NBA Tuesday Bangers!

MEM (-3) @ LAL
The Grizz might be completely decimated by injury right now, but they still have enough firepower to beat a D League Lakers team coached by the second worst coach in the league. The Grizz have beaten the Lake Show 9 times in a row and though today might be close as Kobe is probably sitting out (FG% automatically up 3%), the Grizz have done a great job pushing towards the playoffs with new acquisition Lance Stephenson.

CHA @ BK (+6)
This is one that is really outside of my comfort zone. Charlotte is one of the few teams I trust to get the cover consistently this year and tonight they should EASILY, EEEAASSSILLLY cover against a Nets franchise that has fucked up so badly that they can't even tank! Brook Lopez is still expected to play tonight and Charlotte just used all their energy to beat the Spurs in an incredible comeback. So let's roll with the Hornet's let down game theory and take Brooklyn.

MIA (-9) @ NO
Classic overreaction to Anthony Davis being hurt, but I don't care. The Pels WITH Anthony Davis were terrible this year. The Heat are healthy right now somehow, but the Pels seem to be missing half their roster again. Take the Heat, the Pels have thrown in the towel.

Monday Pre Tourney Picks

Dal @ Cha -6.5

Before we start banging out Vegas for billionz during the tourney, we might as well nail some NBA tail right?! The Hornets have really come together post all star break and look like a team that might make a second round push in the east. Dallas on the other hand has been god awful and even Rick Carlisle's masterful coaching can't save them from average talent and an aging superstar. 

Det +1.5 @ Was

Every time I look at the Pistons games they're covering the damn spread! Well tonight is no different! Andre Drummond is going to murder the 'zards bigs and SVG will keep Detroit playing well through the start of the playoffs. 

Cle -4.5 @ Uta

This one is rough because I hate LeBron and the cavs. But it's hard to ignore the fact that they've been great through this "are the cavs imploding stretch" whilst the Jazz don't look good enough to make the 8 seed in either conference. I guess that's what happens when you play Shelvin Mack too much! 

NBA Top 3 Locks Wednesday

PHI +7.5 vs ORL

Have you seen the Sixers play lately?? Ever since they traded for Ish Smith they actually have a competent NBA team on a nightly basis! It's insane what a few veteran players will do for a squad isn't it?? Love this line for two reasons; the Magic don't blow anyone out and the Sixers are 4-8 since trading for Ish!! Taking these points all day, and wouldn't be surprised if Philly pulls the upset.

OKC -9.5 vs CHA

The Hornets were able to turn things around on MLK after a two week long nose dive, but that only happened in double OT and Kemba had to drop 52!! Tonight they get to see what a real basketball team looks like in the Thunder. Rus and KD continue to be two of 5 best players in the league and the rest of their shitty role players haven't looked nearly as shitty of late. Thunder win this one in a rout.

CHI +7 vs GSW

Hopefully the Bulls are able to show that an eastern conference contender can actually execute down the stretch, sorry Bron. Dubs had everything and then some go right against Cleveland, look for them to take a step back and lose a close one tonight in Chi town.

NBA E. Coli free picks!

WOOO!! Took a nice day off yesterday and let Nutz handle the picks so I could find my mojo. Good news, I found it!! Lets roll some picks!!

BKN -7 vs. PHI

Philly brought in Colangelo to turn this franchise around and what do they do?? Go out and get BLOWED out by 51 points by the Spurs, who were resting most of their star players!!! Unbelievable. I'm assuming Jerry had to have himself a nice tall glass of whiskey followed by two ambien after witnessing that performance. Now usually when a team gets mauled like that, I would say something like, these guys are pros they will rebound next game. But, we are talking about a team that has maybe four pros, maybe...Brooklyn on the other hand has really only had success against Houston (2-0), but a visit from the Sixers is always a nice way to spend a Thursday night.

