NBA Season 2014-15 Discussion

NBA
12-8-2014

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

Detroit Pistons were looking like favorites to snap a 10-game losing streak with the lowly Sixers visiting last night, but for the second straight game they fell in overtime to make it 11 straight losses in a row. Josh Smith led the way with 23 points while Kyle Singler added 21, but with the game tied at 100-100 with 13 seconds left in the fourth, Brandon Jennings failed to get an open shot and things just went from bad to worse in overtime as the Pistons went zero for 11 from the field to lose by 108-101 in the end. With the loss, Detroit falls to 3-17 overall and 2-9 at home.

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

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been with their full squad for two games now and they were able to make up for their loss against the Pelicans on Tuesday with an easy 103-91 win over the Sixers on Friday. Kevin Durant had a passive game of just 10 points on three of 11 shooting, but other players were able to make up for it with Serge Ibaka added 19 points and Russell Westbrook scoring 27. In a game that the Thunder should have won by more than 20 points, the starters didn't really make any inroads so it was up to the bench players like Reggie Jackson and Jeremy Lamb to come in and take over. The win wasn't as easy as it should have been but the Thunder will take it and improve to 6-13 on the season and 2-8 on the road.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+9.00)
Away - (-9.00)
Pick - Detroit Pistons (+9.00)
Odds - 2.07
Stakes - 9/10
__________________________________________________________
NBA
12-8-2014

Dallas Mavericks vs Milwaukee Bucks

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

The Dallas Mavericks have been leaning heavily on Monta Ellis this season and stock only seemed to go higher when Dirk Nowitzki was rested on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks as Ellis scored a team-high 23 points against the Bucks, including a wild, fall-away jumper at the buzzer to lift the Mavs over the Bucks by 107-105. Chandler Parsons added 14 points and Tyson Chandler added 18 points and 20 rebounds, but with the game on the line, there was no question who was taking the last shot. Since that win, the Mavs actually went on to get ambushed by the Suns at home which snapped a five-game win streak, but they're still a healthy 15-6 on the season and 7-3 at home.

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

Bucks, Brandon Knights led the way with 25 points against the Mavs on Wednesday while Khris Middleton added 21 off the bench, but other than another 12 points from OJ Mayo, nobody else finished in double digits in scoring. Since Wednesday, the Bucks went on to crush the Heat by 109-85 on Friday in a more balanced scoring effort as six players finished in double figures, led by Kendall Marshall who made the most of garbage time to score 20 points on seven of eight shooting. With the win, Milwaukee improved to 11-10 on the season and 6-4 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-9.50)
Away - (+9.50)
Pick - Dallas Mavericks (-9.50)
Odds - 2.06
Stakes - 8/10

 

NBA
12-9-2014

Indiana Pacers vs Atlanta Hawks

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

The Indiana Pacers have lost four straight but are as healthy as they’ve been all year. On the season, the Pacers are averaging 93.5 points on 42.5 percent shooting and are allowing 96.3 points on 45.4 percent shooting. David West leads Indiana with 14.2 points and 6.8 rebounds while Rodney Stuckey is averaging 12.8 points on 41.4 percent shooting. Roy Hibbert is grabbing 7.9 rebounds per game and Donald Sloan is averaging five assists per game. The Indiana Pacers are still trying to figure things out offensively but at least have another scoring option and physical presence with the return of West. However, the Pacers are shooting just 41.5 percent from the field and 27.4 percent from deep in their last five games.

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

The Atlanta Hawks are playing their best ball of the season with six straight wins and will play their third road game of the month. On the season, the Hawks are averaging 103.9 points on 47.7 percent shooting and are allowing 100.2 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Jeff Teague leads Atlanta with 17.8 points and 7.1 assists while Paul Millsap is averaging 16.7 points and eight rebounds. Al Horford is grabbing 6.1 rebounds per game and Kyle Korver is 5-11 from deep in his last two games. The Atlanta Hawks have been one of the better offensive teams in the league but it’s their offense that’s made the difference during this stretch. The Hawks are allowing 42.5 percent shooting in their last five games and have won eight straight games when allowing less than 100 points. The Atlanta Hawks are quietly becoming a contender in the East.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-1.00)
Away - (+1.00)
Pick - Atlanta Hawks (+1.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 10/10
______________________________________________________
NBA
12-9-2014

Washington Wizards vs Boston Celtics

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

The Wizards were perhaps a little overconfident about their chances of a fifth straight win after blowing past the Nuggets by 30 points on Friday and it really put them in a hole early on. The Wizards would fall behind by 25 points in the third quarter before rallying back to 94-93 with 1:12 left in the game, but they just couldn't get over the final hurdle as the Celtics closed the game out to win by 101-93. For the Wizards, John Wall led the way with 17 points and 14 assists, while Rasual Butler added a team-high 22 points off the bench.

