Monday 12-18-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

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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)

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

Baseball
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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]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Evangeline Downs

Evangeline Downs - Race 2

Daily Double / Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta / Pick 3 (Races 2-3-4)


Maiden Claiming $10,000 • 300 Yards • Dirt • Age 2 • CR: 77 • Purse: $4,700 • Post: 3:40P
QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000.
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Not Applicable (Quarter Horse). * KEY ANGLES * JLA LIVE ACTION: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Horse has the highest average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/surface. RL SPIT TEE: Horse ranks in t he top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. SALADOS MAN: Quarter horse has the highest last race Equibase Speed Rating. Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. THIS BABE ZOOMS: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface.
5
JLA LIVE ACTION
10/1

5/1
10
RL SPIT TEE
4/1

6/1
4
SALADOS MAN
5/1

7/1
1
THIS BABE ZOOMS
6/1

8/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
1
THIS BABE ZOOMS
1

6/1
Average
67

65

5.8

0.0

0.0
2
PUERTO CABELLO
2

10/1
Slow/Trouble-prone
0

0

8.9

0.0

0.0
4
SALADOS MAN
4

5/1
Average
70

58

4.5

0.0

0.0
5
JLA LIVE ACTION
5

10/1
Average
82

69

5.0

0.0

0.0
6
ONE GUTSY EAGLE
6

12/1
Fast
64

58

3.1

0.0

0.0
8
AINT EYE SOMETHING
8

12/1
Slow
56

50

8.4

0.0

0.0
9
CORONAS ADOREME
9

20/1
Average
0

0

5.3

0.0

0.0
10
RL SPIT TEE
10

4/1
Fast/Trouble-prone
70

69

0.0

0.0

0.0

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Laurel - Race #7 - Post: 3:30pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $15,000 Class Rating: 83

Rating: 4

#6 NICARADALIC ROCKS (ML=3/1)


NICARADALIC ROCKS - I look for this horse to sit chilly off the pace and make a strong move on the turn, cruising straight on to the finish line. Ran last time out against much better horses at Penn National. The move down in class should suit him well. I think this gelding is ready to run a good one. He's had enough efforts since the layoff and should be fit. Ranks at the top in earnings per race. A powerful effort in this event will boost that total.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 EXPECTATIONS (ML=5/2), #4 MR. SPACEMAN (ML=4/1), #8 TOMO CHACHI (ML=6/1),

EXPECTATIONS - Much too far back in the early part of the last route race will probably make it tough to make an impact today in this sprint contest. MR. SPACEMAN - This gelding is always in the money, but just doesn't finish first. Difficult to bet on him on the front end. TOMO CHACHI - No success for this questionable contender in a sprint affair over the last two months tells me that this gelding is in a formidable circumstance Hard to play a runner that cannot even prove victorious one time in his last ten races. Don't believe this runner will make a winning move in today's race. That last fig was substandard when compared with today's class figure.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #6 NICARADALIC ROCKS on top if we're getting at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
6 with [4,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
6 with [4,8] with [2,4,5,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
6 with [2,4,5,8] with [2,4,5,8] with [2,4,5,8] Total Cost: $24

SUPER HIGH 5 WAGERS:
6 with [4,8] with [2,4,5,8] with [1,2,4,5,8] with [1,2,4,5,8] Total Cost: $36

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Mahoning Valley Race Course

Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race 6

Exacta / 50 cent Trifecta / 10 cent Superfecta / 50 cent Pick 3 (Races 6-7-8)


Claiming $4,000 • 1 Mile • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 87 • Purse: $9,800 • Post: 3:04P
FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON THREE RACES SINCE DECEMBER 18. THREE YEAR OLDS, 123 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 18 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $4,000 (MULTIPLE WINNERS SINCE DECEMBER 18, 2016 PREFERRED)(OHIO REGISTERED FOALS PREFERRED).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Basic Race. This race has a mixed pace scenario. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners (to look for a lone Front-runner). * KEY ANGLES * CARAMELO: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. MY WAY TAPPER: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. CEMENT JOB: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. ARAB SPRING: Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. COTTONWOOD CANYON: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days.
5
CARAMELO
5/2

5/1
6
MY WAY TAPPER
8/1

6/1
8
CEMENT JOB
10/1

7/1
2
ARAB SPRING
3/1

8/1
3
COTTONWOOD CANYON
5/1

10/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
5
CARAMELO
5

5/2
Front-runner
88

83

92.2

78.8

72.8
6
MY WAY TAPPER
6

8/1
Alternator/Front-runner
85

80

84.6

79.6

73.6
4
DEPUTY COPYCAT
4

15/1
Stalker
81

79

72.0

69.2

55.2
1
WON FAST BULLET
1

4/1
Stalker
78

70

64.0

62.6

50.6
8
CEMENT JOB
8

10/1
Alternator/Stalker
85

81

71.6

80.8

76.3
3
COTTONWOOD CANYON
3

5/1
Trailer
83

83

68.3

77.8

66.3
2
ARAB SPRING
2

3/1
Trailer
85

82

64.5

79.4

75.9
7
NEUK
7

15/1
Alternator/Non-contender
83

85

83.0

70.2

58.2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Portland Meadows

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

Race 3 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $5600 Class Rating: 79

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 18 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $3,200.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 5 JACKSON TELLER 6/1

# 4 POSSIBLE SPIDER 9/2

# 1 UNCLE KIMO 7/2

I like JACKSON TELLER here. He has been running solidly and the Equibase Speed Figures are among the most favorable in this group. Has been running soundly in races of this distance, going 2 out of 10 under similar conditions. Has very good early pace and ought to fare admirably against this group. POSSIBLE SPIDER - Horses who have been prepared to race at this distance and surface by Nance have shown sharp results lately. Must be given a chance in this event if only for the decent speed fig put up in the last contest. UNCLE KIMO - Has to be given consideration based on the quite good Equibase Speed Figure earned in the last contest. This gelding with Zunino in the irons makes him a key contender.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Parx Racing

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

Race 7 - Allowance - 8.3f on the Dirt. Purse: $46000 Class Rating: 89

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR STATE BRED OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 123 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 18 ALLOWED 3 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 5 SKYLINE DRIVE 4/1

# 7 STAY FOND 5/2

# 1A CHECKBOUNCIN BILLY 2/1

SKYLINE DRIVE is my choice. Solid average Equibase Speed Figures in dirt route races make this animal a key contender. Hard to pass on this filly with Vargas in the irons. Shows formidable Equibase Speed Figs on average overall when measured up against the rest of this field. STAY FOND - Has very strong Equibase Class Figures relative to this field - worth a look. Could provide positive gains based on strong recent Equibase Speed Figures with an average of 78. CHECKBOUNCIN BILLY - Has run well when racing a dirt route race. Is a solid contender - given the 83 speed fig from her most recent race.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turf Paradise - Race #3 - Post: 1:43pm - Allowance - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $14,000 Class Rating: 79

Rating: 4

#4 MY EXPRESSION (ML=5/1)


MY EXPRESSION - Have to give this filly a fair chance. Ran a nice effort in the last race within the last 30 days. I usually like playing sprint horses who are 3-4 races into a comeback. Last ran at Turf Paradise and finished fourth. Reviewing her PP lines, I see she was close at the finish, within five of the winner.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 TIZ THE STORM (ML=8/5), #3 ASTARTOBE (ML=9/5), #6 KINGSLEY (ML=9/2),

TIZ THE STORM - In any event of 6 furlongs, I like to back a contender that has been looking good in sprint races of late. Tough to bet on any horse to turn things around if there is no wager value to taking the shot. This vulnerable equine ran a most unsatisfactory speed rating last out. She shouldn't improve and will probably suffer defeat today running that rating. ASTARTOBE - Difficult to put any dough on this filly on the win end. Likes to finish in the money though. KINGSLEY - The Brain cautions me to keep my distance from ponies in short distance contests that haven't hit the board in sprint events lately. Could be tough for this thoroughbred to beat this field off of that last rating. Not probable to improve enough to run a figure close to today's class rating, so put her on the questionable challengers list.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #4 MY EXPRESSION to win if we can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Pass

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp Pick, Monday, December 18, 2017

NBA (703) BOSTON CELTICS VS (704) INDIANA PACERS

Take: UNDER

Reason: Your free play for Monday, December 18, 2017 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the Boston Celtics and the Indiana Pacers. The Boston Celtics (25-7 S/U, 21-9 ATS) take on the Indiana Pacers (16-13 S/U, 10-6 ATS). The Celtics have alternated wins and losses the last six games, coming off win at Memphis, 102,93. The Pacers have lost their last two home games after a four game win streak. Boston has one of the best defenses in the league, allowing 98.1 ppg overall and 97.1 ppg on the road. The Pacers are 1-5 O/U in their last six games and 1-4 O/U in their five home games. The teams have gone UNDER in seven of the last 10 meetings and are 3-8-1 O/U in the last 12 meetings in Indiana. Your free play is on the UNDER.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

JOEY JUICE

Let's back the Philadelphia 76ers on the road as they travel to take on the Chicago Bulls tonight.

Philadelphia has tremendous line value as they have now lost for the fifth time in six games 119-117 in triple overtime to the Thunder at home Friday night. Even more line value as Chicago won their fifth straight game,115-109 on the road over the Bucks Saturday night.

The inside numbers tell the story on why we're going to bet the Sixers here.
Philadelphia is 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a losing home record, the 76ers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400, and the 76ers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games playing on 2 days rest.

Play the well-rested Sixers here.

4* PHILADELPHIA

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BIG AL

Our complimentary selection for Monday, Dec 18 is:

SMU -7.5 over Boise St.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Falcons vs. Buccaneers Preview and Predictions

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

The Atlanta Falcons are in control of their playoff destiny and their chances to repeat as NFC South champions, but they also have a pack of teams nipping at their heels for the final postseason spot in the conference. A winner of four of its last five, Atlanta visits the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night in a rematch from three weeks ago.

The Falcons are one game behind NFC South co-leaders New Orleans and Carolina but still have to play the Saints and Panthers, giving them a chance to claim the division title by winning their final three games. "Focusing on the next team could be a little bit distracting," Falcons linebacker De'Vondre Campbell said. "We have to focus on (Tampa Bay) because every game at this point is a must-win." Atlanta, which currently holds the tiebreaker over Seattle for the No. 6 seed in the NFC, beat visiting Tampa Bay 34-20 on Nov. 26, but the Buccaneers were without quarterback Jameis Winston, who will be making his third start since returning from injury. Winston rallied Tampa Bay from a 14-point deficit last week before Tampa Bay lost to Detroit 24-21 in the final minute -- its third straight defeat and eighth in 10 games.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN. LINE: Falcons -6. O/U: 49

ABOUT THE FALCONS (8-5): Despite surpassing 1,000 yards for the fourth consecutive year, Julio Jones was having a relatively quiet season by his lofty standards until torching Tampa Bay for 12 catches for 253 yards and a pair of touchdowns -- his second and third scores of the campaign. Jones also had eight catches for 101 yards and a score at Tampa Bay in November 2016 as quarterback Matt Ryan riddled the Buccaneers for 344 yards and four touchdowns passes. Devonta Freeman has rushed for 165 yards in two games since returning from a concussion and could be in line for a heavy workload with backup Tevin Coleman in the concussion protocol. Adrian Clayborn (hamstring), who leads the team in sacks, did not practice Thursday, but coach Dan Quinn is moving Vic Beasley back into a pure pass-rushing role.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (4-9): Winston, who threw two fourth-quarter touchdowns last week to erase a 14-point deficit, enjoyed plenty of success last season against Atlanta, throwing for 542 yards with seven scores against one interception. Wideout Mike Evans has been practically invisible the past two games with a combined four catches, but he had eight receptions in last month's loss to the Falcons and lit them up for 16 catches for 249 yards and three touchdowns in both meetings last season. With Doug Martin continuing to struggle, Peyton Barber has provided a jolt to the ground game with 160 yards rushing over the past two contests. Tackle Gerald McCoy and linebacker Lavonte David missed practice, putting more pressure on a defense that surrenders a league-worst 276.1 yards passing.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Ryan has 17 scoring passes and five interceptions in his last eight Monday night appearances.

2. Buccaneers WR DeSean Jackson has 690 yards and three TDs in his past six Monday night games.

3. Atlanta is 8-0 when scoring at least 20 points this season.

PREDICTION: Falcons 27, Buccaneers 23

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Knicks vs. Hornets Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats07:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The New York Knicks seek their first five-game winning streak in nearly four years when they visit the Charlotte Hornets on Monday. Behind 30 points from Michael Beasley - playing in place of the injured Kristaps Porzingis - the Knicks rolled to a 111-96 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday to notch their longest run of the season at four games.

Porzingis is day-to-day with a lingering knee issue and New York won for the first time in five tries without him in the lineup. "I think the guys just, they were ready for tonight's game," Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek told reporters. "And we caught them after a triple-overtime game so that probably helped us too, but our guys played hard all night which probably wore them down." The Hornets have often appeared worn down of late, losing three straight and 10 of their last 12. Point guard Kemba Walker's shooting slump continued with a 7-for-26 showing in Saturday' 93-91 home loss to Portland.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, MSG (New York), FSN Southeast (Charlotte)

ABOUT THE KNICKS (16-13): Beasley wasn't the only player to step up in Porzingis' absence as three of New York's reserves - center Kyle O'Quinn, forward Doug McDermott and guard Ron Baker - combined for 33 points on 13-of-21 shooting to help the Knicks coast in Carmel Anthony's return to Madison Square Garden. "The game was kind of about him," McDermott told reporters. "I think we did a great job of not letting that distract us." Courtney Lee added 20 points and the veteran shooting guard has 47 while making 6-of-10 3-pointers over the last two games.

ABOUT THE HORNETS (10-19): Charlotte opened 7-2 at home but dropped six of its last seven at the Spectrum Center, including five straight. Walker is shooting 31.7 percent from the field during the three-game slide and he missed all nine of his 3-point tries in Saturday's loss while dealing with a wrist injury. "Kemba obviously had a rough night, but he gutted it out," associate head coach Stephen Silas - who continues to fill in for the ailing Steve Clifford - said of Walker. "The plays that he had down the stretch, I wouldn't want the ball in anybody else's hands."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Beasley is averaging 14.5 points on 52.7 percent shooting in 20.5 minutes in December.

2. Charlotte SG Nicolas Batum made 5-of-9 3-pointers against Portland after starting the season 12-for-54 from beyond the arc.

3. The Hornets have won the last six meetings with the Knicks at home.

PREDICTION: Knicks 106, Hornets 104

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Celtics vs. Pacers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/18/2017

The Boston Celtics turned it on late in a win at Memphis over the weekend and look to carry the momentum into a road matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Monday. Losers of three of five after a 22-4 start and trailing by two points to the Grizzlies entering the fourth quarter on Saturday, the Celtics scored 16 straight points to begin the period and rolled to a 102-93 victory.

"We just stayed composed and went out and executed," Boston forward Al Horford told reporters of the strong finish. "We got some stops on defense. On the offensive end, we moved the ball pretty well. I think that was the difference. We opened up the game after that." Kyrie Irving led Boston with 20 points and scored 25 in a 108-98 win at Indiana last month, the Celtics' fourth straight victory in the all-time series. That result ended a five-game winning streak for the Pacers, who are 11-5 in their last 16 games overall after a 109-97 triumph in Brooklyn on Sunday. Victor Oladipo's breakout campaign continued with 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting and seven rebounds as Indiana improved to 12-7 against the Eastern Conference.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NBCSN Boston, FSN Indiana

ABOUT THE CELTICS (25-7): Boston's fortunes of late largely have rested on the play of rookie forward Jayson Tatum, who recorded 19 points, nine rebounds, two blocks and two steals at Memphis. The 19-year-old, who leads the NBA with a 51 percent mark from 3-point range, is averaging 15 points while shooting 58.6 percent overall in the team's last three wins and 5.5 on 2-of-13 shooting in the two losses. Tatum's team-high nine boards helped the Celtics gain a 42-38 advantage on the glass one game after they were outrebounded 55-31 in a loss to Utah.

ABOUT THE PACERS (17-13): Myles Turner scored 16 points against the Nets and is averaging 20 on 15-of-25 shooting over his last two games while continuing to lead the league in blocks (2.4). His backup, rookie Domantas Sabonis, registered 17 points, eight rebounds and three blocks at Brooklyn as Indiana won the battle of the boards by 14. The young big men combined for 36 points and 13 rebounds in the loss to Boston last month in a game Oladipo missed due to a bruised knee.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Oladipo is averaging 30.2 points, seven rebounds and 4.8 assists over his last five games.