LAC -1.5 vs. CHI

A tale of two franchises with complete opposite seasons so far. Chicago started out hot and have recently gone ice cold especially in the fourth quarter as Jimmy Butler is their only reliable scoring option. The Clippers started slow and really went downhill after blowing a game against the Warriors, but of late seemed to have a rhythm and are back to doing things that we expect from Lob City. A big key to their success has been a healthy JJ Reddick who really helps spread the floor for their big men to operate in the paint.

ATL +7.5 vs. OKC

People are really sleeping on what a terrific season Kevin Durant is having shooting the basketball, mostly because Steph Curry is having the best season of all time across the country. With that being said this is a terrible match up for the Thunder, because the Hawks have the guards to match up and slow down the duo of Westbrook/Durant. Last time they played, Jeff Teague took over down the stretch and propelled Atlanta to 106-100 victory, and don't be surprised if we see a repeat effort in this one.

NYK vs. SAC -6

This is me completely selling off all my Knicks stock and burning all of my gear. After teasing me earlier this season by looking like a competent team, the Knicks have lost 7 of 9 and most haven't been competitive. My guess is they need a coaching change as it is very clear Fisher isn't ready to be a professional coach, and Phil Jackson needs to go back to his farm in Montana and smoke peyote. I genuinely don't like laying this many points to a team as bipolar as the Kings, but it will have to do

NBA Warriors Streak

CHA +9 vs GSW

Big Al is out tonight for the Hornets, which means the Warriors will roll to an easy victory and extend their streak right? Actually, playing without their slow, old center should serve as a benefit to Charlotte as they will be able to go small and match what the Warriors do best aka the Run N Gun. I'm tempted to go all out here and pick Charlotte straight up to end the streak, but I think the Dubs ultimately pull this one out in the fourth.

NOP +3.5 vs HOU

Tyreke Evans returned last night and went off for the Pelicans!! He scored 20 points, dropped ten dimes and had 5 rebounds!! This is exactly what the Pelicans needed to get back in the Western Conference playoff race. In other news the Rockets still suck, end of story.

TOR +3.0 vs ATL

Two middle of the pack Eastern Conference teams that's essentially a toss up game. Here at DP, whenever we feel like a game could go either way, it's almost always a good bet to grab the points. So let's hope Lowry and Derozan can do just enough against the Hawks backcourt to steal this game in Hotlanta.

MIL +11.5 vs SAS

This just in, the Spurs despite being the second best team in the West (record-wise) are having trouble putting points on the board. They are averaging under 100 points on the season after finishing last season at 103 ppg! While this hasn't stopped the San Antonio Express train from rolling, it has stopped them from blowing a lot of teams out. Meanwhile the Bucks have put on a defensive clinic lately and might have turned the corner after an early roller coaster of wins and losses. Spurs should win this one with little to no trouble, but I expect a sloppy 92-85 type slugfest.

NBA Pod & Picks

The Spread is up for this week! Rob and Brandon break down the early NBA storylines. How good are the Warriors? What's wrong with Houston? Way too early playoff predictions, hot takes and more this week on The Spread!




MIL +3 vs WAS

Word on the street is Bradley Beal will probably miss tonight's game as he is still nursing an injured shoulder. Either way grabbing the points here with Waukee is a good call. Bucks are coming off a hard fought win against the Cavaliers and should be able to translate those positive vibes into a win against the Wizards in chocolate city.

DEN +6 vs NOP
I made the mistake of betting the over the other night when the Nuggets played the Suns, and then watched Jameer Nelson jack up terrible three after terrible three en route to a thirty point blowout loss. You know what helps a team get their confidence back? Playing the always injured lineup that the Pelicans like to trot out. Sure Anthony Davis is playing really well like he was supposed to do, but he is not getting any help, at all...zero. Take the points here.


TOR +10 vs GSW
Upset pick of the day!!! If you listen to the podcast you already know this is my upset special of the day (if you don't, click the link below and treat yourself to some aural pleasure). The Warriors should have lost to the Nets a few nights ago and tonight definitely has the feel of a letdown game for the Dubs. If the Raptors can get just enough defensively out of Kyle Lowry and Demarre Carroll they should have enough to do the unthinkable and beat the Warriors on their home floor no less!!

