NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Wednesday, December 19

Hot Teams
-- Jazz won five of last seven games (1-7-1 as AU). Indiana won three of last four games (5-3 as HF).
-- Orlando won four of its last five games (2-2 as HF).
-- Knicks won nine of last eleven games (7-3 as HF).
-- Thunder won its last eleven games (5-2 as AF). Atlanta won six of its last eight games (2-1 as HU).
-- Rockets won three of last four games (5-2 last 7 as HF).
-- Suns won last three games, allowing 84.7 ppg (2-6 as HF).
-- Milwaukee won five of last six games (5-2 as AU). Grizzlies won last two games, allowing 71-86 points (7-3-1 as HF).
-- Warriors won 10 of last 12 games (2-1-1 as AF).
-- Clippers won their last ten games (7-4 as HF).

Cold Teams
-- Raptors lost six of last eight games (2-1 as HF). Detroit lost its last five games (5-8 as AU).
-- Wizards lost six of their last seven games (5-4-1 as AU).
-- Brooklyn lost seven of its last nine games (4-3 as AU).
-- Cleveland lost eight of last nine games (6-3 as AU of 7+ points). Celtics lost last three games, by 11-15-12 points (4-5-1 as HF).
-- 76ers lost last four games, by 7-10-13-7 points (3-4 as AU).
-- Bobcats lost their last 12 games, covered two of last seven (2-4 as AU of 7+ points).
-- New Orleans lost its last eight games (8-3 as AU).
-- Kings lost last five games, all by 10+ points (2-4 as HU).

Totals
-- Last four Utah games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Toronto games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last seven Orlando games stayed under total.
-- 14 of last 18 Brooklyn games stayed under the total.
-- Six of last nine Cleveland games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Thunder road games went over the total.
-- Last four Houston games stayed under the total.
-- Last four Phoenix games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last six Milwaukee road games stayed under total.
-- Five of last seven Sacramento home games went over total.
-- Four of last five Clipper games stayed under the total.

Back-to-backs
-- Utah is 2-4 vs spread if it played night before. Indiana is 3-3.
-- Raptors are 5-2 vs spread (2-0 at home) if they played nite before.
-- Washington is 3-1 vs spread on road if they played night before.
-- Brooklyn is 1-3 vs spread on road if it played night before.
-- Boston is 2-3-2 vs spread if it played night before. Cavaliers are 3-2 vs spread on road if they played night before.
-- Hawks are 4-0 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- 76ers are 2-4 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Bobcats are 3-2 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Milwaukee is 0-4 vs spread if it played the night before.
-- Warriors are 4-1-1 vs spread if they played night before.
-- Hornets are 4-2 vs spread if they played night before.

NBA
Short Sheet

Wednesday, December 19

Utah at Indiana, 7:05 ET
Utah: 34-19 Over in non-conference games
Indiana: 5-16 ATS after covering 3 of their last 4 against the spread

Detroit at Toronto, 7:05 ET
Detroit: 27-14 ATS off a home loss
Toronto: 10-23 ATS after scoring 105 points or more

Washington at Orlando, 7:05 ET
Washington: 16-35 ATS after covering 2 of their last 3 against the spread
Orlando: 14-3 ATS after a game where they made 95% of their free throws or better

Brooklyn at New York, 7:05 ET ESPN
Brooklyn: 29-43 ATS when playing 8 or more games in 14 days
New York: 8-1 ATS after 1 or more consecutive unders

Cleveland at Boston, 7:35 ET
Cleveland: 18-8 ATS in road games after one or more consecutive overs
Boston: 15-30 ATS when playing on back-to-back days

Oklahoma City at Atlanta, 7:35 ET
Oklahoma City: 19-7 ATS in road games in December
Atlanta: 18-38 ATS in home games after playing a game as favorite

Philadelphia at Houston, 8:05 ET
Philadelphia: 2-8 ATS after playing a game as an underdog
Houston: 9-2 ATS in non-conference games

Charlotte at Phoenix, 9:05 ET
Charlotte: 9-25 ATS revenging a same season loss vs opponent
Phoenix: 56-29 ATS after a game committing 8 or less turnovers

Milwaukee at Memphis, 9:35 ET ESPN
Milwaukee: 5-16 ATS revenging a home loss vs opponent
Memphis: 11-2 ATS after allowing 90 points or less 2 straight games

Golden State at Sacramento, 10:05 ET
Golden State: 7-1 ATS after a game where they failed to cover the spread
Sacramento: 17-38 ATS first half of the season

New Orleans at LA Clippers, 10:35 ET
New Orleans: 28-16 ATS in road games
LA Clippers: 4-14 ATS after playing 4 consecutive road games

