ESPN NBA Odds: Hornets vs Mavericks

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The New Orleans Hornets and the Dallas Mavericks will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at American Airlines Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Mavericks listed as 8-point favorites versus the Hornets, while the game's total is sitting at 197. The Hornets scored 28 points in the fourth quarter to rally and defeat the Magic 100-93 on Friday. The Hornets won that game as a 6-point underdog, while the 193 points went UNDER the posted total of 198.5. David West poured in a game-high 40 points to spark the Hornets. Marcus Thornton added 18 points in that win. The Mavericks roared back in the fourth quarter and came away with a 111-103 overtime victory against the Hawks on Friday, as 3.5-point underdogs. That game's 214 points made it over the posted total of 192. Jason Kidd collected a triple-double with 19 points, 15 rebounds and 17 assists. Dirk Nowitzki netted a game-high 37 points in the win. Current streak: Dallas has won 6 straight games. Team records: New Orleans: 31-28 SU, 30-29 ATS Dallas: 38-21 SU, 25-34 ATS New Orleans most recently: When playing on Sunday are 5-5 Before playing San Antonio are 4-6 After playing Orlando are 5-5 After a win are 3-7 Dallas most recently: When playing on Sunday are 6-4 Before playing Charlotte are 6-4 After playing Atlanta are 8-2 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 7 of New Orleans's last 8 games on the road New Orleans is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 11 of New Orleans's last 13 games when playing on the road against Dallas New Orleans is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Dallas Dallas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Dallas is 16-2 SU in its last 18 games when playing at home against New Orleans The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Dallas's last 13 games when playing at home against New Orleans Dallas is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home Next up: New Orleans home to San Antonio, Monday, March 1 Dallas at Charlotte, Monday, March 1

ESPN NBA Odds: Heat vs Magic

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Amway Arena. Oddsmakers currently have the Magic listed as 12½-point favorites versus the Heat, while the game's total is sitting at 184. The Heat couldn't keep pace with the Bucks without Dwyane Wade, losing 94-71 at AmericanAirlines Arena Saturday. Milwaukee covered as a 2-point road underdog while the final score played UNDER the 185-point total. The Magic were defeated 100-93 by the Hornets last time out, as 6-point favorites. The Hornets won this game as a 6-point underdog, while the 193 points went UNDER the posted total of 198.5. Dwight Howard collected a double-double with 26 points and 10 rebounds. Current streak: Miami has lost 3 straight games. Team records: Miami: 29-30 SU, 30-28-1 ATS Orlando: 39-20 SU, 29-27-3 ATS Miami most recently: When playing on Sunday are 6-4 Before playing Golden State are 5-5 After playing Milwaukee are 2-8 After a loss are 3-7 Orlando most recently: When playing on Sunday are 9-1 Before playing Philadelphia are 6-4 After playing New Orleans are 6-4 After a loss are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Miami is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 6 games on the road Miami is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games when playing Orlando Orlando is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Miami Orlando is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games Orlando is 12-3 SU in its last 15 games when playing Miami Next up: Miami home to Golden State, Tuesday, March 2 Orlando at Philadelphia, Monday, March 1

ABC NBA Odds: Nuggets vs Lakers

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at STAPLES Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Lakers listed as 6-point favorites versus the Nuggets, while the game's total is sitting at 209. The Nuggets rallied from a small deficit and came back to defeat the Pistons 107-102 on Friday. The Nuggets failed to cover the 9.5-point spread, while the 209 points made it OVER the posted total of 203.5. Chauncey Billups led the Nuggets with 25 points and Carmelo Anthony added 24 in that win. Pau Gasol netted 23 points and hauled down 11 boards for a double-double on Friday, as the Lakers defeated the 76ers 99-90. The Lakers failed to cover the 9.5-point spread, while the 189 points went UNDER the posted total of 198.5. Andrew Bynum netted 20 points with 13 rebounds for a double-double in the win. Current streak: Denver has won 3 straight games. Team records: Denver: 39-19 SU, 27-28-3 ATS Los Angeles: 44-15 SU, 25-33-1 ATS Denver most recently: When playing on Sunday are 4-6 Before playing Phoenix are 5-5 After playing Detroit are 7-3 After a win are 5-5 Los Angeles most recently: When playing on Sunday are 7-3 Before playing Indiana are 9-1 After playing Philadelphia are 8-2 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games The total has gone OVER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Denver's last 15 games when playing LA Lakers LA Lakers are 22-3 SU in their last 25 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the LA Lakers last 8 games LA Lakers are 16-3 SU in their last 19 games when playing at home against Denver The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the LA Lakers last 5 games at home Next up: Denver at Phoenix, Monday, March 1 LA Lakers home to Indiana, Tuesday, March 2

ABC NBA Odds: Suns vs Spurs

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The fans at AT&T Center will be treated to a game between the Phoenix Suns and the San Antonio Spurs when they take their seats on Sunday. Oddsmakers currently have the Spurs listed as 4-point favorites versus the Suns, while the game's total is sitting at 210. Robin Lopez netted 30 points with 12 rebounds for a double-double in leading the Suns to a 125-112 victory over the Clippers on Friday. The Suns covered the 9-point spread, and the 237 points sailed OVER the posted total of 209. Amare Stoudemire, dropped 20 points for the Suns, and Grant Hill added 18 points in the win. The Spurs fell 109-104 to the Rockets last time out, as 3.5-point favorites. That game's 213 points sailed OVER the posted total of 198. George Hill tossed in 26 points for the Rockets, and Kevin Martin had 33 points in the loss. Current streak: Phoenix has won 5 straight games. Team records: Phoenix: 37-23 SU, 34-25-1 ATS San Antonio: 32-24 SU, 26-29-1 ATS Phoenix most recently: When playing on Sunday are 6-4 Before playing Denver are 7-3 After playing LA Clippers are 7-3 After a win are 8-2 San Antonio most recently: When playing on Sunday are 7-3 Before playing New Orleans are 7-3 After playing Houston are 7-3 After a loss are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Phoenix is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games Phoenix is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road Phoenix is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road San Antonio is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Phoenix San Antonio is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Phoenix San Antonio is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 6 of San Antonio's last 9 games Next up: Phoenix home to Denver, Monday, March 1 San Antonio at New Orleans, Monday, March 1

FSN NCAA Basketball Odds: Duke vs Virginia

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The fans at John Paul Jones Arena will be treated to a game between the Duke Blue Devils and the Virginia Cavaliers when they take their seats on Sunday. Oddsmakers currently have the Blue Devils listed as 9½-point favorites versus the Cavaliers, while the game's total is sitting at 132. Duke poured in 36 second half points as they ran past Tulsa 70-52 on Thursday. Duke failed to cover the 19-point spread, while the 122 points went UNDER the posted total of 141.5. Brian Zoubek netted 10 points to go with 10 rebounds for a double-double for Duke. Nolan Smith added 18 points in that win. Sylven Landesberg poured in 27 points for Virginia in its 74-62 loss to Miami on Tuesday night. Miami covered as 6.5-point home favorites, while the teams played OVER the 130.5-point total listed by oddsmakers. Current streak: Duke has won 7 straight games. Virginia has lost 6 straight games. Team records: Duke: 24-4 SU, 16-10-1 ATS Virginia: 14-12 SU, 9-11-1 ATS Duke most recently: When playing on Sunday are 7-3 Before playing Maryland are 9-1 After playing Tulsa are 1-1 After a win are 8-2 Virginia most recently: When playing on Sunday are 5-5 Before playing Boston College are 1-5 After playing Miami are 4-4 After a loss are 3-7 A few trends to consider: Duke is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Duke is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games when playing Virginia The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Duke's last 7 games when playing Virginia The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Duke's last 6 games The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Virginia's last 7 games when playing Duke Virginia is 13-4 SU in its last 17 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Virginia's last 8 games Virginia is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Duke Next up: Duke at Maryland, Wednesday, March 3 Virginia at Boston College, Wednesday, March 3