2. Irving averages 25.6 points while shooting 44.7 percent from 3-point range on the road, compared to 22.8 and 34.1 percent at home.

3. Indiana is 2-4 in the second game of back-to-back sets.

PREDICTION: Celtics 104, Pacers 100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Heat vs. Hawks Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Miami Heat head into Monday night's matchup at the Atlanta Hawks with four wins in their past five games, including a historic night for coach Erik Spoelstra in Saturday's 90-85 home triumph over the Los Angeles Clippers. Spoelstra became the franchise's all-time leader in wins, passing Pat Riley in a game that he joked afterward the coaching legend had to enjoy as Miami shot 37.8 percent from the field in a sluggish performance.

"Those are the old-school, tough, grind-it-out, find any way as a competitor to win the game," Spoelstra told reporters after forward Josh Richardson carried Miami with a career-high 28 points, helping Spoelstra earn career victory No. 455. Atlanta has lost four in row after winning three times in seven games, and at 6-23 owns the worst record in the NBA. The Hawks endured another close call in the fourth quarter Friday at Memphis, missing three shots to tie or win the game in the final 3.5 seconds of a 96-94 defeat. "I think we took a step forward as a team," Atlanta guard Kent Bazemore told the media afterward. "We didn't get the win, but there was a lot of good stuff."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, FSN Sun (Miami), FSN Southeast (Atlanta)

ABOUT THE HEAT (15-14): Richardson has emerged as a go-to option for Miami's offense, shooting 58.3 percent from 3-point range in the past eight games while averaging 16.3 points per contest in that span. The Heat are shooting 37 percent from 3-point range, scoring 35.7 percent of their points this season from beyond the arc. Guard Goran Dragic leads Miami in scoring at 16.6 points per game, but his production has dipped to 11.6 per contest in his past 10 games.

ABOUT THE HAWKS (6-23): Forward Taurean Prince hit a career-high five 3-pointers en route to 17 points Friday, and is shooting 42.5 percent from long range this season. Atlanta ranks sixth in the NBA in assists per game (23.6) and has recorded 25 or more in five of its past six contests. Guard Dennis Schroder leads the Hawks in scoring (19.7) and assists (6.7), finishing Friday with 18 points and 11 assists.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Hawks are 24th in the league in points allowed per game (108.7), and have surrendered 110 or more points seven times in the past 10 games.

2. Heat F James Johnson, who averages 10.9 points and 5.2 rebounds, will miss at least a week with right ankle bursitis.

3. Miami is 9-7 on the road this season after going 18-23 away from home in 2016-17.

PREDICTION: Miami 107, Atlanta 96

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jazz vs. Rockets Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats08:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Two teams streaking in opposite directions meet when the Houston Rockets host the Utah Jazz on Monday. The Rockets own the best record in the NBA and are riding a 13-game winning streak while the Jazz dropped five of their last six to fall out of the top eight in the Western Conference.

Houston's winning streak coincided with the return of point guard Chris Paul from a knee injury, and the future Hall of Famer intends to keep the streak alive as long as possible. "We want to keep it going. I mean, who likes to lose?" Paul asked reporters. "I said it before: I hate losing more than I like to win. We want to keep this thing going and keep building. You know, people always say, 'We'll learn from that,' that you learn from a loss. Well, let's win and learn from it, too." Utah looked like it was turning a corner when it earned a 107-95 win at Eastern Conference-leading Boston on Friday but fell back with a 109-100 setback in Cleveland the next night to drop to 1-3 on the six-game road trip. "There's always things you want to do better, but the game kind of went the way a lot of Cavaliers games have gone," Jazz coach Quin Snyder told reporters. "...I thought, overall, we did a good job of trying to hang in there."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain (Utah), AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston)

ABOUT THE JAZZ (14-16): Injuries to the frontcourt are beginning to pile up, and center Rudy Gobert is set for another absence after an MRI on Saturday revealed a strained PCL and a bone bruise in his left knee. Gobert, who missed 11 games bridging November and December with a knee injury and struggled after returning before going down again on Friday, is expected to be out at least two weeks. Power forward Derrick Favors, who averaged 16.5 points during Gobert's first absence, is in the league's concussion protocol after taking an elbow to the face against the Celtics.

ABOUT THE ROCKETS (24-4): Houston's only health issue right now involves All-Star guard James Harden, who leads the NBA in scoring (31.5) and is second in assists (9.1) but is battling a knee bruise. Harden nearly missed Saturday's 115-111 win over the Milwaukee Bucks but decided to suit up and managed 31 points in 39 minutes. "I wasn't feeling well at all, but the doc came in and just told me that there's going to be pain for a bit, but you can play through it," Harden told reporters. "It can't get worse, but it's going to be pretty painful until obviously you give it some time. Once he said that, I was like, 'Let's go.'"

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Jazz rookie SG Donovan Mitchell is averaging 25.8 points in eight games this month.

2. Rockets PF Ryan Anderson went scoreless on 0-of-4 shooting Saturday and is averaging 4.8 points while shooting 32.3 percent over the last five contests.

3. Houston already beat Utah twice this season, including a 137-110 home win on Nov. 5 in which Harden collected 56 points and 13 assists.

PREDICTION: Rockets 121, Jazz 108

[Can'tPickAWinner]

76ers vs. Bulls Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Philadelphia 76ers might be the hot up-and-coming team in the Eastern Conference, but the Chicago Bulls are starting to show that their rebuilding process is moving in the right direction as well. The Bulls will try to pull off their sixth consecutive victory when they host the 76ers on Monday.

Chicago's winning streak coincides directly with the return of power forward Nikola Mirotic, who missed the first 23 games recovering from facial fractures after a fight with fellow forward Bobby Portis during training camp. Portis and Mirotic are not speaking off the court, but the two are becoming a dynamic duo between the lines and are averaging a combined 35.6 points over the last five games. Philadelphia has its own dynamic duo in point guard Ben Simmons and center Joel Embiid, but the two managed to lead their team to just one win in the last six games. "We all want it all yesterday; it's the nature of all of us, especially in this city," 76ers coach Brett Brown told the team's website. "The evolution of our guys, where we are right now, what I feel in the locker room, what I feel at the practice facility, I'm proud of our guys, and I'm confident in our team, and the way we're trying to steer the program."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, NBCS Philadelphia-plus, NBCS Chicago

ABOUT THE 76ERS (14-14): Philadelphia will be taking the court for the first time since suffering a heartbreaking 119-117 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in triple-overtime on Friday. Embiid logged a career-high 48 minutes and scored 34 points in the setback and Simmons came up one rebound shy of a triple-double, but the 76ers still suffered their fourth straight single-digit defeat. "We put ourselves in a great position to really be in the game," small forward Robert Covington told reporters. "It was unfortunate that we took a loss. These are the types of losses that hurt the worst, especially all the fight we put into the game."

ABOUT THE BULLS (8-20): Portis scored a career-high 27 points and Mirotic added 22 in a 115-109 win at Milwaukee on Friday, and the two are moving beyond their off-the-court issues. "Everything is the team," Portis told reporters. "We're professionals, we're basketball players and this is our job. We have to come in every day and find a way to make it work and I feel like we've done it to this point. It's been fun playing with Niko. He's a hell of a player. He's been playing out of his mind since he's been back. I'm happy for him. I'm happy to have him back." Mirotic scored at least 22 points in each of the last three games and is shooting 56.3 percent from the floor in that span.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Bulls rookie PF Lauri Markkanen (back spasms) missed the last three games and is day-to-day.

2. 76ers PF Trevor Booker (ankle) left Friday's game and was already ruled out for Monday.

3. The Bulls took three of the four meetings last season, with Philadelphia's lone win coming at Chicago on March 24.

PREDICTION: 76ers 115, Bulls 111

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trail Blazers vs. Timberwolves Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats08:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Portland Trail Blazers have turned around their fortunes on the road and seek their fourth straight win to close out a long road trip when they visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday. After opening the five-game trip with a loss at Golden State, the Blazers turned it up on the defensive end to defeat three straight Eastern Conference opponents.

"Even though it wasn't in a sexy way on the offensive end, in a sense, I think defensively we stuck in there and did the right things to make some plays," guard Evan Turner told the media after Saturday's 93-91 victory in Charlotte. While Portland is making the most of a five-game road trip, the Timberwolves are just 2-2 on a five-game homestand that has already featured three of the four teams at the bottom of the Western Conference. One of those squads - Phoenix - trailed by as many as 15 points before rallying for a 108-106 triumph Saturday in Minneapolis. Karl-Anthony Towns recorded his NBA-leading 24th double-double with 28 points and 11 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who lost at home against a conference opponent for the first time in nine games.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, NBCSN Northwest (Portland), FSN North (Minnesota)

ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (16-13): Guard CJ McCollum scored a game-high 25 points at Charlotte and is averaging 24.4 while shooting 52.3 percent over a five-game stretch. Running mate Damian Lillard was held to 18 points and is averaging 19 - nearly seven below his season average - in the last three games while going 19-for-49 from the floor, although he had 11 assists Saturday. Portland hosts San Antonio on Wednesday as it tries to snap a four-game home losing streak.

ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (17-13): Saturday's loss at home to a sub-.500 team without its leading scorer was another example that Minnesota - while talented - has some work to do to learn how to win consistently. "I didn't like it from the jump," forward Taj Gibson told the media. "I felt like we were getting loose from the bench. It just didn't feel right. We always do that. We get a good lead, get up 20, maybe 15 and start feeling good, and we just have a letdown." Gibson also had a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds but the Timberwolves were dominated on the glass by a 52-31 margin.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Portland entered Sunday ranked fourth in the NBA in opponents' field-goal percentage (44.2), while Minnesota was 29th (48.0).

2. Timberwolves PG Tyus Jones has made all six of his shot attempts over the last three games and is 4-for-4 from long range over a five-game span.

3. McCollum averaged 27.5 points on 56.3 percent shooting as Portland took three of four meetings last season.

PREDICTION: Timberwolves 111, Trail Blazers 107

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Nuggets vs. Thunder Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Oklahoma City Thunder made some progress this month despite their last game and hope to take advantage of a big stretch at home which begins with a visit from the improving Denver Nuggets on Monday night. The Thunder were routed at New York 111-96 on Saturday but won six of nine in December and play seven of the next eight at home, where they are 9-4 this season.

Oklahoma City won the first two games on its recent trip against Indiana and Philadelphia before allowing 55.1 percent shooting from the field against the Knicks on Saturday as Carmelo Anthony struggled to 5-of-18 from the field in his return to New York. The Thunder hope to settle back into the form that helped lead to a win over San Antonio earlier in the month when they take on Denver, which is one-half game out of fourth in the Western Conference after missing the playoffs in each of the last four seasons. The Nuggets, who beat Oklahoma City 102-94 on Nov. 9, recovered from a rough 2-4 road trip by outlasting New Orleans 117-111 in overtime Friday as Will Barton went 4-for-4 from the field in the extra period. "We want to be a playoff team," Denver coach Michael Malone told reporters after the win. "And these are the kinds of physical games you have to win to get there."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, NBATV, Altitude 2 (Denver), FS Oklahoma

ABOUT THE NUGGETS (16-13): Center Nikola Jokic returned from a seven-game absence due to an ankle injury with 13 points, 11 rebounds and four assists in the victory over New Orleans. Guard Gary Harris accumulated 57 points in the last two games combined to take over the scoring lead for the balanced Nuggets at 16.1 while Barton (15.8) is next, including a 41.4 percent success rate from 3-point range. Guard Torrey Craig made his first career start Friday and finished with six points along with a key block late in regulation.

ABOUT THE THUNDER (14-15): Reigning MVP Russell Westbrook shot at least 50 percent from the field for the first time in 17 games Saturday (9-for-18), scoring 25 points in the loss to the Knicks, and tops the team at 22.8 overall. Paul George (20.3) and Anthony (17.8) give Oklahoma City thee prime scoring threats, but only one other player averages more than eight. Center Steven Adams (13.7 points, 8.8 rebounds) is the top inside threat, but the former first-round pick is questionable after missing the last game with a concussion.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Denver PF Trey Lyles, who is averaging 7.6 points overall, scored at least 19 in three of the last four games.

2. Oklahoma City F Patrick Patterson reached double figures in scoring for the first time this season on Saturday with 12.

3. Nuggets PG Emmanuel Mudiay, who is averaging 9.6 points, left Friday's game with a sprained ankle and is questionable.

PREDICTION: Thunder 110, Nuggets 100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Clippers vs. Spurs Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The road trip started out on a positive note for the Los Angeles Clippers, but the last two games saw the offense disappear again. The Clippers will try to find the missing points and come out even on the four-game trip when they visit the San Antonio Spurs on Monday.

Los Angeles missed 20 of its 28 3-point attempts and turned the ball over 17 times in a 90-85 loss at Miami on Saturday, but it was a phantom foul call that went against the team in the final minute that took most of the blame for the loss. "I don't know if we would have won the game or not, but I thought we got missed calls down the stretch and I thought that hurt us," Clippers coach Doc Rivers told reporters. "Having said that, I just love our spirit. There are so many reasons not to hang in there, not to play and our guys just keep doing it." The Spurs found their spirit during a 13-0 run to end the game on Saturday that gave then a 98-96 win over the Dallas Mavericks. San Antonio continues to be cautious with stars Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard while coming off injury, but ageless wonder Manu Ginobili and star power forward LaMarcus Aldridge are keeping the team afloat.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, FS Prime Ticket (Los Angeles), FS Southwest (San Antonio)

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (11-17): Injuries to Blake Griffin (knee), Austin Rivers (concussion), Danilo Gallinari (hip) and Patrick Beverley (knee) rob Los Angeles of an average of 63.7 points, and the team had trouble making up the difference while averaging 88 points in losses at Washington and Miami. Veteran shooting guard Lou Williams (19.9 points) is second on the team in scoring behind Griffin (23.6) but struggled to a combined 9-of-30 from the floor in the two setbacks. DeAndre Jordan continues to do his part and collected his fourth consecutive double-double with 12 points and 20 rebounds on Saturday.

ABOUT THE SPURS (20-10): Ginobili, 40, scored 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting in 23 minutes off the bench on Saturday, with his biggest bucket coming with 3.5 seconds left and serving as the game winner. "Man, with Manu, when it's crunch time, I think he's going to make everything," point guard Dejounte Murray told ESPN.com. "That's just Manu. Manu's gonna Manu." Leonard sat out the win as part of the effort to maintain his health as he works his way back from quad tendinopathy, but he is expected to play on a minutes restriction Monday.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Rivers is expected to return for the Clippers on Monday.

2. Spurs SG Danny Green (groin) sat out Saturday's game and is day-to-day.

3. San Antonio earned a 120-107 home win over Los Angeles in the last meeting on Nov. 7.

PREDICTION: Spurs 103, Clippers 96

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Suns vs. Mavericks Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Phoenix Suns used a dramatic fourth-quarter rally to steal a win on the road Saturday, while the Dallas Mavericks were coughing up a late lead. Both teams will look for a complete 48-minute effort when they meet Monday in Dallas.

Phoenix trailed by as many as 15 points before surging for a 108-106 win at Minnesota on Saturday, utilizing three free throws from new addition Isaiah Canaan in the closing seconds. "Playoff experience really helps in moments like those just to be able to calm down and just know that it's a regular free throw, regular part of the game" Canaan - who signed with the Suns on Wednesday - told reporters. "When I got fouled, I knew I was going to make them. Stepped up to the line and made them." While Phoenix was finishing strong, the Mavericks choked away an 11-point lead in the final four-plus minutes of a 98-96 loss at San Antonio. The setback concluded a seven-game stretch against winning teams, during which Dallas went 2-5.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona (Phoenix), FSN Southwest (Dallas)

ABOUT THE SUNS (10-21): Canaan had 15 points, seven assists and five rebounds in his debut with Phoenix and led an outstanding effort by the team's bench. While the Suns' starters combined for 39 points on 11-of-37 shooting, six reserves had 69 points on 22-of-35, with Troy Daniels and Dragan Bender going for 17 points apiece. Center Alex Len added 12 points, a career-high 19 rebounds and a season-high six assists behind starter Tyson Chandler, who returned from a one-game layoff for personal reasons.

