TORONTO (-10.5) over Indiana -- I'm not always John Hollinger's biggest booster, but he did point out in a recent column that eight of the Raps' last ten wins have come by 17 points or more. We'll take our chances this time around.
ATLANTA (-6.5) over New York -- The Hawks are in the midst of what should be a concerted push for the playoffs with Mike Bibby on board. The Knicks don't put together consecutive competitive efforts with regularity.
BOSTON (-16.5) over Charlotte -- The 'Cats are very banged up. Gerald Wallace is concussed for the fourth time in four years, and Jason Richardson may sit with an eye injury. The Celts will remember their poorly played loss to the 'Cats at home earlier in the season.
CLEVELAND (-9.5) over Minnesota -- After consecutive frustrating losses, the Cavs should put the bop down on a very bad Minnesota team.
Utah over NEW ORLEANS (-4.5) -- The Jazz have pounded the Hornets twice in as many meetings this season. Though both of the priors came in Utah, they should manage to hang around on the road in this one as well.
Washington over CHICAGO (-5.5) -- No rush to give points with the Bulls.
HOUSTON (-13.5) over Memphis -- The opponent here is poor enough such that the Rockets should be able to continue riding their post-Yao adrenaline...as well as a 13-game winning streak.
Sacramento over DALLAS (-10.5) -- The Kings are competitive, and the Mavs play the tail end of a back-to-back the night after a draining, down-to-the-wire loss in San Antonio. Could be a sluggish start for Dallas.
DENVER (-13.5) over LA Clippers -- The Clippers are banged up and not very good. Denver may continue taking out the anger that led the Nugs to a 42-point victory in Seattle on Wednesday.
GOLDEN STATE (-7.5) over Philadelphia -- A West Coast trip could put a real crimp in the Sixers' postseason plans. The Warriors will run them out.
LA Lakers (-8.5) over PORTLAND -- Two teams going in opposite directions. The Lake Show keeps rollin'.
SEATTLE (-0.5) over Miami -- Back-to-backs out West aren't generally a prescription for 2-26 ruts. The Heat are really bad.
Last night: 1-2
Season: 441-416
29 February 2008
28 February 2008
The Picksix: Are the Bucks surging?
Milwaukee over NEW JERSEY (-2.5) -- The Bucks have come out of the break winning three of four, all over teams with winning records (Detroit, Denver, Cleveland). The Nets are confused, and Devin Harris' status remains uncertain.
SAN ANTONIO (-5.5) over Dallas -- The Mavs are still jelling with their new addition, and the Spurs are suddenly hot.
LA LAKERS (-15.5) over Miami -- Sure, it's a lot of points, and they only beat the Sonics by 13 on Tuesday. But these Lakers are playing inspired basketball right now, and we'll take our chances that the Heat won't break out a second consecutive competent performance.
Last night: 3-7
Season: 440-414
SAN ANTONIO (-5.5) over Dallas -- The Mavs are still jelling with their new addition, and the Spurs are suddenly hot.
LA LAKERS (-15.5) over Miami -- Sure, it's a lot of points, and they only beat the Sonics by 13 on Tuesday. But these Lakers are playing inspired basketball right now, and we'll take our chances that the Heat won't break out a second consecutive competent performance.
Last night: 3-7
Season: 440-414
27 February 2008
The Picksix: Dog day
ATLANTA (-2.5) over Sacramento -- The Kings finish a back-to-back coming off a loss to the Heat. Demoralizing indeed.
Orlando (-1.5) over PHILADELPHIA -- The Magic are quite a bit better than the Sixers. More than a point for sure.
Chicago over INDIANA (-3.5) -- The Bulls are revamped. The Pacers are mediocre. We'll pass on giving the points.
Minnesota over TORONTO (-13.5) -- The Raps' haven't reached "giving two touchdowns status" over anyone yet.
BOSTON (-7.5) over Cleveland -- Home-cooking will do the Celts well in their return from a trying trip out West. Some revenge for a one-point loss in Cleveland three weeks ago will be in order as well.
Charlotte over NEW YORK (-5.5) -- The Knicks haven't earned this respect from the oddsmakers, no matter what the injury situation is for Charlotte.
Phoenix over NEW ORLEANS (-4.5) -- The Hornets have lost three in a row, and the Suns will be looking to avenge two hard-fought losses to the Stingers earlier in the year, including a 132-130 overtime decision that ended with a Peja Stojakovic buzzer-beater.
Detroit over UTAH (-2.5) -- The Pistons are on another level right now, and currently they seem to be invested in showing the troubled Celtics that they won't succumb to a difficult stretch out West. The Jazz come off a loss to the Wolves that involved a 39-point fourth quarter for one of the league's worst teams.
SEATTLE over Denver (-7.5) -- The Sonics continue to claw hard. With the exception of the debacle against the Lakers this weekend, they haven't been blown out much as of late.
Portland over LA CLIPPERS (-3.5) -- The Clips are likely once more to be missing four of their five top players due to injuries. Thanks but no thanks.
Last night: 3-5
Season: 437-407
Orlando (-1.5) over PHILADELPHIA -- The Magic are quite a bit better than the Sixers. More than a point for sure.
Chicago over INDIANA (-3.5) -- The Bulls are revamped. The Pacers are mediocre. We'll pass on giving the points.
Minnesota over TORONTO (-13.5) -- The Raps' haven't reached "giving two touchdowns status" over anyone yet.
BOSTON (-7.5) over Cleveland -- Home-cooking will do the Celts well in their return from a trying trip out West. Some revenge for a one-point loss in Cleveland three weeks ago will be in order as well.
Charlotte over NEW YORK (-5.5) -- The Knicks haven't earned this respect from the oddsmakers, no matter what the injury situation is for Charlotte.
Phoenix over NEW ORLEANS (-4.5) -- The Hornets have lost three in a row, and the Suns will be looking to avenge two hard-fought losses to the Stingers earlier in the year, including a 132-130 overtime decision that ended with a Peja Stojakovic buzzer-beater.
Detroit over UTAH (-2.5) -- The Pistons are on another level right now, and currently they seem to be invested in showing the troubled Celtics that they won't succumb to a difficult stretch out West. The Jazz come off a loss to the Wolves that involved a 39-point fourth quarter for one of the league's worst teams.
SEATTLE over Denver (-7.5) -- The Sonics continue to claw hard. With the exception of the debacle against the Lakers this weekend, they haven't been blown out much as of late.
Portland over LA CLIPPERS (-3.5) -- The Clips are likely once more to be missing four of their five top players due to injuries. Thanks but no thanks.
Last night: 3-5
Season: 437-407
26 February 2008
UPDATE: Yao done
Yao Ming is being reported as likely done for the season with a stress fracture in his foot (see ESPN). We'll take Washington with the points tonight. More on this to come later.
The Picksix: Bringing the pain in Houston and La La Land
Orlando (-4.5) over NEW JERSEY -- Despite Marcus Williams playing well in the absence of Devin Harris (still feels really weird to say that), the Nets won't have enough answers for Dwight et al.
Sacramento (-2.5) over MIAMI -- One win in 27 games for the Heat. Sure, tonight could be the night, that changes, but we'll wait until it does before we hop on board.