FSN NCAA Basketball Odds: Clemson vs Florida State

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Clemson Tigers and the Florida State Seminoles will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Tucker Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Seminoles listed as 4-point favorites versus the Tigers, while the game's total is sitting at 132. Demontez Stitt scored 15 points for Clemson in its 88-79 loss to Maryland on Wednesday night. Maryland covered as 5-point home favorites, while the teams played OVER the 145-point total posted by oddsmakers. Florida State took off in the first half with 48 points and went on to defeat North Carolina 77-67 on Wednesday. Florida State easily covered the 2.5-point spread, and the combined score made it OVER the posted total of 139. Chris Singleton led the way with 19 points, and Deividas Dulkys added 17 in that win. Current streak: Florida State has won 3 straight games. Team records: Clemson: 19-8 SU, 12-12 ATS Florida State: 20-7 SU, 8-14 ATS Clemson most recently: When playing on Sunday are 5-5 Before playing Georgia Tech are 5-5 After playing Maryland are 2-8 After a loss are 6-4 Florida State most recently: When playing on Sunday are 5-5 Before playing Wake Forest are 4-6 After playing North Carolina are 6-4 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Clemson's last 5 games when playing on the road against Florida State The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Clemson's last 10 games when playing Florida State Clemson is 13-6 SU in its last 19 games Clemson is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Florida State The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Florida State's last 5 games when playing at home against Clemson Florida State is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games at home Florida State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Florida State's last 10 games when playing Clemson Next up: Clemson home to Georgia Tech, Tuesday, March 2 Florida State home to Wake Forest, Wednesday, March 3

NCAA Basketball Betting: Michigan State vs Purdue

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Michigan State Spartans and the Purdue Boilermakers will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Mackey Arena. Oddsmakers currently have the Boilermakers listed as 4-point favorites versus the Spartans, while the game's total is sitting at 135. Michigan State lost to Ohio State 74-67 as a 3.5-point favorite on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (136). Durrell Summers led Michigan State with 16 points, while Chris Allen and Draymond Green each netted 11 points. JaJuan Johnson went for 14 points and 10 rebounds to lift Purdue over Minnesota 59-58 on Wednesday night. Purdue couldn't cover as 3-point road favorites, while the game played UNDER the 134-point total listed by oddsmakers. Current streak: Purdue has won 10 straight games. Team records: Michigan State: 21-7 SU, 10-17 ATS Purdue: 24-3 SU, 12-14-1 ATS Michigan State most recently: When playing on Sunday are 8-2 Before playing Penn State are 7-3 After playing Ohio State are 6-4 After a loss are 8-2 Purdue most recently: When playing on Sunday are 7-3 Before playing Indiana are 4-6 After playing Minnesota are 4-6 After a win are 9-1 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Michigan State's last 8 games when playing on the road against Purdue The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Michigan State's last 7 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Michigan State's last 11 games when playing Purdue Michigan State is 16-5 SU in its last 21 games Purdue is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Purdue is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Purdue's last 8 games when playing at home against Michigan State Purdue is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Michigan State Next up: Michigan State home to Penn State, Thursday, March 4 Purdue home to Indiana, Wednesday, March 3

CBS NCAA Basketball Odds: Louisville vs Connecticut

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Louisville Cardinals and the Connecticut Huskies will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Gampel Pavilion. Oddsmakers currently have the Huskies listed as 4½-point favorites versus the Cardinals, while the game's total is sitting at 142. Edgar Sosa put up 24 points and eight assists for Louisville in its 70-60 loss to Georgetown on Tuesday night. Georgetown cashed as 4-point road underdogs, while the game played UNDER the 140.5-point total posted by oddsmakers. Kemba Walker dropped 21 points to lead Connecticut past West Virginia 73-62 on Monday night. UConn cashed as 2-point home underdogs, while the game played UNDER the 137.5-point total set by oddsmakers. Current streak: Connecticut has won 3 straight games. Team records: Louisville: 18-10 SU, 8-15 ATS Connecticut: 17-11 SU, 12-14 ATS Louisville most recently: When playing on Sunday are 6-4 Before playing Marquette are 9-1 After playing Georgetown are 4-2 After a loss are 7-3 Connecticut most recently: When playing on Sunday are 9-1 Before playing Notre Dame are 8-2 After playing West Virginia are 6-4 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Louisville's last 6 games The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Louisville's last 5 games on the road Louisville is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games Louisville is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Connecticut The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Connecticut's last 8 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Connecticut's last 6 games Connecticut is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games Connecticut is 19-5 SU in its last 24 games at home Next up: Louisville at Marquette, Tuesday, March 2 Connecticut at Notre Dame, Wednesday, March 3

ESPN2 NCAA Basketball Odds: Richmond vs Xavier

Courtesty of OddsShark.com The Richmond Spiders and the Xavier Musketeers will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Cintas Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Musketeers listed as 7-point favorites versus the Spiders, while the game's total is sitting at 137. Kevin Anderson tossed in 22 points to help Richmond defeat George Washington 74-70 on Saturday. Richmond covered the 9.5-point spread, while the 144 points sailed OVER the posted total of 127. Ryan Butler added 17 points for Richmond, and David Gonzalvez had 12 in the win. Current streak: Richmond has won 8 straight games. Xavier has won 4 straight games. Team records: Richmond: 22-6 SU, 15-9 ATS Xavier: 20-7 SU, 17-9 ATS Richmond most recently: When playing on Sunday are 6-4 Before playing Dayton are 6-4 After playing George Washington are 5-5 After a win are 8-2 Xavier most recently: When playing on Sunday are 7-3 Before playing Fordham are 8-2 After playing Saint Louis are 5-2 After a win are 8-2 A few trends to consider: Richmond is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Richmond is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games Richmond is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road Richmond is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road Xavier is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Xavier is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games Xavier is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games at home Xavier is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Richmond Next up: Richmond home to Dayton, Thursday, March 4 Xavier at Fordham, Wednesday, March 3

Canada vs. USA Gold Medal Hockey Start Time and Preview

The Canada vs. USA start time is 3:00 EST. Canada is the prohibitive favorite and Bodog says they will take home the Gold Medal.

While Team USA may have the always brash Brian Burke to thank for their mix of grinders, goal-scorers, no-names and stellar goaltending, Team Canada has general manager and former Detroit Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman to thank for putting together an A-Team of athletes.

"It comes down to character," said Yzerman, "and we believe we've got 23 guys with great character."

And speaking of which, Team Canada has Eric Staal, Sidney Crosby and Jarome Iginla. These guys have tightened things up and their line is eager to explode on the Americans. Boy do they want a rematch of last Sunday's game…with a different outcome, of course.

Joe Thornton, Ryan Getzlaf and Jonathan Toews are three of the strongest forwards going into the gold medal game and they're more than ready, too.

Canada's loss to the US resulted in the team getting an extra game to sort things out and iron out any wrinkles. Players that maybe weren't entirely confident about things at the start of the tournament had an extra game to gain the confidence needed to crush Russia.