NBA
Long Sheet

Wednesday, December 19

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UTAH (14 - 12) at INDIANA (13 - 12) - 12/19/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 44-73 ATS (-36.3 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 185 and 189.5 points since 1996.
INDIANA is 127-88 ATS (+30.2 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
UTAH is 3-0 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
UTAH is 2-1 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DETROIT (7 - 20) at TORONTO (7 - 19) - 12/19/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 10-23 ATS (-15.3 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 4-4 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 6-2 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WASHINGTON (3 - 19) at ORLANDO (11 - 13) - 12/19/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ORLANDO is 4-4 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
ORLANDO is 7-1 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BROOKLYN (13 - 11) at NEW YORK (18 - 6) - 12/19/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 4-4 against the spread versus BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 7-2 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CLEVELAND (5 - 21) at BOSTON (12 - 12) - 12/19/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 4-1 against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 4-2 straight up against CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OKLAHOMA CITY (20 - 4) at ATLANTA (15 - 7) - 12/19/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 17-4 ATS (+12.6 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 61-47 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 54-40 ATS (+10.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 106-76 ATS (+22.4 Units) in road games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 19-7 ATS (+11.3 Units) in road games in December games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 37-19 ATS (+16.1 Units) in road games first half of the season since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 73-49 ATS (+19.1 Units) in non-conference games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 45-26 ATS (+16.4 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 19-6 ATS (+12.4 Units) in road games after playing 3 consecutive home games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 2-2 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 2-2 straight up against OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PHILADELPHIA (12 - 13) at HOUSTON (12 - 12) - 12/19/2012, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 2-1 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 2-1 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHARLOTTE (7 - 17) at PHOENIX (10 - 15) - 12/19/2012, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHARLOTTE is 32-57 ATS (-30.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 31-51 ATS (-25.1 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 20-47 ATS (-31.7 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 18-35 ATS (-20.5 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHARLOTTE is 3-1 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 2-2 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MILWAUKEE (13 - 10) at MEMPHIS (16 - 6) - 12/19/2012, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 18-37 ATS (-22.7 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 14-26 ATS (-14.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 105-81 ATS (+15.9 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 56-37 ATS (+15.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 3-1 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 4-0 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GOLDEN STATE (17 - 8) at SACRAMENTO (7 - 17) - 12/19/2012, 10:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
SACRAMENTO is 4-4 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 5-4 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW ORLEANS (5 - 19) at LA CLIPPERS (18 - 6) - 12/19/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 126-167 ATS (-57.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 45-32 ATS (+9.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 42-24 ATS (+15.6 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 63-89 ATS (-34.9 Units) against Southwest division opponents since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 5-2 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 4-3 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

NBA

Wednesday, December 19

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why these three NBA teams just can't cover
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Winning basketball games can be really broken down into three things: they don’t turn the ball over, they rebound on defense, and they hit their free throws.

If a team does those three things consistently, they’re a tough out. But if a team can’t hang on to the ball, gives up offensive boards, and throws up bricks from the stripe not only are they a loser – they’re a losing bet.

Here’s a look at three teams burning bettors through the first part of the NBA schedule and the reasons why. (Records are as of before Wednesday's games).


Dallas Mavericks (12-13 SU, 12-13 ATS)

Trouble: Turnovers

The Mavericks went 0-3 on their recent three-game road swing, losing at Minnesota, Toronto and Boston, while covering in just two of those games. Dallas has had turnover troubles all season but things got out of hand on this road run.

The Mavericks coughed the ball up 65 times during those games, including a 28-turnover fiasco in Boston. They barfed up 17 turnovers in a loss to the lowly Raptors and threw the ball away 20 times in an overtime loss to the T-Wolves.


Charlotte Bobcats (7-17 SU, 10-14 ATS)

Trouble: Defensive rebounding

The Bobcats’ list of faults rivals that of Santa’s naughty and nice count, but keeping teams off the offensive glass could be the most costly of those problems. Charlotte has watched foes pluck 13 offensive rebounds per game and boasts a 69.6 percent defensive rebound rate – worst in the NBA.

All those leaked second-chance opportunities aren’t doing Bobcats bettors any favors, even with the team getting plenty of points from oddsmakers most nights. A soft front court is to blame. Seven-footer Byron Mullens is the team’s top rebounder with just over seven boards per night.


Los Angeles Lakers (12-14 SU, 10-15-1 ATS)

Trouble: Foul shooting

Could solving the Lakers’ issues be as simple as knocking down a few free throws? When it comes to NBA bettors – yes. Los Angeles, despite its struggles, still gets respect from oddsmakers and backers need all the scoring they can get to cover those inflated spreads.

The Lakers get to the line more than any team in the league, attempting 30.3 foul shots per game. But, those points fly out the window with the team shooting a collective 68.7 percent - 29th in the NBA. That’s close to 10 points going MIA a night. Seeing that L.A.’s average margin of victory is only 2.8 points, those additional freebies would make a world of difference.

NBA

Wednesday, December 19

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7:00 PM
DETROIT vs. TORONTO
Detroit is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Detroit

7:00 PM
BROOKLYN vs. NEW YORK
Brooklyn is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games when playing on the road against New York
Brooklyn is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against New York
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New York's last 7 games at home
New York is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games at home

7:00 PM
UTAH vs. INDIANA
Utah is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Utah's last 9 games when playing on the road against Indiana
Indiana is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Utah
Indiana is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home

7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. ORLANDO
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Orlando
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Washington's last 10 games when playing on the road against Orlando
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Orlando's last 10 games when playing at home against Washington
Orlando is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Washington

7:30 PM
CLEVELAND vs. BOSTON
Cleveland is 1-12 SU in its last 13 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games on the road
Boston is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Cleveland
Boston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home

7:30 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. ATLANTA
Oklahoma City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Oklahoma City is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 1-8 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
Atlanta is 3-14 ATS in its last 17 games when playing Oklahoma City

8:00 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Philadelphia's last 12 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Houston's last 12 games when playing Philadelphia
Houston is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games at home

9:00 PM
CHARLOTTE vs. PHOENIX
Charlotte is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Charlotte is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Phoenix is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
Phoenix is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Charlotte

9:30 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. MEMPHIS
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Milwaukee's last 13 games when playing Memphis
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Milwaukee's last 13 games
Memphis is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Memphis's last 5 games