NBA FRIDAY!

LAL +3.5 vs BKN

The only team not worth watching this season  is the Nets. They might have the bleakest outlook of any team long term...and the short term isn't much brighter. I fully expect Lopez and Johnson to be traded at some point in the season, because this team isn't close to contention even in the East. The Lakers on the other hand are stacked with a few promising young guns and one cranky old superstar that just needs to hang it up already. They are at leas fun to watch, and that is basically the only reason I'm grabbing the points here.

DET +4.5 vs PHX

A game that I will be sitting second row at in less than 6 hours!! So excited to watch the monster that is Andre Drummond unleashed on the suspect Suns front line. The Suns could very easily win this game, but I expect it to be close enough that 4.5 should be an easy cover.

DEN +17.5 vs GSW

Just too many damn points!!! Sure it's the Warriors against a team that desperately wants to be the Warriors but doesn't have the talent..but still. Too many damn points.

NBA Gun Show!

Last night: 3-0

TOR +8.5 vs OKC

What an awesome night!! If you know me, you know I love getting points in NBA games. Last night I went 3-0 betting on a bunch of garbage teams that all ended up not only covering but outright winning. Tonight I get the opportunity to actually get points on three teams that are good!! Yes, I included the Knicks, come off it. But back to the Raptors for a second. This team is solid. Toronto has been the same team now for 4 or 5 seasons. They play good quality team ball, everyone knows their role and they win basketball games. This year they overpaid for Demarreeeeeeee Carroll aka the Junkyard Dawg, but he's definitely helped their overall team defense. Sure Hustle Westbrook and KD are stupid ridiculous basketball players, but they can have an off night once in a while right??

Nutz Notez: I like the matchups in this game. Lowry and Demarre should slow the insanity of Westbrook and Durant down just enough to let the supporting talent win this one. 

NYK +10.5 vs CLE

This might be the last time I bet on the Knicks this season. I took them getting 9 the other night against the Spurs just to watch the Spurs harass the hell out of Carmelo Anthony and the Knicks into a double digit loss. Tonight against the Cavs I expect a different outcome though. Melo loves to go up against LeBron and has always tried to go 110% against the King even back in their high school days. Throw in that JR Smiff is out for the Cavs and I think the Knicks have just enough to at least get the cover in this one.

Nutz Notez: I guess I'll never understand how the Cavs continue to win with such a terrible, injured supporting cast. The Knicks aren't much better but you can always bet on Melo to bring it against Bron. Oh and Porzingis is good enough to play 20 mpg so that's a start. 

LAC +7.5 vs GS
By far my favorite line of the season so far. It opened at 9 last night and I will gladly still take it at 7.5 today. I love this Clippers team. They are crazy deep, Lance Stephenson and Josh Smith are two former starters playing extremely well of the bench and you know what you're getting from the big three of Paul, Jordan and Griffin. Sure the Warriors are great and will most likely represent the West come Finals time, but they aren't going 82-0. Look for the Clippers to shock the world and win this game outright.

Nutz Notez: How long can the Warriors keep this up? Dirty Picks' former NHL writer B Sugz McNasty almost had a heart attack at the thought of getting against Stephy Curry! At some point these guys won't cover and tonight they have a worth adversary. The Clips can match depth and star power so this one should be close. 

NBA Finals Game 4

GSW vs. CLE (+3)

The Cavs are up 2-1 in this series, but if you watch SportsCenter or listen to ESPN radio you would probably think the Warriors are up 3-0!! LeBron is literally having an all time great series, not just for an NBA player, but for any athlete in the history of organized sports. The dude is absolutely obliterating the Dubs, and has taken 2 of 3 games to prove it. Sure these games have been closer than they probably should of in the end and the Warriors are absolutely terrifying anytime they take the court mostly due to the shooting prowess of the Splash bros. BUT THE CAVS ARE UP 2-1!! Give them some credit here. LeBron is playing out of his gourd, his supporting cast is playing excellent d and Delly is playing way above his pay grade. Yet the Warriors are still giving three points?? No way. This is one of those prove it lines, until I see some leadership and an all around performance from the Warriors, I have to keep rolling the Cavaliers. Oh by the way, its at home....Cavs win by 20.