Canada's win over Slovakia wasn't an easy one, but in looking back at their loss against the Americans Team Canada coach Mike Babcock had this to say: "We were too easy on Miller last time. We won't be this time."

And it would be unfair to the +18,000 fans expected to be on hand at Canada Hockey Place to rule out Roberto Luongo's popularity in Vancouver. As the captain of the Vancouver Canucks and the starting goalie for Team Canada, Luongo knows his role and he's ready to play the game of his life at the Vancouver Olympics.

"You work for something like this your whole life," Luongo said. "It's all about seizing the moment now."

Canada has won three straight with Luongo in net and is 4-0-0 when Luongo plays. He's got a .920 save percentage (stopping 81 of 87 shots), a 1.75 goals-against average and one shutout.

And finally, let's not forget that this final game is being played in Canada, the "host with the most" gold medals at the 2010 Olympics. With an entire nation believing…this has to be a game worth its weight in gold.

Things get underway at 12:00 p.m. Pacific, 3:00 p.m. Eastern.
Get your Olympic hockey betting at Bodog Sportsbook.

For more information: The best sports betting picks from world-class sports handicapper experts to beat the Vegas odds is on the OffshoreInsiders.com Network. It's where professional gamblers get their picks.

 

Watch Canada vs. USA Hockey, Win With Siena on Point Spread

What are the Olympic odds for the USA vs. Canada Gold Medal game in men's ice hockey? Canada is -223 at 5 Dimes.

Fantastic sports handicapper Matt Rivers is destroying the bookmakers Siena minus the points. They are laying a whopping 27 points.

I don't endorse laying such a number as this all that often nor do I think the key to success is to eat so much chalk but I truly do not see how this game can be remotely competitive.

No doubt Siena is not going to be all that excited to play this game but 1-27 Marist is so inept and pathetic that it's almost like a borderline top 25 squad in the Saints are playing a High School team today. Chuck Martin's squad is the biggest disaster in Division 1 this season and that is saying a ton. Not only do these guys lose game after game but also they do so in dreadful blowout fashion. If Marist were to play Southeast Missouri State or Fordham, they would get blasted and think about that.

Siena is still easily the class of the conference and the difference in athleticism today is too great for this thing to be at all a challenge. In that last game the Red Foxes scored a whole 14 points at home in the first half and fell 62-39 to St. Peter's.

Fran McCaffrey's team has dropped half of their last four games but I don't exactly think Marist at home can be compared to Butler and Niagara on the road.

There is absolutely no doubt that the Saints will improve to 24-6, as they will get a win here. The only question is when they are up by 30 with 7 minutes to play are they going to win by 40 or just cruise and get backdoored. In my humble opinion I just can't see even the Marist first teamers be able to do anything at all and this thing very easily may have 85-45 written all over it.

The pick: Siena -27 at Bodog

For more information:  I have nailed three straight 400,000* plays: Wednesday (DePaul), Thursday (Youngstown State) and Friday (Fairfield). A rare losing Saturday as Virginia Tech skunked me in a big play but that will mean nothing after nailing my fourth straight 400,000* right here and now.

Three of four winning days and 1.6 million* of profit over the past 43 days for Matt Rivers. Duke and Virginia is the big 400,000* today with a bonus 200,000* on Richmond and Xavier to complete this rock solid 2-0 sweep of the board. Click now to purchase  

 

Bodog Previews ESPN Odds: Villanova vs. Syracuse

Remarkable sports service ScoresOddsPicks has the College Basketball Game of the Year on ESPN. Super book Bodog previews the game.

The Big East regular-season title is on the line Saturday night at Syracuse's Carrier Dome, and there will be 34,616 there to see it – breaking the NCAA record for an on-campus crowd to see a college basketball game. And their Orange have opened as short favorites against Villanova on Bodog's NCAA Basketball Odds  

No. 4 Syracuse (26-2, 7-6 ATS at home), which previously held the NCAA on-campus record for a crowd as well (33,633 for a 2006 game against Villanova), can clinch the Big East title and quite likely a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament with a win. Strangely, however, the Orange's two losses have both come at home this season. And SU has to be a bit concerned about star Wesley Johnson. He has topped 15 points just once in six games this month and is shooting just 20-for-65 from the field (30.8 percent) in that stretch. Still, the Orange should be able to dominate the small Wildcats inside on Saturday night.

No. 7 Villanova (23-4, 5-4 ATS on road) can also win the conference regular-season crown if it wins out. Nova will need a big game from point guard Scottie Reynolds against that Syracuse 2-3 zone defense, and Reynolds has averaged 20.1 points this month. He only averaged 10 points in the two-game sweep of the Orange last year. Fellow starting guard Corey Stokes was issued a citation early Thursday morning for urinating in public, but Villanova Coach Jay Wright said that Stokes, who is averaging 9.0 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, will play Saturday. It's possible that Stokes doesn't start as punishment.

When making your college basketball bet at Bodog on this one, know that the Wildcats have held the upper hand in this series of late, winning at Syracuse in each of the past two seasons as well as five of the past six meetings overall.

Top expert pick on this game: It's Villanova-Syracuse on national TV tonight. ScoresOddsPicks is 20-6 with "named" plays. Get four winners Saturday including the College Basketball Game of the Year for Saturday night. Valparaiso last night makes it 20-6 with named plays. Click now to purchase  

Free Picks Saturday From Top Basketball Handicappers

The free pick section has several other point spread predictions. Will Jim Feist's Game of the Year be good enough to be re-released on Power of 620 sports services behind every selection, the MasterLockLine?

Let's start out the sports handicapping card with a premium sports service winner from GodsTips, the winningest handicapper ever.

They have the Utah Jazz -9.5 versus Houston at Bodog.  Here is why:  Houston of course made a blockbuster trade at the deadline. Such roster turnover means—it's time for one of our most profitable terms—consistently inconsistent. So the fact they are off such a great game last night means they will likely come out flat tonight.

Likewise, with hot Utah off a horrible game last night, they will be out for blood. The thin air of Utah is rough on teams in back to back situations.

Now to forensic sports handicapping founder Stevie Vincent. He has a LEVEL 3 PLAY is on SAN DIEGO over Pepperdine at SportsBook

Forensic ATS information on this game: Pepperdine 0-10 this year after two straight games with 12 or less assists, 3-13 playing second game in a week, 0-7 off three straight conference losses, 0-7 off double digit conference loss, 2-15 off loss, 0-8 to West Coast Conference

Courtesy of OddsShark.com: Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Celtics try to blow past the Nets, while Villanova battles Syracuse, and the top-ranked Jayhawks meet Oklahoma State.



Tipping off on the hardwood . . .

There are seven games on the NBA's schedule for Saturday, including Milwaukee at Miami, Chicago at Indiana, Memphis at New York, Portland at Minnesota, Houston at Utah, and Detroit at Golden State. As well, there's a matinee mismatch in Boston, with the Celtics playing host to the Nets. New Jersey (5-52 SU, 20-35-2 ATS) has lost four straight games, falling to Portland 102-93 last time out. The Celtics (36-20 SU, 21-34-1 ATS) were embarrassed 108-88 by Cleveland on Thursday, but they're 3-0 vs. the Nets so far this season.



As well, there are four ranked matchups on the college basketball schedule for Saturday, with No. 21 Texas at No. 22 Texas A&M, No. 10 New Mexico at No. 13 BYU, No. 2 Kentucky at No. 19 Tennessee, and No. 7 Villanova at No. 4 Syracuse. The Wildcats (23-4 SU, 17-9 ATS) beat South Florida 74-49 last time out, with Scottie Reynolds scoring 21 points for Villanova in that contest. The Orange (26-2 SU, 16-7 ATS) got past Providence 99-85 in their last game on Tuesday night. Rick Jackson poured in 28 points for Syracuse in that matchup.



