Friday 12-15-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Members post your personal plays in the various sports forums @ IWS and our betting trackers!

NFL
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...3-NFL-Football (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?53-NFL-Football)

College Football
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...-NCAA-Football (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?54-NCAA-Football)

Baseball
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...57-ML-Baseball (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?57-ML-Baseball)

College Basketball
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...CAA-Basketball (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?55-NCAA-Basketball)

NBA
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...NBA-Basketball (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?56-NBA-Basketball)

NHL
http://www.investwithsports.com/newf...?58-NHL-Hockey (http://www.investwithsports.com/newforum/forumdisplay.php?58-NHL-Hockey)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct

RACE #7 - AQUEDUCT - 3:50 PM EASTERN POST
6½ FURLONGS DIRT FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD $40,000.00 OPTIONAL CLAIMING $59,000.00 PURSE

#4 COURT DANCER
#3 PALLADIAN BRIDGE
#2 ALABAMA BOUND
#5 ZEALOUS SCHOLAR

#4 COURT DANCER drops in class (-7), is the overall speed leader, and also has nice early speed abilities to compliment for this sprint. She's coming off a "POWER RUN PLACE" finish facing better company in her last start, missing a "Circle Trip" in that race by just a "photographed neck" at the wire. Jockey Irad Ortiz and Trainer Rudy Rodriguez send her to the post this afternoon ... they've "whacked the tote board" with 56% of more than 360 entries saddled as a team to date. #3 PALLADIAN BRIDGE, a 4-1 shot, has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of her last three outings, including back-to-back, "POWER RUN WINS" in her 2nd and 3rd races back.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Charles Town - Race #1 - Post: 7:00pm - Claiming - 4.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,000 Class Rating: 69

Rating: 4

#5 ONEMORESWEETKISS (ML=5/2)


ONEMORESWEETKISS - Rodriguez was aboard this mare in the last race and was impressed enough to take the horse right back. Coram drops her down to this class. You don't need too much more data to figure that this thoroughbred will be one to beat at this level. That 75 fig this mare garnered in her last race tells me she's a chief player this time. Recent Equibase speed figs show powerful pattern of improvement.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 IDENTITY THEFT (ML=2/1), #6 FLASH TIPS (ML=4/1), #3 CRIME BUZZ (ML=5/1),

IDENTITY THEFT - If you keep betting these sort of 'hanger' types, you're going to be frustrated most every time. FLASH TIPS - The fig last out doesn't fit very well in this race when I look at the class figure of today's race. Mark this thoroughbred as a possibly overvalued contestant. CRIME BUZZ - This less than sharp equine showed very little last time finishing seventh. Don't see any hint of improvement in today's event.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - ONEMORESWEETKISS - My analysis says it usually takes a pony one or two races after a layoff to get back into proper racing shape. That's just what we have here, so I expect a lot for this horse.





STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#5 ONEMORESWEETKISS is going to be the play if we are getting 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Skip

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Fair Grounds

Fair Grounds - Race 9

Exacta / $0.50 Trifecta / $0.10 Superfecta $0.50 Super Hi-5


Claiming $5,000 • 5 1/2 Furlongs • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 73 • Purse: $15,000 • Post: 5:05P
FOR ACCREDITED LA BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 15 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * OUTBACK JACK: Today is a sprint and this is the horse's third or fourth start after a layoff. Hor se has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. PHIL UP DA BANK: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. IL EST VITE: Today is a sprint and this is the hor se's third or fourth start after a layoff. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. TOOTH: Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Cla ss Rating at the distance/surface.
3
OUTBACK JACK
7/2

5/1
2
PHIL UP DA BANK
8/1

6/1
12
IL EST VITE
9/2

7/1
5
TOOTH
12/1

7/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
3
OUTBACK JACK
3

7/2
Front-runner
84

74

89.8

68.6

62.6
6
SO NILSSON
6

20/1
Front-runner
73

64

79.6

47.6

26.6
12
IL EST VITE
12

9/2
Alternator/Front-runner
75

75

67.2

70.6

65.1
1
GOOD ENOUGH SAID
1

6/1
Alternator/Front-runner
76

69

64.6

59.4

45.9
8
FINAL DEED
8

6/1
Stalker
65

66

66.4

55.4

41.4
9
VICKS FIRST PICK
9

12/1
Stalker
64

63

52.0

62.2

43.2
5
TOOTH
5

12/1
Alternator/Stalker
73

71

51.0

67.4

61.9
13
BET ON BLACK
13

10/1
Alternator/Stalker
77

74

45.6

61.8

49.8
2
PHIL UP DA BANK
2

8/1
Trailer
75

76

50.0

66.2

56.7
4
UNK'S RED MAN
4

20/1
Trailer
72

67

28.4

55.0

37.5
11
CALEB HAWK
11

8/1
Alternator/Non-contender
67

68

59.4

55.8

35.8
15
CANADIAN MAXIMUS
15

20/1
Alternator/Non-contender
67

66

56.4

56.6

30.1
7
ROBERT E. LEE
7

20/1
Alternator/Non-contender
68

61

54.2

39.6

19.1
10
IDOL MCARTNEYVALUE
10

12/1
Alternator/Non-contender
64

63

44.5

59.0

41.0
14
SUPER CHASE
14

30/1
Alternator/Non-contender
63

56

38.6

50.8

25.3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 7 - Maiden Claiming - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $22000 Class Rating: 72

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 5 HERESURLAMAMAMA 8/5

# 3 SONG OF MELODY 6/1

# 9 COSITA RICA 7/2

My selection in this competition is HERESURLAMAMAMA. Make a note that this one runs with second time Lasix today. Her 62 average has this filly with among the top speed figures here. Recently Gaffalione has been sizzling which may give the edge to this filly. SONG OF MELODY - Can't overlook the connections here, a 24 winning percentage, one of the best at getting into the winner's circle. Well above average win clip at this distance/surface. COSITA RICA - Has very strong Equibase Class Figures relative to this field - worth a look. Has to be considered based on the very strong speed figure put up in the last race.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Los Alamitos (Thoroughbred)

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 2 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $15000 Class Rating: 98

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $8,000, IF FOR $7,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 4 UCANTHANKMELATER 7/2

# 6 FREDDIES DREAM 5/2

# 1 SOUTH TEXAS LINGO 3/1

UCANTHANKMELATER looks to be the bet in here. I like the rider on this gelding - very strong chance to win the race. Could best this field based on the Equibase Speed Figure - 97 - of his last effort. He has been running soundly and the speed figures are among the top in this group. FREDDIES DREAM - He has been running solidly recently while recording sharp Equibase Speed Figures. With a strong 82 Equibase Speed Figure last time out, will clearly be a factor in this contest. SOUTH TEXAS LINGO - He has a good opportunity in this race as handler, Cerin, has solid win clip with horses going this distance. Has been running soundly lately and ought to be on or close to the front end early on.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Sunland Park

Sunland Park - Race 2

2nd Half Daily Double $1 Grand Slam(Races 2-3-4-5)/.50 Pick 3(Races 2-3-4) $1 Exacta/Trifecta/.10 Superfecta


Claiming $7,500 • 300 Yards • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 72 • Purse: $12,200 • Post: 12:55
QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR REGISTERED NEW MEXICO BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Not Applicable (Quarter Horse). * KEY ANGLES * NEMOS TREASURE: Quarter Horse has a Fast Break Style designation and no horse in a post position next to it gets out of the gate fast. HEZA WINNING VERSION: Horse ranks in the top three i n average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. DAMSELS CHARMER: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. MAGICAL MUSHROOM: Quarter Horse has a Fast Break Style designation and no horse in a post position next to it g ets out of the gate fast. FIRST LLUVIA RUNAWAY: Quarter horse has the highest last race Equibase Speed Rating.
5
NEMOS TREASURE
10/1

6/1
9
HEZA WINNING VERSION
15/1

6/1
11
DAMSELS CHARMER
8/1

7/1
3
MAGICAL MUSHROOM
4/1

8/1
1
FIRST LLUVIA RUNAWAY
5/1

8/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
1
FIRST LLUVIA RUNAWAY
1

5/1
Slow
75

71

6.6

0.0

0.0
2
BLUE MOON FLASH
2

7/2
Average
76

72

4.8

0.0

0.0
3
MAGICAL MUSHROOM
3

4/1
Fast
76

70

3.0

0.0

0.0
4
MAS RONPOPE
4

8/1
Average
77

68

3.9

0.0

0.0
5
NEMOS TREASURE
5

10/1
Fast
75

72

0.0

0.0

0.0
6
LIL BOOM BOOM
6

12/1
Average
67

61

5.9

0.0

0.0
7
EYE FOUND IT
7

20/1
Average
78

65

5.8

0.0

0.0
8
GO RO SHAM BO
8

6/1
Average
73

68

5.0

0.0

0.0
9
HEZA WINNING VERSION
9

15/1
Average
79

77

5.7

0.0

0.0
10
DD MIRACLE MOUNTAIN
10

8/1
Average
69

61

5.3

0.0

0.0
11
DAMSELS CHARMER
11

8/1
Average
73

78

4.7

0.0

0.0
12
WHATSNOTTALUV
12

15/1
Slow
83

67

6.7

0.0

0.0

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turfway Park - Race #5 - Post: 8:15pm - Maiden Special - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $18,500 Class Rating: 76

Rating: 4

#13 CAT WALK (ML=8/1)
#4 BUTTER UP KATIE (ML=5/1)
#14 BRILLIANT MISSY (ML=5/1)


CAT WALK - This jock and handler have a profitable return on investment when they join forces. BUTTER UP KATIE - Is ranked totally uppermost in EPS (earnings per start). A dominant outing in this event will boost the lifetime total. This steed broke from the outside at Churchill Downs last time out, racing 1 mile, but is getting a low post position in this race, which should help her chances today. BRILLIANT MISSY - Was in a Maiden Special race at Turfway Park last out. That contest had a class rating of 84 and she is moving down in this event. A certain win candidate. Burchell brings her right back. I propose you stay with this strong filly.

Vulnerable Contenders: #11 KAY TWO (ML=3/1), #8 SPICE DROP (ML=9/2), #1 MISS SPOT ON (ML=5/1),

KAY TWO - Hasn't been doing anything at all recently. SPICE DROP - Doesn't appear to have enough good qualities to support the value. MISS SPOT ON - This animal just hasn't looked sharp recently. This animal doesn't have a conquering mental state. Regularly finishes in the place or show hole.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #13 CAT WALK to win if we can get at least 7/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [4,13,14]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [4,13,14] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[4,13,14] with [4,13,14] with [3,4,5,13,14] with [3,4,5,13,14] Total Cost: $36

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp Pick, Friday, December 15, 2017

NBA (801) DETROIT PISTONS VS (802) INDIANA PACERS

Take: (802) INDIANA PACERS

Reason: Your home game for Friday, December 15, 2017 is in the NBA contest between the Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers. Both these clubs saw streaks come to an end their last game. Detroit saw it's seven game losing streak come to an end on Thursday with a win over the Atlanta Hawks, 105-91. The Pistons play in the second of a back-to-back spot here tonight in Indiana. The Pistons are just 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 in this spot. The Pacers saw their four game win streak come to an end on Wednesday at home vs the Thunder, 95-100. The Pacers still a very good home tea, going 9-6 ATS at home. The Pacers are also 10-4 ATS overall their last 14 games. The Pacers are 7-1 ATS their last eight vs the Pistons and 6-0 ATS their last six at Indiana. I'm taking Indiana tonight against the Pistons.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Arthur Ralph Sports

FRI Stanford CBB -11

[Can'tPickAWinner]

TOMMY BRUNSON

Friday NBA comp play is Boston at home over Utah.

