The Bum's January's NBA POD'S - Trends - Stats - News !

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Monday, January 20

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Pacers at Warriors: What bettors need to know
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Indiana Pacers at Golden State Warriors (+1, 197.5)

The Indiana Pacers are on a mission and have already won a staggering 20 games by double digits entering Monday’s road contest against the Golden State Warriors. Indiana just swept a four-game homestand by an average of 23.3 points and the matchup against the Warriors marks the opener of a five-game road trip. Golden State is beginning a five-game homestand and is just 2-3 over the past five games after defeating the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.

The Warriors are 12-5 at home and reside in sixth place in the Western Conference and will be gunning for a huge victory. Golden State held the Pelicans to 33 second-half points in Saturday’s victory and will need a top-notch defensive outing to slay Paul George and the Pacers. George had 36 points in Indiana’s 106-92 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, including an acrobatic reverse windmill dunk that electrified the building. The Pacers are 11-6 on the road.

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

LINE: The Warriors opened as 1-point home dogs and the total opened at 197.5.

POWER RANKINGS: Indiana (-14.3) - Golden State (-13) + home court (-3) = Golden State -1.7

ABOUT THE PACERS (32-7, 27-12 ATS): George is averaging 30.7 points over the past three games and his emergence as a borderline superstar has fueled Indiana’s strong first half. The fourth-year pro is part of the MVP chatter and he is averaging 23.6 points – a total that would be likely higher if the Pacers weren’t regularly blowing out opponents. George has scored 20 or more points 27 times, including seven 30-point efforts, and has five double-digit outings on the boards while also buying into coach Frank Vogel’s defensive philosophy. “Help one another, contest every jump shot, load up the paint and make everything tough for guys,” George said after the Pacers held the Clippers to 39.8 percent from the field.

ABOUT THE WARRIORS (26-16, 19-21-2 ATS): Guard Jordan Crawford had 10 points in 13 minutes against New Orleans in his second game since being acquired from Boston. Golden State coveted Crawford to bolster its backcourt depth due to the versatility that he displayed while averaging 13.7 points and 5.7 assists with the Celtics prior to the trade. “He’s a scorer, he’s a playmaker,” star guard Stephen Curry told reporters after the win over the Pelicans. “He’ll get more comfortable as we go along but he’s shown why that was such a good trade for us. So I’m excited that he’s here.

TRENDS:

* Home team is 9-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Golden State.
* Warriors are 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Pacers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games versus the Wesstern Conference.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. Indiana has lost five of its last six road games against the Warriors.

2. Pacers C Ray Hibbert has blocked five or more shots 10 times this season after having five rejections against the Clippers.

3. Golden State committed just eight turnovers against New Orleans, one off its season low.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Monday, January 20

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Under the Cover: Three Understated NBA Trends
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Sure it’s fun to bet on those public NBA teams, the ones on ESPN or ABC every night and have stars with nicknames like “The King” or “CP 3”. But we bettors all know real value is often found in those teams running their sets and protecting the rim away from the limelight.

Here we highlight three teams and three trends that won’t make the headlines but may help boost your bank account.

Grizz Bettors Go West

Whether it’s the change in climate or the extra couple hours of shut-eye, there’s something about playing the Western Conference that is jiving for the Memphis Grizzlies and their supporters these days. The Grizz are 6-1 ATS in their last seven against teams from left side of the Continental Divide, including straight-up home wins against Oklahoma City and Sacramento last week. Whether this will continue remains to be seen but with a home date versus New Orleans Monday and a home-and-home with Houston Friday and Saturday this week bettors will certainly hope so.

The Kings of the Over

With the likes of Rudy Gay, DeMarcus Cousins, and Isaiah Thomas, the Sacramento Kings can score with the best teams in the league. The problem is that the aforementioned trio - along with the rest of the lackluster Kings – just can’t stop the best from scoring, not that this has been a problem for totals bettors. In the Kings' last six against teams with a .600 record the over has hit in all six. And with games at Houston Wednesday and against Indiana Friday this week these same bettors will look for this run to continue.

Rest Helps Suns Rise

Who even plays for the Phoenix Suns? There’s those Morris twins with the same first name and that Dragic kid who was Steve Nash’s backup a couple of years ago. Whoever they are, perhaps it is this anonymity that has made the Suns among the NBA’s best bet this season, going 25-13-1 ATS. What’s been even more impressive has been the Suns’ ability to cover the spread on a days rest, going 20-6-1 in their last 27 after a day off. And would you look at Phoenix’s schedule this week: games against Indiana, Washington, and at Cleveland on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday respectively.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Brooklyn at New York
The Nets visit Madison Square Garden today to face a Knicks team that is coming off a 109-95 home loss to the Clippers and is 0-4 ATS in its last 4 games following a double-digit home defeat. Brooklyn is the pick (-2) according to Dunkel, which has the Nets favored by 4 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Brooklyn (-2). Here are all of today's picks.

