NBA Black Friday Picks

ATL +3 vs MEM

The Grizzlies have rebounded from early season struggles to claim a spot in the Western conference playoffs race, but that doesn't mean we should go ahead and crown their asses. The Hawks like to run and gun which is a terrible matchup for the slow, plodding style of Memphis. Don't be surprised if this game isn't close as Atlanta knocks a bunch of threes down en route to a victory.

DET +8 vs OKC

The pick and roll combo of Reggie Jackson and Andre Drummond is basically the modern day version of Stockton and Malone!! Okay so maybe it isn't that prolific, but it's a hell of a lot of fun to watch. The problems for Detroit start with about 4 min left in the first quarter when they start bringing in the bench players. God this bench is awful, they consistently blow huge leads that Drummond and Jackson have worked hard to create. Luckily for Motown, another team heavily carried by their starters and not so much by the bench, are the Thunder. Expect the Pistons to actually get up a few points in this game, only to watch the back ups blow it in the fourth and they lose by 5.

CHI +4 vs IND

The Pacers responded for me the other night after I waxed poetically about the return of Paul George as they went 12-19 from downtown, with PG and CJ Miles each scoring 30!! Tonight I think they still get a victory against the Bulls, but they won't be able to cover the spread. These teams are very close and this is basically a toss up game, which means you have to take the points and hope.

BONUS PICK!!!!

PHX +9 vs GSW

Gaaahhhh Damn these Warriors are impressive. They are kinda like that asshole you see at the gym who is swole as fuck and rockin a t shirt that says prominently "No Dayz OFF!" Because they continue to show up night in and night out without any regard to who they are playing. The word on the street is they won't lose a game until they play the Cavs on Christmas Day, which is really dumb considering they almost lost to the Nets a week ago in OT. Someone will trip them up in the next week or so...or maybe even sooner. Is that what you think it is??  Yep!!!! It's the Catz Super Lock of the Century of the Year of the Week!!!! The Suns not only cover this spread, but they feed off the energy of the home crowd and end the Warriors 20 game win streak!!!

Thursday NHL Full Slate!

Minnesota @ Boston

Pick: Wild +105

Minnesota has lost 2 games in a row heading into tonight; a 3-2 OT loss in Dallas and a 4-3 loss in Pittsburgh.  The Wild have yet to lose 3 games in a row this season. Three times this season they have lost consecutive games.  The previous two times they responded by winning the next game.  Tonight’s game is also the final game in a 4 game road trip for Minnesota over the past 7 days.  They started off with a win in Carolina last Thursday, lost in Dallas in OT on Saturday, then headed up to Pittsburgh for a 1 goal loss to the Penguins.  After tonight’s game the Wild head home for a couple days of rest.  This is a classic scenario for Parise and his squad to buckle down and grind out a tough win to wrap up a road trip.  A win gives the Wild a 2-1-1 record on their trip; a success.

Colorado @ Pittsburgh

Pick: Penguins -1.5 (+175)

This is the kind of pick analytics won’t help you with.  Last Saturday the Penguins were embarrassed 4-0 by the New Jersey Devils on the road.  It was their 3rd loss in 4 games.  As can be expected, the Penguins were not happy.  These are the moments when teams look to their leadership.  Assistant captain, Evgeni Malkin, stepped up on Saturday night vocally and more importantly, followed through on the ice three days later on Tuesday.   On Saturday, Malkin called out the entire locker room for the poor work ethic.  On Tuesday, the Penguins defeated a very good Minnesota team 4-3; Malkin had 2 goals and 2 assists.  Whatever issues the Penguins were having have absolutely nothing to do with talent.  If the team responds to Malkin’s call to arms, Colorado doesn’t have a chance.

San Jose @ Philadelphia

Pick: Sharks -135

This pick isn’t complicated.  These have to be dark days for the Flyers’ fans.  They’re bad.  Really bad.  San Jose should win tonight without a doubt.  

Dallas @ Washington

Pick: Stars -105

The Stars are killing it this year.  They’re 15-4 overall, 6-1 in their last 7, and are on a 3 game win streak.  The Caps aren’t exactly a walk in the park but they did play in Detroit just last night.  I like a more rested Dallas team to come in and take care of business.

NY Rangers @ Tampa Bay

Pick: Rangers -130

New York is riding a 9 game win streak.  Only 3 of those games have been decided by 1 goal.  The Rangers are dismantling teams every time they take the ice right now.  Meanwhile, the Lightning have dropped 4 of their last 5 games including 2 straight losses to the Florida Panthers.

