The Bum's NBA Championship Best Bets !

[StarDust Bum]

Friday, May 4

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Atlanta - 7:30 PM ET Atlanta +8 500

Boston - Over 173.5 500

Chicago - 8:00 PM ET Philadelphia -1.5 500

Philadelphia - Under 179 500

L.A. Lakers - 10:30 PM ET Denver -3.5 500

Denver - Over 204 500

[StarDust Bum]

Magic attempt to even series with Pacers Saturday


NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 3 INDIANA PACERS

at No. 6 ORLANDO MAGIC


Eastern Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 - Indiana leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Saturday, 2:05 p.m. ET
Line: Indiana -5, Total: 181

After two straight lopsided losses, the Magic try to even up their series with the Pacers on Saturday afternoon.

The Magic’s offense has been absolutely dreadful in the past two games, scoring 76.0 PPG on 38.8% FG and 13-of-40 threes (32.5%). However, the Pacers are still struggling with their offense too, averaging only 89.0 PPG on 41.2% FG. Can the Magic even this series at 2-2 on Saturday? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. Through Thursday, ******* Brian has an outstanding 13-6 ATS mark (68.4%) in the playoffs, including a 9-2 ATS record since Monday. ******* Dave had a perfect 2-0 Thursday to improve his playoff record to 11-8 ATS (58%).

All the Pacers have contributed nicely during this series, especially in the past two wins, prevailing 93-78 and 97-74. SF Danny Granger (20.3 PPG in series) shot just 34% (3-of-14 threes) in the first two games, but he found his rhythm in Game 3 with 26 points (9-of-16 FG, 5-of-9 threes) and nine rebounds. PF David West (13.7 PPG, 9.3 RPG in series) was just the opposite, with two great games (18.5 PPG, 10.0 RPG) followed by a dud in Game 3 (4 points, 2-of-9 FG). C Roy Hibbert (10.0 PPG, 12.0 RPG in series) has made his presence felt down low with 10+ rebounds in each game and a whopping 14 blocks for the series. And the backcourt of George Hill and Paul George both had strong showings in Game 3, combining for 27 points, six assists and just two turnovers. Hill tallied a +26 rating while George grabbed seven boards. Indiana is 20-14 SU (18-16 ATS) on the road this year, including 10-5 SU (7-8 ATS) as a road favorite.

PF Glen Davis is the only Magic starter producing consistently (18.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG in series), but he’s making just 42.6% FG. Orlando’s two starting forwards, Ryan Anderson and Hedo Turkoglu have shot horribly all series. Turkoglu is actually 4-for-7 from three-point range, but a comical 5-for-18 (27.8%) from inside the arc. Anderson can’t find the ocean right now. After averaging 16.1 PPG on 44% FG in the regular season, he has just 7.7 PPG on 32% FG so far this series. SG Jason Richardson has also disappeared since his great Game 1 showing (17 points, 5-of-8 threes). He’s scored a total of seven points on 3-of-13 shooting (0-for-4 threes) in the two losses combined. PG Jameer Nelson has also played poorly in his past two games, making just 7-of-23 shots with eight assists and five turnovers. The Magic are 21-13 SU (17-17 ATS) at home this season, including 3-4 (SU and ATS) as an underdog.

[StarDust Bum]

Thunder go for sweep of Mavs on Saturday

NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 2 OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER

at No. 7 DALLAS MAVERICKS


Western Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 - Oklahoma City leads series 3-0
Tip-off: Saturday, 7:35 p.m. ET
Line: Oklahoma City -1½, Total: 193½

The Thunder look to sweep the defending champion Mavericks off their home floor when the teams meet in Saturday’s Game 4.

After two competitive games in Oklahoma City, Dallas could not get it going in Thursday’s 95-79 loss. The Mavs shot just 34.2% FG as the Thunder drained 12-of-28 threes and led by 18 points after three quarters. Can the Mavericks avoid the sweep on Saturday night? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-6 ATS mark (68.4%) in the playoffs, including a 9-2 ATS record since Monday. ******* Dave had a perfect 2-0 Thursday to improve his playoff record to 11-8 ATS (58%).

