01-19-21 |
Blue Jackets -1.5 v. Red Wings | Top | 2-3 |
Loss | -100 | 7 h 42 m | Show |
Columbus battled the puck in the first half of Monday's game but appeared to be more confident and comfortable as the game went on. The Blue Jackets would like to build on that tonight. Tortorella has not yet named a starting goalie, but with the back-to-back, it would make sense for Elvis Merzlikins to return to the net. He gave up five in his first start Saturday and seems eager to get back at it to improve on that showing. |
01-19-21 |
Devils v. Rangers -1.5 | Top | 4-3 |
Loss | -100 | 7 h 34 m | Show |
I think this Devils defense is soundly improved with the additions of Murray and Kulikov. Secondly, I’m still not in love with the idea of Tennyson in the top-six, but the results speak louder than my opinion. Lastly, I will say that I expect this game to play out differently than the two Bruins games, as the only real threats for the Bruins offensively were Marchand and Bergeron. The Buchnevich and Panarin lines have shown they are capable of damage, so the Devils will need to ensure they alleviate any lackadaisical or sloppy play. |
01-19-21 |
Blackhawks v. Panthers -1.5 | | 4-5 |
Loss | -100 | 6 h 25 m | Show |
The Chicago Blackhawks are targeting their first win of the season. It has been a rough start for the Blackhawks, losing their first two clashes in Tampa Bay, followed by the defeat to Florida on Sunday. Chicago is not a contender as they are in a rebuilding mode and are also playing without captain Jonathan Toews along with Brent Seabrook and talented young forward Kirby Dach. |
01-19-21 |
Sabres v. Flyers -1.5 | Top | 0-3 |
Win | 179 | 6 h 22 m | Show |
In a time crunch so I need to get this up quick. Flyers will bounce back at home tonight. |
01-19-21 |
Capitals v. Penguins -1.5 | | 4-5 |
Loss | -100 | 6 h 15 m | Show |
The Penguins conclude their two-game series against the Washington Capitals at PPG Paints Arena. The Penguins picked up points in 11 of 17 games against Metropolitan Division opponents last season (8-6-3). Pittsburgh has been especially good versus Washington at home, where they've won seven of their last nine games (7-2-0) dating back to Mar. 20, 2016. In those games, The Penguins are averaging 4.77 goals per game. Since the beginning of the 2015-16 campaign, no team has defeated Washington more than Pittsburgh (12 wins). |
01-18-21 |
Coyotes v. Golden Knights -1.5 | Top | 2-4 |
Win | 129 | 10 h 5 m | Show |
Vegas is perfect through two games as the Golden Knights are 2-0-0 with four points and tied for first place in the West division with the Minnesota Wild. Vegas has used solid offense evidenced by its five goals scored against Anaheim on opening night and a strong defense as Vegas held Anaheim to a combined three goals through two games. Vegas is considered by many the team to beat out West. |
01-18-21 |
Wild -1.5 v. Ducks | Top | 0-1 |
Loss | -100 | 9 h 8 m | Show |
Until the Ducks find a way to put the puck in the back of the net I'm not sure how you can lay money on the Ducks. I'll take the generous +200. |
01-18-21 |
Sharks v. Blues -1.5 | | 4-5 |
Loss | -100 | 8 h 12 m | Show |
For the first time in 15 years, Joe Thornton is not wearing a Sharks uniform. Thornton played 1,104 games with the Sharks, recording 1,055 points. In October, he signed a one-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Sharks also lost center Melker Karlsson (signed in Sweden) and goalie Aaron Dell (signed with Toronto). |
01-18-21 |
Sabres v. Flyers -1.5 | Top | 6-1 |
Loss | -100 | 8 h 45 m | Show |
The Sabres lost their opening game to the Washington Capitals 6-4 and it appeared that the flaws were defensive depth and goaltending. However, on Friday night, the Sabres lost 2-1 and only gave up 21 shots in the loss. The Sabres might have played the Washington Capitals who are regarded as one of the best teams in the NHL, but they can't afford to keep sliding in a competitive East Division. |
01-17-21 |
Capitals v. Penguins -1.5 | Top | 3-4 |
Loss | -100 | 1 h 41 m | Show |
The Penguins have won six of their last eight games against the Washington Capitals at PPG Paints Arena dating back to 2016. The Penguins will be going with Casey DeSmith in net against the Capitals after Jarry was shelled in his first two starts, allowing nine goals on 31 shots. Such things happen when your team leaves players uncovered in the scoring zones. The Penguins will likely face Ilya Samsonov, anointed Washington’s number one goalie in the offseason. The team allowed former Stanley Cup-winning goalie Braden Holtby to leave via free agency. |
01-16-21 |
Hawks +4.5 v. Blazers | Top | 106-112 |
Loss | -100 | 11 h 28 m | Show |
The Portland Trailblazers will spend at least the next eight weeks without center Yusuf Nurkic after he undergoes surgery to repair a broken right wrist, he injured during Wednesday’s 111-87 loss at home to Indiana. The first team Portland will face without Nurkic are the Atlanta Hawks (5-6). They feature John Collins, one of the best young centers in the league. So, we will get our good first look at new starting center Enes Kanter and his backup, Harry Giles III handle 48 combined minutes as the team’s primary centers. |
01-16-21 |
Bruins -1.5 v. Devils | | 1-2 |
Loss | -100 | 2 h 16 m | Show |
The flip flopping theory won't work in this match-up because the Bruins are simply better and didn't play their best in game one. I've always said the greatest adjustment teams do is between game one and two. That doesn't just go for the team who lost, that also goes for teams who won but can be better. |
01-15-21 |
Hawks +6 v. Jazz | Top | 92-116 |
