NBA Season 2014-15 Discussion

[windell]

NBA
12-11-2014

Minnesota Timberwolves vs Portland Trail Blazers

Home - Minnesota Timberwolves
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-L-L

The Minnesota Timberwolves who are just 4-16 overall on the season and are coming off their sixth straight loss, a 102-86 blowout against the Warriors on Monday. Andrew Wiggins led the scoring with 21 points while Shabazz Muhammad added 14 points in just 18 minutes off the bench, but the Wolves shot just 36 percent from the field as a team which is never going to be good enough against the league-leading Warriors. Zach LaVine particularly struggled, scoring just nine points on four of 16 shooting after pouring in 22 points and 10 assists on Saturday against the Spurs, but he'll continue to get as many minutes as he can handle with Mo Williams still sidelined with injury.

Away - Portland Trail Blazers
Last away matches - W-W-W-W-W-W

The Portland Trailblazers have won 14 of their last 15 and are going for a sixth straight tonight after cruising past the strugglingPistons by 98-86 last night. LaMarcus Aldridge led the scoring with 23 points and 11 rebounds while Wesley Matthews added 19 points on eight of 12 shooting as the Blazers led by double digits early on and never looked back. Defensively, the Blazers did a great job of holding the Pistons to 35.1 percent shooting for the game which has been their biggest improvement so far this season, allowing just 96 points per game, good enough for sixth in the league.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+10.00)
Away - (-10.00)
Pick - Portland Trail Blazers (-10.00)
Odds - 1.92
Stakes - 8/10
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NBA
12-11-2014

Dallas Mavericks vs New Orleans Pelicans

Home - Dallas Mavericks
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-W-L

The Dallas Mavericks have won six of their last eight overall but will still be licking their wounds after losing to the Grizzlies by 114-105 last night. Chandler Parsons made six threes en route to 30 points, while Jameer Nelson added 18 points, but it still wasn't enough to make up for Monta Ellis who has been the Mavs' best player so far this season, but made just one of his 11 shots to finish with a season-low two points. Dirk Nowitzki wasn't much better, scoring just 11 points on four of 17 shooting so it's actually a little surprising the Mavs didn't lose by a bigger margin. Despite the loss, Dallas are still a healthy 16-7 on the season and 8-4 on the road.

Away - New Orleans Pelicans
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-W

The New Orleans Pelicans have won three of their last five overall and are going for a third straight after taking down the slumping Knicks by 104-93 last night. Tyreke Evans led the way with a game-high 27 points on 11 of 15 shooting while Anthony Davis added 18 points as the Pelicans sent the Knicks to improved to their ninth straight loss. With the win, New Orleans returns to .500 on the season with a 10-10 overall record and 6-2 record at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-7.00)
Away - (+7.00)
Pick - Dallas Mavericks (-7.00)
Odds - 2.04
Stakes - 9/10

[windell]

NBA
12-11-2014

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Cleveland Cavaliers

Home - Oklahoma City Thunder
Last away matches - W-W-L-L-L-W

The Oklahoma City Thunder have won five of their last six games and are as healthy as they’ve been all season. On the year, the Thunder are averaging 93.5 points on 43.1 percent shooting and are allowing 94.4 points on 42.2 percent shooting. Russell Westbrook leads OKC with 24.3 points and 6.6 assists while Kevin Durant is averaging 22 points and 5.5 rebounds. Reggie Jackson is shooting 42.2 percent from the field and Serge Ibaka is grabbing 7.5 rebounds per game. The Oklahoma City Thunder are averaging 104.4 points on 46.3 percent shooting in their last five games, as they’re 6-2 SU when scoring at least 100 points. However, the Thunder’s defense has also improved since the return of Durant, as OKC is holding teams to 24.1 percent shooting from deep in their last five games.

Away - Cleveland Cavaliers
Last away matches - W-W-W-L-W-W

The Cleveland Cavaliers are starting to look like a championship team with eight starting wins. On the season, the Cavaliers are averaging 103.5 points on 46.6 percent shooting and are allowing 98.2 points on 46.1 percent shooting. LeBron James leads the Cavs with 24.8 points and 7.7 assists while Kyrie Irving is averaging 20.8 points and 5.1 assists. Kevin Love is shooting 44.6 percent from the field and Anderson Varejao is grabbing 6.9 rebounds per game. The Cleveland Cavaliers are starting to hit on all cylinders, shooting 49 percent from the field in their last five games and winning 11 straight games when topping 100 points. The Cavs have also held three of their last four opponents to 91 or less points. Mike Miller is questionable for this game with a concussion.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-2.00)
Away - (+2.00)
Pick - Cleveland Cavaliers (+2.00)
Odds - 2.03
Stakes - 10/10

[windell]

NBA
12-12-2014

Toronto Raptors vs Indiana Pacers

Home - Toronto Raptors
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-W-W

The Toronto Raptors have split their last eight games and are still the top squad in the East. On the season, the Raptors are averaging 108.5 points on 46.3 percent shooting and are allowing 100.5 points on 46.3 percent shooting. Kyle Lowry leads Toronto with 20.1 points and 7.5 assists while Louis Williams is averaging 13.9 points on 41.4 percent shooting. Jonas Valanciunas is grabbing 8.6 rebounds per game and Terrence Ross is scoring 11.9 points. The Toronto Raptors are starting to struggle defensively without DeMar DeRozan, as they’re allowing 106 points on 47.6 percent shooting in their last five games. The Raptors have allowed 100-plus points in nine straight games, a number that has to improve if they’re truly going to be a title contender. Still, the Raptors are 10-3 SU at home, one of just five teams with double-digit home wins.

Away - Indiana Pacers
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-W

The Indiana Pacers have lost six straight games despite being as healthy as they’ve been all year. On the season, the Pacers are averaging 93.5 points on 42.4 percent shooting and are allowing 97.1 points on 45.8 percent shooting. Rodney Stuckey leads Indiana with 12.7 points and 2.8 assists while Roy Hibbert is averaging 11.9 points and 7.4 rebounds. David West is grabbing 5.9 rebounds per game and Chris Copeland is shooting 37.1 percent from the field. The Indiana Pacers are just a brutal offensive team with no Paul George on the court, as they’re shooting just 41.6 percent from the field and 29.7 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games. No matter how well the Pacers rebound or play defense, it’s tough to win in this league when the offense consistently struggles.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-9.00)
Away - (+9.00)
Pick - Toronto Raptors (-9.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 8/10
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NBA
12-12-2014

Memphis Grizzlies vs Charlotte Hornets

Home - Memphis Grizzlies
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-L-L

The Memphis Grizzlies have won seven of their last nine games and will wrap up a four-game homestand. On the season, the Grizzlies are averaging 101 points on 47.2 percent shooting and are allowing 94 points on 43.9 percent shooting. Marc Gasol leads Memphis with 19.5 points and eight rebounds while Mike Conley is averaging 16.9 points and 6.1 assists. Zach Randolph is grabbing 11 rebounds per game and Courtney Lee is shooting 53.6 percent from the field. The Memphis Grizzlies have shown more signs of life offensively, topping 100 points in their last three games while shooting 50.4 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from three in their last five games. The Grizzlies will continue to be tough to beat as long as their offense continues to perform at a high level.