Arizona @ Montreal

Pick: Arizona +1.5 (-170)

This is a shitty line but it’s less shitty than the Habs money line (-200).  Montreal isn’t dominating teams like they were the first 10 games of the season.  Arizona has been beating teams they have no business beating.  The Coyotes could win this game but I think they will keep it close at least.  

Anaheim @ Florida

Pick: Florida -115

Six months ago if you had told me that on November 19th the Florida Panthers would be favored against the Anaheim Ducks, I would have laughed in your face.  Yet, here we are.  The ML for the Ducks and Panthers, respectively, is -115 and -105.  For the sake of hockey history I have to roll with the Panthers.  If you need more substance to trust your money on this pick, Florida is coming off 2 straight wins against Tampa Bay.

Columbus @ Ottawa

Pick: Blue Jackets +120

The Jackets’ coaching change just might have saved their season.  Since replacing Todd Richards with John Tortorella the Blue Jackets are 7-4; before that they were 0-8.  It’s not crazy to think if Torts had been at the helm since day 1, the Blue Jackets would be favored in this game.  

Buffalo @ Saint Louis

Pick: Sabres +175

Buffalo hasn’t lost 3 games in a row all year.  They head into tonight on a 2 game losing streak.  The Blues very well could stomp the Sabres out.  That actually will probably be the case.  But I’m feeling myself tonight and I’m rolling with Cap’n Jack.

Monday NHL Picks!

Anaheim @ Carolina
Pick: Hurricanes -120
I don’t know what’s going on with the Ducks this season but something definitely isn't right. Maybe it’s coaching; maybe it’s chemistry; regardless of what the issue is, all I know is that there is an issue and the issue hasn’t been fixed. Taking on the Canes on the road just feels like a game the Ducks will drop.


Arizona @ NY Islanders
Pick: Islanders -1.5 (+135)
This pick could definitely back fire but who cares. A wise man once said: “Let ‘er buck!”. I have no idea what that means but I like it. Islanders minus the points. Let ‘er buck.


Vancouver @ Montreal
Pick: Canadiens -165
I can’t bring myself to pick against the Habs at home. Especially when they’re taking on a team who’s best players are two 35 year old Swedes. A long road trip and a time change can wear these older guys out.


Detroit @ Ottawa
Pick: Red Wings +115
The Red Wings are 0-2 since Datsyuk returned to the lineup. Do you think they will go 0-3? I don’t. The Atlantic Division standings are extremely tight outside of Montreal. One point can carry a team from 5th or 6th to 2nd or 3rd and vise versa. Detroit’s experience at every position makes them the pick here.


Tampa @ Florida
Pick: Lightning -120
I flipped flopped on this pick all morning. Ultimately I decided on the Bolts based on their offensive skill. This Tampa team has grossly underperformed so far this season in terms of offensive production. Nevertheless, I don’t see Florida having counter parts to the triplets line and Captain Stamkos.


Winnipeg @ Saint Louis
Pick: Blues -1.5 (+175)
Tarasenko is on fire this season if you haven’t heard. Have faith in the Russian sniper and rest easy.

Saturday Night NHL Super Slam

Detroit @ Boston
Pick: Red Wings +135
I haven’t said much about the Bruins this year. With each passing day it becomes harder for me to believe Boston willingly parted ways with Tyler Seguin. I look at their roster and I can’t help but think they made one of the biggest mistakes in the history of their storied franchise. Let’s get down to this game though; Datsyuk is back, he looked great last night, and the Wings are going to roll.


Colorado @ Montreal
Pick: Canadiens -190
I really wanted to roll the goal line pick for the Habs but I just don’t have the balls when Carey Price is sitting out. Montreal should take care of bidness at home tonight but this Avs team has been finding ways to hang around in games.


Pittsburgh @ New Jersey
Pick: Penguins -115
Im just going to keep rolling with the penguins until they hit.


Philadelphia @ Carolina
Pick: Hurricanes -155
Philly has won 1 of their last 9 games. Honestly, don’t even watch this game.


Vancouver @ Toronto
Pick: Maple Leafs +110
I am rolling with the LEAFS!! Toronto heads into this Saturday Night Soooopppeerrrr Slammm riding a hot 2 game win streak! Wins over Dallas and Nashville ON THE ROAD make them the pick of the night! As the sayin’ goes, LET ‘ER BUCK!


