NBA Favs Night

SAC vs MIA -9.5

You probably won't be able to bet on this because the suspension of Boogie Cousins was announced a few hours ago, but if you can find a site that will take your action, throw it big on the Heat. Sacramento would beat very few teams in this league without their all star center, let alone the best defensive team in the league that features an all star center of  their own. Look for Whiteside to have himself another block party and for the Kings to fall back to earth after a nice little run post the players only meeting.

MIL vs CLE -10.5

LeBron is in pure F U mode to his own team!! He hates playing with Kevin Love and called his entire team out following an OT loss to these same Bucks a few nights ago. Honestly though there was nothing these Cavs needed more than getting a wake up call from their leader. I expect them to come out and treat this game like it was the Eastern Conference Finals game 6. Love goes for a double double and LeBron does his usual MVP things as the Cleveland faithful are finally able to R-E-L-A-X.

GS -7.5 vs LAC

I know...taking all favorites goes everything in my life that I stand for. It makes me a little sick to my stomach to even type it up, but it's our best shot at continuing the hot streak from last night (3-0). CP is out again for the Clips and they just aren't the same team without their all star guard. I wish I could be ballsy and predict the winning streak of the Dubs to end again (Toronto almost had them!!!) but it won't. Warriors win this one big.

The Spread - Podcast

Our podcast is finally here! Check out the intro pod which features some Over/Under picks from Catz and we discuss some end of the NFL season awards. Thanks for listening!

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.  

Playoffs Round 2, game 2

CHI vs. CLE (-6)

Initially there was no way I was gonna take the Cavs after their less than impressive showing Monday night where they lost by seven. Then I started reading some articles this morning and I realized that both Kyrie and LeBron are going to be angrier than a KKK member at an equal opportunity convention! These dudes are gonna go off. Look for Kyrie to drop 35 and LeBron to have a classic 15, 15, and 15 LeBron line; Cavs win this one big as D Rose struggles to keep his glass knees glued together on a short rest.

LAC  vs. HOU (-7.5)

So if I'm giving points in one game, what do you think the chances are that I would be stupid enough to do it twice? As it turns out, pretty damn stupid. I just can't talk myself into a team that is probably going to start Austin "Freakin" Rivers at the point!! Sure they won last game, but there is no way James Harden and crew lose two at home to start the series. Look for a convincing Rockets win.

NBA bounce back picks

WAS vs ATL (-6) I liken this pick to sticking your finger back in an electrical socket after it shocks the fuck out of you. You know the old saying "get burned once, shame on me, dust yourself off and get back on the horse!"...or something like that. Anyway, the Wiz don't need this game and will be more than happy to take a 1-1 spilt back to chocolate city. Hopefully the triples fall and ATL is able to even up the series. MEM (+10) vs GSW Well the last time they played the line was 10.5 which the Warriors ended up covering...so that extra .5 is the different maker right?? Game changer!! Hopefully the Grizz muck it up, feed the post and are able to keep this game close enough to cover.

NBA Playoffs: Thursday

Chi -3.5 vs MIL Alright that was a cute last couple of games there Waukee, but your 2015 off season officially begins after tonight. Look for the Bulls to take care of bidness in game 6 and fight off the over achieving Bucks. LAC +5.5 I'm making this pick on the hope that it somehow influences how the clippers play and they are able to keep this series going. Way too many great games for this one not to end in a game seven win for the Spurs. Clips take this one back to LA for the greatest event in sports!! We're going to game seven!!!! Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

NBA Playoff Wednesday

Brooklyn (+8.5) vs. Atlanta

Originally I saw this line and I thought, no-brainer right? Then Nutz got in my ear bringing up all this noise about how this line smelled like a Vegas strip club. Then all of a sudden I started second guessing myself! Was Vegas being coy here? Are they hoping people jump on the points? Or are they going the other way and paying respect to a team that only lost 15 games during the regular season?? I guess this is why casinos continue to stay in bidness...I know where I stand though, team getting points against the series favorites who haven't looked the part the entire series. Milsap is hurt, Thabo's absence is more detrimental than anticipated and Jeff Teague is trying to shed that Kyle Lowry label of "I swear I'm actually good and I didn't have just one good half of a season." 

Portland (+6) at Memphis

Catz is so pissed that I'm rolling PDX here, but hey, some times you gotta take risks in the workplace. Portland has had a miserable series. Damian Lillard has struggled, LaMarcus Aldridge's mind might be on his next free agent stop and Wes Matthews is not suiting up any time soon. Portland has a very good team, let's not water down what they have done this year. Hell, if they had been slightly healthy they could be a 2 or 3 seed right now. Out of respect we are taking the 6 points, not only because that's the official DP NBA strategy, but because you don't give good teams 6 points. Lillard should be able to make an impact again tonight as Mike Conley sits, and I think LaMarcus is a true pro who won't give up on his team.  People hammered Memphis early so I think it has shifted far enough over that we're in Blazers cover territory.