Away - Charlotte Hornets
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-W-L

The Charlotte Hornets are looking for their first road win in nearly a month and a season-high three straight wins. On the season, the Hornets are averaging 94.2 points on 42.9 percent shooting and are allowing 100.5 points on 46.4 percent shooting. Al Jefferson lads Charlotte with 19.7 points and eight rebounds while Kemba Walker is averaging 14.5 points and 5.6 assists. Gary Neal is shooting 40 percent from the field and Lance Stephenson is averaging 5.3 assists per game. The Charlotte Hornets continue to struggle mightily on the offensive end, shooting just 41.2 percent from the field and 22.5 percent from three in their last five games. The lack of firepower offensively likely won’t bode well against the best defensive team in the league.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-10.00)
Away - (+10.00)
Pick - Charlotte Hornets (+10.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 9/10
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NBA
12-12-2014


Utah Jazz vs Miami Heat


Home - Utah Jazz
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-W-L


The Utah Jazz have lost nine of their last 10 games and are getting ready for a six-game road trip. On the season, the Jazz are averaging 96.2 points on 46 percent shooting and are allowing 102.1 points on 47.8 percent shooting. Gordon Hayward leads Utah with 18.9 points and 5.4 rebounds while Derrick Favors is averaging 16.2 points and 8.5 rebounds. Trey Burke is averaging 5.8 assists per game and Alec Burks is shooting 40.9 percent from the field. The Utah Jazz have had trouble defensively all year and are allowing teams to shoot 49.5 percent from the field and 38 percent from deep in their last five games. The Jazz have lost seven straight games when allowing 100 or more points but are coming off a win over the Spurs where they held them to 4-20 shooting from deep


Away - Miami Heat
Last away matches - L-W-L-L-L-W


The Miami Heat have lost five of their last six games and wrap up a five-game road trip. On the season, the Heat are averaging 94.8 points on 46.4 percent shooting and are allowing 98.7 points on 48 percent shooting. Chris Bosh leads Miami with 21.5 points and 8.1 rebounds while Dwyane Wade is averaging 20.8 points and 5.8 assists. Luol Deng is shooting 49.3 percent from the field and Mario Chalmers is averaging 4.4 assists per game. The Miami Heat are struggling mightily on the defensive end, allowing teams to shoot 52.1 percent from the field and 48.2 percent from deep in their last five games. The Heat are 1-9 SU this season when allowing 100 or more points. However, six of Miami’s 10 wins have come on the road. Josh McRoberts is questionable for this game with a knee injury.


Asian Handicap
Home - (-1.00)
Away - (+1.00)
Pick - Miami Heat (+1.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 10/10

[windell]

NBA
12-15-2014

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets

Home - Cleveland Cavaliers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-W-L

The Cleveland Cavaliers were really building momentum with eight straight wins but are suddenly staring down the barrel of a possible third straight loss after falling to the Pelicans by 119-114 on Friday. LeBron James returned after sitting out on Thursday to pour in a season-high 41 points on 17 of 24 shooting while Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving added 21 and 17 points respectively, but the Cavs still couldn't match the Pelicans who were allowed to pour in a season-high 64 points in the first half while shooting 55.7 percent for the game. What made it even worse was that the Pelicans lost their best player in Anthony Davis after just seven minutes but other than James' points, no other Cavs player could capitalize on the absence of a shot blocker. With the loss, Cleveland falls to 13-9 on the season and 6-5 on the road.

Away - Charlotte Hornets
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-W

The Charlotte Hornets have struggled all season and are staring down the barrel of a third straight loss after getting thumped by the Nets 114-87 on Saturday. In a matchup against a Nets team struggling to find form, the Hornets were slow out of the gates and never really got into the race. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist had 15 points while Brian Roberts added 14, but the Hornets were completely blown off the court by the Nets who shot season highs of 58.3 percent from the field and 16 of 23 from the three-point line. Charlotte has now lost 12 of their last 14 to fall to 6-17 on the season and 5-8 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-10.00)
Away - (+10.00)
Pick - Cleveland Cavaliers (-10.00)
Odds - 1.92
Stakes - 9/10
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NBA
12-15-2014

Philadelphia 76ers vs Boston Celtics

Home - Philadelphia 76ers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Philadelphia 76ers just two wins on the entire season but almost grabbed their third on Saturday when they took the Grizzlies to overtime before losing 120-115. Robert Covington led the scoring with 24 points, Hollis Thompson added 21 while Michael Carter-Williams racked up a triple-double of 16 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists, but it still wasn't good enough to get past the Grizzlies who came back from 18 points down over the final seven minutes of regulation to force overtime and steal the win. Another game, another painful defeat, but you can't say the Sixers aren't playing hard because they've been close to winning so many games this season which says a lot when you look at their uninspiring roster.

Away - Boston Celtics
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-W-W

The Boston Celtics looked to have turned the season around when they won three straight last week, but they're now looking at a fourth straight loss after falling to the Knicks by 101-95 on Friday. Jeff Green led the scoring with 28 points including four threes while Tyler Zeller added 19 points, but the rest of the team struggled for the most part, especially on defense where the Knicks who rank near the bottom in the league were allowed to shoot 49.4 percent from the field. The Celtics simply need more scoring and they need it from players like Jared Sullinger who is averaging 14.1 points this season but has totalled just 10 points in his last three outings, including zero from Friday's loss. Boston is now just 7-14 on the season and 5-8 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+5.00)
Away - (-5.00)
Pick - Boston Celtics (-5.00)
Odds - 2.05
Stakes - 10/10
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NBA
12-15-2014

LA Clippers vs Detroit Pistons

Home - LA Clippers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-W-W

The Los Angeles Clippers have won nine of their last 11 games and return from a three-game road trip. On the season, the Clippers are averaging 106.4 points on 47.9 percent shooting and are allowing 100.1 points on 45.5 percent shooting. Blake Griffin leads LA with 22.7 points and 7.3 rebounds while Chris Paul is averaging 17.7 points and 9.8 assists. Jamal Crawford is shooting 43.4 percent from the field and DeAndre Jordan is grabbing 12.5 rebounds per game. The Los Angeles Clippers are back to their elite offensive ways, as they’re averaging 109.2 points on 39 percent shooting from deep in their last five games. The problem is that the Clippers aren’t playing much defense, allowing 100-plus points in five of their last seven games. Spencer Hawes is doubtful with a leg injury.