MONDAY, JANUARY 20

Game 701-702: LA Clippers at Detroit (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Clippers 122.049; Detroit 116.851
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 5; 187
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 703-704: Dallas at Cleveland (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 117.568; Cleveland 119.556
Dunkel Line & Total: Cleveland by 2; 212
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas by 2 1/2; 207 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+2 1/2); Over

Game 705-706: Philadelphia at Washington (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 106.978; Washington 121.313
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 14 1/2; 200
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 10; 206 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-10); Under

Game 707-708: Toronto at Charlotte (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 125.124; Charlotte 115.010
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 10; 192
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto by 5; 186 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-5); Over

Game 709-710: Brooklyn at New York (2:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Brooklyn 121.115; New York 116.813
Dunkel Line & Total: Brooklyn by 4 1/2; 199
Vegas Line & Total: Brooklyn by 2; 193
Dunkel Pick: Brooklyn (-2); Over

Game 711-712: New Orleans at Memphis (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 113.874; Memphis 124.248
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 6 1/2; 185
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 8; 191
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (+8); Under

Game 713-714: Miami at Atlanta (5:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 118.711; Atlanta 120.598
Dunkel Line & Total: Atlanta by 2; 196
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 5 1/2; 201 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (+5 1/2); Under

Game 715-716: Portland at Houston (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Portland 120.407; Houston 124.806
Dunkel Line & Total: Houston by 4 1/2; 224
Vegas Line & Total: Houston by 2 1/2; 217 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-2 1/2); Over

Game 717-718: LA Lakers at Chicago (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Lakers 104.640; Chicago 122.467
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 18; 204
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 9; 197
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-9); Over

Game 719-720: Indiana at Golden State (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 122.494; Golden State 128.648
Dunkel Line & Total: Golden State by 6; 193
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 1; 197 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Golden State (+1); Under

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Long Sheet

Monday, January 20

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LA CLIPPERS (28 - 14) at DETROIT (17 - 23) - 1/20/2014, 1:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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DALLAS (24 - 18) at CLEVELAND (15 - 25) - 1/20/2014, 1:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 70-53 ATS (+11.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 40-21 ATS (+16.9 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in January games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 30-17 ATS (+11.3 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) after a non-conference game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 2-1 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 2-1 straight up against CLEVELAND 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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PHILADELPHIA (13 - 27) at WASHINGTON (19 - 20) - 1/20/2014, 2:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 14-23 ATS (-11.3 Units) as an underdog this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 52-27 ATS (+22.3 Units) as a road underdog of 9.5 to 12 points since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 312-374 ATS (-99.4 Units) in home games since 1996.

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

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TORONTO (20 - 19) at CHARLOTTE (17 - 25) - 1/20/2014, 2:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 186-229 ATS (-65.9 Units) after allowing 105 points or more since 1996.
TORONTO is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) in road games this season.
TORONTO is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
CHARLOTTE is 52-70 ATS (-25.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 43-58 ATS (-20.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 34-59 ATS (-30.9 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 13-30 ATS (-20.0 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 32-55 ATS (-28.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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BROOKLYN (16 - 22) at NEW YORK (15 - 25) - 1/20/2014, 2:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 7-15 ATS (-9.5 Units) as an underdog this season.
NEW YORK is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home games this season.

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

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NEW ORLEANS (15 - 24) at MEMPHIS (20 - 19) - 1/20/2014, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 75-57 ATS (+12.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 51-35 ATS (+12.5 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 41-26 ATS (+12.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 53-32 ATS (+17.8 Units) in road games in January games since 1996.
NEW ORLEANS is 47-27 ATS (+17.3 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1996.
MEMPHIS is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) vs. division opponents this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 7-3 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 5-5 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MIAMI (29 - 11) at ATLANTA (20 - 19) - 1/20/2014, 5:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.
MIAMI is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 200 and 204.5 points over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 19-7 ATS (+11.3 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