ABOUT THE MAVERICKS (8-22): The bright spot in the loss at San Antonio was the play of forward Maximilian Kleber, who made 9-of-10 shots en route to a personal-best 21 points. Fellow rookie Dennis Smith Jr. (hip) missed his fifth straight game and Dallas simply fell apart late in its fifth road game in an 11-day span. "We did everything right to lose," forward Dirk Nowitzki told the media. "We missed shots offensively, bad turnover, gave them some offensive rebounds. Letting (Manu) Ginobili go left down the stretch to lay it in. We literally had to do everything perfect to lose this one and we did."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Daniels is averaging 24.5 points on 16-of-24 shooting - including 11-of-16 - over the last two games.

2. Nowitzki has played 1,424 career games, tied with Kevin Willis for sixth on the all-time list.

3. Phoenix took three of four meetings last season with Dallas picking up its only win in a matchup in Mexico City.

PREDICTION: Mavericks 108, Suns 104

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Warriors vs. Lakers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats10:30 PM
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Los Angeles Lakers will retire Kobe Bryant's jersey during halftime on Monday and the Golden State Warriors, who will be visiting, intend to watch the ceremony. The Lakers will retire both Nos. 8 and 24 in honor of Bryant, who was part of five NBA championship teams while spending his entire career with the franchise.

"Just the experience in seeing one of the greatest players in the history of the game getting his jersey retired and we happen to be there," Warriors coach Steve Kerr told reporters. "I'm not going to keep them in the locker room to watch tape of the first half. The players would look at me like I was nuts. There's something interesting going on the floor. Let's go out there." Golden State hopes to have a lead at halftime and continues to battle through injuries while posting eight consecutive wins. The Lakers are returning home after dropping the final two of a four-game road trip and have been off since 121-112 setback in Cleveland on Thursday. "I think that we showed what our identity is going to be, we are just not all the way there yet," Lakers coach Luke Walton told reporters. "It is tough to do it for entire stretches of games."

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, NBATV, NBCS Bay Area (Golden State), Spectrum SportsNet (Los Angeles)

ABOUT THE WARRIORS (23-6): Golden State expects to be without point guard Stephen Curry (ankle) for another week and already declared starters Zaza Pachulia (shoulder) and Draymond Green (shoulder) out for Monday along with key reserve Shaun Livingston (knee). "It's gotta be as beaten up as we've ever been since I've been here," Kerr told reporters. "I don't remember having this many guys out, in particularly the starters. It's all part of it and we've handled it really well, obviously, and it's created some opportunities for other guys and I think they've taken advantage. So, it's all good." Kevin Durant is carrying a heavier load with all the injuries and is averaging 33.8 points, 10.3 rebounds and 7.3 assists over the last four games.

ABOUT THE LAKERS (10-17): Los Angeles dropped seven of its last nine games and allowed at least 113 points in each of those seven setbacks. The Lakers allowed the Cavaliers to shoot 50 percent from the floor in Thursday's 121-112 loss but got some strong performances on the other end of the floor from some of its young stars. Second-year small forward Brandon Ingram bounced back from a 2-of-12 effort at New York on Tuesday to score 26 points on 10-of-15 on Thursday while rookie Kyle Kuzma added 20 points off the bench.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Warriors SG Nick Young (concussion) is expected to return on Monday.

2. Lakers SG Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will sit out road games outside of California for the next month as part of a plea agreement tied to his arrest for suspicion of drunk driving.

3. Golden State took the last four in the series but needed overtime to earn a 127-123 win at Los Angeles in the last meeting on Nov. 29.

PREDICTION: Warriors 119, Lakers 116

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Anaheim Ducks at New Jersey Devils Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Anaheim Ducks look to extend their point streak to eight contests as they continue their six-game road trip Monday against the New Jersey Devils. Anaheim dropped a 3-2 overtime decision at Washington on Saturday, falling to 1-0-1 on its trek, and has gone 3-0-4 since losing in regulation to Columbus on Dec. 1.

The Ducks carried a 2-0 lead into the third period against the Capitals but came unglued and fell to 2-0-8 in overtime this season. New Jersey continues a six-game homestand that began Friday with a 5-2 triumph over Dallas. Brian Boyle led the way with a pair of goals - including the 100th of his career, which proved to be the game-winner. The 33-year-old, who also notched an assist in the win, has scored seven of his eight goals on the season over his last 11 contests.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, KCOP-13 (Anaheim), MSG Plus (New Jersey)

ABOUT THE DUCKS (14-11-8): Hampus Lindholm returned to the lineup Saturday and registered three shots while blocking one in 17 minutes, 48 seconds of ice time. The 23-year-old Swedish defenseman had missed five games with a concussion. Adam Henrique has recorded three goals and three assists in eight contests since being acquired from New Jersey on Nov. 30.

ABOUT THE DEVILS (18-9-5): Taylor Hall leads the team with 31 points and ranks second with 11 goals but has missed the last two games with a knee contusion. Brian Gibbons tops the club with 12 tallies in 32 games after registering five in 66 contests over his first two NHL seasons with Pittsburgh (2013-14) and Columbus (2014-15). The 29-year-old left wing is tied for fourth on the team with 20 points and has collected five in his last five games.

OVERTIME

1. Ducks LW Andrew Cogliano has gone nine games without an assist, remaining stuck on 199 for his career.

2. New Jersey D Will Butcher ranks second among NHL rookies with 19 assists.

3. Anaheim RW Jakob Silfverberg, who has landed on the scoresheet in four of his last five contests, is one assist shy of 100 in the NHL.

PREDICTION: Devils 3, Ducks 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Kings vs. Flyers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Two teams streaking in opposite directions face off Monday as the Philadelphia Flyers continue their five-game homestand against the Los Angeles Kings. Philadelphia has made its 10-game slide (0-5-5) a distant memory with a season-high winning streak that was extended to six contests with Saturday's 2-1 overtime triumph over Dallas.

Defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere scored both goals, including the winner at 3:50 of the extra session as the Flyers improved to 3-0-0 on their stretch at Wells Fargo Center. Los Angeles, meanwhile, has followed an eight-game winning streak with a three-game skid (0-2-1) and looks to salvage the finale of its four-game road trip. The Kings earned a point against the New York Islanders on Saturday as captain Anze Kopitar scored the tying goal with 13 seconds remaining in the third period but went on to fall 4-3 in overtime. The 30-year-old Kopitar has netted a team-high 17 tallies in 34 games after recording only 12 in 76 contests last season.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NHL Network, FSN West (Los Angeles), NBCSN Philadelphia

ABOUT THE KINGS (20-10-4): Tyler Toffoli registered his 100th career assist in Saturday's setback and can reach two more milestones against Philadelphia. The 25-year-old center is one goal shy of the century mark and one point away from 200 in the NHL. Los Angeles has allowed a power-play tally in five consecutive games after yielding one in back-to-back contests only twice this season.

ABOUT THE FLYERS (14-11-7): Jakub Voracek recorded two assists on Saturday, giving him a league-leading 33 and a team-high 40 points. Philadelphia has done a good job staying out of the penalty box lately, permitting fewer than three power-play opportunities in seven consecutive games. Sean Couturier tops the club with 15 goals but has scored just once in his last eight contests.

OVERTIME

1. The Flyers are the third team in NHL history to win at least six in a row after losing 10 straight, joining the 1966-67 Toronto Maple Leafs and 2005-06 San Jose Sharks.

2. Los Angeles RW Dustin Brown will be playing in his 999th career game on Monday.

3. Philadelphia's winning streak is its longest since a 10-game run from Nov. 27-Dec. 14, 2016.

PREDICTION: Kings 4, Flyers 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Blue Jackets vs. Bruins Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The Boston Bruins look to avoid a winless homestand when they host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday. The Bruins had won nine of 11 games before dropping a 5-3 contest against Washington on Thursday and a 3-2 overtime decision to the New York Rangers two days later.

"We certainly had opportunities to take advantage early, and we didn't," Boston coach Bruce Cassidy told reporters after Saturday's setback. "Even in overtime, just lost control of pucks and lost our footing, and it took some good chances away." Bruins leading scorer David Pastrnak brings a career high-tying 11-game point streak into the matchup with the Blue Jackets and teammate Brad Marchand has landed on the scoresheet in eight straight contests. Columbus built a 36-24 advantage in shots Saturday in Carolina but came away with its second loss in three contests, a 2-1 defeat on the first leg and a two-game road trip. "I don't think we really got to it, as far as rebounds and getting to second opportunities," Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella told reporters of his team, which has scored fewer than three goals in three of its last four contests. "To score goals, you're going to have to score some ugly ones along the way."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Sportsnet, TVA, FSN Ohio (Columbus), NESN (Boston)

ABOUT THE BLUE JACKETS (20-12-1): Oliver Bjorkstrand is warming up with a goal and five assists in his last three games and ranks second on the team with 22 points - six behind Artemi Panarin. Alexander Wennberg, who recorded a career-high 59 points in 2016-17, also is starting to increase his production with a pair of goals and two assists in his last five contests after managing one point in the previous 10 games. Columbus could take some pressure off with better play on the power play, which is last in the league at 9.67 percent.

ABOUT THE BRUINS (15-10-5): Pastrnak, who leads the team with 30 points, has collected five goals and eight assists during his point streak while Marchand has netted five tallies and set up seven others during his career-best run. Boston is getting healthier as Ryan Spooner returned Saturday from a four-game absence due to a lower-body injury, and defenseman Adam McQuaid (broken fibula) could be back Monday after missing two months. Tuukka Rask has allowed just 10 goals in his last seven games, going 5-1-1 after a slow start to the season.

OVERTIME

1. The Blue Jackets earned a 4-3 shootout victory over the Bruins at home on Oct. 30 as Panarin and Bjorkstrand both scored in the bonus format.

2. Boston rookie C Danton Heinen (18 points) has recorded three goals and three assists in his last six games.

3. Columbus recalled D Cameron Gaunce and LW Sonny Milano from Cleveland while assigning LW Jordan Schroeder and D Gabriel Carlsson to the American Hockey League team on Sunday.

PREDICTION: Blue Jackets 4, Bruins 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sharks vs. Oilers Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

After earning three points over the first two contests of their three-game road trip, the San Jose Sharks attempt to extend their streak to six games Monday without their leading scorer as they visit the Edmonton Oilers. San Jose, which has gone 3-0-2 in its last five, lost Logan Couture to a head injury in Friday's 4-3 overtime loss at Vancouver.

The 28-year-old Couture, who tops the Sharks in goals (15) and points (26), is expected to miss Monday's contest and possibly more with what may be a concussion. Defenseman Brent Burns tallied twice in the setback against the Canucks, marking his second two-goal performance in three games and fourth two-point effort in his last five contests. Edmonton is beginning a three-game stretch at home, where it has lost three in a row. The Oilers are coming off a 3-2 triumph at Minnesota on Saturday in which Cam Talbot returned from a seven-game absence due to an upper-body injury and made 29 saves.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, NBCSN California (San Jose), Sportsnet West (Edmonton)

ABOUT THE SHARKS (17-10-4): Joe Thornton had his four-game point streak halted Friday, keeping him one behind Doug Gilmour (1,414) for 18th place on the all-time list. The 38-year-old Thornton also is nine assists away from tying Mario Lemieux (1,033) for 11th in NHL history. After scoring at least 29 goals in each of the previous four seasons, captain Joe Pavelski has recorded only six in 31 games this campaign.

ABOUT THE OILERS (14-17-2): Edmonton hopes to get healthier on the blue line soon as Adam Larsson (upper body) and Andrej Sekera (knee) continue to get closer to returning to the lineup. "Larsson, yes," coach Todd McLellan told the team's website when asked if the defensemen would be back before Christmas. "Sekera is getting close. We'll have to make that call as we progress, but Andrej won't play (Monday)." Connor McDavid leads the team with 40 points and has not been kept off the scoresheet in back-to-back games this season.

OVERTIME

1. Sharks G Martin Jones is 0-0-2 in his last two starts, remaining one win shy of 100 for his career.

2. Edmonton and San Jose are among four teams tied for the league lead with six short-handed goals.

3. Burns has scored five goals in as many games after recording one in his first 26 contests this season.

PREDICTION: Oilers 3, Sharks 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Penguins vs. Avalanche Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

The two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins look to string together a pair of wins to end a short road trip when they visit the Colorado Avalanche on Monday. The Penguins, who had an uneven start to the season, snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-2 victory at Arizona on Saturday and hope to avenge last Monday's 2-1 loss to the Avalanche.

Pittsburgh coughed up a two-goal lead against the Coyotes before defenseman Olli Maatta's goal with 14.6 seconds remaining snapped a 2-2 tie and improved the Penguins to 7-9-2 on the road this season. "It was a little discouraging when they tied it up. I thought we controlled a lot of the play for a lot of the night," Pittsburgh coach Mike Sullivan told reporters after the win. "It was just one of those nights. I really liked our stick-to-it-iveness. We just went back to work." Colorado rallied from four goals down to get within one before suffering a 6-5 loss to Tampa Bay on Saturday despite captain Gabriel Landeskog's career-high five points, including his second hat trick of the season. "We're here to play and we're here to compete," Landeskog told reporters. "We're not going to be pushed around and we're not going to give up on anybody. The most important thing is that we showed that to ourselves (Saturday)."

TV: 9 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh, Altitude (Colorado)

ABOUT THE PENGUINS (17-14-3): Pittsburgh is just 4-4-0 this month, but that record could be much worse if not for a penalty-killing unit that has been a perfect 23-for-23 in the last eight contests. Phil Kessel tops the team with 15 goals, including four in his last seven games, and 38 points - five more than captain Sidney Crosby, who has recorded eight goals and nine assists in his last 12 contests. Evgeni Malkin has notched at least one point in seven of eight games this month after scoring his 10th goal of the campaign in Saturday's victory.

ABOUT THE AVALANCHE (15-15-2): Defenseman Erik Johnson was suspended two games for boarding Tampa Bay's Vladislav Namestnikov on Saturday. Landeskog's big performance gave him 13 goals and pulled him within a pair of team leader Nathan MacKinnon, who has collected four tallies and an assist in his last two games to increase his team-best total to 38 points. Alex Kerfoot (21 points), who has missed the last three contests with a lower-body injury, could return Monday.

OVERTIME

1. The Penguins have won five of their last six games at Colorado but dropped their last two at home against the Avalanche.

2. Colorado G Semyon Varlamov is 3-1-1 with a .917 save percentage in his career against the Penguins.

3. Crosby is four goals away from 400 in his career and RW Patric Hornqvist needs two assists to reach 200.

PREDICTION: Penguins 4, Avalanche 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Houston Baptist vs. Michigan State Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/18/2017

No. 2 Michigan State looks to extend its winning streak to 10 games when it begins a five-game homestand Monday against Houston Baptist in a non-conference contest. The Spartans pulled away from a feisty Oakland team for a neutral-court victory on Saturday, while the Huskies are coming off a home rout of Barclay on Friday.

Freshmen David Caraher and Ian DuBose are the highest-scoring duo in the Southland Conference, averaging 15.2 and 11.4 points, respectively. They'll both certainly be focused on by Michigan State's defense, which leads the nation in field-goal percentage defense, allowing just 33.3 percent shooting. Offensively, it's nearly impossible to focus on all the Spartans' scoring threats, as all five starters are averaging double digits this season - including sophomore forwards Miles Bridges (15.1 points, 6.5 rebounds) and Nick Ward (13.8, 6.9). The backcourt duo of Joshua Langford (13.3 points) and Cassius Winston (13.3, 6.4 assists, national-best 58.3 3-point percentage) is equally dangerous, with both able to bury an opponent from beyond the arc.

TV: 6 p.m. ET, Big Ten Network

ABOUT HOUSTON BAPTIST (4-7): The Huskies have been one of the top rebounding teams in the country this season, ranking 14th in rebounds per game (42.1) and third in offensive boards (15.8). Without a lot of size - 6-10 Edward Hardt is the only starter above 6-6 - coach Ron Cottrell has his team competing on the glass every night because everyone concentrates on getting to the boards. Four different players average at least 5.1 rebounds, including point guard Braxton Bonds at 6.2, although the Huskies likely will need a lot more than hustle against a Michigan State squad blessed with loads of height and depth.

ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE (10-1): While the Spartans' starting five gets a lot of the attention, the bench may be what sets this team apart from others that have played for Tom Izzo, giving him versatility and answers when he needs to make adjustments. Against Oakland, despite Ward playing great, Izzo switched to forward Kenny Goins when the Golden Grizzlies went to a zone in the second half, and the junior responded with a career-high seven assists from the high post. Likewise, with Oakland's Kendrick Nunn scoring 31 points in the game's first 31 minutes, Izzo brought in senior guard Lourawls Nairn Jr. to shut him down, and Nunn was held to just a single free throw the rest of the way as Michigan State pulled away in the final minutes for the victory.

