NBA threesome

NYK +6 vs CHA

I had a feeling the Knicks would show up last night and they did, covering against the Raptors. They haven't been great against the spread in two straight games all season and it definitely won't be easy against the resurgent Charlotte squad formerly known as the B Catz as well. In the end Jeremy Lamb and his bench of college all stars don't scare me enough not to take the points.

IND +3.5 vs BOS

Have you had the chance to watch Paul George play in the last week? If not, do yourself a favor and turn on the next Pacers game. PG has shed that early rust and is looking like the guy who tore up the league two seasons ago. Averaging 30 in his last three games, let's hope he's back to 100%. Meanwhile the Celtics are solid, but who are they really scaring? 

DET +1 vs SAC

Getting a point for a team that I love to bet on against the most dysfunctional organization in sports, sign me up!! The Kings just had a players only meeting to discuss their very poor start, but those never end up with a complete turnaround. Look for the Pistons to out coach, out hustle, and out play the Kings en route to a twenty point victory.

NBA Playoffs Round One

LAC (+5) vs SAS Definitely not ready to spot the Spurs five, when the only difference in the last game was Blake Griffin turning the ball over up two with eight seconds left. It was ugly sure, but it doesn't tell the story of this series. Spurs are way too banged up to be able to handle a pissed off Clippers team. HOU vs DAL (+2) We always have to go with the picks that seem a little too good to be true, and this is definitely one of those lines. Houston has dominated every facet of this series so it was pretty shocking to see H town only favored by 2 here right? Then we realized that Rondo has been sidelined for the rest of the series, remember how good the Mavs were for the first six weeks of the season before him? Look for that team to show up tonight. TOR vs WAS (-5) I don't care if they moved this line all the way down to double digitz, I would still take it. The raptors have been exposed on both ends of the court, and today I read an article about how the GM expects big changes after the season. Never good when those articles come out while the team is actually still playing games! If you want to call what Toronto has done in this series playing that is. J Wall and Co roll in chocolate city.

NBA and NHL Tuesday Night

2014-15 NBA Record: 20-15

Mr. Nutz:

OKC @ MIL (-3)

I'm sorry if I'm beating a dead centaur here, but I hate the Oklahoma City Thunder. Especially when they don't have the leagues most valuable player with no real position, Russell Westbrook. The Thunder are relying on Reggie Jackson, HEAVILY, along with Sebastian Telfair and Serge Ibaka. I don't care, just take the points every night from here on out. The Bucks have a Greek Freak who coach Jason Kidd told to be "more aggressive" after he put up a career high 18 points last week. Let's not forget, Jabari Parker is due for a 35 point game and I think tonight is the night. After Larry Sanders knocks Serge Ibaka out with a bottle of Ciroc, I think this one will be over for the Thunder. 

CHA @ POR (-7.5)

I have been all aboard the "bet on Portland to win/cover at home" train for a while now and it is paying off. The Blazers feed off of their hipster, microbrew sipping, passive-agressive fans and have a very deep, talented roster. With two legit stars and a supporting cast that can hang with some starting fives in the league, the Blazers have been criminally underrated for a while now. Tonight they take on the Hornets, which is the team that has Kemba and Lance (Right....? Let me check.....Yep). The Hornets just dropped a terrible one to the Lakers on Sunday and I don't think they're ready for this West Coast swing. Nic Batum should have a very steady game tonight to compensate for the 35-19 Al Jefferson will be putting up. Keep riding the Blaze train!

SAS @ GS (-7.5) 

How easy is it to say, "The Spurs are getting SEVEN points?!!! Sign em up! Cash it!" tonight? Very, very easy. So easy, in fact, that I absolutely refuse to do it. I love the Spurs and was super pumped that they won the title last year, but they are not into full season swing right now. As a lot of people have done before, I compare them to the New England Patriots. They take a few weeks to figure things out, people start freaking out and BAM, they flip the switch and dominate the regular season. They aren't there yet and Pop is damn sure not going to send his guys out there to ball out in an early November game on a back-to-back. Some guys will be sitting, or there will be very limited minutes. The Warriors have been awesome this year and I expect them to kill it tonight.

Catz:

ORL (+10.5) vs. Toronto

This was a last second flip-flop that my editor is probably going to get pretty upset about. I just had to admit to both myself and to the loyal readers of Dirty Picks that I am not sold on the Raptors quite yet. I think they have totally over-achieved thus far and are due to come back towards the pack eventually. Well, eventually starts tonight. The Magic are not a good team, I repeat, the Magic are not even a decent team. They are probably one of the worst three teams in the league, playing on the road. This pick makes no sense, that's why you have to roll it!! Sit on the edge of your seat as Aaron Gordon jacks up awkward looking jumpers from the elbow, clanging enough bricks to build a house three little piggies could live in! This is a ballsy pick that if you are smart you may want to throw in a teaser with the Memphis game to ensure a cover.

