Penguins-Red Wings, Cavs-Magic Top Betting Games Saturday

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Magic try again to finish off the Cavs, while the Pens skate into Detroit for the opening game of the Stanley Cup final.

Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

The Cavaliers will try to tie up their best-of-seven series with the Magic on Saturday night when the Eastern Conference Finals shifts back to Orlando for Game 6. LeBron James poured in 37 points on Thursday night to lead the Cavs to a 112-102 victory and cut Orlando's series lead to 3-2. Mo Williams added 24 points in the win for Cleveland, while Zydrunas Ilgauskas picked up 16 points. Hedo Turkoglu had 29 points for the Magic, and Dwight Howard added 24 points and 10 rebounds. Game 7, if required, would be played in Cleveland on Monday.

 

Superstar Stevie Vincent is ready for today's card to say the least. The Cleveland/Orlando game side is a Level 3, the over/under a Level 4. The Great One has Level 4 and 5 plays in pro baseball. This season, the founder of forensic sports handicapping has hit 13 of his 16 pro baseball Level 5 plays. He has hit a stunning 36-of-60 Level 4 and 5 plays in pro basketball. Get all four winners up now. Click now to purchase Stevie's picks now.

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

White Sox ace Mark Buehrle gets the ball on Saturday as his team continues its road series in Kansas City. The lefthander has allowed more than three runs in just one start so far this season, and he's sitting at 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA. Buerhle got a no-decision vs. the Royals back in his season debut on April 7. Gil Meche (2-5, 4.55 ERA) hasn't picked up a win since May 3, but the righthander held his own in that duel with Buerhle back on April 7 - one earned run in seven innings.

Elsewhere around the American League on Saturday it'll be Boston at Toronto, Minnesota at Tampa Bay, Detroit at Baltimore, Oakland at Texas, Seattle at the Angels, and the Yankees at Cleveland. CC Sabathia (4-3, 3.42 ERA) takes the mound for New York; he's allowed just six earned runs over his past 32 innings. Fausto Carmona (2-4, 6.42 ERA) was rocked by the Rays in his previous outing, allowing five runs in 1 1-3 innings. Carmona beat the Yankees back on April 18.

Over in the National League on Saturday it'll be Florida at the Mets, Atlanta at Arizona, the Dodgers at the Cubs, Houston at Pittsburgh, Washington at Philadelphia, Cincinnati at Milwaukee, San Diego at Colorado, and St. Louis at San Francisco. Cardinals starter Chris Carpenter is 2-0 through four starts and hasn't given up an earned run this season (through 23 innings pitched). Giants counterpart Barry Zito has now lost three in a row and sits at 1-5 with a 4.02 ERA.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

It'll be Penguins vs. Red Wings once again in the Stanley Cup final this season, with Pittsburgh looking for a better result this time around. Those two teams will meet in Detroit on Saturday night to drop the puck on the championship series, with the Wings pegged as -165 home favorites for the opener. The oddsmakers also have Detroit listed as -150 favorites to win the series, despite the injuries to star players Pavel Datsyuk (foot) and Nicklas Lidstrom (lower body). The healthy Pens swept the Canes last round, while the Wings knocked out the Hawks in five.

White Sox-Royals Odds Preview

The Kansas City Royals will be fighting to snap a losing streak on Saturday when they take on the Chicago White Sox at Kauffman Stadium. The White Sox will give the ball to ace starter Mark Buehrle in this one. Lefthander Buehrle is 6-1 this season with a 2.59 ERA. Meanwhile, it'll be ace Gil Meche who starts for the Royals. Righthander Meche is 2-5 with a 4.55 ERA so far this season. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. The White Sox scored six runs in the sixth inning to earn a 11-2 victory over the Royals on Friday, as a +110 underdog. The 13 runs sailed OVER the posted over/under (9). Josh Fields went 3-for-5 at the plate with two RBIs for the White Sox. Clayton Richard tossed the win, giving up six hits and two runs over seven innings. Billy Butler cracked a two-run homer in a losing effort for the White Sox, who had been -130 favorites. Brian Bannister allowed nine this and seven runs over five innings for the victory. Current streak: Kansas City has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Chicago: 22-25 SU Kansas City: 23-25 SU Chicago most recently: When playing on Saturday are 4-6 Before playing Kansas City are 4-6 After playing Kansas City are 3-7 After a win are 3-7 Kansas City most recently: When playing on Saturday are 4-6 Before playing Chi White Sox are 5-5 After playing Chi White Sox are 7-3 After a loss are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Chi White Sox are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games Chi White Sox are 4-11 SU in their last 15 games on the road Chi White Sox are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing Kansas City Kansas City is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Chi White Sox Kansas City is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games Kansas City is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home Next up: Kansas City home to Chi White Sox, Sunday, May 31

Twins-Rays Odds Preview

The Minnesota Twins and the Tampa Bay Rays will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Tropicana Field. Ace lefthander Francisco Liriano will take the mound for the Twins to start this game. Liriano is 2-6 this season with a 6.42 ERA. It'll be David Price toeing the rubber for the Rays in this contest. Lefthander Price is 0-0 with a 5.41 ERA so far this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Rays listed as 130-moneyline favorites versus the Twins, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Evan Longoria belted a three run homer to lift the Rays to a 5-3 victory over the Twins on Friday, as -150 favorites. That game's eight runs went UNDER the posted over/under (9). Carl Crawford had two hits with three runs scored and one run batted in for the Rays. Josh Fields gave up seven hits and two runs over seven innings in the win. Justin Morneau drove in one run and finished 2-for-4 at the plate. Scott Baker gave up seven hits and four runs over 5 2-3 innings on the mound for the Twins, who were +130 underdogs. Current streak: Minnesota has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Minnesota: 24-26 SU Tampa Bay: 24-27 SU Minnesota most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing Tampa Bay are 3-7 After playing Tampa Bay are 5-5 After a loss are 4-6 Tampa Bay most recently: When playing on Saturday are 9-1 Before playing Minnesota are 4-6 After playing Minnesota are 5-5 After a win are 5-5 A few trends to consider: Minnesota is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay Minnesota is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road Tampa Bay is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home Tampa Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Minnesota Tampa Bay is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games Next up: Tampa Bay home to Minnesota, Sunday, May 31