The Thunder are 22-12 SU (19-15 ATS) on the road and are 6-1 SU, but just 2-5 ATS, in seven meetings with Dallas this season. In addition to Durant’s heroics, PG Russell Westbrook has also had a monster series with 25.7 PPG on 49.2% FG and 4-of-9 threes. The only negative is his ball distribution, as Westbrook has just 11 assists and 10 turnovers in the three games. SF James Harden is not shooting anywhere near what he’s capable of (49.1% FG in regular season) at 5-for-17 FG in the past two games. His other numbers have been good though during this two-game stretch: 12.5 PPG (14-of-16 FT), 5.5 RPG and 4.5 APG. PF Serge Ibaka has had two quality games (16.0 PPG, 8.5 PPG) sandwiched around a dud Game 2 (2 points, 4 rebounds). Seldom-used SG Daequan Cook provided a nice spark in Game 3 by scoring nine points (3-of-6 threes) in just 11 minutes.

The Mavericks are shooting just 39.9% FG during this series with C Ian Mahinmi (60% FG) the only player making more than half of his shots. Nowitzki is 0-for-5 from three-point range in the series and actually missed three foul shots in Game 3 (5-for-8 FT) despite making 90% of his free throws in the regular season. SG Jason Terry has gone cold in a hurry, making just 8-of-22 shots in the past two losses after an 8-for-10 shooting performance in Game 1. Terry dished out six assists in Game 3, but had four turnovers too. Three other usually reliable veterans also had poor shooting nights on Thursday. SF Shawn Marion was 1-for-8 from the floor, SG Vince Carter went 2-for-8 and PG Jason Kidd made just 4-of-12 shots. This trio posted ratings of -22, -18 and -15 respectively.

[StarDust Bum]

Spurs aim for 3-0 series lead at Utah Saturday

NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 1 SAN ANTONIO SPURS

at No. 8 UTAH JAZZ


Western Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 3 – San Antonio leads series 2-0
Tip-off: Saturday, 10:05 p.m. ET
Line: San Antonio -5½, Total: 202

The Spurs continue to roll, seeking a 13th straight victory when their first-round series shifts to Utah on Saturday night.

The first two games in this series were both blowouts, with San Antonio taking Game 1 106-91 and winning Game 2 by 31 points, 114-83. The Spurs are now 8-1 SU (6-2-1 ATS) versus the Jazz over the past two seasons. But Utah is an excellent home team at 25-8 (19-13 ATS), averaging 101.9 PPG at EnergySolutions Arena this season. Can the Jazz earn a series-saving victory on their home floor? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-6 ATS mark (68.4%) in the playoffs, including a 9-2 ATS record since Monday. ******* Dave had a perfect 2-0 Thursday to improve his playoff record to 11-8 ATS (58%).

San Antonio is a tremendous 22-11 SU (20-12-1 ATS) on the road, scoring 101.6 PPG away from home this season. So far in the series, the team is averaging 110.0 PPG on 52.4% FG and 41.0% threes. PG Tony Parker has been unstoppable with 23.0 PPG (55.2% FG), 8.5 APG and just 1.5 TOPG. C Tim Duncan has also loomed large despite the young and talented Utah big men guarding him. Duncan has 14.5 PPG (50% FG), 12.0 RPG and 3.0 APG in the series so far. And it’s just a matter of time before SG Manu Ginobili (53% FG in regular season) starts to heat up. He’s making just 31.3% of his shots (5-for-16) in the series, including 0-for-6 from downtown. But the Spurs have had plenty of other weapons to pick him up. SF Kawhi Leonard has 11.5 PPG on 8-of-12 shooting, PF Boris Diaw is chipping in 10.0 PPG (9-for-11 FG) and 5.5 RPG, and SG Stephen Jackson has 9.5 PPG, making 3-of-6 threes so far in this series.

PF Paul Millsap (14.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG in series) is really the only Utah player performing up to his capabilities this series though, making 48% of his shots. C Al Jefferson has just 13.0 PPG and 6.5 RPG in the two games, a far cry from his 19.2 PPG and 9.6 RPG during the regular season. He had just 10 points (5-of-15 FG) and four rebounds in 30 minutes of action in Game 2. PF Derrick Favors has done a nice job on the glass, grabbing 17 rebounds in the two games, including seven on the offensive end. He could see more minutes (23.5 MPG in series) on Saturday as the Jazz look to beef up their interior even more. Utah’s guards have been completely ineffective in the two games. SG Gordon Hayward (31% FG), PG Devin Harris (31% FG) and PG Jamaal Tinsley (29% FG) have all disappointed. Harris has a pathetic three assists and seven turnovers in 49 minutes in this series.