LAL vs. MEM (-10)

GRINDHOUSE!!! This is my crush team of the season so far, even surpassing my hometown PHX Suns. I love the way they muck up the paint and force teams to do things that they are not comfortable doing. If they can get even a decent amount of scoring from their role players, they are going to be more than okay. This Lakers team on the other side? They suck. They got lucky last night playing against a terrible road team and were barely able to squeeze a win out of that. Tonight? Not so lucky, this one is going to be a defensive clinic as the Grizz force the Lakers into shooting an astonishing 25% from the floor!!

SAC (+6.5) vs. Dallas

The Kings so far this season have not fucked me. That's huge. I am going to keep riding them until they fuck me, much like the strategy I had with the Cavs until they busted that wide open last night. But, the Kings have done enough to retain my trust for now, and I will keep riding them until they screw me.

Sugar's Super Sweet Hockey Lockz

Minnesota (-125) @ New Jersey

New Jersey is having problems finishing games right now.  They have held leads in both of their last 2 games and lost.  My fellow writer BJ AKA Mr. Nutz would like you to believe that 'Sota is the real deal this year.  While I'm hesitant to acknowledge that, largely because they compete in the West, I do think they are superior to almost every Eastern Conference team.  Minnesota on the road.

Colorado @ NY Islanders (-140)

I never bought into the little fling of the islanders being some elite level team.  This isn't the MLB; teams don't go from garbage to elite over a summer.  Except Colorado last year which was all a big misunderstanding. (See current NHL standings). I think the Isles are solid at home though. Watch for Tavares to snip one bar south.

Pittsburgh @ NY Rangers 

OVER 5.5 (EVEN)

This games got OVER graffiti'd all over it.  The Cros show vs Rick Nash and Company? Please. It's free money.  Watch for Malkin to bury, Crosby to have probably 3 assists and a goal while Rick Nash scores 2 or 3 or 4.

Columbus @ Washington (-200)

Honestly I feel bad for the Jackets.  They're suffering from an injury problem that I really haven't seen before in the NHL. Oh wait just kidding yes I have, last year. The Detroit Red Wings went through the same if not worse injury problems and still made playoffs.  Figure it the fuck out Columbus. Stop sucking.  Most likely they won't read the DP blog before their game tonight (their mistake), won't get that message and will still play like a junior team tonight.  Caps roll at home in a much needed confidence booster.

Winnipeg @ Montreal 

UNDER 5 (EVEN)

I don't really know what this Jets' team is all about. They started off horrible then randomly went off a 6 game win streak and took down some of the best teams in the league.  The common theme with their games though is they hold the other team to 1 or 0 goals.  With Montreal struggling to puck the biscuit in the basket I think the under is solid here.

San Jose (-155) @ Florida

Do I really need to sell you on this pick?

Edmonton @ Nashville (-190)

Nashville is solid.  They're veteran led with a good group of young guns.  Edmonton is Edmonton. I think the Preds roll at home. Watch for Mike Fish(er) to bury one and point to his celeb wife, Carrie Underwood, in the crowd.

Dallas (-120) @ Arizona

Dallas is good. Arizona isn't. That's really all there is.

NBA Finals Game 4

Big Ole Finals Teaser

This finals has been spectacular, and although most of the world is more focused on the World Cup and what cross-fit workout they have to endure today; big ole Bobby Catz still has his claws on the NBA. This series has been way too close to stay with the traditional lines though, and in honor of that I have decided to roll out a little two pick five point teaser.

SA at MIA (-5) teased to (pick em) and over 197 teased to 192 (L) (WINNER!)

This series is absolutely going seven games, it is way too close and once you think one of the teams has gained control the other team comes out and swings the pendulum back the other direction. Well tonight we have another classic LeBron game just waiting to happen, he played pretty well last time out and faded away in the second half by doing un LeBron like things including a career high in the finals of seven turnovers! Look for LeBron to come out and show the Spurs (again) why he is the best player of the series. The real key tonight is going to be the point guard play of the Heat and how many touches Chris Boshness monster gets.Expect LeBron to turn up the HEAT (again pun definitely intended) against Kawhi Leonard and for the Heat to win this game out right by at least two or three points. 