TIP-INS

1. Bonds recorded just the third triple-double in school history in the win over Barclay, finishing with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists.

2. Michigan State ranks second in the nation in blocked shots per game, averaging 8.1 behind freshman F Jaren Jackson Jr.'s team-best 3.1 - which is 14th in the country.

3. The Spartans are No. 19 in the nation in scoring defense (62.4 points), allowing just three opponents to record more than 60 points this season.

PREDICTION: Michigan State 88, Houston Baptist 62

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Northern Arizona vs. South Florida Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

South Florida looks to win consecutive games for the second time this season when the Bulls host Northern Arizona on Monday night. USF has not won back-to-back games since knocking off Howard and Arkansas State on Nov. 22 and 24, respectively.


.

The Bulls hope to carry over the strong shooting performance from last Thursday's victory against Bethune-Cookman into Monday's meeting with Northern Arizona, which allows just short of 50 percent shooting. USF had its best shooting night of the season last time out, hitting on 55.6 percent from the field and draining 7-of-14 from 3-point range. It marked the first time the Bulls made at least 55 percent of their shots and 50 percent from behind the 3-point line in the same game since Nov. 28, 2016 against Kennesaw State. Only one prior time this season had USF been better than 50 percent from the field, which came during a victory at Stetson on Nov. 15.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, No TV

ABOUT NORTHERN ARIZONA (2-9): Sophomore guard JoJo Anderson is coming off a career-high 30 points in the Lumberjacks' loss to South Dakota on Thursday. Anderson had not scored more than 19 in any game this season and managed just 22 combined points in the previous three contests. He is one of two players averaging in double digits scoring despite starting just four of 11 games this season.

ABOUT SOUTH FLORIDA (5-6): The Bulls had five players reach double digits in scoring for the first time since Dec. 16, 2015, last time out. Senior guard Stephan Jiggetts led the way with 20 points and became the second player this season to lead the Bulls in scoring, rebounds (five) and assists (seven) in the same game. The Bulls put up a season-high in points with 83 against Bethune-Cookman, nearly 20 more than their season average.

TIP-INS

1. USF F Malik Martin is shooting 60.3 percent from the floor this season and is coming off a perfect 5-for-5 night against Bethune-Cookman.

2. Jiggets ranks second in the American Athletic Conference in free-throw percentage, hitting 92 percent from the charity stripe.

3. USF is 30th nationally among 351 Division I schools in free-throw percentage (76.3 percent).

PREDICTION: South Florida 74, Northern Arizona 69

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Northern Illinois vs. Marquette Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Marquette is off to a sensational start, having opened with seven wins in its first 10 games and an emphatic victory over rival Wisconsin in its first road game of the season. And things are about to get even better for the Golden Eagles, as they add towering center Harry Froling to the lineup in time for Monday's home meeting with Northern Illinois.

Froling, a 6-11 Australia native and SMU transfer who was forced to sit out Marquette's first 10 games, is expected to provide a significant frontcourt presence after averaging 4.3 points and 3.2 rebounds in 14.6 minutes over 10 games with the Mustangs last season. He joins a Golden Eagles team that shot a red-hot 14-of-22 from 3-point range in an 82-63 rout of the Badgers, prompting head coach Steve Wojciechowski to say afterward: "It was as good of a 40-minute effort that we've had all season." Marquette goes for its sixth win in seven games Monday as it hosts a Northern Illinois team that held off Central Connecticut 61-55 last time out. Eugene German led the way with 19 points for the Huskies, who have alternated wins and losses over their previous five games.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1

ABOUT NORTHERN ILLINOIS (6-4): German leads the Huskies in scoring and ranks fourth in the Mid-American Conference in scoring (19.9 ppg), and has shot 50 percent from the field or better in three consecutive games; he has also made 15 3-pointers so far this season, just one fewer than he had in 2016-17. Junior guard Levi Bradley contributes 15.2 points and a team-best 5.8 rebounds, and has racked up nine boards in each of his last two games. Northern Illinois has been sensational at preventing opposing steals, yielding just 3.1 per game - the fewest in the nation.

ABOUT MARQUETTE (7-3): Second-year guard Markus Howard has been the driving force behind the Golden Eagles' offense, leading the Big East and ranking 16th in the nation in scoring (22.5 ppg); he has averaged nearly 30 points over his previous four games while knocking down an incredible 25 3-pointers over that span. Backcourt mate Andrew Rowsey is close behind at 21.8 points and has also been prolific from beyond the arc, making at least three 3-pointers in each of his previous four contests. Rebounding has been a major concern for Marquette, which averages just 31.3 boards per game (32nd out of 351 Division I teams).

TIP-INS

1. Howard leads the conference in made 3-pointers per game (4.0).

2. Marquette shoots 79.7 percent from the free-throw line, tied for the sixth-best rate in the nation.

3. Northern Illinois averages just 5.9 made 3-pointers per game, ranking outside the top 300 nationally.

PREDICTION: Marquette 84, Northern Illinois 68

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Charleston Southern vs. Florida State Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

For the first time this season, Florida State has to prove that it can rebound from a loss. The 19th-ranked Seminoles suffered a tough defeat their last time out and only have 48 hours to bounce back as they host Charleston Southern on Monday.

In its last contest, Florida State led by a point with under 10 seconds left before Oklahoma State scored the decisive basket, leaving Seminoles coach Leonard Hamilton bummed but not broken. "We're in a conference where you can't get caught up in streaks, because nobody in the ACC is going to go undefeated," Hamilton said. "It doesn't happen. Tonight we played against a team that played a little better than us." Phil Cofer and Terance Mann combined for 42 points, 18 rebounds and five steals against the Cowboys, but the team was doomed by 22 turnovers. Hamilton hopes to see a sharper effort against a Buccaneers team that has lost three consecutive games.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPNU

ABOUT CHARLESTON SOUTHERN (4-5): The Buccaneers have lost their last two games by eight total points and allowed the final 10 points of the game in Friday's 70-65 setback against Eastern Kentucky. Christian Keeling (26 points) was the only player on the team to score more than 10 points in that one, and the sophomore guard is averaging 23 points over his last three contests. Keeling (17.8 points) and Travis McConico (13.1) are the only players averaging above 7.5 points for Charleston Southern, which shoots only 30.1 percent from behind the arc.

ABOUT FLORIDA STATE (9-1): The Seminoles have four double-digit scorers, including Mann (16.0) and Cofer (13.3), both of whom are having terrific seasons in different ways. Mann shoots a blistering 63.9 percent from the field - an awesome percentage for a guard - and has shot at least 50 percent in every game this season. Cofer has increased his scoring average from 2.9 to 13.3 this season and is shooting 53.7 percent from the floor, including 11-of-22 from the arc.

TIP-INS

1. Mann leads the team in rebounding (6.4), including an impressive 2.7 offensive boards per game.

2. Cofer had two steals all season before notching three against Oklahoma State.

3. Only 12 teams in the nation average more blocks than Florida State (6.2).

PREDICTION: Florida State 77, Charleston Southern 66

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Wake Forest vs. Coastal Carolina Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/18/2017

Wake Forest aims for its sixth consecutive victory when it visits Coastal Carolina on Monday. The Demon Deacons have beaten the Chanticleers each of the last two seasons and hold a 4-1 advantage in the all-time series.


The Demon Deacons lost their first three games and four of their first five, but they've won their last three by an average of 27 points. Wake Forest is playing for the first time since posting a 109-80 home victory over Army on Dec. 8. The Chanticleers nearly upset their last Power Five opponent, falling 80-78 at South Carolina on Dec. 9. Coastal Carolina bounced back for an 83-70 home triumph over NAIA opponent Montreat on Saturday.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NO TV


ABOUT WAKE FOREST (6-4): After a slow start at the offensive end, the Demon Deacons have picked it up during their five-game winning streak, shooting 54.8 percent overall and 43.7 percent from 3-point range. Guards Keyshawn Woods (16.2 points) and Bryant Crawford (15.8, 4.8 assists) lead the offense and are a combined 81-for-91 from the foul line. Wake Forest should have an advantage in the paint with 7-1 center Doral Moore (11.1 points, 7.7 rebounds), who has four inches on the Chanticleers' tallest player.

ABOUT COASTAL CAROLINA (6-5): The Chanticleers have a nice inside-outside combination in forward Zac Cuthbertson (17.5 points, eight rebounds) and guard Jaylen Shaw (16.7 points, 4.4 assists). Forward Demario Beck (11.4 points, 6.7 rebounds) has been productive off the bench, posting a double-double against Montreat. One of the team's biggest deficiencies is on the perimeter, where Coastal Carolina averages just 7.5 3-pointers but allows 8.9 per game.


TIP-INS

1. Wake Forest hasn't had a six-game winning streak since capturing seven straight during the 2009-10 season.

2. The Demon Deacons have shot 50 percent or better in five straight games - their longest streak in a single season since a six-game run in 1992-93.

3. The Chanticleers have outrebounded 10 of their 11 opponents despite having their tallest player stand at 6-9.


PREDICTION: Wake Forest 78, Coastal Carolina 75

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Charlotte vs. East Carolina Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/18/2017

Two teams that already have made coaching changes this season square off Monday, when East Carolina hosts Charlotte. The 49ers are playing their first game since coach Mark Price was fired following a four-game losing streak.


Price was let go on Thursday, four days after a 64-50 loss at Chattanooga, and assistant Houston Fancher - who has 12 years of head-coaching experience - was named the interim coach. "I'm not going to come down and sprinkle any magic dust and fix things right away, but we've got to play with more energy and get off to better starts," Fancher told the Charlotte Observer. "We've got to have better confidence and play through adversity better. I know that sounds like coach-speak, but we've got to get better with those things." The Pirates have responded well to their own coaching change, winning their first three games since Michael Perry took over after Jeff Lebo's resignation. East Carolina is playing for the first time since recording a 69-66 home win over Campbell on Dec. 4.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN3


ABOUT CHARLOTTE (3-6): The 49ers have struggled on the boards and on defense, both of which were cited as reasons for the coaching change. Opponents shoot 47.1 percent and average 77.4 points - ranking Charlotte in the bottom-fourth of NCAA Division I teams in both categories. The 49ers' biggest strength is their 3-point shooting - they rank 33rd nationally at 40.4 percent - but star guard Jon Davis (13.2 points, 5.5 assists) has seen his offensive production fall off significantly after averaging 19.6 points last season.

ABOUT EAST CAROLINA (5-4): The Pirates have played well at the defensive end - and especially on the perimeter, holding opponents to 29.4 percent from 3-point range. Their guards do much of their scoring as well, with B.J. Tyson (15.8 points) and Isaac Fleming (14.3, 4.4 assists) leading the way. Swingman Kentrell Barkley (13.2 points, 6.3 rebounds) has put up solid numbers, and freshman guard Shawn Williams is averaging 10.7 points during the three-game winning streak.


TIP-INS

1. The in-state rivals are squaring off for the fourth consecutive season, with the Pirates having won two of the last three meetings.

2. Charlotte is 3-0 when forcing more turnovers than it commits and 0-6 when having the same number or more turnovers than its opponents.

3. The Pirates are 53-for-83 from the foul line during their three-game winning streak, while their opponents are 25-for-38 over the same span.


PREDICTION: East Carolina 75, Charlotte 71

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Fort Wayne vs. Indiana Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Indiana looks to build on its first signature win of the Archie Miller era when it hosts Fort Wayne on Monday. The Hoosiers knocked off 18th-ranked Notre Dame 80-77 in overtime at the Crossroads Classic to move over .500, and they hope to win back-to-back games for the first time in three weeks by avenging a disappointing 71-68 setback to the Mastodons last season.

"I'm sure everyone will remind us about last year's game," Miller told reporters. "Fort Wayne is a really big game for us and our team as we stand right now so we have to get back to work." The Hoosiers have won four of their last five home games with their lone loss coming to No. 4 Duke during that stretch and hope to continue their winning ways at Assembly Hall by notching their first victory over a Summit League opponent in over two years. "I think we've been in the pressure cooker for about four weeks," Miller said. "You're going against Duke and you're right there but you're disappointed you weren't able to get it done." Fort Wayne ended a two-game skid with an 88-84 win against Stetson and hopes to take down a Power 5 team for the first time this season.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, Big Ten Network

ABOUT FORT WAYNE (7-5): Senior guard Bryson Scott scored 26 of his 34 points in the first half to equal a career high in the win over Stetson, and he finished in double figures for the 18th straight regular-season game. John Konchar flirted with a double-double as he added 17 points and eight rebounds while Xzavier Taylor tallied 13 points. Kason Harrell registered nine points and Jax Levitch pulled down a career-high 12 rebounds as the Mastodons won the battle of the boards 42-27 to earn their 20th straight non-conference home win.

ABOUT INDIANA (6-5): Juwan Morgan poured in a career-high 34 points, including eight in overtime, to go along with 11 rebounds to notch the third double-double of his career in the win against Notre Dame. Robert Johnson drilled five 3-pointers en route to 20 points against the Fighting Irish after being limited to a combined 15 points on 4-of-19 shooting over his previous three games. Devonte Green provided a spark off the bench as he scored 12 points and dished out three assists to help Indiana erase an eight point deficit with two minutes remaining in regulation.

TIP-INS

1. Morgan has posted two double-doubles in his last three games.

2. Johnson has registered seven 20-point games in his career.

3. Scott has scored 30 or more points in four games this season.

PREDICTION: Indiana 83, Fort Wayne 70

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Nicholls vs. Tulane Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats08:00 PM
by Gracenote on 12/18/2017

Tulane returns from an eight-day layoff looking to keep its perfect home record intact when it hosts non-conference foe Nicholls on Monday. The Green Wave are coming off a loss to Florida State on Dec. 10, while the Colonels routed Culver-Stockton College at home on Saturday.

Nicholls is a high-scoring team, averaging 90.9 points behind the 1-2 punch of Roddy Peters (19.5 points) and Tevon Saddler (16.8). Tulane is not quite as explosive offensively, coming off a 53-point effort in the loss to the Seminoles, but coach Mike Dunleavy's squad is holding opponents to 70.9 points per game. Junior guard Melvin Frazier is the Green Wave's top scorer, averaging 17.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.4 steals, although he was held to a season-low three points by Florida State - his first single-digit scoring performance of the campaign. Senior swingman Cameron Reynolds provides a solid second scoring option, averaging 16.8 points and six rebounds, while sophomore forward Samir Sehic (11.9 points, 6.9 boards) gives Dunleavy production off the bench.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, ESPN3

ABOUT NICHOLLS (5-5): While Nicholls' defense this season hasn't been the hardest to score on - it has allowed 85.5 points per contest - the team has been opportunistic on the defensive end, posting a turnover margin of plus-3.5 and averaging 11 steals. Three players - Jahvaughn Powell (2.6), Saddler (2.3) and Kevin Johnson (2.1) are averaging over two steals, which helps the Colonels get plenty of easy baskets at the other end of the floor. Nicholls recorded a season high in steals with 18 in the 41-point win over Culver-Stockton College and finished with advantages of 48-9 in points off turnovers and 32-4 in fast-break points.

ABOUT TULANE (7-3): If there's one area in which Dunleavy would like to see improvement, it's at the free-throw line, where the Green Wave are shooting just 70.3 percent. With the team's top two scorers - Frazier and Reynolds - hitting 70.7 and 74.3 percent, respectively, Dunleavy isn't sure if a late lead is going to hold up when his best players are fouled. Sophomore Colin Slater (.889) and Sehic (.809) are the only regulars hitting above 80 percent, but as the games get closer - Tulane has had just two contests decided by fewer than 10 points - the free throws will mean even more, and Dunleavy is going to want his team hitting at a better clip.

TIP-INS

1. Reynolds recorded his fifth career double-double - and first this season - with 16 points and 11 rebounds in the loss to Florida State.

2. Tulane has registered at least 20 assists in four different contests this season and is undefeated in those games.

3. While the Green Wave rank 11th in the 12-team American Athletic Conference in offensive rebounding (9.7), they are second in the league in defensive rebounding (28.5).