[StarDust Bum]

Grizzlies seek rare road win over Clippers Saturday


NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 4 MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

at No. 5 LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS


Western Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 3 – Series tied 1-1
Tip-off: Saturday, 4:35 p.m. ET
Line: Los Angeles -3, Total: 187½

The Grizzlies rebounded from Game 1’s stunning collapse with a victory, sending the series to Los Angeles for a pivotal Game 3 on Saturday afternoon.

Not only is Memphis 15-18 SU (13-19-1 ATS) on the road, but it is just 2-9 SU (4-7 ATS) in the past six seasons when visiting the Clippers. However, the Grizzlies controlled the paint in Wednesday’s Game 2 victory. They outrebounded the Clips 37-28 and shot 39 free throws compared to just 18 for Los Angeles. Which team will prevail on Saturday? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-6 ATS mark (68.4%) in the playoffs, including a 9-2 ATS record since Monday. ******* Dave had a perfect 2-0 Thursday to improve his playoff record to 11-8 ATS (58%).

SF Rudy Gay leads the team with 20.0 PPG (52% FG) in the series, and has also done a nice job defensively with 6.0 RPG and three steals. SG O.J. Mayo (18.5 PPG in series) is looking to stay hot after a huge performance in Game 2, coming off the bench to knock down 20 points in 24 minutes. SG Tony Allen (8.0 PPG in series) has been bothered by a knee injury, but still played his typical relentless defense, racking up three steals and two blocks. The Grizzlies are still looking for more out of their big men, C Marc Gasol and PF Zach Randolph. Gasol averaged 14.6 PPG and 8.9 RPG in the regular season, but those numbers have plummeted to 11.0 PPG and 5.5 RPG in this series. Randolph has just 10.5 PPG in the series (17.3 PPG in career) and is shooting only 9-for-24 FG (37.5%). But he had some big moments in Game 2, finishing with 15 points, eight rebounds and two of his team’s 13 steals. PG Mike Conley (2.2 SPG in regular season) has not yet recorded a steal, but his offense has been great with 18.0 PPG, 7.0 APG and just 2.0 TOPG in the series so far.

The Clippers hung around in Game 2 by completely outshooting Memphis from downtown (56% threes to 17% threes), but were done in by 20 turnovers. L.A.’s dynamic duo of PG Chris Paul and PF Blake Griffin have turned the ball over a combined 15 times in the series, but are both shooting well over 50 percent from the floor. Paul has a team-high 21.5 PPG (52% FG) and 8.5 APG in the series while Griffin has 19.5 PPG (53% FG) and 8.0 RPG in the two games. Although Paul has been a bit careless with the basketball, he had no such trouble controlling games at home this year, with an amazing 5.2 assist-to-turnover ratio (10.0 APG, 1.9 TOPG). SG Nick Young has shot lights-out in the series, scoring 15.0 PPG on 63% FG and 6-of-7 threes. Backup PG Mo Williams has also provided instant offense with 20 points (7-of-14 FG) in just 37 minutes of action over the two games.

[StarDust Bum]

Saturday's NBA action

May 5, 2012

San Antonio Spurs look to continue dominance over Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz hope their passionate home crowd can bring good luck and drastic changes in a series that is quickly getting away from them. The San Antonio Spurs have dominated the series so far, winning the first two games by an average of 23 points. When the Jazz go home to the Energy Solutions Arena, the series will be on the line, as falling down three games to none will be a death knell. That kind of desperation from Utah will make a bet on the NBA Playoffs that much more exciting. Point guard Tony Parker of the Spurs has been particularly effective, averaging 23 points per game and 8.5 assists to just 1.5 turnovers. If game 3 weren't such a blowout, Parker's numbers would be even more impressive.

Game 3 saw the Spurs jump out to a 25-point lead at halftime. The Jazz never had a shot, though at least the eventual 114-83 loss made the 15-point game 1 loss look a little better.

On the series, the Spurs are shooting 52 percent from the field, compared to just 38 percent by the Jazz. So far, Utah has looked completely outmatched by the veteran and driven Spurs.

The upcoming game on Saturday night is the most important game of the year for Utah. A loss would mean certain defeat, as no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in the NBA to win a series. A win would help soothe the massive losses of the first two games, and show that Utah actually belongs on the same court with Tim Duncan and company.

Use the upcoming Jazz and Spurs match up for your bet on the NBA Playoffs. The way things are going it could be one of the final times you get the chance to bet on the Utah Jazz.

BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker sportsbook!