Braves-Diamondbacks Odds Preview

The Atlanta Braves and the Arizona Diamondbacks will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Chase Field. Righthander Javier Vazquez will take the mound for the Braves to start this game. Vazquez is 4-4 this season with a 3.80 ERA. Starting this game for the Diamondbacks will be Doug Davis. The lefthander has a 3.77 ERA to go along with a 2-6 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Braves listed as 120-moneyline favorites versus the Diamondbacks, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Braves scored nine runs over two innings and earned a 10-6 victory over the Diamondbacks on Fiday, as -125 favorites. That game's 16 runs sailed OVER the posted over/under (9). Yunel Escobar went 2-for-5 with three RBIs to lead the Braves, and Jeff Francoeur drove in two runs. Jair Jurrjens allowed five runs off eight hits in five innings of work. Chad Tracy hit a three-run homer and collected four runs for the Diamondbacks, ho were +105 underdogs. Jon Garland was rocked for nine hits and nine runs over 2 2-3 innings in the loss. Team records: Atlanta: 24-24 SU Arizona: 21-28 SU Atlanta most recently: When playing on Saturday are 3-7 Before playing Arizona are 6-4 After playing Arizona are 4-6 After a win are 6-4 Arizona most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing Atlanta are 2-8 After playing Atlanta are 5-5 After a loss are 5-5 A few trends to consider: Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Arizona Atlanta is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing Arizona Atlanta is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road Atlanta is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games Arizona is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing Atlanta Arizona is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games Arizona is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Atlanta Arizona is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games at home Next up: Arizona home to Atlanta, Sunday, May 31

Dodgers-Cubs Lines Preview

The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Wrigley Field. The Dodgers will trot Eric Stults out to the mound in this one. Lefthander Stults has a 4-1 record and a 4.29 ERA this season. Stults's opponent in this one will be Ryan Dempster. The Cubs righthander has a 4.99 ERA to go along with a 3-3 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Cubs listed as 145-moneyline favorites versus the Dodgers, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Cubs scored twice in the seventh inning and held on for a 2-1 victory over the Dodgers on Friday, at EVEN odds. That game's three runs went UNDER the day's posted over/under (8). Koyie Hill belted a solo home run, and Kosuke Fukudome drove in the other run for the Cubs. Ted Lilly notched the win with a seven-inning performance, allowing four hits and one run. Matt Kemp went deep in a losing cause for the Dodgers, who were -120 favorites. Chad Billingsley gave up eight hits and both runs in suffering the loss. Team records: Los Angeles: 34-16 SU Chicago: 24-23 SU Los Angeles most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Chi Cubs are 6-4 After playing Chi Cubs are 5-5 After a loss are 7-3 Chicago most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing LA Dodgers are 3-7 After playing LA Dodgers are 6-4 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: LA Dodgers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games on the road LA Dodgers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Chi Cubs LA Dodgers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games Chi Cubs are 11-4 SU in their last 15 games at home Chi Cubs are 3-9 SU in their last 12 games Chi Cubs are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing LA Dodgers Next up: Chi Cubs home to LA Dodgers, Sunday, May 31

Red Sox-Blue Jays Lines Preview

The Florida Marlins and the New York Mets will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Citi Field. The Marlins will pin their hopes on the pitching of righthander Josh Johnson in this game. Johnson has a 3-1 record and a 2.67 ERA this season. Meanwhile, it'll be Tim Redding who starts for the Mets. Righthander Redding is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA so far this season. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Omir Santos drove in the winning run in the 11th inning to give the Mets a 2-1 victory over the Marlins on Friday, as -180 favorites. The team's played UNDER the posted over/under (9). Santos drove in both runs for the Mets, while Pedro Feliciano got the win in relief. Brian Sanches allowed the winning run and was tagged with the loss. Sportsbooks listed the Marlins as +160 underdogs in that contest. Current streak: New York has won 4 straight games. Team records: Florida: 22-27 SU New York: 27-20 SU Florida most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing NY Mets are 6-4 After playing NY Mets are 7-3 After a loss are 4-6 New York most recently: When playing on Saturday are 1-9 Before playing Florida are 5-5 After playing Florida are 5-5 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Florida is 5-13 SU in its last 18 games Florida is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road NY Mets are 6-1 SU in its last 7 games NY Mets are 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home Next up: NY Mets home to Florida, Sunday, May 31 The Florida Marlins and the New York Mets will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Citi Field. The Marlins will pin their hopes on the pitching of righthander Josh Johnson in this game. Johnson has a 3-1 record and a 2.67 ERA this season. Meanwhile, it'll be Tim Redding who starts for the Mets. Righthander Redding is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA so far this season. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Omir Santos drove in the winning run in the 11th inning to give the Mets a 2-1 victory over the Marlins on Friday, as -180 favorites. The team's played UNDER the posted over/under (9). Santos drove in both runs for the Mets, while Pedro Feliciano got the win in relief. Brian Sanches allowed the winning run and was tagged with the loss. Sportsbooks listed the Marlins as +160 underdogs in that contest. Current streak: New York has won 4 straight games. Team records: Florida: 22-27 SU New York: 27-20 SU Florida most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing NY Mets are 6-4 After playing NY Mets are 7-3 After a loss are 4-6 New York most recently: When playing on Saturday are 1-9 Before playing Florida are 5-5 After playing Florida are 5-5 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Florida is 5-13 SU in its last 18 games Florida is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road NY Mets are 6-1 SU in its last 7 games NY Mets are 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home Next up: NY Mets home to Florida, Sunday, May 31