NBA Finals

NBA Finals Game 3

SA (+4.5 teased to +8.5) at MIA (OVER 197 teased to 193)  (WINNERx2)

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. From the drama of the game 1 afterparty, to the big time game by King LeBronius game 2. What this series shows is, this league is all about LeBron James. In game one, the Spurs shot lights out in the fourth to win the game, as D Wade sucked the entire half. Yet all we heard about was LBJ cramping up! Then, game 2 rolls around and we can't stop talking about how amazing the real MVP of the league is. Well, I'm here to tell you that this series isn't over. The Spurs are loving the fact that we aren't focusing any headlines on them. They love flying under the radar and being the underdogs even though they won 60+ games AGAIN, in a strong Western Conference. Remember, this is a team that can go 9 deep; a team that is 1-1, not 0-2. They were in the last game (a GREAT LeBron game) until the final seconds and missed some free throws. Do you really want to count them out? Today, we are going with a nice, hard teaser, straight to the dome. Why? Because it's the playoffs and this shit is hard! If I can tease these teams 4 points and still get even odds, I'm doing it! So take the Spurs to cover 8.5 and two of the best offensive squads in the game to score more than 194. Enjoy the free money!

NBA Finals

2014 NBA Finals Game 1

Catz's Take: One of the most highly anticipated rematches in NBA history starts tonight with the two-time defending champion Miami Heat traveling to San Antonio for game 1 of the finals. After interviewing hundreds of casual sports fans I have decided that the public seems to be backing the Spurs, and why shouldn't they? I mean the Spurs were only 25 seconds away from winning the title last year and it's not like Miami won game 6 in OT and then game seven as well. Oh wait, they did? Which is why I am confused as to why the public is backing the Spurs. 


I mean the Heat definitely got some lucky bounces and were able to turn those into a second consecutive championship, but luck is as much a part of this game as crazy is to Lance Stephenson. Plus you have LeBron James going for not just a three peat, but for his NBA legacy. People have been riding this kid from the beginning, wondering if he would ever be as good as Jordan. Well if he wins tonight he will do something that Jordan also did (granted Jordan did it twice) and it will at least place him in the same conversation. LeBron is ultra aware of his place in history, if you don't think this series means more to him than anything else in the world than you must be Lance Stephenson. I get that the Spurs are well coached and were able to slow down LeBron last year for the first few games, but this is a different year. You have an ultra focused LeBron James and a healthy D Wade, you know what that means? Trouble for the Spurs. I won't be surprised if this one doesn't go seven games like everyone thinks. As a matter of fact I won't be shocked if the Heat win in as little as five or six games. Which is why I'm going with the Heat tonight and the Heat in this series in five games.

HEAT (+4.5) at SA (UNDER 199) (Lx2)

Catz: HEAT in five games over SA

2014 NBA Finals Preview

2014 NBA Finals Preview

San Antonio Spurs vs Miami Heat

Well we are finally here. Back at the same spot we were at last year. Things feel a little different this time around though. Last year, the Spurs marched into the Finals almost surprisingly. Even after posting the best record int he West and redefining how offense should be played in the NBA, we kind of chalked up their Finals run to a lack of Westbrook and a couple good matchups. When we finally reached game 1 of the 2013 NBA Finals, the Spurs had gained a little respect, but were meeting an opponent that had a similar story line. The Miami Heat, despite dominating the league and winning 66 (!!!) games, were seen as vulnerable. The narrative was eerily similar to that of the Spurs. Star point guard (Derek Rose) goes down and paves the way for an easy Finals march. Let's not forget, the Indiana Pacers brought an uprising to the Eastern Conference Finals last year and we all came out of that series wondering if the Heat could muster the energy to win another title. 

Through all that, the questions, the narratives and the upstart punk kid teams, we received one of the best Finals series ever. Looking back, it was really games 6 and 7 that made this series what we all remember. In fact, taking a glance back at the series as a whole, it was very similar to this year's Western Conference Finals between San Antonio and OKC. There were 4 blow out games, but 3 epic fun ones. Most people didn't believe the Spurs could bounce back from the heartbreak of that battle with Miami, but they made it back and find themselves in a favorable position. 

This year, the Spurs will have home court advantage against their nemesis from the East. I'm not sure how much that will matter, but I do know injuries will be key. Yeah, Birdman and Ray Allen have been slightly banged up, but those are the normal playoff lumps and bumps. Tony Parker is the real question here. Will his ankle injury bother him through the whole series, or even hinder him? The Sp

urs could probably manage without him at his peak for a game or two, but this very well could be a 7 game series. 