The Celtics have been a money-burner to their backers, as they enter this Friday contest at just 1-3-1 against the spread their last 5 games, but they have also seen Irving, Brown and Horford miss time due to their various injuries, etc.

Tonight Boston will get their "A-Game" in gear, as they have been money at home this season winning 13 of 15 on the parquet floor straight up, and they have covered in 10 of those 15 home dates.

Utah enters play tonight riding a 4-game losing skid, and they have failed to cover in their last 3 losses. The Jazz is also on a 3-game series slide to the C's both straight up and against the spread.

Go ahead and lay the lumber with the Boston Celtics tonight at home.

4* BOSTON

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BIG AL

Our complimentary selection for Friday, Dec 15 is:

Milwaukee -8 over Chicago.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

DUSTIN HAWKINS

Free Play on Celtics -5½ -108

[Can'tPickAWinner]

RAY MONOHAN

Los Angeles vs. New York Over 5.5

The Kings and Rangers are worth a flyer on the Over here.

Los Angeles has put in 3.13 goals per game on the road this year, while the Rangers 3.30 at home is one of the best marks in the NHL.

These two offenses just have so many weapons from top to bottom.

The pace of play is another huge thing to note here. These two teams really like to get up and down the ice and push the issue. On top of that, they like to let it fly and put shots on net, really looking for opportunities off the rebound.

Some trends to note. Over is 4-0 in Rangers last 4 vs. Pacific.Over is 5-1 in Rangers last 6 vs. Western Conference.

Expect a ton of back and forth action here, giving this Over some value.

Back Over.

Good Luck, Razor Ray.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Heat vs. Hornets Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Miami Heat coughed up a big lead against a struggling team at home in their loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday. They will try to make amends for the defeat as they continue to pile up the road games with a visit to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.

Miami is nearing the end of a stretch in which it plays 17 of 24 games on the road, but the 102-95 home loss to the Blazers - who had lost five in a row and trailed by 16 points in the second half - will sting for a bit. "These are tough to swallow," guard Wayne Ellington told reporters after the loss. "We played about 43 minutes of Miami Heat basketball. We've got to get better at finishing." The Heat were able to finish just fine in overcoming an early deficit and defeating the Hornets 105-100 earlier this month at home. That result is part of Charlotte's current 2-8 swoon, which includes a 108-96 loss at NBA-best Houston on Wednesday that dropped the squad to 2-11 on the road.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN Sun (Miami), FSN Southeast (Charlotte)

ABOUT THE HEAT (13-14): Hassan Whiteside (knee) has missed seven straight games and coach Erik Spoelstra said Wednesday his star center was not ready to return to practice. Guard Tyler Johnson also missed the game against Portland with a migraine, halting a hot stretch in which he averaged 19.7 points over a three-game span. Ellington led seven players in double figures with a season-high 24 points and he has hit 11-of-16 3-pointers in the last two contests.

ABOUT THE HORNETS (10-17): Charlotte had little chance after falling behind by 15 in the first quarter against the mighty Rockets and there was no great comeback with a 4-for-21 showing from 3-point range. Dwight Howard recorded 26 points and 18 rebounds and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist added 18 and 11, while the Hornets' bench - at times a liability this season - had seven players combine for 26 points on 9-of-24 shooting. "All the things we were doing in the first part of the first quarter, [the second unit] didn't do [when we broke the lineup]," associate head coach Stephen Silas told reporters. "We were doing a good job of moving the ball, not getting turnovers, closing out to their 3-point shooters, getting back in transition, getting our defense set and they blitzed us."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Heat SF Josh Richardson led all scorers with a career-high 27 points in the earlier win over the Hornets.

2. Charlotte PG Kemba Walker missed the first meeting with a shoulder injury but averaged 24.3 points in four games against Miami last season.

3. Hornets C Cody Zeller is out for about six weeks following surgery Tuesday to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee.

PREDICTION: Hornets 103, Heat 101

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Thunder vs. 76ers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Philadelphia 76ers snapped a four-game slide with a win at the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday while pushing their young stars harder than ever. The 76ers will try to avoid heavy minutes for the likes of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday.

Embiid logged a career-high 39 minutes in the 118-112 overtime win at Minnesota after missing the previous two games with a back injury and collected 28 points, 12 rebounds and a career-high eight assists in the victory. "We needed this," Embiid told reporters after the win. "We lost four games, so we need this pretty bad. I was excited to come back. My goal is always to bring a lot of energy, obviously use my skill, but at the end of the day, just playing hard." Few players play harder than Oklahoma City's Russell Westbrook, who struggled through a terrible shooting night on Wednesday but still managed to record a triple-double and lead his team to a 100-95 win at Indiana. The reigning MVP went for 10 points on 3-of-17 shooting, 17 rebounds and 12 assists to record his 35th triple-double of 2017, the most ever in a calendar year.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS Oklahoma

ABOUT THE THUNDER (13-14): Westbrook wasn't the only Oklahoma City star struggling from the field on Wednesday as Paul George and Carmelo Anthony combined to go 7-of-28 from the floor. "I think we're just not used to (open shots), maybe," Anthony told ESPN.com. "The way we get the shots, the way we get the ball, none of us are used to having it in that position, having it in certain spots on the court. Maybe being that wide open sometimes. But I don't know, we've still gotta make shots." The Thunder continue to get solid efforts from center Steven Adams, who scored a team-high 23 points on 11-of-16 shooting and is averaging 19 points on 71.3 percent shooting in seven games this month.

ABOUT THE 76ERS (14-13): Embiid isn't the only Philadelphia youngster carrying a heavy load for the team, and Simmons paces the team in minutes (36.2) while offering 17.5 points, 8.9 rebounds and 7.7 assists. "He's handled this season with an incredible amount of poise, given that he's never really played the position, or never played in the NBA," coach Brett Brown told reporters of Simmons, according to the team's website. "There are times when I'm coaching him, he really doesn't give the impression he's fatiguing." Simmons logged at least 36 minutes in each of the last eight games and went for 40 or more four times during that span.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. 76ers SF Robert Covington (back contusion) sat out each of the last two games and is day-to-day.

2. Thunder SG Alex Abrines is 12-of-21 from 3-point range in the last three games.

3. Westbrook averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds and 11.5 assists in two wins over Philadelphia last season.

PREDICTION: 76ers 105, Thunder 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Clippers vs. Wizards Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

Just when the Washington Wizards were starting to slip a little, All-Star point guard John Wall returned to help them back into the win column. The Wizards will try to put together back-to-back wins with Wall in the lineup when they host the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday.

Wall watched Washington go 4-5 in nine games while he sat nursing a knee injury, including a 113-112 loss at the Clippers on Sunday, but he played 28 minutes and scored 13 points in a 93-87 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday. "If I'm going to be out here thinking about it, then I don't need to be out there playing," Wall told reporters. "Because I'm limiting what I can do, and thinking about that too much is hurting my teammates. So, I just go out there and play basketball and try not to think about it at all." The Clippers know what it's like to deal with injuries and were just hit with another when guard Austin Rivers was diagnosed with a concussion. Los Angeles is already without starters Patrick Beverley (knee), Blake Griffin (knee) and Danilo Gallinari (hip).

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FS Prime Ticket (Los Angeles), NBCS Washington

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (11-15): Los Angeles dropped four in a row after watching Griffin go down but has since won three straight, including a 106-95 triumph at Orlando on Wednesday that kicked off a four-game road trip. The Clippers are searching for production wherever they can find it and got it off the bench on Wednesday from veteran guard Lou Williams, who poured in 31 points on 11-of-22 shooting while adding eight assists in 33 minutes. Williams is a candidate to slide into the latest open spot in the starting lineup while Rivers makes his way through a concussion protocol.

ABOUT THE WIZARDS (15-13): Washington shooting guard Bradley Beal averaged 23.8 points - right at his season mark - with Wall sidelined but was beginning to struggle with his shot as defenses swarmed him and went 19-of-54 from the floor in back-to-back losses prior to Wednesday. The pressure came off a bit with Wall back in the lineup and Beal knocked down 3-of-5 from 3-point range en route to 18 points in the win over Memphis. The Wizards are still not at 100 percent as starting power forward Markieff Morris was forced to sit out Wednesday and is day-to-day with a right hip injury.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Clippers PG Milos Teodosic is 6-of-21 from the floor in two games since returning from a plantar fasciitis injury that cost him 22 games.

2. Wizards C Marcin Gortat scored 12 points on Wednesday, snapping a string of five straight games in single digits.

3. Williams totaled 35 points and buried the game-winning 3-pointer in Los Angeles' 113-112 victory over Washington on Saturday.

PREDICTION: Wizards 110, Clippers 102

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trail Blazers vs. Magic Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats07:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Portland Trail Blazers earned a much-needed victory last time out and look to build on that performance when they visit the injury-ravaged Orlando Magic on Friday night. Portland had dropped five in a row before rallying for a 102-95 victory at Miami on Wednesday as it placed five players in double figures, led by guard CJ McCollum's 28 points.

"CJ can go out there and have a huge game, I can go out there and have a huge game and (we can) go steal one from somebody," Trail Blazers leading scorer Damian Lillard told reporters. "And then you can have it done by committee with everybody pitching in and guys doing things that you need them to do to be successful. That's the way that you prefer to have it and I think that's how we got it (Wednesday)." The Magic would like to have their entire roster available to do the same, but their top two scorers Evan Fournier (ankle, out) and Aaron Gordon (concussion, questionable) have missed the last three and two games, respectively. Orlando has dropped three straight, including Wednesday's 106-95 setback against the Los Angeles Clippers as the Magic coughed up an early double-digit lead. "It's not easy, but it's part of the job we do," Orlando center Nikola Vucevic told reporters. ". ... Things happen like that. Unfortunately, we have a big amount of guys (hurt) that have huge roles on our team."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NBCSN Northwest (Portland), FSN Florida (Orlando)

ABOUT TRAIL BLAZERS (14-13): Portland entered Thursday fifth in the league in points allowed per game (101.3) and sixth in field goal percentage against (44.8) and outscored Miami 32-16 in the fourth quarter Wednesday. "We turned it up in the fourth quarter," Portland forward Ed Davis told reporters after scoring double figures for the third time this season (11). "We got it done on the defensive end. ... We took care of business." Lillard (26.3 points, 6.1 assists) scored 18 against Miami after recording at least 29 in the first four contests this month and McCollum (21.3) is averaging 25.7 over the last three.

ABOUT MAGIC (11-18): Gordon (18.5 points) and Fournier (18.3) take a big chunk of the offense away and small forward Jonathon Simmons has tried to make up for some of that by averaging 23.3 the last three games. Vucevic (17.2 points, 9.3 rebounds overall) boasts three double-doubles and a triple-double in the past four games and former first-round pick Mario Hezonja scored a season-high 17 against the Clippers. Rookie forward Jonathan Isaac (ankle) has missed 16 straight games while veteran guard Arron Afflalo sat out Wednesday's contest with a sore back, and both are questionable.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Orlando rookie SF Wesley Iwundu made his first career start Wednesday and played a season-high 33 minutes with six points.

2. Portland C Jusuf Nurkic, who is averaging 15.1 points and 7.8 rebounds, is questionable after missing three games with an ankle injury.