PREDICTION: Tulane 86, Nicholls 80

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tennessee State vs. Texas Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Not much was made of the news when Tulane sophomore Dylan Osetkowski decided to transfer to Texas, but two years later and with the Longhorns coming off an 11-22 campaign, the 6-9 forward has proven to be the most indispensable player on the team. Having helped Texas to a 7-3 start, Osetkowski will be shooting for an eighth consecutive double-digit scoring outing Monday when Tennessee State visits in a nonconference matchup.


Osetkowski, who averaged 11.4 yards as a sophomore in 2015-16 before sitting out all of last season, leads the team in rebounds (7.5) and steals (1.3) and is second in scoring (15.1 points per game) after pouring in a season-high 22 points in a 75-60 victory over Louisiana Tech on Saturday. "He's probably our most important player from the standpoint of all of the things that he does," Texas third-year coach Shaka Smart said after the game. "He's like a connective tissue for us. I think that the combination of having a high basketball IQ and being in his fourth year as a college basketball player, he's further ahead than pretty much everyone else on our team." Forward Mohamed Bamba contributed 14 points, a team-high nine rebounds and matched a career high with five blocks in just 18 foul-plagued minutes on Saturday, and fellow freshman forward Jericho Sims registered season highs in both points (nine) and rebounds (eight). "I think at the end, [Bamba] just went in and said, 'I'm going to attack and whatever happens happens,'" Smart said.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, ESPN2


ABOUT TENNESSEE STATE (5-4): The Tigers, who return two starters from a 17-win team that played both Duke and North Carolina State tough last season in nonconference play, are coming off a 64-54 defeat to North Carolina A&T on Friday despite 17 points from Delano Spencer and 15 from Ken'Darrius Hamilton. Senior guard Spencer leads the team in scoring (15.7 points per game) and junior forward Christian Mekowulu chips in 11.4 points and a team-best 9.6 rebounds. The Tigers play at a slow pace, yielding just 67 points per contest, but as a group shoot just 41.4 percent from the floor and have more turnovers (126) than assists (98).

ABOUT TEXAS (7-3): The 6-11 Bamba, considered by many as one of the top five high school recruits in the country last season, is averaging 11 points on 51.4 percent shooting, 10.0 rebounds and 4.1 blocks in 27.7 minutes per game. Andrew Jones, a 6-4 sophomore guard, leads the team in scoring (15.2 points per game) and 3-point shooting (16-of-36, 44.4 percent) and shoots 53 percent from the floor overall. Matt Coleman, another highly touted freshman prospect that Smart was hoping would solidify the point guard position, is averaging just 7.2 points on 31.9 percent shooting, including 25.8 from beyond the arc, and 3.8 assists in a team-high 31.6 minutes per game.


TIP-INS

1. Three-point shooting is a big area of concern for the Longhorns, as they shoot just 29.3 percent from that range.

2. Tennessee State played one other major-conference team in the nonconference, losing 92-56 to Kansas on Nov. 10.

3. Bamba ranks second in the nation in blocked shots behind Minnesota's Reggie Lynch (4.3).


PREDICTION: Texas 76, Tennessee State 51

[Can'tPickAWinner]

UT Arlington vs. Creighton Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

It might not have been a Big East opponent, but Creighton coach Greg McDermott was still impressed with his Bluejays' record-setting performance against Maryland-Eastern Shore during finals week. McDermott will look for another outstanding effort Monday when a solid UT Arlington team visits for another nonconference clash.


Creighton beat UMES 87-36 on Friday - the fewest points allowed by any team in the 266-game history of CenturyLink Center Omaha and the fewest points allowed by Creighton in a game at any site since Jan .13, 1986, when it allowed 35 to Illinois State. The Hawks shot 23.6 percent from the floor - the lowest mark in facility history, surpassing the previous low of 24.1 percent (14-of-58) by Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Nov. 29, 2006. "Your mind's everywhere during finals week," McDermott told reporters after the game. "I thought our focus to start the game ... that really set the tone. I don't care who you're playing - if you hold a team to 36 points on 60 possessions, you're doing some things right defensively." Arlington, which won 27 games and the Sun Belt regular-season title a season ago, has a 14-point win over BYU already this season and dropped a one-point decision to then-No. 25 Alabama back in November.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1


ABOUT TEXAS-ARLINGTON (8-3): Senior Kevin Hervey, a 6-9 forward who was the Sun Belt Player of the Year in 2016-17 (17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds), is even better in his senior season, averaging a conference-best 23.6 points and nine rebounds while leading the team with 28 3-pointers on 38 percent from the arc. Hervey scored 30 points and grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds as the Mavericks won a third straight game in Saturday's 86-65 road victory against Texas-Rio Grande Valley. Point guard Erick Neal (13.8 points, 4.1 rebounds per game), who leads the nation in assists (9.4 per game), missed Saturday's game due to personal reasons and his return is questionable.

ABOUT CREIGHTON (8-2): Five Bluejays scored in double-figures against the Hawks, led by 15 from Marcus Foster and 12 each by Khyri Thomas and Ty-Shon Alexander. Junior Kaleb Joseph, a transfer from Syracuse who hadn't played since Nov. 25 due to a hamstring injury, had four points and two assists in eight games and may be a solution for the subpar performance at the point guard position. While Foster (18.6 points, 41.5 percent from the arc) and Thomas (15.7 points, 42.2 percent, 1.4 steals) continue to shine on the wing, Davion Mintz (4.7 points, 2.7 assists) has struggled piloting the team.


TIP-INS

1. Foster has scored in double-figures in 28 straight games. Foster is the first Bluejay to start his senior season with 10 straight double-figure scoring games since Rodney Buford in 1998-99.

2. Creighton freshman C Jacob Epperson will undergo a minor surgical procedure on his knee next week and will redshirt this season.

3. Creighton's 902 points through 10 games is second-most in program history, trailing only the 915 after 10 games last season.


PREDICTION: Creighton 92, Texas-Arlington 71

[Can'tPickAWinner]

North Dakota State vs. Arizona Preview and Predictions

By Gracenote for Scores and Stats
by Gracenote on 12/17/2017

Already boasting one of the top duos in the country in Allonzo Trier and Deandre Ayton, No. 23 Arizona now has a third scoring threat for opponents to consider. Sophomore swingman Rawle Alkins has made a seamless transition from injury back into the starting lineup for the Wildcats, who look to extend their winning streak to six games Monday against visiting North Dakota State.

After playing 22 minutes off the bench in his season debut against Alabama, Alkins made his first start in Saturday's 89-73 win at New Mexico and scored a career-high 26 points on 9-of-11 shooting, including 3-of-3 from 3-point range. "Simply put, we're a much better team with him because he's one of our best players," coach Sean Miller told reporters. "If he didn't play tonight, it would have been a much different game." Alkins missed the team's first nine games due to a broken foot, but his return should result in even more opportunities for Trier and Ayton, who are averaging a combined 42.2 points and 15.2 rebounds. With Alkins back in the starting lineup, promising freshman guard Brandon Randolph returned to a reserve role Saturday and had seven points in 14 minutes.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, Pac-12 Network

ABOUT NORTH DAKOTA STATE (5-5): Senior guard Paul Miller averages a team-high 16.0 points for the Bison, who were picked to finish third in the Summit League preseason poll. Fourth-year coach David Richman's squad rolled to a 101-58 win over NAIA Valley City State last Tuesday, giving them back-to-back wins following three straight losses to Stephen F. Austin, Mississippi State and Missouri State. The team's strong frontcourt features forwards Deng Geu and Rocky Kreuser, who combined to score 35 points in Tuesday's victory.

ABOUT ARIZONA (8-3): Since losing three games in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas, the Wildcats have used impressive wins over Texas A&M, UNLV and Alabama to return to the national rankings. Miller has an enviable mix of youth and veteran experience on the roster, with senior point guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright averaging 7.8 points with a solid 55-to-17 assist-to-turnover ratio. Senior center Dusan Ristic (58.6 percent shooting) has served as a perfect complement to the 7-foot-1 Ayton, who has a team-high 15 blocks.

TIP-INS

1. Arizona has won 45 consecutive nonconference home games.

2. North Dakota State's five losses have come against opponents with a combined record of 38-10.

3. Arizona freshman G Alex Barcello missed Saturday's game due to a sprained left ankle and is listed as day-to-day.

PREDICTION: Arizona 88, North Dakota State 69

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 15

Monday, December18

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

ATLANTA (8 - 5) at TAMPA BAY (4 - 9) - 12/18/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 31-50 ATS (-24.0 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.
ATLANTA is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) as an underdog this season.
TAMPA BAY is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) against conference opponents this season.
TAMPA BAY is 23-39 ATS (-19.9 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.

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

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL

Week 15

Trend Report

Monday, December 18

ATLANTA @ TAMPA BAY
Atlanta is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games when playing Atlanta

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL

Week 15

Monday's game
Falcons (8-5) @ Buccaneers (4-9)— 8-5 Falcons won four of last five games, are game behind Saints/Panthers in NFC South- they play those teams the last two weeks. Atlanta is 4-2 on road, 2-1 as road favorites. Tampa Bay lost three in row, eight of last nine games; they’re 3-3 at home, 1-2 as home underdogs. Buccaneers haven’t led at halftime since Week 4. Atlanta (-10) beat Bucs 34-10 at home three weeks ago; Falcons converted 11-14 on 3rd down, averaged 10.2 yds/pass attempt. Tampa Bay won three of last four series games- teams split last six series games played here. Home side is 5-2 vs spread in NFC South divisional games this season. Under is 8-2 in last ten Falcon games, 4-2 in Bucs’ last six games.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL
Dunkel

Week 15

Monday, December 18

Atlanta @ Tampa Bay

Game 331-332
December 18, 2017 @ 8:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta
139.335
Tampa Bay
129.512
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Atlanta
by 10
53
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Atlanta
by 5
47 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Atlanta
(-5); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL

Monday, December 14

Monday Night Football Betting Preview and Odds: Falcons at Buccaneers

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+6.5, 49)

The Atlanta Falcons are in control of their playoff destiny and their chances to repeat as NFC South champions, but they also have a pack of teams nipping at their heels for the final postseason spot in the conference. A winner of four of its last five, Atlanta visits the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night in a rematch from three weeks ago.

The Falcons are one game behind NFC South co-leaders New Orleans and Carolina but still have to play the Saints and Panthers, giving them a chance to claim the division title by winning their final three games. “Focusing on the next team could be a little bit distracting,” Falcons linebacker De’Vondre Campbell said. “We have to focus on (Tampa Bay) because every game at this point is a must-win.” Atlanta, which currently holds the tiebreaker over Seattle for the No. 6 seed in the NFC, beat visiting Tampa Bay 34-20 on Nov. 26, but the Buccaneers were without quarterback Jameis Winston, who will be making his third start since returning from injury. Winston rallied Tampa Bay from a 14-point deficit last week before Tampa Bay lost to Detroit 24-21 in the final minute -- its third straight defeat and eighth in 10 games.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

POWER RANKINGS: Falcons (-2) - Buccaneers (5) + home field (-3) = Falcons -4.

LINE HISTORY: The Falcons opened as six-point road chalk and as of Sunday evening that number was up slightly to 6.5. The total hit the betting board at 47.5 and had been bet up as high as 49.5 before dropping to the current number of 48.

WEATHER REPORT: during the game it will drop from 71 to 67 degrees and will be mostly cloudy with 4-5 mph winds throughout - no chance of precipitation

INJURY REPORT:

Falcons - WR Mohamed Sanu (Probable, Knee), DE Adrian Clayborn (Questionable, Hamstring), G Wes Schweitzer (Questionable, Groin), G Andy Levitre (Questionable, Tricep), LB Sean Weatherspoon (Questionable, Illness), TE Eric Saubert (Questionable, Back), RB Tevin Coleman (Out, Concussion), S Quincy Mauger (I-R, Knee).

Buccaneers - S TJ Ward (Probable, Concussion), G J.R. Sweezy (Questionable, Shin), TE Cameron Brate (Questionable, Hip), OT Donovan Smith (Questionable, Shoulder), DT Clinton McDonald (Questionable, Back), CB Josh Robinson (Questionable, Hamstring), C Joe Hawley (Questionable, Illness), CB Vernon Hargreaves (Out, Hamstring), DT Gerald McCoy (Out, Bicep), LB Lavonte David (Out, Hamstring).

ABOUT THE FALCONS (8-5 SU, 6-7 ATS, 5-8 O/U): Despite surpassing 1,000 yards for the fourth consecutive year, Julio Jones was having a relatively quiet season by his lofty standards until torching Tampa Bay for 12 catches for 253 yards and a pair of touchdowns -- his second and third scores of the campaign. Jones also had eight catches for 101 yards and a score at Tampa Bay in November 2016 as quarterback Matt Ryan riddled the Buccaneers for 344 yards and four touchdowns passes. Devonta Freeman has rushed for 165 yards in two games since returning from a concussion and could be in line for a heavy workload with backup Tevin Coleman in the concussion protocol. Adrian Clayborn (hamstring), who leads the team in sacks, did not practice Thursday, but coach Dan Quinn is moving Vic Beasley back into a pure pass-rushing role.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (4-9 SU, 3-9-1 ATS, 7-6 O/U): Winston, who threw two fourth-quarter touchdowns last week to erase a 14-point deficit, enjoyed plenty of success last season against Atlanta, throwing for 542 yards with seven scores against one interception. Wideout Mike Evans has been practically invisible the past two games with a combined four catches, but he had eight receptions in last month's loss to the Falcons and lit them up for 16 catches for 249 yards and three touchdowns in both meetings last season. With Doug Martin continuing to struggle, Peyton Barber has provided a jolt to the ground game with 160 yards rushing over the past two contests. Tackle Gerald McCoy and linebacker Lavonte David missed practice, putting more pressure on a defense that surrenders a league-worst 276.1 yards passing.

TRENDS:

* Falcons are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Monday games.

* Buccaneers are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 vs. NFC.

* Over is 10-0-1 in Falcons last 11 vs. a team with a losing record.

* Over is 4-1 in Buccaneers last 5 games after accumulating more than 250 yards passing in their previous game.

CONSENSUS: The public is siding with the road chalk Falcons at a rate of 71 percent and the Over is getting 56 percent of the totals action.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Dunkel

Monday, December 18

Wake Forest @ Coastal Carolina

Game 721-722
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Wake Forest
62.873
Coastal Carolina
53.247
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Wake Forest
by 9 1/2
158
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Wake Forest
by 4 1/2
151
Dunkel Pick:
Wake Forest
(-4 1/2); Over

Northeastern @ Kent State

Game 723-724
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Northeastern
52.376
Kent State
48.974
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Northeastern
by 3 1/2
132
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Northeastern
Pick
138
Dunkel Pick:
Northeastern
Under

Northern Illinois @ Marquette

Game 725-726
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Northern Illinois
54.672
Marquette
66.512
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Marquette
by 12
163
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Marquette
by 18 1/2
152
Dunkel Pick:
Northern Illinois
(+18 1/2); Over

Charlotte @ East Carolina

Game 727-728
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Charlotte
54.895
East Carolina
54.739
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Charlotte
Even
144
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
East Carolina
by 4
149
Dunkel Pick:
Charlotte
(+4); Under

TX-Arlington @ Creighton

Game 729-730
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
TX-Arlington
58.498
Creighton
70.546
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Creighton
by 12
166
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Creighton
by 10
159 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Creighton
(-10); Over

IUPUI @ Gonzaga

Game 731-732
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
IUPUI
46.189
Gonzaga
77.673
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Gonzaga
by 31 1/2
142
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Gonzaga
by 27
148 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Gonzaga
(-27); Under

Boise State @ SMU

Game 733-734
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Boise State
60.224
SMU
66.318
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
SMU
by 6
128
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
SMU
by 7 1/2
132
Dunkel Pick:
Boise State
(+7 1/2); Under

Valparaiso @ Santa Clara

Game 735-736
December 18, 2017 @ 10:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Valparaiso
56.762
Santa Clara
54.645
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Valparaiso
by 2
137
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Santa Clara
by 1 1/2
132
Dunkel Pick:
Valparaiso
(+1 1/2); Over

NE-Omaha @ Kansas

Game 737-738
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NE-Omaha
47.342
Kansas
72.420
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas
by 25
161
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas
by 30
154
Dunkel Pick:
NE-Omaha
(+30); Over

Quinnipiac @ Drexel

Game 739-740
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Quinnipiac
43.556
Drexel
52.865
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Drexel
by 9 1/2
137
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Drexel
by 11 1/2
144
Dunkel Pick:
Quinnipiac
(+11 1/2); Under

Northern Arizona @ South Florida

Game 741-742
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Northern Arizona
37.223
South Florida
49.809
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
South Florida
by 12 1/2
128
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
South Florida
by 8 1/2
133
Dunkel Pick:
South Florida
(-8 1/2); Under

Idaho @ Western Michigan

Game 743-744
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Idaho
46.893
Western Michigan
54.348
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Western Michigan
by 7 1/2
145
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Western Michigan
by 4
139 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Western Michigan
(-4); Over

IPFW @ Indiana

Game 745-746
December 18, 2017 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
IPFW
54.557
Indiana
61.672
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Indiana
by 7
159
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indiana
by 12
151
Dunkel Pick:
IPFW
(+12); Over

Denver @ Montana State

Game 747-748
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Denver
47.892
Montana State
49.348
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Montana State
by 1 1/2
140
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Montana State
by 5 1/2
144 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Denver
(+5 1/2); Under

Tennessee St @ Texas

Game 749-750
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tennessee St
45.332
Texas
66.854
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Texas
by 21 1/2
117
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Texas
by 19 1/2
123
Dunkel Pick:
Texas
(-19 1/2); Under

North Dakota St @ Arizona

Game 751-752
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
North Dakota St
46.782
Arizona
71.823
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona
by 25
148
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona
by 21
140 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona
(-21); Over

Youngstown St @ Idaho State

Game 753-754
December 18, 2017 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Youngstown St
44.567
Idaho State
46.422
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Idaho State
by 1
169
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Idaho State
by 4 1/2
157 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Youngstown St
(+4 1/2); Over

Houston Baptist @ Michigan State

Game 755-756
December 18, 2017 @ 6:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Houston Baptist
42.319
Michigan State
72.419
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Michigan State
by 30
136
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Michigan State
by 33
No Total
Dunkel Pick:
Houston Baptist
(+30); N/A

Charleston Southern @ Florida State

Game 757-758
December 18, 2017 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Charleston Southe
38.204
Florida State
72.769
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Florida State
by 34 1/2
152
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Florida State
by 28 1/2
No Total
Dunkel Pick:
Florida State
(-28 1/2); N/A

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Monday, December 18

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


WAKE FOREST (6 - 4) at COASTAL CAROLINA (6 - 5) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WAKE FOREST is 107-146 ATS (-53.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.