Florida @ Tampa Bay
Pick: Panthers +140
I don’t know why but, I’m feeling the Panthers tonight. Jagr and his mullet will get the job done.


San Jose @ Buffalo
Pick: Sabres +105
Roll the home dog! Jack Eichel, or as he’s known around here, Cap’n Jack is going to lead the way tonight. San Jose played last night in Detroit so they’re definitely tired.


Arizona @ Columbus
Pick: Coyotes (EVEN)
The Blue Jackets’ little streak is bound to come to an end sooner or later. I’m putting my money on tonight.


Chicago @ Saint Louis
Pick: Chicago +110
Now, here is the game to watch tonight. Toews and Kane look to take it to the Blues on the road. I couldn’t decide which way to go on this game so I rolled the under dog defending Stanley Cup Champs.

Friday Night NHL Action

Columbus @ Pittsburgh
Pick: Penguins -1.5 (+160)
The heater I’m on right now (16-5 in my last 21 picks) is starting to get to my head I think. I’m looking at this game and all I see is a blow out coming the Blue Jackets way. As expected, the Penguins offense took some time and some tuning to figure out how to utilize Crosby, Kessel, and Malkin in the most effective way. All the signs say they’ve got it figured out now. Good luck Columbus.


Calgary @ Washington
Pick: -1.5 (+155)
Another game, another ATS pick. Fuck it, Roll it! The Flames played on the road in Tampa just last night. The Caps played on the road last night as well except just over in Philly. Once again, the NHL schedule makes no sense. Caps at home coming off a win and Ovi has a chance to make history. I’ll take it.


San Jose @ Detroit
Pick: Red Wings -110
Datsyuk’s back in the line up.


NY Islanders @ Anaheim
Pick: Islanders +115
Ducks are coming off a home loss to Edmonton. Isles are coming off a loss on the road to the Kings last night. I’m going with my gut here. New York wins and the Ducks start thinking about parting ways with some people.

Thursday Night NHL Full Slate

Colorado @ Boston
Pick: Colorado +150
The Avs will look to build on Tuesday’s 4-0 win in Philly when they take to the ice in Boston tonight. Duchene is coming off a 2 goal game with MacKinnon picking up an assist. Colorado’s best players are leading the offense right now and I like that. Look for the Avs to continue to roll on the road.


Washington @ Philadelphia
Pick: Capitals -1.5 (+205)
Colorado just manhandled the Flyers 4-0 two days ago. Ovi and his team are better from top to bottom than the Avs. I like the Caps to roll tonight and send the Flyers packing.


Minnesota @ Carolina
Pick: Wild -130
I like the Wild a lot this year. They have deep run potential in a strong Western Conference. Minnesota is coming off a big win against the Jets. Their offense is explosive and has been successful in finding the back of the net. They have the ability to turn a close game into a blow out in a matter of minutes.


Calgary @ Tampa
Pick: Lightning -175; OVER 5.5 +115
I have a feeling Tampa will rebound after losing to Buffalo at home on Tuesday. The Bolts’ offense has way too many weapons to lose 2 games in a row at home to sub par teams. Look for Tampa to explode on the scoreboard.



Vancouver @ Ottawa
Pick: Canucks -110
I rolled with the Canucks on Tuesday on the road and they won. I’m sticking with them again tonight against what I consider an average at best Senators team. Last year the Sens salvaged their season on the back of some insane goaltending. Their team is really not that good unless they have a goalie putting on a once in a lifetime performance.


Buffalo @ Florida
Pick: Sabres +150
Buffalo served me well on Tuesday with their win over Tampa on the road. Tonight they’re taking on Florida’s other team down in Miami. I like Buffalo to roll tonight and get a little win streak going.


Toronto @ Nashville
Pick: Predators -1.5 (+115)
Like I said on Tuesday, it takes a damn good hockey team to beat the Predators on their home ice. The Leafs are not that team.


Winnipeg @ Dallas
Pick: Stars -1.5 (+210)
Dallas is coming off loss at home to the Leafs on Tuesday. Basically, I don’t think there is a good chance they lose 2 games at home in a row to shitty teams. Look for Seguin and Benn to lead the Dallas offense and blow out the Jets


Edmonton @ Arizona
Pick: Coyotes -140
A McDavid-less Oilers team is essentially the same team that came in last place in the NHL last year. The loss of McDavid sucks for the Oilers and sucks for hockey but it is a reality. The Coyotes have surprised some people with some tough wins this season. They are coming off 2 wins on the road in Anaheim and Los Angeles.