Away - Detroit Pistons
Last away matches - W-W-L-L-L-L

The Detroit Pistons have lost 13 of their last 15 games and hope to win three straight road games. On the season, the Pistons are averaging 93.4 points on 40.9 percent shooting and are allowing 99.2 points on 45 percent shooting. Greg Monroe leads the Detroit with 15 points and 9.2 rebounds while Josh Smith is averaging 13.7 points and 7.5 rebounds. Brandon Jennings is dishing out 6.2 assists per game and Andre Drummond is averaging 11.8 rebounds. The Detroit Pistons have been one of the worst offensive teams in the league all season but have scored a combined 200 points in their last two games, which have produced victories. Still, the Pistons are shooting just 27.2 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games. It’ll be interesting to see if Detroit can keep the momentum going.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-12.00)
Away - (+12.00)
Pick - LA Clippers (-12.00)
Odds - 1.92
Stakes - 8/10

[windell]

NBA
12-16-2014

Washington Wizards vs Minnesota Timberwolves

Home - Washington Wizards
Last away matches - W-L-L-W-W-L

The Washington Wizards have won eight of their last nine games and are fighting for the top seed in the East. On the season, the Wizards are averaging 100.7 points on 47.1 percent shooting and are allowing 96.6 points on 42.8 percent shooting. John Wall is averaging 17.7 points and 10.3 assists while Bradley Beal is averaging 15.4 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Marcin Gortat is grabbing 8.4 rebounds per game and Paul Pierce is shooting 44.1 percent from the field. The Washington Wizards remain an offensive machine, as they’re shooting 47.2 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games. However, defense has been the driving force for the Wizards this season, as they’re forcing 15.1 turnovers per game and are 14-0 SU this season when allowing less than 100 points.

Away - Minnesota Timberwolves
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-L-L

The Minnesota Timberwolves have lost eight of their last nine games and play a two-game road trip. On the season, the Timberwolves are averaging 98.5 points on 43.4 percent shooting and are allowing 108.5 points on 49.3 percent shooting. Thaddeus Young is averaging 13.7 points and 4.7 rebounds while Andrew Wiggins is averaging 12.8 points and 3.9 rebounds. Corey Brewer is averaging 3.3 assists per game and Zach LaVine is shooting 39.4 percent from the field. The Minnesota Timberwolves offense continues to struggle due to injuries, as they’re shooting just 41.1 percent from the field and 23.2 percent from deep in their last five games. The Timberwolves are 3-9 SU this season when scoring less than 100 points. Mo Williams is doubtful with a back injury.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-13.00)
Away - (+13.00)
Pick - Washington Wizards (-13.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 9/10
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NBA
12-16-2014

New York Knicks vs Dallas Mavericks

Home - New York Knicks
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-L

The Knicks of this season in no way resemble the team that dominated that night, losing all six of their road games since winning their first in Cleveland on Oct. 30.The assumption some may have about New York's January win in Dallas is that Chandler's presence contributed to the stout defense, but the center was working his way back from injury and played less than five minutes.New York shipped Chandler back to Dallas in an offseason trade that brought in point guard Jose Calderon, who missed the first 13 games with a strained calf and has totaled 12 points and eight assists in the last two games.The Knicks and Mavericks split their two meetings in each of the last three seasons. The most recent ended with Dallas prevailing 110-108 at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 24 despite Anthony's 44 points.

Away - Dallas Mavericks
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-W-L

During its recent winning streak, Dallas (10-5) which leads the NBA with an average of 109.3 points -- scored 118.6 per game, though that number was significantly bumped by three contests ending with point totals of 123, 131 and 140. Dallas, which beat Philadelphia by 53 and the Los Angeles Lakers by 34 in that span, then ran into a wall Saturday at Houston in a 95-92 loss. The difference came from 3-point range, where the teams shot a combined 21 for 81 with 15 of those 3s made by the Rockets.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+7.00)
Away - (-7.00)
Pick - New York Knicks (+7.00)
Odds - 1.94
Stakes - 10/10

[windell]

NBA
12-18-2014

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Atlanta Hawks

Home - Cleveland Cavaliers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-W-L

The Cleveland Cavaliers are finally getting going with wins in nine of their last 11 games. On the season, the Cavaliers are averaging 103.3 points on 46.2 percent shooting and are allowing 98.9 points on 46.3 percent shooting. LeBron James is averaging 25.6 points and 7.8 assists while Kyrie Irving is averaging 20.4 points and 5.2 assists. Kevin Love is grabbing 10.5 rebounds and Dion Waiters is shooting 39.6 percent from the field. The Cleveland Cavaliers are winning games but still have a ways to go, especially defensively where they’re allowing teams to shoot 48.1 percent from the field in their last five games. The Cavs have lost four of their last six games when allowing 100-plus points. Mike Miller is questionable for this game with a concussion.

Away - Atlanta Hawks
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-W-L

The Atlanta Hawks have won 10 of their last 11 games and begin a three-game road trip. On the season, the Hawks are averaging 102 points on 46.4 percent shooting and are allowing 96.9 points on 44.3 percent shooting. Jeff Teague leads Atlanta with 16.8 points and seven assists while Paul Millsap is averaging 16.5 points and 7.8 rebounds. Al Horford is grabbing 6.6 rebounds per game and Kyle Korver is shooting 51.8 percent from the field. The Atlanta Hawks defense continues to lead the way during this stretch, allowing 87.6 points on 42.2 percent shooting in their last five games. While the Hawks offense gets a lot of the credit, they’re 13-1 SU this season when allowing less than 100 points. Pero Antic has been upgraded to probable for this game despite having the flu.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-5.50)
Away - (+5.50)
Pick - Cleveland Cavaliers (-5.50)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 10/10
__________________________________________________ _______
NBA
12-18-2014

Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic

Home - Boston Celtics
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-W

The Boston Celtics have split their last eight games and are also struggling with consistency. On the season, the Celtics are averaging 104.3 points on 45.7 percent shooting and are allowing 105.6 points on 45.5 percent shooting. Jeff Green leads Boston with 19.7 points and 4.5 rebounds while Jared Sullinger is averaging 13.7 points and 8.4 rebounds. Rajon Rondo is averaging 10.6 assists per game and Avery Bradley is shooting 43.4 percent from the field. The Boston Celtics are holding teams to 42.9 percent shooting in their last five games but have still allowed 100-plus points in six of their last 10 contests. The Celtics are averaging nearly 26 assists per game, which are the most in the league but they’re not going to win much until their defense improves.

Away - Orlando Magic
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Orlando Magic have lost five of their last eight games and wrap up their two-game road trip. On the season, the Magic are averaging 93.9 points on 45.6 percent shooting and are allowing 99 points on 45.7 percent shooting. Tobias Harris leads Orlando with 18.5 points and 7.8 rebounds while Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.3 points and 11.6 rebounds. Victor Oladipo is shooting 47.4 percent from the field and Evan Fournier has 30 points in his last two games. The Orlando Magic are still struggling offensively, scoring less than 100 points in 10 of their last 12 games but are shooting 37.9 percent from deep in their last five. The Magic’s inconsistent ways are what’s keeping them from being a possible playoff team in the East. This will be Orlando’s 18th road game this season, which will be the most of any team in the league.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-3.50)
Away - (+3.50)
Pick - Boston Celtics (-3.50)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 10/10
__________________________________________________ _______
NBA
12-18-2014

Detroit Pistons vs Dallas Mavericks

Home - Detroit Pistons
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-L-L

The Detroit Pistons bounced back from a 13-game losing streak with a couple wins on the trot, but they fell right back to earth when t hey got routed by the Clippers by 113-91 on Monday. Jodie Meeks had a nice game of 20 points off the bench while Andre Drummond added 18 points and 13 rebounds, but this game was over before the fourth quarter as the Pistons fell behind by as many as 27 points in this one-sided affair. With the loss, Detroit falls to 5-20 overall and 3-9 on the road.