10:00 PM
GOLDEN STATE vs. SACRAMENTO
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Golden State's last 18 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
Golden State is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Sacramento's last 6 games when playing Golden State
Sacramento is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Golden State

10:30 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. LA CLIPPERS
New Orleans is 17-3 SU in their last 20 games when playing LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 7 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
LA Clippers are 2-18 ATS in their last 20 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 6 games at home

NBA
Dunkel

Oklahoma City at Atlanta
The Thunder look to take advantage of an Atlanta team that is 3-10-1 ATS in its last 14 home games. Oklahoma City is the pick (-6) according to Dunkel, which has the Thunder favored by 9 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (-6). Here are all of today's picks.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19

Game 701-702: Utah at Indiana (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 117.346; Indiana 118.035
Dunkel Line & Total: Indiana by 1; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 3 1/2; 187 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Utah (+3 1/2); Over

Game 703-704: Detroit at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 112.719; Toronto 118.992
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 6 1/2; 184
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto by 1 1/2; 187
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-1 1/2); Under

Game 705-706: Washington at Orlando (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 111.160; Orlando 123.147
Dunkel Line & Total: Orlando by 12; 193
Vegas Line & Total: Orlando by 6 1/2; 188 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Orlando (-6 1/2); Over

Game 707-708: Brooklyn at New York (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Brooklyn 116.469; New York 127.157
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 10 1/2; 191
Vegas Line & Total: New York by 7 1/2; 195
Dunkel Pick: New York (-7 1/2); Under

Game 709-710: Cleveland at Boston (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 110.335; Boston 119.615
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 9 1/2; 196
Vegas Line & Total: Boston by 7 1/2; 193
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-7 1/2); Over

Game 711-712: Oklahoma City at Atlanta (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 127.138; Atlanta 117.408
Dunkel Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 9 1/2; 194
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 6; 199
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (-6); Under

Game 713-714: Philadelphia at Houston (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 111.753; Houston 123.701
Dunkel Line & Total: Houston by 12; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Houston by 4 1/2; 198 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-4 1/2); Under

Game 715-716: Charlotte at Phoenix (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Charlotte 109.550; Phoenix 116.795
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 7; 202
Vegas Line & Total: Phoenix by 9; 198
Dunkel Pick: Charlotte (+9); Over

Game 717-718: Milwaukee at Memphis (9:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee 115.946; Memphis 126.081
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 10; 181
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 9; 184 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (-9); Under

Game 719-720: Golden State at Sacramento (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Golden State 117.114; Sacramento 115.561
Dunkel Line & Total: Golden State by 1 1/2; 206
Vegas Line & Total: Golden State by 2 1/2; 200
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (+2 1/2); Over

Game 721-722: New Orleans at LA Clippers (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 113.043; LA Clippers 129.100
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 16; 188
Vegas Line & Total: LA Clippers by 13 1/2; 192
Dunkel Pick: LA Clippers (-13 1/2); Under

Wednesday, December 19

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Detroit - 7:00 PM ET Toronto -2.5 500 POD # 1
Toronto - Under 187 500

Brooklyn - 7:00 PM ET New York -6 500
New York - Over 192.5 500

Washington - 7:00 PM ET Washington +7.5 500
Orlando - Under 187.5 500

Utah - 7:00 PM ET Utah +3.5 500 POD # 2
Indiana - Over 187 500

Cleveland - 7:30 PM ET Cleveland +8.5 500
Boston - Under 192 500

Oklahoma City - 7:30 PM ET Atlanta +6 500
Atlanta - Over 198.5 500 Total of the Day

Philadelphia - 8:00 PM ET Houston -7.5 500
Houston - Under 199.5 500

Charlotte - 9:00 PM ET Phoenix -9 500
Phoenix - Under 199 500

Milwaukee - 9:30 PM ET Milwaukee +9 500
Memphis - Over 187.5 500

Golden State - 10:00 PM ET Golden State -3 500
Sacramento - Under 199 500

New Orleans - 10:30 PM ET New Orleans +13.5 500
L.A. Clippers - Over 189.5 500

Thursday, December 20

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Oklahoma City - 7:00 PM ET ( Minnesota +2.5 500 POD )
Minnesota - Under 201.5 500

Miami - 9:30 PM ET Miami -5.5 500
Dallas - Under 200.5 500

Denver - 10:00 PM ET Portland +6 500
Portland - Under 200 500

Thunder Roll Into Minnesota As Hottest Team In NBA

Oklahoma City Thunder at Minnesota Timberwolves
NBA Betting Preview
Date: 12/20/2012 at 7:00 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: OKC -3½, O/U 198
Television: TNT

Oklahoma City Thunder: Oklahoma City (21-4 straight-up, 16-8-1 against the spread) is the hottest team in the NBA with a 12-game winning streak. The Thunder have only played nine road games this year, going 7-2 SU and 6-2-1 ATS. They are 5-0 SU and 3-2 ATS in the second half of a back-to-back situation.

Minnesota Timberwolves: The Timberwolves (12-11 SU, 13-10 ATS) are looking for their first playoff appearance since 2004 and currently sit in eighth place in the Western Conference. They are coming off losses at Orlando (102-93) and Miami (103-92) but have gone 4-0 SU and 3-1 ATS in their last four at the Target Center. Minnesota has lost the last 12 games to Oklahoma City but covered the spread in each of the last five.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Miami Heat at Dallas Mavericks
NBA Betting Preview
Date: 12/20/2012 at 9:30 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Miami -5, O/U 203
Television: TNT

Miami Heat: Miami (16-6 SU, 11-11 ATS) is coming off a six-game homestand that finished with a 4-2 SU and ATS mark. The "under" went 4-0 in the final four, scoring an average of 100.3 points and allowing 88.3 per game. The Heat have only played one away game since Nov. 17, and the team owns a pedestrian 4-4 SU (3-5 ATS) road record this season.

Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks (12-13 SU and ATS) most recently played on Tuesday, a 107-100 home win over Philly as 6-point favorites. They’re now 4-1 SU and ATS in their last five at home but could be without starting point guard Derek Fisher (doubtful, knee) and big man Elton Brand (questionable, groin), so make sure to check the NBA injury report. Coach Rick Carlisle has done a good job mixing and matching guys this year with star Dirk Nowitzki (knee) not playing a game yet. This is the first meeting between the teams this year. Miami has gotten some revenge (2-0 SU and ATS) in the two meetings since getting upset by the Mavs 4-2 in the 2011 NBA Finals.

NBA
Dunkel

Miami at Dallas
The Heat look to build on their 7-2-1 ATS record in their last 10 games in Dallas. Miami is the pick (-5) according to Dunkel, which has the Heat favored by 8. Dunkel Pick: Miami (-5). Here are all of today's picks.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20

Game 501-502: Oklahoma City at Minnesota (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 126.965; Minnesota 121.408
Dunkel Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 5 1/2; 202
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 3 1/2; 198
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (-3 1/2); Over

Game 503-504: Miami at Dallas (9:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 122.467; Dallas 114.667
Dunkel Line & Total: Miami by 8; 198
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 5; 202 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-5); Under

Game 505-506: Denver at Portland (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Denver 121.829; Portland 114.685
Dunkel Line & Total: Denver by 7; 192
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A




NBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, December 20

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OKLAHOMA CITY (21 - 4) at MINNESOTA (12 - 11) - 12/20/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 62-47 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 55-40 ATS (+11.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 107-76 ATS (+23.4 Units) in road games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 20-7 ATS (+12.3 Units) in road games in December games since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 75-51 ATS (+18.9 Units) first half of the season since 1996.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 5-2 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 7-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MIAMI (16 - 6) at DALLAS (12 - 13) - 12/20/2012, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 271-216 ATS (+33.4 Units) as an underdog since 1996.
DALLAS is 252-201 ATS (+30.9 Units) after a non-conference game since 1996.
DALLAS is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 50-33 ATS (+13.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 6-4 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 6-4 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DENVER (14 - 12) at PORTLAND (11 - 12) - 12/20/2012, 10:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 4-3 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
PORTLAND is 4-3 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------




NBA

Thursday, December 20

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7:00 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oklahoma City's last 6 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Minnesota is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games at home

9:30 PM
MIAMI vs. DALLAS
Miami is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Miami is 7-2-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Dallas
Dallas is 2-7-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against Miami
Dallas is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami

10:00 PM
DENVER vs. PORTLAND
Denver is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Portland
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Denver's last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games when playing at home against Denver
Portland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Denver


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




NBA

Thursday, December 20

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NBA TNT doubleheader: Thunder at T-Wolves, Heat at Mavs
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oklahoma City Thunder at Minnesota Timberwolves (+4.5, 199.5)

Oklahoma City takes the best record in the league and a 12-game winning streak into Thursday road contest against Minnesota. Oklahoma City, which dropped two of three to begin the season, has won 20 of 22 and hasn't lost since Nov. 23. Kevin Durant scored a season-high 41 points in Wednesday's 100-92 victory over Atlanta. He scored 18 points in the fourth quarter, when the Thunder held off a late rally by the Hawks, and had 13 rebounds.

The Timberwolves will play their second straight game against a team that made last season's NBA Finals. Minnesota fell 103-92 win at Miami on Tuesday. Ricky Rubio is expected to play Thursday after sitting out against the Heat. The second-year point guard, who struggled in 16 scoreless minutes Monday against Orlando, won't play in back-to-back games for now as he comes back from knee surgery. He had eight points and nine assists in 18 minutes in his season debut Saturday against Dallas.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, TNT, Fox Sports Oklahoma (Oklahoma City)

ABOUT THE THUNDER (21-4, 16-8-1 ATS): Russell Westbrook didn't play like someone who had a bad wrist on Wednesday. He scored 27 points, including 21 in the first half, and 11 assists. Westbrook fell on his right wrist while driving to the basket late in Monday's win over San Antonio, but played 39 minutes against the Hawks. Westbrook has played in 337 consecutive games, the longest streak among active players. He's never missed an NBA game since being drafted out of UCLA in 2008.

ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (12-11, 13-10 ATS): Minnesota began the week with a four-game winning streak, but that could soon be a distant memory. After playing the Thunder, the Timberwolves face a Saturday road game against the New York Knicks, who have the best record in the Eastern Conference. A second-half collapse on Monday led to more criticism from forward Kevin Love. A week after questioning the franchise's direction, Love said following the game that the Timberwolves must be more physical, especially on defense.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.
* Thunder are 1-5 ATS in the last six meetings in Minnesota.
* Thunder are 0-5 ATS in the last five meetings.
* Underdog is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. Minnesota C Nikola Pekovic, playing with a sore back against Miami, scored 18 points and had 12 rebounds, but committed six turnovers.

2. The Thunder's 12-game winning streak is the franchise's longest since it moved from Seattle to Oklahoma City in 2008. The Seattle SuperSonics had a 14-game winning streak in 1996.

