Saturday 10-28-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

[bmd1803]

Cavaliers at Pelicans 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Eddie

Latest Odds : CLE -4 Total 208

The Saturday NBA schedule will tip-off with a meeting between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New Orleans Pelicans from the Smoothie King Center. The defending Eastern Conference Champion Cavaliers are still integrating new pieces and have won three of their first five games overall. On Wednesday, Cleveland showed that they have plenty of work left to do during a 112-107 road loss at Brooklyn. The Cavaliers turned the ball over 21 times and shot 48 percent from the field.

LeBron James led the Cavaliers with 29 points to go along with 13 assists and ten rebounds. Kevin Love added 15 points and 12 rebounds in a losing effort for Cleveland.


The New Orleans Pelicans have two of the most dominant front court players in the league and have had an entire offseason to figure out how to best utilize them. The Pelicans have dropped three of their first five games and need improved guard play to be a postseason contender. On Thursday, New Orleans rallied from a 13-point deficit after one quarter for a 114-106 road triumph at Sacramento. The Pelicans outrebounded the Kings by 15 and shot 49 percent from the floor.

DeMarcus Cousins torched his former team for a game high 41 points and 23 rebounds. Veteran G Jameer Nelson contributed 18 points and six assists off the New Orleans bench.
Recent Betting Trends:
Cleveland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road.
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans.
New Orleans is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Cleveland's last 9 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games.
Free Betting Pick: New Orleans Pelicans +4
New Orleans F Anthony Davis (knee) did not play in the last game and is listed as day-to-day. The Cavaliers have yet to fix the defensive issues that plagued them a season ago and rank 22nd in defensive efficiency through their first five games. Take New Orleans to win outright on Saturday night. Final Score Prediction, New Orleans Pelicans win and cover ATS 110-105.

[bmd1803]

Thunder at Bulls 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Eddie

Latest Odds : OKL -9 Total 204.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder will play the second of a back-to-back when they visit the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. Last night, Oklahoma City was unable to make the plays down the stretch of a 119-116 road loss at Minnesota. The Thunder connected on 8-for-28 from long range and shot 50 percent overall. Oklahoma City lost the battle on the boards by a 44-35 margin.

Reigning league MVP Russell Westbrook led Oklahoma City with 27 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. Carmelo Anthony and Paul George contributed 23 points apiece in a losing effort for the Thunder.


The Chicago Bulls have gone into a full rebuilding effort and will struggle a great deal this season. The Bulls dropped their first three games of the season, but are coming off a 91-86 home victory versus Atlanta. Chicago dominated Atlanta on the boards by a 69-44 final margin. The Bulls won despite shooting just 7-for-32 from the three-point line and 36 percent overall.

All five Chicago starters scored in double figures and were led by Robin Lopez with 16 points on 8-for-19 shooting. Rookie F Lauri Markkanen chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Bulls.
Recent Betting Trends:
Thunder are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 0 days rest.
Bulls are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 1 day of rest.
Under is 6-1 in Thunder last 7 road games.
Under is 20-7 in Bulls last 27 home games.
Under is 6-1 in last 7 meetings in Chicago.
Free Betting Pick: Chicago Bulls +9.5
Chicago G Kris Dunn (dislocated left index finger) is listed as questionable for this matchup. The Thunder was the best rebounding team in the league a season ago, but are ranked 18th in that category through their first five games. Take Chicago to keep this close at home. Final Score Prediction, Oklahoma City Thunder win but fall short ATS 104-101.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Saturday, October 28, 2017
Where: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

Matchup Edge

LA	Edge in:	BOS
	Offense
	Defense
	Power Play
	Penalty Kill
	Face Offs
	Discipline
	Goaltending

Preview: Kings at Bruins

Gracenote
Oct 27, 2017

Jonathan Quick has the Los Angeles Kings off to their best 10-game start since posting an 8-1 mark with one tie during the 1980-81 season. The Connecticut native is expected to have family and friends in attendance at TD Garden on Saturday when the Kings play the fifth contest of their six-game road trip against the Boston Bruins.