3. The Trail Blazers have won three of the last four meetings, including a 99-94 triumph on Nov. 15 in which Lillard and McCollum combined for 50 points.

PREDICTION: Magic 105, Trail Blazers 101

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pistons vs. Pacers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/15/2017

The Detroit Pistons halted a season-worst seven-game losing streak and now look to defeat a nemesis when they visit the Indiana Pacers on Friday. Detroit has dropped nine of its last 10 overall meetings with the Pacers, including five straight in Indianapolis.

The Pistons recorded their first victory in eight contests this month when they posted a 105-91 triumph in Atlanta on Thursday. "I think it's really important for us," Detroit guard Avery Bradley told reporters after the victory. "It's a step closer to what we're trying to achieve, and that's getting consistent wins and playing the right way. I'm happy with the way we played. We just have to keep it up." Indiana is 4-1 on its six-game homestand, with the loss occurring on Wednesday as Oklahoma City came to town and left with a 100-95 victory. There was plenty of hoopla surrounding the contest with former Pacers star Paul George returning to town, and it remains to be seen how Indiana will bounce back.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN Detroit Plus, FSN Indiana

ABOUT THE PISTONS (15-13): Detroit's slide sabotaged its strong 14-6 start, but the victory over the Hawks was good for the team's confidence level, as well as its victory total. "When you're coming off of seven losses, it's tough," guard Langston Galloway told reporters. "You're trying to find your rhythm, find anything you can salvage. When we finally got our rhythm and made stops, we just continued to make that a bulldozer effect." Center Andre Drummond, who is averaging 15.5 rebounds over his last eight games, contributed 12 points, 19 boards and a career-best eight assists against Atlanta.

ABOUT THE PACERS (16-12): Shooting guard Victor Oladipo, who was acquired in the deal for George, struggled against his former squad as he hit just 9-of-26 shots while scoring 19 points. The shaky effort followed a five-game stretch during which the emerging star recorded totals of 47, 36 and 33 points. Oladipo, who is averaging a career-best 24.3 points, scored 21 in each of this season's two previous meetings with the Pistons but was just 14-for-40 from the field.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The teams split the two previous meetings this season, with the home team winning on each occasion.

2. Indiana C Myles Turner scored nine points on 3-of-11 shooting against Oklahoma City after reaching double figures in each of his previous eight games.

3. Detroit F Anthony Tolliver (broken nose) played with a mask on Thursday and scored six points in 15 minutes off the bench.

PREDICTION: Pacers 107, Pistons 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jazz vs. Celtics Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

Kyrie Irving appears no worse for wear from a quadriceps injury that caused him to miss a game earlier in the week and he will try to lead the Boston Celtics to their sixth straight home win when they host the struggling Utah Jazz on Friday. Irving sat out Monday's 108-85 loss at Chicago, watching his team put forth its worst offensive effort of the season, but he hit the ground running with 33 points in Wednesday's 124-118 win over Denver.

"We had to be resilient practically the whole night, and kind of weather their storms," Irving told reporters after Boston followed up its season low in points at the Bulls with a season high. "They kept coming and kept coming. We had to outscore them at some point." Points have been tough to come by for the Jazz, who are averaging 98.8 during a four-game losing streak and also fell at Chicago on Wednesday, despite a big game from rookie Donovan Mitchell and the return of leading scorer Rodney Hood. Mitchell provided 32 points on 15-of-26 shooting after going 4-of-17 from the floor Saturday at Milwaukee, while Hood added 15 off the bench after missing the previous seven games with an ankle injury. "We can't do it in spurts," Hood told the media. "If we can't sustain it over 48 minutes, we're not going to win."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain (Utah), NBCSN Boston

ABOUT THE JAZZ (13-15): Although the Bulls have suddenly won four straight, they offered one of the few games this month in which Utah would be the favored squad, as it finishes its six-game road trip with visits to Boston, Cleveland, Houston and Oklahoma City, and also plays San Antonio and Golden State before December ends. "This was a game we had to have," Hood said in Chicago. "It's frustrating when you play well enough to win, and then you don't get it." Center Rudy Gobert had six points and has been held to single digits in four of five games since returning from a leg injury.

ABOUT THE CELTICS (24-6): Boston should have Al Horford back for this one after he was given some rest against Denver, but fellow forward Marcus Morris is expected to miss extended time with a knee issue. Center Aron Baynes received his eighth straight start Wednesday and responded with 17 points on 8-of-11 shooting in a season-high 28 minutes. Guard Jaylen Brown, who shed the protective goggles he wore the previous three games, scored 26 points and is shooting 44.8 percent from the arc at home.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Celtics SF Gordon Hayward, who starred for the Jazz for seven seasons and likely had this date circled on his calendar before the season, is no longer in a walking boot from his ankle surgery in October.

2. Mitchell is averaging 27.2 points in December.

3. The Celtics have won eight straight meetings at home.

PREDICTION: Celtics 107, Jazz 98

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Nets vs. Raptors Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/15/2017

The Toronto Raptors are a stellar 9-1 at home this season, and that mark figures to improve when they host the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. Toronto has recorded eight consecutive wins over the Nets by an average of 11.3 points and hasn't lost in the all-time series since April 3, 2015.

The Raptors have won seven of their last eight overall games and have matched the second-best start in franchise history at 18-8. Star shooting guard DeMar DeRozan matched his season high of 37 points in Wednesday's 115-109 victory at Phoenix and is averaging 25.9 over his last seven games. Brooklyn dropped a 111-104 decision to the New York Knicks on Thursday as it made just 12-of-42 3-point attempts, with the 28.6 percentage marking the fourth straight game in which the team shot below 30 percent from beyond the arc. "Just the ball not going in for us right now," Brooklyn swingman Allen Crabbe told reporters. "Just one of those stretches. We will be better, though. That is the good thing about the league, you get another (game) next day."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, YES (Brooklyn), TSN (Toronto)

ABOUT THE NETS (11-16): Point guard Spencer Dinwiddie scored a career-best 26 points in the loss to the Knicks and continues to take advantage of the opportunity that arose after starter D'Angelo Russell suffered a knee injury. Dinwiddie, who also had seven rebounds and seven assists in the setback, is averaging 15.4 points since becoming a starter and bounced back from a 4-for-14 showing (1-for-11 from 3-point range) in Tuesday's win over Washington. "I was just fortunate to hit shots," Dinwiddie told reporters. "Last game, I couldn't hit the side of a barn, so today they went in and looked like a better game. That's really it."

ABOUT THE RAPTORS (18-8): Center Jonas Valanciunas contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds in the victory over Phoenix and is averaging 21.5 (on 15-of-22 shooting) and 13 over his last two games. The splurge increases the 7-footer's season averages to 11 points and 7.7 rebounds, and Valanciunas is hoping to build on the success. "I'm learning. I'm still learning. There's a lot of things to learn ahead of me," he told reporters. "I've been working a lot. I've been shooting a lot. Now I've just got to find the spacing where I can space out on the 3 and shoot it."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. DeRozan has recorded 86 career 30-point performances, second in Raptors history behind Vince Carter (91).

2. Brooklyn F Rondae Hollis-Jefferson scored a career-best 25 points against the Knicks and is averaging 18.4 over his last five contests.

3. Toronto PF Serge Ibaka matched his season best of 21 points and collected a season-high 13 rebounds on Wednesday.

PREDICTION: Raptors 119, Nets 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bulls vs. Bucks Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

He probably won't garner MVP consideration anytime soon, but it's hard to argue with the impact forward Nikola Mirotic has had on the Chicago Bulls. The suddenly resurgent Bulls aim for their fifth straight win since Mirotic returned to the lineup when they visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday.

Mirotic has produced six, 19, 24 and 29 points - in that order - in his four games since coming back from facial fractures as Chicago - the last-place team in the Eastern Conference for much of the season - has put together the East's longest current winning streak. "We are enjoying playing the basketball together," Mirotic told reporters after a 103-100 victory over Utah on Wednesday. "You can see good chemistry. The guys on the bench, they are all yelling, they've been happy. So I think after (what) we all get through, this team deserves it." The Bucks were streaking as well until a visit to New Orleans on Wednesday, which resulted in a 115-108 loss. Milwaukee has won four in a row at home and also hosts the Bulls on Dec. 26.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, NBCSN Chicago, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee)

ABOUT THE BULLS (7-20): Point guard Kris Dunn capped a 13-point effort with a big basket in the waning moments against Utah and he added four steals for a team that is beginning to win the turnover battle more often. They are averaging 11.3 during the winning streak while forcing an average of 14, with Dunn and backup Jerian Grant making big strides in that department. Dunn has 7.3 assists and 2.3 turnovers per game in December after registering 4.3 and 3.2, respectively, in November, while Grant has 28 assists against only three turnovers in 81 minutes over his last five games.

ABOUT THE BUCKS (15-11): The Pelicans made 13-of-25 3-pointers in their win over Milwaukee, continuing a theme for the league's worst perimeter defense, which allows an NBA-high 40.2 percent shooting from the arc. "I think they hit threes -- threes have been our killer for the last two years," guard Malcolm Brogdon told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "They made threes down the stretch and we didn't contest them. That hurts and that wins games." Giannis Antetokounmpo tried to keep pace with a 32-point effort, his fourth 30-point game in six tries this month.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Mirotic is shooting 57.1 percent from the floor and 52.2 percent from 3-point range.

2. Bucks SG Tony Snell (knee) missed three straight games and is day-to-day.

3. Antetokounmpo averaged 27.3 points, 9.5 rebouunds and 6.5 assists as Milwaukee took three of four meetings last season.

PREDICTION: Bucks 107, Bulls 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hawks vs. Grizzlies Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats08:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/15/2017

Two of the worst teams in the NBA try to snap losing streaks when the Atlanta Hawks visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday. Atlanta has dropped three straight games and five of its last six, but that pales in comparison to the Grizzlies, who have lost five in a row and 16 of their past 17.

Memphis center Marc Gasol is stunned at this season's collapse and trying not to let his attitude be affected. "In the good times and the tough times, you have to be consistent with who you are and what you stand for," Gasol told the Commercial Appeal. "It's not ideal, it's not what you want, but it's my responsibility to deal with it. I'm not going to quit. I'm not going to hide. I'm going to stand in front of the team and take as many hits as I must in order to get us right." The Hawks are also going through tougher times than expected as they own the worst record in the NBA. Atlanta's streak of 10 consecutive playoff appearances is in serious jeopardy as its struggles continued with Thursday's 105-91 loss to a Detroit squad that had dropped seven in a row.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, FSN Southeast (Atlanta, Memphis)

ABOUT THE HAWKS (6-22): Promising rookie forward John Collins (shoulder) returned from a six-game absence and recorded 15 points and seven rebounds in 20 minutes against Detroit. "For his first game back, I'm really pleased how he played," coach Mike Budenholzer told reporters. "We'll keep ramping him up, but it's great to have him back." Forward Ersan Ilyasova scored 23 points on 10-of-14 shooting against the Pistons for his third 20-point effort in four games.

ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (8-20): Memphis has dealt with offensive issues since losing point guard Mike Conley to an Achilles' tendon injury but was especially poor during the first half of Wednesday's 93-87 loss to Washington. The Grizzlies set season lows for points in the first quarter (12) and first half (29) during the defeat, marking the fourth time they have scored fewer than 90 points in eight contests this month. Shooting guard Andrew Harrison was a bright spot with a season-best 20 points on 6-of-9 shooting and is averaging 18 on 11-of-15 shooting over his last two games.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Hawks have won each of their last three visits to Memphis.