NBA Finals Preview

Catz:

Cleveland in 5

   All this week, I'm sure all you have heard is about how Steph Curry is the greatest shooter that has ever graced the earth, and the people in Nor Cal probably already have their championship t-shirts printed up right? It's a done deal to most! But not for Bobby Catz. People are really underestimating what LeBron James is doing/has done over the last five years. He's made 5 straight finals. Detractors simply point out that he is doing it in the East, but in reality what the fuck does that mean?? I don't care if he made five straight finals in the Chinese basketball league, its still impressive no matter which way you look at it. You know why? Because its basically impossible to beat this dude in a best of five series. Sure you might get a game, you may even get a series lead, but unless your name is Greg Popovich and you have a fantastic San Antonio team, you aren't beating him in the finals either. And don't even try to come at me with the Mavericks winning in 2012. They were extremely well coached as well and James had not quite yet learned what it took to be considered a champion. The problem for the Warriors? This Cleveland team knows exactly what they need to do in order to win and they do it very, very well. 

   I honestly do not think this series is going to be that close. Curry and Thompson are fantastic shooters possibly two of the best of all time, but they don't know what it takes to win on the biggest stage quite yet. Every great player has to go through a loss in the finals before they breakthrough. This series reminds me a lot of the one a few years ago between OKC and Miami, also featuring the King. Everyone liked the hot shooting Thunder in that one and what happened? Harden no-showed, Durant and Westbrook struggled and after losing game one, Miami rallied to win four straight. That is exactly what I think happens in this series. The first game will be the hot shooting Warriors getting a win after they go 20-22 from three or something crazy and then the next four games will be a showcase for the cerebral assassin LeBron as he averages a triple double and gets his third championship ring to add to his collection.

Mr. Nutz

Golden State in 6

Over the past week we have seen an influx of Cleveland supporters pile their opinions on the "who will win" dumpster fire for the Finals. Well I'm here to tell you this is the real world, not some fantasy land where all our dreams come true and the underdog always has a chance. The Warriors were not just the best team in basketball this year, they were absolutely dominant. That dominance comes from an offense that can not be slowed or stopped, no matter what different matchups you try to exploit. Much like the Spurs teams of the last 3 years, the Warriors have an exceptionally strong bench to back up one of the best starting 5's in the NBA. Hell, I don't even know who technically "starts" as the minute distribution for this team lends itself to about 7 different guys being starters. But when you can rotate guys like Andre Iguodola, Harrison Barnes, Draymond Green, David Lee and Shaun Livingston in and out of your lineup, you're not skipping a  beat! 

All this bench fire power only hurts the Warriors' opponent, the lowly Cleveland Cavaliers. People are trying to hype up LeBron James as some sort of basketball alien that was plopped down during the playoffs to win the whole thing by himself. Well, he's not. He's been to 5 straight finals right? Well he hasn't won them all, that's for damn sure. Oh and this time, he's relying on JR Smith, Iman Shumpert and Timofey Mozgov to get him to the promised land? No fucking thank you. I will take a broken D Wade and a garb salad surprise Heat roster over the reject Knicks any day. LeBron is exhausted. Not only from carrying this team through the EC playoffs, but from playing non stop Finals games. He's going up against the best D in the league, while chasing around someone from the best ball movement offense in the league. Good luck LeBron, this is just another loss in your finals column.  