Playing in his 500th career game, Quick recorded his 46th shutout after turning aside all 40 shots he faced in a 4-0 win over Montreal on Thursday. The 31-year-old has done just fine in his career versus the Bruins, against whom he owns a 9-4-0 mark with two shutouts, a 1.96 goals-against average and .931 save percentage. Quick could be opposed by Tuukka Rask, who cleared concussion protocol on Thursday but watched as Anton Khudobin improved to 3-0-1 on the season following a 36-save gem in a 2-1 win over San Jose. "I feel good, no symptoms whatsoever," Rask told the Boston Herald. "It's just that when you don't skate for four or five days, it doesn't matter if it's five days or a month, you have to get back in shape."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN West (Los Angeles), NESN (Boston)

ABOUT THE KINGS (8-1-1): Captain Anze Kopitar scored his team-leading seventh goal in 10 games to move within five of his total over 76 contests last season. The 30-year-old Slovenian was held off the scoresheet in a pair of encounters with Boston last season but has 12 points (four goals, eight assists) in his previous 14 tilts versus the Bruins. Fellow forward Adrian Kempe collected a goal and an assist on Thursday to increase his point total to nine (six goals, three assists) in his past five games and had an assist in a 4-1 loss to Boston on Feb. 23.

ABOUT THE BRUINS (4-3-1): Rookie Danton Heinen made the most of his recent recall from Providence of the American Hockey League, scoring the first two goals of his career in his 12th game with Boston on Thursday. "It was pretty cool. ... It's something you dream of your whole life, and you kind of just go into shock for a bit there," the 22-year-old Heinen told reporters. Heinen's stay in the lineup will be extended as David Krejci has been ruled out for his third straight contest due to a balky back.

OVERTIME

1. Boston LW Brad Marchand has recorded at least one point in six of eight games, and multi-point performances in four contests this season.

2. Los Angeles RW Dustin Brown's red-hot start to the season has cooled off following three straight games without notching a point.

3. Bruins LW David Pastrnak collected five goals and two assists during a four-game stretch before being held off the scoresheet in his last outing.

PREDICTION: Kings 2, Bruins 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Los Angeles at Boston

W/L TRENDS

Los Angeles

Kings are 4-0 in their last 4 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Kings are 4-0 in their last 4 Saturday games. Kings are 7-1 in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference. Kings are 6-1 in their last 7 vs. Atlantic. Kings are 6-1 in their last 7 overall. Kings are 4-1 in their last 5 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Kings are 4-1 in their last 5 road games. Kings are 4-1 in their last 5 games following a win. Kings are 5-2 in their last 7 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Kings are 2-5 in their last 7 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation. Kings are 2-8 in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

Boston

Bruins are 7-2 in their last 9 vs. Pacific. Bruins are 15-5 in their last 20 vs. Western Conference. Bruins are 58-26 in their last 84 Saturday games. Bruins are 3-7 in their last 10 home games. Bruins are 2-5 in their last 7 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Bruins are 2-5 in their last 7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Bruins are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Bruins are 1-7 in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. Bruins are 0-6 in their last 6 games following a win.

OU TRENDS

Los Angeles

Over is 4-0-2 in Kings last 6 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 2-0-2 in Kings last 4 Saturday games. Under is 7-1-3 in Kings last 11 games playing on 1 days rest. Under is 23-8-10 in Kings last 41 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation. Under is 17-6-5 in Kings last 28 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 8-3-4 in Kings last 15 vs. Atlantic. Under is 15-6-5 in Kings last 26 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Under is 28-13-12 in Kings last 53 road games. Under is 21-10-8 in Kings last 39 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Boston

Over is 2-0-2 in Bruins last 4 games playing on 1 days rest. Under is 4-1 in Bruins last 5 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Over is 4-1 in Bruins last 5 Saturday games. Over is 3-1-1 in Bruins last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 18-7-2 in Bruins last 27 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 5-2-2 in Bruins last 9 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 5-2-1 in Bruins last 8 games following a win. Over is 5-2 in Bruins last 7 vs. Pacific. Under is 63-31-6 in Bruins last 100 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 4-1-2 in the last 7 meetings. Under is 6-2-2 in the last 10 meetings in Boston. Home team is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings. Kings are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings in Boston.