Phoenix (-8.5) over MEMPHIS -- The Suns can't have been too pleased by the 30-point beat-down at the hands of the Pistons on Sunday. The Grizz shouldn't cause the same sort of trouble.
Cleveland (-3.5) over MILWAUKEE -- The Bucks are playign decent ball lately, but the LeBrons should still be riding the temporary wave of simply having made a move and brought in some new blood.
Utah (-7.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Jazz haven't been overly consistent of late, but the Wolves should help them out of that funk.
HOUSTON (-12.5) over Washington -- The league's hottest team bops a Washington team primed for a letdown after pulling out a nail-biter in New Orleans a night ago.
Seattle over GOLDEN STATE (-11.5) -- Too many points to give with an inconsistent Warriors team against a Sonics team that has been hanging in as of late.
LA LAKERS (-15.5) over Portland -- It's very difficult to pick against these guys right now.
Last night: 3-3
Season: 434-402
Sacramento (-2.5) over MIAMI -- One win in 27 games for the Heat. Sure, tonight could be the night, that changes, but we'll wait until it does before we hop on board.
Phoenix (-8.5) over MEMPHIS -- The Suns can't have been too pleased by the 30-point beat-down at the hands of the Pistons on Sunday. The Grizz shouldn't cause the same sort of trouble.
Cleveland (-3.5) over MILWAUKEE -- The Bucks are playign decent ball lately, but the LeBrons should still be riding the temporary wave of simply having made a move and brought in some new blood.
Utah (-7.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Jazz haven't been overly consistent of late, but the Wolves should help them out of that funk.
HOUSTON (-12.5) over Washington -- The league's hottest team bops a Washington team primed for a letdown after pulling out a nail-biter in New Orleans a night ago.
Seattle over GOLDEN STATE (-11.5) -- Too many points to give with an inconsistent Warriors team against a Sonics team that has been hanging in as of late.
LA LAKERS (-15.5) over Portland -- It's very difficult to pick against these guys right now.
Last night: 3-3
Season: 434-402
24 February 2008
The Picksix: DEEE-troit basketball!
Toronto (-2.5) over INDIANA -- A very good basketball team can general beat a very mediocre basketball team, even on the road.
NEW ORLEANS (-10.5) over Washington -- After poorly played losses to Houston and San Antonio this weekend, the Hornets will take out their anger in a big way.
Atlanta over SAN ANTONIO (-13.5) -- After getting off to a slow start on a long road trip, the Hawks have now beaten the Warriors and hung tight with the Jazz in their last two. This line is simply too high.
DALLAS (-10.5) over Chicago -- Back-to-backs in the Texas triangle tend to be real killers, especially for teams from the Eastern Conference. The Bulls hung tight with the Rockets for two and a half quarters last night and then fell apart. They likely won't make it that far this time around.
Detroit over DENVER (-2.5) -- The Nuggets are playing very shaky basketball all of a sudden. The Pistons looked excellent in a 30-point romp of the Suns on Sunday afternoon and should be well-rested after playing their reserves for most of the second half.
Boston (-8.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- A big second half propelled the Celts to their first victory since the All-Star break last night in Portland. The good times should keep rolling against a poor Clips team.
Last night: 6-2
Season: 431-399
NEW ORLEANS (-10.5) over Washington -- After poorly played losses to Houston and San Antonio this weekend, the Hornets will take out their anger in a big way.
Atlanta over SAN ANTONIO (-13.5) -- After getting off to a slow start on a long road trip, the Hawks have now beaten the Warriors and hung tight with the Jazz in their last two. This line is simply too high.
DALLAS (-10.5) over Chicago -- Back-to-backs in the Texas triangle tend to be real killers, especially for teams from the Eastern Conference. The Bulls hung tight with the Rockets for two and a half quarters last night and then fell apart. They likely won't make it that far this time around.
Detroit over DENVER (-2.5) -- The Nuggets are playing very shaky basketball all of a sudden. The Pistons looked excellent in a 30-point romp of the Suns on Sunday afternoon and should be well-rested after playing their reserves for most of the second half.
Boston (-8.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- A big second half propelled the Celts to their first victory since the All-Star break last night in Portland. The good times should keep rolling against a poor Clips team.
Last night: 6-2
Season: 431-399
The Picksix: Cavs not winning big of late
PHOENIX (-2.5) over Detroit -- The (temporary?) energy wave brought forth by Shaq's entrance to the lineup should at least last through the week.
Boston (-4.5) over PORTLAND -- The Celts are in the midst of a bad run in which they have lost to three excellent teams. The Blazers just garnered an ugly home-and-home split with the Sonics. They are fading fast.
Memphis over CLEVELAND (-12.5) -- The Cavs have won by a double-digit margin exactly one time in their last 20 games. No go.
TORONTO (-11.5) over New York -- The Raps should be rather peeved about allowing Jamal Crawford and Z-Bo to dominate them on Friday.
ORLANDO (-6.5) over Sacramento -- Maybe the Magic have woken up courtesy of SVG tongue-lashings.
Dallas (-7.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Mavs seemed to get it together in Memphis on Friday. Beating a second really bad team on the road by more than a few may be doable after all.
HOUSTON (-10.5) over Chicago -- The only reason not to like the Rockets here is with relation to some sort of letdown effect after bopping the Stingers in New Orleans on Friday. We have no fear.
LA Lakers (-8.5) over SEATTLE -- The Lakers are playing super-duper good basketball right now.
Last night: 3-4
Season: 425-397
Boston (-4.5) over PORTLAND -- The Celts are in the midst of a bad run in which they have lost to three excellent teams. The Blazers just garnered an ugly home-and-home split with the Sonics. They are fading fast.
Memphis over CLEVELAND (-12.5) -- The Cavs have won by a double-digit margin exactly one time in their last 20 games. No go.
TORONTO (-11.5) over New York -- The Raps should be rather peeved about allowing Jamal Crawford and Z-Bo to dominate them on Friday.
ORLANDO (-6.5) over Sacramento -- Maybe the Magic have woken up courtesy of SVG tongue-lashings.
Dallas (-7.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Mavs seemed to get it together in Memphis on Friday. Beating a second really bad team on the road by more than a few may be doable after all.
HOUSTON (-10.5) over Chicago -- The only reason not to like the Rockets here is with relation to some sort of letdown effect after bopping the Stingers in New Orleans on Friday. We have no fear.
LA Lakers (-8.5) over SEATTLE -- The Lakers are playing super-duper good basketball right now.
Last night: 3-4
Season: 425-397
23 February 2008
The Picksix: Still no love for the Nets
WASHINGTON (-4.5) over Charlotte -- The already troubled 'Cats lost Gerald Wallace again last night, this time to a grade three concussion. We'll take a pass.
If the game doesn't come down to a last shot, Eddie Jordan won't be able to decide to let DeShawn Stevenson take it.
Philadelphia over MIAMI (-0.5) -- Call us crazy, but teams that win once in 26 tries don't appeal to us in even-line games.
Indiana over NEW JERSEY (-2.5) -- Not a chance of us giving points with the continuously depleted Nets.