Dallas Mavericks face elimination in game four against Oklahoma City Thunder

Many had the Dallas Mavericks contending in their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder thanks to their veteran experience and knowledge gained from their win over the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals a year ago. However, with three games down, the Mavericks find themselves on the brink of elimination. While the games have largely been close enough to keep your fingernails low, the Thunder enter game four with a 3-0 lead. It's the perfect time to bet on the NBA Playoffs if you want to use your wager on the Dallas Mavericks.

The Mavs were a couple of bounces off the rim from being up 2-0 on their way back to Dallas for game three. However, Durant got the roll in the game winner in game one, and the Mavs simply could not knock down the big shot in game two to preserve the victory.

Game three, however, looked to truly take the wind out of the Dallas sail. The Thunder, after winning the first two games by a mere 4 points combined, took home their third win of the series by the score of 95-79.

Kevin Durant had an elite night, scoring 31 points on 11 of 15 shooting, including 4 of 6 from beyond the arc. He carried the rest of the squad who, combined, shot just 35 percent from the field.

The entire Dallas team actually managed to shoot at a lesser clip than that, at 34.2 percent. The Mavs simply could not buy a bucket. Even on a night when the defense showed up, Dallas could not put it all together.

Considering the current series standing and the direction each game has gone, I would not be surprised to see the Thunder put their foot down and supply the mortal blow to the Dallas Mavericks. Use OKC for your NBA Playoff bet, and watch as the cash flows into your pocket.

BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker sportsbook!

[StarDust Bum]

Date WLT Pct Net Units Record

05/04/12 5-*1-*0 83.33% +*1950 Detail
05/03/12 2-*2-*0 50.00% -*100 Detail
05/02/12 2-*4-*0 33.33% -*1200 Detail
05/01/12 3-*3-*0 50.00% -*150 Detail

Totals 12-*10-*0 54.55% +500

Saturday, May 5

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Indiana - 2:00 PM ET Orlando +5 500
Orlando - Over 181.5 500

Memphis - 4:30 PM ET L.A. Clippers -3 500
L.A. Clippers - Over 187 500

Oklahoma City - 7:30 PM ET Dallas +1.5 500
Dallas - Over 193 500

San Antonio - 10:00 PM ET San Antonio -5.5 500
Utah - Under 202 500

[Kaptain]

KICK SOME ARSE Buddy

[StarDust Bum]

Knicks Face Elimination Against Heat On Sunday

Only one team can be eliminated from contention in the NBA Playoffs on Sunday while the other three series are guaranteed at least a fifth game. Game 4 of four different series will go off this weekend where injuries have been a factor.

Chicago Bulls at Philadelphia 76ers – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. (ET) on ABC

The Bulls are the top seeded team in the entire league and they could be in trouble. Not only did superstar Derrick Rose go down and out, but Joakim Noah (ankle) was injured in Game 3 and is currently listed as doubtful. Chicago played very well in the regular season without Rose, but these injuries may be too much to overcome in the postseason.

Philly leads the series 2-1 and they are also 2-1 against the spread, winning and covering the last two. Center Spencer Hawes was somewhat of an unlikely hero, leading the team in scoring in Game 3 with 21 points.

Low totals have been set throughout this series and the last game was the first to fall ‘under.’ In three games these teams have combined to score 194, 201, and 154. The Sixers are favored by 2½ at home in Game 4 with the total set at 174.

Miami Heat at New York Knicks – Sunday, 3:30 p.m. (ET) on ABC

Affected by the injury bug all year, the New York Knicks find themselves in an 0-3 hole against the odds on favorite to win the championship. Carmelo Anthony had a stellar month of April, but he has had a disappointing series.

Game 3 looked to be going the Knicks’ way. That is, until the fourth quarter when they were outscored 29-14.

The Heat have covered all three games of this series as a favorite and it’s all virtually thanks to LeBron James. James was having a frustrating Game 3 until the final period and ended up with 32 points, eight boards, and five assists.

Only once has the final score gone ‘over’ the total in this series and that was Game 2 when New York could somewhat keep up with Miami. The Heat are an 8-point road favorite in Game 4 with the total at 183½. One way to approach this total might just depend on the Knicks. NY has scored 67, 94, and 70 points this series. If bettors feel New York can keep up, go ‘over.’

Amar’e Stoudemire (hand) is listed as probable on the Don Best screen, but his status for Sunday still appears to be cloudy.

Atlanta Hawks at Boston Celtics – Sunday, 7:00 p.m. (ET) on TNT

NBA fans were treated to the first overtime game of the postseason on Friday when the Celtics beat the Hawks, 90-84 in Game 3. Boston leads the series 2-1 but Atlanta has the 2-1 ATS edge.