[bmd1803]

Pistons at Clippers 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Adam

Latest Odds : LAC -6.5 Total 207

The Detroit Pistons (3 - 2, 1 - 1 Away) draw a tough road game against the undefeated LA Clippers (4 - 0, 2 - 0 Home). Los Angeles has been undefeatable so far this season thanks to a well rounded roster and a real appreciation for defense. LA will be hosting this game at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, CA. Detroit comes into this game off of a nice win over Minnesota and should have some confidence in themselves.

Los Angeles came into this season thinking that they would be in a rebuilding year thanks to the departure of Chris Paul. That just hasn't been the case, however, as the Clippers are play smooth basketball on both ends of the court. Blake Griffin (26 PPG, 9 RPG, 5 APG) is showing insane early season value and leadership and he has a great match up against Detroit's softer frontcourt. Most impressively, the Clippers are holding teams in check defensively as a team.


The Detroit Pistons are hitting the hardwood with a talented roster of under-achievers. Tobias Harris (24 PGP on 52% shooting) has been red hot to start the year and he seems to be growing into an elite scoring option. Detroit is averaging 106 PPG on offense this year while shooting 46% from the floor as a team. Detroit will look to LA by surprise in this game but we expect both teams to come out playing physical, intimidating basketball.
Recent Betting Trends:
Pistons are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.
Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
Over is 5-2 in Pistons last 7 games playing on 2 days rest.
Under is 8-3 in Clippers last 11 vs. NBA Central.
Free Betting Pick: Detroit Pistons +6.5
This Clippers team has been very good to start the year but coming off best win of season it's a big let down spot tonight. Maybe Los Angeles can pull off late comeback but just don't think they have shot at covering this large spread. Final Score Prediction, LA Clippers win but fall short covering ATS 103-99.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Saturday, October 28, 2017
Where: Air Canada Centre, Toronto, Ontario

Matchup Edge

PHI	Edge in:	TOR
	Offense
	Defense
	Power Play
	Penalty Kill
	Face Offs
	Discipline
	Goaltending

Preview: Flyers at Maple Leafs

Gracenote
Oct 27, 2017

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock admittedly was disappointed with his team's latest performance, so much so that he ended the following day's practice after just 20 minutes in a bid to conserve his players' energy. Babcock will see if the Maple Leafs show more resolve on the ice Saturday when they conclude their three-game homestand versus the Philadelphia Flyers.

"We disappointed ourselves," Babcock said of Thursday's 6-3 loss to Carolina. "We had a little chat (Friday), but more importantly got to work for a short period of time. I thought they worked hard. I didn't want anybody out there wasting any energy fooling around. I want it at game time." James van Riemsdyk did not practice on Friday despite logging 15:18 of ice time versus the Hurricanes, leaving Babcock to admit to TSN that he wasn't sure if the forward would face his former team. Philadelphia fell into an early three-goal deficit and dropped its second straight contest with a 5-4 setback against flu-ridden Ottawa on Thursday. The Flyers' defense has been gashed for 11 goals in two games without blue-liner Andrew MacDonald, who is expected to be sidelined at least a month after a blocking a shot by Edmonton's Mark Letestu last week.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NBCSN Philadelphia-Plus, CBC (Toronto)

ABOUT THE FLYERS (5-5-0): Sean Couturier has upped his offense game, as his 14-goal performance in 66 outings in 2016-17 is in jeopardy of being eclipsed in short order as he has scored a team-high seven times in just 10 contests this season. The 24-year-old nearly netted his second goal and fourth point of Thursday's game as his shot wound up in the glove of Craig Anderson on the other side of the goal line, but the referee ruled the play a non-goal because the whistle had blown. Fellow forward Jakub Voracek netted his first goal on Thursday and has a club-best 14 points (one goal, 13 assists) in 10 games.
ABOUT THE MAPLE LEAFS (7-3-0): Auston Matthews increased his point total to six (three goals, three assists) in his past four games with a goal and an assist on Thursday, but the 20-year-old took issue with his team's lackluster start out of the gate. "If we start like that, we're not going to win many games," Matthews told reporters. "I think it's just a consistency thing for this team right now." Toronto has been remarkably consistent in allowing shots on goal, as its 34.2 per game average is contributing to Frederik Andersen's less-than-stellar goals-against average (3.54) and save percentage (.893) - albeit with a strong 6-3-0 mark.