Loss | -102 | 15 h 57 m | Show |
This will be the Jazz's first game on their own court since they defeated the Los Angeles Clippers at home on New Year's Day. Utah is back from a six-game, 10-day road trip that ended one game sooner than scheduled. I'm not a fan of betting teams in their first game off a long road trip. |
01-15-21 |
Maple Leafs -1.5 v. Senators | Top | 3-5 |
Loss | -100 | 12 h 30 m | Show |
Long criticized for their lack of grit and persistence, the Leafs quieted the critics with their comeback performance led by RW William Nylander’s two goals against Montreal opening night. Toronto can be the NHL’s most explosive team on offense. Last season, they ranked third in goals per game (3.39) and second in scoring chances (30.93) The Leafs have a game under their belt giving them a huge advantage. |
01-14-21 |
Ducks +1.5 v. Golden Knights | | 2-5 |
Loss | -125 | 9 h 16 m | Show |
The fact about the Golden Knights is I still don't know what the dynamic will be between the pipes. Between Fleury and Lehner. Robin gets the start tonight which likely doesn't sit well with MAF. No fans at T-Mobile tonight which takes away a huge advantage for VGK. The Knights have had their way with the Ducks in their history but the dynamics have changed for this one. |
01-14-21 |
Hurricanes v. Red Wings +1.5 | Top | 3-0 |
Loss | -137 | 7 h 50 m | Show |
The Red Wings are led by newly named captain Dylan Larkin, who will center Anthony Mantha and Tyler Bertuzzi, a trio that has combined to give defenses a lot of trouble in the past. |
01-13-21 |
Pelicans +7.5 v. Clippers | | 106-111 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 14 m | Show |
There are times when you have to rely on instinct and this match-up makes my gut uneasy. This is not the number of one of the leagues best teams playing against a team who has not won a game in 11 days. I smell an upset and a definite cover. |
01-13-21 |
Blackhawks +1.5 v. Lightning | Top | 1-5 |
Loss | -120 | 7 h 37 m | Show |
The Tampa bay Lightning didn't have much of an offseason after winning the Stanley Cup. I'm guessing intensity level will take a few games to ramp up again. I'm taking the goal line here but wouldn't be surprised with an outright upset. |
01-12-21 |
Lakers -5 v. Rockets | | 117-100 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 56 m | Show |
in their last meeting, Sunday. Every time Houston missed a shot in the first quarter, there was LeBron James or Anthony Davis grabbing the rebound and tossing the ball ahead to a wide open Laker for a layup. LeBron also did the thing where he made a couple of relatively easy layups then flexed to the crowd of like 12 people after he got the and-1. It cannot be overstated how devastating those were to the Rockets early. It set the tone that the Lakers were going to be the stronger and more aggressive team, and they absolutely were. And it put Christian Wood into unnecessary foul trouble. Finally, Talen Horton-Tucker, a player I thought was entirely a product of the Los Angeles media, outhustled every Rockets player for multiple rebounds and loose balls. |
01-11-21 |
Pacers v. Kings +5.5 | Top | 122-127 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 9 m | Show |
The Kings have lost five out of their previous six games, and their 121.2 defensive rating is the worst in the NBA over that stretch. Head coach Luke Walton needs to get his team protecting the paint better than it has over the last two weeks. Sacramento allows easy penetration from the perimeter, which has resulted in slow rotations and easy buckets for its opponents. The team is giving up 52.3 points in the paint over the last six games. |
01-10-21 |
Spurs v. Wolves +3.5 | Top | 88-96 |
Win | 100 | 9 h 22 m | Show |
The old saying is when a game looks too easy it usually is. The Wolves are on a six game slide while the Spurs have won two straight and they're only -3.5? Of course the public is all over San Antonio but smart money knows this is a trap. |
01-09-21 |
Suns +3.5 v. Pacers | Top | 125-117 |
Win | 100 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
The Phoenix Suns were unable to win their 2nd-straight game as they fell hard versus the Detroit Pistons on the road, in overtime, Friday, as they were not only red-hot from the floor to begin the contest, but went into halftime with an 8-point lead. However, the Suns went cold in the 2nd-half while the Pistons began to heat up as the home team forced overtime before outscoring Phoenix 16-12 in the extra period to pick up the win. The Suns failed to cover as 7.5-point favorites failing to cover for just the 3rd-time in 9 games played in the young season. Look for a bounce back effort tonight. |
01-06-21 |
Pistons v. Bucks -13.5 | Top | 115-130 |
Win | 100 | 11 h 20 m | Show |
We know one thing about Bucks games this season, They'll be lopsided one way or the other. I can't see the Pistons laying a beat down tonight so let's get some of the Bucks. Make sure to purchase my selection on tonight's total or my three game package for a massive discount. |
01-05-21 |
Lakers v. Grizzlies +9 | | 94-92 |
Win | 100 | 13 h 39 m | Show |
So far this season, the Lakers are below average in turnovers committed (19th) and turnovers forced (27th). If Memphis can have another night where it is able to find close to 30 or more assists, that certainly plays into their favor to find success. In their two wins this season, Memphis is +12 when it comes to points off of turnovers. If the Grizzlies can create a bit of defensive disruption like they did in the latter minutes against the Nets and against the Hornets, it certainly will be to their advantage. |