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

The Celtics, Jeff Green led the way with a game-high 25 points while Marcus Thornton added a rapid-fire 21 points in just 17 minutes off the bench, but it was once again Rajon Rondo who stuffed the stat sheet with a triple double of 13 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. With the win, Boston has now won three straight to improve to 7-11 on the season and 5-7 at home.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-9.00)
Away - (+9.00)
Pick - Washington Wizards (-9.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 8/10
______________________________________________________
NBA
12-9-2014

Minnesota Timberwolves vs Golden State Warriors

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

The Minnesota Timberwolves have lost five straight games and continue to deal with injuries. On the season, the Timberwolves are averaging 100.2 points on 43.9 percent shooting and are allowing 110.6 points on 50.3 percent shooting. Thaddeus Young is averaging 14 points and 4.4 rebounds while Andrew Wiggins is averaging 11.4 points on 38.5 percent shooting. Shabazz Muhammad has 40 points in his last two games and Corey Brewer is shooting 43.3 percent from the field. The Minnesota Timberwolves are missing a ton of key guys and it really hasn’t helped their defense, which is allowing 111.2 points in their last five games. The Timberwolves have lost 14 of 15 games this season when allowing 100 or more points. Mo Williams is questionable for this game with a back injury.

Away - Golden State Warriors
Last away matches - W-W-W-W-W-W

The Golden State Warriors are playing the best basketball of any team, winning 12 straight games. On the season, the Warriors are averaging 107.1 points on 48.2 percent shooting and are allowing 96.2 points on 41.1 percent shooting. Stephen Curry is averaging 23.2 points and 7.7 assists while Klay Thompson is averaging 21.2 points on 44.6 percent shooting. Draymond Green is grabbing 7.6 rebounds per game and Marreese Speights is shooting 53.8 percent from the field. The Golden State Warriors have clearly forgotten how to lose games and are playing great basketball at both ends. One thing that the Warriors have improved on is their turnovers, as they’re averaging 16 on the season but are turning it over just 12.6 times in their last five games.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+13.00)
Away - (-13.00)
Pick - Golden State Warriors (-13.00)
Odds - 2.04
Stakes - 9/10
______________________________________________________
NBA
12-9-2014

LA Clippers vs Phoenix Suns

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

The Los Angeles Clippers have been on an absolute tear, winning their last seven straight and coming off a 120-100 rout of the Pelicans. The Clippers built an early 18-point lead before seeing that lead disappear by halftime, but they regrouped in the break and dominated th second half 66-46 to win easily. Chris Paul ran the show with 18 points and 16 assists, while Blake Griffin added 30 points on 10 of 15 shooting, but it didn't stop there as JJ Redick added 21 points and Jamal Crawford had 20 to round out the scoring. LA started the season a little shaky but are now looking like they're in mid-season form, but it's still hard to get too excited because it's still early in the season and all LA are doing is beating up on the lesser teams.

Away - Phoenix Suns
Last away matches - L-W-L-L-W-W

The Phoenix Suns have lost four of their last seven and are coming off a 100-95 loss against the Rockets on Saturday in a disappointing display after blowing away the Mavericks just the night before. Perhaps fatigue was a factor, because the Suns looked lethargic to start the game and got punished big time, falling behind by 60-41 going into halftime before rallying late. Eric Bledsoe led the way with 23 points while Gerald Green added 16 off the bench, but Markieff Morris shot just two of 14 to finish with four points after scoring 22 points in Friday's win. Isaiah Thomas missed his sixth game with an ankle injury and isn't expected back anytime soon

Asian Handicap
Home - (-8.00)
Away - (+8.00)
Pick - LA Clippers (-8.00)
Odds - 2.04
Stakes - 10/10

 

NBA
12-10-2014

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Toronto Raptors

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

The Cleveland Cavaliers finally look to be getting into their groove now and it was the Nets who found that out last night in a 110-88 rout in Brooklyn. Kevin Love continued his hot shooting with 19 points while LeBron James added 18, but it was actually Dion Waiters' 26 points off the bench that turned a close game into an easy win for the Cavs. Kyrie Irving had one of his worst games of the season, scoring just seven points on two of 10 shooting but the Cavs hardly needed him after the halftime as they just shut the Nets down defensively and dominated the second half by 60-39. With the win, Cleveland improved to 12-7 overall and 6-3 on the road.