NY Islanders @ Los Angeles
Pick: Islanders +115
This is my toss up pick of the night. I don’t have any particular reason to take one team or the other. My gut instinct tells me the Islanders will win though.

NHL Quick Pick!

Arizona (+165) @ Anaheim The Ducks have turned their season around by winning their last 4 games. The Coyotes have started off better than expected this season. I like the ‘Yotes to pull off the road upset and end the little streak the Ducks have going. OVER/UNDER: OVER 5 (-115)

Sugar's Friday NHL Picks

Friday Night NHL Picks

Okay, so I started the season off 1-4 last night (Thursday NHL Picks).  Don’t hit the panic button just yet though folks.  I did some soul searching this morning and I’m ready to get back on this horse and give it the old college try.  

NY Rangers @ Columbus Blue Jackets

Pick: Rangers -110

The Rangers are coming off a difficult win on the road against the defending champions.  After taking down the Blackhawks on their banner raising night the Rangers are set to keep rolling on the road in Columbus.  The Blue Jackets are coming off a disappointing season plagued with injuries.  This Columbus team is much more talented than their performance showed last season.  However, the Rangers seem to be on top of their game.  Rangers over the Jackets in a tight game here.

Winnipeg Jets @ New Jersey Devils

Pick: Jets -1.5 (+250)

The Jets are playing their second in a back to back games but I don’t think that’s any reason to worry.  After dismantling the Boston Bruins last night 6-2, the Jets head to New Jersey to take on, what I consider, a weak Devils team.  New Jersey had a disappointing season last year and they didn’t do a whole lot to change things around in the offseason.  I like Winnipeg to keep rolling tonight.

Chicago Blackhawks @ NY Islanders

Pick: OVER 5.5 (+115)

I like the Islanders to win in this one but I don’t feel confident with any pick against the Blackhawks right now.  However, I do like the scoring threats on both teams.  This game features some of the games premier scorers.

Toronto Maple Leafs @ Detroit Red Wings

Pick: Wings -1.5 (+170)

Detroit didn’t have to wait long for Babcock to return to the Joe.  The first game of the season for the Wings features Babcock and the Leafs coming to town.  While I do think Babs is the best coach in the game, I think the Wings are in a much better position talent wise.  Wings roll in their home opener and Babs is left wondering if he made a big mistake.

Arizona Coyotes @ Los Angeles Kings

Pick: Coyotes +215

This is my ballsy pick of the night.  LA got thrashed by the Sharks in their home opener.  The Coyotes aren’t a powerhouse by any means but things don’t appear to be in ship shape in LA.  Coyotes win in an upset.

Sugar's Week 2 College Football Picks

Week 2 College Football Picks

Buffalo +20 @ Penn State

Here’s a real barn burner for the fans.  The Nittany Lions look to bounce back after an embarrassing loss to Temple last week.  Let’s get some facts straight here before people go all ape shit, Temple is not a good football team compared to what Penn State will face in the B1G this season.  That loss was turrible. Do I think Penn State is going to lose? Absolutely not. But at the same time, I don’t think Penn State is going to “Sandusky” Buffalo. Too soon? I think Buffalo makes a game out of this and ends up losing by 2 TD’s.  

Western Michigan University -4 @ Georgia Southern

This pick is entirely based on what I saw from WMU last week against the Spartans.  They looked a lot better than I imagined.  Take into consideration that they were up against one of the best defenses in the nation (if not THE best) and managed to put up 24 points, well you get the picture.  Their offense is explosive with big play capabilities.  Two weeks from this Saturday WMU heads to the Horseshoe in Columbus to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes.  Basically, the pressure is on the Bronco’s right now.  They started off their season with an almost guaranteed loss and have another guaranteed loss in 2 weeks.  They gotta win some gamez here.

Notre Dame -12.5 @ Virginia

The Fighting Irish had their way with the Longhorns last weekend, crushing them 38-3.  UT’s offense was nonexistent to say the least.  Virginia shouldn’t pose much more of a challenge for Notre Dame as they look to open up their season 2-0.