01-05-21 |
Jazz v. Nets +2.5 | Top | 96-130 |
Win | 100 | 13 h 18 m | Show |
Durant is out for this one which is why the Nets are getting 2.5 points instead of giving them. The public will be all over the Jazz, we're going to be smarter than that. |
01-04-21 |
Pacers +1.5 v. Pelicans | | 118-116 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 30 m | Show |
After falling to the Knicks on Saturday night in the final game of a four-game homestand, the Pacers (4-2) will hope to get back in the win column when they visit New Orleans on Monday night for a showdown with the Pelicans (4-2). While starting the season 3-0, the Pacers dominated points in the paint, outscoring their opponents by a combined 76 points on the interior over those first three contests. But they tied Boston and only edged Cleveland by two points in the paint over their next two games before Saturday, when it was the Knicks who owned the paint, outscoring Indiana 56-26 on their way to a 106-102 victory. Squares will likely be all over the Pelicans but we're not squares. |
01-04-21 |
Knicks +6.5 v. Hawks | Top | 113-108 |
Win | 102 | 12 h 51 m | Show |
The Knicks are an improved defensive bunch in comparison to previous years, and New York currently ranks as a top-eight defense on a per-possession basis. That likely isn’t sustainable at that level, but the Knicks are playing better basketball on the whole, as evidenced by a 3-3 record. |
01-03-21 |
Blazers v. Warriors +5.5 | Top | 122-137 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 45 m | Show |
The Blazers just put a beat down on the Warriors, 123-98, but we know how that goes, especially when we see a number that clearly wants the public to jump on Portland which they've done. Like yesterday, we're going to be sharper. |
01-03-21 |
Celtics v. Pistons +8.5 | | 122-120 |
Win | 100 | 4 h 57 m | Show |
The Celtics have failed to cover four of their last six games against the Pistons including a SU loss to Detroit in game one of this two game series. The public will likely be all over Boston but lets be better and take the points with a team who has proven they don't need the points to get a victory. |
01-02-21 |
Knicks +9.5 v. Pacers | Top | 106-102 |
Win | 100 | 7 h 57 m | Show |
New York is hoping to build a contender around forwards RJ Barrett, the third overall pick in 2019, and rookie Obi Toppin, the eighth overall selection in this year's draft. Barrett showed promise as a rookie, averaging 14.3 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists last season. Toppin was the best player in college basketball last year, earning consensus National Player of the Year honors while at Dayton. |
01-01-21 |
Blazers v. Warriors +4 | | 123-98 |
Loss | -102 | 16 h 36 m | Show |
The Portland Trail Blazers have had a mixed start to their season. Facing four Western Conference playoff rivals, the Trail Blazers have recorded decent wins against the Lakers and Rockets but have suffered 20+ point losses to the Clippers and Jazz. Steph Curry's fitness will be pivotal if the Golden State Warriors are to have a successful season without fellow shooter Klay Thompson available. Curry is aware that most of the offensive output will be on him this year and is already living up to the demand. |
01-01-21 |
Clippers v. Jazz +4 | Top | 100-106 |
Win | 100 | 14 h 15 m | Show |
Utah won two of its three meetings with the Clippers in the abbreviated 2019-20 season. The Clippers have lost five straight in Salt Lake City, dating back to 2017. The Jazz come into this matchup with a healthy roster, while the Clippers continue to be without Marcus Morris Sr., who is dealing with knee soreness |
12-30-20 |
Grizzlies +6 v. Celtics | Top | 107-126 |
Loss | -103 | 7 h 39 m | Show |
Boston is playing back to back nights and dating back to last season they didn't finish, or start, as a good home bet. Ja' Morant is out but don't fall for this sucker bet. |
12-29-20 |
Nuggets v. Kings +2.5 | | 115-125 |
Win | 100 | 17 h 39 m | Show |
There are plenty of elements of the Kings game plan from opening night that the Kings can hope to replicate. First among them is the offensive glass. Richaun Holmes, Marvin Bagley, and Hassan Whiteside are all more athletic than their Denver counterparts; they should be able to command the boards and create extra chances for the Kings while also closing out possessions on the defensive end. |
12-29-20 |
Raptors +2.5 v. 76ers | Top | 93-100 |
Loss | -109 | 14 h 45 m | Show |
The Raptors have won none of the last 12 regular-season meetings over Philly over the past three years and took the 2019 Eastern Conference semifinal series 4-3. It is unclear whether Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid will be available after missing the Sixers' 118-94 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. If not already worrying about how a poor Cleveland squad could so easily beat their team, the 76ers fanbase will be more shocked by how obvious their reliance on their 26-year old center is. |
12-28-20 |
Jazz v. Thunder +7.5 | | 110-109 |
Win | 101 | 15 h 53 m | Show |
The Utah Jazz haven't shot the ball well to start the season. Their two main scorers in Donovan Mitchell and Bojan Bogdanovic are only scoring at 30.8% and 26.7% respectively. The ball movement needs to get better quickly as well to make their offense more fluid. You won't keep that duo down long. Both will shoot for a higher percentage pushing this game Over the total. |
12-28-20 |
Pistons +9.5 v. Hawks | Top | 120-128 |
Win | 100 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