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

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PORTLAND (31 - 9) at HOUSTON (27 - 15) - 1/20/2014, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as an underdog this season.
HOUSTON is 49-73 ATS (-31.3 Units) in home games in January games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 6-2 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 6-3 straight up against PORTLAND 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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LA LAKERS (16 - 25) at CHICAGO (19 - 20) - 1/20/2014, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAKERS are 87-113 ATS (-37.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 39-63 ATS (-30.3 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) in road games off an upset win as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 17-29 ATS (-14.9 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 115-75 ATS (+32.5 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs since 1996.
CHICAGO is 59-73 ATS (-21.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 25-44 ATS (-23.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 24-42 ATS (-22.2 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 15-26 ATS (-13.6 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 2-1 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 2-1 straight up against LA LAKERS 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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INDIANA (32 - 7) at GOLDEN STATE (26 - 16) - 1/20/2014, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 27-12 ATS (+13.8 Units) in all games this season.
INDIANA is 23-9 ATS (+13.1 Units) as a favorite this season.
INDIANA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in non-conference games this season.
INDIANA is 32-20 ATS (+10.0 Units) after a win by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

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

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Short Sheet

Monday, January 20

LA Clippers at Detroit, 1:05 ET
LA Clippers: 9-3 Over on Monday
Detroit: 10-5 ATS vs. LA Clippers

Dallas at Cleveland, 1:05 ET
Dallas: 24-11 ATS when line is +3 to -3 points
Cleveland: 11-4 Over with 2 days rest

Philadelphia at Washington, 2:05 ET
Philadelphia: 1-8 ATS away with total of 200 to 210 points
Washington: 8-1 Over after failing to cover 2 of their last 3 games

Toronto at Charlotte, 2:05 ET
Toronto: 14-6 ATS away this year
Charlotte: 13-30 ATS in January games

Brooklyn at New York, 2:35 ET
Brooklyn: 9-1 ATS away playing 6 or less games in 14 days
New York: 5-15 ATS home this year

New Orleans at Memphis, 5:05 ET
New Orleans: 33-14 ATS away after 4 or more losses
Memphis: 1-8 ATS vs. division opponents this year

Miami at Atlanta, 5:35 ET
Miami: 3-13 ATS off 2 or more straight road wins
Atlanta: 10-0 ATS at home after 2 or more straight losses

Portland at Houston, 8:00 ET
Portland: 8-1 ATS as underdogs this year
Houston: 11-2 Over after a non-conference game

LA Lakers at Chicago, 8:00 ET
LA Lakers: 3-13 ATS away off SU underdog win
Chicago: 15-5 Under at home this season

Indiana at Golden State, 10:35 ET
Indiana: 8-1 ATS playing 4 or less games in 10 days
Golden State: 6-16 ATS at home after failing to cover 2 of last 3 games

[StarDust Bum]

January's Record

*****............. 22 - 16

DOUBLE PLAYS....11 - 13

TRIPLE PLAYS.....8 - 8 - 1

Monday, January 20

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Dallas - 1:00 PM ET Cleveland +2 500 DOUBLE PLAY
Cleveland -

L.A. Clippers - 1:00 PM ET Detroit +3.5 500 *****
Detroit -

Toronto - 2:00 PM ET Charlotte +4.5 500
Charlotte -

Philadelphia - 2:00 PM ET Washington -10 500 *****
Washington -

Brooklyn - 2:30 PM ET Brooklyn -2 500 *****
New York -

New Orleans - 5:00 PM ET Memphis -8 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Memphis -

Miami - 5:30 PM ET Atlanta +5 500
Atlanta -

L.A. Lakers - 8:00 PM ET Chicago -9 500 *****
Chicago -

Portland - 8:00 PM ET Portland +2.5 500 *****
Houston -

Indiana - 10:30 PM ET Golden State -1 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Golden State -

[StarDust Bum]

Hoop Trends - Tuesday

January 21, 2014


ATS TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Timberwolves are 0-11 ATS (-8.77 ppg) since Dec 29, 2004 with two or more days of rest after a win where they scored at least 80 points when their DPA was minus 15 points or less.

OU TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Kings are 0-10-1 OU (-13.91 ppg) since Mar 19, 2004 on the road with at least one day of rest after a game on the road in which their opponent stole the ball at least twelve times.

PLAYER TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Thunder are 9-0 ATS (6.89 ppg) since Mar 17, 2013 after Serge Ibaka shot better than 66% from the field at home.

CHOICE TREND:

-- The Magic are 0-10 OU (-13.80 ppg) since Nov 26, 2009 as a dog with at most one day of rest after a game at home in which they allowed less than 40% from the field.

ACTIVE TRENDS:

-- The Magic are 9-0-1 ATS (8.40 ppg) since Jan 23, 2010 with at most one day of rest after a game at home in which they scored more than 25% of their points from the free throw line.

-- The Trail Blazers are 6-0 ATS (7.08 ppg) since Jan 19, 2011 on the road after Nicolas Batum decreased his scoring by at least 15 points over their past two games.

[StarDust Bum]

Heat, Celtics hook up

January 21, 2014


Check out more NBA Odds at Sportsbook.ag!