Away - Dallas Mavericks
Last away matches - W-L-W-W-W-W

The Dallas Mavericks are looking for their ninth win in their last 12 outings after blowing past the lowly Knicks in a 107-87 rout last night. In a balanced scoring effort, Dirk Nowitzki scored a team-high 16 points in just 23 minutes while Monta Ellis added 14 points as the Mavs battled with the pesky Knicks for most of the game before pulling away late. The bench players really shone in this one, combining for 50 points including 10 and 11 points respectively from JJ Barea and Devin Harris. With the win, Dallas improves to 18-8 on the season and 9-4 on the road.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+7.00)
Away - (-7.00)
Pick - Dallas Mavericks (-7.00)
Odds - 2.04
Stakes - 9/10
__________________________________________________ _______
NBA
12-18-2014

LA Clippers vs Indiana Pacers

Home - LA Clippers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-W-W

The Los Angeles Clippers have won five straight at home and looked to be in mid-season form in Monday's 113-91 rout of the lowly Pistons after losing back to back games to the Wizards and the Bucks. Blake Griffin led the way with 18 points and seven assists while Chris Paul had 11 points and eight assists hit the ground running and led by as many as 27 points in the confidence-building blowout. With the win, LA improves to 17-7 overall and 9-3 at home.

Away - Indiana Pacers
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-L

The Indiana Pacers haven't exactly been piling up the wins this season, but they were able to snap an eight-game skid on Monday with a 110-91 rout of the Lakers. Rodney Stuckey flirted with a triple double with 20 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists while CJ Miles added 20 points off the bench as the Pacers stormed out to 34-15 lead at the end of the first quarter and 60-27 at halftime before letting the foot off the gas the rest of the way. Despite the win, Indiana are still only 8-17 on the season and 5-8 at home. In injury news, George Hill took part in a full-court scrimmage on Tuesday and could be back before Christmas.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-11.00)
Away - (+11.00)
Pick - LA Clippers (-11.00)
Odds - 1.91
Stakes - 8/10

[windell]

NBA
12-18-2014

Golden State Warriors vs Oklahoma City Thunder

Home - Golden State Warriors
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-W-W

The Golden State Warriors looked invincible during their 16-game win streak, but that music stopped on Tuesday in a 105-98 loss to the Grizzlies. Klay Thompson led the scoring with four threes en route to 22 points while Stephen Curry added 19 points and six assists, but while the Warriors started the game well, the Grizzlies flipped the game on its head when they kicked off the second quarter with a 20-0 run. The Warriors would claw their way back to keep it close in the last quarter, but with a little help from the referees, the Grizzlies were just good enough to close out the game in the end.

Away - Oklahoma City Thunder
Last away matches - W-W-W-W-L-L

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been on an absolute tear lately, winning nine of their last 10 and now playing for an eighth straight win after taking down the Kings by 104-92 on Tuesday. Serge Ibaka hosted a block party with a season-high seven blocks while Russell Westbrook continued his hot form with a game-high 32 points, but the biggest positive from the win came from Kevin Durant who scored 26 points while taking a season-high 25 shot attempts. This Thunder team looks like they're already in mid-season form which is scary because Durant has yet to fully find his range.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-2.50)
Away - (+2.50)
Pick - Golden State Warriors (-2.50)
Odds - 1.91
Stakes - 10/10
______________________________________________
NBA
12-18-2014

New York Knicks vs Chicago Bulls

New York Knicks

The New York Knicks have lost 12 of their last 13 games and have shown little signs of turning things around. On the season, the Knicks are averaging 93.6 points on 45.1 percent shooting and are allowing 99.6 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Carmelo Anthony leads New York with 23.4 points and 6.6 rebounds while Amar'e Stoudemire is averaging 13.3 points and 7.4 rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr. is shooting 39.5 percent from the field and Jose Calderon is dishing out 4.1 assists. The New York Knicks lack of offense continues to be the main reason for their struggles, but they’re allowing 102 points on 48.1 percent shooting in their last five games. Still, the Knicks have lost 10 straight when scoring less than 100 points. J.R. Smith is questionable for this game with a heel injury.

Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls have won four of their last six games and play their first contest since Monday. On the season, the Bulls are averaging 102.1 points on 45.5 percent shooting and are allowing 98.5 points on 43.3 percent shooting. Jimmy Butler leads Chicago with 20.9 points and 5.9 rebounds while Pau Gasol is averaging 18.7 points and 11.9 rebounds. Derrick Rose is dishing out 5.1 assists and Taj Gibson is shooting 53 percent from the field. The Chicago Bulls defense has really turned up the notch recently, allowing 93.2 points on 41.1 percent shooting from the field in their last five games. The Bulls are 11-2 SU this season when allowing less than 100 points. However, five of the Bulls nine losses have come at home. Joakim Noah is questionable for this game with an ankle injury.
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NBA
12-18-2014

Milwaukee Bucks vs Sacramento Kings

Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks have split their last six games and are in trouble without Jabari Parker. On the season, the Bucks are averaging 99.2 points on 46.1 percent shooting and are allowing 100.4 points on 45.3 percent shooting. Brandon Knight is averaging 17.5 points and 4.7 assists while Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 12.2 points and 5.9 rebounds. O.J. Mayo is shooting 40.5 percent from the field and Larry Sanders is averaging 6.1 rebounds per game. The Milwaukee Bucks are coming off a Wednesday loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, a game in which they started four guards with the loss of Parker to an ankle injury. The Bucks have allowed 100-plus points in seven of their last nine games and are allowing teams to shoot 47.2 percent in their last five.

Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings have lost four straight games and are still looking for a new head coach. On the season, the Kings are averaging 100.6 points on 45.2 percent shooting and are allowing 101.4 points on 44 percent shooting. Rudy Gay is averaging 21.2 points and 6.3 rebounds while Darren Collison is averaging 15.6 points and 6.2 assists. Carl Landry is averaging 4.2 rebounds per game and Ben McLemore is shooting 46.3 percent from the field. The Sacramento Kings are relying way too much on the three-ball recently, averaging nearly 18 long distance shots in their last five games, but they’re shooting just 43.2 percent from deep during that stretch. The Kings have lost six of their last eight home games SU and need to start winning games like this if they’re going to get back to a .500 record.
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NBA
12-18-2014

New Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets

New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans have split their last 10 games and look for just their second road win of the month. On the season, the Pelicans are averaging 103.3 points on 46.4 percent shooting and are allowing 102.6 points on 47 percent shooting. Anthony Davis leads New Orleans with 24.6 points and 10.1 rebounds while Tyreke Evans is averaging 17 points and 5.8 assists. Jrue Holiday is averaging seven assists per game and Ryan Anderson is shooting 41.8 percent from the field. The New Orleans Pelicans have to improve defensively if they’re going to be a consistent team, as they’re allowing 50.2 percent shooting from the field and 41.6 percent shooting from downtown in their last five games. The Pelicans are a top-10 offensive team but it’s hard to win games with zero defense

Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have won seven of their last eight games and are playing a back-to-back after a win over Denver on Wednesday. On the season, the Rockets are averaging 99.6 points on 42.7 percent shooting and are allowing 95.3 points on 42.8 percent shooting. James Harden leads Houston with 26.3 points and 6.7 assists while Dwight Howard is averaging 19.5 points and 11.5 rebounds. Trevor Ariza is shooting 37 percent from the field and Patrick Beverley is grabbing five rebounds. The Houston Rockets may be as healthy as they’ve been all season, especially with Howard back, who has a combined 50 points and 29 rebounds in his last two games. It’s going to be interesting to see how Houston responds after playing an overtime game late Wednesday.