The Detroit Pistons could make it tough for the Atlanta Hawks, as their trio of point guards have the wherewithal to bother Trae Young and disrupt his playmaking. This is a let down spot for the Hawks. |
12-27-20 |
Nets v. Hornets +11 | Top | 104-106 |
Win | 100 | 3 h 50 m | Show |
On the offensive end I’d love to see the Hornets repeatedly get Kyrie Irving in pick-and-roll situations and try to wear him down chasing Devonte’ Graham or Terry Rozier every minute he’s on the floor. Irving isn’t known for his defense and the more he has to work on that side of the ball, the less energy he’ll have to efficiently drop 30-plus points. |
12-27-20 |
Mavs +5 v. Clippers | Top | 124-73 |
Win | 100 | 9 h 17 m | Show |
The Clippers' 121-108 Christmas Day victory over the Denver Nuggets came at a cost. All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard was forced to leave the contest midway through the fourth quarter after taking an elbow to the face from teammate Serge Ibaka. Leonard received eight stitches in what club officials described as a mouth laceration. Leonard's status for Sunday's game is unknown. He was listed as day-to-day on the injury report on Saturday. |
12-26-20 |
Suns v. Kings +3.5 | Top | 103-106 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 43 m | Show |
Very few teams can match the shooting depth that the Sacramento Kings possess. Richaun Holmes and Hassan Whiteside are pretty much the only two players who can't pop up for a three but have enough in their tank to make an impact inside the paint. |
12-26-20 |
Rockets +8 v. Blazers | Top | 126-128 |
Win | 100 | 2 h 31 m | Show |
Complete chaos surrounds the Houston Rockets but lets say they put it together for one night, especially getting the generous amount of points. The Portland Trail Blazers will look to bounce back and earn their first win of the season after being routed by the Utah Jazz 120-100 in their season opener. |
12-26-20 |
Wolves +8 v. Jazz | | 116-111 |
Win | 100 | 11 h 48 m | Show |
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12-26-20 |
Raptors v. Spurs +2.5 | Top | 114-119 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 27 m | Show |
During an extremely brief preseason, the Spurs looked nothing like the team that blew expectations away in the Orlando Bubble. While everyone knew patience was required while waiting for either Keldon Johnson and/or Derrick White to return, no one expected the turnaround to happen so quickly. With Johnson returning in the Spurs season-opener in Memphis, they seemingly flipped a switch after a slow start, returning to the energetic, unpredictable style of offense they showcased in Orlando. |
12-26-20 |
Pacers v. Bulls +5 | | 125-106 |
Loss | -100 | 10 h 5 m | Show |
Zach LaVine, although inconsistent at times, has shown All-Star potential and has had several games where he was incredible against some of the best in the league. Coby White and rookie Patrick Williams have also defied expectations of many in the NBA community and could develop into very good players very soon. Don't take to heart what you just saw from both teams in their opener and expect that trend to continue. It's rarely that easy. |
12-26-20 |
76ers v. Knicks +9 | Top | 109-89 |
Loss | -110 | 10 h 45 m | Show |
Remember the Knicks had a winning record against the spread last season which tells me they are on their way up. Teams tend to improve most from games 1-2 so I'm more than happy to take the nine points. |
12-26-20 |
Cavs +2.5 v. Pistons | | 128-119 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 32 m | Show |
Cleveland Cavaliers (1-0) showed signs of massive improvement on both ends in their opening 121-114 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Given how well the team is improving, many believe the Cavs could, in fact, make the 2021 NBA playoffs, despite being in a stacked Eastern Conference. A large part of how impressive the Cleveland Cavaliers' have looked has hinged on the improvement of their younger players. Darius Garland has started to show the potential to be an elite NBA point guard one day. |
12-26-20 |
Magic +2 v. Wizards | Top | 130-120 |
Win | 100 | 9 h 28 m | Show |
The Wizards were outscored 40-24 in the fourth quarter of their opening game loss, which is no recipe for any kind of success. They still don't look as if they have the killer instinct that will allow them to turn the corner as a franchise. The loss showed that they will need more help, especially from the bench, in order to beat the Magic. Every player on the Wizards active roster was able to get on the scoreboard but Davis Bertans and Thomas Bryant scoring a combined 24 points wasn’t enough support to Beal and Westbrook to get the job done. |
12-26-20 |
Thunder +3 v. Hornets | | 109-107 |
Win | 100 | 9 h 23 m | Show |
The Charlotte Hornets will be looking to bounce back after a fairly demoralizing loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a game where Terry Rozier managed 42 points. Devonte’ Graham had a tough night offensively as he registered merely 10 points in addition to 10 assists, and the Charlotte Hornets’ defense looked incapable of keeping up with the offensive versatility of the Cleveland Cavaliers. |
12-26-20 |
Hawks +1.5 v. Grizzlies | Top | 122-112 |
Win | 100 | 8 h 40 m | Show |
The Atlanta Hawks looked impressive in their 124-104 win over the Chicago Bulls in their season opener. It was the perfect start for the young Hawks team that expects to make a leap this year after a disappointing 2019-20 season. Atlanta went all-in on this offense, and it paid off in the first game. Atlanta shot 54% from the field, going 43 out of 80. They had seven players that put up 11 or more points. |