Other games involving Top-10 teams on Saturday: Michigan at No. 9 Ohio State, Cincinnati at No. 8 West Virginia, Missouri at No. 6 Kansas State, and No. 1 Kansas at Oklahoma State. The top-ranked Jayhawks (27-1 SU, 10-14-1 ATS) blew past Oklahoma in an 81-68 win on Monday night; Xavier Henry scored 23 points for Kansas in that contest. The Cowboys (19-8 SU, 12-8-1 ATS) fell 69-59 to Texas in their last game Wednesday, with James Anderson scoring 14 points.



True, we've had more dominant seasons. No other handicapper has, but winning is routine for us. However, it's been steady winners all year long. Lately college basketball is on a 38-23 run with Wise Guys including Princeton part of a 2-1 overall performance last night. Get five Wise Guys and eight Majors right now in college basketball. A Major play in the NBA has been added. Click now to purchase 

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

Finally, the Olympic men's hockey tournament will stage its Bronze Medal Game on Saturday night, with Finland meeting Slovakia starting at 10pm ET. The Gold Medal Game, with the United States taking on Canada, is set for Sunday afternoon.

FSN NCAA Basketball Odds: Arizona State vs California

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Arizona State Sun Devils and the California Golden Bears will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Haas Pavilion. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Arizona State came back from s a seven point deficit and defeated Stanford 68-60 on Thursday. Arizona State covered the slight 2.5-point spread, while the 128 points went UNDER the posted total of 131. Eric Boateng led the way with a game-high 24 points from a perfect 11-for-11 from the field. Derek Glasser added 20 points in the win. California scored 52 points in the second half on Thursday, as they ran to a 95-71 victory over Arizona. California covered the 11.5-point spread, and the 166 points sailed OVER the posted total of 148.5. Jerome Randle poured in 24 points with seven assists. Current streak: Arizona State has won 4 straight games. California has won 2 straight games. Team records: Arizona State: 20-8 SU, 11-13 ATS California: 19-9 SU, 14-12-1 ATS Arizona State most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing USC are 4-6 After playing Stanford are 4-6 After a win are 7-3 California most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 Before playing Stanford are 7-3 After playing Arizona are 5-5 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 5 of Arizona State's last 5 games when playing California Arizona State is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games Arizona State is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road Arizona State is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road California is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 5 of California's last 5 games when playing Arizona State California is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games California is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games Next up: Arizona State home to USC, Thursday, March 4 California at Stanford, Saturday, March 6

ESPN2 NCAA Basketball Odds: Mississippi vs Alabama

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Mississippi Rebels and the Alabama Crimson Tide will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Coleman Coliseum. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Mississippi scored 63 points in the second half and raced to an 85-75 victory over Auburn on Wednesday. Mississippi covered the 9-point spread, while the 160 points made it OVER the posted total of 155. Chris Warrend led Mississippi with 26 points and six rebounds, while Terrico White had 21 points in the win. Mikhail Torrance scored 23 points for Alabama in its 74-66 loss to Mississippi State on Wednesday night. Mississippi State covered as 7-point home favorites, while the teams played OVER the 131.5-point total listed by sportsbooks. Current streak: Alabama has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Mississippi: 18-9 SU, 13-9-1 ATS Alabama: 14-13 SU, 10-12-2 ATS Mississippi most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing LSU are 6-4 After playing Auburn are 3-7 After a win are 5-5 Alabama most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing South Carolina are 7-3 After playing Mississippi State are 4-6 After a loss are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Mississippi is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 4 of Mississippi's last 5 games when playing Alabama The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Mississippi's last 5 games when playing on the road against Alabama The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Mississippi's last 16 games on the road Alabama is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Mississippi Alabama is 10-2 ATS in its last 12 games when playing at home against Mississippi The total has gone OVER in 4 of Alabama's last 5 games The total has gone OVER in 4 of Alabama's last 5 games when playing Mississippi Next up: Mississippi home to LSU, Thursday, March 4 Alabama at South Carolina, Wednesday, March 3

ESPN NCAA Basketball Odds: Texas vs Texas A&M

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Texas Longhorns and the Texas A&M Aggies will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Reed Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Damion James had 19 points and seven rebounds to lead Texas over Oklahoma State 69-59 on Wednesday night. Texas covered as 9-point home favorites, while the game played UNDER the 150.5-point total listed by oddsmakers. Donald Sloan scored 22 points for Texas A&M in its 70-66 loss to Baylor on Wednesday night. Baylor couldn't cover as 6.5-point home favorites, while the game played UNDER the 143.5-point total posted by oddsmakers. Current streak: Texas has won 2 straight games. Team records: Texas: 22-6 SU, 11-13 ATS Texas A&M: 19-8 SU, 15-8 ATS Texas most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Oklahoma are 8-2 After playing Oklahoma State are 7-3 After a win are 6-4 Texas A&M most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing Oklahoma State are 9-1 After playing Baylor are 5-5 After a loss are 8-2 A few trends to consider: Texas is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games Texas is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games when playing Texas A&M The total has gone OVER in 6 of Texas's last 9 games on the road Texas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road Texas A&M is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games Texas A&M is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Texas Texas A&M is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Texas Texas A&M is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home Next up: Texas home to Oklahoma, Monday, March 1 Texas A&M home to Oklahoma State, Wednesday, March 3

CBS NCAA Basketball Odds: North Carolina vs Wake Forest

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The North Carolina Tar Heels and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Joel Coliseum. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. North Carolina was defeated 77-67 by Florida State last time out, as 2.5-point underdogs. That game's 144 points made it OVER the posted total of 139. Will Graves shot 6-for-13 from the field with 21 points. Wake Forest was upset by North Carolina State, 68-54, at the RBC Center Saturday. NC State covered as a 1.5-point home underdog while the final score played UNDER the 141-point total. Current streak: North Carolina has lost 3 straight games. Wake Forest has lost 2 straight games. Team records: North Carolina: 14-14 SU, 7-18 ATS Wake Forest: 18-7 SU, 13-9 ATS North Carolina most recently: When playing on Saturday are 9-1 Before playing Miami are 6-4 After playing Florida State are 7-3 After a loss are 3-7 Wake Forest most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Florida State are 6-4 After playing North Carolina State are 5-5 After a loss are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 11 of North Carolina's last 13 games The total has gone UNDER in 5 of North Carolina's last 6 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 5 of North Carolina's last 7 games when playing Wake Forest North Carolina is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Wake Forest Wake Forest is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Wake Forest is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games Wake Forest is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Wake Forest's last 9 games Next up: North Carolina home to Miami, Tuesday, March 2 Wake Forest at Florida State, Wednesday, March 3

ESPN NCAA Basketball Odds: Northeastern vs George Mason

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The fans at Patriot Center will be treated to a game between the Northeastern Huskies and the George Mason Patriots when they take their seats on Saturday. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Current streak: Northeastern has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Northeastern: 18-11 SU, 16-11-1 ATS George Mason: 17-12 SU, 10-15-1 ATS Northeastern most recently: When playing on Saturday are 3-7 After playing Hofstra are 7-3 After a loss are 5-5 George Mason most recently: When playing on Saturday are 9-1 After playing Delaware are 5-5 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Northeastern is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games on the road Northeastern is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games on the road Northeastern is 16-4 SU in its last 20 games The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Northeastern's last 5 games on the road George Mason is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Northeastern George Mason is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Northeastern George Mason is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games at home The total has gone OVER in 4 of George Mason's last 5 games at home