Rajon Rondo was stunning in his return from suspension, racking up a triple-double with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 dimes.

For the Hawks, Josh Smith (knee) could not play and that may have been the difference in a tight contest. Smith is probable for Game 4.

Game 3 barely went ‘over’ the total of 173½ and it took OT to get there. At the end of regulation, the combined score was 160. The first two games of the series did fall ‘under.’

Game 4 has Boston -5 with a total of 172.

L.A. Lakers at Denver Nuggets – Sunday, 9:30 p.m. (ET) on TNT

Unlike the Knicks, the Nuggets reached deep down and fought to get a playoff victory after being down in their series, 0-2. The obvious parallel here is the ‘Melo trade which reshaped both teams.

It was a former Wizard, however, who shined in Game 3. The unpredictable JaVale McGee grabbed 15 rebounds and scored 16 points. The point guard position was great for Denver as well between Ty Lawson and veteran Andre Miller.

Though Andrew Bynum had a double-double for the Lakers, he was clearly frustrated in the Mile High City.

L.A. leads the series 2-1, but Denver is 2-1 ATS. High totals are the norm for these two, but Game 2 was the first time in eight meetings (playoffs and regular season) that the total went ‘over.’

The Nuggets are a 2-point favorite in Game 4 with the total set at 201.

Monday, two series will continue and one might be over. All teams are in action on Saturday.

San Antonio Spurs at Utah Jazz – Monday, TBD
Spurs lead 2-0.

Dallas Mavericks at Oklahoma City Thunder (if necessary) – Monday, TBD
Thunder lead 3-0.

Memphis Grizzlies at L.A. Clippers – Monday, 10:30 p.m. (ET) on TNT
Series tied 1-1.

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday Playoff Tips

May 5, 2012

The Sunday NBA playoff card showcases four games, including one team that can advance to the second round with a victory. The Heat has trounced the Knicks in each of the first three matchups, as Miami goes for the sweep of New York. We'll start in the City of Brotherly Love as the 76ers look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the top-seeded Bulls.

Bulls at 76ers - 1:05 PM EST (ABC)

This series turned on a dime when Derrick Rose ripped his left ACL in the series opening win over Philadelphia. The Sixers took advantage of last season's MVP being out with consecutive victories over the Bulls, including a stunning comeback in Friday's 79-74 triumph. Philadelphia can put this series out of reach with a win on Sunday, but duplicating Friday's rally may be tough.

The Sixers overcame a 14-point second half deficit, while outscoring the Bulls, 28-14 in the final quarter. With Rose out indefinitely, Chicago hopes not to lose another starter in Game 4 as Joakim Noah left the game with a sprained ankle. After dropping 109 points in the Game 2 blowout, the Sixers were limited to 34% shooting from the floor and just 1-for-14 from three-point range. However, Richard Hamilton, C.J. Watson, and John Lucas combined to shoot 8-for-31 from the field for 29 points, as Evan Turner, Jrue Holiday, and Lou Williams put together 47 points as a unit.

Philadelphia owns a 2-5 SU/ATS record the last seven games at home off a win, which includes Friday's victory. The Bulls fell to 5-1 SU and 4-2 ATS after squandering Game 3 in the role of a road team coming off a loss, as Chicago will try to get back on track in Sunday's Game 4.

Heat at Knicks - 3:35 PM EST (ABC)

This series has been a complete mismatch from the start, as Miami is one victory away from returning to the conference semifinals. Each of the Heat's first three victories has come by double-digits, including an 87-70 rout of the Knicks at Madison Square Garden in Thursday's Game 3 as 5 ½-point favorites.

Amar'e Stoudemire sat out Game 3 after using a glass casing holding a fire extinguisher as a punching bag, lacerating his left hand in the process. Miami's defense suffocated New York's inconsistent offense by holding the Knicks to just 30 second half points, while the Heat drilled 11 treys in the blowout. LeBron James led the Heat with 32 points, as Carmelo Anthony's 22 points on 7-for-23 shooting wasn't enough, keeping the Knicks winless in the postseason since 2001.

The Knicks own a 1-3 SU/ATS record as a home underdog off a loss this season, but New York has won and covered three straight at home following a home defeat. Miami is 1-3 SU and 0-4 ATS the last four opportunities on the highway off a road win, while putting together a 3-1 SU and 2-2 ATS ledger last postseason when looking to advance.