Assuming Parker is healthy, the Spurs might actually pull this off. Here is my reasoning: Greg Popovich and the Spurs have done an amazing job of adapting to teams that have beat them.  Think of the Grizzlies, who they destroyed last year. In 2011, the Grizz upset the Spurs and had us all waiting for the Fat Lady to sing. Remember that? Of Course not, because the Spurs have murdered the Grizz since then. Remember when they got knocked out by the young Thunder in 2012? Yeah, the Fat Lady still wasn't singing and all we heard last round (you may have heard it from me) was that the old fellas from Texas couldn't beat the Thunder. Well, I was wrong, along with a lot of other people. Pop found a way. This time, it is the Miami Heat and after last years near title, I expect some crazy shit to come from the SanAnt coaching staff. Enough to slow the Heat and take advantage of D Wade's shortcomings. I expect the Spurs to even this championship series 1-1 and to come back next year for a final round with the Heatles. We're in for a treat

BJ's Pick: San Antonio in 6 (11/2 odds)

Sizzlin' Saturday Picks

NBA Pick

Remember a couple days ago when I said the Spurs were "DONE" as in D-O-N-E take it out of the over before it catches on fire DONE? Yeah, well I was still right. The Spurs are DONE and no amount of reverse jinxing I do can fix that. They have no way of containing the athleticism and chaos of the Thunder 2 more games. I don't expect much from Scott Brooks, but I do expect less Kendrick Perkins tonight. More than likely Pop will pull his guys in the 3rd quarter and try to get the win at home. 

But then I remember how much I hate the Thunder. 

Things like "Kendrick Perkins usually starts" and "Kevin Durant is our best player" start creeping in my mind and I realize the Thunder don't even know who they are! Through sheer power, luck and Dark African Magic, the Thunder have somehow found themselves on the doorstep to the Finals. Knowing that this team doesn't make Russell Westbrook the first scoring option and face of the franchise is baffling to me, especially when KD is standing sadly in the corner waiting for the ball like a pre schooler who just dropped his cupcake. 

The Spurs have it all figured out (what we're supposed to think). Their lineup is like some sort of Animorph or Transformer that can change to attack whatever the defense throws at them. They have the best coach in basketball (maybe in Pro Sports), never satisfied and always looking for ways to improve. Unlike OKC, they realize when their Star (Timmy Big D Duncan) is no longer the on-court star he once was. So they leave Tim as the billboard star while running everything through Tony Parker. This organization deserves another shot at the title and I think they get it tonight when they close out the Thunder in front of their morbidly obese fan base. This series has been somewhat boring in the sense that these games are blowouts, but if theirs any team that can steady the boat on the road, it's the Spurs. 

San Antonio Spurs (+3) at OKC Thunder (OVER 206.5) (WINNERx2)

Free Thursday Picks

NHL Pick

Montreal @ New York (-185) (WINNER!)

The last game between these two was one of the most exciting games of these playoffs.  The Habs came out on top in what was a high scoring affair. Montreal now faces the daunting task of playing in The Garden in a must win situation. My pick is the Rangers. They've looked solid for most of this series and have only really been beaten one time. (The other loss was in overtime on a flakey goal.) I have no idea what happened to King Henrik last game but he was not himself. Tonight's a new night though and I'm sure the Lundqvist we all know will be back between the pipes. Rangers roll at home and head to the finals. 

NBA Picks

OKC (+5) at San Antonio (UNDER 206.5) (L) (WINNER!)

I buried the Spurs in my last article, and I'm going to do it here again. They are not built to beat the OKC Thunder, and the problem comes with the second best active NBA player being on the court. That's right, Russell Westbrook is going to make sure the Thunder win this series and head back to the finals. You can point the Spurs being rested (they were getting blown the fuck out, let's not forget that) or going back home, but that doesn't really matter to a veteran team like San Antonio. A young team, like the Thunder or the Suns can feed off a crowd's energy and use those momentum swings to win games. The Spurs are far beyond that and can perform away from home just as well as they can perform at home, look at the Portland series. This series is over and maybe it won't be tonight, but the Thunder have this one in hand. Look for Russ and his trusty sidekick KD to put this one away, tonight, shocking everyone but me. 

NBA Playoff Picks

BJ and Catz's NBA Elimination Friday Picks

The first round is finally coming to a close, and for basketball fans, it's a bittersweet feeling. The first round of these NBA playoffs has been one of the most exciting, if not the most exciting we have have ever seen. Hell, even the Bobcats had a fun series with the Heat! The collapse of the Pacers, the young Raptors vs the Old Nets, every Western Conference team being good; these are all story lines worth watching, with even more watchable games. Today has the chance to add to the drama with a couple teams on the ropes. Let's get back into some picks with a Créme Fraîche Friday:

TOR at BK (-4.5) (UNDER 192) (WINNER!, WINNER!)

This is kind of the safe/cheap bet for this series. When in doubt, take the old, experienced team and the under. This Nets teams is built specifically for the playoffs and while the Raps have talent and a catchy playoff slogan, they won't be knocking out Paul Pierce, Joey "Iceballz" Johnson and Kevin Garnett  Andray Blatche at home. Take the Nets and lets hope the fatigue of the series and Brooklyn's some times horrible offense kills any big runs this game.   