Oregon State @ Michigan -15

Have you ever been to a season home opener at the Big House? Me either.  But I imagine 110,000 intoxicated screaming people make for an alright atmosphere.  Just kidding, it’s going to be fucking insane at the Big House this weekend.  This is Harbaugh’s first game back in the Big House since his last year as starting qb for the Wolverines in 1986.  This is a guy who was raised around Bo Schembechler (his dad worked for him) and played for Bo.  Now he has Bo’s old job.  It is not a far stretch to suggest Jim Harbaugh is who he is today largely in part because of Bo.  Let’s get back to this game though.  Harbaugh’s team is going to be ready to go.  Michigan faces a fairly weak OSU team giving them the perfect opportunity to put on a show for the 110,000 fans in attendance.

Oklahoma -1.5 @ Tennessee - LOCK OF THE WEEK

Does anyone think Tennessee is going to win this game? I certainly do not. Want more reasons? subscribe to our super exclusive insider lock package!

Oregon @ Michigan State -3.5

Here’s the biggest match up of the weekend.  The speculation is that this game will turn into a shootout and people wonder if State can keep up if it comes to that.  Not only do I think Sparty can keep up, I think they can “out shoot” the Ducks this year.  However, I don’t think it will come to that.  The Spartan defense is going to be called upon this week and they will answer.  I think Sparty takes this one at home.

UCLA -30 @ UNLV

Typically I stay away from crazy lines like these but, UNLV is really bad.  They won 2 games last year.  UCLA could very easily run this score up real big on the road here.

Idaho @ USC -43

Rolling with another crazy ass line here.  I could lay out the numbers for you but do I really need to?  USC just beat Arkansas State 55-6.  This game should look pretty much the exact same.

Appalachian State @ Clemson -19

I flip flopped on this line a little bit to be honest.  Appalachian State seems like one of the bigger fish in the smaller pond.  Let’s talk about Clemson at home though.  Since 2013 Clemson has lost 1 game at home and it was to the eventual national champion, Florida State in 2013.  They are 13-1 at home since the beginning of the 2013 season.  What’s more impressive is their average margin of victory.  Clemson destroys teams at home.  They call their field Death Valley for a reason. What am I talking about? I’m talking about the 29.7 or 30 point average margin of victory Clemson has in their 13 home wins since the beginning of the 2013 season.  That is insane.  You do not want to play in Death Valley.  The numbers say Clemson will EASILY cover this spread. 

Saturday MLB Picks!

Saturday Night Baseball Locks

Pittsburg Pirates @ Washington “Natty Ice” Nationals

Pick: Washington -1.5 (+160)

Former Detroit Tigers’ ace, Max Scherzer, is on the mound for the Natty Ice tonight.  Scherzer might not be the league’s top pitcher this year but he’s still one of the best.  Washington’s roster is way too good to be a measly 2 games above .500.  I expect the Natty’s to put the hurt on the Pirates tonight in our nation’s capital.

Los Angeles Angels @ Oakland Athletics

Pick: Los Angeles SU (+123)

The Angels are 7-4 in their last 11 games including a 12 run offensive outburst last night that gave them a win in the first game of this series.  Both starting pitchers are having mediocre seasons so I don’t see either team having the upper hand in that regard.  This game should come down to hitting which means the Angels should win.

OVER/UNDER: OVER 10 (-125)

Milwaukee Brewers @ Colorado Rockies

Pick: Milwaukee SU (+121)

The Rockies have 1 win in their last 10 outings and are riding a 5 game losing streak.  Since I like to think baseball teams are always trending one way or another, either winning a lot or losing a lot, I’m picking for the Rockies to keep losing.  Look for Milwaukee to “brew” up somethin’ nasty tonight while Colorado continues on their “rocky” path.

St. Louis Cardinals @ Philadelphia Phillies

Pick: St. Louis -1.5 (+105)

The Phillies are 1-10 in their last 11 and they’re taking on the best team in baseball right now.  With John Lackey on the mound for the Cards, the Phillies are going to have a tough time getting on base.  Look for St. Louis to stomp out the Phillies and make you some easy money.

New York Mets @ Atlanta Braves

Pick: Atlanta SU (EVEN)

The Braves have been trading wins and loses for about 2 weeks now.  They won yesterday in a tight, 2-1, game.  Perez (3-0) has the start for the Braves tonight and there’s no reason to plan on this being his first loss.  The Braves win games by playing good solid baseball.  What does that mean?  I have no idea but it sounds nice.  