BOSTON CELTICS (14-28) at MIAMI HEAT (29-12)

Sportsbook.ag Line & Total: Miami -9, 197.5

After an unsuccessful road trip, the Heat look to end their struggles on Tuesday evening when they return home to face the slumping Celtics.

Miami has been one of the best defensive teams in the league this season, allowing only 98.8 PPG (9th in NBA), but in its just-completed 2-4 road trip, the club allowed 102+ points in all four defeats. Boston has been atrocious over the past month, losing 14 of 16 games SU and going 5-11 ATS. Before this slide, the team had allowed just 95.8 PPG, but that number has jumped to 103.6 PPG during the 2-14 stretch. This includes going 0-2 (SU and ATS) since getting star PG Rajon Rondo back on the court.

When these teams met earlier in the season on Nov. 9, the Heat were a 13.5-point home favorite but lost 111-110 on a Jeff Green buzzer-beating three pointer. This improved the Celtics record in this series to 12-4 ATS (8-8 SU) over the past three seasons, including 6-3 ATS (3-6 SU) in Miami. The Over is 12-4 (75%) in this series during this three-year timeframe, including 8-1 (89%) in South Beach. This season, Boston is a solid 11-10 ATS (5-16 SU) on the road, while the Heat are a poor 7-12 ATS (16-3 SU) at home. Both teams have favorable betting trends on Tuesday though, with Miami benefitting from the fact that NBA favorites with a 60% to 75% win pct. coming off an upset division loss when favored are 32-8 ATS (80%) in the past five seasons when facing a losing team. However, extremely tired (playing 4th game in 5 days) home teams revenging a loss where the opponent scored 110+ points are a mere 6-28 ATS (18%) over the past five seasons. On the injury front, SF Jeff Green (knee) is probable for Boston, while Jerryd Bayless (toe) is questionable.

The Celtics have been a poor offensive team all season with just 95.2 PPG (25th in NBA) on 43.9% FG (23rd in league) and 33.2% threes (28th in NBA). They are also tallying a subpar 42.7 RPG (21st in league) and a woeful 19.7 APG (28th in NBA), but got a lot of firepower back recently with PG Rajon Rondo returning from a torn ACL. Despite losing both games with Rondo in the lineup, he is averaging 7.0 PPG, 4.0 APG, 4.0 RPG and 1.5 SPG in just 20.5 MPG. He will need to use his speed to get into the paint and create shots for his teammates as he will be guarded by a slower player in Mario Chalmers. In the past four meetings he's had with the Heat, Rondo has posted an impressive 54 assists (13.5 APG) and just 16 turnovers (3.4 Ast/TO ratio).

SF Jeff Green (15.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG) hit a game-winner the last time these teams played on Nov. 9, finishing that contest with 23 points (5-of-8 threes) and five boards. Green is also coming off a 22-point performance against the Magic where he shot 15 free throws, and his ability to get into the paint will be a key part of this matchup. Green will also have the nearly impossible defensive assignment of containing LeBron James. PF Jared Sullinger (13.1 PPG, 7.8 RPG) will need to score the basketball as he will be going up against a relatively small frontcourt. Sullinger has averaged just 9.5 PPG over the past two contests and the Celtics will need a lot more out of him. PG Avery Bradley (14.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG) is coming off of an 18-point performance against the Magic, but made just 7-of-21 shots (0-for-5 threes). Bradley is one of the best on-ball defenders in the NBA and will be relied upon to shut down Dwyane Wade.

The Heat have been a highly efficient offense all season with 104.2 PPG (7th in NBA) on a league-high 50.6% FG and 37.6% threes (7th in NBA). They have also dished out 23.5 APG (5th in NBA) and rank 11th in the league with a 1.62 Ast/TO ratio. The one weakness continues to be on the boards, as they have the fewest rebounds in the league (36.6 RPG) and the NBA's fourth-worst rebounding margin (minus-3.8 RPG). SG Dwyane Wade (18.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.7 APG) sat out the past two games for Miami with a sore knee, but is expected to give it a go against the Celtics. Wade has dropped 20.7 PPG, 6.1 APG and 4.2 RPG in 32 career games in this series, finishing the Nov. 9 meeting with 18 points and seven assists. SF LeBron James (26.1 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.3 SPG) has also dominated Boston in his career with 30.1 PPG (50% FG), 6.7 RPG and 6.6 APG in 35 career meetings. This includes a 25-point, 10-assist, 8-rebound effort earlier this season when he made 9-of-13 FG. James continues to play at an MVP level, averaging 29.7 PPG, 6.7 RPG and 6.7 APG during the six-game road trip his team just wrapped up.

