road games after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.
CHICAGO is 308-329 ATS (+694.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
NASHVILLE is 11-12 (+2.8 Units) against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 12-11-0 straight up against NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
12 of 20 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.0 Units)

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ANAHEIM (33-33-0-11, 77 pts.) at PHOENIX (38-27-0-13, 89 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ANAHEIM is 32-44 ATS (+76.1 Units) in all games this season.
ANAHEIM is 2-10 ATS (+14.0 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5 or less this season.
PHOENIX is 133-119 ATS (+10.9 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 14-7 ATS (+21.2 Units) after a division game this season.
PHOENIX is 30-23 ATS (+5.6 Units) revenging a home loss versus opponent over the last 3 seasons.
ANAHEIM is 21-8 ATS (+10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
ANAHEIM is 52-35 ATS (+14.9 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
ANAHEIM is 19-12 ATS (+31.2 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 2-7 ATS (-6.5 Units) in home games after shutting out their opponent in their previous game over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 6-16 ATS (-16.1 Units) in home games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 12-16 ATS (-8.0 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 66-70 ATS (-53.7 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 9-8-0 straight up against ANAHEIM over the last 3 seasons
8 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=-0.6 Units, Under=-1.0 Units)

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CALGARY (35-29-0-15, 85 pts.) at VANCOUVER (48-21-0-9, 105 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 10:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
VANCOUVER is 10-6-0 straight up against CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
10 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+6.2 Units)

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DALLAS (42-31-0-5, 89 pts.) at SAN JOSE (39-29-0-10, 88 pts.) - 3/31/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 1-12 ATS (+16.7 Units) when playing on back-to-back days this season.
DALLAS is 42-35 ATS (+78.4 Units) in all games this season.
DALLAS is 16-8 ATS (+7.4 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
DALLAS is 14-7 ATS (+6.6 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
SAN JOSE is 39-39 ATS (+81.3 Units) in all games this season.
SAN JOSE is 14-21 ATS (-21.8 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
SAN JOSE is 20-24 ATS (-22.6 Units) second half of the season this season.
SAN JOSE is 8-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
SAN JOSE is 116-107 ATS (-64.8 Units) in home games after a division game since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 8-8 (+3.1 Units) against the spread versus SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
SAN JOSE is 8-8-0 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+2.6 Units)

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 09:53 AM

NBA
Long Sheet

Saturday, March 31

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

NEW ORLEANS (13 - 38) at LA LAKERS (31 - 20) - 3/31/2012, 3:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 8-6 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 11-3 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
9 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CLEVELAND (17 - 32) at NEW YORK (26 - 26) - 3/31/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 120-155 ATS (-50.5 Units) after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.
NEW YORK is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in home games second half of the season this season.

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

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

ATLANTA (31 - 22) at PHILADELPHIA (28 - 23) - 3/31/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 35-58 ATS (-28.8 Units) in road games on Saturday games since 1996.
ATLANTA is 145-183 ATS (-56.3 Units) in road games revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
ATLANTA is 137-175 ATS (-55.5 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.
ATLANTA is 41-67 ATS (-32.7 Units) in road games versus good defensive teams - allowing <=91 points/game since 1996.
ATLANTA is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) in road games versus good defensive teams - allowing <=91 points/game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
PHILADELPHIA is 76-61 ATS (+8.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 23-14 ATS (+7.6 Units) as a favorite this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 6 points over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 6-3 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 5-4 straight up against ATLANTA 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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CHARLOTTE (7 - 42) at DETROIT (18 - 33) - 3/31/2012, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 7-2 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 5-4 straight up against CHARLOTTE 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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MEMPHIS (27 - 22) at MILWAUKEE (24 - 27) - 3/31/2012, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 120-97 ATS (+13.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 30-13 ATS (+15.7 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 82-60 ATS (+16.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 39-25 ATS (+11.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 26-6 ATS (+19.4 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 16-29 ATS (-15.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) after allowing 85 points or less over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 3-1 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
MILWAUKEE is 2-2 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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INDIANA (30 - 20) at SAN ANTONIO (35 - 14) - 3/31/2012, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 9-25 ATS (-18.5 Units) as a road underdog of 6.5 to 9 points over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 30-18 ATS (+10.2 Units) in all games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 572-493 ATS (+29.7 Units) as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in home games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 19-7 ATS (+11.3 Units) second half of the season this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 144-106 ATS (+27.4 Units) in March games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 125-93 ATS (+22.7 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 3-1 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 4-0 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NEW JERSEY (18 - 35) at SACRAMENTO (18 - 33) - 3/31/2012, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 59-74 ATS (-22.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 81-102 ATS (-31.2 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 24-38 ATS (-17.8 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 21-36 ATS (-18.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 35-52 ATS (-22.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
SACRAMENTO is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) in home games on Saturday games since 1996.
SACRAMENTO is 12-26 ATS (-16.6 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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UTAH (27 - 25) at LA CLIPPERS (30 - 21) - 3/31/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 40-60 ATS (-26.0 Units) second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 0-9 ATS (-9.9 Units) after playing 3 consecutive home games this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 25-48 ATS (-27.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 128-180 ATS (-70.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.

