Da Bum's 2014 NBA Playoff Best Bets- News,Stats-Trends !

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Charlotte at Miami
The Bobcats look to bounce back from their 99-88 loss in Game 1 and come into tonight's contest with a 4-0 ATS record in their last 4 games following a SU defeat of more than 10 points. Charlotte is the pick (+10 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Heat favored by only 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Charlotte (+10 1/2). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

Game 727-728: Charlotte at Miami (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Charlotte 116.976; Miami 125.272
Dunkel Line & Total: Miami by 8 1/2; 181 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 10 1/2; 186
Dunkel Pick: Charlotte (+10 1/2); Under

Game 729-730: Dallas at San Antonio (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 121.499; San Antonio 131.155
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 9 1/2; 206
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 8; 198
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-8); Over

Game 731-732: Portland at Houston (9:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Portland 119.798; Houston 127.318
Dunkel Line & Total: Houston by 7 1/2; 218
Vegas Line & Total: Houston by 6; 214 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-6); Over




NBA
Long Sheet

Wednesday, April 23

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CHARLOTTE (43 - 40) at MIAMI (55 - 28) - 4/23/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHARLOTTE is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in road games second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 22-34 ATS (-15.4 Units) in road games revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 37-54 ATS (-22.4 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 47-32 ATS (+11.8 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 47-33 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all games this season.
CHARLOTTE is 32-22 ATS (+7.8 Units) as an underdog this season.
CHARLOTTE is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) after a division game this season.
CHARLOTTE is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
CHARLOTTE is 15-7 ATS (+7.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 9-3 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 12-0 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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DALLAS (49 - 34) at SAN ANTONIO (63 - 20) - 4/23/2014, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 148-113 ATS (+23.7 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 121-91 ATS (+20.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 430-361 ATS (+32.9 Units) in home games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 23-14 ATS (+7.6 Units) second half of the season this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 140-105 ATS (+24.5 Units) when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 32-17 ATS (+13.3 Units) after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 81-61 ATS (+13.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 299-249 ATS (+25.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
DALLAS is 92-72 ATS (+12.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 44-29 ATS (+12.1 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 28-14 ATS (+12.6 Units) in road games this season.
DALLAS is 24-10 ATS (+13.0 Units) in road games second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 138-105 ATS (+22.5 Units) when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
DALLAS is 213-168 ATS (+28.2 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.
DALLAS is 163-123 ATS (+27.7 Units) in road games revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
DALLAS is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
DALLAS is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 9-4 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 11-2 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PORTLAND (55 - 28) at HOUSTON (54 - 29) - 4/23/2014, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 23-36 ATS (-16.6 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 26-16 ATS (+8.4 Units) in road games this season.
PORTLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) off an upset win as an underdog this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 7-4 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 8-4 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
10 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NBA
Short Sheet

Wednesday, April 23

Charlotte at Miami, 7:00 ET
Charlotte: 14-26 ATS in road games revenging a same season loss vs opponent
Miami: 14-4 ATS after having lost 3 of their last 4

Dallas at San Antonio, 8:05 ET
Dallas: 11-1 OVER when playing 4 or less games in 10 days
San Antonio: 42-27 ATS after playing 2 consecutive games as a home favorite

Portland at Houston, 9:35 ET
Portland: 7-18 ATS in road games after 2 or more consecutive overs
Houston: 18-5 ATS in home games after failing to cover 4 or 5 of their last 6




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Wednesday, April 23

Miami has won 16 games in row over Bobcat team that is 0-5 all-time in playoff games; Heat covered nine of last 11 series games- they made 11 of 23 from arc in Game 1, were +6 in turnovers. Miami subs combined to be +77; Charlotte's bench was -51. Bobcats are 23-17-2 vs spread on road; five of their last eight games stayed under total. Miami was +17 in 14:00 Dwyane Wade was off the floor in Game 1, -6 with him on floor.

Mavericks are trying beat Spurs best-of-7, team they've lost to last ten in a row (3-7 vs spread). Dallas is 28-14 vs spread on the road this year; they lost last seven visits to Alamo. Spurs had 15-0 run in 4th quarter to pull Game 1 out; two days off between games helps older Spurs, whose bench (except for Ginobili) was combined -45 in 51:00 played. Starters for Dallas shot just 32% in Game 1; their bench played well.

Aldridge had 46 points, 18 boards in Game 1 OT win; Portland won ten of last 11 games; they're 26-16 vs spread on road this season. Blazers lost five of last seven games with Rockets-- last eight tilts in series went over total. Portland lost three of last four visits to Houston, losing by 15-13-5 points. Rockets are 22-18-1 vs spread at home this season, but Harden better shoot better than 8-28, or this will be short series.




NBA

Wednesday, April 23

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
CHARLOTTE vs. MIAMI
Charlotte is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Miami
Charlotte is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Miami
Miami is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 6 games at home

8:00 PM
DALLAS vs. SAN ANTONIO
Dallas is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Dallas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Antonio
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of San Antonio's last 16 games

9:30 PM
PORTLAND vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Portland's last 9 games when playing on the road against Houston
Portland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Houston is 15-2 SU in its last 17 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Houston's last 10 games at home


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NBA

Wednesday, April 23

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Wednesday's NBA playoffs betting news and notes
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Charlotte Bobcats vs. Miami Heat (-10.5, 186)

Al Jefferson suffered a plantar fasciitis injury to his left foot in the opening game of the series and plans on being cleared to play. “I’m suiting up,” Jefferson told reporters. “It will take more than that to make me sit down.” Charlotte needs a healthy and productive Jefferson to be competitive in the series and coach Steve Clifford will be watching the big man closely in Wednesday’s mid-day shootaround. Kemba Walker was just 6-of-15 shooting and committed six turnovers in Game 1 and pointed at himself as somebody who needs to step up due to Jefferson’s situation.

Miami posted a 99-88 victory in the series opener as forward LeBron James scored 27 points and guard Dwyane Wade added 23. Miami received a surprise Game 1 contribution from backup small forward James Jones, who scored 12 points in 14 minutes. Jones played just 18 total minutes over a 3 1/2-month portion of the season until receiving some playing time opportunities in late March and even he was surprised when coach Erik Spoelstra inserted him midway through the second quarter. The Heat went 11-of-23 from 3-point range in the opener, led by four from James.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-0 in the last four meetings.
* Favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings.
* Bobcats are 2-5 ATS in the last seven meetings in Miami.


Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs (-8, 198)

Although it fizzled down the stretch of Game 1 in spectacular fashion, Dallas has tried to take some solace in the fact that the game was there for the taking after so many one-sided games between the teams of late. Vince Carter was one of three Mavericks reserves to score in double figures (guard Devin Harris had a team-high 19 points) in the opener, as the Dallas bench outscored its starters 46-39. Dallas' leading scorer Dirk Nowitzki was limited to 11 points on 4-of-14 shooting.

The manner in which the Mavericks' second unit dominated was notable, as San Antonio boasts a normally solid supporting cast that was limited to 23 points on 7-of-26 shooting. Nine Spurs averaged at least 8.2 points during the regular season but only seven managed to even get into the scoring column in Game 1, with usual contributor Marco Belinelli - who averaged 11.4 points this season - missing all four of his shots and going scoreless in 12 minutes. San Antonio had a 48-40 edge on the glass and a 56-32 advantage in points in the paint.

TRENDS:

* Under is 9-3 in the last 12 meetings in San Antonio.
* Mavericks are 4-12 ATS in the last 16 meetings.
* Road team is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.


Portland Trail Blazers vs. Houston Rockets (-6, 214.5)

LaMarcus Aldridge put on the best performance in Portland’s playoff history with a franchise-record 46 points to go with 18 rebounds as the Trail Blazers recorded a 122-120 overtime win in the opener. While Aldridge and point guard Damian Lillard (31 points) were having customary big games, shooting guard Wesley Matthews was the unsung standout. Matthews had 18 points and three steals and was the primary defender on Harden for most of the contest. Portland received just seven points on 2-of-14 shooting from its bench in Game 1.

Houston hopes for a better shooting performance from guard James Harden, who was just 8-of-28 from the field while scoring 27 points in the opener. Point guard Patrick Beverley has been cleared to play after once again injuring his troublesome right knee in the opener. An MRI exam displayed no new damage but the knee remains a concern as Beverley tore the meniscus in late March and rest was the route taken as opposed to season-ending surgery. The feisty Beverley plays with a relentless in-your-face style and insists the knee isn’t an issue moving forward.

TRENDS:

* Over is 8-0 in the last eight meetings.
* Road team is 7-3-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
* Underdog is 12-5-1 ATS in the last 18 meetings.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Wednesday, April 23


Bobcats' F Al Jefferson, questionable Wednesday

Jefferson suffered a left foot injury during Sunday's Game 1, but was able to play though the injury. He will be a game-time decision for Game 2 on Wednesday against the Heat.


Bettors hope to cash in on another Rockets-Blazers Over

Something about the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers getting together has the scoreboard operator working overtime.

When the two teams put up a combined 242 points in Game 1 of their Western Conference Playoff series, they soared past the closing total of 215.5. That extended their run of Overs to eight-straight meetings dating back to February 2013.

Oddsmakers opened the total for Game 2 at 213.5, but that has since moved up a full point to 214.5.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA

Wednesday, April 23


Pacers reportedly got into fight before Game 1

It became pretty obvious that the Indianapolis Pacers were crumbling down the stretch both on the court and in the locker room, but apparently it deteriorated into violence. Apparent tension between Lance Stephenson and Evan Turner boiled over into a brawl before Game 1 according to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.

"Two Indiana Pacers dragged a cursing, cut Evan Turner out of the Bankers Life Fieldhouse court, untangling him from a practice-floor fistfight with teammate Lance Stephenson," reports Wojnarowski.

The Pacers turned it around Tuesday night beating up on the Atlanta Hawks 101-85 to even up the series.

[StarDust Bum]

Wednesday's Tip Sheet

April 22, 2014


**Bobcats at Heat**

-- Miami (55-28 straight up, 38-43-2 against the spread) took a 1-0 series lead by taking the opener over Charlotte by a 99-88 count as a 10-point home favorite. LeBron James was the catalyst with a game-high 27 points and nine rebounds. Dwyane Wade added 23 points and five assists, while Chris Bosh and James Jones chipped in with 13 and 12 points, respectively.

-- Charlotte (43-40 SU, 47-33-3 ATS) led 21-14 late in the first quarter of Game 1 when Al Jefferson left the game for five minutes with an injured foot. Jefferson played 35-plus minutes and produced 18 points and 10 rebounds despite having a noticeable limp in the last three quarters. Kemba Walker scored a team-best 20 points. Gary Neal scored 17 points off the bench, while Josh McRoberts finished with 15 points and seven rebounds.

-- For Game 2, most books have the Heat favored by 10.5 with a total of 186. Gamblers can take the Bobcats to win outright for a +500 return (risk $100 to win $500).

-- Since James signed with Miami, the Heat has beaten Charlotte 16 consecutive times.

-- Jefferson, who averages 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, is 'probable' for Game 2, but the foot injury could keep him from performing at an elite level.

-- The 'over' is 45-38 overall for the Heat, cashing in six of its last nine games. In its home games, Miami has seen the 'over' go 23-19.

-- The 'under' is 42-39-2 overall for Charlotte, but the 'over' is 24-17-1 in its road assignments.

-- The 'over' has hit in four straight head-to-head meetings between these teams.

-- Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Eastern on TNT.

**Mavericks at Spurs**

-- San Antonio (63-20 SU, 45-38 ATS) played from behind for much of the game but nonetheless captured a 90-85 home win in the series opener. But Dallas took the cash as a 9.5-point underdog, while the 175 combined points stayed way 'under' the 203-point total. Tim Duncan led the way with 27 points and seven rebounds, while Tony Parker produced 21 points, six assists and four boards. Manu Ginobili was effective off the bench, contributing 17 points, six boards and three assists.

-- In the Game 1 loss, Dallas (49-34 SU, 45-38 ATS) had five players score in double figures led by Devin Harris, who finished with 19 points and five assists. Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis were held to 11 points apiece, as both players made just 4-of-14 shots from the field.

-- For Wednesday's Game 2, most books have Gregg Popovich's club listed as an eight-point favorite with a total of 198. The Mavs are +320 on the money line (risk $100 to win $320).

-- The updated series price at Sportsbook.ag has the Spurs at -1300, while the Mavs are +800 on the comeback (risk $100 to $800).

-- San Antonio has won 10 straight games over Dallas. Also, the Spurs bring a 16-game home winning streak into Wednesday's contest.

-- The 'over' is 45-38 overall for the Mavs, 21-21 in their road assignments. Regardless of the venue, the 'under' has cashed at a 5-2 clip in Dallas's last seven contests.