NBA WCF

HOU  vs. GSW (-10)

This is probably the highest amount of points I've ever taken on a favorite in the long, storied history of Dirty Picks. Ironically this is also the least high I've ever been while taking such a risk. Though the idea of the Rockets being inspired by the recent tragedy that has affected the Houston area, I don't expect that inspiration to be sustainable. They could very well start this game off hot like they did in game 1 only for Steph Curry to catch fire and absolutely bury Houston. I heard a crazy stat on ESPN somewhere that Steph Curry has had almost half of his shots in this series come on uncontested looks!! Uncontested!!! Possibly the best shooter ever is getting wide open looks, that's never a good thing. Golden State wins and prepares to protect their castle against an invading King James.

NBA Draft & Conference Finals

NBA Draft Lottery

NYK +325; LAL +575

Either way here you're good. The NBA fixes the draft lottery and all of you sheep who don't believe in conspiracies better GTFO right now. What happened last year? Cavs won, LeBron went home, you mean to tell me that wasn't rigged? Buy that and I got a trunk full of original DaVinci sculptures that I'd like ya to take a look at . Seriously though anyone that thinks the NBA is going to go through another season where the two biggest markets are bottom five in talent desperately needs a wake up call. I know this ain't horse racin, but if I could I would even bet the Knicks get one, the Lakers get two and odds on favorite Minnesota gets the three hole. So good luck to both Karl Anthony Towns and Jahlil Okafor because after tonight you're going to either get yelled at by Kobe for a year or play in dinosaur offense with Phil Jackson and NY. Meanwhile the Wolves get Mudiay and roll out the best backcourt in the NBA in five years.

NBA Conference Finals 

Houston Rockets (+10) at Golden State Warriors

This could be a terrible, terrible series. The Rockets took advantage of one of the worst coaching jobs of all time and beat the Clippers to reach the conference finals. As Oklahoma City fans and Kevin Durant continue to pretend they don't miss James Harden, the Rocks are going to be looking for any slight advantage they can find as they get destroyed by the Warriors. Steph Curry has to be ROCK HARD knowing Jason Terry and James Harden are going to try to guard him all series, oh and Pablo Prigioni. Those poor dudes have no chance. Nevertheless, the Rockets might be able to keep this one close. Harden will need to cause some foul issues for the Rockets, but if the Warriors' bench plays half as well as they are capable of, Houston is fucked. 

Catz: New series....Same old Catz. After closely examining these two teams, I've come to the conclusion that should be a relatively easily win for the Dubs in four or five games tops. So why the hell would I back the losing team? Because the Rockets have been hearing all week that no one is giving them a shot against the Warriors. Look for a spirited Harden effort to fall just short as the Splash bros make their way towards their first NBA finals appearance.

Game 4, Game Winners!

ATL  vs. WAS (+4.5)

"I CALLED GAME!!!"' With three words Paul Pierce immortalized himself on the Mount Rushmore of sports quotes after his buzzer beating "game shot" Saturday night. And I'm supposed to think that the Hawks are just going to waltz in to a fired up Wizard's chambers (still taking suggestions on that one) and swing the momentum and the series back to the dirty dirty?? I don't think so, as a matter of fact I'm even gonna go out on a limb with my own postgame proclamation, "I CALL SERIES". Wizards win and go up 3-1.

MEM (+5) vs. GSW

Yet another series where the team up 2-1 can't even get a little respect?? Has Vegas even watched any of these games?? Z-Bo and Gasol are owning the number one ranked D from the regular season, and Tony Allen is irritating the splash brothers like a mean blister on their taints. I really think Memphis has a shot to win this series, but tonight I predict they lose on a last second three by Curry, keeping with the recent buzzer beater trend.

Solo NBA Picks

MR. NUTZ

GS (+3.5) @ CLE 
Last I checked, the Western Conference was the most dominant force in basketball; LAST I CHECKED, the Golden State Warriors are 44-10 and leading said conference. So can someone please explain why they are getting the points?! It doesn't make sense and I can happily give the points tonight knowing I have Steph and Klay to rely on. People are getting a little too pumped on the Cavs lately, especially their D! If anyone knows D, it's the fellas here at Dirty Picks. Hell, we put the D in Dirty!!!....picks... Anyways, the Warriors' ball movement is not some run of the mill Eastern Conference bullshit. The Dubs use superior spacing and elite shooting to get great looks. The Cavs might be better on defense post-trade deadline, but they ain't no 2003 Pistons. Look for a lot of threes and a Warriors win tonight.