Head-to-Head Series History
COASTAL CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus WAKE FOREST over the last 3 seasons
WAKE FOREST is 2-0 straight up against COASTAL CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons




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


NORTHEASTERN (6 - 4) at KENT ST (5 - 5) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KENT ST is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) in a home game where the total is 135 to 139.5 since 1997.


Head-to-Head Series History
KENT ST is 1-0 against the spread versus NORTHEASTERN over the last 3 seasons
NORTHEASTERN is 1-0 straight up against KENT ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons




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


N ILLINOIS (5 - 4) at MARQUETTE (7 - 3) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N ILLINOIS is 87-54 ATS (+27.6 Units) in road 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.




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


CHARLOTTE (3 - 6) at E CAROLINA (5 - 4) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHARLOTTE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in all games this season.
CHARLOTTE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
CHARLOTTE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) as an underdog this season.
CHARLOTTE is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
CHARLOTTE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in non-conference games this season.
CHARLOTTE is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997.


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




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


TX-ARLINGTON (8 - 3) at CREIGHTON (8 - 2) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CREIGHTON is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all home games over the last 3 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
CREIGHTON is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
TX-ARLINGTON is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
TX-ARLINGTON is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in December games since 1997.
TX-ARLINGTON is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
TX-ARLINGTON is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.


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




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


IUPUI (2 - 7) at GONZAGA (9 - 2) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GONZAGA is 27-15 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 27-15 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 27-12 ATS (+13.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
GONZAGA is 147-106 ATS (+30.4 Units) when playing with one or less days rest since 1997.
IUPUI is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.


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




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


BOISE ST (10 - 1) at SMU (8 - 3) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SMU is 25-10 ATS (+14.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 25-10 ATS (+14.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 23-7 ATS (+15.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 13-2 ATS (+10.8 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 13-2 ATS (+10.8 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 22-9 ATS (+12.1 Units) in a home game where the total is 130 to 134.5 since 1997.
SMU is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in home games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
SMU is 19-6 ATS (+12.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.


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




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


VALPARAISO (8 - 3) at SANTA CLARA (3 - 7) - 12/18/2017, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SANTA CLARA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.


Head-to-Head Series History
SANTA CLARA is 1-0 against the spread versus VALPARAISO over the last 3 seasons
SANTA CLARA is 1-0 straight up against VALPARAISO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons




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


NEBRASKA-OMAHA (2 - 10) at KANSAS (8 - 2) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.


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




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


QUINNIPIAC (3 - 7) at DREXEL (5 - 6) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.


Head-to-Head Series History
DREXEL is 1-0 against the spread versus QUINNIPIAC over the last 3 seasons
DREXEL is 1-0 straight up against QUINNIPIAC over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons




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


N ARIZONA (2 - 9) at S FLORIDA (5 - 6) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N ARIZONA is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.


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




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


IDAHO (7 - 3) at W MICHIGAN (6 - 4) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
W MICHIGAN is 57-81 ATS (-32.1 Units) when the total is 130 to 139.5 since 1997.


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




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


IUPU-FT WAYNE (7 - 5) at INDIANA (6 - 5) - 12/18/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 3-17 ATS (-15.7 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 3-17 ATS (-15.7 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in road games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 0-9 ATS (-9.9 Units) in road games after allowing 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 2-13 ATS (-12.3 Units) in road games after scoring 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a home favorite of 9.5 to 12 points over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 77-54 ATS (+17.6 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1997.
INDIANA is 39-21 ATS (+15.9 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game since 1997.
IUPU-FT WAYNE is 67-40 ATS (+23.0 Units) as an underdog since 1997.


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




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


DENVER (5 - 7) at MONTANA ST (6 - 5) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 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.
MONTANA ST is 28-56 ATS (-33.6 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 since 1997.
MONTANA ST is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) after allowing 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.


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




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


TENNESSEE ST (5 - 4) at TEXAS (7 - 3) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE ST is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) as a road underdog of 18.5 to 24 points since 1997.
TENNESSEE ST is 141-105 ATS (+25.5 Units) in road games since 1997.
TENNESSEE ST is 141-105 ATS (+25.5 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
TENNESSEE ST is 33-18 ATS (+13.2 Units) in road games after scoring 60 points or less since 1997.


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




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


N DAKOTA ST (5 - 5) at ARIZONA (8 - 3) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N DAKOTA ST is 22-38 ATS (-19.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 22-38 ATS (-19.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) in road lined games over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in road games after allowing 60 points or less over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
N DAKOTA ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.


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




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


YOUNGSTOWN ST (2 - 8) at IDAHO ST (3 - 5) - 12/18/2017, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
YOUNGSTOWN ST is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
YOUNGSTOWN ST is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
YOUNGSTOWN ST is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
YOUNGSTOWN ST is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) after allowing 80 points or more since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 9-21 ATS (-14.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
IDAHO ST is 9-21 ATS (-14.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
IDAHO ST is 37-62 ATS (-31.2 Units) as a favorite since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 33-52 ATS (-24.2 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.


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




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


HOUSTN BAPTIST (4 - 7) at MICHIGAN ST (10 - 1) - 12/18/2017, 6:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN ST is 38-21 ATS (+14.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN ST is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) in all home games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN ST is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN ST is 59-35 ATS (+20.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.


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




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


CHARLESTON SO (4 - 5) at FLORIDA ST (9 - 1) - 12/18/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA ST is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.


Head-to-Head Series History
FLORIDA ST is 2-0 straight up against CHARLESTON SO over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Monday, December 18

Trend Report

COASTAL GEORGIA @ USC UPSTATE
COASTAL GEORGIA

No trends to report
USC UPSTATE

No trends to report
HOUSTON BAPTIST @ MICHIGAN STATE
HOUSTON BAPTIST

No trends to report
MICHIGAN STATE

Michigan State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Michigan State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
WAKE FOREST @ COASTAL CAROLINA
WAKE FOREST

Wake Forest is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Wake Forest's last 11 games on the road
COASTAL CAROLINA

No trends to report
NORTHERN ARIZONA @ SOUTH FLORIDA
NORTHERN ARIZONA

Northern Arizona is 2-10 SU in its last 12 games
Northern Arizona is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
SOUTH FLORIDA

South Florida is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games at home
South Florida is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
CHARLESTON SOUTHERN @ FLORIDA STATE
CHARLESTON SOUTHERN

No trends to report
FLORIDA STATE

Florida State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Charleston Southern
Florida State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Charleston Southern
CHARLOTTE @ EAST CAROLINA
CHARLOTTE

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Charlotte's last 5 games on the road
Charlotte is 13-4 SU in its last 17 games when playing East Carolina
EAST CAROLINA

East Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Charlotte
East Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
NORTHEASTERN @ KENT STATE
NORTHEASTERN

Northeastern is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Northeastern is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
KENT STATE

Kent State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Kent State is 14-7 SU in its last 21 games
IDAHO @ WESTERN MICHIGAN
IDAHO

Idaho is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Idaho is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
WESTERN MICHIGAN

Western Michigan is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Western Michigan is 19-5 SU in its last 24 games at home
QUINNIPIAC @ DREXEL
QUINNIPIAC

Quinnipiac is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games
Quinnipiac is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
DREXEL

Drexel is 6-16 SU in its last 22 games
MOUNT ST. MARY'S @ AMERICAN
MOUNT ST. MARY'S

No trends to report
AMERICAN

No trends to report
BETHANY-WV @ ST. FRANCIS-PENNSYLVANIA
BETHANY-WV

No trends to report
ST. FRANCIS-PENNSYLVANIA

No trends to report
SUSQUEHANNA @ LAFAYETTE
SUSQUEHANNA

No trends to report
LAFAYETTE

No trends to report
NORTHERN ILLINOIS @ MARQUETTE
NORTHERN ILLINOIS

Northern Illinois is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Northern Illinois is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games
MARQUETTE

Marquette is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Marquette is 17-6 SU in its last 23 games at home
NEBRASKA-OMAHA @ KANSAS
NEBRASKA-OMAHA

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Nebraska-Omaha's last 5 games on the road
Nebraska-Omaha is 3-11 SU in its last 14 games
KANSAS

The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Kansas's last 6 games
Kansas is 19-4 SU in its last 23 games
OZARKS @ ARKANSAS-LITTLE ROCK
OZARKS

No trends to report
ARKANSAS-LITTLE ROCK

Arkansas-Little Rock is 2-11 SU in its last 13 games
IPFW @ INDIANA
IPFW

The total has gone OVER in 4 of IPFW's last 5 games on the road
IPFW is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
INDIANA

Indiana is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
NORFOLK STATE @ EASTERN KENTUCKY
NORFOLK STATE

No trends to report
EASTERN KENTUCKY

Eastern Kentucky is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
NICHOLLS STATE @ TULANE
NICHOLLS STATE

No trends to report
TULANE

Tulane is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Nicholls State
Tulane is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
MILLSAPS @ LOUISIANA-MONROE
MILLSAPS

No trends to report
LOUISIANA-MONROE

Louisiana-Monroe is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Louisiana-Monroe is 7-18 SU in its last 25 games
ROCKFORD @ WISCONSIN-GREEN BAY
ROCKFORD

No trends to report
WISCONSIN-GREEN BAY

Wisconsin-Green Bay is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Wisconsin-Green Bay is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
HOWARD @ JACKSONVILLE STATE
HOWARD

No trends to report
JACKSONVILLE STATE

Jacksonville State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Jacksonville State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
ASBURY @ SAMFORD
ASBURY

No trends to report
SAMFORD

Samford is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
Samford is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games
OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE STATE @ NEW ORLEANS
OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE STATE

No trends to report
NEW ORLEANS

No trends to report
BLUE MOUNTAIN @ ALCORN STATE
BLUE MOUNTAIN

No trends to report
ALCORN STATE

No trends to report
TEXAS-ARLINGTON @ CREIGHTON
TEXAS-ARLINGTON

Texas-Arlington is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games
Texas-Arlington is 15-6 SU in its last 21 games on the road
CREIGHTON

Creighton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Creighton is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
TENNESSEE STATE @ TEXAS
TENNESSEE STATE

Tennessee State is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Tennessee State is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
TEXAS

Texas is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home
Texas is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games
TEXAS SOUTHERN @ TCU
TEXAS SOUTHERN

No trends to report
TCU

TCU is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of TCU's last 5 games
BOISE STATE @ SOUTHERN METHODIST
BOISE STATE

Boise State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Boise State's last 5 games on the road
SOUTHERN METHODIST

Southern Methodist is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games at home
Southern Methodist is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games
NORTH DAKOTA STATE @ ARIZONA
NORTH DAKOTA STATE

North Dakota State is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
ARIZONA

Arizona is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Arizona is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games at home
YOUNGSTOWN STATE @ IDAHO STATE
YOUNGSTOWN STATE

The total has gone OVER in 10 of Youngstown State's last 14 games on the road
Youngstown State is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
IDAHO STATE

Idaho State is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
Idaho State is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games
DENVER @ MONTANA STATE
DENVER

Denver is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games
Denver is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
MONTANA STATE

Montana State is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
IUPUI @ GONZAGA
IUPUI

The total has gone UNDER in 6 of IUPUI's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of IUPUI's last 6 games
GONZAGA

Gonzaga is 16-1 SU in its last 17 games at home
Gonzaga is 17-3 SU in its last 20 games
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE @ GRAND CANYON
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

No trends to report
GRAND CANYON

Grand Canyon is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games at home
Grand Canyon is 14-3 SU in its last 17 games
CAL STATE-MONTEREY BAY @ FRESNO STATE
CAL STATE-MONTEREY BAY

No trends to report
FRESNO STATE

Fresno State is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Fresno State is 20-3 SU in its last 23 games at home
VALPARAISO @ SANTA CLARA
VALPARAISO

The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Valparaiso's last 5 games
Valparaiso is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
SANTA CLARA

Santa Clara is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
Santa Clara is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Monday, December 18

Wake Forest beat Coastal Carolina last two years by 6-12 points; Deacons won their last five games after a 1-4 start; they won by 23 at Charlotte in inly true road game, then the 49ers fired their coach. Wake is #212 experience team that is playing #260 pace- they’re 3-4 vs teams in top 200. Coastal is 3-5 vs schedule #147- they also have three non-DI wins. Chanticleers lost by 13 to Vermont, by 2 to South Carolina in their only top 100 games this season. ACC road favorites are 8-2 vs spread; Sun Belt underdogs are 23-20, 1-0 at home.

Northeastern edged Kent State 73-70 at home LY, after trailing by 17 early in second half; Kent lost five of last seven games overall- they’re 0-4 vs top 200 teams, wth all four losses by 9+ points. Best team Flashes have beaten is #281 Cleveland St. Northeastern won its last four games, allowing 64.5 ppg; they’re 2-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, winning by 6-18 points. Huskies are #258 experience team that is turning ball over 20.1% of the time. CAA favorites are 4-7 vs spread away from home; MAC home underdogs are 6-3.

Marquette hasn’t played in nine days; they won four of last five games. Eagles are 3-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, winning by 21-3-26 points. Marquette is #299 experience team that is shooting 40.1% on arc and had #14 eFG% in country. Northern Illinois is 4-4 vs schedule #333; they lost 94-80 at Iowa State in their only top 100 game, lost by 13 points to both Milwaukee, Penn in their other top 200 games. Huskies haven’t played in nine days either. Big East home favorites are 19-12 vs spread; MAC road underdogs are 11-12.

Home team won East Carolina/Charlotte games last two years; these teams have already fired their coaches- it is December 18. Charlotte lost 88-74 here two years ago. ECU is 5-4 against schedule #249, winning last three games, by 5-6-3 points. Pirates don’t shoot well (30.1% on arc, 64.1% on foul line); 49ers lost their last four games, with two losses to teams ranked outside top 200. Charlotte are #236 experience team that is turning ball over 21% of time- they haven’t played in 8 days. AAC home favorites are 11-14 vs spread; C-USA road underdogs are 17-11.

Tex-Arlington is 8-3 vs schedule #195; they’re #1 experience team in country. Mavericks are 1-2 vs top 100 teams, losing by 1 at Alabama, 4 at Northern Iowa- they won at BYU. UTA forces a turnover 21.7% of time, playing pace #54. Creighton is 8-2 vs schedule #210; they’re shooting 62.1% inside arc (#2 in country), playing pace #33. Bluejays are 3-2 vs top 100 teams, with wins by 4-11-10 points. Arlington is 3-2 in true road games; their three losses this season are by 1-4-7 points. Big East home favorites are 19-12 vs spread; Sun Belt road underdogs are 16-17.