Hawks at Celtics - 7:05 PM EST (TNT)

Atlanta forced overtime in Game 3 by rallying from an 11-point deficit with seven minutes remaining in regulation. The Hawks came up short in the extra session, but covered as eight-point road underdogs in a 90-84 defeat. Boston has an opportunity to grab a 3-1 series lead on Sunday, as the Celtics were helped out in Game 3 by receiving two starters back in the lineup.

Rajon Rondo missed the Game 2 win in Atlanta after being suspended for bumping an official in the series opener, but the All-Star point guard put up another triple-double for the Celtics (17 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 assists). Ray Allen came off the bench to chip in 13 points after sitting out the first two contests in this series due to a lingering ankle injury. Joe Johnson knocked down the game-tying three-pointer to send the game into OT, but the Hawks' leading scorer shot just 11-for-28 from the field for a game-high 29 points.

Atlanta has cashed in four of the last five chances on the road off a loss, including in Friday's Game 3. The series finally saw its first 'over,' after the 'under' hit in the first two contests, as the 'over' barely came through at 173 ½ thanks to the extra five minutes on Friday.

Lakers at Nuggets - 9:35 PM EST (TNT)

Denver returning home to the Pepsi Center down 2-0 seemed like a good play as 3 ½-point favorites, as the Nuggets ran away from the Lakers late in a 99-84 victory. George Karl's team is creeping back into the series now trailing 2-1 heading into Game 4, as the Nuggets received balanced scoring on Friday.

Six Nuggets finished in double-figures, including a game-high 25-point effort from Ty Lawson. The bench contributed solid numbers, as Javale McGee put together his most complete effort since getting acquired from Washington by scoring 16 points and pulling down 15 rebounds in Game 3. Kobe Bryant put in 22 points on 7-for-23 from the floor, while the Lakers' bench tallied a grand total of nine points.

The Lakers are 1-4 ATS the last five road games as an underdog, as all four defeats have come by double-digits. Denver owns a dreadful 3-7 SU and 1-9 ATS mark the previous 10 home contests coming off a victory.

[StarDust Bum]

Josh Smith hopes to play Sunday in Boston


NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 5 ATLANTA HAWKS

at No. 4 BOSTON CELTICS


Eastern Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 - Boston leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Friday, 7:35 p.m. ET
Line: Atlanta -8, Total: 173½

The Hawks hope to have their best player back on the court when they attempt to even their series in Boston on Sunday night.

PF Josh Smith (19.0 PPG, 15.0 RPG, 4.5 APG in series) missed Friday’s Game 3 with a sprained knee, but expects to play on Sunday. How effective he’ll be is anybody’s guess, since this appears to be a pretty significant injury. The Celtics are finally at full strength though, as SG Ray Allen (ankle) played Friday for the first time since April 10, scoring 13 points in 37 minutes of action off the bench in his team’s thrilling 90-84 overtime win. Boston also saw the return of PG Rajon Rondo (suspension for Game 2) on Friday, and Rondo was clearly the best player on the floor with 17 points, 14 rebounds, 12 assists and four steals. Can the Celtics cover the big number on Friday? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-9 ATS mark (59.1%) in the playoffs, including a 9-5 ATS record (64.3%) since Monday.

Atlanta has scored just 82.3 PPG on 37.8% FG in this series, but is a solid 17-17 SU (19-13-2 ATS) on the road, and also plays strong defense, holding the Celtics to 83.7 PPG on 40.6% FG in this series. SG Joe Johnson has scored 20.7 PPG and 4.0 APG in the series, but he’s shooting just 35% FG and 25% threes (6-for-24). PG Jeff Teague (18.7 PPG in series) is coming off a huge Game 3 where he scored 23 points (9-of-16 FG) with six assists and four rebounds in his 47 minutes of action. With Smith injured, SF Marvin Williams and SF Tracy McGrady were his two replacements. Williams finished with just three points (but 11 boards) in 20 minutes and McGrady shot a subpar 5-of-14 FG with nine rebounds in 41 minutes of action off the bench.

The Celtics are now 25-9 SU (18-16 ATS) at home this season with a stellar team defense allowing visitors to score just 84.4 PPG on 40.3% FG. SF Paul Pierce scored 36 points (12-of-26 FG, 11-of-13 FT) with 14 rebounds and four assists in Game 2, but he struggled on Friday with his shot (3-of-12 FG) and had nearly as many turnovers (four) as rebounds (five) in his 47 minutes on the court. He now has 12 turnovers in the past two contests. PF Kevin Garnett posted his third straight double-double (20 points, 13 boards) in Game 3 while tallying five blocks on the defensive end.