Detroit Tigers @ New York Yankees

Pick: Detroit SU (+120)

The biggest cheater in professional sports, Alex Rodriguez, got his “3,000th” hit last night in the form of a home run.  Why is this guy still allowed to play in your sport baseball fans?  Grow some balls and quit letting cheaters take over your game.  Anyways, the Tigers are 34-33 right now; 1 game away from being .500.  This roster is way too good to be .500.  Even a non Detroit fan can admit that.  With a .500 record coming at them like Verlander’s fastball in 2007, I expect this roster to respond.  Look for Miggy to go yard 15 times and show everyone that the Tigers are still a team people should watch out for.

OVER/UNDER: OVER 8.5 (-105)

Wednesday Night Baseball Picks

MLB Picks: June 17th

Baltimore @ Philadelphia

Pick: Baltimore -1.5 

The Orioles have out scored the Phillies 23-3 over the past 2 games.  The numbers are pretty strong for Baltimore here.  Their bats are hitting everything thrown at them right now.  The spread is the obvious choice here.  

Miami @ NY Yankees

Pick: Miami (+190)

When I look at the results of last night’s game (Miami won 12-2), it seems obvious that Miami will win tonight.  Then again, this is baseball and it’s the only sport where a team can lose by 10 and come back and beat the same team the next night.  I’m rolling with Giancarlo Stanton and the Miami Marlins tho.

Boston @ Atlanta

Pick: Atlanta (-121)

The Red Sox are 1-7 in their last 8.  They split the first two games of this series in Boston and will play in Atlanta for the next 2 days.  I don’t know what’s going on in the Red Sox Clubhouse but apparently winning games is on the back burner right now.  The Braves are the pick here.

Houston @ Colorado

Pick: Houston (-132)

Colorado has one win in their last 7 and head into tonight with 2 straight losses down in Houston.  They’re back in Colorado but that probably won’t help them tonight.  Houston has emerged as one of the best teams in baseball this season.  I expect them to win tonight and tomorrow, completing the sweep.

San Francisco @ Seattle

Pick: San Francisco +1.5 (-190)

It’s tough to top Baumgarner vs King Felix when it comes to big names going head to head in baseball.  I expect a low scoring game and for the Giants to at least cover.

Milwaukee @ Kansas City

Pick: Kansas City -1.5 (+155)

KC is coming off 2 straight wins in Milwaukee preceding tonight’s game.  The Royals may have made a laughing stock of the MLB Allstar Game but, that doesn’t mean they don’t win a shit load of games.  They dominated on the road, there’s no reason to think they won’t do the same at home.

NHL Playoff Saturday Picks

Saturday NHL Playoff Picks

Minnesota Wild@ Saint Louis - Game 2 

Pick:  Minnesota +125

Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-115)

This pick comes as a result of several admittedly premature assertions I’ve made after just one game in this series.  Last game I saw a Wild team on the ice who’s playoff style hockey was finely tuned.  No surprise there, since that’s what’s been required of Minnesota for a month now.  I saw a Blues team that is loaded with talent struggle to play to their potential.  There is a very good chance that Saint Louis simply had to shake off some playoff jitters.  It’s almost guaranteed the Blues look a lot better this afternoon.  I like Minnesota still though.  The Blues showed up late to the party and Minnesota took advantage of it.  This has all the looks of the Blues deserving a win but getting shut down by a hot goaltender at clutch time.

Detroit @ Tampa

Pick: Detroit +1.5 (-190)

Over/Under: Over 5.5 (+120)

After losing game one (3-2) at home, the Bolts should be facing a lot of pressure right now.  If you saw the game however, you’re thinking otherwise.  Tampa’s Stamkos explained it best after the game courtesy of Lightning beat writer Joe Smith, “9 times out of 10 we win that one”.  Right now Tampa’s mindset is simple: Repeat.  The Bolts outshot the Wings 46-14 last game; there isn’t anything more you can do besides finish your opportunities.  From the Detroit side, I fully expect the Wings to have a different game plan for slowing down Tampa and controlling the puck more.  Tampa’s speed is lethal which makes them a fun team to watch.  Detroit will need a new game plan for the neutral zone; a crucial area that Detroit was greatly outplayed in.  Babcock is as good as they come and he just might be the difference maker for Detroit.  I expect the Wings to play much better but might still come up short against the leagues best offense in a must win game at home.  Either way, Mrazek plays a hell of a game and it’s a nail biter.