2015 NFL Draft

NFL INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

2015 NFL Draft

Instead of rolling out the typical generic mock drafts that become so popular this time of year, DP decided to go in a different direction with our prognostication. Imagine you had 100k to invest in the six elite prospects of this years NFL draft. How would you allocate it in order to maximize your return on investment? Would you go heavy in a risky stock hoping that they pay off would be worth the risk? Or would you spread it out evenly with risk/safe, hoping to make a decent amount, not necessarily an early retirement nest egg? Lets find out.

The B. Catz Retirement Fund

$25K- Jameis Winston
We get it started with a pretty decent amount of risk. This investment could be akin to taking a stack of money and lighting it on fire if he gets arrested halfway during his rookie season which is what most are expecting it seems. On the other hand, this dude could be the next face of the NFL and his off the field issues could be remembered and laughed about the same way we laugh that Brett Favre was an alcoholic for the first five years of his career (HAHAHA, alcoholism!). I am definitely on the side of people are way too concerned with his off the field issues, and don't pay enough attention to the way he carried Florida State for the better part of two years, especially in second half and crunch time. Famous Jameis is going to live up to the moniker and this return alone could set me up for the foreseeable future. 

$25K- Leonard Williams
Safest player in the draft right?? How could you possibly go wrong with an investment like this?? Easy, dudes bust in the draft all the time!! Every year someone gets tabbed as the "safest pick", and then ends up out of the league three years later, or even worse does just enough to stay on a team, but never lives up to the initial hype. Remember Glenn Dorsey? HE WAS A MONSTER IN COLLEGE!! Used to eat up double teams like it was a fresh packed bowl at a Cypress Hill concert! What happened to him? He's a solid NFL D-lineman. Definitely never lived up to his top five billing, but he can play in the league. The NFL is a tough league to succeed in, and even though scouts are doing better with each advance in technology, it is by no means a flawless system. So I am going to invest in the "safe pick" but I am not going to bet my entire retirement on it. 

$50K- Kevin White
Here it is Ladies and Gentlemen!!! The pick out of the top six "elite prospects" that I believe has the highest potential return on investment. I'll be completely honest, two months ago I had no idea who Kevin White was. All I knew was that a few mock drafts had him going to my New York Jets squad with the sixth overall pick. Then I started to get the cold sweats when I heard some of the knocks being tossed around about him. Combine wonder, late bloomer, tons of potential. Not exactly the type of words that inspire you to invest half your bank roll on right?? Then I watched his tape. DUDE IS A MONSTER! Absolute nightmare matchup who reminded me of a mix of Terrell Owens and Larry Fitzgerald! He's tall, fast, and catches the ball with his hands away from his body!! A more recent comparison could be made that he's the next Alshon Jeffrey who 31 out of 32 teams would absolutely love to have (the one who wouldn't is Jacksonville because they have no idea what the fuck they are doing). I think this guy is a pro bowl WR from the moment he steps on the field. He might not put up the numbers that others could because most likely the team that gets him will be struggling at QB, but much like Sammy Watkins in Buffalo, you will still notice that he's on the field. To me this is the safest pick in the draft, and definitely the one who offers the highest potential ROI. Can't wait till the Jets pair him with Brandon Marshall, pick up Bryce Petty in the third round and throw their way to a top five offense for the 2016 season!!

Mr. Nutz's "All your nutz in 3 baskets" Mutual Fund

$30K - Leonard Williams

I can definitely hitch my wagon to the Leanord Williams wagon train! The man was beastly during college and at this point analysts are just looking for ways to shit on him. He's going to cause a lot of problems on the interior line with his explosiveness, and a lot of people are going to be suprised at his pass rush game. I'm not saying he's going to be JJ Watt, but h's definitely going to be one of the few defensive lineman that can play any down situation and have a presence. As long as he stays healthy, he will have a long run in the NFL, and I'll be a rich man. 

$20K - Todd Gurley

This is a tough call because Gurley is coming off a major injury. In this case, you would have to assume that you are paying half the amount as say Leonard Williams or Kevin White; so if Gurley does hit, your making a ton of money. One of my finest gambling moments came last year in Vegas for the opening weekend of college football. Gurley single handedly won me a c-note and from then on I was a huge fan. He reminds me a ton of Marshawn Lynch, but a little shiftier. Gurley could come in and make a big impact immediately and I think he will be the best first round RB taken since Adrian Peterson. 