Denver (-3.5) over MILWAUKEE -- There is a far better chance of the Nugs waking up after allowing 135 points in Chicago than there is the Bucks doing the same after a 27-point bopping in Detroit.
New Orleans over SAN ANTONIO (-5.5) -- The blowout loss to the Rockets last night dropped the Hornets into a tie with the Suns for the top spot in the West. They gained confidence earlier in the year with a victory in San Antonio, and they will be looking to gain some ground back tonight.
UTAH (-12.5) over Atlanta -- The Hawks will play their fourth game in five nights out West as the second half of a back-to-back on the heels of a game against the league's second fastest-paced team. We have no reason to go against the Jazz at home.
LA Lakers (-10.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- Regardless of what color the floor is at Staples, the Lakers are a really good basketball team. This one will be ugly.
Last night: 4-9
Season: 422-393
If the game doesn't come down to a last shot, Eddie Jordan won't be able to decide to let DeShawn Stevenson take it.
Philadelphia over MIAMI (-0.5) -- Call us crazy, but teams that win once in 26 tries don't appeal to us in even-line games.
Indiana over NEW JERSEY (-2.5) -- Not a chance of us giving points with the continuously depleted Nets.
Denver (-3.5) over MILWAUKEE -- There is a far better chance of the Nugs waking up after allowing 135 points in Chicago than there is the Bucks doing the same after a 27-point bopping in Detroit.
New Orleans over SAN ANTONIO (-5.5) -- The blowout loss to the Rockets last night dropped the Hornets into a tie with the Suns for the top spot in the West. They gained confidence earlier in the year with a victory in San Antonio, and they will be looking to gain some ground back tonight.
UTAH (-12.5) over Atlanta -- The Hawks will play their fourth game in five nights out West as the second half of a back-to-back on the heels of a game against the league's second fastest-paced team. We have no reason to go against the Jazz at home.
LA Lakers (-10.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- Regardless of what color the floor is at Staples, the Lakers are a really good basketball team. This one will be ugly.
Last night: 4-9
Season: 422-393
22 February 2008
The Picksix: Laying off the depleted
Sacramento (-1.5) over CHARLOTTE -- Pack it in, 'Cats. This Kings continue to fight nobly for a very unlikely cause.
Philadelphia over ORLANDO (-7.5) -- The Magic got upset about Stan Van Gundy's most recent tirade, won a game or two before the All-Star break and then smacked the Pistons on Tuesday. Predictably, this was followed by a major letdown the next night in Toronto, and knowing this Magic team, it's likely to be topped off with a lackluster victory at home.
Fun fact: On back-to-back nights, the Sixers lost by double-digits in Minnesota and then smacked the Knicks by 40.
INDIANA (-5.5) over New Jersey -- How the Nets pulled out a win with no Jason Kidd and no Devin Harris while hosting Chicago on Wednesday is beyond me. So is the idea that they will be able to replicate this success.
Toronto (-4.5) over NEW YORK -- The Knicks returned to form with the 40-point pummeling they received on Wednesday. The Raps should be stoked with the big Primoz Brezec addition. Well, maybe not, but the Knicks are still terrible.
Houston over NEW ORLEANS (-4.5) -- Buzz saw plus points.
MEMPHIS over Dallas (-8.5) -- The Mavs have lost six straight on the road, thus making the line too high for our liking.
Denver (-2.5) over CHICAGO -- See: overtime loss to point guard-free Nets as referenced above. No-go on Hicag.
Washington over CLEVELAND (-7.5) -- Whether or not the Cavs will have their four new acquisitions remains in doubt, and we could do without giving points with a squad that just lost six players (and lost sixty percent of its starting lineup) and might not have any of what it got back in return this evening.
Utah (-4.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- Not enough points for us to even consider this. The Jazz are a lot better.
Boston over PHOENIX (-3.5) -- Sooner or later, the Celts will re-find the form they had reached prior to the break. Might as well be sooner.
GOLDEN STATE (-8.5) over Atlanta -- Is it me, or does Monta Ellis shoot close to 60 percent from the field every night? The Hawks plus Mike Bibby have yet to show any real luster.
Portland (-0.5) over SEATTLE -- The Blazers survived a poor second half to hold on and beat Seattle on Thursday at home. Nate McMillan won't be satisfied and will work this team for the full 48 minutes tonight.
Last night: 2-1
Season: 418-384
Philadelphia over ORLANDO (-7.5) -- The Magic got upset about Stan Van Gundy's most recent tirade, won a game or two before the All-Star break and then smacked the Pistons on Tuesday. Predictably, this was followed by a major letdown the next night in Toronto, and knowing this Magic team, it's likely to be topped off with a lackluster victory at home.
Fun fact: On back-to-back nights, the Sixers lost by double-digits in Minnesota and then smacked the Knicks by 40.
INDIANA (-5.5) over New Jersey -- How the Nets pulled out a win with no Jason Kidd and no Devin Harris while hosting Chicago on Wednesday is beyond me. So is the idea that they will be able to replicate this success.
Toronto (-4.5) over NEW YORK -- The Knicks returned to form with the 40-point pummeling they received on Wednesday. The Raps should be stoked with the big Primoz Brezec addition. Well, maybe not, but the Knicks are still terrible.
Houston over NEW ORLEANS (-4.5) -- Buzz saw plus points.
MEMPHIS over Dallas (-8.5) -- The Mavs have lost six straight on the road, thus making the line too high for our liking.
Denver (-2.5) over CHICAGO -- See: overtime loss to point guard-free Nets as referenced above. No-go on Hicag.
Washington over CLEVELAND (-7.5) -- Whether or not the Cavs will have their four new acquisitions remains in doubt, and we could do without giving points with a squad that just lost six players (and lost sixty percent of its starting lineup) and might not have any of what it got back in return this evening.
Utah (-4.5) over LA CLIPPERS -- Not enough points for us to even consider this. The Jazz are a lot better.
Boston over PHOENIX (-3.5) -- Sooner or later, the Celts will re-find the form they had reached prior to the break. Might as well be sooner.
GOLDEN STATE (-8.5) over Atlanta -- Is it me, or does Monta Ellis shoot close to 60 percent from the field every night? The Hawks plus Mike Bibby have yet to show any real luster.
Portland (-0.5) over SEATTLE -- The Blazers survived a poor second half to hold on and beat Seattle on Thursday at home. Nate McMillan won't be satisfied and will work this team for the full 48 minutes tonight.
Last night: 2-1
Season: 418-384
21 February 2008
The Picksix: Blazers running cold
HOUSTON (-11.5) over Miami -- Buzz saw. Again. Nine straight, going for ten. Miami has won one of 25.
San Antonio (-8.5) over MINNESOTA -- Perhaps the Spurs will be buoyed by their new acquisition.
Seattle over PORTLAND (-9.5) -- Can't give this many points with Portland at this point. It's been a while since they were hot.
Last night: 4-6
Season: 416-383
San Antonio (-8.5) over MINNESOTA -- Perhaps the Spurs will be buoyed by their new acquisition.
Seattle over PORTLAND (-9.5) -- Can't give this many points with Portland at this point. It's been a while since they were hot.