12-25-20 |
Clippers v. Nuggets +2.5 | | 121-108 |
Loss | -105 | 19 h 1 m | Show |
LA is coming off a thrilling victory over the Lakers to kick off the season. Paul George was the star of the night from that game, as he finished with 33 points on 13-of-18 shooting including five made from deep. Switching over to Denver’s side, they’re coming off a heartbreaking loss at the buzzer in overtime to the Sacramento Kings. There might be some tired legs for sure, as all five members of the starting lineup played at least 30 minutes, including two players who were out there for at least 40 minutes. When it looks too easy it usually is. |
12-25-20 |
Mavs +7 v. Lakers | Top | 115-138 |
Loss | -114 | 17 h 50 m | Show |
LeBron James say out the final eight minutes in the Lakers loss to the Clippers and despite him saying he's good to go lets see if that is in fact true. No worries for Doncic as he was fantastic in the Mavs opener against Phoenix. |
12-25-20 |
Nets v. Celtics +3.5 | Top | 123-95 |
Loss | -114 | 15 h 48 m | Show |
For the foreseeable future, home court advantage — such as it is — will come down to, as Spencer Dinwiddie described, the chance to stick to a regular routine, and sleep at home rather than be traveling. Boston opened up the season with a 122-121 win over Milwaukee on Wednesday night, courtesy of Jayson Tatum’s banked-in 3-pointer in the final seconds. The Celtics lost Gordon Hayward as a free agent, and they’ll be without Kemba Walker for a while due to knee troubles, but they added Kyrie Irving’s old Cleveland teammate, Tristan Thompson, to shore up the frontcourt. Tatum had 30 points and seven rebounds against the Bucks with six 3-pointers, and Jaylen Brown had 33, five rebounds, and four assists. Veteran point guard Jeff Teague is another new addition and he had 19 points while making 4-of-4 3-pointers in Boston’s opener. |
12-25-20 |
Warriors +10.5 v. Bucks | | 99-138 |
Loss | -110 | 13 h 55 m | Show |
Curry is again the primary option without Green and fellow All-Star Klay Thompson, who is recovering from a torn ACL. Curry took at least five more shots than any of his teammates in the loss to the Nets. Until another Warrior can prove he can provide perimeter scoring — Oubre and Andrew Wiggins collectively made just 2 of 12 3-point attempts against the Nets — expect Curry to get plenty of shots. Expect improvement from Golden State and Curry from their effort against the Nets. |
12-25-20 |
Pelicans v. Heat -3.5 | Top | 98-111 |
Win | 100 | 11 h 11 m | Show |
Not only has Tyler Herro looked impressive, but so has fellow guard Duncan Robinson. The sharpshooting duo took some time to find their feet in the preseason, but started to dominate as soon as they did. In the few minutes he has received, rookie Precious Achiuwa has looked impressive as well. |
12-24-20 |
Hawaii v. Houston -9.5 | Top | 28-14 |
Loss | -107 | 11 h 27 m | Show |
The coronavirus pandemic is having an effect on this game. The game is usually played in Albuquerque at the University of New Mexico but will move to Texas due to restrictions in the state. It’s the first appearance in this bowl game for both teams. Familiar territory for the Cougars will prove to be the difference. |
12-23-20 |
Mavs v. Suns +1.5 | Top | 102-106 |
Win | 100 | 8 h 17 m | Show |
Whether its pull-ups, catch-and-shoots, drives to the basket or hand-off, one thing all NBA fans have learned over the past few seasons is the Booker will get buckets. As he enters his sixth NBA season, can Booker and the Suns build on the momentum they found in the bubble and couple individual success with team success and end the team’s 10-year playoff drought? A strong showing against Doncic and the Mavs would be a great start. |
12-23-20 |
Jazz -1 v. Blazers | | 120-100 |
Win | 100 | 8 h 57 m | Show |
The Utah Jazz enter the 2020-21 season with essentially the same roster as they had last season. Their biggest offseason move was to sign two-time Defensive Player of the Year center Rudy Gobert to a 5-year $205 million contract. Portland, meanwhile, has two new starters in Robert Covington and Derrick Jones Jr.—three if you count the return of Jusuf Nurkic who missed most of last season. |
12-23-20 |
Kings +8 v. Nuggets | Top | 124-122 |
Win | 100 | 7 h 12 m | Show |
Although Sacramento isn’t expected to make the playoffs this season, the team has a lot of promising talents who could help the Kings surprise a few opponents this campaign. With all teams starting 0-0, it is important for the Nuggets to not take this group lightly. “We’ve had Dec. 23 circled ever since the schedule came and we know we’ll have our hands full tomorrow night against the Sacramento Kings,” Nuggets head coach Michael Malone said. “So, it will be a great challenge to start the year.” |
12-23-20 |
Hawks -1.5 v. Bulls | Top | 124-104 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 11 m | Show |
The Billy Donovan era will tip off for the Chicago Bulls when they host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night in the season opener for both teams. Chicago hired Donovan during the shortened offseason to replace Jim Boylen, who went 39-84 in less than two seasons at the helm. Donovan quickly became the Bulls' top target after a five-year tenure with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who were 243-157 under his leadership and made the playoffs every season. I think it will take some time to gel under the new staff. |
12-23-20 |
Spurs +2.5 v. Grizzlies | Top | 131-119 |
Win | 100 | 11 h 47 m | Show |