$50K - Amari Cooper

This is my Ace in the Asshole. Cooper is a bad ass wide receiver and that's what I'm hanging my hat on. He proved it on the big stage with Bama throughout his career, often going up against some of the nastiest defenses in the nation. He may not be as flashy as Kevin White, but when you throw the ball to him, he's going to catch the fucker. His ability to track the deep ball and fearlessness going over the middle will make him a star in this league. Even if he gets stuck with a shitty QB to start, he'll always have potential to live on.  

Round 1 NBA

ATL vs. BKN (+4.5)

This pick is more of a "what I want to see" rather than a likely to happen cover. Atlanta has not looked like the team that rolled through the regular season a few months ago, whereas Brooklyn actually did things that made sense these last few games. Well, everything except playing Deron Williams more than 5mpg. If Brooklyn somehow ties this series up at two, I will definitely be that guy in the office telling everyone within earshot that I called that shit like two weeks ago.

MIL (+8.5) vs. CHI

This could be classified as "Nutz and Catz: Super Fish Line of the Week", but hold on a few more lines we will get to the real stink shortly. Milwaukee is such a fun team to watch play, mostly because the Greek Freak doesn't comply with the rules of gravity/nature that apply to nearly all other mortals. With all that being said, this line could definitely be dangerous. You know Chicago is going to come out super motivated after last games buzzer beater loss, and the Bucks swagger could lead to a ton of jacked up threes...but I still like the 8.5 here. These games have been far too close not to take this many points at home.

MEM vs. POR (-3)

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: NUTZ AND CATZ SUPER STINKY FISH LINE OF THE DAY!! This line has such a pungent, sour smell that I might wrap it up in a grape swisher and smoke it! Seriously though folks, why is Rip City favored by three? What does Vegas know that the rest of us aren't privy to? One thing I've learned is always do the opposite of what Vegas is hoping, as the saying goes "Overpriced, tacky hotels don't get built on the back of good teams getting points!". I'm sure that's a saying, but either way Portland is definitely winning this game, probably in blowout fashion.

NBA Round One Winners

Brooklyn Nets (+9) at Atlanta Hawks

I think you all know our position on the Nets around here. They are the most boring story in the NBA, no one on their team is good and their owner literally does not care about the franchise. Tonight I am prepared to roll the Nets and nine points because of the mounting injury issues with the Hawks. Al Horford has a dislocated pinky, Thabo Sefolosha was shot by racist police and Paul Millsap's shoulder is super fucked up. This spells disaster for the feel-good story Hawks as Joe Johnson and D-Will come through with their only good game of the series before getting stomped out for the rest of the series.

Portland Trail Blazers at Memphis Grizzlies (-6)

Sadly the Blazers have completely fallen off the map. The injury to Wes Matthews and mounting, nagging injuries to the rest of the squad has seen the Blazers lose 7 of their last 10. These aren't just regular ass losses, no, no, they are beat downs. 14 point loss to the Grizzlies, 6 point loss to Dallas, 11 point loss to OKC, 10 point loss to Brooklyn and so on. We typically don't roll the faves here, but fuck it.

San Antonio Spurs (+2) at Los Angeles Clippers
Well this is it for the Spurs. They aren't a major story line, they are the so called "favorites" in this series and haven't really had a memorable moment all year. My concern with the Spurs is that they are so injured! Parker can't get to the rim, Splitter isn't playing and Danny Green looks like a guy that should be playing for CSK Moscow! The Spurs are the defending champs, so let's roll with them.

NBA Playoffs Round 1

MIL (+8) vs. CHI

The Bucks coming in to this series were being thrown around as a possible dark horse to pull of the upset mostly because The Greek Freak is so much damn fun to watch. Then they tipped off and D Rose turned in a performance that absolutely has to torture Bulls fans, not because he was so great, but because they know eventually he is going to get hurt again. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news Bulls fans, but that angst starts tonight as the Bucks turn in a solid performance and keep this one close enough to lose by five in the end.

NO (+12.5) @ GS

This line looks super high (420 joke!) and it is! Vegas jacked this bad boy up because they know people want to take the points, but then will talk themselves into GS winning by 25 because, hey, Steph Curry! The problem is, the 'cans have enough talent to keep this thing close in garbage time, just as we saw on Saturday. Anthony Davis found a weakness or two in the Warriors' defense and I think he will continue to dominate tonight as New Orleans keeps this one close, thanks to some monster garbage time performances. 

Dirty Picks: Playoff Edition

Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans

Catz: Not sure why all of the talking heads think  that the Pelicans can steal one or even two of these games. I get "the brow" is a ridiculous NBA player, but look at the guards that Nawlins trots out there....marquee names that strike fear into an opponent like Tyreke, Norris Cole, or Eric Gordon. There's a good chance NOP doesn't even get a lead in this series let alone a win.

