ATS Picks: Day 33

Before getting into anything Steph Curry related, I just wanna say I'm pissed that David Lee got suspended for last night's game against the Knicks.  I'm tellin you.. he and Tyson Chandler would have thrown bows. 

Anyhow, 5-5 last night to go 133-109 (.549) for the year, 17-13 on locks.  And yes, Steph Curry turnt up last night, but he can't get picture of the day.  Yesterday I said Tyson Chandler would get the picture of the day if he got in a fight, but my dude put up 28 boards and no one is talking about him. That is INSANE.  Big shout to Tyson Chandler.

LAC (+1) vs Indiana (-1): It's a shame that this game isn't being nationally televised.  I know the Pacers will be without Roy Hibbert tonight, but David West should be able to contain Blake Griffin, and Deandre Jordan isn't exactly an offensive juggernaut.  I like the Pacers here.

Philadelphia (+7) vs Chicago (-7):  Chicago has really fallen hard recently, but this is a perfect game for them to get back on track.  Philly blows. 

Minnesota (+10) vs LAL (-10):  I like the Lakers to win here, but they always seem to be in close games. 

Lock of the night goes to Chicago (-7).

ATS Picks: Day 32

6-2 last night for a cummulative record of 128-104 (0.552) and 17-12 on locks.  Before looking at tonight's games, I just want to point out how feisty things have been in the league recently.  Between the Bynum-Hansbrough debacle, the Melo-smacking- Hawes incident, and now the Roy Hibbert explosion (also... who knew Steph Curry had a temper?), things are kinda getting out of control.  David Stern is gonna have to tighten things up here soon.

Also, Roy Hibbert obviously gets the picture of the day for sparking the mini-fight with the Warriors last night.  Grindin every day even though he is potentially the worst maxed-out star in the league.  Big shout to Roy Hibbert.

Detroit (+7) vs Washington (-7): Washington has just been on a roll lately, and I refuse to get torched yet again for picking against them.

Toronto (-3) vs Cleveland (+3): Cleveland had a good win over the Bulls last night, and I look for them to continue their solid play tonight.

Sacramento (+1) vs Orlando (-1):  The only reason I can fathom Orlando being favored is the fact that Sacramento dropped a 2OT heartbreaker last night.  Otherwise, I would be all over the Kings here.

Golden State (+8) vs NYK (-8):  I'll just go ahead and call it right now: David Lee and Tyson Chandler are gonna scuffle tonight.  If it's a good fight, I might even give Tyson the picture of the day tomorrow.

New Orleans (+14.5) vs OKC (-14.5): New Orleans lost a tough one last night to Brooklyn, and now they get to play OKC.  The Hornets are gassed, and OKC should handle them tonight.

Dallas (+7.5) vs Memphis (-7.5): To be honest, the only reason I am picking Dallas here is because someone in my probability class told me to pick them.  Be warned, however.  This person has not watched an single NBA game in their life. 

Milwaukee (+8) vs Houston (-8):  Milwaukee picked up a good win against the Mavs last night, but Houston is a different animal. 

Phoenix (+16) vs San Antonio (-16):  San Antonio will win this game, but 16 is just so big.

Atlanta (+4.5) vs Utah (-4.5):  Utah needs a win here, and they are playing at home.

Denver (-2.5) vs Portland (+2.5):  When Denver comes to play, they come to play.  Kenneth Faried is quickly becoming one of my favorite players in the league.  Not many guys play as hard as this dude.

 Lock of the night goes to Denver (-2.5).

ATS Picks: Day 31

Last night was a painful 1-3 (although the only game that I got right was the lock) to go 122-102 (.547) on the year and 16-12 on locks.  Also, I am secretly rooting against the Lakers so that I can be right about them not making the playoffs, so who cares that they got smacked by Denver.

Orlando (+9.5) vs Philadelphia (-9.5): I cannot fathom how Philly is favored by 9.5, but I guess it's just a testament to how bad Orlando actually is.