[windell]

NBA
12-19-2014

Orlando Magic vs Utah Jazz

Home - Orlando Magic
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-W-L

The Orlando Magic are 10-18 on the year with a 3-6 record at home but the young team is really meeting or even exceeding expectations at this point. While it has to be disconcerting that the team has only won three games at home, it’s pretty impressive they’ve been able to stick together and gut out seven wins on the road. The Magic have had plenty of trouble scoring over the course of the year with an offense that ranks 27th while averaging just 93.8 points per game, and the defense has been mediocre allowing 99.4 points per game to rank 14th. Leading the Magic are SF Tobias Harris (18.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg) and C Nikola Vucevic (18.3 ppg, 11.4 rpg) who are 22 and 24 years old respectively, speaking to the youthful core of this squad. Victor Oladipo has been showing continued improvement in the backcourt as well with 14.7 points per game while shooting 46.2% from the field and 45.5% from deep. The Magic are opening up a four game holiday home stand here, with this contest being the first of three against sub-.500 competition and culminating with a date with the Cavaliers the day after Christmas.

Away - Utah Jazz
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-L

The Utah Jazz are off to a terrible start to the year sitting at 7-19 with a 3-10 record in road contests. The Jazz don’t get the job done at either end of the floor as the offense averages just 96.6 points per game to rank 21st and the defense allows 101.7 per game to also rank 21st. Gordon Hayward leads the team in scoring with 19.1 points per game and also chips in 5.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.46 steals. Derrick Favors averages 15.4 points and 8.1 rebounds per game but the big man has sat out two of the last four games and been unproductive by his own standards in the other two which could give pause to fantasy owners. PG Trey Burke has been inconsistent in his second year out of Michigan with 11.3 points and 5.5 assists per game while struggling to shoot the ball at just 36.8%. The Jazz are in the midst of a six game road swing, playing game four in Orlando after going 1-2 in the first three games of the trip.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-3.00)
Away - (+3.00)
Pick - Orlando Magic (-3.00)
Odds - 1.92
Stakes - 8/10
__________________________________________________ ________
NBA
12-19-2014

Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets

Home - Philadelphia 76ers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Philadelphia 76ers are on a four game losing streak entering this contest after picking up their first two wins of the season in the month of December. The 76ers are 2-22 on the year with an 0-13 mark at home that they will desperately be trying to break. As bad as the Sixers have been they have to like this spot to snap their home skid after they hung with the Grizzlies last Saturday only to fall in OT. The Sixers rank last in the league in scoring with 91.3 points per game and the defense ranks 25th while conceding 103.7 points per game. Tony Wroten leads the team with 16.5 points per game but the guard is easing his way back from injury at present. Michael Carter-Williams 15.5 points, 7.7 assists and 7.3 rebounds per game, but the second year point guard is also struggling with turnovers with 6.4 per game over the last five games. Second year SF Robert Covington has emerged as the third leading scorer with 11.3 points per game and Nerlens Noel leads the team in rebounding from the forward position with 6.5 per game in an erratic rookie campaign. The 76ers will open up a seven game road trip on Sunday following Friday’s game.

Away - Charlotte Hornets
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-L

The Charlotte Hornets were expected to contend for a seven or eight seed this season and thus far the season has been a disaster instead. The Hornets are 6-19 on the year and with a 1-10 road record there’s no guarantee of them taking care of business against a team like the Sixers. Making matters worse perhaps is a recent schedule that has seen the team alternate home and road games over the last four outings while also facing strong competition. The Hornets struggle to score with just 94.7 points per game to rank 24th and the defense that was once somewhat of a calling card is also faltering allowing 101.8 points per game to rank 22nd. Center Al Jefferson leads the team with 19.2 points and eight rebounds but you have to wonder if the team is losing rhythm early in games when the offense centers on feeding the big man so heavily. Kemba Walker averages 15.8 points, 5.6 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game, but his shooting hasn’t been great at 38.2%. The addition of Lance Stephenson hasn’t yielded the results the Hornets had hoped and to make matters worse the 4th year guard out of Cincinnati is expected to miss this game with a groin injury. Look for Gerald Henderson to see an increased workload here as a result.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+5.00)
Away - (-5.00)
Pick - Charlotte Hornets (-5.00)
Odds - 2.04
Stakes - 9/10

[windell]

NBA
12-19-2014

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Brooklyn Nets

Home - Cleveland Cavaliers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-W-L

The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost three of their last four games and are coming off a blowout loss to Atlanta. On the season, the Cavs are averaging 103 points on 46.2 percent shooting and are allowing 100.1 points on 47 percent shooting. LeBron James is averaging 25.4 points and 7.6 assists while Kyrie Irving is averaging 19.9 points and 5.2 assists. Kevin Love is grabbing 10.5 rebounds per game and Dion Waiters is shooting 40.4 percent from the field. The Cleveland Cavaliers are back to not playing a lick of defense, as teams are shooting 51.8 percent from the field and 38.8 percent from deep in their last five games. The Cavs have lost five of their last seven games SU when allowing 100-plus points. The Cavaliers remain a team that’s tough to figure out.

Away - Brooklyn Nets
Last away matches - L-W-L-W-W-L

The Brooklyn Nets have lost five of their last seven games and are slowly falling out of the playoff race. On the season, the Nets are averaging 95.9 points on 44.3 percent shooting and are allowing 98.4 points on 44.3 percent shooting. Deron Williams is averaging 16.2 points and 6.9 assists while Joe Johnson is averaging 15.9 points and five rebounds. Jarrett Jack is dishing out 3.4 assists and Mirza Teletovic is shooting 44 percent from the field. The Brooklyn Nets lack of offense has killed them all season, as they’ve scored less than 100 points in 12 of their last 13 games and are shooting 43.1 percent from the field in their last five. The Nets are 5-3 SU this season when scoring at least 100 points. The Nets have also won three of their last five road games SU.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-12.00)
Away - (+12.00)
Pick - Cleveland Cavaliers (-12.00)
Odds - 1.98
Stakes - 10/10
__________________________________________________ ________
NBA
12-19-2014

Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors

Home - Detroit Pistons
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-L-L

The Detroit Pistons have split their last four games and are the third-worst team in the East. On the season, the Pistons are averaging 93.8 points on 41.1 percent shooting and are allowing 100.5 points on 45.5 percent shooting. Greg Monroe is averaging 14.5 points and nine rebounds while Josh Smith is averaging 13.2 points and 4.7 assists. Brandon Jennings is racking up 6.2 assists and Andre Drummond is grabbing 12.3 rebounds per game. The Detroit Pistons continue to struggle offensively, scoring less than 100 points in four of their last six games and shooting just 30.8 percent from deep in their last five contests. At this point, the Pistons are entering tanking mode for a top draft pick. The Pistons two home victories are the second-fewest in the NBA.