Nutz: I'm not going to be a dick like Catz and insult a team that just made it to the Western Conference playoffs with a young squad. But I am going to predict an absolute ass whoopin, the likes of hasn't been seen since Stone Cold Steve Austin wore the strap! The Dubs have incredible ball movement, a smart coach and an amazing backcourt. I also have a slight grudge against the 'Cans as they cost me a seafood buffet dinner by hitting the over this season. 

Consensus: Warriors in 4.

Houston Rockets vs Dallas Mavericks

Catz: We went back and forth on this in the DP office, originally I was interested in picking HOU in 6 until Nutz brought up a few solid points and Sugar shocked the office with his Surgalski scoop that Dirk is going to shoot jumpers this series!! That's the kind of dynamite reporting we have around these parts. Because of all that info I was forced to reconsider my pick and I did....Rockets in 6.

Nutz:  Shit are we at IHOP?! CAUSE WE'VE BEEN WAFFLIN ON THIS PICK ALL DAY!!!!!!! Nothin? Ok, well I'm going Rockets here as well. The Rocks have dominated this matchup all year, mostly due to their perimeter domination. The Mavs, touting a guard lineup of Monta Ellis and The Man We Used To Call Rajon Rondo, won't have any success trying to guard James Harden and whoever else is out there. I was a little worried because Dirk lives for the playoffs and Rondo always saves his best performances for the the post season. Not to mention Rick Carlisle....shit....whatever, ROLL IT! Rockets in 6!

Consensus: Rockets in 6

Los Angeles Clippers vs. San Antonio Spurs

Catz: CATZ'S SUPER UPSET OF THE FIRST ROUND!! Not really an upset if you are one of those traditional seeding kind of guys, but we all know who is the favorite in this series. This is the Clippers championship right here, and they are going to put every ounce of effort in to winning this series. They might even lose the next series after this depending on who they play, but Blake, CP3 and DeAndre will score the upset against the defending champs!! Clippers in 7!!!

Nutz: I am going to give this one to the Spurs based on two things: I HATE the Clippers! Blake Griffin has become so whiny and bitchy that it's hard to watch him at this point. Pair that with super tough, bad ass supreme Matt Barnes (terrible basketball player) and you have a very unlikeable team. Second reason: They're the Spurs. You have to trust Pop, Duncan, Parker and to an extent, Manu. Just trust em. 

Catz: Clips in 7. Nutz: Spurs in 7.

Portland Trail Blazers vs Memphis Grizzlies

Catz: Terrible matchup here for the Blazers. Maybe they would have a chance at winning a game or two if they were fully healthy, but they aren't so break out the brooms. Grindhouse is going to take care of business and the Blazers in relatively quick fashion. GRIZZ IN 4.

Nutz: This sucks! The Blazers busted their asses all season to get a top 3 seed, only for Aldridge to get hurt for an extended period of time and to lose Wes Matthews for the year. This team has done well to patch things up over the last few weeks, but they clearly miss Matthews. The Grizz are too much of a defensive juggernaut to survive a full series against the grind house. 

Catz: Memphis in 4. Nutz: Grizz in 6

Atlanta Hawks vs Brooklyn Nets

Catz: This could honestly be the most one sided playoff series in recent history. The Hawks could literally start their second string and still end up sweeping this series. I hate the Nets. Garbage team owned by a guy who doesn't give a fuck (not you Hov EDITOR'S NOTE: "Hov" is no longer part of ownership. Catz apparently does not know this) and a couple of "stars" who didn't even care enough to respond when a former teammate basically called them pussies in the media. You think Lebron would respond if someone questioned his professionalism? Yeah that's not a great look D-Will, have fun in Shanghai next year. Hawks in 2.5...minutes that it takes to realize how lopsided this one is.

Nutz:  The Nets will probably somehow win a game in this series, but we all know they aren't going anywhere. Deron Williams is just terrible and Joe Johnson should be playing for the Pelicans right now. I seriously hate this franchise. They're boring as fuck, their unis suck and their arena and fans suck. If they didn't have Lionel Hollins there would be no reason for them to exist as a franchise. 

Consensus: Hawks in 4

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics

Catz: This is the worst possible matchup for the Celtics. They can't defend anyone from driving to the rim and the Cavs have two of the three best players at doing just that. Really the only positive that could come out of this series is if Brad Stevens is able to have a secret lunch with Kevin Love where he can pitch him wearing green next season. Enjoy the Lebron hates Boston show everybody. 

Cleveland in 4. 

Nutz: Am I the only one that thinks it's weird that Boston is in the playoffs?! I feel completely unprepared for this series! I have no clue who plays on this team (that's not true) but I definitely know that the Celtics will not win a game in this series. Brad Stevens is a good coach, but LeBron doesn't fuck around in the first round and Kevin Love needs to prove his worth for whatever team he hops to this summer! 