Pittsburgh @ New York Rangers

Pick: Pittsburgh +1.5 (-180)

Over/Under: Over 5 (-120)

This is the series the NHL should be promoting the fuck out of!  This afternoon, in a SOLD OUT Madison Square Garden some of the most recognizable names in this entire sport are going head to head in playoff hockey.  In my personal life I can’t stand the sight of the Penguins.  I dislike them on cellular level after watching them win the 2010 Stanley Cup at Joe Louis in Game 7.  In my professional life however, I can appreciate the product Pittsburgh puts on the ice when all its pieces are in place.  The wildcard on the Penguins in recent history has been Fleury.  It’s hard to predict when he will and won’t show up and perform.  Last game he played his ass off so it’s safe to assume he’s in it for these playoffs.  The Penguins with solid goaltending have as good a shot as any team to knock out the Rangers.  The case for the Rangers: They’re rolling.  They executed, they were physical, and they won.  Lundqvist played great and reminded everyone why that’s his net and only his net.  The Rangers roll deep lines which requires some amount of momentum to be effective.  Your fourth line isn’t going to go out and make anything happen if they don’t have a little momentum to give them a jump.  New York players and fans alike will be praying that Rick Nash can break through early on in this series and provide some much needed scoring.

Winnipeg @ Anaheim 

Pick: Anaheim (-135)

Over/Under: Over 5 (-145)

Winnipeg executed well for 2 periods last game and headed into the 3rd with a 2-1 lead.  It took Corey Perry 1 minute and 9 seconds to even things up.  To the Jets’ credit they didn’t fold up after that.  They matched the Ducks in shots (10) in the third period.  The difference came down to which star players earned their pay check. And that was: Corey Perry (2 goals) and Ryan Getzlaf (1 goal) in the third period for Anaheim.  The Jets have the road disadvantage of not having the last change making it hard for them to always get their match ups right.  If Getzlaf and Perry get loose on a couple 3rd string defensemen the Jets are in trouble.  I’m expecting the Ducks to keep scoring and the Jets to do their best to keep up.

Hump Day NHL picks

Wednesday NHL Pickings

Chicago -1.5 (+185) @ Philly
Philly has 1 win in their last 5 games and Chicago has 1 loss in their last 5.  I'm not a 'traditional' numbers guy but the numbers are too obvious to ignore in this one.  Chicago's guys are gearing up for another Stanley Cup run while Philly's guys are sizing up that new set of irons.


Colorado @ Edmonton
OVER 5.5 (+105)
This game could go a million different ways.  The two most underachieving clubs square off in an irrelevant game.  It has high scoring written all over it if you ask me.


Dallas @ Calgary (-115)
Calgary is a sneaky team.  The hockey media treats them like the ugly girl who didn't get invited to the party.  They aren't considered a factor when it comes to the best in the West.  The reality is Calgary has shaped up to be a formidable squad with great home ice advantage.  Playing up there in bum fuck Calgary always seems weird for visiting NHL teams.  Their fans are loud, their goal horn is atrocious, they have weird lights, and everything else just seems foreign.  Calgary has a great home ice advantage and I expect that to play a part in tonights game.

Midweek NHL Pickz

Midweek NHL Pickz

Minnesota (+130) @ NY Islanders

Both teams can’t afford to lose a game right now so this should be a good one.  Minnesota has won 10 of their last 13 games and saved their season, while the Islanders are dropping games like it’s going out of style.  Minnesota has been efficient on offense while benefiting from the stellar play of Devon Dubnyk between the pipes.  From the outside, Halak is the starting goalie in NY but there might be trouble stewin’ in the locker room with 2 starting goalies on the roster now.  I like Minnesota because of the wave of momentum they ride into tonight on.

LA @ NY Rangers (-145)

Even if the Rangers lose I won’t regret this pick.  The Rangers have been on fire the past month.  They’re coming off a 7-2 blow out of Anaheim heading into tonight.  The Kings head to the Big Apple with a tough task at hand.  The Rangers look primed to make another cup run.

Anaheim @ Columbus +145

I have a feeling Anaheim is going to play like shit tonight for a couple reasons.  They started their East coast road trip with a 7-2 loss to the Rangers and they’re playing a Jackets team that has been stealing games left and right.  If last game is a sign of anything for the Ducks it’s that they didn’t come out east ready to play.  

Saint Louis @ Pittsburgh (-145)

This is a tough call to make.  Both teams have been struggling at numerous things on the ice lately.  One game they can’t score and the next they can’t keep the puck out of their own net to save their life.  With the Pens potent offense at home I think the Blues will make too many defensive mistakes tonight.

Florida @ Tampa -1.5 (+155)

Tampa has won their last 3 games by 2 goals.  Captain Stamkos threw down against Brad Marchand on the Bruins the other night.  This team appears to be in playoff mode heading down the stretch.