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

The Toronto Raptors have been in some decent form themselves, winning three of their last four including a 112-107 overtime thriller over the Nuggets last night. Kyle Lowry had an off shooting night but led the way with 13 points and 13 assists while Jonas Valanciunas added 18 points on eight of 11 shooting, but you can credit this win to the bench production as Louis Williams and Patrick Patterson scored 26 and 19 points respectively, including a combined eight of 17 from the three-point line. As a team, the Raptors shot a healthy 50.6 percent from the field, which is not that surprising as they are currently ranked second in the league in points with an average of 108.8 ppg.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-6.00)
Away - (+6.00)
Pick - Cleveland Cavaliers (-6.00)
Odds - 1.90
Stakes - 9/10
_________________________________________________________
NBA
12-10-2014

Detroit Pistons vs Portland Trail Blazers

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

The Detroit Pistons have lost 12 straight games and at this point would be better off tanking the rest of the way. On the season, the Pistons are averaging 93.1 points on 40.7 percent shooting and are allowing 99.6 points on 45.2 percent shooting. Greg Monroe leads Detroit with 14.3 points and 9.3 rebounds while Brandon Jennings is averaging 14.2 points and 6.2 assists. Josh Smith is shooting 38.1 percent from the field and Andre Drummond is averaging 11.7 rebounds per game. The Detroit Pistons inability to score the basketball has been painful, as they’re shooting just 38.3 percent from the field in their last five games. The Pistons have topped 100 points just three times this season and have shown little signs of turning things around. The schedule for the next couple of weeks also don’t help Detroit.

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

The Portland Trail Blazers have won four straight games and are playing their best ball of the season. On the season, the Trail Blazers are averaging 103.4 points on 45.2 percent shooting and are allowing 96 points on 43.4 percent shooting. LaMarcus Aldridge leads Portland with 22.3 points and 9.9 rebounds while Damian Lillard is averaging 19.9 points and 6.3 assists. Wesley Matthews is shooting 47.9 percent from the field and Robin Lopez is grabbing 7.1 rebounds per game. The Portland Trail Blazers are Top 10 in both points scored and points allowed, and they have lost just one game over the last month. The Trail Blazers are the top rebounding team with 47.3 boards per game and have won 10 straight when scoring 100-plus points.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+7.00)
Away - (-7.00)
Pick - Portland Trail Blazers (-7.00)
Odds - 1.91
Stakes - 9/10
_________________________________________________________
NBA
12-10-2014

Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks

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

The Memphis Grizzlies have won six of their last eight games and are tied for first in the Southwest. On the season, the Grizzlies are averaging 100.4 points on 47.2 percent shooting and are allowing 93.4 points on 43.9 percent shooting. Marc Gasol leads Memphis with 19 points and 8.1 rebounds while Mike Conley is averaging 16.7 points and 6.3 assists. Zach Randolph is grabbing 11 rebounds per game and Courtney Lee is shooting 54.1 percent from the field. The Memphis Grizzlies are known for their elite defensive play, but they’re shooting 51.5 percent from the field in their last five games and are 9-1 SU this season when scoring 100 or more points. The Grizzlies are going to be a tough team to beat if their offense can continue to produce at a high level.

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

The Dallas Mavericks have won six of their last seven games and remain one of the top offensive teams. On the season, the Mavericks are averaging 110.6 points on 48.1 percent shooting and are allowing 102.5 points on 45.7 percent shooting. Monta Ellis leads Dallas with 21.2 points and 4.6 assists while Dirk Nowitzki is averaging 19.2 points and 5.6 rebounds. Chandler Parsons is shooting 42.9 percent from the field and Tyson Chandler is grabbing 11.9 rebounds per game. The Dallas Mavericks are averaging the most points this season and are a red hot 16-3 SU when scoring at least 100 points. The concern for the Mavericks remains their defense that’s allowing teams to shoot 48.9 percent from the field in their last five games. The Mavericks have to be more balanced if they’re going to compete come playoff time.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-3.00)
Away - (+3.00)
Pick - Dallas Mavericks (+3.00)
Odds - 1.99
Stakes - 8/10