Consensus: Cavs in 4.

Toronto Raptors vs Washington Wizards

Catz: If this series featured the two teams that we watched back in December, my enthusiasm for these games would be much greater. Unfortunately for both Rapes and Wizards fans, these are not those teams. Injuries have basically destroyed the season for both teams, but it seems like the Raptors are taking the injury plague exceptionally hard. Meanwhile the Wizards have a very talented team that would be light years better if they had even a semi-competent coach at the helm. With all of that being said, I like the Raptors to win this series purely because their coach sucks a little bit less than the Wizards coach. Wiz in a sloppy 6.

Nutz: I have no idea how this one is going to go! These teams are the exact same! This is just "Default Eastern Conference Playoff series." I am going to roll with the Raptors! They have home court advantage, and a hellacious one at that. The Raps are a solid enough team to win this series in 6. 

Catz: Wiz in 6. Nutz: Raps in 6.

Milwaukee Bucks vs Chicago Bulls

Catz: When I first checked out this series I wanted to make the case for Milwaukee because of their depth, coaching and GIANNIS!!! Then I really buckled down and thought to myself "the fucks going on here, I can't bet on Milwaukee to beat Chicago!!" That pretty much settled it for me. Milwaukee is a good story and should be a fun team to watch over the next couple of years, but this is a veteran-laden, well coached, tough Chicago team. J Kidd is about to get a rough teaching lesson from Thibs because it's Thibs and that's what he does. Chicago in 5. 

Nutz: Much like Catz I wanted to roll the Bucks because it's fun! But Thibs doesn't care for fun. He only cares about running his players into the damn ground until they can't go anymore! That's the formula for a dominant first round and a second round sweep ladies and gentleman!

Consensus: Chicago in 5

Catz's NBA Locks

MEM (+3) vs. LAC

When I was looking at the picks for yesterday, I really wanted to grab the Grizz on the road in Rip City getting 3 points and I did not...what happened? They won. Lesson learned Grizz, lesson learned. The Grizz are for real this year, anytime you can get points with them, take it.

Mr. Nutz's snarky commentary: I agree with this pick, but the line smells fishier than....well, I just think it's weird. Memphis should be a favorite coming out of the West. The Clips aren't that great and can't depend on Austin "Sub-Zero" rivers to drop career highs every night.

MIN (+9) vs. HOU

Wolves have played a lot better since they got some actual NBA players back in their lineup. Wiggins has developed really nicely and is starting to look like the franchise cornerstone that everyone was jacked about during last season. 9 is way too many points, especially because the Rockets played last night and are probably exhausted.

Mr. Nutz's snarky commentary:  Ricky Rubbbeeezzzz! Rubio has had shitty luck this year with the ankle injury, but he has legitimately improved as an NBA player. He still can't shoot, but apparently that's all he worked on while he was injured, so we shall see. 

CHI (-7) vs. MIL

I wanted to take the feisty Bucks team here especially because they were getting so many points, and then I looked at their injury report!! Lets just put it this way, if you compare this list with my list of supermodels I've dated, one of them is way longer than the other (ill let you figure out which one). The Bucks are usually a good squad, but I think tonight is going to be too much with a limited roster. Bulls win big.

Mr. Nutz's snarky commentary: SMH, it's way more fun to take the Bucks...

President's Day Slobberknocker

Dirty Picks - The Pickoff

The staff here at Dirty Picks have decided to kick things up a notch starting today. How are we doing this?  With our first ever, possibly semi-annual, Pickoff.  Now, Pickoff’s come in all shapes and sizes (obviously), so let’s layout the rulez for this here contest:

1. Each participant will start with 20 DPD’z (Dirty Pick Dollaz)

2. One and ONLY one pick may be entered into the contest per day

3. The player may wager any amount of his/her choice.

4. There are no bailouts. (This isn’t the U.S. government) If you run out of DPD’z you are out.

5. A pick may be made on any game listed on Bovada that day.

6. The contest will begin on February 11, 2015 and conclude on February 18, 2015. 

7. The winner will be decided by total earnings retained upon the end of the contest period.

8. The winner will receive a prize from each losing participant valued $10.

9. The prizes will be purchased on Amazon or something.

Standings

Player          Amount Won/Lost          Bankroll

Mr. Nutz          -15.85 DPD                      4.15 DPD

Catz                -8.65 DPD                      11.35 DPD

Sugar              -14.13 DPD                      5.87 DPD

Day 6

Sugar - 3 DPD to win 4.20 DPD
Tampa (+140) @ Los Angeles
Tonight is the second game of Tampa's 6 game road trip.  They got things started off on the right foot last night with a 5-2 win over San Jose.  The Bolts are currently tied with Montreal for first in the East with 76 points.  It's safe to say that this road trip is of the utmost importance in the race for the President's Trophy and playoff home ice advantage.  I expect Stamkos to lead the way for Tampa against the Kings tonight as the Bolts advance to 2-0 on this road trip.