OVERTIME

1. Philadelphia D Shayne Gostisbehere has recorded seven of his 11 assists on the power play.

2. Toronto F Patrick Marleau practiced on a line with Tyler Bozak and Mitch Marner on Friday after spending the season grouped with Nazem Kadri and Leo Komarov.

3. Flyers injury-riddled RW Wayne Simmonds has been held off the scoresheet in three of his last four outings.

PREDICTION: Maple Leafs 4, Flyers 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Philadelphia at Toronto

W/L TRENDS

Philadelphia

Flyers are 5-0 in their last 5 Saturday games. Flyers are 6-1 in their last 7 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Flyers are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning record. Flyers are 11-5 in their last 16 vs. Atlantic. Flyers are 2-5 in their last 7 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Flyers are 4-10 in their last 14 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Flyers are 8-24 in their last 32 road games.

Toronto

Maple Leafs are 7-1 in their last 8 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Maple Leafs are 7-1 in their last 8 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Maple Leafs are 5-1 in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Maple Leafs are 5-1 in their last 6 Saturday games. Maple Leafs are 7-2 in their last 9 games following a home loss of 3 or more goals. Maple Leafs are 7-3 in their last 10 overall. Maple Leafs are 7-16 in their last 23 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Maple Leafs are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. Metropolitan.

OU TRENDS

Philadelphia

Over is 4-0 in Flyers last 4 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 5-0 in Flyers last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 4-1 in Flyers last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Under is 6-2 in Flyers last 8 Saturday games. Under is 20-7-1 in Flyers last 28 games playing on 1 days rest. Over is 5-2 in Flyers last 7 overall.

Toronto

Over is 7-0 in Maple Leafs last 7 Saturday games. Over is 6-1 in Maple Leafs last 7 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 5-1 in Maple Leafs last 6 home games. Over is 8-2 in Maple Leafs last 10 overall. Under is 6-2 in Maple Leafs last 8 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 3-1-1 in Maple Leafs last 5 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 6-2 in Maple Leafs last 8 following a loss of 3 or more goals.

HEAD TO HEAD

Over is 8-1 in the last 9 meetings in Toronto. Over is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings. Flyers are 2-5 in the last 7 meetings.

[bmd1803]

Sixers at Mavericks 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Mike

Latest Odds : PHI -1 Total 210.5

The Philadelphia 76ers (1 - 4, 1 - 2 Away) are on the road this weekend to play the hapless Dallas Mavericks (1 - 5, 1 - 3 Home). Dallas will be hosting this game at home in the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. Dallas has been one of the worst teams in the NBA to start this season while Philadelphia has struggled to live up to their early season expectations.

The Dallas Mavericks are taking the court after a tough loss to Memphis. Dallas has shown some grit in the early going but the Mavs haven't been able to turn that into wins. Dallas is scoring just 98 PPG on offense this season while shooting 41% from the floor. A big problem has been the Mavs lack of ability to move the ball around to get open shots. Dallas is surrendering 107 PPG to opposing teams this season as well.


Philly comes into this game with a strong roster but their high level talent hasn't put it together as of yet. Philly is averaging 100 PPG on offense this year while shooting 43% from the floor as a team. Joel Embiid (20 PPG, 11 RPG) has been a force down low and he'll match up with former teammate, Nerlens Noel. Philly is averaging 100 PPG on offense this season while shooting just 43% from the floor as a team.
Recent Betting Trends:
76ers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
Mavericks are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 home games.
Over is 5-1 in 76ers last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.
Over is 7-3-1 in Mavericks last 11 games following a straight up loss.
Free Betting Pick: Philadelphia 76ers -1
This Mavericks team looked good in back to back games verse Memphis last two games. But think the more athletic and youthful Sixers are too much for Dallas tonight. This Philly team is loaded with young talent and the up and down style is just way too much for limited Dallas offense. Final Score Prediction, Philadelphia 76ers win and cover ATS 109-102.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Saturday, October 28, 2017
Where: Bell Centre, Montreal, Quebec