Away - Toronto Raptors
Last away matches - W-L-W-W-L-W

The Toronto Raptors have won seven of their last nine games and play their fifth road game of the month. On the season, the Raptors are averaging 107.3 points on 46.2 percent shooting and are allowing 98.7 points on 45.7 percent shooting. Kyle Lowry is averaging 19.6 points and 7.8 assists while Louis Williams is averaging 14.4 points on 41.6 percent shooting. Jonas Valanciunas is grabbing nine rebounds and Terrence Ross is shooting 44.6 percent from the field. The Toronto Raptors remain one of the better offensive teams in the league, as they’re shooting 38.2 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games and have won 15 of their last 18 games SU when topping 100 points. Three of the Raptors six losses this season have come on the road.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+7.00)
Away - (-7.00)
Pick - Toronto Raptors (-7.00)
Odds - 1.91
Stakes - 9/10

[windell]

NBA
12-21-2014

Sacramento Kings vs LA Lakers

Home - Sacramento Kings
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-W-L

The Sacramento Kings have lost 10 of their last 12 overall and will be looking to snap a five-game skid after losing to the Bucks by 108-107 on Thursday. Ben McLemore had 22 points on 8 of 10 shooting while Rudy Gay added 22 points and six assists, but with the game on the line, the ball went to DeMarcus Cousins who missed the game winner but still finished with 27 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. As a team, the Kings shot a sizzling 56.7 percent from the field but in an attempt to play a more up-tempo game, the Kings committed 21 turnovers which led to 17 easy points for the young Bucks. With the loss, Sacramento falls to 11-15 overall and 6-9 at home.

Away - LA Lakers
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-L-W

The Los Angeles Lakers have won three of their last five but are now hoping to avoid a third straight loss after falling narrowly to the Thunder by 104-103 on Friday. Ed Davis had a nice game of 18 points and on 8 of 10 shooting while Ronnie Price and Carlos Boozer added 14 points each, but with the Lakers down by one in the last possession, the ball obviously went to Kobe Bryant who just missed the game-winner, capping a terrible shooting night of 3 for 15. Perhaps the ball could have went to Jeremy Lin who made a tough shot in the previous possession or maybe Nick Young, who got ejected for a flagrant 2 foul, but Kobe could have been 1 for 20 and the ball would have still gone to him for the last shot. With the loss, LA drops to 8-18 on the season and 3-10 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-7.00)
Away - (+7.00)
Pick - LA Lakers (+7.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 9/10
_________________________________________________
NBA
12-21-2014

Miami Heat vs Boston Celtics

Home - Miami Heat
Last away matches - W-W-L-W-L-L

The Miami Heat have lost nine of their last 12 and will be looking to avoid a third straight loss after falling to the Wizards by 105-103 on Friday. John Wall led the team with 20 points and 10 assists while Nene added 20 points in just 26 minutes off the bench as the Wizards overcame a rough shooting night of 3 of 14 from the three point line to take down the Heat who were without Chris Bosh. Defensively, the Wizards really didn't have much of an answer for Dwyane Wade who torched them for 28 points and eight assists, but they managed to work themselves into the game in the fourth quarter and cap the win off with a late clutch steal off Wade. With the win, Washington imrpoves to 19-6 overall and 6-4 on the road.

Away - Boston Celtics
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-W

The Boston Celtics will try for a season-high fourth straight victory tonight when they invade the AmericanAirlines Arena to take on the Heat. In the team's first game since trading Rajon Rondo, six players finish in double figures as the Celtics destroyed the Timberwolves by 114-98 on Friday. Kelly Olynyk led the way with 21 points off the bench while Jeff Green added 18 points, but it was a real balanced offense that only seemed to get better as the C's shot 56.5 percent from the field while scoring 61 points in the second half. With the win, Boston went to 10-14 on the season and 7-8 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-2.00)
Away - (+2.00)
Pick - Miami Heat (-2.00)
Odds - 2.00
Stakes - 8/10
_________________________________________________
NBA
12-21-2014

Orlando Magic vs Philadelphia 76ers

Home - Orlando Magic
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-W-L

The Orlando Magic have lost five of their last six overall and are coming off a third straight loss, falling to the Jazz by 101-94 on Friday. Tobias Harris continued his breakout season with 24 points on 10 of 18 shooting, while Evan Fournier added 21 points, but the Magic were always playing catchup as the Jazz hit the lead in the second minute of the game and never relinquished it. Orlando is currently ranked 27th in the league in points allowed averaging just 93.8 points per game, which is why they're 0-8 when they allow their opponents to shoot over 50 percent from the field. Orlando is now 10-19 on the season and just 3-7 at home.

Away - Philadelphia 76ers
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Philadelphia 76ers will be looking to snap a five-game skid after getting thumped by the Hornets by 109-91 on Friday. Tony Wroten and Robert Covington both had 19 points while Michael Carter-Williams added 14 points and 10 assists, but the Sixers were always fighting a losing battle after allowing the Hornets to pour in 37 points in the first quarter and 66 points in the first half. In fact, slow starts have been the story for the Sixers all season and it's the main reason that five of their last six losses have come by 12 points or more.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-8.00)
Away - (+8.00)
Pick - Orlando Magic (-8.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 9/10

[windell]

NBA
12-22-2014

Charlotte Hornets vs Denver Nuggets

Home - Charlotte Hornets
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-L

The Charlotte Hornets have split their last eight games and are also looking for consistency. On the season, the Hornets are averaging 95.6 points on 43.2 percent shooting and are allowing 100.9 points on 46.6 percent shooting. Al Jefferson is averaging 19.2 points and 8.3 rebounds while Kemba Walker is averaging 16.4 points and 5.6 assists. Gary Neal is shooting 40.1 percent from the field and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is grabbing 5.8 rebounds. The Charlotte Hornets offense is starting to pick up the pace, as they’ve topped 100 points in three straight games and are shooting 38.9 percent from deep in their last five games. The Hornets can get back in the playoff race with a few more victories starting with this matchup. Lance Stephenson is likely out with a groin injury.

Away - Denver Nuggets
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-W-L

The Denver Nuggets have split their last six games and are hoping to get some consistency going. On the season, the Nuggets are averaging 102.2 points on 43.2 percent shooting and are allowing 103.9 points on 43.3 percent shooting. Ty Lawson is averaging 15.2 points and 10.7 assists while Arron Afflalo is averaging 15 points on 44.4 percent shooting. Kenneth Faried is grabbing 6.8 rebounds and Wilson Chandler is shooting 42.9 percent from the field. The Denver Nuggets main issue this season has been their lack of defense, but they’re allowing 41.4 percent shooting from the field and 27.7 percent shooting from deep in their last five games. If the Nuggets are going to climb back into the playoff race and string some wins together, it’s going to continue on the defensive side.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-2.00)
Away - (+2.00)
Pick - Denver Nuggets (+2.00)
Odds - 1.99
Stakes - 10/10
_____________________________________________
NBA
12-22-2014

Houston Rockets vs Portland Trail Blazers

Home - Houston Rockets
Last away matches - W-W-L-W-W-L

The Houston Rockets were on a hot streak of their own but are suddenly looking to avoid a third straight loss after losing to the Hawks by 104-97 on Saturday. James Harden did a great job of sharing the ball to finish with 18 points and 14 assists while Dwight Howard had 19 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, but the Rockets shot just 39.5 percent from the field compared to the Hawks' 51.4 percent. The Rockets did a great job of coming back from 16 points to tie it entering the fourth but they just couldn't stop the Hawks late, particularly Kyle Korver who had 22 points with four three pointers. With the loss, Houston drops to 19-7 overall and 9-5 at home.