2. Grizzlies G Tyreke Evans (hip) is questionable after being scratched from the lineup prior to Thursday's game.

3. Atlanta C Dewayne Dedmon (leg) is expected to miss his ninth straight contest.

PREDICTION: Grizzlies 88, Hawks 87

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pelicans vs. Nuggets Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats09:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Denver Nuggets struggled at times through a challenging six-game road trip without star center Nikola Jokic. They return home Friday night to host the New Orleans Pelicans with Jokic - who has missed seven straight games with an ankle injury - nearing a return.

Jokic was medically cleared to play but did not see any action in Wednesday's 124-118 loss at Boston, which gave Denver a 2-4 mark on the trip and a 5-11 road record overall. "I didn't think he was ready," coach Michael Malone told reporters of Jokic. "(The medical staff) might say he's ready. But for myself and talking with him, it's not just, 'Is the ankle ready?' It's, 'Is his head ready?' I didn't think he was ready to play tonight. I wanted to protect him, so I made that decision." One of the Nuggets' four losses on the trip came Dec. 6 at New Orleans, which exchanged wins and losses in a string of high-scoring games this month. DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis combined for 51 points, 23 rebounds, nine assists and five blocks in a 115-108 victory over Milwaukee on Wednesday.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, FSN New Orleans, Altitude (Denver)

ABOUT THE PELICANS (15-14): Cousins and Davis both shot 10-for-16 against the Bucks while E'Twaun Moore continued his sizzling pace with an 8-for-11 effort, including 4-of-6 3-pointers. "His confidence is very high," Davis - who returned from a one-game absence due to an adductor strain - told reporters. "He's playing at an elite level. He's shooting the ball from 3, mid-range, getting to the line, layups. He's playing well defensively." Including his career-high 36-point performance at Houston on Monday, Moore is shooting 63.3 percent in December while making 29-of-43 3-pointers.

ABOUT THE NUGGETS (15-13): While Jokic's absence - as well as that of forward Paul Millsap (wrist) - leaves a hole along the front line, Denver's backcourt continues to shine. Gary Harris scored a career-high 36 points at Boston and fellow starting guard Jamal Murray had his second straight 28-point effort. Will Barton, another guard who had been heating up of late, was held out of Wednesday's loss due to a back issue but he was probable heading into the game.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Murray scored 31 points and Harris added 22 in a 146-114 rout of the Pelicans on Nov. 17.

2. Cousins entered Thursday ranked sixth in scoring (26.1), third in rebounding (12.5), tied for first in double-doubles (22) and first in turnovers per game (5.1).

3. Denver C Mason Plumlee is making 66.7 percent of his shots in six starts, compared to 54.1 in 22 games as a reserve.

PREDICTION: Nuggets 115, Pelicans 113

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Spurs vs. Rockets Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

Kawhi Leonard's return did not get the San Antonio Spurs into the win column, but both he and the organization are looking at the bigger picture. The Houston Rockets, who host Leonard and the Spurs on Friday, can't seem to find their way out of the win column and will be trying to push their latest streak to 12 straight.

Leonard sat out the first 27 games while recovering from quad tendinopathy and scored 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting over 16 minutes in his debut on Tuesday. "I thought he was wonderful," San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich told reporters of Leonard. "He's trying to get some of the rust off and that kind of thing. Obviously, he's confident. He's a heck of a player, and it was really frustrating for him to just start getting loose and have to come off the court." The Rockets have yet to lose since Chris Paul returned from a knee injury and watched the future Hall of Famer take charge while posting 31 points and 11 assists in a 108-96 win over Charlotte on Wednesday. "It's all about building," Paul told reporters. "You can win however many games you want in a row. It means nothing if you're not playing the right way, but we're playing the right way and still trying to get better."

TV: 9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, KENS (San Antonio), AT&T SportsNet-Southwest (Houston)

ABOUT THE SPURS (19-9): Leonard came off the court before the end of the third quarter on Tuesday and never reentered the game as San Antonio was outscored 28-20 in the fourth and suffered a 95-89 loss at Dallas. "I'm just happy to be able to be out there, just to play the game and enjoy the things I missed -- missing shots, losing game, making mistakes -- just everything," Leonard told reporters. "I understand the situation that I'm in, and we're thinking about down the road." Leonard was an MVP candidate and first-team all-defensive performer while averaging a career-high 25.5 points and shooting 48.5 percent from the floor last season.

ABOUT THE ROCKETS (22-4): Houston is not only scoring at will with Paul in the lineup but continues to improve on the defensive end and held the Hornets to 41.4 percent from the floor on Wednesday, including 4-of-21 from 3-point range. Paul, who has been an All-Defensive first-teamer in each of the last six years and seven times in his career, is averaging 2.1 steals in his 12 games with the team -- all wins. "I don't ever go into a game expecting to lose," Paul told reporters. "I think we're just playing with the right pace, the right tempo, the right energy. It's fun."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Spurs C Pau Gasol went scoreless on 0-of-2 shooting in 22 minutes on Tuesday.

2. Rockets PF Ryan Anderson is 2-of-11 from 3-point range over the last three games.

3. The teams are meeting for the first time since the San Antonio knocked off Houston in six games in the Western Conference semifinals last spring.

PREDICTION: Rockets 113, Spurs 102

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hurricanes vs. Sabres Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Carolina Hurricanes assured themselves at least one victory on a disappointing road trip last time out and look to end it with a pair when they visit the Buffalo Sabres on Friday. The Hurricanes lost the first four contests of their six-game trek - two in overtime - before grinding out a 3-2 shootout victory at Vegas on Tuesday as Cam Ward registered his 300th career win.

Carolina hopes the victory releases some tension, but it still plays three of its next four on the road, including testing matchups with Toronto and Nashville, as it tries to climb out of the cellar in the Metropolitan Division. Carolina attempts to extend its winning streak over the Sabres to five games after posting a 3-1 victory on Nov. 18 behind a 24-save performance by Scott Darling, who likely will be back in net on Friday. Buffalo saw its four-game point streak (2-0-2) come to an end with a 2-1 loss at Philadelphia on Thursday in which it registered only 20 shots and is just 2-4-1 in the second contest of back-to-back sets this season. Ryan O'Reilly scored the lone goal for the Sabres in the loss and has recorded five points in his last five games for lowest-scoring team in the league (2.13).

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN Carolinas, MSG (Buffalo)

ABOUT THE HURRICANES (12-11-7): Marcus Kruger, who notched two assists in the previous meeting with Buffalo, scored one of the two goals against Vegas and defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk had the other to give him four points in his last three games. Teuvo Teravainen leads the team with 24 points while Jeff Skinner (club-best 11 goals) and Sebastian Aho have recorded 21 apiece. Jordan Staal got off to a strong start with 16 points and a plus-7 rating in his first 21 games but has managed just one point with a minus-7 mark in his last nine contests.

ABOUT THE SABRES (8-18-6): Evander Kane saw his five-game point streak end on Thursday but leads the team with 14 goals and 28 points, while Jack Eichel has recorded 24 after failing to register a shot against Philadelphia. Veteran Jason Pominville scored six goals in October but has managed just two since, with both coming in his last six contests. Buffalo's defensemen have recorded just one goal in the first 32 games (Jake McCabe) after finishing with 17 last season and Rasmus Ristolainen leads the blue-liners with nine points.

OVERTIME

1. The Hurricanes are 28th on the power play (15.3 percent) and the Sabres rank 30th (13.1) after leading the league last season (24.5).

2. Carolina C Victor Rask saw his three-game goal-scoring streak come to an end against Vegas.

3. Kane has recorded 134 shots - 37 more than anyone else on the team.

PREDICTION: Hurricanes 4, Sabres 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Stars vs. Devils Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Dallas Stars attempt to remain perfect on their four-game East Coast road trip when they visit the New Jersey Devils on Friday. Dallas halted a three-game losing streak by opening the trek with back-to-back wins in New York, edging the Rangers 2-1 in a shootout on Monday and topping the Islanders 5-2 two nights later.

Tyler Pitlick scored twice and captain Jamie Benn recorded a goal and two assists to overtake Tyler Seguin for the team lead in points with 29 as the Stars posted their fifth victory in six road games. The Devils return to the Garden State to begin a six-game homestand after dropping a 2-1 overtime decision in Montreal on Thursday. Stefan Noesen scored the lone goal for New Jersey, giving him two tallies and four assists during his five-game point streak. The Devils could be without Taylor Hall for a second straight game as the team's leading scorer sat out the loss to the Canadiens with a right knee contusion.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN Southwest (Dallas), MSG Plus (New Jersey)

ABOUT THE STARS (18-13-1): Backup Kari Lehtonen had a memorable night on Wednesday, recording his 300th career victory while playing in his 624th NHL game to move ahead of Miikka Kiprusoff for most by a Finnish goaltender. "That was fun. It was nice to get (the 300th win) with the first try," the 34-year-old told reporters. "It was a nice feeling." Dallas could be without Alexander Radulov, who left Wednesday's game with a lower-body injury and did not return.

ABOUT THE DEVILS (17-9-5): Nick Lappin was recalled from Binghamton of the American Hockey League on Wednesday and made his season debut against Montreal, registering two shots in 10 minutes of ice time. The 25-year-old right wing recorded four goals and three assists in 43 games last campaign - his first in the NHL. Kyle Palmieri, who hasn't played since Nov. 20 due to a broken right foot, could be close to returning as he participated in the pregame skate on Thursday.

OVERTIME

1. Benn has landed on the scoresheet in six of his last seven games, recording two goals and six assists in that span.

2. New Jersey C Brian Boyle's next goal will be the 100th of his career.

3. Dallas C Martin Hanzal returned from a seven-game absence due to a hamstring injury and saw 13 minutes, 47 seconds of ice time on Wednesday.

PREDICTION: Stars 4, Devils 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Kings vs. Rangers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/15/2017

Marian Gaborik will celebrate a significant milestone in a familiar arena - the "World's Most Famous Arena," in fact. Gaborik will skate in his 1,000th career NHL game against one of his former teams on Friday when he leads the Los Angeles Kings into Madison Square Garden to face the New York Rangers.

Gaborik signed with the Rangers as a free agent prior to the 2009-10 season and promptly matched a career high with 42 goals in that campaign while setting personal bests in assists (44) and points (86). "To play 1,000 games is a great accomplishment, and to do it and get 800 points I think is a great accomplishment, and to his credit, he's a big part of a championship team," Kings coach John Stevens said of Gaborik, who has 400 goals and as many assists. While Los Angeles saw its eight-game winning streak come to a halt with a 5-1 setback in New Jersey on Tuesday, New York fell for the third time in four contests with a 3-2 loss at Ottawa the following day. The Rangers look to get back on track versus the Kings, against whom they swept the season series in 2016-17 and own a 7-3-3 mark in the last 13 games overall.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NHL Network, Sportsnet, TVAS, FSN West (Los Angeles), MSG (New York)

ABOUT THE KINGS (20-9-3): Jonathan Quick's six-game winning streak ended with a thud as the 2012 Conn Smythe Trophy recipient allowed five goals, marking just the fourth time all season that he permitted more than three in a contest. Quick aims to bounce back in what is nearly a home game for the Connecticut native, who expects to have friends and family in attendance. Captain Anze Kopitar has made himself at home this season with team-leading totals in goals (16), assists (22) and points (38), although he was held off the scoresheet versus the Devils after posting four straight multi-point performances.