ESPN NCAA Basketball Odds: Michigan vs Ohio State

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Value City Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Manny Harris had 15 points and 11 boards for Michigan in its 51-44 loss to Illinois on Tuesday night. Illinois cashed as 2.5-point road underdogs, while the game played UNDER the 128.5-point total listed by oddsmakers. Evan Turner led Ohio State with a game-high 25 points on Wednesday, as they defeated Penn State 75-67. Ohio State managed to cover the 7.5-point spread, and the combined score made it OVER the posted total of 128. Turner also had six rebounds and seven assists, while David Lighty added 18 points in that win. Current streak: Michigan has lost 2 straight games. Ohio State has won 2 straight games. Team records: Michigan: 13-14 SU, 11-12 ATS Ohio State: 22-7 SU, 15-14 ATS Michigan most recently: When playing on Saturday are 4-6 Before playing Minnesota are 2-8 After playing Illinois are 5-5 After a loss are 6-4 Ohio State most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Illinois are 7-3 After playing Penn State are 5-5 After a win are 8-2 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Michigan's last 14 games Michigan is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Michigan's last 6 games on the road The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Michigan's last 6 games when playing on the road against Ohio State Ohio State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Michigan Ohio State is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games at home Ohio State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games Ohio State is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Michigan Next up: Michigan home to Minnesota, Tuesday, March 2 Ohio State home to Illinois, Tuesday, March 2

NCAA Basketball Handicapping: Notre Dame vs Georgetown

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The fans at Verizon Center will be treated to a game between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Georgetown Hoyas when they take their seats on Saturday. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Notre Dame pounded their way through Pittsburgh for a 68-53 upset win on Wednesday, as 1.5-point underdogs. That game's combined score went UNDER the posted total of 138.5. Ben Hansbrough led the way with 15 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double for Notre Dame, and Tim Abromaitis collected 17 in the win. Austin Freeman drained 29 points to lead Georgetown past Louisville 70-60 on Tuesday night. Georgetown cashed as 4-point road underdogs, while the game played UNDER the 140.5-point total posted by oddsmakers. Team records: Notre Dame: 18-10 SU, 11-10-1 ATS Georgetown: 19-7 SU, 12-10 ATS Notre Dame most recently: When playing on Saturday are 3-7 Before playing Connecticut are 8-2 After playing Pittsburgh are 5-5 After a win are 5-5 Georgetown most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing West Virginia are 6-4 After playing Louisville are 5-1 After a win are 5-5 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Notre Dame's last 12 games Notre Dame is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games Notre Dame is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Georgetown Notre Dame is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Georgetown The total has gone OVER in 5 of Georgetown's last 5 games at home Georgetown is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Notre Dame Georgetown is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Notre Dame Georgetown is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home Next up: Notre Dame home to Connecticut, Wednesday, March 3 Georgetown at West Virginia, Monday, March 1

NCAA Basketball Betting: Kentucky vs Tennessee

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Kentucky Wildcats and the Tennessee Volunteers will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Thompson-Boling Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Kentucky clawed their way out to an 11 point lead en route to an 82-61 victory over South Carolina on Thursday. Kentucky covered the 16-point spread, while the 143 points went UNDER the posted total of 146. Patrick Patterson led Kentucky with 23 points and eight rebounds, while DeMarcus Cousins added 19 points in the win. Scotty Hopson dropped 20 points for Tennessee in its 75-62 loss to Florida on Tuesday night. Florida covered as 2.5-point home favorites, while the teams played OVER the 136.5-point total listed by oddsmakers. Current streak: Kentucky has won 8 straight games. Team records: Kentucky: 27-1 SU, 15-11 ATS Tennessee: 20-7 SU, 10-13-1 ATS Kentucky most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Georgia are 5-5 After playing South Carolina are 6-4 After a win are 9-1 Tennessee most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 Before playing Arkansas are 9-1 After playing Florida are 8-2 After a loss are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Kentucky is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Kentucky is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Tennessee Kentucky is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games on the road Kentucky is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games Tennessee is 16-1 SU in its last 17 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tennessee's last 7 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tennessee's last 5 games when playing Kentucky The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee's last 5 games when playing at home against Kentucky Next up: Kentucky at Georgia, Wednesday, March 3 Tennessee home to Arkansas, Wednesday, March 3

Syracuse vs. Villanova

Senior Handicapper Matt Rivers has a free pick on Villanova plus the points. They are at Syracuse getting 5.5.

Syracuse has been great this season and at the Carrier Dome should be able to beat anybody. But to get Jay Wright's also great Wildcats plus a handful at any time is just a no-brainer that cannot be passed up.

Villanova is a team that has a legitimate shot to win it all this season. Syracuse does too with that great matchup zone but this game really is pretty even as both teams have been targeting this game for a while now. Could Andy Rautins bomb away and the Orangemen win this thing by eight? Sure they could. But Scottie Reynolds could also be the best player on the court and the visiting Wildcats could win by eight as well.

Both of these teams won at West Virginia and both have proven to be the elite in the elite Big East Conference. The road has not been all that dreadful for either of these teams so I don't really see it being a huge disadvantage here for the visitors.

As we saw last year in the tournament run the Wildcats are a very deep and athletic team that completely embarrassed both Duke and UCLA. This team is well coached and overall no joke that will not just crap in their pants in a big spot.

There is not much at all that I can criticize Jim Boeheim and his squad for, as they are a gaudy 26-2 overall and 13-2 in-conference. 'Cuse though, when push comes to shove is not as deep and athletic as the 'Cats and even at home are going to be in for a back and forth fight until the bitter end.

This is going to be a battle of the heavyweights and in the end can go either way so I'm fine with an upper echelon team plus the points.

The pick: Villanova +5.5 at Bodog

For more information:  I am absolutely sizzling right now and nothing at all changes today, nothing. 39-19 all-time with my highest rated 500,000* plays and very soon will brag about being 40-19. I've had three straight winning days, including three straight winning 400,000* after Fairfield easy on Friday. 10-4 with my 400,000* plays in my career. I'm now up over 1.2 million* of profit in these three days and 2.2 million* over the past month plus.

Get a 500,000* Maryland-Virginia Tech is a slam-dunk mortal lock plus a 200,000* Cincinnati-West Virginia and a pair of 100,000* involving Kentucky-Tennessee and Minnesota-Illinois. Click now to purchase  

 

NBA Betting – Grizzlies, Knicks set for shootout

Online betting players should check the total in their sportsbook for Saturday's game between Memphis and New York, two teams that struggle on the defensive end of the floor, but have no problem at the other end.

Grizzlies vs Knicks odds – Saturday, February 27, 7:30 PM ET

The Grizzlies had alternated wins and losses since the All-Star break ahead of Friday's game at home against Charlotte, and after a tough one-point loss to the Lakers, the Grizzlies came away with a 99-94 win in Washington on Wednesday, and they proved that they could play defense when they want to. Zach Randolph led the way with 22 points, while Rudy Gay and Marc Gasol had 20 apiece for the Grizzlies, who are reportedly sending Hasheem Thabeet, the No.2 pick in last year's draft, to the D-League. Thabeet was supposed to come in and help the Grizzlies with their defensive play, given that he was a beast of a shotblocker at UConn, but it hasn't translated to the pros.