Cavaliers-Magic Odds Preview

The Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Amway Arena. Oddsmakers currently have the Magic listed as 2½-point favorites versus the Cavaliers, while the game's total has not yet been posted. LeBron James poured in a game-high 37 points in a triple-double performance to propel the Cavaliers to a 112-102 victory over the Magic on Thursday and cut the series deficit to 3-2. The Cavaliers covered the 7.5-point spread, while the 214 points sailed OVER the posted total of 197. James finshed with 14 rebounds and 12 assists in that win. Mo Williams chipped in with 24 points. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 29 points, and Dwight Howard had a double-double with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Team records: Cleveland: 66-16 SU, 49-33 ATS Orlando: 59-23 SU, 49-32-1 ATS Cleveland most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 After playing Orlando are 7-3 After a win are 7-3 Orlando most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 After playing Cleveland are 6-4 After a loss are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 6 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cleveland's last 6 games when playing Orlando The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games Cleveland is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games Orlando is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland Orlando is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland Orlando is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Cleveland Orlando is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games

NFL Oddsmakers Say Patriots Are Favorites For 2010 Super Bowl

From the Week 1 home opener against the Buffalo Bills to Super Bowl futures odds, there’s no question that the Sportsbook.com oddsmakers expect the New England Patriots to dominate this season. The oddsmakers have the Patriots listed as a heavy favorite in all the NFL Futures

Odds available right now and with quarterback Tom Brady back on the field, expectations continue to rise for the three-time Super Bowl Champions. New England is a hefty 10-point favorite for the Week 1 Monday Night Football opener against the Buffalo Bills, a -400 favorite to win the AFC East Division, a +180 favorite to win the AFC Championship and +350 favorite to capture the teams fourth Super Bowl since 2000. Not only are the Patriots the leader to win division, AFC and Super Bowl, but oddsmakers have set their Regular Season Win Total at Over/Under 11.5 games.

That’s the highest Win Total of all 32 teams with the defending champion Pittsburgh Steelers the only other team getting a double digit win total at Over/Under 10.5 victories. “New England is a team that won nine games last year without their MVP Quarterback and went 16-0 with him the previous regular season,” said Sportsbook.com spokesman, Dave Staley. “They do have the third toughest strength of schedule for the upcoming year but if Brady’s healthy, that shouldn’t be a problem.”

Brady performed in front of the media for the first time on the third of New England’s four Organized Team Activities and although not practicing at full speed, the media circus was there to document every move. The  two-time Super Bowl MVP and 2007 NFL MVP, Brady has been the focus of the offseason but bettors would be wise to remember that coach Bill Belichick has spent the offseason re-tooling a slow, aging defense that had trouble getting off the field on third downs last year. 

The most notable additions to the team are in the secondary that gave up numerous big plays last year. Cornerbacks Leigh Bodden and Shawn Springs were signed as free agents with safety Patrick Chung and cornerback Darius Butler added early in the draft. These players join 2008 draft picks Terrence Wheatley and Jonathan Wilhite, two players that played well when given time last year. “You take all the new additions and factor in that they have last year’s defensive Rookie of the Year, Jerod Mayo back for his second season, and this defense is going to be improved,” said Staley.

“Plus, Adalius Thomas is coming back from injury and you have big nose tackle Vince Wilfork in a contract year. “They are going to be a tough unit to play this season.” Ready to place your bets on the Patriots or any of the other NFL teams? Check the Live Odds page at Sportsbook.com for a complete list of NFL Betting options.

Sports Betting: Jets Have A Lot to Prove

The New York Jets have a new coach and a new defense but it's the offense that still has oddsmakers questioning the team as the 2009 season approaches.

Sports Betting Sportsbook oddsmakers are listing the Jets at Over/Under 7 wins with the recently released Regular Season Wins futures odds.

The win totals are always a favorite offseason wager for football fans and Sportsbook.com has odds for every team and a complete list of futures wagers to hold bettors over until the start of the season.

When new head coach Rex Ryan moved from Baltimore to New York, he took with him some of the talent that helped make his Ravens' defense one of the best in the league.

Among the recruits from Baltimore are defensive lineman Marques Douglas, linebacker Bart Scott and safety Jim Leonhard. Scott was second on the Ravens last year with 82 tackles while Leonhard was third with 69 tackles.

The addition of these players should improve a defense that ranked 16^th in the league with 329.4 yards of offense against per game but will that be enough to win in a tough AFC East division that includes the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills?

"No-one is going to question the defense but without a quarterback, it might not matter what the defense does," said Sportsbook.com spokesman, Dave Staley. "The chances of Mark Sanchez coming in and having a season like Matt Ryan had in Atlanta last year aren't good.

"Even if they go with Kellen Clemens, they'll still be a weak offensive team."