-- The 'over' is 44-38-1 overall for San Antonio, 21-20-1 in its home games.

-- NBA-TV will have the telecast at 8:05 p.m. Eastern.

**Trail Blazers at Rockets**

-- Houston (54-29 SU, 40-41-2 ATS) dropped Game 1 after allowing a late fourth-quarter lead, in addition to an overtime advantage, to get away in a 122-120 defeat. Portland won outright as a 5.5-point underdog, hooking up money-line supporters with a +190 payout (risk $100 to win $190). Bettors on the 'under' had to check into the Heartbreak Hotel as 'over' backers cashed a fortunate winner when the 30 points scored during the extra session surpassed the 215.5-point mark. The teams combined for only 212 combined in regulation.

-- LaMarcus Aldridge scored a franchise playoff record 46 points and pulled down 18 rebounds in Game 1. Damian Lillard scored 31 points including all sorts of clutch plays at the end of regulation and overtime. His tying and go-ahead free throws with 17 seconds left in OT were the difference. In the losing effort, Dwight Howard finished with 27 points, 15 rebounds and four blocked shots. James Harden had 27 points, six assists and five boards. Chandler Parsons scored 24 points and pulled down six rebounds.

-- For Game 2, most spots have the Rockets listed as a six-point 'chalk' with a total of 214.5. Gamblers can take the Trail Blazers to win outright for a +230 return (risk $100 to win $230).

-- The updated series price at Sportsbook has Portland at -130 vs. Houston (+110).

-- Portland (55-28 SU, 45-38 ATS) has seen the 'over' 47-35-1 overall, 25-17 in its road assignments.

-- Portland has won six in a row and 10 of its last 11. The Trail Blazers are 7-4 ATS during this span. They have covered the number in four of their last five outings as underdogs.

-- The 'over' is 45-36-2 overall for the Rockets, 23-18-1 in their home games. The 'over' is in the midst of a remarkable 15-4 run in Houston's last 19 contests.

-- The 'over' has hit in eight consecutive head-to-head meetings between these Western Conference rivals.

-- Tip-off is slated for 9:35 p.m. Eastern on TNT.

[StarDust Bum]

2014 Playoff Results

April 22, 2014


Betting Results

First Round
Wager Favorites-Underdogs Home-Away
Straight Up 6-7 6-7
Against the Spread 4-8-1 4-8-1
Total
Over-Under 9-4


Eastern Conference First Round

(1) Indiana vs. (8) Atlanta
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Atlanta (+8, +350) at Indiana 101-93 Underdog Over (185.5)
2 Atlanta at Indiana (-7.5) 101-85 Favorite Under (187)
3 Indiana at Atlanta - - -
4 Indiana at Atlanta - - -
5 Atlanta at Indiana - - -
6 Indiana at Atlanta - - -
7 Atlanta at Indiana - - -


(2) Miami vs. (7) Charlotte
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Charlotte at Miami (-10) 99-88 Favorite Over (186)
2 Charlotte at Miami - - -
3 Miami at Charlotte - - -
4 Miami at Charlotte - - -
5 Charlotte at Miami - - -
6 Miami at Charlotte - - -
7 Charlotte at Miami - - -


(3) Toronto vs. (6) Brooklyn
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Brooklyn (+3.5, +145) at Toronto 94-87 Underdog Under (192.5)
2 Brooklyn at Toronto (-5) 100-95 Push Over (191)
3 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
4 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
5 Brooklyn at Toronto - - -
6 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
7 Brooklyn at Toronto - - -


(4) Chicago vs. (5) Washington
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Washington (+4.5, +170) at Chicago 102-93 Underdog Over (178.5)
2 Washington (+5, +200) at Chicago 101-99 (OT) Underdog Over (180.5)
3 Chicago at Washington - - -
4 Chicago at Washington - - -
5 Washington at Chicago - - -
6 Chicago at Washington - - -
7 Washington at Chicago - - -



Western Conference First Round

(1) San Antonio vs. (8) Dallas
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Dallas at San Antonio (-9) 90-85 Underdog Under (203.5)
2 Dallas at San Antonio - - -
3 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
4 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
5 Dallas at San Antonio - - -
6 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
7 Dallas at San Antonio - - -


(2) Oklahoma City vs. (7) Memphis
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Memphis at Oklahoma City (-8) 100-86 Favorite Under (190.5)
2 Memphis (+7, +290) at Oklahoma City 111-105 (OT) Underdog Over (190.5)
3 Oklahoma City at Memphis - - -
4 Oklahoma City at Memphis - - -
5 Memphis at Oklahoma City - - -
6 Oklahoma City at Memphis - - -
7 Memphis at Oklahoma City - - -


(3) L.A. Clippers vs. (6) Golden State
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Golden State (+7.5, +310) at Los Angeles 109-105 Underdog Over (211)
2 Golden State at Los Angeles (-8) 138-98 Favorite Over (212.5)
3 Los Angeles at Golden State - - -
4 Los Angeles at Golden State - - -
5 Golden State at Los Angeles - - -
6 Los Angeles at Golden State - - -
7 Golden State at Los Angeles - - -


(4) Houston vs. (5) Portland
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Portland (+5.5, +190) at Houston 122-120 (OT) Underdog Over (215.5)
2 Portland at Houston - - -
3 Houston at Portland - - -
4 Houston at Portland - - -
5 Portland at Houston - - -
6 Houston at Portland - - -
7 Portland at Houston - - -

[StarDust Bum]

Wednesday, April 23

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Charlotte - 7:00 PM ET Miami -9.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Miami - Under 187.5 500 *****

Dallas - 8:00 PM ET Dallas +7.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY
San Antonio - Over 200.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY

Portland - 9:30 PM ET Houston -6.5 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Houston - Over 215 500 TRIPLE PLAY

[StarDust Bum]

Record in the playoffs:

8 - 3 ..............................*****

5 - 4 ..............................double play

2 - 5...............................triple play

[StarDust Bum]

Record in the playoffs as of Wednesday Night :

8 - 4 ..............................*****

7 - 4 ..............................double play

3 - 7...............................triple play

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Oklahoma City at Memphis
After dropping Game 2 in Oklahoma City, the Thunder head to Memphis (27-14 at home) tonight and come in with a 1-6 ATS record in their last 7 road games against a team with a winning home record. Memphis is the pick (+2) according to Dunkel, which has the Grizzlies favored by 2. Dunkel Pick: Memphis (+2). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