SA (-160) at DAL (OVER 197.5) (L) (WINNER!)

This one will go into OT! So there is your over, as far as the game itself, 3 points is too much, especially when Dirk and Carlisle are facing elimination at home. That's the thing, you would typically say, no way in hell are the Mavs going out like this! But the Spurs don't play by our rules, they do whatever the fuck they want! So expect Duncan to have 20-10, Parker to have 25 and Ginobli to go on a run by himself to dagger the Mavs. 

HOU at POR (-115) (OVER 213) (WINNER!) (L)

Have the Rockets figured out how to stop LaMarcus Aldridge? Possibly, but I think the fatigue from those first 4 games has really caught up with Catz's favorite Pacific Northwest Product, LMFAO. The Rockets are able to throw a combination of Asik, Jones and Howard at the über consistent big man and it is finally working. The Rockets probably win this one, but the Blazers have been doubted before and I won't be doing it this time. Take the Blazers and watch everyone else as they are shocked when the final seconds tick off a probable double OT game. 

NBA Picks

Another day, another three team winners in the NBA. All three are underdogs according to the spread, and road teams. If you really want to rake in some extra cash, throw these three in a parlay and enjoy.

DAL (+6.5) at SA (OVER 198) (WINNER!) (WINNER!)
This series has been way too close to justify opening up at -7. Each game has come down to the final two minutes, and although you know the Spurs will come out huge tonight, I expect the Mavs to roll with the punches.
BJ: Last time I made a smart ass comment about these guys always going over and how Vegas didn't know what it was doing. Well I lost that one, but this one is rolling over.

BKN (+3) at TOR (UNDER 190)  (WINNER!) (L)
This one hurts to even pick. I watched the Raptors play early in the season and they were arguably the lease cohesive team I saw all year. Then they traded Gay and become a legit force in the Eastern conference. But picking against the Nets is not a fun game for me. The Nets are like that really annoying Godzilla trailer, sure it was great early on, but at this point it's so overplayed that I cringe whenever I hear the horns signaling his arrival.
BJ: This will be a knock down, grimy, old school type of game. Glad to see Catz took the points because this one will be close. 

POR (+5) at HOU (OVER 214.5) (L) (L)
The Blazers have completely outplayed the Rockets in this series. Although most of the games have been very close, the Blazers are the better team and might very well finish this series tonight. Look for LMA to hit 34 midrange jumpers and Lillard to go on at least two 7-0 runs by himself. Blazers end the Rockets season tonight in H-town.
BJ: I shouldn't have to say anything about this. 

NBA Picks

Fuck Mondays. You know who likes Mondays? Terrorists. You aren't a terrorist right? Cause this is 'merica! Now that we have that established let's brighten up that Monday a little bit.

CATZ
MIA (-8) at CHA (UNDER 187) (WINNER!) (L)
When was the last time Miami had an extended rest period? The fact that they have a chance to sit back for a few days and watch the other eastern teams battle it out for the right to face them is huge! Couple that with the fact that the Big Ole Al "Postmaster General" Jefferson will probably sit tonight, and you have the Heat running away with this one. Look for the Heat to come out and set the tone early with swarming defense as they sweep the series and get some well deserved R & R.

BJ
ATL (+6.5) at IND (OVER 186) (WINNER!) (WINNER)
As this is a must win for the Pacers, I fully expect them to blow it. Actually, I don't want to say that because the Pacers still technically have a lot of talent. They should win this game with a great performance by Paul George. People are really down on Roy Hibbert as well, which might be a good thing for the Pacers. There's only so much the man can do when Pero Antic is standing on the three point line all day and Paul Trillsap is getting in the lane with Jeff Teague. Take ATL in case they win outright again and take the over in case IND explodes for a big win.

SA (-4) at DAL (OVER 201) (P) (L)

I don't understand why Vegas thinks these teams aren't going to be over 208+ every game. Both teams play a fast pace, average over 100 and give up 98+ per game. The Spurs have to win this game and I would like to see that happen. Vince Carter pulled some bullshit last game, but the Spurs are the last team to be worried about being down 1 game. I think Parker and Ginobli go off tonight and Monta Ellis shoots 8-27 to kill the Mavs.

NBA Playoff Picks

The Catz Presents: Bizarro Playoff Picks

Yesterday, I tried to take control of my picks and put a ton of effort in, only to be rewarded with a 1-3 night. Well you know what playoffs? Fuck you. Today I'm gonna switch things up a little bit and give great reasoning on what I truly believe and then throw my pick in the opposite direction. Apparently my intuition is dead wrong this spring, so I'm gonna go completely against it (warning:this definitely means my intuition will be right today!).