The Spurs only need a red-hot Aldridge or DeRozan to pull away from a Memphis team lacking in star power beyond Morant |
12-23-20 |
Pistons +6 v. Wolves | | 101-111 |
Loss | -105 | 6 h 28 m | Show |
Over a year has passed, and in that timeframe, both teams have gone through significant roster overhauls. During Detroit’s offseason, the team most notably acquired forward Jerami Grant, center Mason Plumlee, and drafted guard Killian Hayes and forward Saddiq Bey. In Minnesota, the team has added five new faces, headlined by No. 1 Draft selection Anthony Edwards, No. 28 pick Jaden McDaniels, playmaking guard Ricky Rubio, and veteran Ed Davis. Although the Timberwolves’ final roster has been set, the starting lineup on opening night is still in flux. |
12-23-20 |
Bucks v. Celtics +3.5 | Top | 121-122 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 12 m | Show |
Kemba Walker’s knee remains a bit of a concern and Gordon Hayward has moved on to Charlotte. That said, Boston and coach Brad Stevens have more than enough — Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart — to contend once again starting tonight. |
12-23-20 |
Pelicans v. Raptors -4 | | 113-99 |
Loss | -103 | 12 h 58 m | Show |
The Pelicans, who failed to qualify for the playoffs last season, have a new coach in Stan Van Gundy, who's expected to emphasize defense. The Pelicans lost Derrick Favors as a free agent and traded Jrue Holiday to the Milwaukee Bucks in the offseason. They acquired Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe in trades and Kira Lewis Jr. in the draft. Zion Williamson is looking forward to playing more games and more minutes, hopefully free from injury. As a rookie, Williamson played 33 minutes or more just three times in 24 games. |
12-23-20 |
Hornets v. Cavs +2.5 | Top | 114-121 |
Win | 100 | 13 h 54 m | Show |
After mustering back-to-back 19-win seasons, the Cavaliers aim to start the 2020-21 campaign on the right note against the visiting Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday. The continued development of Collin Sexton will be a major storyline for Cleveland, which saw the 21-year-old take a step forward after the team traded Jordan Clarkson to Utah last December. |
12-23-20 |
Knicks +8 v. Pacers | | 107-121 |
Loss | -104 | 13 h 49 m | Show |
Pacers returning starters T.J. Warren and Myles Turner were back at practice on Sunday and should be good to go against the Knicks after being limited in training camp. Warren did not play in the preseason while dealing with plantar fasciitis, while Turner missed the last two exhibitions after being evaluated for a concussion. The Knicks also have a new head coach in Tom Thibodeau. The former Bulls and Timberwolves head coach brings his defensive-minded style to the Big Apple, hoping to turn around a Knicks team that has not made the playoffs since 2013. |
12-23-20 |
Heat v. Magic +4.5 | Top | 107-113 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 16 m | Show |
This is nothing more than a situation where the Miami Heat can't be pumped up for this one after losing in the NBA Finals a few short months ago. I'll take the home team to surprise. |
12-23-20 |
Wizards +7.5 v. 76ers | | 107-113 |
Win | 101 | 12 h 56 m | Show |
The first glimpses of Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook play together in the last preseason game are past us so it’s time to see how things unfold when it really matters. As expected, Beal and Westbrook saw limited minutes in the last preseason game. Beal, who averaged 36 minutes per game last season, was on the floor for 27 and Westbrook only saw 17 minutes. Will Beal drop 30.5 points a game this season? |
12-22-20 |
Clippers +2.5 v. Lakers | Top | 116-109 |
Win | 100 | 4 h 39 m | Show |
For the Clippers, change is most evident in the revamped coaching staff. Tyronn Lue has replaced Doc Rivers, and Lue's staff is full of mostly new faces that should help the team form a new identity on both ends of the floor. Notable names include Dan Craig, Chauncey Billups and Kenny Atkinson. I think its going to take the defending champs a few games to get back into the swing of it. |
12-22-20 |
Warriors +7.5 v. Nets | Top | 99-125 |
Loss | -110 | 1 h 50 m | Show |
When the games count for real starting Tuesday night, we’ll start to get a look at how Brooklyn’s lineups and rotations will shake out. The final preseason tune-up offered a suggestion of a 10- or 11-man rotation, with Spencer Dinwiddie and DeAndre Jordan in the starting lineup and Caris LeVert and Jarrett Allen coming off the bench. Along with Steph Curry, Golden State’s starting lineup is likely to include Andrew Wiggins, Kelly Oubre, and rookie James Wiseman, the No. 2 overall pick, none of whom were with the team two years ago. Curry is making his own comeback after playing just five games last season after he broke his hand, and the Warriors fell to 15-50, the league’s worst record, after their five straight NBA Finals appearances. |
12-21-20 |
New Mexico v. Boise State -10 | Top | 53-77 |
Win | 100 | 8 h 30 m | Show |
Lobos are 14-30 ATS in their last 44 road games. In addition, the Lobos are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games as a road underdog. |
12-21-20 |
Arkansas-Little Rock +1 v. Missouri State | | 77-85 |
Loss | -110 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
Missouri State are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Sun Belt conference. |
12-21-20 |
St. Joe's +22 v. Tennessee | | 66-102 |
Loss | -108 | 5 h 10 m | Show |
The Hawks have the ability to score with frequency. From 3-point range they can be streaky. The stats say that St. Joe's isn't a great 3-point shooting team, but don't be surprised if the Hawks get trigger happy at times from beyond the arch. For most teams this is a bad thing, but for the Hawks it sometimes works in their favor. |