Last night: 4-6
Season: 416-383
20 February 2008
The Picksix: Cavs to rebound in Indy
Cleveland (-2.5) over INDIANA -- The Rockets are very good. That would be why the Cavs have lost to them twice in the last couple of weeks. They will come out a whole lot stronger in Indianapolis tonight.
Orlando over TORONTO (-3.5) -- It looks like Stan Van Gundy got in his players' heads with his latest tirade a week ago, as the Magic have played inspired basketball since. That continued with a decisive victory in Detroit last night.
PHILADELPHIA (-6.5) over New York -- Consecutive solid efforts from the 'Bockers? We'll believe it when we see it.
Chicago over NEW JERSEY (-0.5) -- We shy away from teams with no point guards (Jason Kidd gone, Devin Harris hurt) and no crowds at home.
Detroit (-6.5) over MILWAUKEE -- The Pistons won't be thrilled about getting shellacked by the Magic at home last night.
Dallas over NEW ORLEANS (-5.5) -- The addition of Jason Kidd should give the Mavs a spark, or at least enough of one to keep this one close.
LA Lakers over PHOENIX (-4.5) -- How the Suns will jell with Shaq in town is anyone's guess. That the Lakers have caused the Suns loads of trouble in their last few regular season contests is fact.
Atlanta over SACRAMENTO (-4.5) -- Clearly, Mike Bibby didn't wake the Hawks up last night. Perhaps a quick return to Sacto will wake him up.
LA CLIPPERS (-6.5) over Memphis -- The Clips are about as healthy as they can be sans long term injury victims Brand and Livingston. This means they should be markedly better than the Grizz.
Boston over GOLDEN STATE (-0.5) -- Here's guessing that KG spent Tuesday night in Denver shaking off the rest and will be ready to go for real on Wednesday night in Oaktown.
Last night: 3-7
Season: 412-377
Orlando over TORONTO (-3.5) -- It looks like Stan Van Gundy got in his players' heads with his latest tirade a week ago, as the Magic have played inspired basketball since. That continued with a decisive victory in Detroit last night.
PHILADELPHIA (-6.5) over New York -- Consecutive solid efforts from the 'Bockers? We'll believe it when we see it.
Chicago over NEW JERSEY (-0.5) -- We shy away from teams with no point guards (Jason Kidd gone, Devin Harris hurt) and no crowds at home.
Detroit (-6.5) over MILWAUKEE -- The Pistons won't be thrilled about getting shellacked by the Magic at home last night.
Dallas over NEW ORLEANS (-5.5) -- The addition of Jason Kidd should give the Mavs a spark, or at least enough of one to keep this one close.
LA Lakers over PHOENIX (-4.5) -- How the Suns will jell with Shaq in town is anyone's guess. That the Lakers have caused the Suns loads of trouble in their last few regular season contests is fact.
Atlanta over SACRAMENTO (-4.5) -- Clearly, Mike Bibby didn't wake the Hawks up last night. Perhaps a quick return to Sacto will wake him up.
LA CLIPPERS (-6.5) over Memphis -- The Clips are about as healthy as they can be sans long term injury victims Brand and Livingston. This means they should be markedly better than the Grizz.
Boston over GOLDEN STATE (-0.5) -- Here's guessing that KG spent Tuesday night in Denver shaking off the rest and will be ready to go for real on Wednesday night in Oaktown.
Last night: 3-7
Season: 412-377
19 February 2008
The Picksix: Welcome back, folks
Houston over CLEVELAND (-1.5) -- Buzz saw. The Rockets' second-ranked defense (interesting how some coaching changes turn out, huh?) is tearing up the league right now.
WASHINGTON (-4.5) over New York -- Having a hard time thinking of any reason to take the Knicks. Not a very good basketball team. Not enough points.
DETROIT (-7.5) over Orlando -- The Pistons will look to gain ground on East-leading Boston as the C's embark on a big-time West Coast trip coming out of the break.
Philadelphia (-1.5) over MINNESOTA -- As of now, Philly is actually in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. These are the type of games the Sixers will have to win if they wish to stay there.
Charlotte over SAN ANTONIO (-12.5) -- Too many points.
Boston over DENVER (-0.5) -- The team with the league's top record gets KG back and doesn't have to give points? Boo yah.
UTAH (-6.5) over Golden State -- The Jazz chop folks up at home, where they are 22-3.
Memphis over SEATTLE (-5.5)
Sacramento over PORTLAND (-4.5)
Giving much of anything with either of these teams right now makes us queasy.
Atlanta over LA LAKERS (-10.5) -- One would hope that the onset of the Mike Bibby Era in Atlanta will at least give the Hawks enough of a burst to help them keep this one in single digits.
Thursday: 0-2
Season: 409-370
WASHINGTON (-4.5) over New York -- Having a hard time thinking of any reason to take the Knicks. Not a very good basketball team. Not enough points.
DETROIT (-7.5) over Orlando -- The Pistons will look to gain ground on East-leading Boston as the C's embark on a big-time West Coast trip coming out of the break.
Philadelphia (-1.5) over MINNESOTA -- As of now, Philly is actually in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. These are the type of games the Sixers will have to win if they wish to stay there.
Charlotte over SAN ANTONIO (-12.5) -- Too many points.
Boston over DENVER (-0.5) -- The team with the league's top record gets KG back and doesn't have to give points? Boo yah.
UTAH (-6.5) over Golden State -- The Jazz chop folks up at home, where they are 22-3.
Memphis over SEATTLE (-5.5)
Sacramento over PORTLAND (-4.5)
Giving much of anything with either of these teams right now makes us queasy.
Atlanta over LA LAKERS (-10.5) -- One would hope that the onset of the Mike Bibby Era in Atlanta will at least give the Hawks enough of a burst to help them keep this one in single digits.
Thursday: 0-2
Season: 409-370
17 February 2008
The Picksix: No East Coast biases here
WEST (-7.5) over East -- Unless LeBron decides to do the antithesis of mailing this one in, the West just has a lot more weapons and will score quite a few more points.
Here's hoping Doc has the good sense to limit minutes for Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. The beloved C's don't need any more injuries.
Here's hoping Doc has the good sense to limit minutes for Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. The beloved C's don't need any more injuries.
15 February 2008
The Picksix: Celtic love in the rookie challenge
SOPHOMORES over Rookies (-plenty) -- The sophs have Raj. The rooks don't have the Infuriated Infant. No biases to be found here.
Last night: 0-2
Season: 409-370
Last night: 0-2
Season: 409-370
14 February 2008
The Picksix: 'Dogs before the break
Miami over CHICAGO (-6.5) -- Miami should be able to ride the wave of the "high-energy close loss" once more as Shawn Marion continues to revel in his new prominence. What a sad story.
Dallas over PHOENIX (-7.5) -- The Suns remain shorthanded sans Shaquille O'Neal and will be coming off a down-to-the-wire two-point loss in Golden State that was paced at full throttle all night.
Last night: 8-6
Season: 409-368
Dallas over PHOENIX (-7.5) -- The Suns remain shorthanded sans Shaquille O'Neal and will be coming off a down-to-the-wire two-point loss in Golden State that was paced at full throttle all night.