IND at ATL (+2.5) (OVER 188) (L) (L)
My thoughts here were two-fold. One, there's no way that ATL takes two in a row in this game against a team that was 33-7 at one point right?? Pacers looked good in game 2, so why wouldn't they come out and turn it on in game 4? Second thought, well neither of these teams are offensive juggernauts (especially the Pacers) so it's absolutely stay under 188!! Take the Hawks (+2.5) and the over and watch the Pacers win by 50 in a 100-50 blowout.

SA at DAL (+3) (UNDER 200) (L)(WINNER!)
First off why is this series only on game 3? It feels like these times haven't played in three weeks, which is great for both teams because they are old as fuck. Now as far as the picks are concerned, San Antonio absolutely wins this game right? I mean it's the Spurs, no way does a decent Mavs team go up 2-1 on the 1-seed Spurs right?? Well they do today, and two of the best offenses in the NBA don't combine for 200 points! Do I believe this? Hell no, but we gotta hit a few knuckle-curves against the ace that is Vegas (a little baseball lingo for all the non-athletes out there).

MIA (-4.5) at CHA (OVER 187.5) (WINNER!) (L)
I've been on this Bobcats team all season like a frat boy on a drunken 18 year old freshmen at her first kegger. I really think they come out and give it their all at least one time this playoffs and steal one from the Heat before they lose the next two. Also these teams are known for their swarming defense and it definitely ends up 86-84 or something like that. So good luck with these two picks, they are terrible.


OKC at MEM (+3) (OVER 188.5) (P) (L)
This one might the worst pick I've made so far. There is absolutely no way the Grizzlies win 3 in a row against the MVP and his 2-seed Thunder team right? Even if they do manage to score the upset this game doesn't go into the high 90's right? Right??? Fuck me this is gonna be a rough day.

NBA Playoff Picks

NBA Rebound Picks 

CHAR at Miami (-10) (OVER 187.5) (L) (WINNER!)

The Heat are going to make sure they win this one at home and let's not forget, Al Jefferson is battling a foot injury that is going to slow him down a bit. Look for LeBron to get his teammates going early to boost their confidence as Miami blows the Cats out, unfortunately, 106-88.

DAL (+8) at SA (OVER 200.5) (WINNER!)(WINNER!)

After Catz and I talked about this one, we think that Duncan's slight knee injury may slow down the Spurs machine just enough for the Mavs to hang around. Let's not forget, the Mavs hung around all game in the opener and Dirk and Carlisle aren't going to be blown out in a playoff game. High scoring, fun and close game today.

POR (+7) at HOU  (OVER 214.5) (WINNER!) (WINNER!)

Again, Catz and I talked through this one and we felt that, with exception to the Spurs, no Western Conference teams are 7 points apart. Portland is underrated and the Rockets really struggle with LaMarcus Aldridge down low. If Dwight is unhealthy, the Blazers are going to take this thing to 7. Look for a high scoring game with the Rockets winning late. 

NBA Picks

Picks from Catz's Cove

SA (+1.5) at DAL (WINNER!)
My initial reaction when looking at this spread was to go against the Spurs because the Mavs are in desperation mode and will be at their best for the rest of the season. Then I decided do I really want to go against a powerhouse Spurs team that has already won 3 games against the Mavs? Absolutely not. Take the Spurs and take the points, watch Pop win by twenty.

DEN (+12) at GS (WINNER!)
This game has the potential on paper to go terribly wrong. Golden State is great at home and playing well as of late. However the Nuggets have been solid as shit against the spread lately and I feel pretty good taking them to at least cover this game.

Free NBA Picks

Thursday Tongue Tease

It's a TNT Thursday double header featuring four of the top teams in the Western Conference. Because of that we have decided to stay away from the spreads because these games are all toss ups and instead go with the surest thing we can find going over the lines! For tonight's teaser we will be using a five point tease which will all but a guarantee a two bet victory and tons of happy followers. (L)

SA at OKC over 208 teased to 203 (L)
I shouldn't have to do any explaining here. Both of these teams are offensive powerhouses and actually the original line of 208 seems a little low. I mean, yeah it's a big game and usually in these situations the teams tend to slow the pace and concentrate on individual possessions more, but do you really want to take under 201 when KD and Westbrook are on the floor looking to send a message? I didn't think so. Look for this one to be a high scoring affair as the Thunder snap the 18 game winning streak and show that whoever comes out of the west will have to get through OKC.

DAL at LAC over 211.5 teased to 206.5 (WINNER!)
The Clippers are coming off a tough fight against the Suns and return home to find a rested Dallas team at their doorstep. Dallas as I've said multiple times has to treat every game like it is a do or die matchup because the race for the 8th spot is incredibly tight. This one is not going to feature a lot of defense and the score should definitely end up in 115-113 shot fest.