PF Chris Bosh (16.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.1 BPG) also had a strong road trip, averaging 24.3 PPG (54% FG, 8-of-18 threes), 6.8 RPG and 1.3 BPG over the final four contests. He should have a productive game against the Celtics who lack a strong interior presence defensively, and who have always struggled to guard Bosh who has 18.5 PPG, 9.1 RPG in 37 career meetings against them. Since returning from an Achilles injury, PG Mario Chalmers (9.5 PPG, 5.1 APG, 1.9 SPG) is averaging a solid 12.0 PPG, 4.7 APG, 3.3 RPG and 2.3 SPG. He will need to hold his own against Rajon Rondo, who is an elite player when healthy, but he is still not close to 100 percent after returning from a torn ACL.

[StarDust Bum]

See spot. See spot bet: This week's best NBA spot bet opportunities

Letdown spot

Denver was in terrible form for the entire month of December. The Nuggets went 5-10 SU and ATS during the month. The first two weeks of January were strong, going 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS, but the Nuggets have lost back-to-back games coming into Thursday’s game in Portland.

The Nuggets will have three full days of rest going into that game, and then they have Friday off before hosting Indiana Saturday night. That’s two Class-A teams in back-to-back games. On Sunday, the Nuggets will play at Sacramento, so Denver may not be too sharp after playing the Blazers and Pacers in their previous two contests.

Lookahead spot

Indiana began a five-game West Coast road trip at Golden State Monday night. The Pacers will play in Phoenix Wednesday, in Sacramento Friday, and then at Denver Saturday. In that sequence, Indiana will face just one bad team, and that’s the Kings.

Indiana just beat Sacramento 116-92 at home on January 14. That game was never close, as the Pacers led by as many as 29 points. After facing the Warriors and Suns, Indiana will play the Kings on the first night of a back-to-back set before playing in the thin air and altitude of Denver. The Pacers will be looking ahead to the Nuggets, especially since they just crushed the Kings by 24 points in their previous meeting.

Schedule spot

The Utah Jazz have had a miserable season, but they will be in a terrific scheduling spot Saturday, January 25. Utah is hosting the Washington Wizards that night, and the setup couldn’t be any better for the Jazz.

Utah will be coming into that game with a full three days of rest. It will also be just its second game in seven days after hosting Minnesota Tuesday night. Meanwhile, the Wizards will be playing in the thin air and altitude of Utah after playing in Phoenix the night before. It will also be the third game in four nights for Washington, and their fourth game of the week.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Portland at Oklahoma City
The Trail Blazers look to bounce back from last night's loss in Houston and build on their 8-3 ATS record in their last 11 games when playing with 0 days of rest. Portland is the pick (+6) according to Dunkel, which has the Trail Blazers favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Portland (+6). Here are all of today's picks.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21

Game 501-502: Boston at Miami (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 111.071; Miami 124.191
Dunkel Line & Total: Miami by 13; 204
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 9; 198
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-9); Over

Game 503-504: Orlando at Brooklyn (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Orlando 111.886; Brooklyn 118.962
Dunkel Line & Total: Brooklyn by 7; 186
Vegas Line & Total: Brooklyn by 10; 191 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Orlando (+10); Under

Game 505-506: Sacramento at New Orleans (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Sacramento 118.825; New Orleans 115.896
Dunkel Line & Total: Sacramento by 3; 199
Vegas Line & Total: New Orleans by 1; 204
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (+1); Under

Game 507-508: Portland at Oklahoma City (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Portland 125.174; Oklahoma City 124.231
Dunkel Line & Total: Portland by 1; 224
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 6; 215 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Portland (+6); Over

Game 509-510: Minnesota at Utah (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 125.309; Utah 118.046
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 7 1/2; 210
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota by 3; 202 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-3); Over




NBA
Long Sheet

Tuesday, January 21

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BOSTON (14 - 28) at MIAMI (29 - 12) - 1/21/2014, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 12-4 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 8-8 straight up against BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
12 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ORLANDO (11 - 30) at BROOKLYN (17 - 22) - 1/21/2014, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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SACRAMENTO (14 - 25) at NEW ORLEANS (16 - 24) - 1/21/2014, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 146-195 ATS (-68.5 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 5-3 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 4-4 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
7 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PORTLAND (31 - 10) at OKLAHOMA CITY (31 - 10) - 1/21/2014, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) after playing 3 consecutive road games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 74-58 ATS (+10.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 66-49 ATS (+12.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 111-74 ATS (+29.6 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 40-25 ATS (+12.5 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 6-3 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-3 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MINNESOTA (19 - 21) at UTAH (14 - 28) - 1/21/2014, 9:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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NBA
Short Sheet

Tuesday, January 21

Boston at Miami, 7:35 ET
Boston: 7-18 ATS away with 1 days rest
Miami: 7-3 Under home without rest