The Knicks will also play on Friday, in Washington, and they'll be hoping to have an eight-game losing skid stopped by the time Memphis comes to town. The Knicks fell 110-106 in Boston on Tuesday night, and ironically, it was the first game for Nate Robinson in a Boston uniform after the Knicks traded him to Beantown. David Lee had 28 points and 15 boards for the Knicks, and Tracy McGrady didn't have a good game, going 3-of-8 for six points, although he did add eight assists. We have to remember that McGrady has played sparingly over the last two years because of his knee injury, and he'll be better once he gets his legs back. It won't matter, though, because the Knicks just can't stop anyone on defense.

US sportsbook odds (US sportsbook review) should favor the Knicks at home, and these two have split their last 10 meetings. This is their first meeting of the season, and you have to think the over is a good play based on defensive numbers: as of Thursday, the Grizzlies had allowed 103.1 points per game, while the Knicks have given up 104.2 points. The Grizzlies have shown they can play defense, and not only against teams like Washington, who was missing Josh Howard and have basically thrown in the towel on the season, but they kept it close with the Lakers before a last-second dagger from Kobe Bryant. The Knicks just try to outscore you, and sooner or later, you're going to have to play defense, which this New York team doesn't even seem interested in. The Grizzlies have further to travel after Friday's game in Charlotte, but Madison Square Garden tends to bring out the best in the opposition, and Randolph would love to stick it to his former team.

NBA betting pick: Memphis 

Matt Rivers Sports Picks College Basketball Spreads

As dominant as the USA's hockey team first period against Finland was, that's what Matt Rivers has done to the sportsbook.  Rivers was the winningest handicapper ever—nobody came close—on a large network of sites before coming to the show.

Tonight he has Brown plus the points. They are getting 16 points at Harvard according to the Olympic odds.

Here is what Rivers says:  

Harvard is a very very good Ivy League team that has proven a ton to me this season. They have played legitimate teams and held their own including upsetting Boston College and staying toe-to toe with UCONN. Tommy Amaker has really built up this program and right now they are second best in the conference behind only Cornell. They did lose to Princeton as the Tigers are pretty good themselves but the Crimson are still the superior team of those two.

Harvard is well superior to tonight's opponent in Brown but this number just feels a little too large to me. The Bears are mediocre at best and a middling squad in this conference but they just shocked Princeton on the road as a very similar pup and should be feeling alright about themselves here.

The Bears have won two in a row, to start this four game road trip, and three of their last four with the only defeat coming at home against Harvard setting up a potential for payback right here. No I don't think we will see an outright but that five game losing streak is a thing of the past and Jesse Agel's team seems to be coming around a bit of late.

There is no doubt that Jeremy Lin is the best player on the court and he should score his usual 20 or so but in the end this price seems to be a little too steep. The Crimson should roll but something in the range of 68-60.

For more information: I just continue to bury the man as the 400,000* on Youngstown State on Thursday and the 400,000* on DePaul on Wednesday prove. A third straight monster 400,000* winner and winning day is here as I am about to improve to 10-4 with these plays all-time. Iona and Fairfield is the rock solid lock

I am on a 39-29-1 run for a positive 2 million* of profit in the past 41 days. A bonus 200,000* on Niagara and Manhattan to round out the 2-0 sweep of the board. Click now to purchase  

  

CR Johnson Killed; ESPN Falls Prey to Brian Westbrook Hoax

The Olympic odds continue today from Vancouver. Bodog has odds posted on the TNT double-header plus all the ESPN family of networks games.

Sports headlines…

X-games skier CR Johnson was killed in a fall at Squaw Valley. Johnson was 26…SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau was killed during a show by a shamu killer whale. She was 40 years old…ESPN was a victim of a hoax by a caller pretending to be Brian Westbrook. The four-letter evil empire which suspended host Tony Kornheiser for joking about the wardrobe of Hannah Storm, looked borderline moronic when they allowed the prankster on the air.

Sportsbook odds are posted for men's hockey semi-final action. The Finland vs. United States odds has the USA at -174 while Slovakia-Canada has the Canadians at -875.

Free sports picks…

OffshoreInsiders.com Senior Handicapper, Generation Zero tipster Matt Rivers has Arizona State -2.5 at Stanford.

Stanford has been alright at home this season and Green and Fields are quality players but when push comes to shove right now I can't help but back the more talented and superior Sun Devils, even on the road here as the dreaded road chalk.

Arizona State has not exactly overachieved this season but when you lose great players in Harden and Pendergraph that is hard to do. Herb Sendek's team has been pretty good though at 19-8 is still not terrible and at 9-5 in the Pac-10 these guys are right there at the top looking for the conference title, just a half game behind Cal. Derek Glasser is your typical solid point guard that has experience and can get the job done and Abbott, Kuksiks and Boateng are quality players who can fill it up.

ASU has now won three in a row and five of six including four of the last five away from Tempe. Just the other day Sendek's squad outclassed Arizona in Tucson and is coming into Palo Alto playing quite possibly their best ball of the year and with a ton of momentum.

Stanford at home should be good enough to compete here and they have actually won two straight and three of four. Johnny Dawkins' team has some upside to be a little bit dangerous as any team does that boasts two talented scorers but the Cardinal are going nowhere this season and are in too tough of a spot today.

The Pick: Arizona State at SportsBook The final score will be 64-57 in favor of the Sun Devils.

For more information:  I am 8-4 lifetime now with my 400,000* plays after the Blue Demons. 38-28-1 run for a positive 1.7 million* of profit in the past 40 days. Only Okie State missing the cover by a point prevented another 3-0 Wednesday Sweep. Two rock solid plays today including the big one from the Horizon League between Wright State and Youngstown State along with a bonus Big Ten lock involving Wisconsin and Indiana. Click now to purchase  

Also, the greatest debut of any sports betting service continues tonight with ScoresOddsPicks. They have the late TNT winner.

Denver Nuggets (-5.5) at Golden State Warriors – 10:30 p.m. ET

Denver (37-19, 26-27-3 ATS) has cooled off in February, going 4-4 in its last eight games. The results have been nearly identical against the spread at 4-3-1 during that same stretch. The Nuggets have done a solid job covering on the road; although they1-1-1 ATS in their past three road games, they've gone a solid 5-3-2 against the point spread in their past 10 games away from home.

Golden State (16-40, 31-24-1 ATS) has won just three times in its past 10 games, but the Warriors have been slightly better against the spread, covering half of those games. Playing at Oracle Arena hasn't helped much—Golden State is 4-6 against the spread in its past 10 home games, though it's a slightly improved 3-2 in its past five.

While Denver has dominated the head-to-head series, winning eight of 10, Golden State has managed a 5-5 split against the spread. Both teams like to run wild but, at least compared to the Warriors, Denver has some semblance of a defense.

Pick: Denver -5.5 at Bodog

For more information: Texas A&M makes "named" plays 18-6. Get the SEC Best Bet of the Year among five locks. Click now to purchase ScoresOddsPicks. At $7.99, they are the world's most inexpensive winning sports service.

Top betting trends…

All records are against the spread. In the NBA, Denver Nuggets are 10-0-1 with three or more days rest. The Minnesota Timberwolves have covered seven straight to the Northwest Division.

 

NBA Betting – Cavs, Celtics renew hostilities on Thursday

Cleveland is still the online betting favorite in the NBA's Eastern Conference, but they know they may have to contend with Boston at some point, and no matter how many people say they're aging and over the hill, the Celtics are a team no one wants to face the postseason. The Celtics will welcome the Cavs to Boston on Thursday night in the opening game of TNT's weekly double-header.