Mr. Nutz 4.15 DPD to win 4.15 DPD

Edmonton @ Winnipeg  (OVER 5.5)
As someone who has nothing to lose, I'm betting all my DPDs on the over between two "average at best" NHL teams. The Jets just beat the Wings 5-4 which I'm sure Sugar is super pumped about. The Oilers got fucked up, for lack of a better phrase, to the tune of 7-2. THEMS A LOT OF GOALS! Roll the over and I'm back in this thing!

DP Pickoff

Dirty Picks - The Pickoff

The staff here at Dirty Picks have decided to kick things up a notch starting today. How are we doing this?  With our first ever, possibly semi-annual, Pickoff.  Now, Pickoff’s come in all shapes and sizes (obviously), so let’s layout the rulez for this here contest:

1. Each participant will start with 20 DPD’z (Dirty Pick Dollaz)

2. One and ONLY one pick may be entered into the contest per day

3. The player may wager any amount of his/her choice.

4. There are no bailouts. (This isn’t the U.S. government) If you run out of DPD’z you are out.

5. A pick may be made on any game listed on Bovada that day.

6. The contest will begin on February 11, 2015 and conclude on February 18, 2015. 

7. The winner will be decided by total earnings retained upon the end of the contest period.

8. The winner will receive a prize from each losing participant valued $10.

9. The prizes will be purchased on Amazon or something.

Standings

Player          Amount Won/Lost          Bankroll

Mr. Nutz          -10 DPD                            10 DPD

Catz                -12 DPD                            8 DPD

Sugar              -12 DPD                            8 DPD

Day 3

Sugar - 4 DPD to win 3.20 DPD

Boston @ Vancouver 

OVER 5 (-125)

Well, I'm on the verge of desperation mode over here with my 8 DPD'z and 4 days left to make picks.  I will be lucky to make it out of the weekend at this rate.  Since my picks have been getting killed I decided to make the pick I normally would not make.  Boston @ Vancouver, 2 elite NHL goaltenders with solid defensive teams, and I'm rolling the over.  I'm siding with Charles Barkley on this one, all them "stats" and "analysis" ain't mean nothin'.

Mr. Nutz - 7 DPD to win 4.24 DPD

Florida (+1.5) at Dallas

Holy hell! Not to echo what Sugar is saying, but I have to go with a shitty, safe bet today because the last two have been disasters! Florida has been sneaky good recently with wins coming against Anaheim, LA and the Islanders. They go into Dallas who can't seem to get their shit together at home. I'm thinking the Stars win this one, but Florida keeps it within a goal to cover and keep me in this damn competition. 

Catz - 5 DPD to win 4.35 DPD

USA vs. The WORLD (U 281)

Everyone's initial thought when looking at this line is that it will go over right? Well hold on just a New York minute, look at these rosters. Sure there are some decent players on both squads including the last few rookies of the year, but these rosters aren't that spectacular. One of the biggest things I noticed when I glanced at the roster was the lack of shooters for both teams. Sure they have some athletic players and there will be no shortage of ooo's and aaaahhhh's from the lack of defense particularly by the World Squad. But I see a lot of bricks in this game from deep, and when you are only getting two's and missing a bunch of three's an average of 140 for both teams looks a lot more daunting. TAKE THE UNDER.

NBA Blast City

DET (+1.5) vs. CHA

Man I really wish people would start sleeping on this Detroit team again. I used to get 8-10 points a night!! Then they go and cut Smoove and start playing "team basketball" and all of a sudden I can't even get two points in a road game against the ZombieHornetPelicanCatz!! What is this world coming to? I remember the good ole dayz, when a Catz could get 5 on a Stan Van Gundy coached team on the road. Now? Garbage lines, straight garbage lines.

BKN (+13) vs. MEM

I wanted to take this line first thing this morning when I saw it was only 11 points. Then I took a Catz nap, woke up and saw that I was getting an additional two points!! That's like taking a girl home from the bar and waking up to find that she was 2 points hotter than you thought the night before!! That my friends, along with this line, is a solid come up.

DEN (+1.5) @ LAL

How the hell do I keep getting put in a position where I have to bet on the Nugz?! Just look at the Lakers lineup, it rivals the 76ers in pisspoorness! Jordan Hill leads all starters at 12.3 ppg and I can't see the Lakers winning another 8 games this year. So go ahead and roll the worst coach in the NBA and find something else to do tonight.