THURSDAY, APRIL 24

Game 733-734: Indiana at Atlanta (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 124.204; Atlanta 119.522
Dunkel Line & Total: Indiana by 4 1/2; 189 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 2; 186
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (-2); Over

Game 735-736: Oklahoma City at Memphis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 121.964; Memphis 123.895
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 2; 186
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 2; 190
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (+2); Under

Game 737-738: LA Clippers at Golden State (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Clippers 124.504; Golden State 125.707
Dunkel Line & Total: Golden State by 1; 209
Vegas Line & Total: LA Clippers by 1 1/2; 215 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Golden State (+1 1/2); Under




NBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, April 24

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INDIANA (57 - 27) at ATLANTA (39 - 45) - 4/24/2014, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 9-9 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 10-9 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
11 of 19 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OKLAHOMA CITY (60 - 24) at MEMPHIS (51 - 33) - 4/24/2014, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in road games second half of the season this season.
MEMPHIS is 95-80 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 105-74 ATS (+23.6 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1996.
MEMPHIS is 56-37 ATS (+15.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 56-42 ATS (+9.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 95-79 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 83-68 ATS (+8.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 119-79 ATS (+32.1 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 35-18 ATS (+15.2 Units) off a upset loss as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 15-7 ATS (+7.3 Units) after allowing 105 points or more this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 56-36 ATS (+16.4 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 39-22 ATS (+14.8 Units) after playing 3 consecutive home games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 12-6 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 9-9 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
10 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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LA CLIPPERS (58 - 26) at GOLDEN STATE (52 - 32) - 4/24/2014, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 157-215 ATS (-79.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 112-148 ATS (-50.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in April games over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in the first round of the playoffs since 1996.
GOLDEN STATE is 33-20 ATS (+11.0 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 54-39 ATS (+11.1 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 20-11 ATS (+7.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 52-39 ATS (+9.1 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
GOLDEN STATE is 33-21 ATS (+9.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 47-36 ATS (+7.4 Units) in all games this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 25-15 ATS (+8.5 Units) in road games this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 31-21 ATS (+7.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 8-6 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 8-6 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
10 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NBA
Short Sheet

Thursday, April 24

Indiana at Atlanta, 7:05 ET
Indiana: 17-8 ATS after covering 2 of their last 3 against the spread
Atlanta: 6-15 ATS when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days

Oklahoma City at Memphis, 8:00 ET
Oklahoma City: 20-9 ATS after failing to cover 2 of their last 3 ATS
Memphis: 6-15 ATS in home games after playing a road game

LA Clippers at Golden State, 10:35 ET
LA Clippers: 26-12 ATS after 5 or more consecutive overs
Golden State: 15-24 ATS after having won 4 or 5 of their last 6




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Thursday, April 24

Pacers are now 7-10 in last 17 games, 7-25-1 against spread in last 33, as they came back from dead with 31-13 3rd quarter in Game 2, after being down four at half. Indiana is 3-3 vs Atlanta this season, 1-1 here- they lost 13 of last 15 visits to Atlanta. Hawks won seven of last ten games. Scola had 20 points in 19:00 off bench in Game 2; George shot 9-16 from floor last game, first time in 14 games he shot 50%+ from floor.

Thunder lost four of last five visits to Memphis; their bench is 10-38 in series, as Ibaka has been only scoring option after Durant/Westbrook. Griz covered twice in last seven games as an underdog. Thunder has won four of six vs Memphis this year. Grizzlies won six of last seven games; they lost Game 1 vs Thunder LY, then won series in 5- their bench made 13-23 in Game 2, after going 9-28 in Game 1.

Clippers won Game 2 by 40 after close loss in Game 1; home side won eight of last nine series games; Clippers lost their last five visits to Oakland- nine of last 11 series games went over total. LA won eight of its last 12 games, with ten of those 12 going over the total. Warriors won six of last nine games overall; under is 47-35 in their games this year, 22-17 on road. Favorites are 7-9 SU, 5-11 vs spread; over is 11-5 in NBA playoffs so far this month.




NBA

Thursday, April 24

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
INDIANA vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Indiana's last 15 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 5 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Atlanta's last 15 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games at home

8:00 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. MEMPHIS
Oklahoma City is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
Oklahoma City is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing Memphis
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Memphis's last 5 games at home
Memphis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

10:30 PM
LA CLIPPERS vs. GOLDEN STATE
LA Clippers are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Golden State
LA Clippers are 19-6 SU in their last 25 games
Golden State is 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Golden State's last 11 games when playing LA Clippers


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NBA

Thursday, April 24

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Game of the Day: Thunder at Grizzlies
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Oklahoma City Thunder at Memphis Grizzlies (+2, 190)

The Memphis Grizzlies swiped homecourt advantage away from Oklahoma City and attempt to take a 2-1 series lead when they host the Thunder on Wednesday in the seven-game Western Conference first-round series. The seventh-seeded Grizzlies recorded a 111-105 overtime victory in Game 2 to avoid a hole and are in a good position with the next two games being at home. Kevin Durant is averaging 34.5 points in the series for second-seeded Oklahoma City.

Durant kept the Thunder alive with a late four-point play in regulation in Game 2 as Oklahoma City eventually forced overtime before Zach Randolph scored eight of his 25 points in the extra session to help the Grizzlies prevail. Durant scored 36 points but it took him 28 field-goal attempts (making 12 shots) to get there as he was hounded throughout by Memphis defensive stalwart Tony Allen. “It is typical defense,” Durant told reporters. “They’ve been playing it all season. We got to move the ball a little bit better.” The Grizzlies scored 25 more points in Game 2 than they did in the opener.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, TNT, FSN Oklahoma (Oklahoma City), SportSouth (Memphis)

LINE HISTORY: The Grizzlies opened as 1-point home dogs and that has been bet to +2. The total opened 190 and has held firm since.

INJURY REPORT: Grizzlies - G Nick Calathes (Out, suspended), F Quincy Pondexter (Out, foot)

WHY BET THE THUNDER: Oklahoma City was eliminated from last season’s playoffs by the Grizzlies and the players are very aware that they lost in both visits to Memphis. The Thunder averaged just 89 points in the two losses – played without Russell Westbrook – and know they can’t afford to lose both games this time around. “As we go out on the road, it’s a great opportunity to develop the type of composure, poise, concentration and focus that you have to have in the playoffs,” veteran guard Derek Fisher told reporters. Fisher is one of the players who needs to step up his game as he has yet to make a 3-pointer while averaging 5.5 points in the series.