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 Playoff Picks

BJ's Pretentious Playoff Picks: NBA Style 

Well Catz was bas last night. He admitted it, and I am filling in once again. I'm just going to let you know right now, these playoffs are really weird and entirely unpredictable. That's not going to stop me from giving you a Sunday Surprise Creampie of winners to warm you back up to us here at DP. 

LAC (-2) at GSW (OVER 209.5) (L) (WINNER)
We've seen so many high scoring over time games this year that I am just automatically rolling the over at this point. The Clips are really pissed off at this point. They play for a member of the KKK and have had to fight off a squirrely ass Warriors team that won't go away. The one thing that is separating these teams is Blake Griffin. Blake Superior has been able to dominate these games and I think he will dominate this game in particular so that the Clips can close this series in LA in front of a home town cross burning. 

TOR at BK (-4) (UNDER 193) (L) (WINNER!)
You just can't count the old guys out! Did you guys know Paul Pierce can dunk?! The man has turned back the clock and the fact that his game (mid-range step backs, flat threes and a dash of low post flavor) ages very well has led to a Big PP resurgence! KG sucks, but he's still annoying as shit to play against and is liable to yell and scream to get everyone pumped, so there's that. In all honesty I want the Raptors to win this series, but watching Pierce, ISO Joe and a reinvented Deron Williams is kind of fun! This one plays to the Nets strengths as KG turns in his one good defensive performance of the year and holds the Raps to 33% shooting in the paint.  

HOU at POR (-2.5) (OVER 214) (WINNER!) (WINNER!)
These teams refuse to play defense. It's insane how little they care about an entire facet of the game! On one side you have the Rockets trying to funnel everything to Howard/Asik which doesn't work when guys are shooting threes or taking 15-20 footers. On the other side, the Blazers have "defensive talent" in Matthews and Batum, but honestly those guys aren't that great on D. This makes the over a no-brainer. As for the game, the Blazers let me completely down last game in front of their home crowd. This is why Seattle needs a team. You think Seattle fans are letting Princess Dwight's fragile mental and emotional stability win a game? Hell no! But these dumb ass hipsters in Portland, riding their bikes to the fuckin game with their passive aggressive chants and their "we don't want to be a big city" attitude didn't do shit! Which I guess is my fault or expecting those assholes to do ANYTHING at all, besides sit around and talk about horrible bands and how being vegan is totally not really a religion (except you Portland Vegan Assholes are like Jehova's Witnesses when it comes to spreading the word on retarded diets). GOD I HATE PORTLAND. Anyways, look for the Blazers to bounce back or get bounced out of the playoffs. That's right. If they lose tonight. It's OVER.

NBA Playoffs

NBA Wednesday Picks

After a long day of soul searching aka taking mushrooms and wandering around Joshua Tree for a day. Bobby Catz is back to give the people what they want. Some high quality NBA playoff picks

IND (-2) at ATL (OVER 186.5) (L) (L)

Atlanta played really well through six quarters of this series. Then in the second half of game 2, they got absolutely shit housed by the Pacers. While its still too early to anoint the Pacers as being back, Monday was the closest they have looked since January. Paul George will build on the momentum he was able to establish in game 2 and come out of the gates hot, putting this team on his back and carrying them to a game 3 victory. Don't think that won't make this game competitive and push the total under though. The Hawks can shoot the rock, and I expect a lot of points on both sides.

LAC (-2) at GSW (OVER 213.5) (P) (L)

The Clippers rebounded in a huge way to even this series at a game a piece. The biggest reason for that was the play of Blake Griffin, who was able to play more than 19 minutes this game. Look for this trend to continue as the Dubs have absolutely no answer for Griffin. However, unlike the last game I do expect this game to stay competitive throughout, pushing the combined total into the 215-230 range.