[StarDust Bum]

Bulls try to even series on Sunday


NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 1 CHICAGO BULLS

at No. 8 PHILADELPHIA 76ERS


Eastern Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 - Philadelphia leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
Line: Philadelphia -2½, Total: 173½

After dropping two straight games, the Bulls will try to regroup again and tie up their first-round series in Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon.

The 76ers closed out Friday’s Game 3 on a 26-7 run to grab the 2-1 series lead. They held the Bulls to 74 points on 37% FG and won Friday’s game despite making just 34% FG and 1-of-14 threes. Chicago, who is already missing its best player in PG Derrick Rose, will likely be without C Joakim Noah who twisted his ankle badly in Game 3 and is listed as doubtful. Can the Bulls end their two-game skid without two starters on Sunday? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-9 ATS mark (59.1%) in the playoffs, including a 9-5 ATS record (64.3%) since Monday.

Bulls SF Luol Deng is just 5-for-19 FG in the past two games as he was a complete non-factor on the offensive end on Friday with five points in 37 minutes. PF Carlos Boozer was the team’s best offensive player in Game 3 with 18 points and 10 rebounds, but he posted a -13 rating and committed a game-high five turnovers. The backcourt trio of SG Richard Hamilton, PG C.J. Watson and PG John Lucas combined to make just 8-of-31 FG on Friday, but they did contribute in other ways with 14 assists and just five turnovers.

Philly is now 20-14 (18-16 ATS) at home, allowing just 85.4 PPG on 41.4% FG. C Spencer Hawes was the star in Game 3 with 21 points (10 in the fourth quarter) and nine rebounds. The 7-footer could have another big game against the smaller Chicago front court. Three other 76ers scored at least 14 points on Friday, all three main guards. PG Jrue Holiday had 17 points, six assists and six rebounds to continue his marvelous series. In the three games, he’s averaging 19.7 PPG (54% FG, 4-of-9 threes), 5.0 RPG and 4.7 APG. Backup PG Lou Williams, who was the team’s leading scorer during the regular season, tallied 14 points, giving him 17.0 PPG in his past two games. SG Evan Turner, who took a lot of heat for saying Philly matched up with Chicago better than Miami in the playoffs, has backed up his words with 15.7 PPG, 6.3 RPG and 4.0 APG in the series. These are significant increases from his regular-season averages of 9.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG and 2.8 APG. The starting forwards both had poor showings on Friday though, as PF Elton Brand was scoreless (0-for-5 FG) in 26 minutes and SF Andre Iguodala scored a mere five points on 2-of-9 FG (0-for-5 threes).

[StarDust Bum]

Knicks hope to avoid sweep Sunday vs. Heat


NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 2 MIAMI HEAT

at No. 7 NEW YORK KNICKS


Eastern Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 - Miami leads series 3-0
Tip-off: Sunday, 3:35 p.m. ET
Line: Miami -8, Total: 183

After setting the NBA playoff record for futility with their 13th straight postseason loss on Wednesday, the Knicks try to avoid being swept out the playoffs when host they sizzling Heat on Sunday afternoon.

Miami has destroyed New York in this series, winning the three games by an average of 20.0 PPG (97 to 77). While the Heat have shot 48% FG (39% threes), the Knicks have connected on just 39% FG and 29% threes. They could get a boost with PF Amar’e Stoudemire (hand) possibly returning, but he’ll be a game-time decision. Can the Knicks end their 11-year drought of not wining a playoff game? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-9 ATS mark (59.1%) in the playoffs, including a 9-5 ATS record (64.3%) since Monday.

Miami has not been a stellar road favorite this season at 18-11 SU and 14-15 ATS, outscoring these lesser teams by just 4.0 PPG. But the Heat are 8-2 (7-3 ATS) with at least two days of rest this season, scoring 102.1 PPG in these 10 games. PF Chris Bosh was questionable to play Thursday after his wife gave birth to their child earlier that morning, but he made the flight north and finished with nine points (3-of-5 FG) and 10 rebounds in the victory. Bosh has just 13.0 PPG in the series, which is much less than his 18.0 PPG during the regular season. PG Mario Chalmers failed to record an assist on Thursday, but has still played great this series with 14.3 PPG (54% FG, 8-of-16 threes) and 5.0 APG.

Even with Thursday’s loss, the Knicks are an outstanding 11-2 (SU and ATS) in their 13 home games under interim coach Mike Woodson. Also, the Heat are just 2-5 ATS in their past seven on the road and a subpar 15-19 ATS on the road this season.