Cavaliers vs Celtics odds – Thursday, February 25, 8:00 PM ET

The Cavaliers (44-14) ended a three-game skid with a 105-95 win over New Orleans on Tuesday night, and for once, they got a balanced performance on the offensive end as six players reached double figures. LeBron James and Shaquille O'Neal had 20 points apiece, while James added 13 assists and five rebounds for the Cavaliers, who had just eight turnovers and shot 48.8% from the floor. Antawn Jamison is getting more comfortable with his new teammates, as he had 18 points and six rebounds, and if the Cavaliers can continue to get this kind of support from the secondary players, that makes James even more dangerous.


The Celtics (36-19) have a new face of their own, Nate Robinson, and he made his debut against the team that traded him, New York, after missing all three games since the All-Star break with the flu. Robinson had just four points in 16 minutes of a 110-106 win for Boston over the Knicks on Tuesday. All five Boston starters reached double digits, led by Ray Allen's 24 points, and the veteran has been on fire lately, averaging 21.8 points over his last five games. Allen was the subject of trade rumors right up until the deadline, and the Celtics may have picked up Robinson in case the 34-year-old continued to struggle. We're betting management is happy they didn't move him.

These two haven't played since opening night, when the Celtics pulled out a 95-89 win in Cleveland behind 23 points from Paul Pierce. James had 38 points and eight assists in the loss for the Cavaliers, who have dropped three of their last five overall to the Celtics. Cleveland have dropped their last nine in Beantown, and four of those have been by five points or less. The Celtics have been rolling since the All-Star break, and they'll only get better as Robinson gets used to the system in Boston, as it's definitely more disciplined than the run-and-gun way in New York under Mike D'Antoni. The Cavaliers are coming off disappointing road losses Charlotte and Orlando, and this will be the first half of an away back-to-back as they head to Toronto on Friday night. Look for James to do everything he can do to end the Boston jinx, with help from Jamison, who will go at Kevin Garnett.

NBA betting pick: Cleveland

Russia-Canada Bet Odds

Jonas Hiller was the pillar, but Miller won the thriller. The rest is mere filler. So let me go to the distiller get something to put in the chiller to watch during the Canada-Russia battle of gorilla vs. gila. 

The latest Olympic odds for Canada vs. Russia is the Canucks -150 at Bodog

 

Lakers v. Mavericks ESPN Picks

The Olympic odds are red hot for Olympic figure skating and hockey as the USA is ready to take on Switzerland and the Canada-Russia game will have the Great White North glued to their televisions.

It's the Los Angeles Lakers at Dallas Mavericks with ESPN odds having the Mavericks (-1.5) – 9:00 p.m. ET. Super hot ScoresOddsPicks has a premium pick winner on that game.

The Lakers (43-14, 25-31-2 ATS) had been without Kobe Bryant (ankle) for five straight games but they still managed a 4-1 run biting the books like a woodlouse spider. They weren't quite as good against the spread in that stretch, though, going 3-2. Kobe returned to the Los Angeles lineup last night against the Grizzlies and delivered in dramatic fashion; he scored 32 points, including the game-winning three-pointer with 4.3 seconds left. It wasn't enough to cover for NBA betting fans, though. Los Angeles has been great on the road, going 6-3-1 ATS in its last 10 games away from home.

Dallas (36-21, 23-34 ATS) has collected four consecutive victories straight up. Results were mixed against NBA odds, with a 2-2 record against the spread; the Mavericks haven't been very good at all over their past 10 games ATS (3-7). With Josh Howard gone, though, perhaps the team can move on from all the distractions and just play good basketball. Unfortunately, the Mavs have played horrendous basketball at home; Dallas is 1-9 against the point spread in its past 10 games at American Airlines Center.

Los Angeles has owned this series straight up, winning eight of 10, but it's been another story on NBA lines. The Mavericks hold a slight 5-4-1 edge against the spread in their last 10 games against L.A. The Lakers have won two straight, though, and with Kobe back and in fine form, bet on Los Angeles to keep rolling on the road.

Bet sports picks: Los Angeles Lakers

Sports Handicapper Matt Rivers Free Pick

Sports bettors mourn the death of fan favorite Mosi Tatupu and the Olympic odds focuses on Winter Olympics hockey lines of Switzerland vs. USA and Canada vs. Russia, but don't forget basketball betting.

Matt Rivers, Senior Sports Handicapper at OffshoreInsiders.com has a free sports pick on Maryland minus the points. They are laying 4.5 hosting Clemson at SportsBook

Rivers says: Just too many factors in the corner of the Turtle here to not back them a little.

For one the Terrapins have a score to settle after losing an ugly slugfest about a month ago at Littlejohn. Neither team played particularly well that night and the Tigers were able to score a little bit late as Gary Williams' squad did not score in the game's final four minutes.

Back home you have to flat out fear the turtle right now. Oliver Purnell's Tigers do defend very well but besides Trevor Booker and maybe Demontez Stitt I'm not all impressed with Clemson offensively. To think they are going to be able to keep pace with Greivis Vasquez and the Terps at Cole Fieldhouse does not seem very realistic to me.

Maryland is a great team when at home. They did not play one of their better games the other day but still managed to nail the three at the buzzer to upend a game Georgia Tech squad. Riding that momentum and having some revenge should be able to keep the Terps' players extremely focused tonight.

Williams has an experienced team with Vasquez, Milbourne, Hayes and Mosley and these guys have pretty much blown out all comers at home, save the Yellow Jackets, ever since the William & Mary debacle much earlier in the season. I'm talking about 20-25 point burials in front of their home fans and I can't help but believe that history repeats itself tonight. The pick: Maryland -4 at Bodog

For more information: 7-4 lifetime with my 400,000* plays and another one is here from Cincinnati. Can the Blue Demons stay within this number or is this thing destined to be a total burial? I'm on a 36-27-1 run for a positive 1.1 million* of profit in the past 39 days. Georgia State getting outscored 8-0 in the final minute prevented what would have been another amazing 2-0 Tuesday sweep as Hofstra won outright. Click now to purchase 

 

ESPN2 NCAA Basketball Odds: Idaho vs New Mexico State

The Idaho Vandals and the New Mexico State Aggies will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Pan American Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Current streak: New Mexico State has won 2 straight games. Team records: Idaho: 13-13 SU, 9-11 ATS New Mexico State: 17-9 SU, 12-9 ATS Idaho most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 3-7 Before playing Louisiana Tech are 3-7 After playing Long Beach State are 2-8 After a loss are 5-5 New Mexico State most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 2-8 Before playing Boise State are 8-2 After playing Pacific are 6-3 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Idaho's last 5 games when playing New Mexico State Idaho is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New Mexico State Idaho is 1-11 SU in its last 12 games when playing New Mexico State Idaho is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Mexico State New Mexico State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Idaho New Mexico State is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games when playing Idaho New Mexico State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home New Mexico State is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games Next up: Idaho at Louisiana Tech, Saturday, February 27 New Mexico State home to Boise State, Saturday, February 27