Monday NBA Winners

Monday NBA Bobnanza!!!

The NCAA tournament is on hold until Thursday and after losing a heartbreaking teaser last night because the Cavs decided to become the 2002 Red Wings in the second half of the Knicks game, we bring out an over/under Bobnanza for all you degenerates out there!!

CHI at IND over 179!! (L)
These teams are not known for their points, really what I am banking on here is a close game between two teams sthat are very familiar with each other. It might even end up tied at the end of the fourth quarter, which would mean overtime! Worst case scenario this ends up tied after 4 at 68-68 and still ends up under after OT. Hopefully we get a little Paul George scoring barrage and a solid start to the Bobnanza!

SA at PHI over 211 (L)
The Spurs are one of the best offensive teams in the game and the Sixers like to push the motherfuckin tempo like they were a DJ at a techno rave! Look for buckets on top of buckets mixed in with some buckets, as the Spurs win this one hopefully at a 115-102 clip.

POR at MIA over 208 (L)
This one could be bad because of the words of wisdom from fellow writer Sugar, "I'm a bitch". Well you know who isn't a bitch? Lebron James, and LeKing will beat the fuck out of you when he is mad. Fortunately for Portland, D Wade will be sitting out this game meaning they should be able to score some points against the Heat. Look for a track meet to break out in this basketball game as both teams put up points and play very little defense.


Suns at Hawks over 213 (L)
The Suns coming off a huge weekend need another game to stay close to the Grizzlies in the race for the playoffs. Both of these teams can put up points in a hurry and neither of them are known as defensive stoppers. Expect a lot of three point stink bombs and possibly a forty five point explosion from Gerald "dunk nasty" Green. Securing another over for the Bobnanza.

Alright four overs for the NBA Monday Bobnanza, hopefully we get a lot of buckets and very little defense tonight!

BJ's BIG WINNER BONUS (BBW BONUS!)

Houston at Charlotte (OVER 205.5) (L)

I wanted to roll with the cats here, but since Bobby Catz decided to go all o/u then I should too! The Catz are an ok defensive team, and a very basic offensive squad. No worries, the Rockets hate playing defense. I expect the Rocks to score at least 107 and for there to be a lot of free throws. High scoring games all day! 

Friday Freak Picks

BJ's Hardcore Friday Picks
Ol' Bobby Catz gave me the day off yesterday for some reason, so while I reveled in the NCAA bracket ruining everyones lives, I also thought about my recent up and down NBA trend. I pride myself on being a pretty knowledgable NBA fan and I was trying to ride that knowledge to a solid w/l record. That shit did not work! So I am going back to looking at the numbers that matter, combining it with things like "Boogie Cousins almost stabbed his teammate last night," and winning at a nice 65% clip. Thanks for hangin in there while we figured our shit out!

New York at Philly (OVER 209.5) (L)
That is a big number for one mediocre team and the worst team in the league. Let's dig a little deeper. The Sixers, though terrible, play at the fastest pace in the NBA; nearly 103 possessions per 48 minutes. The Knicks play at the third slowest pace in the league, so those two stats nearly cancel out.  What it comes down to is defensive efficiency. Philly is the fifth worst in the league in that regard and the Knicks are right in front of them with the sixth worst. What we're looking at tomorrow is a game in which the Sixers get up and down the court, against a bad defense and probably get more possessions than usual. The Knicks on the other hand, are somewhat efficient on offense and they will  be getting more looks than usual this game. Expect 'Melo and the boys to cruise to at least 109 this game, if not more. Philly Might actually keep this close going up against an equally terrible defense. I predict a 115-103 finish.

San Antonio (-8) at Sacramento (WINNER!)
The Spurs have been flat out dominant as of late. Sacramento has been having a terrible month shooting the ball, and that is not going to get any better tonight as they try to go toe-to-toe with the Spurs. I would throw some numbers out, but you can just go to the NBA stats page and see that San Antonio dominates the shit out of Sacrament in every category.

Bob's Out from Under the Weather Picks

DET at PHX (-8.5) (L)
This matchup on paper should favor the Pistons. They are tall, athletic, and way more talented. However this game ain't played on paper as we have all learned early on in the NCAA tournament as well (Mercer!!). The Suns need this game if they want to stay in the playoff race and the number of remaining games is quickly dwindling. Look for a focused Suns team to come out gunning at home en route to a thirty to forty point blowout.

CHI (+6) at IND (L)
This is a possible second round preview of next months eastern conference playoffs. One thing is for sure, the Bulls are not afraid of the Pacers. Also for a team that struggles to score, the last team you want to go against is the Bulls. Although I expect the Pacers to win this series in a best of seven, don't be surprised if the Bulls take this one tonight behind a monster Joakim Noah game.