Not only are the Jets without a top tier quarterback, they lost wide receiver Laveranues Coles in free agency, leaving a big void in the catching game behind Jerricho Cotchery.

That does not bode well for a team that will be playing the Patriots, Bills and Dolphins twice this season.

"New York is going to need to score points to compete with these teams and I just can't see them matching up with these teams offensively," said Staley. "Unless the defense can be as dominant as the Ravens were last year and they can rely on the run game, they could have a hard time getting Over the seven victories."

The Division Champs from last year, the Dolphins have the toughest schedule in the league and are also listed at seven wins, with the Terrell Owens and the Bills at 7.5 wins.

New England leads the entire NFL with a regular season win total set at 11.5.

Bet on all Sportsbook.com NFL Future Odds.

 

Hugh Hollins Call on Scotty Pippen Wrong: GodsTips Keeps Making Right Call

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: Kobe Bryant and the Lakers try to finish off the Nuggets, and the Bronx Bombers head to Cleveland in search of some wins.

Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

It's curtains for the Nuggets on Friday night if they can't get past the Lakers in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals. Denver trails Los Angeles 3-2 in the best-of-seven third-round series after falling 103-94 on the road in Game 5 on Wednesday night. Bryant led the Lakers with a team-high 22 points in that win, while Lamar Odom contributed 19 points and 14 boards off the bench. Carmelo Anthony had a game-high 31 points on just 9-of-23 shooting for the Nuggets in the loss. Chauncey Billups and Kenyon Martin each put up 12 points Wednesday.

Hugh Hollins calls the foul against Scottie Pippen in the 1994 playoffs may be the most disputed playoff call ever but the most indisputable truth is that GodsTips continues to make all the right calls.

Seriously, if you are betting on your own and without the aid of the top sports betting experts of all-time at GodsTips, you are on a gambling death wish. But we sincerely thank you for keeping the bookmakers in business for us. Sixteen of our last 17 NBA Wise Guy plays have won. Yes 16-1. Cleveland last night was the latest.

Are you ready to begin the rest of your gambling life or do you just want to keep subsidizing the bookmakers for GodsTips clients? Wise Guy on the side and total in the NBA tonight and we have added two night MLB Wise Guys, three night Majors. That's seven night winners in all! Oh overall it's 15-5 the last 20 picks. Click now to purchase

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

It'll be a battle of lefthanders in Cleveland on Friday night as Cliff Lee and the Indians host Andy Pettitte and the Yankees. Lee (2-5, 3.04 ERA) has given up three or fewer earned runs in each of his last eight outings, but his team is just 2-6 in those contests. Pettitte (4-1, 4.30 ERA), has given up four or more earned runs in four of his past five outings, but the Yankees have compiled a 4-1 record.

Also on the AL schedule for Friday: Boston at Toronto, Minnesota at Tampa Bay, the White Sox at Kansas City, Seattle at the Angels, and Oakland at Texas (in a doubleheader). As well, the Tigers and Orioles will continue their series down in Baltimore, with the O's expected to debut their top prospect, catcher Matt Wieters. Dontrelle Willis (1-1, 3.57 ERA) heads to the hill for Detroit Friday night.

Over in the National League on Friday things will get underway early with a 2:20pm ET game between the Dodgers and Cubs in Chicago. Chad Billingsley (6-2, 2.82 ERA) is expected to get the start for Los Angeles in that contest; the lefthander gave up five runs (four earned) over six innings in a loss to the Angels last time out. Chicago will send lefthander Ted Lilly (5-4, 3.77 ERA) to the mound.

Rounding out the Senior Circuit slate for Friday: Houston at Pittsburgh, Washington at Philadelphia, Florida at the Mets, Cincinnati at Milwaukee, San Diego at Colorado, Atlanta at Arizona, and St. Louis at San Francisco. The Giants will turn to Matt Cain for that west-coast matchup; the righthander is 5-1 with a solid 2.40 ERA on the season, and his team is 4-0 in his last four outings.

Entertainment headlines….

Phil Spector was sentenced to 19 years to life in prison for the murder of Lana Clarkson… With Susan Boyle feeling the pressure, sportsbooks no longer have her as the runaway favorite in Britain's Got Talent…The NCAA baseball regionals are going on. Remember the 2009 College World Series odds will be posted on OffshoreInsiders.com  

NHL Betting - Stanley Cup Final Odds Game 1

Penguins Red Wings odds: Game 1 Saturday, May 30 at 8:00 p.m. ET
NHL odds: Penguins +140, Red Wings -160

The big NHL betting rematch is here! The Penguins are poised to avenge their loss from last year. They're 30-8-4 under new head coach Dan Bylsma, they're well-rested after sweeping Carolina, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are on fire, and they've come up big in clutch situations all playoffs long. I think they'll be crowned Stanley Cup champs—but they won't win Game 1. The Penguins breezed past the Hurricanes so quickly that their layoff—five days—may actually slow down their momentum and leave them a bit rusty. The Wings had a three-day layoff—long enough to heal but not long enough to lose the momentum of their Game-5 overtime victory over the Blackhawks. Pavel Datsyuk is a game-time decision for Game 1 but Nicklas Lidstrom will return to the lineup.

Brad Stuart and Niklas Kronwall have given opposing forwards the heebie-jeebies with huge hits throughout the playoffs and you can bet they'll set out to send a message to Crosby and Malkin Game 1. Detroit's power-play is sizzling at 25.7 per cent and will get the crowd into the game early if Pittsburgh takes any bad penalties. Johan Franzen and Tomas Holmstrom will also try to get inside Marc-Andre Fleury's head early by parking their big bodies in front of the net and creating screens for Lidstrom and Brian Rafalski. The Penguins' prospects for an upset series win are still good, and they could surprise in the opener if they can get an early goal, but they may be asleep at the switch for Game 1. Bet on Detroit.