Matchup Edge

NYR	Edge in:	MON
	Offense
	Defense
	Power Play
	Penalty Kill
	Face Offs
	Discipline
	Goaltending

Preview: Rangers at Canadiens

Gracenote
Oct 27, 2017

Routinely applauded throughout the majority of his decorated professional and international career, Carey Price found himself on the receiving end of jeers and Bronx cheers in his last outing at the Bell Centre. The former Hart and Vezina Trophy winner hopes to hear a better response from the Montreal Canadiens' faithful on Saturday when the club concludes its three-game homestand versus the New York Rangers.

"It's been done before and it will be done again. For me, I just got to focus on my job," Price told the Montreal Gazette following Thursday's 4-0 setback versus the Los Angeles Kings. While the sputtering Canadiens have dropped eight of nine (1-7-1) and been shut out twice already this season, the Rangers have answered a disastrous 1-5-2 start with victories in two of their last three games. The line of Michael Grabner-Boo Nieves-Pavel Buchnevich registered seven points (four goals, three assists) in Thursday's 5-2 win over Arizona, with at least one member of the contingent scoring one of the team's final four goals in the contest. Buchnevich recorded his first career multi-goal performance to increase his point total to four (three goals, one assist) in the past five games.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NHL Network, MSG (New York), Sportsnet One, CITY, TVA (Montreal)

ABOUT THE RANGERS (3-6-2): Mika Zibanejad scored a goal in New York's 2-0 win over Montreal at Madison Square Garden on Oct. 8 and notched his team high-tying eighth point (six goals, two assists) on Thursday to remain even with Mats Zuccarello and J.T. Miller. As for the 30-year-old Norwegian, Zuccarello recorded his team high-leading sixth assist this season versus the Coyotes and has set up three goals in his last five regular-season games against the Canadiens. Ondrej Pavelec is expected to get the start versus Montreal, against which he is 2-0-0 with a 1.92 goals-against average and .942 save percentage in his last three appearances.

ABOUT THE CANADIENS (2-7-1): Defenseman Victor Mete was informed on Friday that his stay in Montreal has been extended. "(General manager) Marc Bergevin told me that I could find a place," the 19-year-old Toronto native told reporters. "My mother is definitely going to be living with me for my first year." Mete has been paired with veteran workhorse defenseman Shea Weber for the preseason and the first 10 games this season, sporting a pair of assists and a minus-8 rating this season.

OVERTIME

1. New York's Alain Vigneault (617 wins), who coached with Montreal from 1997-2001, will move past Jacques Lemaire for sole possession of 13th place on the NHL's all-time list with his next victory.

2. Canadiens RW Brendan Gallagher shares the team lead in goals (three) with Weber this season, but has been limited to just one assist in his last nine career encounters with the Rangers.

3. New York is just 1-for-14 on the power play in its last four games while Montreal collected five goals with the man-advantage in its previous five contests before going 0-for-5 on Thursday.

PREDICTION: Rangers 3, Canadiens 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - NY Rangers at Montreal

W/L TRENDS

NY Rangers

Rangers are 4-1 in their last 5 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Rangers are 35-16 in their last 51 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Rangers are 40-19 in their last 59 vs. a team with a losing record. Rangers are 3-10 in their last 13 overall. Rangers are 1-4 in their last 5 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Rangers are 1-4 in their last 5 games following a win. Rangers are 1-4 in their last 5 Saturday games. Rangers are 1-5 in their last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Rangers are 1-5 in their last 6 games playing on 1 days rest. Rangers are 0-5 in their last 5 road games. Rangers are 0-4 in their last 4 vs. Eastern Conference.