Away - Portland Trail Blazers
Last away matches - W-W-W-L-L-W

The Portland Trailblazers have just been piling up the W's all season, winning their last five straight to improve to 22-6 on the season. After taking down the Spurs on Friday in a triple overtime thriller, fatigue was supposed to set into the Blazers but they just hit the ground running again on Saturday and blew away the Pelicans by 114-88. LaMarcus Aldridge had another monster line of 27 points, 12 rebounds, three steals and two blocks while Damian Lillard had 17 points and seven assists as the Blazers jumped out to an early 32-17 lead after the first quarter and never looked back. In fact, the Blazers were up by 32 points heading into the fourth quarter before they took their foot off the gas and showed a little mercy. Portland has now won 10 of their last 12 games, but only three of those wins came against teams with winning records.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-3.50)
Away - (+3.50)
Pick - Portland Trail Blazers (+3.50)
Odds - 2.01
Stakes - 9/10
_____________________________________________
NBA
12-22-2014

Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings

Home - Golden State Warriors
Last away matches - L-W-W-W-W-W

The Golden State Warriors bounced back from their first loss in over a month with a nice 114-109 win over the surging Thunder on Thursday. Stephen Curry made five three pointers and finished with 34 points and nine assists while Klay Thompson added 19 points of his own, but the Warriors should definitely count themselves lucky as Kevin Durant sprained his ankle and left the game in the first half after pouring in an amazing 30 points in less than 20 minutes. Still, at the end of the day, a win is still a win so the Warriors improve their league-best record to 22-3 overall and 9-1 at home.

Away - Sacramento Kings
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-W-L

The Sacramento Kings have lost six of their last eight overall but were able to snap a five-game skid yesterday with a 108-101 win over the Lakers. DeMarcus Cousins continued his stellar season with 29 points, Rudy Gay had 24 points, Ben McLemore had 23 and Darren Collison added 19 as the Kings battled with the Lakers for the majority of the game before pulling away late. Defensively, the Kings had a clear plan to body up against Kobe Bryant and it paid off as he shot a miserly 8 for 30 for his 25 points which really hurt the Lakers' offense as they shot just 37.9 percent. Despite the win, Sacramento is still below .500 for the season, as they are currently 12-15 overall and 7-9 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-11.50)
Away - (+11.50)
Pick - Golden State Warriors (-11.50)
Odds - 1.87
Stakes - 8/10

[windell]

NBA
12-26-2014

Atlanta Hawks vs Milwaukee Bucks

Home - Atlanta Hawks
Last away matches - W-W-W-L-W-W

The Atlanta Hawks have won five straight games and are looking like one of the top teams in the East. On the season, the Hawks are averaging 103.2 points on 47.2 percent shooting and are allowing 97.4 points on 44 percent shooting.Jeff Teague is averaging 16.5 points and seven assists while Paul Millsap is averaging 16.3 points and eight rebounds. Al Horford is grabbing 6.4 rebounds and Kyle Korver is shooting 51.6 percent from the field. The Atlanta Hawks are 12-1 SU this month and are quickly becoming a team that could seriously make a run in the East. While the Hawks offense gets a ton of credit, their defense is allowing 97.4 points on 41.1 percent shooting in their last five games. The Hawks are also 13-2 SU at home.

Away - Milwaukee Bucks
Last away matches - L-W-L-W-L-L

The Milwaukee Bucks are looking for some consistency as they’ve split their last six games. On the season, the Bucks are averaging 99.6 points on 46.5 percent shooting and are allowing 101.2 points on 45.6 percent shooting. Brandon Knight is averaging 18.1 points and 5.3 assists while Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 12.3 points and 5.9 rebounds. O.J. Mayo is shooting 40.2 percent from the field and Jerryd Bayless is producing 2.5 assists. The Milwaukee Bucks have shown progress as of late offensively, shooting 49.2 percent from the field and 42.7 percent from three in their last five games. However, the Bucks just aren’t consistent on either side of the ball, especially on defense where they’ve allowed 100-plus points in seven of their last eight games. John Henson is questionable for this game with a foot injury.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-9.00)
Away - (+9.00)
Pick - Atlanta Hawks (-9.00)
Odds - 2.00
Stakes - 8/10
________________________________________________
NBA
12-26-2014

Detroit Pistons vs Indiana Pacers

Home - Detroit Pistons
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Detroit Pistons have lost their last four straight to drop to a miserable 5-23 on the season which, to put into perspective, is just one win better than the league-worst 76ers. In Sunday's 110-105 loss to the Nets, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 20 points while Andre Drummond added 18 points and 20 rebounds but Josh Smith had another quiet outing of just 13 points and I guess that was the straw that broke the camel's back because he has since been let go by the Pistons and looks to be on his way to sign with the Rockets. This really looks like a win-win sitation for everyone because the change of scenery could rejuvenate Smith's career and the only way for the Pistons franchise is up.

Away - Indiana Pacers
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-L

The Indiana Pacers struggled for most of the season, but they're suddenly in for a strong chance of getting a third straight win after clipping the Pelicans by 96-84 on Tuesday. Roy Hibbert had a nice outing with 14 points and a season-high seven blocks, while David West and Solomon Hill added 13 points each, but the story of the night was George Hill who scored 15 points in his return from a 28-game absence. It wasn't a massive win because the Pelicans are arguably the most inconsistent team in the league, but it was great seeing the Pacers looking so energized in Hill's return. With the win, Indiana improves to 10-19 overall and 6-8 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+3.00)
Away - (-3.00)
Pick - Detroit Pistons (+3.00)
Odds - 1.86
Stakes - 10/10
________________________________________________
NBA
12-26-2014

Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves

Home - Denver Nuggets
Last away matches - L-L-W-W-L-L

The Denver Nuggets have split their last four games and play for the first time since Tuesday. On the season, the Nuggets are averaging 101.3 points on 43.1 percent shooting and are allowing 104 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Ty Lawson is averaging 15.8 points and 10.4 assists while Arron Afflalo is averaging 14.7 points and 3.6 rebounds. Wilson Chandler is shooting 42.6 percent from the field and Kenneth Faried is grabbing 7.1 rebounds. The Denver Nuggets have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league all season. And although the Nuggets are allowing 101.2 points in their last five games, they’ve holding teams to just 28.8 percent shooting from deep. Eight of the Nuggets 12 wins this season have come at home.