OKC at Memphis (+2.5) (OVER 189.5) (WINNER!) (WINNER!)

BJ: Consider my horn "tooted" after last nights gloryhole of a day! 5-1 in the NBA has been more rare around these parts than getting an in depth hockey analysis! First off, let me tell you that Catz had the reigns today and I pulled them away just to steal this pick. He really wanted to roll with the Thunder tonight and who can blame him? The Grizz looked throughly outmatched in game 1, and pulled one out of their bear asses 2 nights ago. But this is the grindhouse! The Thunder have to go in a play mistake free, physical basketball and everyone in the world is looking at that Thunder (-2) and saying, "2 points?!! That's it!" You're damn right, because this one is coming down to the wire, 10 seconds left on the clock, Grizz have a 96-95 lead, Westbrook gets the inbounds, screen from Ibaka, Durant crosses baseline and HE'S WIDE OPEN, WESTBROOK TAKES THE CONTESTED MID RANGE JUMPER THE GRIZZLIES WIN!!! 

NBA Playoff Picks: Round 1

NBA Playoffs Round 1

Toronto (-2.5) at Brooklyn (L)
Catz and I have had a real affinity for the Raps this year. I used to be a big DeRozan hater because he couldn't shoot and he played the "Shooting Guard" position. The dick swingin wing man out of Compton has put together a nice career and should shine in these playoffs. On the other hand, Catz and I have been absolutely destroyed by the Nets this year. I think we were 1-19 in games where the Nets were involved. I'm not a big numbers guy, but I don't think that's a good percentage. Either way I think the Raptors have a good home game here and are guided by Kyle Lowry being a bad ass. Wait for Keven Garnett to talk shit to Jonas Valenciunas this game and for JV to punch him in the fuckin face. Raps win, KG loses and Melo's wife still tastes like cereal.

Golden St. at LA Clippers (-7) (L)

Nobody wants to play Steph Curry right now and with Klay Thompson joining him in the back court, the potential for an upset is definitely there. Well it ain't going to happen. Chris Paul is the best point guard on the planet and he needs to get out of this round clean to keep that title. Let's not forget he now has Blake Griffin, who is playing at a very high level, to lean on. No Bogut, too much Jermaine O'Neal and a whole lot of Jamal Crawford!

Atlanta Hawks (+7.5) at Indiana Pacers (WINNER!)
Consulting with Bobby Catz, we decided the best course of action here was to bet against the Pacers. Though I expect them to win this game, I rarely see them cover anything over 5 points. We have to go with the Hawks here and I think they scrap themselves within 6 to cover this one. Actually, I full expect the Hawks to win this one. It will be like 81-77.

Memphis at OKC (-7.5) (WINNER!)
I was really disappointed that the Mavs didn't play OKC. Memphis isn't the kind of team that seems like they can handle Westbrook. I mean, nobody is stopping KD, but when you let Westbrook's crazy ass go off?! That's trouble. I expect a great game from Marc Gasol, but fucking Tayshaun Prince starts for the Grizz.

Wet and Wild Wednesday Picks!

Bob's Free NBA Picks

We got a nice little set of NBA games coming at us today. Also I don't want to start any controversy, but we may be looking for a new hockey writer here at Dirty Picks as we fear our current one may be lost at sea. If you are interested hit up the editor at @dirtiestpicks on twitter and maybe you will be lucky enough to write for us! Now on to the picks! We are feeling pretty good today about the picks and I've had a few too many cups of coffee this morning so three team teaser!!! (5 points, +150) (L)

GS at SA over 201.5 teased to over 196.5 (WINNER!)
This should be a very good basketball game and a possible preview of a playoff matchup. The Spurs are on an absolute tear right now and haven't lost in what seems like six months. Look for Golden State to come in ultra focused and put up a bunch of buckets in the first half. Then a huge second half run by the Spurs as this one ends up in 114-112 shootout possibly even featuring an extra period or two.