12-21-20 |
North Texas +21.5 v. Appalachian State | | 28-56 |
Loss | -112 | 3 h 52 m | Show |
The Mean Green passing game was the best in Conference USA, the downfield throws open things up, and there’s balance. North Texas led the conference in rushing, too. It didn’t matter if it was Austin Aune of Jason Bean under center |
12-21-20 |
VMI +9 v. George Mason | Top | 66-68 |
Win | 100 | 1 h 50 m | Show |
George Mason has had their last two games canceled and they are 2-1 on the season. The two wins have been less than impressive ones beating D2 Queens by one point in the opener and while winning in double digits in their last game they faced Howard, who is 1-4. |
12-21-20 |
Morehead State +24.5 v. Clemson | Top | 51-66 |
Win | 100 | 1 h 38 m | Show |
The Eagles are a balanced scoring team, with seven different players averaging 6.7 points per game or more. Morehead State is also above-average on 2-point field goal attempts, converting 51.3 percent, and they are a strong offensive rebounding team, snatching 31.4 percent of its own missed shots. |
12-19-20 |
Washington State +10.5 v. Utah | | 28-45 |
Loss | -100 | 3 h 20 m | Show |
It’s almost impossible to power away on the Utah defensive front, and Washington State isn’t going to try. It’s about spacing things out, quick-hitting throws, and finding the holes for Deon McIntosh and company to run through. For Utah, there aren’t a slew of deep plays with the passing game and too many interceptions – six in the four games – and it’s not the type of attack that’s going to run away with this and hide with a big 24-point first quarter. |
12-18-20 |
Oregon +3 v. USC | | 31-24 |
Win | 100 | 6 h 48 m | Show |
Oregon is the leading offense in the Pac-12 and the most balanced unit in the conference as well. Tyler Shough is the engine that drives Oregon this season. He’s the most efficient passer in the conference and his mobility has made a big impact to Oregon’s run game. |
12-17-20 |
Pistons v. Wizards -4 | | 97-86 |
Loss | -110 | 6 h 10 m | Show |
It’ll be on the Wizards home floor where hopefully we’ll see Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook get to play together. In their opening preseason game, Washington lost 119-114 to the Brooklyn Nets without Beal and Westbrook. Granted a loss is a loss, but the fact they were able to keep up with majority reserve players does say a lot. |
12-16-20 |
Northern Colorado v. Denver +6 | Top | 83-75 |
Loss | -109 | 7 h 45 m | Show |
Denver are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games when playing as the underdog.Ill take 6-pts from one of the nation's best FT shooting teams. |
12-16-20 |
San Diego v. Cal Poly +6.5 | | 70-61 |
Loss | -115 | 4 h 55 m | Show |
San Diego has had three games canceled and one game postponed due to COVID-19. They were crushed in their first game facing UCLA and then lost by seven points to Nevada in their last game. After two games the Toreros have issues on defense giving up 83 points and 79 points, respectively. |
12-16-20 |
Northeastern +17.5 v. Syracuse | Top | 56-62 |
Win | 100 | 1 h 3 m | Show |
Northeastern has attempted the third-most free throws in all of Division I. The Huskies have averaged 29 free throws per game. |
12-14-20 |
Suns v. Jazz -1.5 | Top | 92-111 |
Win | 100 | 3 h 56 m | Show |
Chris Paul and Dario Saric being listed as out Saturday against the Jazz. Paul has right ankle soreness while Saric has right quad soreness. Cam Johnson is also listed as questionable with left knee soreness, but is also projected to start along with Devin Booker, Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges and Cameron Payne, who is getting the start at point guard for Paul. |
12-13-20 |
Wizards v. Nets -6.5 | | 114-119 |
Loss | -110 | 3 h 44 m | Show |
These full-strength Nets feature the returns of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, plus newly acquired Landry Shamet and Bruce Brown. Tyler Johnson fits somewhere in between, having joined the Nets for the first time over the summer. |
12-12-20 |
Fresno State v. New Mexico +13.5 | Top | 39-49 |
Win | 100 | 14 h 43 m | Show |
The Lobos were able to run on a Wyoming defense that should’ve been able to shut down the ground game. The Fresno State run defense has struggled. Utah State and UNLV aren’t exactly dominant on the ground, but they were able to get things going, and Hawaii ripped off 323 yards in the opener. New Mexico won’t throw on the Bulldogs, but if they can rip off yards in chunks they'll cover this double digit number. |
12-12-20 |
LSU +23.5 v. Florida | Top | 37-34 |
Win | 100 | 10 h 17 m | Show |
Florida’s mindset might be on the SEC Championship next week, there’s not enough of a ground game to worry about, and there’s just enough of a Tiger pass rush to get a little bit of pressure on Kyle Trask. For all of the great things the Gators are doing, they’re not quite putting games away like Alabama is. |
12-12-20 |
North Carolina +3 v. Miami-FL | Top | 62-26 |
Win | 100 | 7 h 4 m | Show |
Miami might have a gaudy record and a slew of fun playmakers including an elite quarterback, but they haven’t had to deal with a whole lot of high-end offenses. The Canes gave up 550 yards to Clemson, over 500 to Louisville, and over 400 to NC State. They won two of them, but now they have to deal with the most balanced and dangerous attack outside of Clemson’s. |
12-12-20 |
UAB -7 v. Rice | | 21-16 |
Loss | -109 | 4 h 27 m | Show |