Arizona @ Detroit 

OVER 5.5 (+110)

Detroit should win but the line is terrible even if you bet the spread.  Detroit’s powerplay and depth upfront are due to light the lamp.  A Yotes team that has been losing every game is no match for the Wings right now at the Joe.

Montreal (+105) @ Smashville

Carey Price will give the Habs more than a fair chance to win tonight.

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              -15.80 DPD                      4.20 DPD

Day 5

Sugar - 3 DPD to win 1.67 DPD
Philadelphia (-180) @ Buffalo 
I imagine this is how it feels to be down 3 games to 0 in a series.  You do all the preparation and log the practice hours to be successful, but for one reason or another things just won't go your way.  I've made 4 picks thus far;  the 3 picks I considered locks all lost and the 1 pick I made out of pure frustration ended up winning.  It is now Day 5 and I have 4.20 DPD remaining.  Since the only pick I didn't lose money on was a curveball, I'm going to roll with what has worked and serve up another breaking ball low and inside.  Obviously Buffalo loses a lot of games and as a result have emerged as a front runner in the McDavid sweepstakes.   I don't think I've picked the Flyers all season and if I have it's only been once or twice.  They've spent most of the season playing very off and on; winning 3-4 in a row and following it up with 3-4 losses.  It's tough to identify any trends or signs that point to which Flyers team will be taking the ice on any given night.  However, I'm throwing curveballs until I dig myself out of this hole and my breaking ball of the night is Philly (-180).

Wednesday Night College Basketball Picks

College Bucketz Winners

Villanova -4 @ Providence

6th ranked ‘Nova is primed to roll tonight on the road.  They’ve only lost 2 games this season and have won most of their games by at least 4 points.  I don’t see this game being that close.

Syracuse @ Boston College +2.5

The ole BC vs ‘Cuse match up once again.  This Boston College team has been horrible this year but they always give Syracuse a run for their money.  Remember last year?  Boston beat an undefeated Syracuse team midway through the season.  Cuse will probably win by 1 or 2 tonight.

South Florida @ Central Florida -2.5

The marquee match up of the NIGHT!!! SOUTHIE VS CENTRAL, THE SHOWDOWN IN FLOTOWN!  Tune in and watch as the Central Florida Knightzzz go to WORK on those foreigners from down south!  

Bradley @ Drake -2
I’m not sure if this is a college basketball match up or just a line for 2 neighborhood bro’s playing 1 on 1.  Either way, Drizzake is the home team and I’m sure they (or he) will have a massive turn out for this pivotal match.  DRAKE FTW! ROLL IT!

Back on the Prowl Pickz

After an extended absence due to a combination of garbage lines and general apathy towards writing (or being productive in general); your boy Bobby Catz is back to share early Christmas love with some solid NBA picks. Being laid out on the couch for a few days due to an illness, allowed me the opportunity to watch some games and get a pretty strong feel for how certain teams are playing, the following lines are based on that information.

NOP (+4.5) vs. HOU

This one is more about the Rockets than it is about the Pelicans. I watched the Rockets play a tough Nuggets team through five quarters last night, barely pulling out a victory because James Harden is on a monster run right now and can not be stopped by a mere mortal. However, Harden has to be exhausted tonight, and who do they get to play?? That's right, the future of the league and one of the most unique players in NBA history, Anthony "Lamar" Davis. Also I have no idea what his middle name is, but I assume its Lamar. A tired Rockets team is definitely losing this game tonight, so take the points and enjoy!

OKC (+2.5) vs. GS

Basically a coin flip game right? Do you really want to be on the side where you are giving points to a team that features a backcourt of Westbrook and Durant? I don't care how good the Warriors have been this season, I still trust the Thunder to come out and prove a point in this game, the point being that the West is still going to go through them or San Antonio and that message gets sent tonight.

MIL (+6) vs. SAC

Ouch, Jabari Parker tore his ACL the other night, ending his season before we even hit the 1/3 mark! But don't let that stop you from taking the points here. Sacramento recently fired their head coach despite having one of their best seasons in years, that can not be good for bidness. Seriously, who would take that job knowing that the owner has crazy, unrealistic expectations with a roster that isn't exactly what you would call first class?? Tonight is one of the games where if they had the right coach and gameplan they would roll over this inferior opponent, but due to the recent turmoil caused by the turnover, they are going to get shown up by a solid coaching effort from J Kidd.