SAC (+11.5) at CHI

I'm not sure when it happened, but I know hate the Bulls. Maybe it's D Rose hobbling around like he has a peg leg, maybe it's all the love for Pau Gasol who has turned their D into something that resembles the French Air Force; I'm not sure. What I do know is, Boogie Cousins is pissed off! He hates his team, he hates his teammates, he hates his coach, already hates George Karl, and he hates Pau Gasol probably. I expect him to go absolutely nutz tonight on his way to a 25-21! 

Catz's Corporate Picks

TOR (-4) vs. IND

I am gonna go head and be the sacrificial pick lamb here. This line looks like a trap, smells like a trap, and definitely has the feel of a trap line. But even after typing that sentence I still find myself thinking its a solid bet. I have had the unfortunate pleasure of watching the Pacers play a couple of times this season, and its not pretty. They do play good defense, but they couldn't score if the ball was a 19 year old sorority pledge at her first kegger. Toronto absolutely wins this game, probably by double digits.

DET (+8.5) vs. CLE

I read an article this morning that if the Cavs are smart they are going to start sitting LeBron and restricting his minutes for the second half of the season. The Cavs know that all they have to do is make the playoffs in the East and they could easily find themselves playing for the title this summer. Don't be surprised if teams like the Pistons keep these games closer than they should be and if the Cavs even drop a few against lesser competition. Throw in the fact that the Pistons have played much better since the exodus of Josh Smith and you have a winning bet combination.

MIL (+2.5) vs. MIA

Not sold on Miami, despite the emergence of Hassan Whiteside. The Bucks length on the perimeter will be the key in this one as the Bucks defend their court and pull off the very minor upset over Miami.

NHL picks

Friday Night Ice

Pittsburgh (-110) @ NY Islanders

You know when you get an idea in your head that sounds good but on some level you know it’s a horrible idea?  That pretty much sums up this pick.  I was going to pick the Penguins plus the 1.5 but its -300 so why bother.  The winner of this game will be first in the Metropolitan Division one way or the other; 1 point separates these teams right now in standings.  Can you really pick against Crosby? Naw

NY Rangers (-140) @ Columbus

Here’s another pick that I wouldn't recommend betting your house on.  After going 13-1 over a 14 game stretch the Rangers have been shut out 3-0 in 2 consecutive games.  On the other side, Columbus has dropped 3 straight with the score in all 3 being 5-2.  The Bluejackets haven't lost 3 straight since they got all their guys back form injuries (two and a half months).  Both teams are due to go off if you ask me.  I like Rick Nash and St. Louis on NY to put up some numbers tonight and give the Blue  Shirts the win.

OVER/UNDER: OVER 5.5 (+135)

Vancouver (-115) @ Carolina

Carolina comes into tonight with a 14-24-5 record and faces a team with a record the exact opposite; Vancouver is 24-15-3.  On top of that, the Canucks have won 10 of the last 13 meetings between these two teams.  When I saw this line I assumed Vegas knew something I didn’t know.  After looking through a couple pages of news about Vancouver it’s safe to say Vegas does not know anything I don’t know and they don’t know anything about his match up in general.  Free money!!

Washington (EVEN) @ Smashville 

The funny thing is I’m more confident in this pick then my Penguins or Rangers picks.  Yes, Nashville is the best team in the NHL and Yes, the game is being played in Smashville.  There is always a chance that the Caps go in there and get stink bombed out of the building.  But, let’s talk about a guy named Pekka Rinne.  In case you are unfamiliar, he is a key component in Smashville’s ability to “smash”.  In fact, it’s accurate to say the Predators have not won a game without him this season.  Rinne, of course, is the 6’5” monstrosity that stands in between the pipes for Smashville and he sprained his knee.  How good is Pekka? I mean, let’s be realistic, how much does the best team in the NHL really rely on their goalie? See that’s the thing… Pekka Rinne leads the NHL in wins (obvi since he’ s on the winngest team) but what people aren’t talking about is this: Pekka Rinne is 2nd in the entire NHL in saves as well as 2nd in the NHL in Save Percentage.  What does this mean? It mean’s Pekka is a phenomenal fucking goaltender who has been a massive contributor to Nashville ascending to the top of the NHL.  I do not think they will be the same team without him.  Washington rolls while Nashville struggles through the next couple weeks.

Winnipeg @ Chicago -1.5 (+120)

The Hawks are sitting just outside of first in their division and in the league.  Chicago is 15-5-1 at home this year.  Hopefully tonight they just take care of bidness and win us both some money.  Winnipeg wins games when their goalie makes 50 saves in a game.  That’s all good and everything except when you have to go up against Kane, Toews, and the rest of the Blackhawks.