 

NBA
12-10-2014

New Orleans Pelicans vs New York Knicks

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

The New Orleans Pelicans have lost five of their last seven games and hope to get back to a .50 record. On the season, the Pelicans are averaging 100.4 points on 45.2 percent shooting and are allowing 100.3 points on 46.1 percent shooting. Anthony Davis leads New Orleans with 25.2 points and 10.7 rebounds while Tyreke Evans is averaging 15.2 points and 5.8 assists. Jrue Holiday is averaging 6.6 assists per game and Ryan Anderson is shooting 41.6 percent from the field. The New Orleans Pelicans struggles defensively has really hurt their consistency, as they’re allowing teams to shoot 40.4 percent from deep in their last five games and are 3-7 SU this season when allowing 100 or more points. However, the Pelicans have done a fine job this year of beating below-average teams.

Away - New York Knicks
Last away matches - L-L-L-L-L-L

The New York Knicks have lost eight straight games and will begin a three-game road trip. On the season, the Knicks are averaging 93.7 points on 45.1 percent shooting and are allowing 99 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Carmelo Anthony leads New York with 23.2 points and 6.6 rebounds while Amar'e Stoudemire is averaging 12.9 points and 7.9 rebounds. J.R. Smith is shooting 41.7 percent from the field and Iman Shumpert is averaging 3.1 assists. The New York Knicks struggles on offense have been dreadful, as they’re shooting only 43.6 percent from the field in their last five games and have lost 13 of their last 14 games when scoring under 100 points. The good news for the Knicks is that their last four games have been decided by five or less points.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-7.00)
Away - (+7.00)
Pick - New York Knicks (+7.00)
Odds - 1.95
Stakes - 8/10
___________________________________________________________
NBA
12-10-2014

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks

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

The Oklahoma City Thunder are as healthy as they’ve been all year and have won four of their last five games. On the season, the Thunder are averaging 92.4 points on 42.7 percent shooting and are allowing 94 points on 42.3 percent shooting. Russell Westbrook leads OKC with 23.7 points and 6.5 assists while Kevin Durant is averaging 21.7 points and 4.3 rebounds. Reggie Jackson is averaging 6.8 assists and Serge Ibaka is grabbing 7.7 rebounds per game. The Oklahoma City Thunder are shooting 46 percent from the field in their last five games and are averaging more than 47 rebounds. Now that the Thunder are healthy, their overall numbers are going to improve and they should slowly start to make their playoff run. OKC has to stay hot in order to turn its season around.

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

The Milwaukee Bucks have lost four of their last five games and are sitting with a .500 record. On the season, the Bucks are averaging 98.7 points on 45.8 percent shooting and are allowing 99.9 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Brandon Knight leads the Bucks with 17.6 points and 5.8 assists while Jabari Parker is averaging 12.4 points and 5.9 rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo is grabbing 5.8 rebounds per game and O.J. Mayo is shooting 39.1 percent from the field. The Milwaukee Bucks struggles have been on the offensive end for much of the season but they’re shooting 50.3 percent from the field in their last five games and have topped 100 points in seven straight games. If the Bucks can continue to play like that offensively along with their average decent, they have a shot to be a playoff team in the East.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-10.00)
Away - (+10.00)
Pick - Milwaukee Bucks (+10.00)
Odds - 2.00
Stakes - 9/10

 

NBA
12-11-2014

Charlotte Hornets vs Boston Celtics

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

The Charlotte Hornets have lost 10 of their last 11 games and have to get going offensively. On the season, the Hornets are averaging 94.2 points on 43 percent shooting and are allowing 101.2 points on 46.5 percent shooting. Al Jefferson leads Charlotte with 19.6 points and 7.8 rebounds while Kemba Walker is averaging 14.3 points and 5.6 assists. Gary Neal is shooting 41.9 percent from the field and Lance Stephenson is averaging 5.4 assists per game. The Charlotte Hornets offense hasn’t gotten any better throughout the season, shooting just 41.6 percent from the field and 24.4 percent from three in their last five games. The Charlotte Hornets have lost nine straight games when scoring under 100 points.