3. Oklahoma City has 12 straight wins over Minnesota dating back to 2009.



Miami Heat at Dallas Mavericks (+5.5, 202)

While receiving good news regarding Dirk Nowitzki, the Dallas Mavericks may be shorthanded when they host the reigning champion Miami Heat on national television on Thursday. Nowitzki on Wednesday participated in his first practice since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on Oct. 19 and is hoping to make his season debut shortly after Christmas. However, Dallas will be without point guard Derek Fisher for its meeting with Miami and also could be missing Elton Brand and Brandan Wright. Both are game-time decisions.

Fisher hurt his right knee during an awkward fall in the first quarter of Tuesday's home triumph over Philadelphia, which halted Dallas' three-game skid. Brand suffered a groin injury and Wright sprained his right ankle in the same contest. The Mavericks begin a stretch of three games in four nights against the Heat, who completed a 4-2 homestand Tuesday with a 103-92 triumph over Minnesota. Miami has won four of five after losing consecutive games for the first time this season.

TV: 9:30 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE HEAT (16-6, 11-11 ATS): Miami continued its strong fourth-quarter play in the win over the Timberwolves. The Heat never trailed in the final period, marking the 10th time this season and fourth time in the last five games they maintained the lead throughout the quarter. Superstar LeBron James is the first player to score at least 20 points in each of his team's first 22 games since Utah's Karl Malone in 1989-90. James is averaging 30.4 points in his last seven regular-season meetings with the Mavericks. The Heat are looking for their first three-game winning streak against the Mavericks since capturing 16 in a row from 1992-99.

ABOUT THE MAVERICKS (12-13, 12-13 ATS): Nowitzki is cautiously optimistic about his prospects of returning to action before the end of the calendar year. "This is the first day we're stopping, pushing off, moving, and we'll just see how (the knee) reacts," he said. "I'm gonna do that a couple of times and do some contact for a while, and maybe anytime after Christmas I'll be fine." Coach Rick Carlisle refuses to speculate on when Nowitzki will suit up. "We don't know when he's gonna play," Carlisle said. "When it happens, it will happen. We hope it's sooner than later, but we don't have a time yet."

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
* Heat are 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Dallas.
* Favorite is 3-1-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Road team is 15-5-2 ATS in the last 22 meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. The Mavericks have allowed fewer than 90 points only once this season.

2. The Heat are 22-29 overall in the all-time series and 10-15 at Dallas.

3. Dallas is 8-3 at home and has won three straight at American Airlines Center.

NBA
Short Sheet

Thursday, December 20

Oklahoma City at Minnesota, 7:05 ET TNT
Oklahoma City: 26-12 ATS away after playing as a road favorite
Minnesota: 13-2 Over vs. division opponents

Miami at Dallas, 9:35 ET TNT
Miami: 21-6 Under after making 50%+ of their three point shots
Dallas: 20-9 ATS off ATS losses in 2 of their last 3 games

Denver at Portland, 10:05 ET
Denver: 6-1 ATS off BB wins
Portland: 0-6 ATS off ATS wins in 2 of their last 3 games

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Thursday, December 20

Hot Teams
-- Thunder won its last 12 games (6-2 as AF).
-- Miami won four of its last five games (2-5 as AF).
-- Portland won its last three games, allowing 86 ppg (3-1 as HU). Nuggets won four of last five games (4-4 as AF, 3-1 in last four).

Cold Teams
-- Minnesota lost last two games, by 10-11 points; favorites are 8-1-1 vs spread in its home games (0-2 as home dog).
-- Mavericks lost three of last four games (two losses in OT; they're 8-3 SU at home, 1-1 as home dogs).

Totals
-- Six of last eight Minnesota games went over the total.
-- Last four Miami games stayed under the total.
-- Three of last four Portland games stayed under total; three of last four Denver games went over.

Back-to-backs
-- Thunder is 3-2 vs spread if they played night before.

Friday, December 21

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Orlando - 7:00 PM ET Toronto -3.5 500 POD
Toronto - Under 187.5 500

Atlanta - 7:00 PM ET Philadelphia +2 500
Philadelphia - Over 188 500

Milwaukee - 7:30 PM ET Boston -5.5 500 POD
Boston -

Chicago - 7:30 PM ET New York -6 500
New York - Under 187.5 500 Total of the Night

Washington - 7:30 PM ET Washington +6 500
Detroit - Over 185 500

Indiana - 7:30 PM ET Cleveland +4 500
Cleveland - Under 186.5 500

Dallas - 8:00 PM ET Memphis -10.5 500
Memphis - Over 189.5 500

New Orleans - 8:30 PM ET New Orleans +13.5 500
San Antonio - Over 196 500

Sacramento - 10:30 PM ET Sacramento +13.5 500
L.A. Clippers - Under 201.5 500

Charlotte - 10:30 PM ET Golden State -10.5 500
Golden State - Under 205 500

Knicks Have Anthony Back For Friday Matchup With Bulls



By: Michael Robinson | Thursday, December 20, 2012


The Knicks were without Carmelo Anthony in the first meeting with the Bulls.

Chicago Bulls at New York Knicks
NBA Betting Preview
Date: 12/21/2012 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: NA
(click for latest NBA odds)
Television: NBATV

Chicago Bulls: Chicago (14-10 straight-up, 9-15 against the spread) last played on Tuesday night, an impressive 100-89 win over Boston as 1½-point favorites. Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer led the way with 21 points apiece. The Bulls average just 92.8 points per game for the season (tied for 26th) while allowing 90.3 ppg (ranked second). That makes them the biggest "under" team in the league at 16-8. The "under" is also 7-0 in their last seven games playing on two days of rest. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s guys now hit the road for another tough test after playing in Memphis on Monday (80-71 defeat as 6½-point ‘dogs). They’re 6-4 SU and ATS away on the season.