New Jersey @ Anaheim -1.5 (+140)

The Ducks formerly known as “Mighty” should be a good bet to cover the spread tonight.  Much better chance than Chicago in my opinion but who am I.  Getzlaf sat out practice the other day because he felt “under the weather”…..but that’s cali for you I guess.  He probably just had a mean itch to go carve up some swells… Fellow DP writer Catz knows that feeling all too well.  But Getzlaf and Perry will be good to go tonight and the Ducks formerly known as Mighty should roll.

NHL Picks

Friday Fight Night NHL 

NY Islanders @ New Jersey +1.5 (-210)

The Islanders have lost 2 straight with the most recent loss coming against Edmonton.  It doesn’t appear like New York is playing their best hockey right now.  Normally, I would say they should have no problem with the Devils but they just lost to Edmonton. I think the Islanders win tonight but I’m expecting a 1 goal game either way.

Buffalo @ Tampa -1.5 (-140)

Buffalo got stomped out by the Carolina Hurricanes last night.  They’re a bad team that’s playing terrible right now.  They might lose 15-0 tonightin Tampa to be honest.  This pick should be a lock.

Columbus (+115) @ Toronto

From October 24th to November 29th the injury stricken Bluejackets lost 15 of 17 games.  Since that horrific month of games the Bluejackets have bounced back strong.  They’ve won 12 of their last 15 games and have looked as good or better than the team everyone thought they had.  I expect them to dismantle a Toronto team with an interim coach and a divided locker room tonight.

Florida @ Calgary (-160)

Florida isn’t that great but they do have Luongo.  Calgary has a rowdy home arena and is coming off a tough loss to Detroit.  I don’t see them dropping 2 in a row at home, especially not against the Florida Panthers.

Chicago -1.5 (+140) @ Edmonton

Chicago got their potent offense going last game after a short scoring slump.  Tonight they take on Edmonton.   The Hawks and the Oilers are on complete opposite ends of the ideal franchise spectrum.  Chicago has a standard of success lead by great coaching, and even better players.  Edmonton doesn’t have standards.  They have no idea what their issues are or who to blame.  Chi town on the road with a decisive win.

Monday NBA Dogs

2014-15 Record: 8-7

Catz

KINGZ (+7) vs. NUGGETS

For the first time in a long time, the Kings actually look like a competent basketball team. Gone are the days of Isaiah Thomas dribbling around for 20 seconds before jacking up an off-balance long two and Boogie looking at him in complete disgust. They are actually being coached well, hitting shots, and most importantly playing defense!! That is why I have to take the points tonight on the road against the Nuggets. Kings most likely don't get the win here, but should do enough to cover.

JAZZ (+8.5) vs. CLIPPERS

I got burnt hard by the Jazz the other day, when I picked the Suns to cover a measly (-2) spread and they proceeded to get blown out by Hayward and the gang. Well fool me once, shame on me as they say. This time we are going to take the points in what looks like an impossible cover! Only getting 8.5 against the Clippers?? Yeah it is crazy, but it might be crazy enough to work. Also Derek Favors is playing really well so far and might be on the verge of a breakout season. Tonight will go a long to show how far he has come against the duo of Blake and DeAndre.

CELTICS (+9.5) vs. MAVERICKS

Third game of the night taking the points??? That's right, and despite this being the largest amount of points I am getting, this is the one I feel least confident in. The Celtics as many people predicted are really struggling to shoot the ball. Dallas on the other hand looks solid early on and should definitely be in the top 8 out west by the end of the season. So, why am I taking the Celtics? No reason really, I just really like Brad Stevens and think that he should come up with a gameplan to keep this one close throughout, possibly even stealing a V in big D!

BJ

THUNDER vs. NETS (-6.5)

If the Nets wind up winning this game by 25, you're going to be very pissed off at yourself for not rolling it. With no Westbrook, Durant, Lamb, or Jackson, the Thunder are starting to look at lot like a rich man's 76ers. The Nets on the other hand beat Detroit by 12 on the road and are getting their best player in Brook Lopez back tonight. I don't care how gritty the Thunder are, they shouldn't win this game or cover. 

PELICANS (+4) vs GRIZZ CITY

How fun is it to take Anthony Davis and the points?! I have a feeling the Pellies are everyone's favorite new squad to root for. Davis is awesome, we all still hope Tyreke Evans might do something and Ryan Anderson is a nice player to watch too. Don't sleep on Jrue Holiday returning to All-Star form this year as he gets in sync with the Brow and his supporting cast. The Grizz are a very good team, but the Pels have had no problem covering against Memphis (5-0 ATS last 5 meetings). Look for a lot of AD and a nice Tyreke stat line to cover this one.