ESPN2 NCAA Basketball Odds: Oklahoma State vs Texas

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Oklahoma State Cowboys and the Texas Longhorns will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Frank Erwin Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Oklahoma State got an important resume win over Baylor, 82-75, at Gallagher-Iba Arena Saturday. OSU covered as a 2.5-point home favorite while the final score played OVER the 143-point total. Texas suffered numerous injuries but escaped with a 71-67 win over Texas Tech at United Spirit Arena Saturday. Texas Tech covered as a 6.5-point home underdog while the final score played UNDER the 155-point total. Current streak: Oklahoma State has won 3 straight games. Team records: Oklahoma State: 19-7 SU, 12-7-1 ATS Texas: 21-6 SU, 10-13 ATS Oklahoma State most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 5-5 Before playing Kansas are 7-3 After playing Baylor are 5-5 After a win are 7-3 Texas most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 8-2 Before playing Texas A&M are 9-1 After playing Texas Tech are 6-4 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oklahoma State's last 8 games when playing Texas The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oklahoma State's last 8 games when playing on the road against Texas Oklahoma State is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oklahoma State's last 7 games Texas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Oklahoma State Texas is 16-2 SU in its last 18 games at home Texas is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Oklahoma State The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Texas's last 8 games when playing Oklahoma State Next up: Oklahoma State home to Kansas, Saturday, February 27 Texas at Texas A&M, Saturday, February 27

ESPN2 NCAA Basketball Odds: Pittsburgh vs Notre Dame

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Pittsburgh Panthers and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at Joyce Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Pittsburgh defeated Villanova 70-65 as a 2.5-pount underdog on Sunday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (146.5). Ashton Gibbs poured in a game-high 21 points for Pittsburgh and Gilbert Brown added 16 points in the win. Notre Dame lost to Louisville 91-89 in double overtime as an 11.5-point underdog on Wednesday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (146.5). Tim Abromaitis led Notre Dame with 29 points and Ben Hansbrough had 21 points. Current streak: Pittsburgh has won 5 straight games. Notre Dame has lost 3 straight games. Team records: Pittsburgh: 21-6 SU, 14-8-2 ATS Notre Dame: 17-10 SU, 10-10-1 ATS Pittsburgh most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 5-5 Before playing St. John's are 7-3 After playing Villanova are 6-4 After a win are 8-2 Notre Dame most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 6-4 Before playing Georgetown are 6-4 After playing Louisville are 3-2 After a loss are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Pittsburgh is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Pittsburgh is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Notre Dame The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games on the road Pittsburgh is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road Notre Dame is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Notre Dame's last 6 games at home Notre Dame is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh Notre Dame is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games Next up: Pittsburgh at St. John's, Saturday, February 27 Notre Dame at Georgetown, Saturday, February 27

ESPN NCAA Basketball Odds: Florida State vs North Carolina

Courtesy of OddsShark.com The Florida State Seminoles and the North Carolina Tar Heels will both be gunning for a victory on Wednesday when they meet at Dean Smith Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Florida State defeated Virginia 69-50 as a pick'em on Wednesday. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (126). Chris Singleton netted 12 points for Florida State and Luke Loucks added 11 points in the win. North Carolina continues to struggle in ACC play, falling 71-67 to Boston College at the Silvio O. Conte Forum Saturday. Boston College covered as a 3-point home favorite while the final score played UNDER the 143.5-point total. Current streak: Florida State has won 2 straight games. North Carolina has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Florida State: 19-7 SU, 7-14 ATS North Carolina: 14-13 SU, 7-17 ATS Florida State most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 7-3 Before playing Clemson are 7-3 After playing Virginia are 2-8 After a win are 6-4 North Carolina most recently: When playing on Wednesday are 9-1 Before playing Wake Forest are 8-2 After playing Boston College are 7-0 After a loss are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Florida State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing North Carolina Florida State is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against North Carolina Florida State is 16-6 SU in its last 22 games The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Florida State's last 9 games The total has gone UNDER in 5 of North Carolina's last 5 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 11 of North Carolina's last 12 games North Carolina is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing Florida State North Carolina is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Florida State Next up: Florida State home to Clemson, Sunday, February 28 North Carolina at Wake Forest, Saturday, February 27

NBA Game Preview – Lakers-Mavericks Preview

 This Wednesday we have a matchup of two of the best teams in the Western Conference when the Los Angeles Lakers travel to Dallas to take on Dirk Nowitzki and the revamped Mavericks. Kobe Bryant will be back in action after sitting out for the last couple of weeks for this possible preview of a playoff series.

Los Angeles Lakers (42-14, 1^st in Western Conference) @ Dallas Mavericks (36-21, 4^th in Western Conference)

NBA odds (*note lines are approximations as they have not been posted at the time of writing)

Spread: Even (0)

Total: 203

Money Lines: Off

Why LA will win

The Lakers had to play without Kobe Bryant for the last five games. They did not slow down without him going 4-1 with their only loss coming against Boston, and it was a one point loss (87-86 in LA). That being said, having Kobe back is just going to make them better. Kobe is having another fantastic year averaging 28 points, 4.6 assists and 5.3 rebounds a game. Kobe will get a chance to shake the rust off against the sliding Grizzlies Tuesday night before this big game in Dallas. LA's twin towers attack of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum is devastating to most teams, especially ones that lack interior size. Gasol has shown he is one of the best in the game averaging 17.2 points and 11.4 rebounds a game. Gasol's experience and skill are perhaps more irrerplaceable than Kobe's production on this team. F Lamar Odom is still among the league's best per minute performers and can either start or come off the bench as a sixth man and dominate. Odom is too good all on his lonesome for some teams to handle. With Ron Artest's defensive prowess hanging tough at SF, teams without blazing quickness have trouble scoring against the Lakers. If there was a weakness to the reigning champions, it is the point guard position. Derek Fisher appears to have already retired, although he doesn't know it yet and Jordan Farmar has improved, but still lacks defense and consistency from three point range (36.5%). Neither of the two can play defense and any team with a speedy point guard will see tremendous production from that player. The Mavs however do not have a speedy point guard (Jason Kidd) and will not be able to exploit the weakness of the Lakers.

Why Dallas will win

If the Mavericks are to be contenders this year for the championship, they are going to have to win games like this. Before the trade deadline Dallas dumped Josh Howard and Drew Gooden and got back Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood (and the corpse of DeShawn Stevenson). Butler is an athletic G/F that can get to the hoop and create his own shot. He will be guarding Kobe in this game and will have his hands full, but he will be an improvement over Josh Howard. C Brendan Haywood is the defensive juggernaut that Dallas needed. The center averages over 10 rebounds and 2 blocks a game and will have big responsibilities in this one against the Lakers' tandem of big men. F Dirk Nowitzki has had an MVP like season for the Mavericks averaging 24.7 points and 7.6 rebounds a game. A closer look behind those numbers reveals that Dirk's style of play is problematic for defenders as he has unlimited range and can get his shot at will with his seven foot frame. Expect Gasol to have to play a bit out of position covering Dirk and Artest to try to take away Dirk on the perimeter. Either way Dirk has the advantage and Bynum vs. Haywood should be a wash. Expect to see F Shawn Marion, who has been a shot in the arm for the Mavs on defense and perennial sixth man of the year candidate G Jason Terry step up and hit key shots and play solid defense. Surefire hall of fame PG Jason Kidd will have an easy time with Fisher and Farmar and the Dallas offense at home should be in full effect.

Betting Tips: Prediction

The Lakers are back to full strength and the Mavs made all the right moves at the deadline. These two teams are throwing their best lineups at each other and this game will have a playoff atmosphere about it. Expect this one to be close throughout, and maybe go to overtime. In the end, I like Dirk to win this one for the home crowd as the Mavs knock off the Lakers.

Final: Dallas 108 – LA 107 OT

Sportsbook review : This is a stay away game. You might as well flip a coin if you want to bet on this one.