WHY BET THE GRIZZLIES: Allen has averaged 34 minutes in the first two games with small forward Tayshaun Prince dealing with an illness and his defensive prowess being needed. When guarding Durant, he has been relentless with applying pressure and trying to keep the ball from getting into the hands of the Oklahoma City superstar. Allen doesn’t understand the big deal his suffocating defense received in the aftermath of Game 2. “That was just blue collar,” Allen told reporters. “I’m no star, I’m blue collar.” Allen is averaging 10.5, seven rebounds and 2.5 steals in the series.

TRENDS:

* Favorite is 4-1-1 ATS in the last six meetings.
* Grizzlies are 6-1 ATS in their last seven Conference Quarterfinals games.
* Thunder are 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Grizzlies last five Conference Quarterfinals games.

CONSENSUS: 67 percent of wagers are on the Thunder -2. 58 percent of wagers are on Over 190.

[StarDust Bum]

Thursday, April 24

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Indiana - 7:00 PM ET Atlanta +2 500 *****
Atlanta - Over 186.5 500 *****

Oklahoma City - 8:00 PM ET Oklahoma City -2.5 500 *****
Memphis - Over 189.5 500 *****

L.A. Clippers - 10:30 PM ET L.A. Clippers -3 500 TRIPLE PLAY
Golden State - Under 212 500 TRIPLE PLAY

[StarDust Bum]

Game 3 - Clippers at Warriors

April 24, 2014


Are the days of old school NBA playoff basketball over?

After watching the first 16 games of this year’s postseason, most would answer with an emphatic “yes.”

It’s probably too early to say that defense is optional but it’s fair to say that the offenses are ahead of the defensive units.

Those benefiting from this style has been bettors playing the ‘over’ on a regular basis. So far, the ‘over’ has produced a 12-4 record (75%) and that includes a 3-0 mark last night. I’m well aware that a couple of these winning tickets were helped with late pushes but the tempo and amount of 3-pointers being chucked is ridiculous.

Also, it doesn’t hurt when the refs are quick with the whistle and if these teams convert from the charity stripe, free points with the clock stopped are priceless for ‘over’ tickets. In last night’s Rockets-Trail Blazers matchup, the pair combined for 48-of-57 (84%) free throws. Portland posted a 112-105 win and the closing total was 215. You tell me if those freebies matter?

In tonight’s late-night battle between the Clippers and Warriors, my second question for you is how do you not bet the ‘over’ in this matchup?

Including the first two games in this series, Los Angeles has watched the ‘over’ cash in five straight and 10 of its last 12 games. During this span, the Clippers are averaging 113.5 points per game and more importantly, the defense hasn’t been that great (105.2 PPG).

Golden State has watched the ‘over’ cash in five straight games and even though it was held to 98 points in Game 2’s loss to the Clippers, the club is averaging 114 PPG in its last five.

As I mentioned above, free throws are a huge factor and they’ve played key roles in each of the first two games in this series. Golden State and L.A. took 60 attempts in Game 1 and only managed to convert 41 from the free throw line. The Warriors held off the Clippers for a 109-105 victory and the total (211) barely cashed.

It was a much different story at the line in Game 2. The pair connected on 54-of-62 (87%) free throws, which includes a 32-of-35 performance by the Clippers. The biggest surprise there is that Blake Griffin (9-of-10) and DeAndre Jordan (7-of-8) hit 16-of-18 from the line. Los Angeles wins 138-98 and the game cashes with four minutes to spare in the fourth quarter.

Along with the ‘over’ being a cash-cow this postseason, the underdogs have been just as good. The pups have gone 9-7 straight up and 11-4-1 against the spread.

Tonight’s matchup could have you scratching your head because it will feature your first home ‘dog. Actually, the road team is favored in all three games on Thursday.

Los Angeles opened a 2-point road favorite for Game 3 and the total is hovering around 215 points. In the two regular season games played from the Bay Area, Golden State captured a 105-103 win on Dec. 25 and a 111-92 victory on Jan. 30 against the Clippers.

Three straight on Thursday?

VegasInsider.com handicapper Vince Akins has dug into his database and dug up some great trends to back the Warriors. He explained, “Golden State is a tough place to play, particularly in the playoffs where they are 6-1 SU as a home dog in the postseason. The Warriors committed a ridiculous 26 turnovers in Game 2 which did not help their cause. Fortunately, Mark Jackson’s team has bounced back from the sloppy play. In the last eight situations after they committed at least 20 turnovers, the club is 7-0-1 ATS in these games.”

Some ‘cappers like Akins like to use trends in their analysis while others use the eyeball test. One of them being our friends at Doc’s Sports and they believe L.A. is the superior team.

They said, “The Clippers’ loss in Game 1 was a fluke. They were off all night and Blake Griffin was in foul trouble and played only 19 minutes before fouling out. L.A. showed us in Game 2 that this is a real mismatch and maybe this team has first-game jitters or something. We expect more of the Game 2 Clippers in Thursday’s matchup.”

“We’re also aware that the Warriors won both meetings versus the Clippers at Oracle Arena this season. However, in one of those games Griffin got tossed while the Clippers were up in the fourth quarter and the other loss came on no days rest and L.A. didn’t have point guard Chris Paul in the lineup.”

Oddsmakers at Sportsbook.ag have the Clippers listed as a minus-310 favorite (Bet $100 to win $31) to win the series. You can back the Warriors at plus-255 odds (Bet $100 to win $255) to capture the best-of-seven battle and they have homecourt advantage.