ABOUT THE RANGERS (16-12-3): Mats Zuccarello increased his team-leading totals in assists (18) and points (25) by setting up Michael Grabner's club-best 15th goal early in the second period on Wednesday. The 30-year-old Norwegian has caught his stride with 17 points (five goals, 12 assists, plus-12 rating) in his last 19 games and enters Friday's tilt with optimism after scoring a goal and set up two others versus the Kings last season. Speaking of Grabner, the 30-year-old Austrian set a single-game career high with four points (two goals, two assists) against Los Angeles on Dec. 19, 2015.

OVERTIME

1. New York LW Chris Kreider has registered nine points (five goals, four assists) in the last 11 games and is one goal shy of 100 for his career.

2. Los Angeles' top-ranked penalty kill has been pierced for a power-play goal in each of its last three contests.

3. Rangers LW Pavel Buchnevich has collected 19 points (10 goals, nine assists) in the last 22 contests.

PREDICTION: Rangers 3, Kings 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Maple Leafs vs. Red Wings Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

The Toronto Maple Leafs hope to rebound from being shut out for the first time this campaign and avoid a season high-tying three-game losing streak when they visit the struggling Detroit Red Wings on Friday. The Maple Leafs, who are seventh in the league in scoring (3.21 goals), suffered a 2-0 loss at Minnesota on Thursday and have scored just three goals in their last three games.

One of the reasons for Toronto's offensive struggles is the absence of leading scorer Auston Matthews (26 points), who has missed the last three contests with an upper-body injury and is questionable for Friday. The Red Wings have been earning points of late but have managed just one victory over their last 11 games (1-5-5) after coughing up a late lead and dropping a 3-2 overtime decision to Boston on Wednesday. Dylan Larkin snapped his 10-game goal-scoring drought last time out, but Detroit lost for the sixth straight time after regulation. "We have been doing a lot of really good things," Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader told the Detroit Free Press. "We are right there. We just have to find a way, whether it's score that extra goal or keep that extra goal out of our net, and win these games and go on a run."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, TSN4 (Toronto), FSN Detroit

ABOUT THE MAPLE LEAFS (20-12-1): Second-leading scorer Nazem Kadri is mired in a six-game point drought despite registering 20 shots in that span, while William Nylander has managed just one in his last six contests. James van Riemsdyk was kept off the scoresheet Thursday but has recorded three goals in his last six games and leads the team with 15 - two more than Kadri and Matthews. The power play has struggled of late, converting just once in 14 attempts over the last six contests after registering only four shots while going 0-for-4 against Minnesota.

ABOUT THE RED WINGS (11-13-7): Larkin leads the team with 24 points (19 assists) and Anthony Mantha (team-best 12 goals) is next with 22, but he has been kept off the scoresheet in five straight games. Defenseman Mike Green had a fast start to the season with 11 points in the first nine games but has been limited to seven in the last 22 and has managed just one in his last 12 contests. Detroit is just 1-for-16 on the power play in five games this month but still was in the top 10 in the league entering Thursday (20.4 percent) despite being near the bottom in overall scoring at 2.61 goals per game.

OVERTIME

1. The Maple Leafs have won five straight in the all-time series between the Original Six rivals, including a 6-3 triumph at home on Oct. 18.

2. Toronto C Patrick Marleau has scored 519 career goals and trails Pat Verbeek by three for 36th place on the all-time list.

3. Five of Detroit LW Tomas Tatar's nine goals have come on the power play, including one on Wednesday.

PREDICTION: Maple Leafs 5, Red Wings 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sharks vs. Canucks Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/15/2017

The Vancouver Canucks hope to have an edge Friday as they continue their four-game homestand against the San Jose Sharks, who will be playing for the second time in two nights. Vancouver would welcome any advantage as it is in the midst of a four-game losing streak during which it has scored a total of five goals.

Alexander Burmistrov scored in Wednesday's 7-1 loss to Nashville while captain Henrik Sedin reached a milestone in the opener of the homestand, recording his 800th career assist. San Jose is riding a four-game point streak (3-0-1) after beginning its three-game trek through Western Canada on Thursday with a 3-2 triumph in Calgary. Joonas Donskoi, who had missed the previous six games with a lower-body injury, snapped a tie with 2:48 remaining in the third period to complete his fourth two-point performance of the season as the Sharks avoided a third straight road loss. Martin Jones received the night off but will be in net against the Canucks as the North Vancouver, British Columbia, native seeks his 100th career victory

TV: 10 p.m. ET, NBCSN California (San Jose), Sportsnet Pacific (Vancouver)

ABOUT THE SHARKS (17-10-3): Joe Thornton helped set up Donskoi's winning tally against the Flames, giving him a goal and five assists during his four-game point streak. The 38-year-old former Hart Trophy winner is two points away from passing Doug Gilmour (1,414) for 18th place on the all-time list and also figures to move ahead of Adam Oates (1,420) and Bryan Trottier (1,425) this season. Defenseman Justin Braun also notched an assist on Donskoi's goal, giving him 100 for his career.

ABOUT THE CANUCKS (14-14-4): Defenseman Chris Tanev's status is unknown after suffering an apparent leg injury in Wednesday's defeat. As a precaution, Vancouver recalled 23-year-old blue-liner Ashton Sautner from Utica of the American Hockey League, where he has recorded one goal, two assists and a plus-2 rating in 21 games. The 37-year-old Sedin became the first Canuck, second Swedish-born player and 31st overall member of the NHL to register 800 assists.

OVERTIME

1. Sharks D Brent Burns was kept off the scoresheet Thursday, ending his streak of three straight two-point performances.

2. Each of Vancouver D Derrick Pouliot's four career goals have been game-winners, making him the only player in NHL history with a minimum of four tallies to have that distinction.

3. San Jose RW Timo Meier, who recorded three goals and three assists in 34 games as a rookie last season, has four of each in 29 contests this campaign after netting a tally and setting up another Thursday.

PREDICTION: Sharks 4, Canucks 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Maryland Eastern Shore vs. Creighton Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

Creighton's explosive offense was anything but in its last time out, but Marcus Foster bailed out his struggling teammates with a second half to remember in a grind-it-out slugfest like the ones it is sure to see in the Big East beginning later in December. The 25th-ranked Bluejays look to get back to their high-scoring ways at home Friday when they host struggling Maryland-Eastern Shore.

"Three weeks ago when we were in Kansas City, we couldn't grind that game out (a 65-59 loss to Baylor). ... This week we figured out how to grind it out. It's just that time of the year where you're trying to get better because conference play is coming up," Foster said after scoring 17 of his 19 points in the second half in Saturday's 75-65 win against Nebraska. The Big East's top returning scorer tallied 10 of his team's last 18 points, including a long 3-pointer with 43 seconds left to give Creighton a six-point edge. "We won a grind-it-out game and they slowed down the pace, which we're going to see some. We have to be able to adjust. We won a quarter-court game, which you don't do often," Bluejays coach Greg McDermott said. The eighth-highest scoring team in college basketball doesn't figure to struggle for offense nearly as much against the Hawks, who rank 321st in Division I in scoring defense (81.8 points) and have dropped each of their seven true road contests by an average of 38 points.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1

ABOUT MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE (3-8): In addition to their leaky defense, the Hawks also average only 57.9 points (fourth-worst in Division I) on 36.7 percent shooting from the field (fourth-worst) and 26.5 percent beyond the arc (seventh-worst). UMES was forced to play in Sunday's 93-40 setback at Virginia Tech without injured forward Colen Gaynor (6.0 points, 4.3 rebounds per game), but fellow freshman Cameron Bacote (8.3 points) took advantage of a spot start with 12 points -- his best effort since tallying 28 and 18 in his first two games, respectively. Freshman forward Miryne Thomas (11.3 points, 5.4 boards) and sophomore forward Tyler Jones (10.8, 5.5) are the only Hawks averaging at least 10 points, although sophomore Ahmad Frost (9.8) and senior Logan McIntosh (9.5) aren't too far off.

ABOUT CREIGHTON (7-2): Foster (team-high 19 points per game) has reached double figures in 27 consecutive contests -- the 12th-longest active streak in Division I -- and his 1,684 career points ranks fifth among all active Division I players. Martin Krampelj (12.6 points, 8.1 rebounds) has posted double-doubles in consecutive outings after failing to record one over the first 43 games of his career; the 6-10 sophomore also has reached double figures in scoring in five straight contests and seven times this season after doing so only three times previously. Mitch Ballock (8.7 points) was named Big East Freshman of the Week for the second time this season Monday as the Kansas native produced 13 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals in 31 minutes off the bench Saturday.

TIP-INS

1. Even after Saturday's 75-point effort, Creighton is still averaging 98 points in its five home games (all wins).

2. UMES has been held below 50 points five times.

3. Saturday marked the first time the Bluejays trailed at halftime all season.

PREDICTION: Creighton 105, Maryland-Eastern Shore 62

[Can'tPickAWinner]

South Dakota State vs. Colorado Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

After a 6-0 start, Colorado has hit a rough patch, losing three of its last four games, including back-to-back double-digit defeats to Xavier (96-69) and San Diego (69-59). The Buffaloes will try to get back on track Friday night when they host standout Mike Daum and South Dakota State in their non-conference home finale.


Losing on the road to the ninth-ranked Musketeers last Saturday is understandable, but more perplexing was Colorado's home loss to the visiting Toreros on Tuesday as the Buffaloes shot a season-low 25.9 percent from the field. It was Colorado's worst field-goal percentage in its own Coors Events Center which opened in 1979. A home game against the dangerous Jackrabbits and a neutral-site contest against Iowa are all that remain for the Buffaloes before they tip off Pac-12 play Dec. 29 at Oregon State. "We have to control the things we can control," Colorado coach Tad Boyle said in his post-game news conference. "We can't control whether the ball goes in, but we can control how we react, our effort, our fight and our competitiveness."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, Pac-12 Network


ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE (9-4): The Jackrabbits have won six of their last eight contests, including road/neutral site wins over Power Five foes Iowa (80-72) and Ole Miss (99-97 in overtime). The 6-9, 250-pound Daum, a 2016-17 Associated Press honorable-mention All-American and Division I's top returning scorer, has picked up where he left off, averaging 20 points and 7.5 rebounds while connecting on a team-high 33 3-pointers in 86 attempts. David Jenkins Jr. (13.8 points) and Reed Tellinghuisen (11.9) also have double-digit scoring averages for South Dakota State, which is putting up 82.4 points per outing.

ABOUT COLORADO (7-3): In a season where the Buffaloes have struggled of late, freshman point guard McKinley Wright hasn't wavered, averaging a team-best 15.3 points and 3.9 assists while scoring in double figures in every outing. Senior swingman George King (14.4 points, team-leading 9.0 rebounds) and guard Namon Wright (11.7 points) also are averaging double figures, but those three are the only Colorado players averaging more than seven points. The Buffaloes are outrebounding the opposition by an average of 6.6 per game but have struggled from 3-point range (31.9 percent) and have 144 turnovers to only 114 assists.


TIP-INS

1. Colorado leads the series 2-0 - with both games in Boulder - but the two teams haven't met since 2005.

2. The Buffaloes are 6-0 when they outrebound the opposition so far this season and 1-3 when they don't.

3. South Dakota State ranks second nationally with 140 made 3-pointers, and the Jackrabbits are 22nd with their 41.1-percent accuracy rate beyond the arc.