SMU was 1-11 on arc, 11-22 on foul line in 71-62 loss at Boise State LY. SMU is 8-3 vs schedule #248; they force turnovers 25.1% of time. Mustangs are shooting 41.4% on arc- they’re 2-3 vs top 100 teams, beating Arizona/USC. SMU is #279 experience team whose bench plays 12th-least minutes in country. Boise State is 11-1 vs schedule #270; their only loss was to Iowa State by 11. Broncos won by 3 at Oregon on a half-court buzzer-beater in their only true road game. AAC home favorites are 11-14 vs spread; Mountain West road underdogs are 8-13.

Santa Clara lost seven of its last nine games, with a loss to a D-II team; Broncos are 0-4 vs top 200 teams, with losses by 30-10-3-23 points. Santa Clara’s best win is over #334 Northern Arizona- teams are shooting 44.8% on arc against them. Valparaiso lost its last three games after an 8-0 start, with two losses by 30+ points; Crusaders are 5-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, with all five wins by 9+ points. Valpo is turning ball over 22.1% of time. WCC home favorites are 10-17 vs spread; MVC road underdogs are 10-14.

Drexel lost 63-60 at Temple Saturday- their bench played total of 11 minutes- three starters played the whole 40:00. Dragons are 4-6; they don’t force lot of turnovers because they can’t get in foul trouble- their bench has played #326 minutes in country. Quinnipiac hasn’t played in 11 days; they’re 3-7 vs schedule #300. Bobcats are 1-3 in true road games, with losses by 12-21-2 points and an 89-87 win at Columbia. Drexel made 10-21 on arc in 91-74 win at Quinnipiac LY. CAA home favorites are 5-3 vs spread; MAAC road underdogs are 14-15.

South Florida lost four of last five games, is 5-6 vs schedule #344; Bulls are turning ball over 21.4% of time playing tempo #346. USF is 5-2 vs teams ranked outside top 200; their best win is over #247 FAU. NAU is 1-9 vs schedule #27; they also lost to an NAIA team. Lumberjacks turn ball over 26.4% of time, shoot only 29.9% on arc. NAU is 0-5 in true road games, with all five losses by 22+ points. AAC home favorites are 11-14 vs spread; Big Sky road underdogs are 22-17.

Western Michigan won three of last four games; they’re 4-4 vs schedule #128. Broncos haven’t played in nine days; they’re 2-4 vs top 200 teams, with best win was over #182 Appalachian State by 19 on a neutral floor. Idaho is 1-2 in true road games, with losses by 11-24 points; they are #4 experience team that still turns ball over 21.5% of time, but they’re shooting 41.3% on arc. Vandals’ best win is a 91-64 win over #181 Washington State. MAC home favorites are 13-15 vs spread; Big Sky road underdogs are 22-17.

Indiana visited Fort Wayne LY and lost 71-68 in OT, in an arena mostly filled by Indiana fans. Hoosiers beat Notre Dame in OT Saturday, using three guys 36:00+- they’re 6-5 vs schedule #52. This is Indiana’s first game since Nov 24 vs team outside the top 80. Ft Wayne is 5-5 vs schedule #294; they lost by 19 at Kentucky in their only top 100 game so far. Mastodons force turnovers 21.9% of time while playing pace #28. Big 14 home favorites are 28-21 vs spread; Summit League road dogs are 14-19.

Montana State hasn’t played in nine days since 91-69 home loss to UCSB; Bobcats are 4-5 vs schedule #131- 3-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, winning by 9-10-6 points. State is #64 experience team whose bench plays #38 minutes. Denver is 0-4 in true road games, scoring 64.5 ppg, losing by 27-8-20-13 points; Pioneers are 3-2 vs teams ranked outside top 200- their best win was by 10 over Wyoming. Big Sky home favorites are 8-2 vs spread; Summit League road underdogs are 14-19.

Idaho State is 1-5 vs D-I teams, with only win vs #336 Northridge; Bengals haven’’t played in nine days- they’re shooting only 32.4% on arc. Teams are shooting 56.6% inside arc vs ISU. Youngstown State lost its last six games; they’re 0-3 in true road games, losing by 20-16-28 points. Penguins are #277 experience team that is turning ball over 21.1% of time, and is shooting only 55.7% on foul line. Big Sky home favorites are 8-2 vs spread; Horizon League road underdogs are 11-19.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Dunkel

Monday, December 18

New York @ Charlotte

Game 701-702
December 18, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New York
118.762
Charlotte
116.599
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New York
by 2
200
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New York
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
New York
N/A

Boston @ Indiana

Game 703-704
December 18, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Boston
122.204
Indiana
123.785
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Indiana
by 1 1/2
210
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
by 3
206
Dunkel Pick:
Indiana
(+3); Over

Miami @ Atlanta

Game 705-706
December 18, 2017 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Miami
119.872
Atlanta
112.498
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 7 1/2
208
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
by 2 1/2
201 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(-2 1/2); Over

Philadelphia @ Chicago

Game 707-708
December 18, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia
120.905
Chicago
113.512
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 7 1/2
203
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
by 1 1/2
209 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(-1 1/2); Under

Denver @ Oklahoma City

Game 709-710
December 18, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Denver
120.498
Oklahoma City
119.017
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Denver
by 1 1/2
198
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Denver
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Denver
N/A

Utah @ Houston

Game 711-712
December 18, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Utah
122.446
Houston
128.512
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 6
224
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
N/A

Portland @ Minnesota

Game 713-714
December 18, 2017 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Portland
115.398
Minnesota
123.896
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 8 1/2
218
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
N/A

Phoenix @ Dallas

Game 715-716
December 18, 2017 @ 8:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Phoenix
110.786
Dallas
119.673
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Dallas
by 9
203
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Dallas
by 6
208 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Dallas
(-6); Under

LA Clippers @ San Antonio

Game 717-718
December 18, 2017 @ 8:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Clippers
115.677
San Antonio
122.564
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Antonio
by 7
209
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Antonio
by 11 1/2
202 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
LA Clippers
(+11 1/2); Over

Golden State @ LA Lakers

Game 719-720
December 18, 2017 @ 10:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Golden State
124.566
LA Lakers
120.416
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Golden State
by 4
209
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Golden State
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Golden State
N/A

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Monday, December 18

Home side won eight of last nine Knick-Hornet games; New York covered three of last four games in Charlotte. Last five series games went over the total. New York won its last four games, is 2-8 vs spread on road, 0-2 as a favorite. Knicks’ last five games went over the total. Charlotte lost 10 of last 12 games; they’re 8-6 vs spread at home, 1-3 as an underdog. Under is 7-2 in Hornets’ last nine games.

Celtics won their last four games with Indiana; they’re 4-2 vs spread in last six visits here. Last three series games went over the total. Boston split its last six games; they’re 7-3 vs spread as road favorites. Over is 11-4-1 in their last 16 games. Pacers won five of their last seven games; they’re 3-3 vs spread as home underdogs. Five of their last six games stayed under the total.

Miami won six of last eight games with the Hawks; they covered their last four games in this building. Eight of their last ten games stayed under the total. Miami won four of its last five games; they’re 2-3 as road favorites. Heat’s last five games went under the total. Atlanta lost eight of its last ten games; they’re 4-6 as home underdogs. Four of their last six games went over the total.

76ers lost nine of last ten games with Chicago; they’re 2-3 vs spread in last five visits to the Windy City. Eight of last ten series games went over total. 76ers lost five of their last six games; they’re 2-1 as road favorites. Last three Philly games went over the total. Chicago won its last five games, covered its last six; they’re 6-2 vs spread in last eight tries as a home underdog. Four of Bulls’ last five games went over total.

Nuggets won last two games with the Thunder after losing previous eight; 2-3 vs spread in last five visits here. Last three series games stayed under total. Denver is 3-4 in its last seven games; they’re 3-5-1 as road underdogs. Five of their last seven games went over the total. Oklahoma City won six of its last nine games; they’re 0-5-1 vs spread in last six games as a home favorite. Four of their last five games went over.

Houston is 6-4 in its last ten games with Utah; over is 7-1 in last eight series games. Jazz is 2-4 vs spread in last six visits here. Utah lost five of last six games and now Goobers is hurt; they’re 4-2 in last six games as a road underdog. Four of last five Jazz games went over the total. Houston won its last 13 games; they are 6-7 as home favorites. Five of their last six games went over total.

Portland won seven of its last nine games with Minnesota; they’re 4-0 vs spread in last four trips to Twin Cities. Under is 5-1 in last six series games. Portland won its last three games, by 7-7-2 points; they’re 4-2-1 as road underdogs. Seven of their last nine games stayed under total. Minnesota is 7-8 in its last 15 games; they’re 1-8 vs spread in last nine games as a home favorite. Six of their last nine games went over.

Suns won three of last four games with Dallas; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits here. Four of last six series stayed under the total. Phoenix lost five of its last six games; they’re 5-2 vs spread in last seven games as a road dog. Four of their last five games stayed under the total. Dallas lost five of its last six games; they’re 3-3 as home favorites. Six of their last eight games stayed under the total.

Clippers are 6-4 in their last ten games with the Spurs; they’re 3-3 vs spread in last six visits to the Alamo. Over is 5-5 in last ten series games. Clippers lost six of their last nine games; they covered last five games, are 5-6 vs spread as road underdogs. LA’s last four games stayed under the total. San Antonio won five of its last seven games; they’re 8-6 as home favorites. Three of their last four games stayed under.

Lakers lost their last four games with Golden State; Warriors are 1-3 vs spread in last four visits here. Seven of their last nine games stayed under the total. Golden State won its last eight games; they’re 8-8 as road favorites. Warriors’ last four games all stayed under the total. Lakers lost seven of their last nine games; they’re 5-6 vs spread as home underdogs. Four of their last six games stayed under.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Monday, December 18

Trend Report

BOSTON @ INDIANA
Boston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Indiana
Boston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Indiana's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 5 games at home

NEW YORK @ CHARLOTTE
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games when playing Charlotte
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games
Charlotte is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New York
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Charlotte's last 5 games when playing New York

MIAMI @ ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Miami's last 9 games on the road
Atlanta is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Atlanta's last 11 games when playing Miami

PHILADELPHIA @ CHICAGO
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Philadelphia's last 11 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
Chicago is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games

DENVER @ OKLAHOMA CITY
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Denver's last 12 games when playing Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Denver
Oklahoma City is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games when playing Denver

UTAH @ HOUSTON
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah's last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah's last 6 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Utah
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

PORTLAND @ MINNESOTA
Portland is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Portland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing Portland
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Minnesota's last 11 games when playing at home against Portland

PHOENIX @ DALLAS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Phoenix's last 5 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Phoenix's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Dallas's last 6 games
Dallas is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home

LA CLIPPERS @ SAN ANTONIO
LA Clippers is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Clippers's last 6 games on the road
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
San Antonio is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games

GOLDEN STATE @ LA LAKERS
Golden State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Golden State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Lakers's last 5 games when playing at home against Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of LA Lakers's last 9 games when playing Golden State

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Long Sheet

Monday, December 18

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

NEW YORK (16 - 13) at CHARLOTTE (10 - 19) - 12/18/2017, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 6-2 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
CHARLOTTE is 4-4 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

BOSTON (25 - 7) at INDIANA (17 - 13) - 12/18/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 57-39 ATS (+14.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in all games this season.
BOSTON is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in road games this season.
BOSTON is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in the first half of the season this season.
BOSTON is 15-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games against Central division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BOSTON is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.

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

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MIAMI (15 - 14) at ATLANTA (6 - 23) - 12/18/2017, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 34-22 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 30-17 ATS (+11.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in home games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 7-1 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 6-3 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
7 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PHILADELPHIA (14 - 14) at CHICAGO (8 - 20) - 12/18/2017, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 65-44 ATS (+16.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 30-14 ATS (+14.6 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 32-20 ATS (+10.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 271-324 ATS (-85.4 Units) in the first half of the season since 1996.
CHICAGO is 63-97 ATS (-43.7 Units) in home games off an upset win as an underdog since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 6-2 against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 7-1 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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DENVER (16 - 13) at OKLAHOMA CITY (14 - 15) - 12/18/2017, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 183-140 ATS (+29.0 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-19 ATS (-13.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in the first half of the season this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 27-44 ATS (-21.4 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 5-4 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-2 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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UTAH (14 - 16) at HOUSTON (24 - 4) - 12/18/2017, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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PORTLAND (16 - 13) at MINNESOTA (17 - 13) - 12/18/2017, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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PHOENIX (10 - 21) at DALLAS (8 - 22) - 12/18/2017, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 34-52 ATS (-23.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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LA CLIPPERS (11 - 17) at SAN ANTONIO (20 - 10) - 12/18/2017, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 90-121 ATS (-43.1 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 1018-893 ATS (+35.7 Units) in all games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 815-695 ATS (+50.5 Units) as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 520-435 ATS (+41.5 Units) in home games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 57-37 ATS (+16.3 Units) in the first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 413-332 ATS (+47.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.

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

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GOLDEN STATE (23 - 6) at LA LAKERS (10 - 17) - 12/18/2017, 10:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL
Dunkel

Monday, December 18

Anaheim @ New Jersey

Game 1-2
December 18, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Anaheim
10.212
New Jersey
12.332
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New Jersey
by 2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New Jersey
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
New Jersey
N/A

Los Angeles @ Philadelphia

Game 3-4
December 18, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Los Angeles
10.908
Philadelphia
11.785
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 1
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
-120
5 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(-120); Under

Columbus @ Boston

Game 5-6
December 18, 2017 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Columbus
11.734
Boston
10.319
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Columbus
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
-130
5 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Columbus
(+110); Under

Pittsburgh @ Colorado

Game 7-8
December 18, 2017 @ 9:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
10.202
Colorado
11.342
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
-165
6
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado
(+145); Over

San Jose @ Edmonton

Game 9-10
December 18, 2017 @ 9:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Jose
9.988
Edmonton
11.847
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 2
4
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
-130
5 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Edmonton
(-130); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL

Monday, December 18

Trend Report

COLUMBUS @ BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Columbus's last 5 games when playing Boston
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Columbus's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing Columbus
Boston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Columbus

ANAHEIM @ NEW JERSEY
Anaheim is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Anaheim's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of New Jersey's last 8 games when playing at home against Anaheim
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Jersey's last 5 games

LOS ANGELES @ PHILADELPHIA
Los Angeles is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 6 games
Philadelphia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games at home

PITTSBURGH @ COLORADO
Pittsburgh is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Colorado is 15-4 ATS in its last 19 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Colorado's last 8 games

SAN JOSE @ EDMONTON
San Jose is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of San Jose's last 12 games on the road
Edmonton is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Edmonton is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Jose

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL
Long Sheet

Monday, December 18

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ANAHEIM (14-11-0-8, 36 pts.) at NEW JERSEY (18-9-0-5, 41 pts.) - 12/18/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 18-14 ATS (+36.4 Units) in all games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 18-14 ATS (+35.9 Units) first half of the season this season.
ANAHEIM is 238-188 ATS (+34.4 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
ANAHEIM is 426-429 ATS (+882.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.
NEW JERSEY is 5-14 ATS (-9.5 Units) in home games after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ANAHEIM is 3-1 (+1.9 Units) against the spread versus NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
ANAHEIM is 3-1-0 straight up against NEW JERSEY over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.0 Units)

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LOS ANGELES (20-10-0-4, 44 pts.) at PHILADELPHIA (14-11-0-7, 35 pts.) - 12/18/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 195-235 ATS (-76.0 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
PHILADELPHIA is 15-6 ATS (+7.3 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in home games after a 3 game unbeaten streak over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 18-31 ATS (+49.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 3-8 ATS (-7.9 Units) in home games in non-conference games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LOS ANGELES is 4-1 (+2.6 Units) against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
LOS ANGELES is 4-1-0 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.2 Units)

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COLUMBUS (20-12-0-1, 41 pts.) at BOSTON (15-10-0-5, 35 pts.) - 12/18/2017, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
COLUMBUS is 18-4 ATS (+13.2 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 46-22 ATS (+22.8 Units) first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 23-25 ATS (-10.7 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 3-11 ATS (-11.1 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
BOSTON is 22-33 ATS (-20.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 4-3 (+0.7 Units) against the spread versus COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 4-3-0 straight up against COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+3.0 Units)

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PITTSBURGH (17-14-0-3, 37 pts.) at COLORADO (15-15-0-2, 32 pts.) - 12/18/2017, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 9-20 ATS (-13.2 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 6-11 ATS (-10.2 Units) in non-conference games this season.
COLORADO is 235-202 ATS (-28.0 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
COLORADO is 1-11 ATS (+12.7 Units) in home games in December games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 122-130 ATS (-93.2 Units) in home games after allowing 4 goals or more since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLORADO is 2-3 (+0.3 Units) against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 3-2-0 straight up against COLORADO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.6 Units)

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SAN JOSE (17-10-0-4, 38 pts.) at EDMONTON (14-17-0-2, 30 pts.) - 12/18/2017, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN JOSE is 408-324 ATS (-116.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
SAN JOSE is 91-66 ATS (+21.5 Units) in road games when playing with 2 days rest since 1996.
EDMONTON is 5-10 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games first half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 9-6 (+4.1 Units) against the spread versus SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 9-6-0 straight up against SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
6 of 11 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.5 Units)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL Betting Cheat Sheet and Odds: Senators turning things around?
Monty Andrews

The Senators dominated the Centennial Classic outdoor game at Lansdowne Park, blanking the Montreal Canadiens 3-0 for their first shutout victory in more than two months.