Away - Minnesota Timberwolves
Last away matches - W-L-L-L-L-L

The Minnesota Timberwolves have lost six straight games and has just one win all month. On the season, the Timberwolves are averaging 98.4 points on 43.7 percent shooting and are allowing 109 points on 49.8 percent shooting. Thaddeus Young is averaging 14 points and 4.5 rebounds while Shabazz Muhammad is averaging 13.4 points and 3.8 rebounds. Andrew Wiggins is shooting 39.4 percent from the field and Mo Williams is dishing out 6.5 assists. The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to play absolutely not a lick of defense, as they’re allowing teams to shoot 50.2 percent from the field and 41 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games. The Timberwolves have also allowed 100 or more points in six straight games and have lost their last six road games

Asian Handicap
Home - (-10.50)
Away - (+10.50)
Pick - Minnesota Timberwolves (+10.50)
Odds - 2.00
Stakes - 9/10
________________________________________________
NBA
12-26-2014

Portland Trail Blazers vs Philadelphia 76ers

Home - Portland Trail Blazers
Last away matches - W-L-W-W-W-L

The Portland Trailblazers have been red-hot all season and will be looking for a seventh win in eight outings after beating the Thunder by 115-111 in overtime on Tuesday. Damian Lillard continued his rise to superstar status with 40 points and 11 assists including eight 3-pointers, while LaMarcus Aldridge and Wesley Matthews added 25 and 22 points respectively as the Blazers beat the Thunder in a scrappy affair that involved an altercation after the final siren. Portland is now a healthy 23-7 on the season which puts them at second in the Western Conference standings.

Away - Philadelphia 76ers
Last away matches - W-W-L-L-W-W

Believe it or not, the Philadelphia 76ers will be going for a season-high third straight win tonight after beating the Heat on Tuesday by 91-87 in a shocker. Michael Carter-Williams led the way with 20 points, five assists and six steals while Luc Richard Mbah a Moute added 19 points as the Sixers stormed back from a 23-point deficit in the third quarter to beat the Heat and improve to 4-23 on the season. It wasn't even a lucky shooting streak that saved the day, but rather a fantastic showing of lockdown defense that forced turnover after turnover and tough shot after tough shot. Of course, the Heat did shoot themselves in the foot when they got a little trigger happy from the 3-point line, but you have to give credit to these young Sixers who continue to fight against all odds.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-14.00)
Away - (+14.00)
Pick - Portland Trail Blazers (-14.00)
Odds - 1.88
Stakes - 8/10

[windell]

NBA
12-27-2014

LA Clippers vs Toronto Raptors

Home - LA Clippers
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-W

The Los Angeles Clippers have split their last eight games and are coming off a big Christmas win over Golden State. On the season, the Clippers are averaging 106.5 points on 47.3 percent shooting and are allowing 100.8 points on 46.1 percent shooting. Blake Griffin is averaging 22.9 points and eight rebounds while Chris Paul is averaging 18.3 points and 9.5 assists. Jamal Crawford is shooting 41.6 percent from the field and DeAndre Jordan is grabbing 13.4 rebounds. The Los Angeles Clippers have to improve their defense that’s allowing 50.3 percent shooting in their last five games if they want to win consistently. With the Clippers offensive firepower, they’ve won 10 straight games when allowing less than 100 points. The Clips are coming off a game where they held the Warriors to 42.5 percent shooting.

Away - Toronto Raptors
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-W-W

The Toronto Raptors have won six of their last seven games and play for the first time since Monday. On the season, the Raptors are averaging 108.2 points on 46.3 percent shooting and are allowing 100.1 points on 46 percent shooting. Kyle Lowry is averaging 20 points and 7.7 assists while Louis Williams is averaging 14.6 points on 41.5 percent shooting. Jonas Valanciunas is grabbing 8.8 rebounds and Terrence Ross is shooting 44.1 percent from the field. The Toronto Raptors remain the best team in the East and a lot of it has to do with an offense that’s shooting 47.1 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from deep in their last five games. The Raptors are the second-best offensive team in the league and has won seven of its last 10 games when topping 100 points. Landry Fields is questionable with a head injury.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-4.50)
Away - (+4.50)
Pick - LA Clippers (-4.50)
Odds - 1.90
Stakes - 10/10
_______________________________________________
NBA
12-27-2014

Charlotte Hornets vs Orlando Magic

Home - Charlotte Hornets
Last away matches - L-W-W-L-L-L

The Charlotte Hornets have won four of their last five games and hope to keep the momentum going with a win here. On the season, the Hornets are averaging 96.5 points on 43.6 percent shooting and are allowing 100.2 points on 46.3 percent shooting. Al Jefferson is averaging 19.1 points and 8.2 rebounds while Kemba Walker is averaging 16.9 points and 5.7 assists. Gary Neal is shooting 39.3 percent from the field and Lance Stephenson is is racking up 4.8 assists. The Charlotte Hornets have finally found their offensive groove, as they’re shooting 47.1 percent from the field and averaging more than 100 points in their last five games. The Hornets have to keep the scoring going, as only two of their 10 wins this season have come when they’ve scored under 100 points. The Hornets have won four of their last six home games.

Away - Orlando Magic
Last away matches - L-L-L-W-W-L

The Orlando Magic have lost five of their last six games and play their first road contest in 10 days. On the season, the Magic are averaging 93.8 points on 45.4 percent shooting and are allowing 99.2 points on 45.9 percent shooting. Tobias Harris is averaging 18.6 points and 7.2 rebounds while Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.2 points and 11.8 rebounds. Elfrid Payton is dishing out 5.1 assists and Evan Fournier is shooting 44.2 percent from the field. The Orlando Magic continue to struggle offensively, as they’ve produced 94 or less points in seven of their last nine games. Offense is the key for the Magic, as seven of their 11 victories this season have come when they’ve topped triple-digit points. The Magic have lost seven of their last 10 road games.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-5.50)
Away - (+5.50)
Pick - Charlotte Hornets (-5.50)
Odds - 1.87
Stakes - 10/10
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NBA
12-27-2014

Washington Wizards vs Boston Celtics

Home - Washington Wizards
Last away matches - W-W-W-L-L-W

The Washington Wizards have won seven of their last nine games and are looking like a true contender in the East. On the season, the Wizards are averaging 100.5 points on 47.1 percent shooting and are allowing 96.9 points on 43.7 percent shooting. John Wall is averaging 18 points and 10.5 assists while Bradley Beal is averaging 15.2 points and 3.4 rebounds. Marcin Gortat is grabbing 8.3 rebounds and Paul Pierce is shooting 43 percent from the field. The Washington Wizards continue their lights out shooting from deep, as they’re shooting 40 percent from beyond the arc in their last five games. With the explosive offense, the Wizards are 16-1 SU this season when holding a team under 100 points. The Wizards are 13-4 SU this season on their home court.

Away - Boston Celtics
Last away matches - L-L-W-L-L-L

The Boston Celtics have split their last six games and are in clear tank mode without Rajon Rondo. On the season, the Celtics are averaging 103.7 points on 45.9 percent shooting and are allowing 104.3 points on 45.6 percent shooting. Jeff Green is averaging 18.7 points and 4.3 rebounds while Jared Sullinger is averaging 13.7 points and 7.9 rebounds. Avery Bradley is shooting 42.9 percent from the field and Kelly Olynyk is grabbing 5.7 rebounds. The Boston Celtics are struggling defensively, allowing 100 or more points in three straight games, which includes allowing the Nets to shoot 49.4 percent from the field in a loss on Friday. Considering the Celtics are seven games below a .500 record and out of the playoff race, you have to wonder just how hard this team is trying to win.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-10.50)
Away - (+10.50)
Pick - Washington Wizards (-10.50)
Odds - 2.03
Stakes - 8/10