Orlando at Brooklyn, 7:35 ET
Orlando: 2-10 ATS off a home ATS win
Brooklyn: 9-4 Over at home without rest vs. opponent with rest

Sacramento at New Orleans, 8:05 ET
Sacramento: 3-13 ATS after an under game
New Orleans: 7-1 Over vs. Sacramento

Portland at Oklahoma City, 8:05 ET
Portland: 6-2 Over away after scoring 110 or more points away
OKC: 23-11 ATS home vs. opponent without rest

Minnesota at Utah, 9:05 ET
Minnesota: 3-11 ATS after an ATS win as favorite of 5 or more points
Utah: 8-2 Over after an ATS loss as a dog of 10 or more points




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, January 21

Hot teams
-- Nets won seven of their last eight games (5-3 last eight HF).
-- Trailblazers won five of their last six games. Oklahoma City won four of their last five.
-- Jazz won four of their last five home games.

Cold Teams
-- Magic lost ten of their last eleven games (0-7 last seven AU).
-- Heat lost four of their last six games. Boston lost 11 of last 12 games, covered one of last four.
-- Kings lost three of last four games but covered five of last seven. New Orleans lost eight of last nine games, but covered four of last five.
-- Minnesota lost four of its last six games.

Series records
-- Nets won four of last five games with Orlando.
-- Heat won five of last seven games with Boston, but Celtics covered the last four meetings.
-- Pelicans won four of last five games with Sacramento.
--Thunder is 0-2 vs Portland this year, losing by 7-4 points.
-- Minnesota beat Jazz by 26 Saturday, its first win in last six games vs Utah.

Totals
-- 10 of last 11 Orlando road games stayed under total.
-- Four of last five Miami games went over total. 14 of 21 Boston road games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 4-1-1 in last six New Orleans games.
-- 15 of 21 Portland road games went over the total.
-- Five of last seven Utah games went over the total.




NBA

Tuesday, January 21

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Trend Report
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7:30 PM
BOSTON vs. MIAMI
Boston is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Miami
Boston is 3-10 SU in its last 13 games when playing on the road against Miami
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Miami's last 10 games at home
Miami is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games at home

7:30 PM
ORLANDO vs. BROOKLYN
Orlando is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Orlando's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Brooklyn's last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Brooklyn's last 11 games when playing at home against Orlando

8:00 PM
SACRAMENTO vs. NEW ORLEANS
Sacramento is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Sacramento's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 5 games when playing Sacramento
New Orleans is 6-15 ATS in its last 21 games when playing Sacramento

8:00 PM
PORTLAND vs. OKLAHOMA CITY
Portland is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Portland is 2-6-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is 6-2-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Portland
Oklahoma City is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Portland

9:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. UTAH
Minnesota is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Utah
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Minnesota's last 11 games when playing on the road against Utah
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games when playing Minnesota


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NBA

Tuesday, January 21

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Trail Blazers at Thunder:: What bettors need to know
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Portland Trail Blazers at Oklahoma City Thunder (-5.5, 216.5)

Kevin Durant attempts to run his streak of consecutive 30-point outings to eight when the Oklahoma City Thunder host the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday in a battle of Western Conference heavyweights. Durant has been on a tremendous scoring spree this month, setting an NBA-season high with 54 points last Friday against Golden State and scoring 48 on two other occasions. Portland had won five straight games before falling to the Houston Rockets on Monday.

Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum reinjured his fractured left middle finger in the loss to the Rockets and said after the contest that he will probably need a new splint if he is to attempt to play against the Thunder. Forward LaMarcus Aldridge had 27 points and 20 rebounds for his third 20-20 outing of this season and fifth in his career. The Thunder will be gunning for Portland in this contest after losing the first two meetings this season; the two teams are tied for second place in the Western Conference, one game behind the San Antonio Spurs.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, CSN Northwest (Portland), FSN Oklahoma (Oklahoma City)

LINE: The Thunder opened as 5,5-point home faves. The total opened at 216.5.

POWER RANKINGS: Portland (-11.5) - Oklahoma City (-12.5) + home court (-3) = Oklahoma City -4

ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (31-10, 24-17 ATS): Guard Damian Lillard had 24 points in the loss to the Rockets and his 131 3-pointers are the most in history for a player through his team’s first 41 games. Ray Allen made 130 3-pointers in Boston’s first 41 games of the 2005-06 campaign. Lillard is a little bit more concerned with how Portland bounces back as the effort wasn’t always top-notch against Houston. “They were beating us to all the loose balls and they were playing free and easy and getting whatever they wanted,” Lillard said afterward.