[StarDust Bum]

NBA
Dunkel

Houston at Portland
Down 0-2 in the series, the Rockets head to Portland tonight where they are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games against the Blazers. Houston is the pick (+3) according to Dunkel, which has the Rockets favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Houston (+3). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25

Game 739-740: Toronto at Brooklyn (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 118.359; Brooklyn 126.543
Dunkel Line & Total: Brooklyn by 8; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Brooklyn by 5; 190 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Brooklyn (-5); Over

Game 741-742: Chicago at Washington (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 118.518; Washington 119.449
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1; 179
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 3; 183
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+3); Under

Game 743-744: Houston at Portland (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 123.778; Portland 122.338
Dunkel Line & Total: Houston by 1 1/2; 211
Vegas Line & Total: Portland by 3; 216
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+3); Under




NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, April 25

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TORONTO (49 - 35) at BROOKLYN (45 - 39) - 4/25/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BROOKLYN is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in home games second half of the season this season.
TORONTO is 46-35 ATS (+7.5 Units) in all games this season.
TORONTO is 20-11 ATS (+7.9 Units) as an underdog this season.
TORONTO is 25-15 ATS (+8.5 Units) in road games this season.
TORONTO is 66-42 ATS (+19.8 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 190 and 194.5 points since 1996.
TORONTO is 26-14 ATS (+10.6 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 28-15 ATS (+11.5 Units) after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 31-22 ATS (+6.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BROOKLYN is 6-6 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
BROOKLYN is 8-6 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
7 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CHICAGO (48 - 36) at WASHINGTON (46 - 38) - 4/25/2014, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 90-73 ATS (+9.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 15-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 25-16 ATS (+7.4 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
WASHINGTON is 321-386 ATS (-103.6 Units) in home games since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 124-161 ATS (-53.1 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 8-4 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 7-5 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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HOUSTON (54 - 30) at PORTLAND (56 - 28) - 4/25/2014, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) in April games over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 23-32 ATS (-12.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
PORTLAND is 46-38 ATS (+4.2 Units) in all games this season.
PORTLAND is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) off an upset win as an underdog this season.
HOUSTON is 84-54 ATS (+24.6 Units) in road games off a upset loss as a favorite since 1996.
HOUSTON is 104-68 ATS (+29.2 Units) in road games after allowing 105 points or more since 1996.
HOUSTON is 51-26 ATS (+22.4 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1996.
PORTLAND is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in home games in April games over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in home games against Southwest division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 24-36 ATS (-15.6 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.

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

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NBA
Short Sheet

Friday, April 25

Toronto at Brooklyn, 7:05 ET
Toronto: 20-11 ATS as an underdog
Brooklyn: 3-11 ATS after a loss by 6 points or less

Chicago at Washington, 8:05 ET
Chicago: 15-3 ATS in road games on Friday nights
Washington: 11-25 ATS off 2 or more consecutive road wins

Houston at Portland, 10:35 ET
Houston: 43-55 ATS when playing 5 or less games in 14 days
Portland: 9-4 ATS on Friday nights




NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, April 25

DeRozan bounced back from 3-13 Game 1 effort with 30 points in last game, as Raptors evened series; Toronto is -19 in turnovers (37-18) in series, but were +22 on boards in Game 2, with 19 offensive rebounds. . Nets are 11-48 from arc in series; teams split pair in this building this season. Raptors lost four of last five visits here overall. Nets lost five of last seven games, but are 24-17 vs spread at home this year.

Washington won four of five vs Bulls this season- they've won last six games overall, with last four going over total. Chicago lost three of last four visits here, losing by 13-4-3 points. Higher seeded teams that went down 2-0 in series have won only three of 27 series. Bulls lost four of last five games, with five of last six going over total. Favorites are 8-11 SU, 5-14 vs spread; over is 13-6 in NBA playoffs so far this month. .

Aldridge had 89 points, 26 boards in pair of road wins to open series; Portland won 11 of last 12 games; they've won last four home games, all by 6 or less points, but Houston won five of their last seven viits here. Blazers had lost five of last six games with Rockets before this series- last nine tilts in series went over total. Harden is 14-47 from floor this series; if that number doesn't get better, this will be quick series.




NBA

Friday, April 25

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
TORONTO vs. BROOKLYN
Toronto is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
Toronto is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Brooklyn is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Brooklyn is 16-2 SU in its last 18 games at home

8:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. WASHINGTON
Chicago is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Washington
Chicago is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 6 games when playing Chicago

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

[StarDust Bum]

2014 Playoff Results

April 25, 2014


Betting Results

First Round
Wager Favorites-Underdogs Home-Away
Straight Up 8-11 9-10
Against the Spread 4-14-1 7-11-1
Total
Over-Under 12-7


Eastern Conference First Round

(1) Indiana vs. (8) Atlanta
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Atlanta (+8, +350) at Indiana 101-93 Underdog Over (185.5)
2 Atlanta at Indiana (-7.5) 101-85 Favorite Under (187)
3 Indiana at Atlanta (+2.5, +120) 98-85 Underdog Under (187)
4 Indiana at Atlanta - - -
5 Atlanta at Indiana - - -
6 Indiana at Atlanta - - -
7 Atlanta at Indiana - - -


(2) Miami vs. (7) Charlotte
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Charlotte at Miami (-10) 99-88 Favorite Over (186)
2 Charlotte at Miami (-10) 101-97 Underdog Over (187.5)
3 Miami at Charlotte - - -
4 Miami at Charlotte - - -
5 Charlotte at Miami - - -
6 Miami at Charlotte - - -
7 Charlotte at Miami - - -


(3) Toronto vs. (6) Brooklyn
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Brooklyn (+3.5, +145) at Toronto 94-87 Underdog Under (192.5)
2 Brooklyn at Toronto (-5) 100-95 Push Over (191)
3 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
4 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
5 Brooklyn at Toronto - - -
6 Toronto at Brooklyn - - -
7 Brooklyn at Toronto - - -


(4) Chicago vs. (5) Washington
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Washington (+4.5, +170) at Chicago 102-93 Underdog Over (178.5)
2 Washington (+5, +200) at Chicago 101-99 (OT) Underdog Over (180.5)
3 Chicago at Washington - - -
4 Chicago at Washington - - -
5 Washington at Chicago - - -
6 Chicago at Washington - - -
7 Washington at Chicago - - -



Western Conference First Round

(1) San Antonio vs. (8) Dallas
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Dallas at San Antonio (-9) 90-85 Underdog Under (203.5)
2 Dallas (+7.5, +300) at San Antonio 113-92 Underdog Over (201.5)
3 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
4 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
5 Dallas at San Antonio - - -
6 San Antonio at Dallas - - -
7 Dallas at San Antonio - - -


(2) Oklahoma City vs. (7) Memphis
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Memphis at Oklahoma City (-8) 100-86 Favorite Under (190.5)
2 Memphis (+7, +290) at Oklahoma City 111-105 (OT) Underdog Over (190.5)
3 Oklahoma City at Memphis (+2.5, +125) 98-95 (OT) Underdog Over (190(
4 Oklahoma City at Memphis - - -
5 Memphis at Oklahoma City - - -
6 Oklahoma City at Memphis - - -
7 Memphis at Oklahoma City - - -