NHL betting pick: Red Wings -160

Boxing Betting - Weekend Fights

Impatiently waiting for the French Open odds clash between Federer and Nadal? Don't worry—there's lots of fun boxing betting to do this weekend. Check out these intriguing matchups.

Andre Berto (24-0) vs Juan Urango (23-1-1)
Boxing odds: Berto -350, Urango +275

Can tough guy Juan Urango take the next step forward in his boxing betting career? He's certainly an exciting fighter—a street brawler type who walks forward and opts for flurries of heavy punches instead of calculated strikes. He may be biting off more than he can chew against the polished Berto, though. Berto is a disciplined, technically sound fighter who simply doesn't make many mistakes. While he may not have faced anyone as aggressive as Urango before, he can adapt and wait for his openings. Urango has the power to catch Berto, but that probably won't happen.

Sportsbook online pick: Berto -350

Nikolay Valuev (50-1-1) vs Ruslan Chagaev (25-0-1)
Boxing odds: -115 for both fighters

In a battle for the undisputed WBA heavyweight title, seven-footer Nikolay Valuev faces the only man to ever beat him, Ruslan Chagaev. Given the 11-inch height difference between the fighters, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out each guy's strengths and weaknesses. Valuev has immense power and dominates when he corners smaller opponents, but he's slow as molasses. Chagaev is quick and flashy and does have power, but he'll be hard pressed to really hurt a man of Valuev's stature. There's one crucial difference from the first Valuev/Chagaev fight that could tip the boxing odds in the big guy's favor; Chagaev is one fight removed from completely tearing his Achilles, so it remains to be seen if he'll have the same quickness as before (and he didn't look great in his first fight back).Valuev may capitalize and bludgeon Chagaev with body shots and uppercuts.

Sportsbook online pick: Valuev -115

15-1 With NBA Wise Guys; It's Not Good Enough For Us Either!

GodsTips continues to feel no empathy for the sportsbooks. There is a better chance of them hitting the Florida Powerball numbers than posing a threat to the top basketball handicapper ever

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Cavaliers try to put an end to their skid, the D-Backs get a visit from the Braves, and the PGA Tour tees off in Fort Worth.

Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

LeBron James and his Cavaliers squad will be looking to avoid elimination on Thursday night when they take the court at home against the Magic in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Orlando came up with a 116-114 overtime win in Game 4 on Tuesday to take a 3-1 lead in the series. Dwight Howard led the way with 27 points and 14 rebounds for the Magic in that victory, while Rafer Alston tossed in 26 points. LeBron James poured in a game-high 44 points in that loss for the Cavaliers, who have been listed as 7.5-point home favorites for Game 5.

 

The beat goes on. GodsTips is now 15-1 with NBA Wise Guys as the Lakers do it again last night. We are 11-4 overall with underdog winners of 145, 140, and 180 in route to eight dog winners and no chalk losers in that span.

Oh yes, make it 16-1 as tonight's Orlando-Cleveland side is a Wise Guy. We now have two day winners and let's just say if you miss out, you will regret it greatly. It's a strong day card and that's an understatement. Click now to purchase

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

A light schedule around baseball on Thursday has just five games on the docket, including Arizona at home to Atlanta. The Diamondbacks are slated to send Dan Haren (3-4, 2.57 ERA) to the mound in that contest; the righthander gave up five earned runs over seven innings in his start against Oakland last time out, and hasn't recorded a win since May 2. The Braves will counter with righthander Derek Lowe (6-2, 3.45 ERA), who has grabbed a win in five of his past six starts.

Also on the diamond on Thursday: the Dodgers at the Cubs, Tampa Bay at Cleveland, Detroit at Baltimore, and Boston at Minnesota. The Red Sox will be looking for another solid outing from righthander Josh Beckett (4-2, 5.01 ERA), who held the Mets to one unearned run over eight innings in his last start. The Twins are expected to send rookie Anthony Swarzak to the mound on Thursday; the righthander tossed seven scoreless innings in his debut against the Brewers.

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

Finally, the PGA Tour heads to Fort Worth this week for the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial. Phil Mickelson is the defending champion at this event, but he won't be in the field this week. With Tiger Woods also not competing the Vegas oddsmakers have set Jim Furyk as the 10/1 tournament favorite, followed by Geoff Ogilvy at 12/1. Furyk missed the cut in this tourney last year after shooting 71-74 in the first two rounds. Ogilvy was tied for seventh, going 7-under.

Tim Clark, who was one stroke back of Mickelson last year at 13-under, is farther back at 25/1 odds to win this year's Crowne Plaza Invitational. Kenny Perry, Paul Casey, and Zach Johnson are all at 15/1 on the Vegas odds chart, followed by Rory Sabbatini, Sean O'Hair, Luke Donald, and Ian Poulter at 20/1. Sabbatini is coming off a win in last week's HP Byron Nelson Championship at TPC Four Seasons. Anthony Kim is among a group of golfers pegged at 25/1 for this week.