Montreal

Canadiens are 8-0 in their last 8 games following a home loss of 3 or more goals. Canadiens are 12-4 in their last 16 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Canadiens are 37-17 in their last 54 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Canadiens are 3-7 in their last 10 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Canadiens are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference. Canadiens are 1-4 in their last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Canadiens are 1-4 in their last 5 home games. Canadiens are 1-8 in their last 9 overall. Canadiens are 1-8 in their last 9 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Canadiens are 0-5 in their last 5 vs. Metropolitan. Canadiens are 0-7 in their last 7 games playing on 1 days rest.

OU TRENDS

NY Rangers

Over is 6-1 in Rangers last 7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Over is 4-1 in Rangers last 5 overall. Over is 4-1 in Rangers last 5 vs. a team with a losing record. Over is 4-1 in Rangers last 5 Saturday games. Under is 4-1-2 in Rangers last 7 games following a win. Over is 4-1-2 in Rangers last 7 vs. Atlantic. Over is 5-2-1 in Rangers last 8 games playing on 1 days rest.

Montreal

Over is 4-0 in Canadiens last 4 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 5-1 in Canadiens last 6 overall. Under is 14-3-4 in Canadiens last 21 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 3-1-1 in Canadiens last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 3-1-1 in Canadiens last 5 vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Under is 5-2-1 in Canadiens last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. Under is 5-2-1 in Canadiens last 8 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Under is 15-6-6 in Canadiens last 27 vs. Metropolitan. Over is 7-3-3 in Canadiens last 13 following a home loss of 3 or more goals.

HEAD TO HEAD

Rangers are 4-0 in the last 4 meetings. Over is 3-1-1 in the last 5 meetings in Montreal. Under is 18-6-7 in the last 31 meetings. Rangers are 6-14 in the last 20 meetings in Montreal.

[bmd1803]

Rockets at Grizzlies 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Jim

Latest Odds : HOU -2 Total 207

The Houston Rockets are on the road this weekend to take on the home town Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis will be hosting this contest at the FedExForum in Memphis, TN. Houston rolls into town on the second night of a back to back set while Memphis should largely be rested, healthy, and ready to bring physicality to the court. Houston is currently banged up with several key players experiencing injury including Trevor Ariza and Chris Paul.

Houston will be taking the court with one of the more complete offenses in the NBA. Houston is averaging 106 PPG on offense this season while shooting 45% from the floor as a team. Houston will follow the lead of superstar James Harden (26 PPG, 10 APG). Harden has a tough match up against an elite Memphis defense but he'll look to get the Rockets back in the win column after losing the first game of this series.


Memphis takes the court with their trademark characteristics in place: a strong defense and solid team basketball. Memphis is averaging 100 PPG on offense this season while only allowing 96 PPG to opposing teams so far this year. Marc Gasol (25 PPG, 11 RPG) is on an MVP-like pace to start the season and he'll be relied upon a ton in this game in order to keep Memphis competitive. Expect the Grizzlies to come out playing physical in the paint to offset Houston's pace.
Recent Betting Trends:
Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
Grizzlies are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
Under is 4-0 in Rockets last 4 overall.
Under is 4-0-1 in Grizzlies last 5 vs. Western Conference.
Free Betting Pick: Memphis Grizzlies +2
Tough spot for Houston playing 2nd road game in as many nights. At least the Rockets were able to rest starters being up big late, but still think Grizzlies take advantage of Houston being in back to back spot. Memphis has perfect style to grind out win against soft inside game for Houston. Final Score Prediction, Memphis Grizzlies win outright as underdog and easily cover ATS 98-94.

[bmd1803]

Suns at Blazers 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Mike

Latest Odds : POR -10 Total 216

The season opened with Portland handing Phoenix its worst season-opening loss in its history, and that was in Phoenix. The Suns get a chance at some redemption Saturday when they face the Blazers again in Portland.

The Suns are not expected to be good this year, and they did give up about 130 points per game in their first three. The Suns have won two since then and seem to have at least stopped the bleeding on defense. Phoenix will be without Eric Blesdoe for this game.

Portland may be better than many realize. The Blazers are 3-2, and their two losses have come by a total of four points.