(3) L.A. Clippers vs. (6) Golden State
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Golden State (+7.5, +310) at Los Angeles 109-105 Underdog Over (211)
2 Golden State at Los Angeles (-8) 138-98 Favorite Over (212.5)
3 Los Angeles (-3) at Golden State 98-96 Underdog Under (212)
4 Los Angeles at Golden State - - -
5 Golden State at Los Angeles - - -
6 Los Angeles at Golden State - - -
7 Golden State at Los Angeles - - -


(4) Houston vs. (5) Portland
Game Matchup Score Favorite-Underdog Over-Under
1 Portland (+5.5, +190) at Houston 122-120 (OT) Underdog Over (215.5)
2 Portland (+6.5, +270) at Houston 112-105 Underdog Over (215)
3 Houston at Portland - - -
4 Houston at Portland - - -
5 Portland at Houston - - -
6 Houston at Portland - - -
7 Portland at Houston - - -

[StarDust Bum]

Rockets at Blazers - Game 3

April 25, 2014


Only three teams in the first round of the NBA playoffs head into Game 3 of their series up 2-0. Expectedly, Miami took the first two contests from Charlotte, while Washington rallied for a pair of road victories at Chicago. Out west, the Blazers went on the road to take two games against the stunned Rockets, as Portland is in a prime spot to advance to the second round, as long as they can take care of home-court.

Portland rallied from a 13-point deficit in Game 1 at Houston to beat the Rockets in overtime, 122-120 to cash outright as a 5 ½-point underdog. LaMarcus Aldridge dominated the Rockets with a 46-point, 18-rebound effort, while Damian Lillard wore down the Houston backcourt in his playoff debut with 31 points. The Rockets actually built a five-point lead in overtime, but Kevin McHale’s club shot just 26-of-40 from the foul line, while James Harden missed 20 shots from the floor.

Game 2 barely went ‘over’ the total of 215 as the Blazers held off the Rockets, 112-105, to cover as 6 ½-point ‘dogs. All six games between these teams this season have finished ‘over’ the total, while Aldridge stepped up again for Portland with a 43-point output. Portland erased an eight-point deficit after the first quarter, as Harden and Chandler Parsons combined to misfire on 23 shots from the floor. In seven of nine quarters (including overtime of Game 1), the Blazers have outscored the Rockets, but now the target is on Portland’s back heading home.

VegasInsider.com handicapper Vince Akins has several solid trends that back the Blazers tonight. According to Akins, the Rockets are 0-8 ATS since Mar 06, 2012 on the road with at most one day of rest when they have lost their last three games SU and ATS. When Harden doesn’t shoot well, this Houston team doesn’t recover. In Akins’ database, the Rockets are 0-7 ATS since December 31, 2013 after Harden shot worse than 33% from the field.

From a totals perspective, handicapper Stephen Nover feels tonight’s contest will dip ‘under’ the total of 216. Nover explains, “Both matchups were lucky to go ‘over.’ They should have been ‘under.’ It took overtime to push Game 1 above the total. It looked like Game 2 was going to go under, too, but 17 points were scored during the final 67 seconds in a flurry of free throws.” Nover makes an excellent point on the struggles of Houston’s All-Star shooting guard, “Harden's been cold for a while now as he finished the regular season shooting 36.1 percent from the floor during the last five games.”

The Blazers have won 31 of 41 games at the Moda Center, but put together a 19-22 ATS record at home. Portland has captured seven of its last eight home contests, but the Blazers covered just three times in this span. In two home meetings in the regular season with the Rockets, Portland dropped a 116-101 decision in early November as two-point favorites, as Houston shot a blazing 54% shooting from the floor. In the second matchup at the Moda Center in mid-December, Aldridge put up a ridiculous line of 31 points and 25 rebounds to lead Portland to a 111-104 win as two-point favorites.

The Rockets opened up the series as a -195 (Bet $195 to win $100) favorite to advance to the second round. However, following a pair of home defeats, the tables have turned as the Blazers are now a -440 favorite to win this series. If you believe Houston can come back and win four of the next five games, the Rockets are listed at +350 (Bet $100 to win $350), which isn’t crazy since Houston has won two of the last three visits to Oregon.

The Blazers enter tonight’s action as a three-point home favorite, while the total is sitting between 215 ½ and 216. The Rockets own a 1-5 SU/ATS record in their last six road games, as things tip off at 10:35 PM EST and the game can be seen on ESPN.

[StarDust Bum]

Eastern Conference Tips
April 24, 2014

Toronto (49-35) at Brooklyn (45-39)

Eastern Conference First Round - Game 2
Game 3 - Series tied 1-1
Tip-off: Tuesday, 7:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line: Toronto -4.5, Total: 191

The Raptors look to steal a win back from the Nets when the two teams meet for Game 3 in New York on Friday evening.

Toronto was in a must-win situation on Tuesday night and was able to pick up the 100-95 victory (ATS push) to even up the series at 1-1. The Raptors won despite committing 20 turnovers and being outscored by eight points in the third quarter. They crushed their opponent on the glass with a 52-30 rebounding advantage Toronto has now won seven of its past 10 games (3-6-1 ATS), and now hits the road where it is a solid 22-19 SU (25-15-1 ATS) this season.

Brooklyn's loss on Tuesday drops the club to 2-5 SU (1-5-1 ATS) in the past seven contests, but it is happy to return home considering its stellar 28-13 SU and 24-17 ATS records at Barclays Center. Over the past three seasons, the Nets hold a slight 8-6 SU advantage (6-6-2 ATS), including 4-2 SU (3-2-1 ATS) at home where Over has occurred in four of those six meetings. Both teams have multiple favorable betting trends for this contest, as the Raptors are 15-6 ATS (71%) after having lost two of their previous three games this season, and are 31-15 ATS (67%) after failing to cover the spread in two or more consecutive games over the past three seasons.

However, the Nets are 15-7 ATS (68%) revenging a road loss versus an opponent this season and 13-5 ATS (72%) in home games in the second half of this season. A win for the Raptors would help them to reclaim their home-court advantage in this series.

Toronto needed a big performance from SG DeMar DeRozan (22.0 PPG in series) in Game 2 and they certainly got that. DeRozan played 38 minutes and finished with 30 points (9-of-21 FG, 12-of-14 FT) after scoring just 14 in Game 1. He will need to continue to attack the basket and use his athleticism to take advantage of the slower Nets who attempt to defend him.

PF Amir Johnson (9.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG in series) had a good game for Toronto on Tuesday as well with 16 points (8-of-10 FG), nine rebounds, two blocks and a +12 rating in 37 minutes. Johnson had just two points in Game 1 and the Raptors will need him to continue playing well going forward.