NO (+3.5) teased to (+8.5) at DEN (L)
I hate the Nuggets. If you read this blog with any consistency you know that I can't stand this Nuggets team and think their chemistry is one of the worst I've seen in recent years. Plus one of my favorite NBA players of all time has been out for most of the season, Javale McGee, and he was the only silver lining for watching the Nugs. Watch Anthony Davis continue his run towards NBA superstardom as he dominates a weak Denver front line and propels the Pelicans to a victory in the mile high city. 

CHI (-2) teased to (+3) at ATL (WINNER!)
You know I love this Bulls team. Watching them play defense is an absolute treat on a night to night basis and coach Thibs is a ridiculous strategist that any player would be lucky to play for. In addition Joakim Noah is the perfect fit for Thibs system and he seriously couldn't have carved a more perfect player out of stone. Look for the Bulls to shut the Hawks down and dominate this game en route to the biggest blowout of the NBA season.

There we are a little three team teaser, and remember all three picks have to hit in order to win the big bucks!

NBA Picks

Tuesdays Tenacious Tsunami Throwdown

Today's games were harder to pick than the struggle of acting like you are interested in engaging in casual coworker office conversation. Nevertheless sometimes you just have to grip it and rip it.

DAL at GS (-5) (WINNER!)
Steph Curry has been hobbled with a quad injury as of late, but the Warriors continue to roll anyway. Tonight they welcome in the Dallas Mavs who feature the second most dangerous man in German history. Betting against Dirk always makes me pee my pants a little bit, but the Warriors have been playing too well of late to ignore this cover. Look for the Warriors to shoot the lights and out and defend the shit out of the two headed Dirk/Monta Ellis combo, leading to an easy 15 point win.

MIL (+14.5) at MIN (WINNER!)
This game is like one of those jumpers that JR smith shoots after he scores a couple of buckets. Right when it leaves his hand you go "what the fuck" only for him to drain it and you act like you knew it was going in the whole time. The Bucks are not what you would call a good basketball team, but the Wolves aren't exactly the 2002 Red Wings either (Sugar shout out!!!). Look for this game to be tightly contested throughout with the Wolves making little runs, but never being completely able to blow the Bucks out. Wolves win by 7-10 and the Bucks get the cover.

HOU at OKC (UNDER 217) (WINNER!)
My record with picking over/ unders correctly isn't exactly what you would call "great"; but if you think that's gonna stop me from picking this game, then you don't know the Bobcat. Every once in a while you have to take some risks, like when you see that the expiration date on your milk was three days ago, but you say fuck it and drink that shit.Tonight's game is going to have a playoff like atmosphere to it. Usually in the playoffs teams focus extra hard on the defensive end and it leads to some pretty close low scoring games. That is exactly what is gonna happen tonight. Look for the Thunder to control this game from the tip and for the combined score to land somewhere in low 200's.

BJ's Fat Over/Unders

POR at MEM (UNDER 196.5) (L)
These teams usually play pretty close to this line and have recently finished right above it. Memphis is coming in well rested, and nobody in the NBA is better at making teams play their style than the Grizz. Marc Gasol & co. will try to make it hard on LaMarcus Alrdidge down low, while Mike Conley and Tony Allen will wear down Damian Lillard. It's going to take solid ball movement to beat the Grizz and on the other end, prepare for long, slow possessions. This one is risky, but this will be a playoff style slugfest. Look for 93-91 as the final.

BOS at IND (OVER 192.5) (L)
Another risky one! The Pacers are in a slump and need to snap out of it, fast. The Celtics meanwhile are still coasting along, allowing just about anybody to put up 100+ points on them. Rondo should help their offense flow a little better, but against an hostile, desperate Pacer team, don't expect too much. This should be Indian 103-Boston 91, so take the over and let's see if the Pacers can round into playoff form.