New York Knicks: The Knicks (19-6 SU, 15-10 ATS) also got a win in their last game, 100-86 as 6-point home favorites over rival Brooklyn on Wednesday. Carmelo Anthony (ankle) was considered a game-time decision after missing the two prior contests, but he performed fine in scoring 31 points (12-of-22 from the field). New York is now 11-1 SU and 9-3 ATS at Madison Square Garden this year, with the only loss coming last Monday to Houston (109-96) with Anthony out. Note the last two Knicks games both went "under" the total, and the "over" was 6-0 in the team's previous six at MSG (averaging a big 111 ppg). They will likely look to start ramping the offense back up on Friday with Anthony back in the lineup. These teams have met just once this season, a 93-85 Chicago home win on Dec. 8 as 2½-point ‘dogs. Anthony (28 ppg, ranked second) didn’t play then either with a finger issue, and the offense really struggles when he’s out. The Bulls are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven games in the Big Apple.

NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, December 21

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ORLANDO (12 - 13) at TORONTO (8 - 19) - 12/21/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 5-2 against the spread versus ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
ORLANDO is 4-3 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ATLANTA (15 - 8) at PHILADELPHIA (12 - 14) - 12/21/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 5-2 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 5-2 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHICAGO (14 - 10) at NEW YORK (19 - 6) - 12/21/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 56-38 ATS (+14.2 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in road games on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 5-3 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-3 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MILWAUKEE (13 - 11) at BOSTON (13 - 12) - 12/21/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 14-27 ATS (-15.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 27-12 ATS (+13.8 Units) against Atlantic division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 20-40 ATS (-24.0 Units) after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 4-4 against the spread versus MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 7-2 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
7 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INDIANA (14 - 12) at CLEVELAND (5 - 22) - 12/21/2012, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 4-4 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 8-1 straight up against CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WASHINGTON (3 - 20) at DETROIT (7 - 21) - 12/21/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 74-95 ATS (-30.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 0-9 ATS (-9.9 Units) in road games on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 3-3 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 4-2 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DALLAS (12 - 13) at MEMPHIS (17 - 6) - 12/21/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 15-7 ATS (+7.3 Units) in all games this season.
MEMPHIS is 57-37 ATS (+16.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 15-7 ATS (+7.3 Units) first half of the season this season.
MEMPHIS is 36-20 ATS (+14.0 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) after allowing 85 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
MEMPHIS is 53-24 ATS (+26.6 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 271-216 ATS (+33.4 Units) as an underdog since 1996.
DALLAS is 103-74 ATS (+21.6 Units) in road games vs. division opponents since 1996.
DALLAS is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 5-2 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 5-2 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW ORLEANS (5 - 20) at SAN ANTONIO (19 - 8) - 12/21/2012, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 126-168 ATS (-58.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 66-37 ATS (+25.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 54-27 ATS (+24.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 34-13 ATS (+19.7 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 38-23 ATS (+12.7 Units) first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 32-11 ATS (+19.9 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 25-12 ATS (+11.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in road games on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in road games revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 5-4 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 7-2 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHARLOTTE (7 - 18) at GOLDEN STATE (17 - 9) - 12/21/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHARLOTTE is 32-58 ATS (-31.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 31-52 ATS (-26.2 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) on Friday nights over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 10-23 ATS (-15.3 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 20-48 ATS (-32.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 15-28 ATS (-15.8 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 18-36 ATS (-21.6 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
CHARLOTTE is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 2-2 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 2-2 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SACRAMENTO (8 - 17) at LA CLIPPERS (19 - 6) - 12/21/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SACRAMENTO is 38-52 ATS (-19.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SACRAMENTO is 18-38 ATS (-23.8 Units) first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
LA CLIPPERS are 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA CLIPPERS is 6-1 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
LA CLIPPERS is 7-1 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, December 21

Hot Teams
-- Raptors won last four games, covered last five (2-2 as HF). Orlando won its last four games (8-3-1 as AU).
-- Hawks won five of their last six road games (4-1 vs spread on road if spread is 5 or less points).
-- Bulls won six of their last eight games (2-3 as AU). New York won 10 of its last 12 games (8-0 as HF of 7 or less points).
-- Bucks won five of their last seven games (5-3 as AU).
-- Pacers won/covered four of their last five games (favorites are 11-4 vs spread in Indiana road games). Cavaliers lost last five games (covered one of the five-- 4-7 vs spread at home).
-- Memphis won/covered last three games (by 13-9-10 points; they are 8-3 as HF).
-- Warriors won 10 of their last 13 games (4-3 as HF).
-- Clippers won their last 11 games, covered seven of last eight (8-3 as a home favorite).

Cold Teams
-- 76ers lost last five games, all by 7+ points (5-9 vs spread at home).
-- Celtics lost three of their last four games (5-5-1 as HF).
-- Wizards lost last five games (4-1-1 vs spread in last six). Pistons lost their last six games (2-4 as HF).
-- Mavericks lost four of last five games (3-5 as AU of 5+ points).
-- Hornets lost their last nine games (8-4 as AU). Spurs lost four of last five games, but all four losses were on road (6-0 HF of 6+ points).
-- Charlotte lost last 13 games, covered two of last eight (4-6 as AU).
-- Kings lost five of their last six games (4-7 as road dog).