PREDICTION: Colorado 76, South Dakota State 73

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Denver vs. Stanford Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/14/2017

Stanford is hoping a much-needed break for final exams is just the remedy for their sluggish start. Losers of five of their last six games, the Cardinal resume their non-conference schedule Friday against visiting Denver, which was picked to finish fifth in the Summit League preseason poll.

Junior forward Reid Travis is averaging 21.7 points and 7.8 rebounds to lead Stanford, which is playing for the first time since falling 76-68 at Long Beach State on Dec. 3. A preseason All-American, Travis scored 18 of his game-high 26 points in the second half and gave the Cardinal a one-point lead with three minutes left before the 49ers took control late. The Cardinal had just seven scholarship players in the loss and continue to struggle without injured players Dorian Pickens and Marcus Sheffield. "The thing that we're all trying to do - players and coaches - is look in the mirror and find out what we can do better," coach Jerod Haase told reporters. "With such a young team and such an injured team and a lack of practice time, I'm discouraged that I'm not putting (us) in the best position every time. So I need to make sure I do better, whether it's press offense or zone defense or whatever."

TV: 10 p.m. ET, Pac-12 Network

ABOUT DENVER (5-6): The Pioneers are looking for a bounce-back effort after committing 18 turnovers and trailing by as many as 28 in Wednesday's 83-63 loss to Northern Colorado. The lone bright spot was the play of junior guard Joe Rosga, who registered 14 points and seven rebounds and became the 35th member of the school's 1,000-point club. The frontcourt is led by 6-10 senior center Daniel Amigo, who averages 16 points and 4.8 boards for a Pioneers team that is turning the ball over 16.8 times per game.

ABOUT STANFORD (4-6): The shorthanded Cardinal hope to have Pickens and Sheffield back from their foot injuries in time for the Pac-12 opener against California on Dec. 30, but Haase wasn't able to say when freshman Kezie Okpala might be cleared academically to return. The limited bench has resulted in extra minutes for several players, including freshman guard Isaac White, who made five 3-pointers and finished with 17 points in the loss to Long Beach State. Senior forward Michael Humphrey is averaging 11.1 points and 8.6 rebounds for the season while shooting 52.2 percent from the field over his last three games.

TIP-INS

1. Stanford holds a 10-2 lead in the all-time series, including a 49-43 win in the last meeting on Dec. 13, 2014.

2. Denver is facing its second Pac-12 opponent of the season after losing 89-62 at Colorado on Nov. 14.

3. Stanford hosts San Francisco on Sunday before visiting No. 12 Kansas on Dec. 21.

PREDICTION: Stanford 72, Denver 59

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Dunkel

Friday, December 15

Dartmouth @ Illinois-Chicago

Game 823-824
December 15, 2017 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Dartmouth
45.447
Illinois-Chicago
50.102
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Illinois-Chicago
by 4 1/2
151
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Illinois-Chicago
by 7 1/2
142 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Dartmouth
(+7 1/2); Over

Cal Davis @ San Francisco

Game 825-826
December 15, 2017 @ 11:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cal Davis
52.317
San Francisco
54.862
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 2 1/2
124
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco
by 6
130
Dunkel Pick:
Cal Davis
(+6); Under

South Dakota St @ Colorado

Game 827-828
December 15, 2017 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
South Dakota St
56.546
Colorado
60.622
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado
by 4
155
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Colorado
by 2 1/2
149
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado
(-2 1/2); Over

Denver @ Stanford

Game 829-830
December 15, 2017 @ 10:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Denver
45.472
Stanford
60.897
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Stanford
by 15 1/2
139
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Stanford
by 11
147
Dunkel Pick:
Stanford
(-11); Under

MD-Eastern Shore @ Creighton

Game 831-832
December 15, 2017 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
MD-Eastern Shore
39.675
Creighton
68.422
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Creighton
by 29
134
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Creighton
by 35 1/2
No Total
Dunkel Pick:
MD-Eastern Shore
(+35 1/2); N/A

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Friday, December 15

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

DARTMOUTH (3 - 4) at IL-CHICAGO (3 - 6) - 12/15/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DARTMOUTH is 158-197 ATS (-58.7 Units) in all games since 1997.
DARTMOUTH is 158-197 ATS (-58.7 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
DARTMOUTH is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 over the last 2 seasons.
DARTMOUTH is 30-50 ATS (-25.0 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 77-53 ATS (+18.7 Units) in December games since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 21-8 ATS (+12.2 Units) in home games when playing with 5 or 6 days rest since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in all games this season.
IL-CHICAGO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
IL-CHICAGO is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 over the last 3 seasons.
IL-CHICAGO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
IL-CHICAGO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in non-conference games this season.

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

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

CAL DAVIS (7 - 2) at SAN FRANCISCO (5 - 3) - 12/15/2017, 11:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAL DAVIS is 4-18 ATS (-15.8 Units) on Friday nights since 1997.
CAL DAVIS is 23-13 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CAL DAVIS is 23-13 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 87-125 ATS (-50.5 Units) after a non-conference game since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 85-124 ATS (-51.4 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 53-77 ATS (-31.7 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.

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

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

S DAKOTA ST (9 - 4) at COLORADO (7 - 3) - 12/15/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
S DAKOTA ST is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 over the last 2 seasons.
S DAKOTA ST is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) after scoring 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-27 ATS (-13.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-27 ATS (-13.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

DENVER (5 - 6) at STANFORD (4 - 6) - 12/15/2017, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 37-57 ATS (-25.7 Units) in road games after a non-conference game since 1997.
DENVER is 38-58 ATS (-25.8 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1997.
STANFORD is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all games this season.
STANFORD is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
STANFORD is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in non-conference games this season.

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

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

MD-EAST SHORE (3 - 8) at CREIGHTON (7 - 2) - 12/15/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CREIGHTON is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points over the last 3 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

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

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Friday, December 15
Dartmouth is 2-4 vs schedule #335; they’re 1-2 vs teams in top 300, losing by 18 to Albany, 13 at Canisius- they beat Loyola, MD by a hoop. Teams are shooting 57% inside the arc against the Big Green. Ill-Chicago lost their last five D-I games; they’re 2-6 vs schedule #195. Flames are turning ball over 22.7% of time, shooting only 29.5% on the arc. UIC is #282 experience team that plays pace #55, Dartmouth is #275 experience team that plays pace #229. Ivy League road underdogs are 8-15 vs spread; Horizon League home favorites are 1-4.

Cal-Davis is 6-2 vs schedule #202; Aggies are 3-2 on road, with win at Washington State- they lost by 9 at Utah Valley, 7 at Washington. Davis is 3-2 vs top 200 teams. San Francisco is 4-3 vs schedule #325; they’re 1-2 vs top 200 teams, with their best win over #192 St Francis PA. Dons are shooting only 29.9% on arc, 44.4% inside arc. Davis is #40 experience team that is playing pace #332. USF is #274 experience team that is playing pace #206. Big West road underdogs are 16-13 vs spread; WCC home favorites are 9-14.

South Dakota State is 6-4 vs schedule #73, with three other non-D-I wins; Jackrabbits are 2-4 vs teams in top 120, with wins over Iowa, Ole Miss- all four of their losses are by 10+ points. South Dakota State is #38 experience team that is shooting 39.7% on arc. Colorado lost three of last four games after a 6-0 start; they lost last game at home to U of San Diego. Buffs are 3298 experience team that is turning ball over 20.3% of the time. Summit League road underdogs are 14-19 vs spread; Pac-12 home favorites are 23-21.

Stanford hasn’t played in 12 days; they’ve lost five of last six games, with only win over Montana by 16. Cardinal is #304 experience team that is turning ball over 22.1% of time- they’re 2-2 vs teams outside top 200, with home loss to Eastern Washington. Denver is 4-6 vs schedule #307; Pioneers #123 experience team that is turning ball over 23.4% of time. Denver is 1-2 vs teams in top 125, losing by 27 at Colorado, 8 at Florida Gulf Coast. Summit League road underdogs are 14-19 vs spread; Pac-12 home favorites are 23-21.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Friday, December 15

Trend Report

TENNESSEE STATE @ NORTH CAROLINA A&T
Tennessee State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Tennessee State is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road

EASTERN KENTUCKY @ CHARLESTON SOUTHERN
Eastern Kentucky is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Eastern Kentucky is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games

ARKANSAS-LITTLE ROCK @ SAM HOUSTON STATE
Arkansas-Little Rock is 2-10 SU in its last 12 games
Arkansas-Little Rock is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road

MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE @ CREIGHTON
Creighton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Creighton is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games

DARTMOUTH @ UIC
Dartmouth is 7-15 SU in its last 22 games
Dartmouth is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
UIC is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

THOMAS @ SAMFORD
Samford is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Samford is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE @ COLORADO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of South Dakota State's last 5 games on the road
South Dakota State is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
Colorado is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
Colorado is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games

DENVER @ STANFORD
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Denver's last 10 games on the road
Denver is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games
Stanford is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Denver
Stanford is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Denver

SIMON FRASER @ IDAHO
Idaho is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Idaho is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games

UC DAVIS @ SAN FRANCISCO
UC Davis is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
San Francisco is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Dunkel

Friday, December 15

Detroit @ Indiana

Game 801-802
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit
121.228
Indiana
122.756
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Indiana
by 1 1/2
214
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indiana
by 4 1/2
207 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
(+4 1/2); Over

Miami @ Charlotte

Game 803-804
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Miami
117.665
Charlotte
118.723
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Charlotte
by 1
199
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Charlotte
by 5 1/2
204 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(+5 1/2); Under

LA Clippers @ Washington

Game 808-806
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Clippers
113.775
Washington
125.897
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 12
204
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
by 9 1/2
209 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(-9 1/2); Under

Portland @ Orlando

Game 807-808
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Portland
122.367
Orlando
114.769
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Portland
by 7 1/2
216
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Portland
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Portland
N/A

Oklahoma City @ Philadelphia

Game 809-810
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Oklahoma City
119.713
Philadelphia
123.665
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 4
217
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
by 1 1/2
211 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(-1 1/2); Over

Utah @ Boston

Game 811-812
December 15, 2017 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Utah
114.319
Boston
124.523
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Boston
by 10
192
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
by 5 1/2
198 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Boston
(-5 1/2); Under

Brooklyn @ Toronto

Game 813-814
December 15, 2017 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Brooklyn
114.786
Toronto
122.745
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto
by 8
223
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Toronto
by 11
218
Dunkel Pick:
Brooklyn
(+11); Over

Chicago @ Milwaukee

Game 815-816
December 15, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago
115.446
Milwaukee
120.512
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee
by 5
201
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Milwaukee
by 8
206
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago
(+8); Under

Atlanta @ Memphis

Game 817-818
December 15, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta
112.633
Memphis
122.145
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Memphis
by 9 1/2
195
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Memphis
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Memphis
N/A

New Orleans @ Denver

Game 819-820
December 15, 2017 @ 9:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New Orleans
115.319
Denver
122.878
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Denver
by 7 1/2
219
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Denver
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Denver
N/A

San Antonio @ Houston

Game 821-822
December 15, 2017 @ 9:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Antonio
122.324
Houston
126.887
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 4 1/2
219
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
by 8
213 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Antonio
(+8); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, December 15

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

DETROIT (15 - 13) at INDIANA (16 - 12) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 17-36 ATS (-22.6 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game since 1996.
INDIANA is 215-160 ATS (+39.0 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.
INDIANA is 28-13 ATS (+13.7 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 57-38 ATS (+15.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 8-2 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 8-2 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

MIAMI (13 - 14) at CHARLOTTE (10 - 17) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 27-14 ATS (+11.6 Units) on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 29-16 ATS (+11.4 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 21-35 ATS (-17.5 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 9-7 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 9-7 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

LA CLIPPERS (11 - 15) at WASHINGTON (15 - 13) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 45-28 ATS (+14.2 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 57-37 ATS (+16.3 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 395-460 ATS (-111.0 Units) in home games since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 149-193 ATS (-63.3 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA CLIPPERS is 3-2 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
LA CLIPPERS is 4-1 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

PORTLAND (14 - 13) at ORLANDO (11 - 18) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ORLANDO is 2-2 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
PORTLAND is 3-2 straight up against ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

OKLAHOMA CITY (13 - 14) at PHILADELPHIA (14 - 13) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) in the first half of the season this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 26-43 ATS (-21.3 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 65-43 ATS (+17.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 33-20 ATS (+11.0 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 30-13 ATS (+15.7 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 30-15 ATS (+13.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) off an upset win as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 32-19 ATS (+11.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 39-71 ATS (-39.1 Units) in home games in December games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 2-2 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 4-0 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

UTAH (13 - 15) at BOSTON (24 - 6) - 12/15/2017, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 14-26 ATS (-14.6 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) in all games this season.
BOSTON is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) in the first half of the season this season.