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

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**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 10:13 AM

NBA
Dunkel

New Jersey at Sacramento
The Kings look to take advantage of a New Jersey team that is coming off a 102-100 win over Golden State and is 5-12 ATS in its last 17 games following a SU victory. Sacramento is the pick (-6) according to Dunkel, which has the Kings favored by 10. Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (-6). Here are all of today's picks

SATURDAY, MARCH 31

Game 801-802: New Orleans at LA Lakers (3:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 111.163; LA Lakers 125.507
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Lakers by 14 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: LA Lakers by 11; No Total
Dunkel Pick: LA Lakers (-11); N/A

Game 803-804: Cleveland at New York (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 111.627; New York 120.217
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 8 1/2; 190
Vegas Line & Total: New York by 9 1/2; 193
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+9 1/2); Under

Game 805-806: Atlanta at Philadelphia (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 115.894; Philadelphia 125.412
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 9 1/2; 182
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia by 6; 177 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-6); Over

Game 807-808: Charlotte at Detroit (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Charlotte 108.437; Detroit 113.853
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 5 1/2; 181
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit by 7; No Total
Dunkel Pick: Charlotte (+7); N/A

Game 809-810: Memphis at Milwaukee (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Memphis 115.806; Milwaukee 125.354
Dunkel Line & Total: Milwaukee by 9 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: Milwaukee by 2; 203 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Milwaukee (-2); Under

Game 811-812: Indiana at San Antonio (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 120.792; San Antonio 127.148
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 6 1/2; 207
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 8; 202 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (+8); Over

Game 813-814: New Jersey at Sacramento (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 111.779; Sacramento 121.776
Dunkel Line & Total: Sacramento by 10; 213
Vegas Line & Total: Sacramento by 6; 209 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (-6); Over

Game 815-816: Utah at LA Clippers (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 119.177; LA Clippers 123.296
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 4; 188
Vegas Line & Total: LA Clippers by 6; 192
Dunkel Pick: Utah (+6); Under

**Udog** · 03-31-2012, 12:58 PM

NBA
Short Sheet

Saturday, March 31

NEW ORLEANS at LA LAKERS, 3:35 PM ET
NEW ORLEANS: 17-7 ATS as road underdog
LA LAKERS: 0-4 ATS on Saturday

CLEVELAND at NEW YORK, 7:35 PM ET
CLEVELAND: 5-13 ATS revenging double digit loss
NEW YORK: 13-4 Under playing on back to back days

ATLANTA at PHILADELPHIA, 7:35 PM ET
ATLANTA: 13-4 Under as road underdog
PHILADELPHIA: 17-5 Under off a loss

CHARLOTTE at DETROIT, 7:35 PM ET
CHARLOTTE: 4-14 ATS w/ same season revenge
DETROIT: 1-6 ATS off division loss

MEMPHIS at MILWAUKEE, 8:35 PM ET
MEMPHIS: 26-6 ATS playing on back to back days
MILWAUKEE: 5-15 ATS after allowing 85 pts or less

INDIANA at SAN ANTONIO, 8:35 PM ET
INDIANA: 9-25 ATS as a road underdog of 6.5 to 9 points
SAN ANTONIO: 12-1 Over if favored L4 games

NEW JERSEY at SACRAMENTO, 10:05 PM ET
NEW JERSEY: 4-12 ATS off SU win
SACRAMENTO: 8-0 Over off a road win by 3 points or less

UTAH at LA CLIPPERS, 10:35 PM ET
UTAH: 47-29 ATS playing their 3rd game in 4 days
LA CLIPPERS: 13-3 Under playing at home on back to back days

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

Announcement

Saturday's Trends and Indexes - 3/31 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

Saturday's Trends and Indexes - 3/31 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

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