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

The Boston Celtics have won three of their last four games and are quietly becoming a sleeper in the East. On the season, the Celtics are averaging 105.6 points on 46 percent shooting and are allowing 107.3 points on 46.1 percent shooting. Jeff Green leads Boston with 19.8 points and 4.5 rebounds while Jared Sullinger is averaging 15.4 points and 8.6 rebounds. Avery Bradley is shooting 45.3 percent from the field and Marcus Smart scored 23 points in his first real game back from injury. The Boston Celtics have shown the offensive potential to be a solid team but their lack of defense has prevented any consistency this season. The Celtics are allowing teams to shoot 39.1 percent from deep in their last five games and have lost eight of their last nine games when allowing 100 or more points.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-2.00)
Away - (+2.00)
Pick - Boston Celtics (+2.00)
Odds - 1.97
Stakes - 9/10
__________________________________________________
NBA
12-11-2014

Indiana Pacers vs LA Clippers

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

The Indiana Pacers have lost five straight games and aren’t improving much even though they’re healthy for the most part. On the season, the Pacers are averaging 93.4 points on 42.5 percent shooting and are allowing 96.9 points on 45.7 percent shooting. David West leads Indiana with 13.2 points and 6.3 rebounds while Rodney Stuckey is averaging 12.9 points on 42.4 percent shooting. Roy Hibbert is averaging 7.7 rebounds per game and Donald Sloan is averaging 4.8 assists. The Indiana Pacers are shooting just 41.6 percent from the field and 29.2 percent from three in their last five games, numbers that are even below their season averages. About the only thing the Pacers do well is rebounding, as their 46 rebounds per contest is good for second in the league.

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

The Los Angeles Clippers have won eight straight games and will begin a three-game road trip. On the season, the Clippers are averaging 107.1 points on 48.4 percent shooting and are allowing 99.6 points on 45.2 percent shooting. Blake Griffin leads the Clippers with 24 points and 7.6 rebounds while Chris Paul is averaging 18.1 points and 9.9 assists. Jamal Crawford is shooting 44.4 percent from the field and DeAndre Jordan is grabbing 12.3 rebounds per game. The Los Angeles Clippers are back to their elite offensive ways, shooting 52.2 percent from the field and 41 percent from three in their last five games.The Clippers have won 12 straight games when scoring 100 or more points, and they’ve done so in every game during this winning streak.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+7.00)
Away - (-7.00)
Pick - LA Clippers (-7.00)
Odds - 1.96
Stakes - 9/10
__________________________________________________
NBA
12-11-2014

Atlanta Hawks vs Philadelphia 76ers

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

The Atlanta Hawks are playing their best ball of the season with wins in seven straight games. On the season, the Hawks are averaging 103.7 points on 47.5 percent shooting and are allowing 99 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Jeff Teague leads Atlanta with 17.5 points and 7.1 assists while Paul Millsap is averaging 16.6 points and 7.7 rebounds. Kyle Korver is shooting 55.1 percent from downtown and Al Horford is grabbing 6.3 rebounds per game. The Atlanta Hawks are absolutely on fire offensively, which includes 48.4 percent shooting from the field and 42 percent shooting from deep in their last five games. However, the Hawks are allowing teams to shoot just 44 percent from the field and are 10-1 SU this season when allowing less than 100 points. Defense is key for the Hawks.

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

The Philadelphia 76ers have won two of their last three games and have to be feeling good about themselves given the circumstances. On the season, the 76ers are averaging 92 points on 41.4 percent shooting and are allowing 104 points on 46.2 percent shooting. Michael Carter-Williams is averaging 16.3 points and 7.4 assists while Alexey Shved is averaging 10.4 points and 3.3 assists. Henry Sims is grabbing 5.6 rebounds per game and K.J. McDaniels is shooting 42.6 percent from the field. The Philadelphia 76ers have improved defensively as of late, holding teams to 100 points on 42.3 percent shooting in their last five games. As long as the 76ers can get consistent stops, they’ll have a chance to be a lot more competitive the rest of the way. Tony Wroten is doubtful for this game with a knee injury.

Asian Handicap
Home - (-13.00)
Away - (+13.00)
Pick - Atlanta Hawks (-13.00)
Odds - 2.02
Stakes - 8/10

 

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
_________________________________________________________
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

 

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

 

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
________________________________________________
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
________________________________________________
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

 

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
___________________________________________________
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
___________________________________________________
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

 

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
____________________________________________________
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