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

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

BROOKLYN (11 - 16) at TORONTO (18 - 8) - 12/15/2017, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 25-11 ATS (+12.9 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
BROOKLYN is 9-0 ATS (+9.0 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 6-2 against the spread versus BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 8-0 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

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

CHICAGO (7 - 20) at MILWAUKEE (15 - 11) - 12/15/2017, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 47-70 ATS (-30.0 Units) in road games in December games since 1996.
CHICAGO is 270-324 ATS (-86.4 Units) in the first half of the season since 1996.
CHICAGO is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 393-457 ATS (-109.7 Units) in home games since 1996.

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

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

ATLANTA (6 - 22) at MEMPHIS (8 - 20) - 12/15/2017, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS (15 - 14) at DENVER (15 - 13) - 12/15/2017, 9:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 5-4 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 5-4 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

SAN ANTONIO (19 - 9) at HOUSTON (22 - 4) - 12/15/2017, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 37-23 ATS (+11.7 Units) in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 44-27 ATS (+14.3 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 1018-891 ATS (+37.9 Units) in all games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 26-11 ATS (+13.9 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 57-35 ATS (+18.5 Units) in the first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 209-147 ATS (+47.3 Units) off a upset loss as a favorite since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 8-6 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 10-4 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Friday, December 15

Pacers won seven of last eight games with Detroit; Pistons are 0-5 vs spread in last five visits here. Over is 5-5 in last ten series games. Pistons snapped a 7-game losing streak last nite; they’re 8-4 vs spread as road underdogs- their last eight games all stayed under the total. Indiana won four of its last five games; they’re 5-2 as home favorites. Three of their last four games stayed under total.

Miami won five of its last seven games with the Hornets; they’re 2-3 vs spread in their last five visits to Charlotte. Eight of their last ten games stayed under the total. Miami is 3-5 in its last eight games; they’re 6-4 vs spread as road underdogs. Under is 8-1-1 in their last ten games. Charlotte lost eight of its last ten games; they’re 7-3 as home favorites. Under is 6-3-1 in their last ten games.

Home side won seven of last eight Clipper-Wizard games; LA is 2-3 vs spread in last five trips here. Eight of last ten series games went over the total. Clippers won their last three games, by 1-5-11 points; they’re 3-6 as road underdogs. Over is 5-3 in their last eight games. Washington is 5-6 in its last 11 games; they’re 4-7 as home favorites. Six of their last seven games stayed under total.

Portland won three of last four games with Orlando; they’re 1-4 vs spread in last five visits to the Magic Kingdom. Four of last five series games stayed under. Portland lost five of its last six games; they’re 3-2-1 as road underdogs. Five of their last seven games stayed under total. Orlando lost 14 of its last 17 games; they’re 1-6 as home favorites. Four of their last six games stayed under the total.

Thunder won last 10 games with Philly, but 76ers covered four of last six; OKC is 0-3 vs spread in last three visits here. Under is 8-1 in last nine series games. Thunder won five of their last seven games; they’re 4-11 vs spread on road, 1-0 as road underdogs. Four of their last six games stayed under the total. Philadelphia lost four of its last five games; they’re 6-4 as home favorites. Five of their last seven games stayed under total.

Celtics won eight of their last ten games with Utah; three of last four series games went over total. Jazz is 0-3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Beantown. Utah lost its last four games, by 6-11-17-3 points; they’re 3-5 as road underdogs. Five of their last seven games went over total. Boston won 22 of last 25 games; they’re 8-3-2 vs spread as home favorites. Over is 6-4 in their last ten games.

Raptors won their last eight games with Brooklyn; under is 4-2 in last six series games. Nets are 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Canada. Nets are 5-4 in their last nine games; they covered their last eight games as a road underdog. Five of their last six games stayed under the total. Toronto won seven of its last eight games; they’re 5-5 as home favorites. Five of their last seven games went over the total.

Bucks won three of last four games with Chicago; four of last six series games stayed under the total. Bulls are 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Wisconsin. Chicago won its last four games, covered its last five; they’re 3-6-1 as road underdogs. Three of their last four games went over total. Milwaukee won six of its last eight games; they’re 6-5 as home favorites. Eight of their last ten games went over total.

Hawks won three of last four games with Memphis; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits here. Six of last seven series games stayed under total. Atlanta lost six of its last eight games; they’re 7-2 vs spread in last nine games as a road dog. Four of their last five games went over the total. Memphis lost five in row, 16 of last 17 games; they’re 2-7 as home favorites. Under is 10-4 in their last 14 games.

Pelicans lost three of their last four games with Denver; they’re 2-2 vs spread in their last four games in this building. Over is 7-3 in last ten series games. New Orleans is 4-6 in its last ten games; they’re 5-4 vs spread as road underdogs. their last nine games went over the total. Denver lost four of its last six games; they’re 6-4 as home favorites. Four of their last six games went over.

Spurs won seven of last nine games with Houston; they’re 4-1 vs spread in last five games in this building. Four of last six series games went over the total. San Antonio won eight of tis last ten games; they’re 3-2 as road underdogs. Five of their last seven games stayed under the total. Houston won its last 11 games; they’re 6-6 vs spread as home favorites. Three of their last four games went over total.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Friday, December 15

Trend Report

DETROIT @ INDIANA
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Detroit's last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Detroit's last 11 games on the road
Indiana is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit
Indiana is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit

PORTLAND @ ORLANDO
Portland is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Portland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Orlando is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Portland
Orlando is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Portland

LA CLIPPERS @ WASHINGTON
LA Clippers is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Clippers's last 6 games when playing Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Washington's last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington's last 7 games

OKLAHOMA CITY @ PHILADELPHIA
Oklahoma City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Oklahoma City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games at home

MIAMI @ CHARLOTTE
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Miami's last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Miami's last 9 games when playing on the road against Charlotte
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Charlotte's last 9 games when playing at home against Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Charlotte's last 10 games when playing Miami

UTAH @ BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Utah's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah's last 7 games
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Utah

BROOKLYN @ TORONTO
Brooklyn is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Brooklyn's last 6 games
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Brooklyn

ATLANTA @ MEMPHIS
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing Memphis
Atlanta is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Memphis's last 7 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Memphis's last 9 games at home

CHICAGO @ MILWAUKEE
Chicago is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Chicago is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 5 games
Milwaukee is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games at home

NEW ORLEANS @ DENVER
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 8 games on the road
Denver is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Denver is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home

SAN ANTONIO @ HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Antonio's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of San Antonio's last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL
Dunkel

Friday, December 15

Los Angeles @ NY Rangers

Game 51-52
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Los Angeles
11.224
NY Rangers
12.334
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
NY Rangers
by 1
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Rangers
-115
5 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
NY Rangers
(-115); Under

Dallas @ New Jersey

Game 53-54
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Dallas
12.504
New Jersey
10.122
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Dallas
by 2 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Dallas
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Dallas
N/A

Carolina @ Buffalo

Game 55-56
December 15, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Carolina
12.103
Buffalo
10.198
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Carolina
by 2
4
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Carolina
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Carolina
N/A

Toronto @ Detroit

Game 57-58
December 15, 2017 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
10.419
Detroit
11.909
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Detroit
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
N/A

San Jose @ Vancouver

Game 59-60
December 15, 2017 @ 10:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Jose
10.229
Vancouver
11.778
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Vancouver
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Vancouver
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Vancouver
N/A

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL
Long Sheet

Friday, December 15

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LOS ANGELES (20-9-0-3, 43 pts.) at NY RANGERS (16-12-0-3, 35 pts.) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 195-233 ATS (-73.9 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
LOS ANGELES is 8-2 ATS (+10.1 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
LOS ANGELES is 73-62 ATS (+143.4 Units) in road games when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
LOS ANGELES is 14-4 ATS (+8.9 Units) in non-conference games this season.
NY RANGERS are 198-230 ATS (-144.7 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY RANGERS is 2-2 (+0.2 Units) against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
NY RANGERS is 2-2-0 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.0 Units)

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

DALLAS (18-13-0-1, 37 pts.) at NEW JERSEY (17-9-0-5, 39 pts.) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW JERSEY is 2-2 (+0.6 Units) against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY is 2-2-0 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.9 Units)

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

CAROLINA (12-11-0-7, 31 pts.) at BUFFALO (8-18-0-6, 22 pts.) - 12/15/2017, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
CAROLINA is 4-3 (+0.5 Units) against the spread versus BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
CAROLINA is 4-3-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.1 Units)

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

TORONTO (20-12-0-1, 41 pts.) at DETROIT (11-13-0-7, 29 pts.) - 12/15/2017, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 6-3 (+4.0 Units) against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 6-3-0 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.8 Units)

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SAN JOSE (17-10-0-3, 37 pts.) at VANCOUVER (14-14-0-4, 32 pts.) - 12/15/2017, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN JOSE is 408-323 ATS (-115.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
SAN JOSE is 209-174 ATS (+23.0 Units) in road games first half of the season since 1996.
SAN JOSE is 155-110 ATS (+29.6 Units) when playing on back-to-back days since 1996.
VANCOUVER is 130-129 ATS (-74.4 Units) in home games vs. division opponents since 1996.
VANCOUVER is 119-124 ATS (-54.7 Units) in home games after allowing 4 goals or more since 1996.
VANCOUVER is 5-20 ATS (+27.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN JOSE is 9-2 (+3.4 Units) against the spread versus VANCOUVER over the last 3 seasons
SAN JOSE is 9-2-0 straight up against VANCOUVER over the last 3 seasons
5 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.0 Units)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL

Friday, December 15

Trend Report

CAROLINA @ BUFFALO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Buffalo's last 11 games at home
Buffalo is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games

DALLAS @ NEW JERSEY
Dallas is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Dallas is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New Jersey's last 8 games at home
New Jersey is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Dallas

LOS ANGELES @ NY RANGERS
Los Angeles is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Los Angeles is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
NY Rangers is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 11 of NY Rangers's last 16 games at home

TORONTO @ DETROIT
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Toronto's last 7 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games when playing at home against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Detroit's last 14 games when playing Toronto

SAN JOSE @ VANCOUVER
San Jose is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Vancouver
San Jose is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Vancouver
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Vancouver's last 5 games when playing San Jose
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Vancouver's last 14 games

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL Betting Cheat Sheet and Odds: Sin City can't stop scoring

A San Jose netminder has a homecoming, we get another outdoor game and there have been goals a plenty for Sin City.