Totals
-- Six of last eight Orlando games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 5-0-1 in Philly's last six games.
-- 11 of last 13 Chicago games stayed under the total.
-- 10 of last 14 Milwaukee games stayed under the total.
-- Last three Cleveland games went over the total.
-- Five of last six Washington games stayed under.
-- Six of last seven Dallas games went over the total.
-- Eight of last 11 New Orleans road games went over.
-- Over is 7-3-1 in Charlotte's last eleven games.
-- Five of last six Clipper games stayed under the total.

Back-to-backs
-- Mavericks are 2-4 vs spread if they played the night before.

NBA

Friday, December 21

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the day: Bulls at Knicks
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The New York Knicks have received plenty of deserved praise for their hot start while the Chicago Bulls have quietly been lurking around the top of the Central Division, staking their claim as one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference even without Derrick Rose. The Bulls will try to gain some recognition when they visit the Knicks on Friday. Chicago beat New York at home on Dec. 8 and has won six of its last eight games overall.

The Knicks trounced the Brooklyn Nets at home on Wednesday to gain a leg up on the city rivalry while maintaining their spot as the top team in the East. Carmelo Anthony returned from a two-game absence and scored 31 points in the victory. Anthony sat out the 93-85 loss at the Bulls earlier this month due to a finger injury and New York struggled to find any offense while shooting 32.1 percent. Chicago has been taking a lot of teams out of their rhythm lately and ranks second in the league in points allowed (90.3).

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, CSCH (Chicago), MSG (New York), NBATV

ABOUT THE BULLS (14-10, 9-15 ATS): Chicago is still lacking a go-to-scorer with Rose on the shelf but has gotten strong play from the likes of Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer. Noah recorded his first career triple-double in a home win over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday and Boozer and Luol Deng each scored 21 points. The Bulls have gotten sparks on offense from Nate Robinson and Marco Belinelli as well, but still win with their defense. Chicago has allowed only one of its last 14 opponents to reach 100 points, and that was in a 108-104 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Dec. 7. Of course, they bounced back from that performance by stifling the Knicks. Deng and Belinelli scored 22 points apiece while Noah and Boozer each recorded double-doubles in that win.

ABOUT THE KNICKS (19-6, 15-10 ATS): With Anthony sidelined, Raymond Felton ended up as the focal point of the offense in Chicago and ended up taking 30 shots (connecting on nine). New York featured a more balanced attack earlier this week without Anthony but was glad to have its MVP candidate back on Wednesday. He went 12-of-22 from the field and did not appear limited in 36 minutes of a 100-86 triumph. The Knicks have gone 5-1 since that loss in Chicago, reaching the century mark in each victory. One benefit of Anthony’s recent absence was to Chris Copeland, who got the bulk of the playing time and proved he belonged. Back to the bench Wednesday, Copeland provided a spark with eight points and could be a nice complement to J.R. Smith on the second unit.

TRENDS:

* Home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Under is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings in New York.
* Bulls are 2-5 ATS in the last 7 meetings in New York.
* Underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. Anthony is averaging 26.1 points and 6.4 rebounds in 21 career games against the Bulls.

2. Robinson, who spent his first 4 1/2 seasons with the Knicks, hit a season-high five 3-pointers on Tuesday and is shooting 48 percent from beyond the arc in his last six games.

3. Smith has scored at least 15 points in each of the last seven games for New York.

NCAAB
Dunkel

BYU at Baylor
The Bears look to take advantage of a BYU team that is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 road games. Baylor is the pick (-7) according to Dunkel, which has the Bears favored by 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Baylor (-7). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21

Game 821-822: Fordham at Connecticut (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Fordham 50.673; Connecticut 64.470
Dunkel Line: Connecticut by 14
Vegas Line: Connecticut by 15 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Fordham (+15 1/2)

Game 823-824: Florida Atlantic at Indiana (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Florida Atlantic 46.800; Indiana 81.632
Dunkel Line: Indiana by 35; 141
Vegas Line: Indiana by 32 1/2; 145
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (-32 1/2); Under

Game 825-826: Pennsylvania at Delaware (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pennsylvania 49.318; Delaware 53.523
Dunkel Line: Delaware by 4
Vegas Line: Delaware by 10 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pennsylvania (+10 1/2)

Game 827-828: Bowling Green at South Florida (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Bowling Green 54.063; South Florida 65.419
Dunkel Line: South Florida by 11 1/2
Vegas Line: South Florida by 10
Dunkel Pick: South Florida (-10)

Game 829-830: UC-Santa Barbara at Wyoming (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: UC-Santa Barbara 53.367; Wyoming 70.579
Dunkel Line: Wyoming by 17
Vegas Line: Wyoming by 13 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Wyoming (-13 1/2)

Game 831-832: BYU at Baylor (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: BYU 61.493; Baylor 69.915
Dunkel Line: Baylor by 8 1/2; 146
Vegas Line: Baylor by 7; 151 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Baylor (-7); Under

Game 833-834: Stanford at Northwestern (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Stanford 66.337; Northwestern 64.507
Dunkel Line: Stanford by 2; 133
Vegas Line: Stanford by 3; 129
Dunkel Pick: Northwestern (+3); Over

Game 835-836: Vanderbilt vs. Middle Tennessee State (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Vanderbilt 58.011; Middle Tennessee State 66.718
Dunkel Line: Middle Tennessee State by 8 1/2; 124
Vegas Line: Middle Tennessee State by 7; 128
Dunkel Pick: Middle Tennessee State (-7); Under