Last night: 8-6
Season: 409-368
13 February 2008
UPDATE: Rumors leave Nets looking cold
With rumors swirling of an impending departure for Jason Kidd, we're wondering if the Nets are going to be a bit shorthanded in Toronto tonight. Raps (-8.5) it is.
12 February 2008
The Picksix: Lots of running in G-State
PHILADELPHIA (-8.5) over Memphis -- Consecutive displays of competency seem doubtful for the Grizz.
San Antonio (-2.5) over CLEVELAND -- The Cavs are banged up and don't have a point guard who will make the Spurs pay for the lack of Tony Parker.
New Jersey over TORONTO (-8.5) -- The Raps have been a model of inconsistency all season. The Nets should be able to hang around just long enough to keep it close.
Atlanta over CHARLOTTE (-0.5) -- No Gerald Wallace once more for the 'Cats, who haven't been particularly competitive of late.
Denver over ORLANDO (-4.5) -- As of yet, the Magic haven't demonstrated that they respond particularly well to butt-kickings from Stan Van Gundy. There could be some residual effects of Van Gundy's late-game benching and post-game tongue-lashing of Dwight Howard on Monday.
BOSTON (-10.5) over New York -- If Paul Pierce can avoid ejection this time around, the KG-less C's could well keep on rolling once more against the 'Bockers.
DETROIT (-12.5) over Indiana -- The Pistons won't be thrilled about a too-close victory over the Hawks on Tuesday.
New Orleans (-4.5) over MILWAUKEE -- CP3 went for 25 points, 14 assists and 1 turnover last night in Hicag. He was one of three 20-point scorers for the Stingers. These guys are really good. The Bucks aren't.
LA Lakers (-9.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Wolves play the tail end of a back-to-back against a Lakers team still riding the wave of the Gasol trade.
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Sacramento -- Buzz saw.
Portland over DALLAS (-7.5) -- After consecutive uninspired losses in Jersey and Philly, we'll lay off the Mavs for a night.
GOLDEN STATE (-0.5) over Phoenix -- The Suns remain shorthanded with Marion gone and Shaq not suited up. The Dubs should simply be able to out-run them in Oaktown.
Utah (-6.5) over SEATTLE -- Andrei Kirilenko trade rumors aren't good enough reasons to pick against the Jazz right now. We can't think of any others.
Washington over LA CLIPPERS (-4.5) -- In the words of Money from the Parking Lot's Bill Powell, "The Clippers are favored?" Yeah, he's a Clippers blogger.
Last night: 4-2
Season: 401-362
San Antonio (-2.5) over CLEVELAND -- The Cavs are banged up and don't have a point guard who will make the Spurs pay for the lack of Tony Parker.
New Jersey over TORONTO (-8.5) -- The Raps have been a model of inconsistency all season. The Nets should be able to hang around just long enough to keep it close.
Atlanta over CHARLOTTE (-0.5) -- No Gerald Wallace once more for the 'Cats, who haven't been particularly competitive of late.
Denver over ORLANDO (-4.5) -- As of yet, the Magic haven't demonstrated that they respond particularly well to butt-kickings from Stan Van Gundy. There could be some residual effects of Van Gundy's late-game benching and post-game tongue-lashing of Dwight Howard on Monday.
BOSTON (-10.5) over New York -- If Paul Pierce can avoid ejection this time around, the KG-less C's could well keep on rolling once more against the 'Bockers.
DETROIT (-12.5) over Indiana -- The Pistons won't be thrilled about a too-close victory over the Hawks on Tuesday.
New Orleans (-4.5) over MILWAUKEE -- CP3 went for 25 points, 14 assists and 1 turnover last night in Hicag. He was one of three 20-point scorers for the Stingers. These guys are really good. The Bucks aren't.
LA Lakers (-9.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Wolves play the tail end of a back-to-back against a Lakers team still riding the wave of the Gasol trade.
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Sacramento -- Buzz saw.
Portland over DALLAS (-7.5) -- After consecutive uninspired losses in Jersey and Philly, we'll lay off the Mavs for a night.
GOLDEN STATE (-0.5) over Phoenix -- The Suns remain shorthanded with Marion gone and Shaq not suited up. The Dubs should simply be able to out-run them in Oaktown.
Utah (-6.5) over SEATTLE -- Andrei Kirilenko trade rumors aren't good enough reasons to pick against the Jazz right now. We can't think of any others.
Washington over LA CLIPPERS (-4.5) -- In the words of Money from the Parking Lot's Bill Powell, "The Clippers are favored?" Yeah, he's a Clippers blogger.
Last night: 4-2
Season: 401-362
The Picksix: Lots of road favorites
BOSTON (-2.5) over Indiana -- Everyone in green has stepped it up in KG's absence. Some believe that Kendrick Perkins stepped it up by being absent against the Spurs. Either way, the C's should take care of the Pacers.
Detroit (-4.5) over ATLANTA -- The Pistons won three very convincing games last week (by 23 over Dallas, by 9 over Portland in a game that wasn't really that close and by 27 over Charlotte), and the Hawks shouldn't provide a whole lot of trouble.
MIAMI over Denver (-6.5) -- The final score against the Lakers didn't show it, but the Heat looked somewhat re-energized in Shawn Marion's debut. They undoubtedly become markedly better in the short term with him rather than an injured Shaq, as had been the case for several games prior to the trade that sent the Big Fella westward.
Minnesota over NEW JERSEY (-6.5) -- The Nets have spent all season finding ways to allow seemingly inferior teams to stay in games with them -- and sometimes beat them outright -- especially at home. After a big win over Dallas on Sunday, a letdown would be all too natural here.
Sacramento (-4.5) over MEMPHIS -- Life after Gasol continues in Memphis, most likely very poorly.
New Orleans (-4.5) over CHICAGO -- A very good Hornets team should take down an underachieving Hicag squad.
Last night: 6-1
Season: 397-360
Detroit (-4.5) over ATLANTA -- The Pistons won three very convincing games last week (by 23 over Dallas, by 9 over Portland in a game that wasn't really that close and by 27 over Charlotte), and the Hawks shouldn't provide a whole lot of trouble.
MIAMI over Denver (-6.5) -- The final score against the Lakers didn't show it, but the Heat looked somewhat re-energized in Shawn Marion's debut. They undoubtedly become markedly better in the short term with him rather than an injured Shaq, as had been the case for several games prior to the trade that sent the Big Fella westward.
Minnesota over NEW JERSEY (-6.5) -- The Nets have spent all season finding ways to allow seemingly inferior teams to stay in games with them -- and sometimes beat them outright -- especially at home. After a big win over Dallas on Sunday, a letdown would be all too natural here.
Sacramento (-4.5) over MEMPHIS -- Life after Gasol continues in Memphis, most likely very poorly.
New Orleans (-4.5) over CHICAGO -- A very good Hornets team should take down an underachieving Hicag squad.
Last night: 6-1
Season: 397-360
11 February 2008
The Picksix: 'Cats stumbling
LA Lakers (-7.5) over CHARLOTTE -- The Bobcats have lost six straight by the following margins: 14, 31, 16, 14, 14, 26. Not a chance.