Happy Homecoming?

San Jose netminder Martin Jones makes his return to his native British Columbia on Friday as he leads his Sharks into a road encounter with the Vancouver Canucks. Jones will try to help the Sharks end an ugly trend that has seen them drop six of their last eight in the second game of a back-to-back. And he's in good position to do just that, with Vancouver having won just five of its last 27 home games dating back to last season. The Canucks are coming off a humiliating 7-1 rout at the hands of the Nashville Predators, and have won just six times in their previous 27 head-to-head encounters with the Sharks.

Let's Play Outside

Outdoor games always provide a little extra intrigue to the regular season - and there will be plenty at stake for both teams as the Montreal Canadiens face the host Ottawa Senators in the Centennial Classic at Lansdowne Park. Montreal is looking for a return to consistency from netminder Carey Price, who came on like gangbusters in his return from injury but has struggled in recent games. Still, his troubles pale in comparison to those of the Senators, who have fallen out of the Eastern Conference playoff race and have dropped five straight to the Canadiens, including a 2-1 decision the last time these teams met on Nov. 29.

Goals! Goals!! Goals!!!

Sin City couldn't have asked for a better start to its NHL membership. Not only are the Vegas Golden Knights wildly successful, they're scoring goals in bunches - particularly in their own arena. The Golden Knights look to continue their success at T-Mobile Arena on Sunday night as they entertain the Florida Panthers. Vegas averages a healthy 3.6 goals per game at home, a major reason why they come into the weekend 19-10-2 O/U for the season. The numbers suggest they shouldn't have much trouble adding to that total, with the Panthers coming into this one surrendering 3.38 goals per contest.

Injury News

* Jaromir Jagr's stint in Calgary isn't going well. Jagr has missed the last five games with an lower-body injury and is questionable for Saturday's game against the Nashville Predators; the Flames are 8-8-1 SU and 11-5-1 O/U with Jagr in the lineup.

* The Columbus Blue Jackets are adjusting to live without forward Brandon Dubinsky, who will miss 6-to-8 weeks with an orbital bone fracture suffered in a fight against Edmonton's Zack Kassian. Columbus is 7-3-1 SU when Dubinsky records a point.

* When will he return? That's what Toronto Maple Leafs fans are wondering after superstar Auston Matthews missed his third game in a row Thursday with a hand injury. Matthews was struggling prior to the injury with one goal in his previous nine games.

Player Notes

* Rookie forward Brock Boeser is off to a sizzling start for Vancouver, but the Canucks haven't taken full advantage - at least, not yet. Boeser has 16 goals to date - tops among first year players - but Vancouver is just 5-5-1 in games when Boeser scores.

* The formula has always been a simple one for the Washington Capitals - they win when Alex Ovechkin scores. Ovechkin had an empty netter in Thursday's 5-3 win over Boston; the Caps have won seven straight games when he scores.

* The New York Islanders have a major problem in goal, where Thomas Greiss is playing his worst hockey since reaching the NHL. Greiss was victimized for five goals in Thursday's loss to Columbus and has surrendered 30 in his last seven starts.

Stanley Cup Futures

* The Tampa Bay Lightning are the team to beat when it comes to Stanley Cup futures. Led by electrifying forwards Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov and sensational goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, the Lightning are listed at +600 on Bet365 to win it all. The Eastern Conference leaders have just one game this weekend - a Saturday tilt in Colorado.

* Looking for a clear leader in the West? You won't find one - at least, not on Bet365. The St. Louis Blues are installed at +425 to reach the Stanley Cup final and +1,200 to win the championship - only slightly better than the Los Angeles Kings, listed at +440 to win the West and +1,250 to claim the league title. Nashville is next at +525 and +1,400, respectively.

* As for the two-time defending-champion Pittsburgh Penguins, they came into the season as the Stanley Cup co-favorites out of the East but have fallen on hard times as they struggle to produce goals in 5-on-5 situations. The Penguins are installed at +900 to come out of the conference and +1,600 to become the first team to three-peat since the New York Islanders (1980-83).

Over/Under Trends

* A combination of a lethal offense and recent defensive struggles have made the New York Islanders the league's top over play through 32 games. The Doug Weight-led Isles are 21-10-1 O/U to date, including a solid 10-3 at home.

* San Jose was easily the worst over play in the league last season, exceeding the total just 22 times. Apparently, oddsmakers haven't learned their lesson - the Sharks are trending in that direction yet again, having gone 8-21-1 O/U so far.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Brandon Lee Dec 15 '17, 7:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Nets vs Raptors
Play on: Nets +12 -108 at 5Dimes

10* FREE NBA PICK (Nets +12)
I'll take my chances here with Brooklyn catching double-digits on the road against the Raptors. I think we are seeing Toronto a bit overvalued here due to the fact the Nets are playing on no rest and the Raptors are 9-1 at home. Brooklyn lost last night at home to the Knicks 104-111 but are a rock solid 20-7 ATS in their last 27 off a SU loss. They are also 4-1 in their last 5 when playing on no rest and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games. I also don't love this spot for Toronto, as they have had just 1-day off after finishing up a 4-game road trip that ended out in Phoenix. I think we could see a flat Raptors team here against an inferior opponent. One last thing here, Brooklyn is a perfect 9-0 ATS this season against teams who average 106 or more points/game. Give me the Nets +12!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Martin Dec 15 '17, 9:35 PM in 4h
NBA | Spurs vs Rockets
Play on: Rockets -8 -102 at 5Dimes

1 Unit FREE PLAY on Houston Rockets -8
The Houston Rockets are 12-0 in games that Chris Paul plays this season. They are blowing teams out of the building, too. They have won each of their last 11 games coming in with nine of those victories coming by double-digits. The Spurs are trying to get Kawhi Leonard back in the mix. He returned against the Mavericks last game, and it didn’t go well as the Spurs were upset 89-95 as 5.5-point road favorites. Now the Spurs have to face a motivated Houston team that was eliminated by the Spurs in the playoffs last year, so the Rockets will be revenge-minded tonight. I expect them to keep rolling to another double-digit home victory in this contest. Give me the Rockets.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doug Upstone Dec 15 '17, 7:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Jazz vs Celtics
Play on: OVER 198 -110

Play Over on road teams when the total is between 190 and 199.5 points like Utah, after allowing 100 points or more in two straight games, against opponent after a combined score of 235 points or more. In the last 20 years, teams like the Jazz are 32-5, 86.5% OVER.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Totals Guru Dec 15 '17, 7:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Jazz vs Celtics
Play on: OVER 198 -115

Free Total Annihilator On Jazz vs Celtics over 198 -115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jack Jones Dec 15 '17, 7:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Jazz vs Celtics
Play on: Jazz +6½ -115 at Bovada

Jack’s Free Pick Friday: Utah Jazz +6.5
The Utah Jazz will be highly motivated for a victory following four straight losses. This run has followed six straight victories prior. And it’s largely due to a tough schedule with road games at Oklahoma City, Milwaukee and Chicago, as well as a home loss to red-hot Houston.
But I believe we want to ‘buy on’ the Jazz tonight. They are rested as this will be just their 2nd game in 6 days. This rest has allowed them to get healthy as the only two players they are missing right now are Dante Exum and Raul Neto. So they’re back to full strength basically and a dangerous team moving forward.
The Celtics are certainly an overvalued commodity due to their 24-6 record that has made it tough for them to live up to expectations here of late. The Celtics are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last five games overall. Now they are laying 6.5 points to a motivated, rested, and healthy Jazz squad tonight.
Boston is 2-14 ATS after a combined score of 235 or more points over the last three seasons. Utah is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 road games vs. at team with a winning home record. Boston is 1-4 ATS in its last five games vs. a team with a losing record. Bet the Jazz Friday.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bobby Conn Dec 15 '17, 7:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Jazz vs Celtics
Play on: OVER 198 -115

1* Free Play on Jazz/Celtics over 198 -115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Info Plays Dec 15 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Hawks vs Grizzlies
Play on: Grizzlies -6 -104 at 5Dimes

1* Free Play on Grizzlies -6 -104

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hunter Price Dec 15 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Hawks vs Grizzlies
Play on: Grizzlies -6 -104 at 5Dimes

1* Free Pick on Grizzlies -6 -104

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Dave Price Dec 15 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Bulls vs Bucks
Play on: Bulls +9 -110 at Bovada

Dave’s Friday Free Play:
1* on Chicago Bulls +9
The Key: The Chicago Bulls just can’t get any love from the books. They remain 9-point underdogs here Friday despite the fact that they are 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall. They have only lost one of their last 10 games by more than 7 points. Getting Nikola Mirotic back from injury has been a big boost for this team. He is averaging 19.5 points in 4 games played, which have all resulted in Chicago wins. Chicago is 17-6 ATS in its last 23 games as a road dog of 6.5 to 12 points. The Bucks are 0-6-2 ATS in their last 8 against NBA Central division teams. The Bulls are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 meetings in Milwaukee. Take Chicago.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sal Michaels Dec 15 '17, 9:35 PM in 4h
NBA | Spurs vs Rockets
Play on: Rockets -8 -108 at 5Dimes

Free Play on Rockets -8 -108

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Williams Dec 15 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NBA | Pistons vs Pacers
Play on: Pacers -4 -115 at BMaker

1* on Pacers -4 -115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jimmy Boyd Dec 15 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NBA | Heat vs Hornets
Play on: Heat +5½ -115 at BMaker

Free pick on Heat +
I like the value here with Miami as a decently priced road dog against the Hornets. Given the current form of the Hornets, this is simply too many points for them to be laying. Charlotte is just 2-8 in their last 10 games and just 5-14 in their last 19. A lot more was expected of this team this season, but they just aren't playing up to their potential.
I just think we are seeing the Hornets overpriced here against the Heat, due to the fact that Miami is without Hassan Whiteside and Justise Winslow. The thing is, this Heat team is use to playing shorthanded and I don't think it's going to hurt them here.
Miami is also coming in off a 95-102 loss at home as a short 2.5-point favorite, which puts them in a very profitable spot. The Heat are 16-5 ATS over the last 3 seasons off a home loss as a favorite. Last time out for the Hornets they lost 96-108 at Houston and they are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 off a SU loss by more than 10 points. Take Miami!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

TJ Pemberton Dec 15 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NHL | Hurricanes vs Sabres
Play on: Hurricanes -155 at 5Dimes

Free NHL Play: Carolina Hurricanes
Tough back-to-back for the Sabres heading into this one. The Hurricanes are the better team and won their last game on the road against a good Vegas team. The Hurricanes beat the Sabres 3-1 in November and this will be a similar outcome. The Carolina Hurricanes head to Buffalo after beating Vegas on the road 3-2 on Tuesday. The Hurricanes are 14-11-7 on the season and 8th in the Metro. Carolina is 3-4-3 over their last ten games and are 6-7-4 on the road this season. Scott Darling will make the start for the Hurricanes. Darling is 7-9-6 on the season with 59 goals allowed. Darling carries a 2.72 goals against average and a .899 save percentage.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bobby Wing Dec 15 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NBA | Heat vs Hornets
Play on: Hornets -5 -105 at Bovada

1 Unit Free Pick: Hornets -5 -105