Game 837-838: CS-Northridge at Utah (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: CS-Northridge 52.034; Utah 62.520
Dunkel Line: Utah by 10 1/2
Vegas Line: Utah by 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Utah (-7 1/2)

Game 839-840: Buffalo vs. Washington State (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 51.960; Washington State 62.061
Dunkel Line: Washington State by 10
Vegas Line: Washington State by 7
Dunkel Pick: Washington State (-7)

Game 841-842: Southern Illinois vs. Nicholls State (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Illinois 50.850; Nicholls State 40.075
Dunkel Line: Southern Illinois by 11
Vegas Line: Southern Illinois by 13 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Nicholls State (+13 1/2)

Game 843-844: UC Davis vs. Utah State (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: UC Davis 45.070; Utah State 58.909
Dunkel Line: Utah State by 14
Vegas Line: Utah State by 10
Dunkel Pick: Utah State (-10)

Game 845-846: SMU vs. Wagner (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: SMU 53.696; Wagner 53.094
Dunkel Line: SMU by 1
Vegas Line: SMU by 2
Dunkel Pick: Wagner (+2)

Game 847-848: Alcorn State at Santa Clara (11:15 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Alcorn State 40.778; Santa Clara 63.484
Dunkel Line: Santa Clara by 22 1/2
Vegas Line: Santa Clara by 21
Dunkel Pick: Santa Clara (-21)

Game 849-850: Southern Utah at Denver (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Utah 45.214; Denver 65.179
Dunkel Line: Denver by 20
Vegas Line: Denver by 19 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Denver (-19 1/2)

Game 851-852: Western Carolina at Tennessee (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Western Carolina 52.097; Tennessee 63.961
Dunkel Line: Tennessee by 12; 139
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 13 1/2; 134 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Western Carolina (+13 1/2); Over

Game 853-854: Niagara at Notre Dame (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Niagara 53.358; Notre Dame 67.472
Dunkel Line: Notre Dame by 14; 145
Vegas Line: Notre Dame by 16 1/2; 140 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Niagara (+16 1/2); Over

Game 855-856: Morehead State at North Dakota State (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Morehead State 49.238; North Dakota State 65.297
Dunkel Line: North Dakota State by 16
Vegas Line: North Dakota State by 13 1/2
Dunkel Pick: North Dakota State (-13 1/2)

Game 857-858: Northern Colorado at North Dakota (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Colorado 45.383; North Dakota 45.686
Dunkel Line: Even
Vegas Line: North Dakota by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Northern Colorado (+2 1/2)

Game 859-860: Northern Arizona at Colorado (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Arizona 45.513; Colorado 65.907
Dunkel Line: Colorado by 20 1/2
Vegas Line: Colorado by 18
Dunkel Pick: Colorado (-18)

Game 861-862: Montana at Sacramento State (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Montana 52.365; Sacramento State 50.909
Dunkel Line: Montana by 1 1/2
Vegas Line: Montana by 4
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento State (+4)

NBA
Short Sheet

Friday, December 21

Orlando at Toronto, 7:05 ET
Orlando: 5-17 ATS off a division win
Toronto: 23-11 Under off BB Overs

Atlanta at Philadelphia, 7:05 ET
Atlanta: 15-2 Under off 3+ ATS losses
Philadelphia: 2-9 ATS after playing as an underdog

Chicago at New York, 7:35 ET NBATV
Chicago: 11-2 Under as a road underdog
New York: 9-1 ATS off an Under

Milwaukee at Boston, 7:35 ET
Milwaukee: 27-12 ATS vs. Atlantic Division opponents
Boston: 20-40 ATS off a win by 10+ points

Indiana at Cleveland, 7:35 ET
Indiana: 6-1 Over after winning 3 of their last 4 games
Cleveland: 9-26 ATS revenging a road loss by 10+ points

Washington at Detroit, 7:35 ET
Washington: 0-9 ATS away on Friday nights
Detroit: 24-11 Over as a home favorite

Dallas at Memphis, 8:05 ET
Dallas: 13-4 ATS off a loss by 15+ points
Memphis: 8-21 ATS as a favorite of 10+ points

New Orleans at San Antonio, 8:35 ET
New Orleans: 34-17 Over away after scoring 80 points or les
San Antonio: 10-1 ATS playing with two days rest

Charlotte at Golden State, 10:35 ET
Charlotte: 6-14 ATS after playing as an underdog
Golden State: 11-2 ATS off BB ATS losses

Sacramento at LA Clippers, 10:35 ET
Sacramento: 18-38 ATS in the first half of the season
LA Clippers: 10-2 ATS off 3+ wins

Saturday, December 22

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Detroit - 7:00 PM ET Detroit -1 500
Washington - Under 185 500

Chicago - 7:00 PM ET Chicago +3.5 500
Atlanta - Over 184.5 500

Utah - 7:30 PM ET Utah +7.5 500 POD
Miami - Over 198 500

Indiana - 8:00 PM ET New Orleans +3.5 500
New Orleans - Under 179 500

Memphis - 8:00 PM ET Houston -1 500 POD
Houston - Under 197.5 500

Cleveland - 8:30 PM ET Milwaukee -8 500
Milwaukee - Over 196 500

Charlotte - 9:00 PM ET Charlotte +15.5 500
Denver - Over 210.5 500

Phoenix - 10:00 PM ET Portland -3.5 500 POD
Portland - Under 196 500

L.A. Lakers - 10:30 PM ET Golden State +1.5 500
Golden State - Over 213 500