Portland leads the league in rebounding at 51.4 per game. The team is seventh on offense at 110.8 and fifth on defense at 96.4. CJ McCollum is averaging 25 points and Damian Lillard is averaging 21.8. Al-Farouq Aminu and Ed Davis are both averaging 9.4 rebounds per game.


The Blazers are shooting 43 percent overall, and 44 from the 3-point line. McCollum has hit 66 percent of his 3-pointers and leads the team at 52 percent in overall shooting percentage.

The last time these teams played, McCollum was on suspension. Pat Connaughton scored 24 playing in his absence. Connaughton's playing time has diminished greatly since McCollum's return.

In that first game, Portland shot 49 percent overall and 58 from behind the arc. Phoenix shot 31 percent and 25 from behind the arc. Bledsoe was the Suns' leading scorer with 15.
Recent Betting Trends:
Suns are 23-48 ATS in their last 71 games following a ATS win.
Trail Blazers are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
Over is 8-3 in Suns last 11 games following a straight up win.
Under is 4-1 in Trail Blazers last 5 overall.
Free Betting Pick: Phoenix Suns +10
The Suns are undefeated since firing Coach Watson and casting away malcontent Eric Bledso. Granted both wins were at home against lesser competition but give us double digits and think it's enough for Phoenix to cover for us bettors. Final Score Prediction, Portland Trail Blazers win but fall short ATS 112-105.

[bmd1803]

Lakers at Jazz 10/28/17 - NBA Picks & Predictions

by Jim

Latest Odds : UTAH -9 Total 206

Lonzo Ball is making the transition to the NBA well, and the Lakers are doing better as a result. The Lakers are 2-2 and play the Jazz at Utah Saturday. The Lakers have played it close with both their wins so far coming by a total of five points.

Ball has averaged 11 points and nine assists. He has had 10 or more in each of his last two games. He scored 29 in one game. He has also played well on defense.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leads the Lakers in scoring at 17 per game, but he has played in only two games. Six more players have played in all the games and are averaging in double figures.

LA is averaging 109 points and is ninth in scoring. Thanks to Ball they are third in assists at 24.3 per game. The downside for the Lakers is they are 27th in defense, allowing 114 points per game.


The Jazz are a defensive-minded team, and they like a much slower pace. While the game is getting faster, more possessions per game, the Jazz are last in that department and they have been for the last few seasons.

The Jazz are fifth on defense, giving up 96.5 points per game. The offense has not got going yet. Utah is next to last in scoring at 94.2 points per game, and they are three spots from the bottom in rebounding at 40 per game.

Rodney Hood leads the team in scoring at 16 points per game. Rudy Gobert is averaging 14.4 and 11.4 rebounds.
Recent Betting Trends:
Lakers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
Jazz are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
Under is 5-1 in Lakers last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
Under is 4-1 in Jazz last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
Free Betting Pick: Utah Jazz -9
Tough spot for Lakers in a back to back spot verse rested Jazz team. Even harder for Lakers is facing a unique style that the Jazz bring. Utah defense and great rebounding is just too much for young tired Lakers. Final Score Prediction, Utah Jazz win and cover ATS 104-91.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Saturday, October 28, 2017
Where: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Matchup Edge

ANA	Edge in:	TB
	Offense
	Defense
	Power Play
	Penalty Kill
	Face Offs
	Discipline
	Goaltending

Preview: Ducks at Lightning

Gracenote
Oct 27, 2017

Captain Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov look to continue their historic streaks as the Tampa Bay Lightning go after a fifth straight victory when the injury-plagued Anaheim Ducks pay a visit Saturday night. Kucherov leads the league with 12 goals while Stamkos boasts a league-best 21 points, and they are the seventh duo for one team in NHL history to start a season with 11-game point streaks - the first since 1992-93.