Cleveland over ORLANDO (-6.5)
Dallas (-4.5) over PHILADELPHIA
Two very good teams turned in two very bad performances last night. Won't be replicated.
San Antonio over TORONTO (-0.5) -- Gregg Popovich called the Spurs' offense the worst he had ever seen at one point yesterday. Then he started ripping the defense. A lot will change in a day.
LA Clippers over MILWAUKEE (-4.5) -- Not giving any points with Milwaukee at this point.
HOUSTON (-7.5) over Portland -- Buzz saw.
Washington over GOLDEN STATE (-11.5) -- The run-n'-gun Wiz have hung in throughout their losses so far on this West Coast swing. The Dubs aren't blowing anybody out as of late.
Last night: 4-3
Season: 391-359
Cleveland over ORLANDO (-6.5)
Dallas (-4.5) over PHILADELPHIA
Two very good teams turned in two very bad performances last night. Won't be replicated.
San Antonio over TORONTO (-0.5) -- Gregg Popovich called the Spurs' offense the worst he had ever seen at one point yesterday. Then he started ripping the defense. A lot will change in a day.
LA Clippers over MILWAUKEE (-4.5) -- Not giving any points with Milwaukee at this point.
HOUSTON (-7.5) over Portland -- Buzz saw.
Washington over GOLDEN STATE (-11.5) -- The run-n'-gun Wiz have hung in throughout their losses so far on this West Coast swing. The Dubs aren't blowing anybody out as of late.
Last night: 4-3
Season: 391-359
10 February 2008
The Picksix: Suns giving too many
BOSTON (-0.5) over San Antonio -- This Celts team feels like it can really make a statement today, especially without KG. We'll see what they're made of.
LA Lakers (-9.5) over MIAMI -- The loss to the Hawks and the two poor performances from Kobe earlier in the week woke this team up. Bryant will play big against Dwyane Wade, and his team will show up in a big way.
Charlotte over DETROIT (-13.5) -- Too many points.
Dallas (-5.5) over NEW JERSEY -- The Mavs are a lot better than the Nets.
Toronto (-4.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Raps will be gunning hard coming off of a home loss to the Clippers on Friday. The Wolves put everything they had on the table against the Celts...and still came up short. Which means they could come out flat today.
CLEVEAND (-2.5) over Denver -- Denver isn't great on the road (9-13), and LeBron is really on his own planet as of late.
Washington over PHOENIX (-13.5) -- The Suns haven't been rolling with particular ease of late, and it doesn't help matters that they are particularly shorthanded now. Shawn Marion is gone, and Shaquille O'Neal is still getting healthy. We'll take the points.
Last night: 4-3
Season: 387-356
LA Lakers (-9.5) over MIAMI -- The loss to the Hawks and the two poor performances from Kobe earlier in the week woke this team up. Bryant will play big against Dwyane Wade, and his team will show up in a big way.
Charlotte over DETROIT (-13.5) -- Too many points.
Dallas (-5.5) over NEW JERSEY -- The Mavs are a lot better than the Nets.
Toronto (-4.5) over MINNESOTA -- The Raps will be gunning hard coming off of a home loss to the Clippers on Friday. The Wolves put everything they had on the table against the Celts...and still came up short. Which means they could come out flat today.
CLEVEAND (-2.5) over Denver -- Denver isn't great on the road (9-13), and LeBron is really on his own planet as of late.
Washington over PHOENIX (-13.5) -- The Suns haven't been rolling with particular ease of late, and it doesn't help matters that they are particularly shorthanded now. Shawn Marion is gone, and Shaquille O'Neal is still getting healthy. We'll take the points.
Last night: 4-3
Season: 387-356
09 February 2008
The Picksix: Knicks to fold once more?
Portland over INDIANA (-0.5)-- The Blazers will be without Brandon Roy once more in the second half of an Eastern back-to-back... but won't need him. Our principles also won't let us pick against a team due to a death in the family.
PHILADELPHIA (-6.5) over LA Clippers
NEW ORLEANS (-13.5) over Memphis
Both underdogs are bad Western teams playing the second halves of respective road back-to-backs. Sluggishness could be the order of the day.
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Atlanta -- The Cavs ran into the buzz saw that is the Rockets on Thursday and lost by 15. LeBron cleaned out the Hawks in the fourth quarter on Friday. The Hawks go to the home of the buzz saw on Saturday. Won't be pretty.
MILWAUKEE (-4.5) over New York -- A last-second implosion against the Spurs last night could definitely lead into the classic have-no-energy-and-get-stomped-the-next-night situation.
Chicago over UTAH (-13.5)
Sacramento over GOLDEN STATE (-7.5)
Too many points to give against two teams who haven't been getting blown out as of late.
Last night: 6-5
Season: 383-353
PHILADELPHIA (-6.5) over LA Clippers
NEW ORLEANS (-13.5) over Memphis
Both underdogs are bad Western teams playing the second halves of respective road back-to-backs. Sluggishness could be the order of the day.
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Atlanta -- The Cavs ran into the buzz saw that is the Rockets on Thursday and lost by 15. LeBron cleaned out the Hawks in the fourth quarter on Friday. The Hawks go to the home of the buzz saw on Saturday. Won't be pretty.
MILWAUKEE (-4.5) over New York -- A last-second implosion against the Spurs last night could definitely lead into the classic have-no-energy-and-get-stomped-the-next-night situation.
Chicago over UTAH (-13.5)
Sacramento over GOLDEN STATE (-7.5)
Too many points to give against two teams who haven't been getting blown out as of late.
Last night: 6-5
Season: 383-353
08 February 2008
The Picksix: Jazzin' it up
LA Lakers over ORLANDO (-2.5) -- Kobe has 17 points over his last two games combined. Perhaps he'll double that tonight.
TORONTO (-10.5) over LA Clippers -- The Raps are a lot better than the Clips.
New Jersey over CHARLOTTE (-2.5) -- The 'Cats are back to their losing ways. Perhaps the Nets will realize that they're actually supposed to be in the thick of the playoff race at some point soon.
Cleveland over ATLANTA (-1.5) -- Le. Bron.
San Antonio (-6.5) over NEW YORK -- How 'bout the Knicks losing at home to the Clips and Pacers this week? The Spurs look like they are getting it back together with three straight wins.
Portland over DETROIT (-9.5) -- A five-point win over the Heat? Yikes.
Boston (-4.5) over MINNESOTA -- Most of the fans at this game will be their for the video tribute to the Celtics' injured power forward rather than to watch the home team. And we wouldn't bet against Rajon right now.
DALLAS (-14.5) over Memphis -- Gasol hangover, anyone?
Seattle over PHOENIX (-13.5) -- Both teams love to push the tempo. Lots of points on both ends, smaller margin of victory. Shaq will need time to acclimate, too.
Utah (-2.5) over SACRAMENTO -- 16 of 18. Can't pass up the Jazz right now.
Washington over DENVER (-11.5) -- Simply too many points for an erratic-as-of-late Denver team.
Last night: 1-2
Season: 377-348
TORONTO (-10.5) over LA Clippers -- The Raps are a lot better than the Clips.
New Jersey over CHARLOTTE (-2.5) -- The 'Cats are back to their losing ways. Perhaps the Nets will realize that they're actually supposed to be in the thick of the playoff race at some point soon.