PG Greivis Vasquez (14.5 PPG, 8.0 APG, 3.5 RPG in series) has given the Raptors some huge minutes off the bench this series with a near double-double in just 27.0 MPG. His +12 rating tied Johnson for the game's best mark in Game 2. Vasquez is able to give starting PG Kyle Lowry (18.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 7.0 APG in series) some rest, as well as play alongside him in two point-guard lineups. Lowry had 14 points (4-of-11 FG), nine rebounds and six assists in Game 2, but he has struggled to find his outside shot in these playoffs, making just 11-of-29 FG (38%).

C Jonas Valanciunas (16.0 PPG, 16.0 RPG in series) has played some of his best basketball in the playoffs with two straight double-doubles, but he has turned the ball over 11 times so far in this series. The Nets have not had an answer for his size (6-foot-11), and Toronto would be wise to keep feeding him in the post.

The Nets were unable to steal Game 2 in Toronto and a lot of that had to do with SF Paul Pierce (11.0 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 2.0 SPG in series) losing his Game 1 magic. After hitting some huge shots in the series opener to finish with 15 points, Pierce had just seven points on 2-of-11 FG (0-of-6 threes) on Tuesday. If Pierce is not making jumpers, the Nets will have trouble winning this series.

PG Deron Williams (19.5 PPG, 4.0 APG in series) had 15 points and five assists in Game 2, but he was not efficient shooting the ball (5-of-15 FG, 2-of-6 threes) and seemed a step slower than he did in Game 1. The move back to Brooklyn for Game 3 could re-energize the Nets’ superstar.

SG Joe Johnson (21.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.0 APG in series) had 18 points (7-of-13 FG) in 37 minutes on Tuesday, and his size has given the Raptors some trouble on the perimeter, so the Nets will continue to isolate him going forward. One player who was a huge spark for Brooklyn off the bench was PF Mirza Teletovic (8.0 PPG in 17.5 MPG in series). The sharpshooter came in and scored 14 points (5-of-11 FG, 3-of-6 threes) in just 23 minutes of play. He had just two points in Game 1, and his offense will be very important to this Nets team, especially if Pierce is off from outside.

C Kevin Garnett (9.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG in series) was much better offensively in Game 2, scoring 13 points on 5-of-6 FG, compared to his five points on 1-of-5 FG in Game 1.

Chicago (48-36) at Washington (46-38)

Eastern Conference First Round - Game 2
Game 3 - Washington leads series 2-0
Tip-off: Tuesday, 8:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line: Washington -3, Total: 181.5

The Wizards look to take a commanding 3-0 series lead on Friday night when they head back home to host the Bulls for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series.

Chicago had a comfortable 10-point lead with less than seven minutes remaining in Game 2, but allowed Washington to come roaring back to tie it up and eventually win 101-99 in overtime. The Wizards are now two wins away from securing their first playoff series victory since 2005, which was the only year they have won a postseason series since 1982. They are a pedestrian 22-19 SU (16-23 ATS) at home this season, but they have been rolling with six straight wins (SU and ATS).

The Bulls have been a strong road team this season at 21-20 SU (20-20-1 ATS), but are just 1-4 (SU and ATS) in the past five games overall, shooting under 40% FG in both road games during this timeframe. Over the past three seasons, Washington is 7-5 SU and 8-4 ATS against Chicago. Four of the five games played between these teams in the nation's capital over the past three seasons have gone Under the total. Over the past two seasons, the Bulls are 15-3 ATS (83%) in road games on a Friday night, but they are also a stellar 27-14 ATS (66%) off a home loss in the past three seasons. However, the Wizards are 24-13 ATS (65%) when playing six or less games in 14 days over the past two seasons, and are also 26-16 ATS (62%) after one or more consecutive overs this season.

The Bulls desperately needed a Game 2 victory, and despite their spectacular effort defensively, they were unable to pull out a win in overtime. PG D.J. Augustin (20.5 PPG, 5.0 APG in series) was huge off the bench for Chicago, finishing the game with a team-high 25 points (10-of-22 FG, 4-of-8 threes) and seven assists in 41 minutes. Augustin also led his team with a +8 rating in his 41 minutes, and his speed off the bench really helps open up the floor for the Bulls offense.

PF Taj Gibson (17.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 3.0 BPG in series) also was big for Chicago off the bench in Game 2 with 22 points (7-of-17 FG), 10 rebounds and three blocks in 36 minutes. His athleticism and strength inside gave the Wizards' frontcourt some serious problems. C Joakim Noah (15.0 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.5 APG in series) continues his efforts to will his team to victories but he cannot do it all by himself. Noah had 20 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks in 46 minutes of play on Tuesday, but not all was great as he had five turnovers, five fouls and a minus-4 rating for the game. Noah has struggled defensively at times, but what it really comes down to for Chicago is a lack of perimeter scoring.

SG Jimmy Butler (10.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.0 SPG in series) had just six points on 2-of-9 FG in Game 2 and will need to start hitting his shots with consistency if the Bulls are going to claw their way back into this series.

The Wizards made the ultimate statement as they went into Chicago and came away with not one, but two road victories as the lower-seeded team in this series. One of the biggest reasons for the success of this Washington team is the play of PF Nene Hilario (20.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.5 SPG in series). He was injured late in the season, but is looking healthier now than he ever has. In Game 2, the big man scored 17 points while also pulling down seven rebounds before fouling out. He has made 19-of-30 shots (63% FG) so far in the series, while really giving Noah trouble on both ends.

SG Bradley Beal (19.5 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.5 APG in series) hit some huge shots down the stretch on Tuesday to help get the Wizards back into the game and ultimately win. He had 26 points (9-of-20 FG, 4-of-7 threes) and seven rebounds after scoring just 13 points in Game 1. PG John Wall (16.0 PPG, 6.5 APG, 5.5 RPG, 2.5 SPG) wasn’t necessarily efficient scoring the ball with 16 points (6-of-15 FG) in 44 minutes in Game 2, but he was making excellent decisions late in the game and finished the contest with seven assists, five rebounds and three steals.

SF Trevor Ariza (13.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.0 APG in series) provided a well-rounded stat line of eight points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a game-high +12 rating on Tuesday, while the bench also pitched in with SF Martell Webster, PF Trevor Booker and PG Andre Miller combining for 27 points on 10-of-15 shooting.