ABOUT THE THUNDER (31-10, 23-18 ATS): While Durant has been carrying the offense, power forward Serge Ibaka scored 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting against Sacramento on Sunday. It was the third straight game in which Ibaka scored 20 or more and he is 27-of-37 shooting during the stretch. “He is a guy that excels off of playing everybody else,” Durant said of Ibaka. “He gives himself up by setting screens and rolls to the rim and the ball finds him. He sets great screens and moves the defense. He shifts the defense with his hard rolls to the basket and you have to respect his jumper.”

TRENDS:

* Under is 5-1 in the last six meetings.
* Under is 19-5-2 in the last 26 meetings in Oklahoma City.
* Favorite is 15-5-1 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
* Trail Blazers are 2-6-1 ATS in the last nine meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. The Trail Blazers had lost seven straight games against the Thunder prior to this season’s two victories.

2. Aldridge is averaging 31.5 points and 13.5 rebounds against Oklahoma City this season.

3. Oklahoma City PG Reggie Jackson is averaging 17.5 points over the past four games and has reached double digits in eight of the last nine outings.

[StarDust Bum]

January's Record

*****............. 23 - 20

DOUBLE PLAYS....11 - 14

TRIPLE PLAYS.....8 - 10 - 1


Tuesday, January 21

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Orlando - 7:30 PM ET Orlando +9 500 *****
Brooklyn - Over 193.5 500

Boston - 7:30 PM ET Boston +9.5 500
Miami - Over 196.5 500

Sacramento - 8:00 PM ET Sacramento -1.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY
New Orleans - Under 205.5 500

Portland - 8:00 PM ET Portland +6.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Oklahoma City - Under 214.5 500

Minnesota - 9:00 PM ET Minnesota -4 500 *****
Utah - Under 202.5 500

[StarDust Bum]

See spot. See spot bet: This week's best NBA spot bet opportunities


Spot bets are classic handicapping practices that have proven profitable no matter what sport you’re betting. Whether it’s a team looking past this week’s opponent, one coming off a hard-fought victory, or a rough patch of schedule, bettors can find value picking their spots.

Covers Expert Steve Merril points out the best spot bet opportunities on the NBA schedule this week:

Letdown spot

Denver was in terrible form for the entire month of December. The Nuggets went 5-10 SU and ATS during the month. The first two weeks of January were strong, going 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS, but the Nuggets have lost back-to-back games coming into Thursday’s game in Portland.

The Nuggets will have three full days of rest going into that game, and then they have Friday off before hosting Indiana Saturday night. That’s two Class-A teams in back-to-back games. On Sunday, the Nuggets will play at Sacramento, so Denver may not be too sharp after playing the Blazers and Pacers in their previous two contests.

Lookahead spot

Indiana began a five-game West Coast road trip at Golden State Monday night. The Pacers will play in Phoenix Wednesday, in Sacramento Friday, and then at Denver Saturday. In that sequence, Indiana will face just one bad team, and that’s the Kings.

Indiana just beat Sacramento 116-92 at home on January 14. That game was never close, as the Pacers led by as many as 29 points. After facing the Warriors and Suns, Indiana will play the Kings on the first night of a back-to-back set before playing in the thin air and altitude of Denver. The Pacers will be looking ahead to the Nuggets, especially since they just crushed the Kings by 24 points in their previous meeting.

Schedule spot

The Utah Jazz have had a miserable season, but they will be in a terrific scheduling spot Saturday, January 25. Utah is hosting the Washington Wizards that night, and the setup couldn’t be any better for the Jazz.

Utah will be coming into that game with a full three days of rest. It will also be just its second game in seven days after hosting Minnesota Tuesday night. Meanwhile, the Wizards will be playing in the thin air and altitude of Utah after playing in Phoenix the night before. It will also be the third game in four nights for Washington, and their fourth game of the week.

[StarDust Bum]

Wednesday, January 22

Game Score Status Pick Amount

L.A. Clippers - 7:00 PM ET L.A. Clippers -6 500 *****
Charlotte - Over 199 500

Chicago - 7:00 PM ET Cleveland -4.5 500
Cleveland - Under 186.5 500 *****

Atlanta - 7:00 PM ET Atlanta -5.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY
Orlando - Under 202 500

Dallas - 7:00 PM ET Dallas +1 500 DOUBLE PLAY
Toronto - Over 201.5 500

Boston - 7:00 PM ET Washington -9.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Washington - Under 192 500

Philadelphia - 7:30 PM ET Philadelphia +8.5 500
New York - Over 204.5 500

Sacramento - 8:00 PM ET Sacramento +10 500
Houston - Over 216 500

Detroit - 8:00 PM ET Detroit -5 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Milwaukee - Over 197 500 TRIPLE PLAY

Oklahoma City - 8:00 PM ET San Antonio -6.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY
San Antonio - Under 205 500

Indiana - 10:30 PM ET Indiana -5.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY
Phoenix - Under 195.5 500

[StarDust Bum]

Hoop Trends - Thursday

January 23, 2014


ATS TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Heat are 0-10 ATS (-11.15 ppg) since May 06, 2013 with at least one day of rest after a win in which they scored less than 15% of their points from the free throw line.