Braves-Diamondbacks Lines Preview

The Atlanta Braves and the Arizona Diamondbacks will both be gunning for a victory on Thursday when they meet at Chase Field. Ace Derek Lowe will be the starting pitcher for the Braves on this day. Righthander Lowe is 6-2 this season with a 3.45 ERA. Lowe's opponent in this one will be Dan Haren. The Diamondbacks righthander has a 2.57 ERA to go along with a 3-4 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Diamondbacks listed as 125-moneyline favorites versus the Braves, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Braves were doubled 6-3 by the Giants last time out, as a -110 pick'em. That game's nine runs made it OVER the posted over/under (8). Garret Anderson had two RBIs to lead the Braves, while Kenshin Kawakami gave up nine hits and four runs over 5 2-3 innings. Bobby Abreu drove in two runs to give the Angels a 3-1 victory over the White Sox on Wednesday, as -200 favorites. The four runs went UNDER the posted over/under (9). Juan Rivera went 2-for-3 at the plate and drove in the other run for the Angels. Jered Weaver tossed eight innings for the win, and Brian Fuentes collected his 13th save. Current streak: Atlanta has lost 3 straight games. Team records: Atlanta: 23-23 SU Arizona: 20-27 SU Atlanta most recently: When playing on Thursday are 4-6 Before playing Arizona are 7-3 After playing San Francisco are 3-7 After a loss are 5-5 Arizona most recently: When playing on Thursday are 5-5 Before playing Atlanta are 2-8 After playing San Diego are 4-6 After a loss are 4-6 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona The total has gone OVER in 6 of Atlanta's last 8 games when playing Arizona Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Arizona The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta The total has gone OVER in 6 of Arizona's last 8 games when playing Atlanta Arizona is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Atlanta Arizona is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta Next up: Arizona home to Atlanta, Friday, May 29

Dodgers-Cubs Odds Preview

The fans at Wrigley Field will be treated to a game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs when they take their seats on Thursday. Randy Wolf will be the starting pitcher for the Dodgers on this day. Lefthander Wolf is 2-1 this season with a 3.02 ERA. The Cubs will counter Wolf with Randy Wells. Righthander Wells has a 1.50 ERA to go along with a 0-1 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Cubs listed as 130-moneyline favorites versus the Dodgers, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Dodgers completed a three-game sweep of the Rockies with an 8-6 win in Wednesday's series finale, as +130 underdogs. The combined 14 runs made it OVER the posted over/under (9.5). James Loney had two hits and drove in four runs, while Juan Pierre collected two RBIs. Clayton Kershaw allowed just four hits and three runs over six innings to earn the victory. The Cubs scored three runs in the eighth inning on Wednesday, as they got by the Pirates 5-2 in the rubber match. The Cubs won that game as -160 favorites, while the seven runs fell UNDER the posted over/under (9). Reed Johnson homered and drove in two runs to lead the Cubs. Carlos Marmol tossed the win in relief, and Kevin Gregg notched his seventh save. Current streak: Los Angeles has won 3 straight games. Chicago has won 2 straight games. Team records: Los Angeles: 33-15 SU Chicago: 23-22 SU Los Angeles most recently: When playing on Thursday are 5-5 Before playing Chi Cubs are 5-5 After playing Colorado are 6-4 After a win are 7-3 Chicago most recently: When playing on Thursday are 7-3 Before playing LA Dodgers are 3-7 After playing Pittsburgh are 8-2 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: LA Dodgers are 7-1 SU in their last 8 games on the road LA Dodgers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing Chi Cubs LA Dodgers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs Chi Cubs are 10-3 SU in their last 13 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers Chi Cubs are 2-8 SU in their last 10 games Chi Cubs are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers Next up: Chi Cubs home to LA Dodgers, Friday, May 29

Tigers-Orioles Lines Preview

The Baltimore Orioles will be trying to extend a winning streak on Thursday when they take on the Detroit Tigers at Camden Yards. The Tigers will give the ball to starter Armando Galarraga in this one. Righthander Galarraga is 3-4 this season with a 5.74 ERA. Starting this game for the Orioles will be Koji Uehara. The righthander has a 4.09 ERA to go along with a 2-3 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Orioles listed as 115-moneyline favorites versus the Tigers, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Placido Polanco belted a two-run homer and drove in three runs to lead the Tigers to a 8-3 victory over the Royals in the rubber match on Wednesday. The Tigers won that game as -120 favorites, while the 11 runs made it OVER the posted over/under (9). Josh Anderson went 4-for-5 at the plate with one RBI. Rick Porcello improved to 6-3 with the win, allowing just four hits and two runs. Noland Reimold belted a walkoff three-run homer in the 11th inning to give the Orioles a 12-10 win over the Blue Jays on Wednesday, as +140 underdogs. That game's 22 runs sailed OVER the posted over/under (8). Luke Scott hit a two-run dinger and finished with three RBIs for the Orioles. Danys Baez tossed three innings of relief to get his fourth victory. Current streak: Baltimore has won 3 straight games. Team records: Detroit: 26-19 SU Baltimore: 21-26 SU Detroit most recently: When playing on Thursday are 3-7 Before playing Baltimore are 7-3 After playing Kansas City are 6-4 After a win are 7-3 Baltimore most recently: When playing on Thursday are 5-5 Before playing Detroit are 4-6 After playing Toronto are 4-6 After a win are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Detroit is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games when playing Baltimore Detroit is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games when playing Baltimore Detroit is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Baltimore Baltimore is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games Baltimore is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 5 of Baltimore's last 7 games when playing Detroit Baltimore is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Detroit Next up: Baltimore home to Detroit, Friday, May 29