Cleveland over ATLANTA (-1.5) -- Le. Bron.
San Antonio (-6.5) over NEW YORK -- How 'bout the Knicks losing at home to the Clips and Pacers this week? The Spurs look like they are getting it back together with three straight wins.
Portland over DETROIT (-9.5) -- A five-point win over the Heat? Yikes.
Boston (-4.5) over MINNESOTA -- Most of the fans at this game will be their for the video tribute to the Celtics' injured power forward rather than to watch the home team. And we wouldn't bet against Rajon right now.
DALLAS (-14.5) over Memphis -- Gasol hangover, anyone?
Seattle over PHOENIX (-13.5) -- Both teams love to push the tempo. Lots of points on both ends, smaller margin of victory. Shaq will need time to acclimate, too.
Utah (-2.5) over SACRAMENTO -- 16 of 18. Can't pass up the Jazz right now.
Washington over DENVER (-11.5) -- Simply too many points for an erratic-as-of-late Denver team.
Last night: 1-2
Season: 377-348
07 February 2008
The Picksix: How will the Warriors respond to the long lay-off?
Miami over PHILADELPHIA (-9.5) -- Whether Shawn Marion will be suited up remains in question, but one would have to imagine that Dwyane Wade is feeling empowered by his newfound healthy help. And since when did expecting the Sixers to win by double-digits become a sound wagering tactic, anyway?
HOUSTON (-5.5) over Cleveland -- The Cavs are banged up, with Drew Gooden, Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao all likely out tonight. The Rockets have won 8 of 9 and 13 of 16 overall and will look to remain hot.
GOLDEN STATE (-10.5) over Chicago -- Due to a weird scheduling quirk of sorts, tonight's game is the first contest since last Friday for the Warriors. Against a Bulls team playing its third game in four nights out West, the Dubs should have the energy advantage.
Last night: 5-6
Season: 376-346
HOUSTON (-5.5) over Cleveland -- The Cavs are banged up, with Drew Gooden, Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao all likely out tonight. The Rockets have won 8 of 9 and 13 of 16 overall and will look to remain hot.
GOLDEN STATE (-10.5) over Chicago -- Due to a weird scheduling quirk of sorts, tonight's game is the first contest since last Friday for the Warriors. Against a Bulls team playing its third game in four nights out West, the Dubs should have the energy advantage.
Last night: 5-6
Season: 376-346
06 February 2008
The Picksix: Pow! Er, Pau!
LA Lakers (-3.5) over ATLANTA -- What, the headline didn't give it away? Kobe scores six points, and the Lakers win by 15 in Jersey. What if he actually shows up tonight? Atlanta fans are shuddering right now. Rightfully so.
New Jersey over ORLANDO (-11.5) -- Jason Kidd will badly exploit the Magic's weaknesses at the point, which is what will allow the Nets to hang in this one.
WASHINGTON over San Antonio (-3.5) -- A back-to-back for this Spurs team seems suspect, especially against a Wiz unit that loves to get out and run whenever possible.
BOSTON (-11.5) over LA Clippers -- With or without KG, the Celts are a lot better than the Clips.
DETROIT (-16.5) over Miami -- The Heat are indeed that bad.
Indiana over NEW YORK (-2.5) -- Nice loss at home to the Clips, fellas.
DALLAS (-12.5) over Milwaukee -- The Bucks will play the second half of a road back-to-back, likely without Michael Redd once more. The Mavs got back on track with a big win over Orlando on Monday.
New Orleans over PHOENIX (-7.5) -- Chris Paul won't be a no-show this time around in a second straight matchup against another top-tier point guard.
Utah over DENVER (-1.5) -- The Jazz are playing excellent basketball everywhere right now, and Kyle Korver is making me look really stupid for criticizing Utah's decision to acquire him (6-for-8 from deep in the big win over New Orleans on Tuesday).
Chicago over PORTLAND (-6.5) -- The Blazers have been back to a far more earthly level as of late. Even if they win, which they should, it will be close.
Seattle over SACRAMENTO (-11.5) -- We're starting to like this Kings bunch more and more, but this is still too many points.
Last night: 2-3
Season: 371-340
New Jersey over ORLANDO (-11.5) -- Jason Kidd will badly exploit the Magic's weaknesses at the point, which is what will allow the Nets to hang in this one.
WASHINGTON over San Antonio (-3.5) -- A back-to-back for this Spurs team seems suspect, especially against a Wiz unit that loves to get out and run whenever possible.
BOSTON (-11.5) over LA Clippers -- With or without KG, the Celts are a lot better than the Clips.
DETROIT (-16.5) over Miami -- The Heat are indeed that bad.
Indiana over NEW YORK (-2.5) -- Nice loss at home to the Clips, fellas.
DALLAS (-12.5) over Milwaukee -- The Bucks will play the second half of a road back-to-back, likely without Michael Redd once more. The Mavs got back on track with a big win over Orlando on Monday.
New Orleans over PHOENIX (-7.5) -- Chris Paul won't be a no-show this time around in a second straight matchup against another top-tier point guard.
Utah over DENVER (-1.5) -- The Jazz are playing excellent basketball everywhere right now, and Kyle Korver is making me look really stupid for criticizing Utah's decision to acquire him (6-for-8 from deep in the big win over New Orleans on Tuesday).
Chicago over PORTLAND (-6.5) -- The Blazers have been back to a far more earthly level as of late. Even if they win, which they should, it will be close.
Seattle over SACRAMENTO (-11.5) -- We're starting to like this Kings bunch more and more, but this is still too many points.
Last night: 2-3
Season: 371-340
05 February 2008
The Picksix: Lake Show getting high ratings
Boston over CLEVELAND (-2.5) -- Gotta love the respect the odds-makers are showing Rondo and the Rondettes in the absence of their rather significant MVP candidate.
INDIANA over San Antonio (-3.5) -- As of late, the only thing to do with the Spurs is to take the counterintuitive direction.
Washington over PHILADELPHIA (-1.5) -- The Wiz are supposed to be back at HIbachi-free full strength. The Wizards aren't very good.
LA Lakers (-4.5) over NEW JERSEY -- Kobe terrifies us.
MEMPHIS (-2.5) over Milwaukee -- Anytime Michael Redd isn't a lock to play (he's questionable), taking the Bucks is always a stretch.
Last night: 8-1
Season: 369-337
INDIANA over San Antonio (-3.5) -- As of late, the only thing to do with the Spurs is to take the counterintuitive direction.
Washington over PHILADELPHIA (-1.5) -- The Wiz are supposed to be back at HIbachi-free full strength. The Wizards aren't very good.
LA Lakers (-4.5) over NEW JERSEY -- Kobe terrifies us.
MEMPHIS (-2.5) over Milwaukee -- Anytime Michael Redd isn't a lock to play (he's questionable), taking the Bucks is always a stretch.