OU TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Nuggets are 10-0 OU (15.2 ppg) since Feb 23, 2008 on the road off a loss in which they never led and did not win the second half by double digits.

PLAYER TREND OF THE DAY:

-- The Heat are 0-9 ATS (-8.11 ppg) since Dec 20, 2010 at home after Chris Bosh shot better than 50% from the arc in a win.

CHOICE TREND:

-- The Lakers are 10-0 OU (9.65 ppg) since Nov 16, 2012 after a loss in which their DPA was negative and they were not more than nine point dogs.

ACTIVE TRENDS:

-- The Trailblazers are 0-8 ATS (-8.69 ppg) since Mar 12, 2013 at home after a loss in which they scored less than 15% of their points from the free throw line.

-- The Lakers are 7-0 ATS (10.64 ppg) since Feb 29, 2012 after Pau Gasol had more turnovers than assists in a road loss.

[StarDust Bum]

Fact or Fiction

January 23, 2014


The calendar year is now said and done with, and that means that we are heading into the second-half of the NBA season. Check out some of the hot topic items heading into 2014 for NBA betting fans, as we decipher which are fact and which are fiction.

FACT

The Spurs Have Some Real Problems To Deal With: When forward Kawhi Leonard went down with a hand injury on Wednesday, the Spurs really needed to sweat. They've got a tough schedule ahead, the Rodeo Road Trip isn't all that far in the future, and both Leonard and center Tiago Splitter are stuck hurt. That leaves F Boris Diaw and C Jeff Ayres as the only two men who could possibly join Tim Duncan in the paint, and all of that seems to make for a lot of potential problems in the Lone Star State in the near future.

Injuries Aren't all that Ails the Knicks: Sure, F Metta World Peace and a pair of other forwards are out right now for the Knicks, but head coach Mike Woodson has to know that his team's defense is to blame for its five-game losing skid both straight up and against the spread. Allowing 109.4 points per game in any stretch of the season is bad, but when it's capped by allowing over 100-plus to the 76ers, you know you're in trouble. The Knicks don't just need to get healthy. They need to start playing a lot harder on the defensive side of the court as well.

LA's Best ATS Team Isn't the Clippers: Oh sure, the Clips have the better record of the two teams residing at the Staples Center at 25-19 ATS for the season, but the Lakers are the team on a tear right now with five straight covers coming into Thursday. Coach Mike D'Antoni has done a remarkable job fielding a competitive team without four men who are all better than any of the starting guards which he has to work with right now. When the Lakers do happen to get healthy, they could become an even better cover side than they are already becoming.

FICTION

Portland Is Finally Set To Swoon: There has been a lot of grumbling that consecutive losses to the Thunder and the Rockets could be the beginning of the end for the Blazers, who have overachieved all season long. However, when you look at their upcoming schedule, you have to think they are going to be back in first place in the Northwest Division sooner rather than later. The only game until a Feb. 7 game against the Pacers on the road in which they'll be 'dogs is against Golden State on the road on Sunday. There's a great chance to win at least five of these next seven, if not even possibly all seven. Portland's offense can still carry it to plenty of wins. This team hasn't lost three games in a row all season long, and this doesn't figure to be the time when that starts.

The Pelicans Are Worthy of Being Unerdogs Almost Every Night: We know that games against the Pistons, Magic, and Cavaliers are probably going to sway New Orleans' fortunes a bit, but just because this team has dropped nine out of 10 games doesn't mean that it should be considered one of the worst teams in the game. The Pelicans covered games against all three Texas teams in a span of five nights, and they’ve fought hard more often than not against big numbers. The last four times New Orleans was a 'dog by more than five points, it has covered.

Kevin Durant's Scoring Run Being Good for the Thunder: Sure, the Thunder are winning games, and they are doing so because Durant is wrapping up the MVP award in January by scoring at least 30 points in nine consecutive games. We're just not sure this is a good thing for Durant and his OKC mates in the long run. Durant has played 37 minutes or more in six of his last seven games, and he has been counted on to do far too much. We saw this last season in the postseason. Durant can't carry this team in a seven-game series by himself, and with PG Russell Westbrook still out, we really would have preferred to see someone else step up and shoulder some of the burden for this team for its long-term success.