SF Carmelo Anthony is putting up big numbers with 21.0 PPG and 9.0 RPG in the series, but he’s shooting just 34.4% FG with six assists and 12 turnovers. SG J.R. Smith has scored 14.0 PPG, but shot a dreadful 5-for-18 (0-for-5 threes) in the Game 3 loss. PG Baron Davis has had a decent series with 9.7 PPG on 58% FG, but his ball distribution has been mediocre with 11 assists and nine turnovers. Like most of the Knicks, C Tyson Chandler has had a quiet series thus far with 7.7 PPG, but he did grab 15 rebounds in 38 minutes in Game 3.

[StarDust Bum]

Lakers look to bounce back Sunday in Denver

NBA PLAYOFF GAME PREVIEW

No. 3 LOS ANGELES LAKERS

at No. 6 DENVER NUGGETS


Western Conference – First Round, Best-of-7 series
Game 4 – Los Angeles leads series 2-1
Tip-off: Sunday, 9:35 p.m. ET
Line: Denver -2, Total: 201

The Nuggets pasted the Lakers by 15 points on Friday night, and will look for a repeat performance in Sunday’s Game 4.

Denver climbed back into the series with an impressive showing from C JaVale McGee, who outplayed Lakers star C Andrew Bynum. McGee had two fewer points than Bynum, but had more rebounds (15 to 12), blocks (4 to 2) and a far superior net points rating (+30 to -18). The Nuggets also held Kobe Bryant (30.3 PPG, 4.0 APG in series) to just 7-of-23 shooting. Can the Nuggets even up this series on Sunday night? For the answer, connect to NBA Playoffs Best Bets for all the Expert picks for every playoff game during the 2012 postseason. ******* Brian has a 13-9 ATS mark (59.1%) in the playoffs, including a 9-5 ATS record (64.3%) since Monday.

Los Angeles is an atrocious 13-25-1 ATS (34%) with one day’s rest this season. The Lakers are also 11-13-1 ATS after an SU defeat. L.A. has scored 97.0 PPG on 44.2% FG in the series despite a woeful 24.6% threes (14-of-57). The team chucked up 25 three-point attempts on Friday, but made just six. Although Bryant and Bynum had off-nights, PF Pau Gasol (14.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.7 BPG in series) posted another well-rounded stat line of 16 points, seven rebounds, four blocks and three assists in 40 minutes of action. Backup C Jordan Hill had 8.0 PPG, 10.0 RPG and 1.5 BPG in just 22.5 MPG over the first three games, but did not attempt a shot in his 14 minutes on Friday. PG Ramon Sessions is coming off two straight poor shooting nights (11-of-29 FG), but still has 14.3 PPG, 15 assists and just four turnovers for the series.

The Nuggets are just 14-17 ATS as a home favorite this season, but are a solid 22-20 (SU and ATS) with just one day off in between games. Denver has outscored L.A. 112-84 in the paint over the past two games, which has helped make up for the lack of three-point efficiency (28.6% in series) shown by the Nuggets. PG Ty Lawson bounced back from a poor Game 1 showing (7 points, 3-of-11 FG, 2 assists) with two straight 25-point, 7-assist performances. SF Danilo Gallinari has 15.0 PPG in the series, but has made just 8-for-29 FG in the past two losses. SG Arron Afflalo has also been misfiring all series, with a 31% FG clip and 2-of-11 threes. Three Nuggets having a better-than expected series are PF Kenneth Faried (12.0 PPG, 11.0 RPG), SF Corey Brewer (9.0 PPG on 43% threes) and PG Andre Miller (8.3 PPG, 7.0 APG, 1.3 SPG.

[StarDust Bum]

Date WLT Pct Net Units Record

05/05/12 5-*3-*0 62.50% +*850 Detail
05/04/12 5-*1-*0 83.33% +*1950 Detail
05/03/12 2-*2-*0 50.00% -*100 Detail
05/02/12 2-*4-*0 33.33% -*1200 Detail
05/01/12 3-*3-*0 50.00% -*150 Detail

Totals 17-*13-*0 56.67% +1350

Sunday, May 6

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Chicago - 1:00 PM ET Chicago +3 500
Philadelphia - Under 173 500

Miami - 3:30 PM ET New York +8 500
New York - Over 183 500

Atlanta - 7:00 PM ET Atlanta +5.5 500
Boston - Under 171 500

L.A. Lakers - 9:30 PM ET Denver -2 500
Denver - Under 201.5 500