Red Sox-Twins Lines Preview

The Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins will both be gunning for a victory on Thursday when they meet at The Metrodome. Ace righthander Josh Beckett will take the mound for the Red Sox to start this game. Beckett is 4-2 this season with a 5.01 ERA. Beckett's opponent in this one will be Anthony Swarzak. The Twins righthander has a 0.00 ERA to go along with a 1-0 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Red Sox listed as 130-moneyline favorites versus the Twins, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Twins went up 2-1 in their four-game set with Boston on Wednesday, as they came away with a 4-2 victory. The Twins won that game as -145 favorites, while the six runs went UNDER the posted over/under (9.5). Denard Span went 4-for-4 at the plate with two runs scored for the Twins. Kevin Slowey went six innings for the win, giving up six hits and two runs. Jason Bay homered in a losing effort for the Red Sox, who were +125 underdogs. Daisuke Matsuzaka gave up nine hits and three runs over five innings. Current streak: Boston has lost 2 straight games. Minnesota has won 2 straight games. Team records: Boston: 27-20 SU Minnesota: 24-24 SU Boston most recently: When playing on Thursday are 3-7 Before playing Toronto are 5-5 After playing Minnesota are 4-6 After a loss are 6-4 Minnesota most recently: When playing on Thursday are 6-4 Before playing Tampa Bay are 3-7 After playing Boston are 6-4 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Boston is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing Minnesota Boston is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games Boston is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road Boston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota Minnesota is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home Minnesota is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games Minnesota is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Boston Minnesota is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Boston Next up: Boston at Toronto, Friday, May 29 Minnesota at Tampa Bay, Friday, May 29

Rays-Indians Odds Preview

The fans at Progressive Field will be treated to a game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Cleveland Indians when they take their seats on Thursday. The Rays will pin their hopes on the pitching of righthander Jeff Niemann in this game. Niemann has a 4-3 record and a 4.53 ERA this season. Starting this game for the Indians will be David Huff. The lefthander has a 17.54 ERA to go along with a 0-1 record this season. Oddsmakers currently have the Rays listed as 122-moneyline favorites versus the Indians, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Indians won their third straight in a four-game series with a 12-7 victory over the Rays on Wednesday, as a -105 pick'em. That game's 19 runs sailed OVER the posted over/under (11). Ben Francisco led the Indians with four RBIs, including a three-run homer. Greg Aquino earned the win in relief, and Luis Vizcaino added his first save. Evan Longoria went 2-for-5 at the plate with a solo home run and two RBIs for the Rays. Andy Sonnanstine was rocked for eight runs in just three innings on the mound. Current streak: Tampa Bay has lost 4 straight games. Cleveland has won 3 straight games. Team records: Tampa Bay: 23-26 SU Cleveland: 20-28 SU Tampa Bay most recently: When playing on Thursday are 4-6 Before playing Minnesota are 5-5 After playing Cleveland are 7-3 After a loss are 5-5 Cleveland most recently: When playing on Thursday are 5-5 Before playing NY Yankees are 7-3 After playing Tampa Bay are 3-7 After a win are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Tampa Bay is 6-16 SU in its last 22 games when playing Cleveland Tampa Bay is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road Tampa Bay is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games Tampa Bay is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cleveland Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay Cleveland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home Cleveland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games Cleveland is 16-6 SU in its last 22 games when playing Tampa Bay Next up: Tampa Bay home to Minnesota, Friday, May 29 Cleveland home to NY Yankees, Friday, May 29

Magic-Cavaliers Odds Preview

The Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers will both be gunning for a victory on Thursday when they meet at Quicken Loans Arena. Oddsmakers currently have the Cavaliers listed as 7½-point favorites versus the Magic, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Magic took a commanding 3-1 lead in the series with a 116-114 overtime victory over the Cavaliers on Tuesday night in Game 4. The Magic won that game as a slight 1.5-point underdog, while the combined score sailed OVER the posted total of 188. Dwight Howard led the Magic with 27 points and 14 rebounds, while Rafer Alston added 26 points in the win. LeBron James netted a game-high 44 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for a double-double in the loss. Team records: Orlando: 59-23 SU, 49-32-1 ATS Cleveland: 66-16 SU, 49-33 ATS Orlando most recently: When playing on Thursday are 7-3 After playing Cleveland are 7-3 After a win are 6-4 Cleveland most recently: When playing on Thursday are 5-5 After playing Orlando are 7-3 After a loss are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Orlando is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland Orlando is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games Orlando is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cleveland Orlando is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games Cleveland is 21-2 SU in its last 23 games at home The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Orlando Cleveland is 14-4 SU in its last 18 games Cleveland is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games at home

Sports Handicapper Now 14-1 With NBA Playoffs Wise Guy Plays

Barcelona is in as UEFA Cup Champions League winners, shutting out Manchester United 2-0. Meanwhile GodsTips wins with huge underdog Wise Guy on Baltimore proving to be more fertile than Desmond "Drop a Seed" Hatchett, the 29 year old with 21 kids.

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: Carmelo Anthony and the Nuggets head back to Los Angeles, while the Blackhawks try to stave off elimination in Detroit.

Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

The Nuggets and Lakers will break a 2-2 series deadlock on Wednesday night when the Western Conference Finals shifts to Los Angeles for Game 5. Denver cruised to a 120-101 home win over Los Angeles in Game 4 on Monday night, with Chauncey Billups and J.R. Smith each scoring 24 points. Anthony battled a sore ankle and finished with 15 points. Kobe Bryant led the way for the Lakers with a game-high 34 points, and Pau Gasol contributed 21 points and 10 boards.