Wednesday Tag Team NBA Picks

BJ's Hot n Nasty NBA Picks

Utah @ Memphis (-11.5) (L)
The Jazz have really struggled against the spread when facing good teams as of late. Houston, San Antonio and Dallas all covered against the Jazz and I see no difference tonight in Grizz Town. Memphis has won 5 of their last 6 games and is in playoff mode here in the home stretch. The young Jazz will struggle with the defensive minded Grizz in a probable beat down.

Minnesota (+5) @ Dallas (WINNER!)
This is just a case of way too many people pouring money on the Mavs. Dallas has the better team, but Kevin Love will keep this one close. The Spain v Spain point guard battle should be fun as well, and let's not forget JJ Barrea's burning desire to destroy Dallas. The Wolves can keep up with high scoring teams, that's why I'm going with the upset tonight. Wolves win by 3.

San Antonio (-13.5) @ Los Angeles Lakers (WINNER!)
How much analysis could you need to pick this? The Lakers are not good. Their defense is honestly so bad that they should be fined. The Spurs' offense is going to Tony Parker the shit out of LA tonight and that's that.

Bob's Under the Weather Extravaganza 

Magic at Suns (UNDER 210) (WINNER!)
The Suns are not known for their defense, luckily for them the Magic are one of the worst scoring teams in the league especially on the road. Look for the Suns to come out shooting the lights out in the first half and put this one to bed early. The Suns might finish with 110, but the Magic will be lucky if they crack 90 securing an easy under win.

MIA at BOS (UNDER 198.5) (WINNER!)
The Heat are playing on the second night of a back to back and Lebron had a huge game last night. That means he is going to be deferring a lot tonight and racking up dimes all day. Look for the Heat to tighten up on the defensive end as this game ends in a 90-88 type finish.

SA at LAL (UNDER 221) (L)
This is probably the surest pick of the night. The Spurs are not the type of team that allows lesser teams to hang around or get the best of them. Look for them come out of the gates very hot to start and then they will clamp down defensively in the second half leading to a lopsided 101-78 victory.

Wendesday NBA Picks

The Return of Bobby Catz!

You know what they say when it comes to gambling, you never quit in a hot streak. Well giving advice when it comes to sports spreads is the same idea. After nailing two bets that didn't make any rational sense last night (HOU at OKC under 217, MIL +14.5) we have another one tonight.

SAC at PHI (+9.5) (L)
If you are the Sixers right now, the thought of finishing out the season without winning another game has to be terrifying. Looking at the schedule from here on out, tonight's home game against the Kings might be their last hope. The Kings are carried by Boogie Cousins and as you know one man can't carry a successful franchise (I'm looking at you fellow writers of DirtiestPicks). Will the Sixers be able to score enough points to score the upset against the Kings? Probably not, but they should be able to keep this one close enough to cover the spread and earn a respectable five point loss.

BK at MIA (-9) (L)
You know when you are walking along at the park and all of a sudden you hear a buzzing sound in your ear and instinctually swat at it? Then all of a sudden it's like a swarm of death is upon you because you just pissed off a wasp? Well tonight Lebron James is that wasp; but instead of a tiny flying insect you have a 6'8 260 lbs grown man that can run like a gazelle and dunk on your face. Lebron hates the Nets, especially KG and Pierce and they have already got the best of him twice this season. Look for a very motivated Lebron to come out gunning tonight and for him to own this game from the tip until the final buzzer. Do not be surprised if   this game ends in a 25 point blowout Heat win.

DAL (-4.5) at UTAH (WINNER!)
Dallas had a rough no show against the Warriors last night, putting their race for the west playoffs in serious jeopardy. Lucky for them the Jazz are not the Warriors. Look for a very motivated Dallas team to come out firing on all cylinders as Dirk Nasty goes for 37 points on an incredibly efficient 12-15 shots.

There we are 3 picks that are solid locks. Even if I go 0-3 that will still be better than fellow writer Sugar's worst night in hockey gambling history last night (0-4).

BJ's Hipster Douche Pick of the Day

POR (+8) @ SA (L)
This is a tough spot for the Hipsters. They're in the midst of a tough road swing and just got beat up by Z-Bo and the fellas lat night in Memphis. The public loves the Spurs tonight, and for good reason. San Antonio. IS. ROLLIN. They are on a 7 game win streak and destroyed Chicago for 3 quarters last night. With both teams coming off grueling, physical games, expect this one to end up close in the end. Let's not forget, the Blazers play the Spurs close, or win, when these teams meet. The Blazers have covered 3 of their last 4 meetings and won twice. The two losses were by 1 and 2 points. Enjoy this one! It could be a playoff preview.