“I truly believe, whatever the sport is, you have to have some special players,” Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper told reporters. “It’s a team sport but you need those guys. … We’re fortunate to have a few of them and those are two that rise to the top.” The Lightning own the league’s best record (9-1-1) while earning a point in nine consecutive games and are 8-0-5 in the last 13 meetings with the Ducks, who are licking their wounds after an 8-3 loss at Florida on Thursday night. “It surprised our group because we’re coming off a real strong game in Philadelphia,” Anaheim coach Randy Carlyle told reporters after his team’s first win streak ended. “We just didn’t have anything tonight.” The Ducks are still 4-4-1 despite missing several key players to injury all season, including defenseman Sami Vatanen and center Ryan Kesler, and a power play that is 2-for-31.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Prime Ticket (Anaheim), FSN Sun (Tampa Bay)

ABOUT THE DUCKS (4-4-1): Kevin Bieksa (hand) is expected to miss at least the rest of the trip, joining fellow defenseman Cam Fowler (knee) on the shelf, but Vatanen could return soon from offseason shoulder surgery. Forwards Logan Shaw and Kalle Kossila each notched their first goal of the season Thursday while Andrew Cogliano also scored to take over the team lead with seven points. Goalie John Gibson, who had permitted two or fewer goals in six straight games, allowed six in two periods Thursday but Cogliano told reporters, “Gibby was the one taking the brunt for our mistakes and our poor judgement and a lot of turnovers.”

ABOUT THE LIGHTNING (9-1-1): Tampa Bay is off to its best start in franchise history at home (6-0-0) and goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy has won eight straight games while allowing seven goals in his past six outings. The Lightning lead the league on the power play (31.1 percent) with Kucherov and Stamkos contributing six goals and 11 assists with the man advantage, helping them tie Martin St. Louis (2009-10) for the franchise’s longest point streak to start the season. Rookie defenseman Mikhail Sergachev added an assist in Thursday’s 3-2 victory over Detroit and owns four goals to go along with four assists during a five-game point streak.

OVERTIME

1. Anaheim F Corey Perry has not scored a goal since recording a pair on opening night.

2. Tampa Bay D Daniel Girardi, who leads the team with 24 blocked shots, is scheduled to play his 800th game Saturday.

3. Ducks D Josh Manson boasts four assists and leads the team with a plus-6 rating.

PREDICTION: Lightning 4, Ducks 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Anaheim at Tampa Bay

W/L TRENDS

Anaheim

Ducks are 12-2 in their last 14 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Ducks are 28-11 in their last 39 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Ducks are 5-2 in their last 7 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Ducks are 22-10 in their last 32 vs. a team with a winning record. Ducks are 2-5 in their last 7 road games. Ducks are 2-7 in their last 9 Saturday games. Ducks are 1-7 in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest.

Tampa Bay

Lightning are 8-0 in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. Lightning are 8-0 in their last 8 vs. a team with a losing record. Lightning are 10-1 in their last 11 home games. Lightning are 6-1 in their last 7 games following a win. Lightning are 4-1 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Lightning are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference. Lightning are 16-5 in their last 21 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Lightning are 21-7 in their last 28 overall.

OU TRENDS

Anaheim

Under is 6-0 in Ducks last 6 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 3-0-3 in Ducks last 6 Saturday games. Under is 5-1 in Ducks last 6 games playing on 1 days rest. Under is 4-1-1 in Ducks last 6 vs. a team with a winning record. Over is 10-3-4 in Ducks last 17 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 9-3-3 in Ducks last 15 road games. Over is 3-1-1 in Ducks last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Over is 5-2-1 in Ducks last 8 vs. Atlantic. Over is 10-4-3 in Ducks last 17 following a loss of 3 or more goals. Over is 9-4-1 in Ducks last 14 vs. Eastern Conference.

Tampa Bay

Over is 7-0 in Lightning last 7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Under is 4-1 in Lightning last 5 games playing on 1 days rest. Over is 8-2 in Lightning last 10 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 7-2-1 in Lightning last 10 vs. Pacific. Over is 10-3 in Lightning last 13 home games. Over is 8-3 in Lightning last 11 games following a win. Over is 5-2 in Lightning last 7 vs. a team with a losing record. Under is 5-2-1 in Lightning last 8 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 9-4 in Lightning last 13 overall.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 4-0-1 in the last 5 meetings. Home team is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings. Ducks are 1-5 in the last 6 meetings. Ducks are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Tampa Bay.