 

The Magic make GodsTips an outlandish 14-1 with NBA Wise Guys. Yes 14-1. GodsTips goes 6-2 overall including Baltimore this afternoon and with 5-1 Wise Guys. How much is it costing you to not be a client of GodsTips?

We are ready to go 15-1 with NBA Wise Guys thanks to the Nuggets-Lakers side. Do you still want to be on the outside looking in? Get four night Wise Guys and a night Major Click now to purchase

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

The Yankees will be on the road against Texas on Wednesday, while the Twins host Boston. Also on the American League schedule: Detroit at Kansas City, Seattle at Oakland, Tampa Bay at Cleveland, and the White Sox at the Angels. Probable Los Angeles starter Jered Weaver is 3-2 with a 2.52 ERA on the season, and he held the Dodgers to a single run over five innings in his last start.

Over in the NL the Mets will go with ace Johan Santana (6-2, 1.50 ERA) in their home game against the Nationals Wednesday. Santana has picked up the win in each of his last two starts, although he did surrender nine runs (six earned) over 14 innings of work in those outings. Jordan Zimmerman will get the ball for the Nats; the righthander has given up five or more runs in four of his last five starts.

Making up the rest of the Senior Circuit's slate for Wednesday: St. Louis at Milwaukee, Pittsburgh at the Cubs, the Dodgers at Colorado, Florida at Philadelphia, Houston at Cincinnati, Atlanta at San Francisco, and San Diego at Arizona. Padres starter Jake Peavy turned down a trade to the White Sox last week; the righthander has won two straight outings to sit at 4-5 with a 3.48 ERA.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

The Blackhawks could find themselves bounced from the playoffs on Wednesday night as they play in Detroit in the fifth game of the Western Conference final. Chicago is down 3-1 to the Red Wings in the best-of-seven set after they were blasted 6-1 in Game 4 on Sunday. Hawks starting netminder Nikolai Khabibulin missed Game 4 with a lower-body injury, while Wings goalie Chris Osgood sat out the third period with dehydration. Detroit forward Pavel Datsyuk (foot) and defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom (lower body) both sat out Sunday and are listed as day-to-day. Oddsmakers have listed the Wings as -235 favorites for Wednesday.

NHL Odds - Wednesday Hockey Betting Pick

Stanley Cup betting could be one game away. The Penguins swept Carolina and await the winner of the Red Wings vs Blackhawks odds; at home tonight, Detroit can clinch the series with a win. Will it happen or will the young Hawks take advantage of the Wings' health woes?

Red Wings vs Blackhawks odds - Game 5 tonight at 7:35 p.m. ET
NHL odds: Red Wings -250, Blackhawks +210

The Chicago Blackhawks went from jubilant to desperate between Games 3 and 4, following an overtime win in Game 3 by getting throttled 6-1 at the United Center. Sure, they were trying to make do without Nikolai Khabibulin in Game 4, but he hasn't exactly stood on his head in Stanley Cup betting this season and the Wings were even more shorthanded, playing without Pavel Datsyuk, the best two-way forward in the game, and future Hall-of-Famer Nicklas Lidstrom, and they still pounded the Hawks.

Entering Game 5 on the road, the Hawks are a massive online sports book underdog. Khabibulin will be a game-time decision, as will Martin Havlat, who tried to come back in Game 4 but exited early, still feeling the effects of a vicious hit by Niklas Kronwall from Game 3. Lidstrom and Datsyuk will be last-minute calls for the Wings, but Detroit proved it can win without them in a tough building like the United Center, so the Red Wings odds look great tonight. Brad Stuart and Kronwall have more than filled Lidstrom's void, punishing the speedy Hawks with one bonecrushing hit after another. While Datsyuk is irreplaceable, Detroit still has unmatched depth up front, and role players like Daniel Cleary and Valtteri Filppula have stepped it up throughout the Stanley Cup betting playoffs. Chicago should be commended for taking massive strides this season, but the young guns are facing elimination for the first time this hockey betting season. Winning on the road in that situation is a tall order. Go with the defending champs tonight.

Hockey betting pick: Red Wings -250

Nuggets-Lakers Odds Preview

The Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at STAPLES Center in the fifth game of the Western Conference Finals. Oddsmakers currently have the Lakers listed as 6-point favorites versus the Nuggets, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Chauncey Billups tossed in 24 points on Monday night to lead the Nuggets to a 120-101 win over the Lakers. The Nuggets managed to cover the 4.5-point spread at home in that contest and tie up the series 2-2. The combined score went OVER the night's posted total (208.5). J.R. Smith also tossed in 24 points in that win for Denver, while Carmelo Anthony had 15 points. Kobe Bryant scored a game-high 34 points in the loss for the Lakers. Team records: Denver: 54-28 SU, 45-36-1 ATS Los Angeles: 65-17 SU, 42-39-1 ATS Denver most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 6-4 Before playing LA Lakers are 6-4 After playing LA Lakers are 4-6 After a win are 5-5 Los Angeles most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 6-4 Before playing Denver are 9-1 After playing Denver are 6-4 After a loss are 9-1 A few trends to consider: Denver is 12-1-1 ATS in its last 14 games Denver is 5-0-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Denver's last 11 games when playing LA Lakers The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Lakers LA Lakers are 15-2 SU in their last 17 games when playing at home against Denver The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the LA Lakers last 8 games LA Lakers are 20-3 SU in their last 23 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 6 of the LA Lakers last 7 games at home Next up: Denver home to LA Lakers, Friday, May 29 LA Lakers at Denver, Friday, May 29