We Meet Again

The Edmonton Oilers had little trouble with the San Jose Sharks when they met in last year's Stanley Cup playoffs. They'll face off Monday in Edmonton for the first time since the Oilers ousted the Sharks in six games in the first round of the postseason. The Oilers have won seven of the previous nine meetings overall, putting them squarely in the driver's seat as they look to save what has been a dismal season so far. Edmonton came into the season as the favorite to come out of the Western Conference, but has since slipped all the way down to +4,000 on Bet365 to win its first championship since 1990.

Turning Things Around?

Could the Ottawa Senators finally be headed in the right direction after a month-long stretch of dismal play? Fans and bettors alike will have a much better idea after Tuesday night, when the Senators seek their third consecutive victory against visiting Minnesota. The Senators dominated the Centennial Classic outdoor game at Lansdowne Park, blanking the Montreal Canadiens 3-0 for their first shutout victory in more than two months. Ottawa had lost 12 of 13 prior to its mini-win streak, and will need to string a few more victories together it it hopes to improve its +3,500 odds of winning the competitive Atlantic Division.

No Rest Needed

The Detroit Red Wings are fighting to remain playoff relevant as we approach the holiday break, but might find themselves enjoying a unique advantage as they visit Philadelphia on Wednesday in the conclusion of a road back-to-back. The odds certainly won't be in Detroit's favor in this one, but the Red Wings have actually performed well in similar situations, earning five of a possible six points on zero days rest. But the Flyers have the momentum in the head-to-head series, having won five of the last seven encounters. The road team has prevailed in each of the last two meetings.

Injury News

* The Anaheim Ducks could be facing a long stretch without winger Corey Perry, who is considered week-to-week with a lower-body injury. The Ducks will miss him greatly, having gone 9-0-5 SU in 14 games in which Perry has recorded at least one point.

* Roberto Luongo's injury-plagued season continues, as the Florida Panthers netminder was placed on injured reserve last week with a lower-body injury. The Panthers are 6-7-2 SU and 7-8 O/U in Luongo's 15 appearances so far this season.

* The San Jose Sharks will be without Logan Couture against Edmonton after he suffered a concussion over the weekend. The Sharks will miss having Couture's offense in the lineup - they're 8-2-0 SU in games in which the talented forward scores.

Player Notes

* Don't look now, but the New York Islanders have yet another offensive hero - and this month, it's Anders Lee. The veteran forward has seven goals in nine December games; despite his surge, the Isles come into the week just 3-5-1 for the month.

* Tampa Bay superstar Nikita Kucherov's road scoring prowess will be put to the test this week. Kucherov leads the NHL in road points with 25, but he will be in tough this Tuesday against a host Golden Knights team that is a red-hot 12-2-1 in Las Vegas.

* Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford has been terrific in December, going 5-0-0 with a 1.37 goals-against average for the month. Chicago has been a strong under play over that span, going 1-4 O/U during Crawford's hot streak.

Stanley Cup Futures

* Last year's Stanley Cup final participants come into this week with identical odds to make it a rematch in 2018. Both the defending-champion Pittsburgh Penguins and the Western Conference-champion Nashville Predators are listed at +1,400 on Bet365 to reach the Stanley Cup final yet again.

* We're well over two months into the 2017-18 campaign, and the expansion Golden Knights are still very much in the Stanley Cup mix - at least from an odds perspective. Oddsmakers at Bet365 have installed Vegas at +2,200 to become the first team in NHL history to win the title as an expansion franchise.

* Can the Blackhawks recapture some of their magic from earlier this decade? They're facing long odds to do so, coming into the week at +2,800 to win the Stanley Cup for the fourth time since 2010. They're also +1,000 longshots to claim the Central Division, and +1,400 to represent the Western Conference in the final.

Over/Under Trends

* The New York Rangers have been one of the top over plays in the league this season at 20-12-1 O/U, but some of the sheen might be wearing off that trend. The Rangers enter the week having gone under the total in three of their previous four games.

* Anaheim has emerged as a must-have under play so far this season, and Perry's potential long-term absence should only galvanize that trend. The Ducks have gone under in five consecutive games and are an incredible 11-21-1 O/U for the year.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Brandon Lee Dec 18 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Blazers vs Wolves
Play on: Blazers +3½ -105 at betonline

10* FREE NBA PICK (Blazers +3.5)
Portland comes in having won 3 straight and are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games. The impressive thing is the last 4 contests have all come on the road. I'll take my chances here with the Blazers keeping it going against a Timberwolves team that will either have a hobbled Jimmy Butler or not have him at all. Butler was dealing with some serious back pain in Minnesota's last game, which they lost 106-108 at home.
I have a hard time seeing the Timberwolves sending Butler out there in December if he's not 100% and the line the books set here has me thinking the oddsmakers don't expect him to play. I also think that this is a good matchup for Portland, who have had their struggles offensively this year, as they are averaging just 102.7 ppg.
Minnesota is a team that continues to struggle to play well defensively. They are giving up 106.4 ppg and their opponents for the season are shooting 48% against them. It's also worth noting that the Blazers are only giving up 98.7 ppg on the road where they are 9-5 SU and 9-4-1 ATS. Give me Portland +3.5!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Martin Dec 18 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NBA | Knicks vs Hornets
Play on: Knicks +6½ -107 at 5Dimes

1 Unit FREE PLAY on New York Knicks +6.5
The Charlotte Hornets cannot be laying 6.5 points to the New York Knicks with how poorly they are playing right now. The Hornets are 2-10 SU & 2-9-1 ATS in their last 12 games overall. They have lost five straight home games to the likes of Portland, Miami, LA Lakers, Chicago and Golden State, so it hasn’t exactly been murderer’s row. The Knicks come in having gone 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last four games overall. Michael Beasley has given the team a huge spark, providing 30 points to lead the way in a 111-96 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder last time out. The Knicks are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 after scoring 110 or more points in three straight games. The Hornets are 0-8 ATS vs. teams who forced 14 or fewer turnovers this season. New York is 5-0 ATS in its last five games when playing on one days’ rest. New York is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings. Give me the Knicks.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Totals Guru Dec 18 '17, 7:00 PM in 1h
NCAA-B | Wake Forest vs Coastal Carolina
Play on: OVER 149 -115

Free Total Annihilator On Wake Forest vs Coastal Carolina over 149 -115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jack Jones Dec 18 '17, 10:35 PM in 4h
NBA | Warriors vs Lakers
Play on: Lakers +6 -103 at 5Dimes

Jack’s Free Pick Monday: Los Angeles Lakers +6
The Golden State Warriors are ripe for the picking tonight with all of their injuries. They are without starting PG Stephen Curry and backup PG Shaun Livingston. They are also without starting C Zaza Pachulia and starting PF Draymond Green. That leaves Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson with massive shoes to fill.
The Lakers played a full strength Warriors team a couple weeks ago on November 29th and only lost 123-127 at home as 13.5-point underdogs. Now the Lakers are the team at full strength with everyone available, and they will want revenge and should get it as 6-point home dogs in the rematch.
The Lakers have been pretty competitive at home this season, going 6-7 SU & 7-6 ATS while only getting outscored by 0.6 points per game on average. The Lakers come in fresh and ready to go after last playing on Thursday in a 112-121 loss at Cleveland as 10.5-point dogs. They have had three days off since that defeat.
The Warriors are 9-23 ATS in their last 32 road games vs. a team with a losing record. Golden State is also 9-23 ATS in its last 32 games overall vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Los Angeles is 4-1 ATS in its last five home games vs. a team with a winning % betting than .600. Bet the Lakers Monday.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bobby Conn Dec 18 '17, 7:00 PM in 1h
NCAA-B | Northeastern vs Kent State
Play on: Kent State +1½ -110 at Bovada

1* Free Play on Kent State +1½ -110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Info Plays Dec 18 '17, 8:30 PM in 2h
NFL | Falcons vs Bucs
Play on: Bucs +7 -110 at 5Dimes

1* Free Play on Bucs +7 -110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Scott Rickenbach Dec 18 '17, 7:05 PM in 1h
NHL | Ducks vs Devils
Play on: Ducks +120 at 5Dimes

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Game #1 Monday Free Pick Anaheim Ducks Money Line (+) @ New Jersey Devils @ 7:05 ET - The Devils are off of a big upset win over the Stars Friday. That certainly holds significance here as only once in the past five weeks has New Jersey managed to win back to back games. As for the Ducks, they'll be hungry here as they lost 3-2 at Washington Saturday and they played quite well in that game plus had won 3 of their 4 prior games. Anaheim responds off of that frustrating defeat here and, in doing so, improves to 47-33 when off of a non-conference game. As for the Devils, they have lost 5 of 7 this season when off of a win by a multiple goal margin. Also, New Jersey has lost 28 of 43 the past 2+ seasons when they are off of game where they scored 4 goals or more. The road dog proves to be the hungrier team here. Free Pick ANAHEIM

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sal Michaels Dec 18 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Blazers vs Wolves
Play on: Wolves -4 -110 at BMaker

Free Play on Wolves -4 -110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hunter Price Dec 18 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Nuggets vs Thunder
Play on: Thunder -4½ -115 at BMaker

1* Free Pick on Thunder -4½ -115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Dave Price Dec 18 '17, 8:35 PM in 2h
NBA | Suns vs Mavs
Play on: Suns +7 -105 at 5Dimes

Dave’s Monday Free Play:
1* on Phoenix Suns +7
The Key: The Phoenix Suns have some great young depth that has allowed them to overcome trading Eric Bledsoe and the injury to Devin Booker. The Suns have gone 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall with only 2 losses by more than 7 points during this stretch. I think the Mavericks are in a tough hangover spot here after blowing a big lead to the Spurs and losing 96-98. They lost to the Warriors the game before, and the Spurs the game before. So after facing the Spurs and the Warriors in their past 3 games, they won’t be focused against the Suns tonight. The Suns are rested as this will be just their 2nd game in 5 days following their 108-106 win at Minnesota as 12-point dogs on Saturday. The Mavericks are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games vs. teams with a winning percentage of less than 40%. Dallas is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games vs. a team with a losing record. The Suns are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 meetings in Dallas. Take Phoenix.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Williams Dec 18 '17, 8:05 PM in 2h
NBA | Blazers vs Wolves
Play on: Wolves -4 -109 at betonline

1* on Wolves -4 -109

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jimmy Boyd Dec 18 '17, 7:35 PM in 1h
NBA | Heat vs Hawks
Play on: Heat -2½ -115 at BMaker

Free Pick on Heat -
I like the value here with Miami as a short road favorite against the Hawks on Monday. The Heat are dealing with some injuries, but have still managed to win 4 of their last 5. They are expected to get a big piece back tonight, as Justise Winslow is expected to return after missing the last two.
Atlanta on the other hand is looking more and more like the worst team in the league. The Hawks have lost 4 straight and are now just 6-23 on the season. Playing at home hasn't provided any sort of edge, as Atlanta is just 3-10 at home.
I believe the difference here will come on the defensive side of the ball. Miami's been locking down their opponents, allowing just 91.2 ppg over their last 5. The Hawks on the other hand are one of the worst defensive teams in the league. They are giving up 108.7 ppg, while allowing opponents to shoot 47% from the field and 38% from behind the 3-point line.
Heat are 23-11 ATS in their last 34 road games, 30-17 ATS in their last 47 against a team with a losing record and are 4-1 ATS in their lsat 5 road games against a team with a losing home record. Take Miami!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pro Computer Gambler Dec 18 '17, 9:05 PM in 3h
NHL | Penguins vs Avalanche
Play on: Penguins -159 at betonline

FREE NHL SYSTEM OF THE DAY: In database history, teams off a 1,2 or 3 goal average margin win in which their shots on goal / goals scored was fewer than 7.5 are just 1172-1314 47.1% SU -279.81 units (+148.25 units to fade). Fade Avalanche

[Can'tPickAWinner]

ASA Dec 18 '17, 7:00 PM in 1h
NCAA-B | Northern Illinois vs Marquette
Play on: OVER 156 -120

ASA PLAY OVER 156 #725/726 Northern Illinois @ Marquette, 7PM ET - There should be plenty of points scored here to push this OVER the total as both teams shoot it well and really don't defend well. Marquette is 308th in 2-point percentage defense and 284th in 3-point FG% 'D' while Northern Illinois is 327th in 3-point FG% defense and 154th in 2PT FG% 'D'. The big problem for NIU is the fact that Marquette EFG% is one of the best in the nation (14th) and they make over 40% of their 3-point attempts which is 36th in the country. No. Illinois doesn't shoot it as well as Marquette but they are better than average in several key offensive categories. UM has scored 80+ points in 7 of their ten games this year and 90+ in four. Base on the pace of play and efficiency numbers these two teams should combined for 160+ points tonight. BET OVER!

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Bobby Wing Dec 18 '17, 7:00 PM in 1h
NCAA-B | Northeastern vs Kent State
Play on: Kent State +2 -105 at betonline

1 Unit Free Pick: Kent State +2 -105

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Primetime Sports Picks

NBA Clippers +11

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Insider Sports Report

NBA Boston -2.5

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National Sports Service

CBB Omaha +33.5

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The Sports Consensus

CBB E. Carolina -2.5

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Top Rank Sports Picks

CBB Idaho St. -4.5

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Profit On Sports

CBB Kent +1.5

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Elite Sports Picks

NFL Tampa Bay +7

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topsportpick

NBA Miami over 202

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Doc's Picks

CBB S. Florida -7.5

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Monster Sports Picks

NCAAB Northeastern -1

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Chase Diamond

Chase's 15* NBA HIDDEN GEM

Boston vs. Indiana, 12/18/2017 19:00 EDT

Point Spread: +3/-105 Indiana

Sportsbook:
Bodog

This game features the 25-7 Celtics at the 17-13 Pacers. This game is a great test for the up and coming Indiana Pacers who with Victor Oladipo really look like a team to contend with. The only thing that keeps this a 20* play is the Pacers played last night but I love getting points with this motivated team at home. 15* Pacers

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Chip Chirimbes

Chip's FREE NBA Winner

Miami vs. Atlanta, 12/18/2017 19:30 EDT

Point Spread: +2/-110 Atlanta

Sportsbook:
PinnacleSports

Miami at Atlanta 7:30 ET
Hawks (+) over Heat- At 6-23 Atlanta possesses the worst record in the NBA and they are a horrid 3-10 straight-up at home but weak teams get points and they are 6-7 ATS playing as hosts. Miami has been consistent in their mediocrity and are 15-14 on the year including 8-7 on the road. The Hawks do have a sliver lining in that they are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games following a straight-up loss. Underrated Heat coach Eric Spoelstra is now the All-time wins leader passing Pat Riley. With Haason Whiteside who is in rehab the Hawks can fly high here. Take ATLANTA!

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Tony Brown

Tony's *5 Nba free play

Miami vs. Atlanta, 12/18/2017 19:30 EDT

Money Line: +100 Atlanta

Sportsbook:
Bookmaker

Fp: both teams playing equal right now Atlanta maybe a little better getting points with the home team in what short be a pick em not necessary as the hawks win outright for my Nba free play.