The Blazers have been great at preventing the big play through the air and force takeaways, and the defensive front is good enough to get into the backfield and be a problem. No one other than Miami has been able to run for 200 yards on the UAB front, and the line did a decent job of holding up over the last three weeks before missing a whole lot of time. |
12-11-20 |
Nevada v. San Jose State -1.5 | | 20-30 |
Win | 100 | 17 h 41 m | Show |
It couldn’t be simpler for the Spartans — a win puts SJSU into the Mountain West title game. It would also cap a remarkable undefeated regular season at 6-0. For a program that has gone 8-29 over the previous three seasons, just saying “San Jose State” and “undefeated” in the same sentence takes some getting used to. |
12-10-20 |
Florida Atlantic v. Southern Miss +9.5 | Top | 31-45 |
Win | 100 | 6 h 13 m | Show |
The FAU passing game has hit 200 yards once – against a hapless UMass team – and the O as a whole is only averaging 329 yards and 18 points per game. The Southern Miss defense hasn’t been a rock, but it’s been able to hold up well against mediocre offenses – it hasn’t t allowed more than 304 yards in any of the last three games. |
12-07-20 |
Northern Arizona +23 v. Arizona | | 53-96 |
Loss | -110 | 15 h 16 m | Show |
Arizona is missing three of its top players -- Kerr Kriisa (awaiting NCAA clearance), Daniel Batcho (knee injury) and Ira Lee (concussion) -- as they progress through the early part of the season. Cameron Shelton, who also averaged 6.2 rebounds per game, will have to hold up against Arizona's sizable paint presence along with 6-7 Carson Towt and 6-9 Nik Mains. |
12-07-20 |
Chattanooga +2 v. Middle Tennessee | | 80-70 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 16 m | Show |
Chattanooga has committed a turnover on just 15.3 percent of its possessions this season, which is the top rate among all SoCon teams. The Mocs have turned the ball over only 11.3 times per game this season. |
12-07-20 |
Washington Football Team +7 v. Steelers | | 23-17 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 5 m | Show |
The Washington defense continues to be terrific. The D is second in the NFL in first downs allowed, it’s been great at keeping the big pass plays to a minimum, and the run defense hasn’t allowed more than 70 yards in either of the last two games. The two takeaways in each of the last two help, too. |
12-05-20 |
Wyoming v. New Mexico +18 | | 16-17 |
Win | 100 | 12 h 47 m | Show |
It has yet to take over a game, but the rushing attack was able to come up with 279 yards against Hawaii with the offense keeping up throughout. The defense hasn’t been bad at taking the ball away, and the Cowboy offensive front will give up plays behind the line. The Lobo O might not be phenomenal, but it needs to be okay, and the D has to be disruptive. |
12-05-20 |
UCLA v. Arizona State -2.5 | Top | 25-18 |
Loss | -110 | 10 h 20 m | Show |
If all goes well, UCLA will bring its starting quarterback out of a two-week quarantine to play an opponent staging its home opener in early December after having its last three games canceled. UCLA’s two victories this season came against California and Arizona, teams that are a combined 0-6. |
12-05-20 |
Oregon State +11.5 v. Utah | | 24-30 |
Win | 100 | 9 h 13 m | Show |
Utah blew a 21-0 halftime lead amid a flurry of second-half turnovers and late defensive breakdowns. Turnovers are a recurring problem for the Utes so far in 2020. Utah has coughed up the ball nine times in two games. It took the Utes nine games last season before they totaled nine turnovers. |
12-05-20 |
Boston College v. Virginia -3.5 | Top | 32-43 |
Win | 100 | 5 h 34 m | Show |
Boston College isn’t getting into the backfield at all. The program that used to be known for a whole lot of sacks and a whole bunch of big plays behind the line is last in the ACC at generating tackles for loss and doesn’t have enough of a pass rush to matter. Virginia leads the ACC in tackles for loss allowed and has one of the best pass rushes in the nation. |
12-05-20 |
Ohio State v. Michigan State +23.5 | Top | 52-12 |
Loss | -110 | 2 h 30 m | Show |
Ohio State still has to clear two more rounds of daily testing before they actually take the field. Until the Buckeyes release their Game Day Status Report on Saturday morning, we still don't know exactly who won't be available for Ohio State this weekend. Too much uncertainty from Ohio State to lay this big number. |
12-04-20 |
UL-Lafayette +3 v. Appalachian State | Top | 24-21 |
Win | 100 | 14 h 48 m | Show |
Louisiana's offense is firing. The Cajuns have mauled opposing defenses in their last four games. The Cajuns are averaging better than 44 points and 500 yards over that span. |
12-03-20 |
Louisiana Tech v. North Texas +1 | | 42-31 |
Loss | -107 | 4 h 51 m | Show |
The Bulldog offense has struggled in all phases, and it really hasn’t done anything on the ground, averaging fewer than three yards per carry with no games over 100 yards over the last five weeks. The six rushing scores came in two games with none in the other five. The Mean Green offense is among the best in Conference USA, with the versatility to run for over 200 yards four times and throw for over 300 five times. Louisiana Tech can’t keep up if this gets into a shootout. |
12-02-20 |
Oregon State +1 v. Washington State | Top | 55-59 |
Loss | -105 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
Washington State sits somewhere between a solid California group and the cupcake Northwest team that the Beavers have already faced, yet on the road in a new environment, this will be a solid test for this new look Oregon State roster. |