Last night: 8-1
Season: 369-337
04 February 2008
The Picksix: Monday Quicks
Long day ahead today in Boofville. Hopefully establishing a residence in Coverville with our efforts in these nine games:
ATLANTA (-5.5) over Philadelphia
Dallas over ORLANDO (-2.5)
Toronto (-6.5) over MIAMI
LA Clippers over NEW YORK (-5.5)
Houston (-4.5) over MINNESOTA
UTAH (-4.5) over New Orleans
Charlotte over PHOENIX (-16.5)
Denver over PORTLAND (-3.5)
Chicago (-0.5) over SEATTLE
Last night: 1-1
Season: 361-336
ATLANTA (-5.5) over Philadelphia
Dallas over ORLANDO (-2.5)
Toronto (-6.5) over MIAMI
LA Clippers over NEW YORK (-5.5)
Houston (-4.5) over MINNESOTA
UTAH (-4.5) over New Orleans
Charlotte over PHOENIX (-16.5)
Denver over PORTLAND (-3.5)
Chicago (-0.5) over SEATTLE
Last night: 1-1
Season: 361-336
03 February 2008
The Picksix: You're seriously reading us on Super Bowl Sunday?
LA Lakers (-4.5) over WASHINGTON -- You saw what Kobe did after he found out that help was on the way on Friday, right? Right? Right? We don't have the audacity to challenge his authority here.
Dallas over DETROIT (-5.5) -- The Pistons continue to play closer games than expected. The Mavs have won 12 of 15 and will be smarting over a loss to the KG-less Celts on Thursday.
Last night: 7-1
Season: 360-335
Dallas over DETROIT (-5.5) -- The Pistons continue to play closer games than expected. The Mavs have won 12 of 15 and will be smarting over a loss to the KG-less Celts on Thursday.
Last night: 7-1
Season: 360-335
02 February 2008
The Picksix: A Melo return in the high altitude?
ATLANTA (-4.5) over New Jersey -- The Nets have really not been a good basketball team over the past month. With Jason Kidd trade rumors swirling and the distractions beginning to come in torrents as a result, we're really looking to pass on this team in all games not involving the Heat.
Orlando (-3.5) over INDIANA -- Two teams headed in opposite directions: The Pacers have lost five in a row, and the Magic have won six of seven. With the Pacers losing a close one to a superior Houston team and Orlando winning a game that was closer than it should have been in Philly, look for the Magic to tighten up and make sure trends continue for both these teams.
CLEVELAND (-8.5) over LA Clippers -- Safe to say Bron might be a tad peeved after a loss to the Sonics on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, the Clippers come off a demoralizing 21-point bopping in Minnesota last night. This should be ugly.
Utah (-6.5) over MEMPHIS -- After dumping one of their best players for nothing tangibly positive in return (no love for Crittenton yet, and no love for Kwame ever), the Grizz aren't exactly all that appealing.
Houston (-5.5) over MILWAUKEE -- Michael Redd may or may not play. The Rockets are playing excellent basketball. Simple enough.
DENVER (-11.5) over Charlotte -- After playing the team with the league's third fastest pace on Friday night, the 'Cats turn around to play the league's fastest-paced team in Denver tonight. Further, Melo may be making his return (currently listed as questionable). Sounds like a pummeling from here.
SEATTLE (-3.5) over New York -- The Knicks will be finishing off a treacherous four-games-in-five-nights stretch out West the night after blowing a 15-point lead to lose in overtime in Portland. Not a formula for success.
Chicago over SACRAMENTO (-8.5) -- This line seems to be a residual effect of the Kings' well-played victory over New Orleans last night. That said, it's simply too high.
Last night: 5-4
Season: 353-334
Orlando (-3.5) over INDIANA -- Two teams headed in opposite directions: The Pacers have lost five in a row, and the Magic have won six of seven. With the Pacers losing a close one to a superior Houston team and Orlando winning a game that was closer than it should have been in Philly, look for the Magic to tighten up and make sure trends continue for both these teams.
CLEVELAND (-8.5) over LA Clippers -- Safe to say Bron might be a tad peeved after a loss to the Sonics on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, the Clippers come off a demoralizing 21-point bopping in Minnesota last night. This should be ugly.
Utah (-6.5) over MEMPHIS -- After dumping one of their best players for nothing tangibly positive in return (no love for Crittenton yet, and no love for Kwame ever), the Grizz aren't exactly all that appealing.
Houston (-5.5) over MILWAUKEE -- Michael Redd may or may not play. The Rockets are playing excellent basketball. Simple enough.
DENVER (-11.5) over Charlotte -- After playing the team with the league's third fastest pace on Friday night, the 'Cats turn around to play the league's fastest-paced team in Denver tonight. Further, Melo may be making his return (currently listed as questionable). Sounds like a pummeling from here.
SEATTLE (-3.5) over New York -- The Knicks will be finishing off a treacherous four-games-in-five-nights stretch out West the night after blowing a 15-point lead to lose in overtime in Portland. Not a formula for success.
Chicago over SACRAMENTO (-8.5) -- This line seems to be a residual effect of the Kings' well-played victory over New Orleans last night. That said, it's simply too high.
Last night: 5-4
Season: 353-334
01 February 2008
The Picksix: Stingers to rebound
Houston (-1.5) over INDIANA -- The Rockets have won 10 of 13, and the latest came against a Pacer-like fast-paced team, only better, in Golden State.
LA Lakers over TORONTO (-5.5) -- Think the Raps' still see Kobe putting 81 in their collective eyes when they are trying to sleep?
Orlando (-3.5) over PHILADELPHIA -- Let's not get used to the Sixers beating people by 43.
Utah (-3.5) over WASHINGTON -- Caron Butler's status remains up in the air, and the Jazz's hot streak of late does not.
New Jersey (-4.5) over MIAMI -- Taking Miami under any circumstances seems rather silly at this point.
LA Clippers over MINNESOTA (-7.5) -- Too many points.
New Orleans (-2.5) over SACRAMENTO -- Not enough points. Especially after a home loss to the Warriors on Wednesday for the Hornets.
GOLDEN STATE (-10.5) over Charlotte -- The 'Cats play their third game of the week out West. The Warriors will have momentum on their side after a beatdown of the Hornets.
PORTLAND (-9.5) over New York -- Until we get Tek on the line, the Doctrine stands. It worked for the Lakers!
Last night: 2-2
Season: 348-330
LA Lakers over TORONTO (-5.5) -- Think the Raps' still see Kobe putting 81 in their collective eyes when they are trying to sleep?
Orlando (-3.5) over PHILADELPHIA -- Let's not get used to the Sixers beating people by 43.
Utah (-3.5) over WASHINGTON -- Caron Butler's status remains up in the air, and the Jazz's hot streak of late does not.
New Jersey (-4.5) over MIAMI -- Taking Miami under any circumstances seems rather silly at this point.
LA Clippers over MINNESOTA (-7.5) -- Too many points.
New Orleans (-2.5) over SACRAMENTO -- Not enough points. Especially after a home loss to the Warriors on Wednesday for the Hornets.
GOLDEN STATE (-10.5) over Charlotte -- The 'Cats play their third game of the week out West. The Warriors will have momentum on their side after a beatdown of the Hornets.
PORTLAND (-9.5) over New York -- Until we get Tek on the line, the Doctrine stands. It worked for the Lakers!
Last night: 2-2
Season: 348-330
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