Golden State (+8) vs Indiana (-8):  This is a really good matchup.. a great offense vs a great defense.  I always like Indiana at home. 

Sacramento (+15) vs Miami (-15): Miami plays down to their opponent too often.

Brooklyn (+2.5) vs New Orleans (-2.5):  I actually forced myself to watch Brooklyn play the other night against Memphis, and I must say I was impressed with Brook Lopez.  Dude is a legit big man, so he is getting the picture of the day.  Big shout to Brook Lopez.

Cleveland (+6.5) vs Chicago (-6.5): Just when I think the Bulls are a team to be reckoned with, they go and get smacked by OKC.  That being said, they shouldn't have trouble with Cleveland.

 Milwaukee (+5.5) vs Dallas (-5.5): Both of these teams are just swimming in medicority, and that is the worst thing to do in the NBA.  It'll be interesting to see where Cuban takes this Mavericks team after this year, and also whether or not the Bucks stick with the notoriou Jennings/Ellis duo.

Minnesota (+1.5) vs Phoenix (-1.5): This is a potential lock of the night.  When healthy, the Wolves can actually play.

Charlotte (+15.5) vs LAC (-15.5):  What a ginormous line.  

Lock of the night goes to Minnesota (+1.5).

ATS Picks: Day 30

4-5 last night to go 121-99 (.550) on the year, 15-12 on locks.  I deserve two losses for the Brooklyn lock.  What a sorry choice. 

Washington (+5) vs Toronto (-5): Washington has been oddly good against the spread, but I can't stomach taking them.  It hurts my heart. 

Atlanta (-3) vs Detroit (+3): Today Will Bynum gets the picture of the day for punching Tyler Hansbrough in the stomach.  Not the best punch ever.. lower it about 6 inches and then it might have been cool.  But still.  Big shout to Will Bynum.  Also his picture is hilarious because he isn't even looking at the camera (and kinda looks like a crackhead).  Who does that?

LAL (+7) vs Denver (-7):  Kobe Bryant had a tweet yesterday that can only be described as, well, Kobe-ish.  After putting up 38-12-7, Kobe tweeted "Amnesty THAT" in response to Mark Cuban's suggestion that the Lakers consider using the amnesty clause on Bryant's contract.  Gotta love it.

Boston (+7) vs Utah (-7): It very may well be time for me to give up on Boston.  After losing again last night, they have convinced me to stay away from the tempting spreads Vegas gives them.

Lock of the night goes to Atlanta (-3).

ATS Picks: Day 29

Another solid night last night, going 5-2 for an overall of 117-94 (.555) and 15-11 on locks.  But of course I jinxed Jeremy Lin.  As soon as I give him picture of the day, he goes out and puts up 5 points on  2-9 against the Wizards.  Whateva.

Solid slate today.

LAL (+3) vs Dallas (-3):  Now that Dwight Howard is actually playing with some balls, the Lakers don't look half bad.  I still don't see them making the playoffs, but they are at least watchable now.

Golden State (-1.5) vs Minnesota (+1.5): Last time the Warriors played, I got burned for picking against the sleeved uniforms.  Not gonna let that happen again.

Sacramento (+7) vs New Orleans (-7): If I could, I would just pretend like this game didn't exist.

Cleveland (+13) vs Miami (-13): Everyone can't stop talking about the possibility of LeBron returning to the Cavs once he becomes a free agent in 2014.  I don't see it happening.  The reason that he and Wade have worked out is because Wade is a 2 guard and plays pretty well off the ball.  If you bring LeBron to Cleveland, you now have 2 point guards.  They both can't run the offense.

Memphis (-2.5) vs Brooklyn (+2.5): I rarely pick in favor of the Nets, but I'm not in love with Memphis and Brooklyn is getting 2.5 points at home.

Philadelphia (+10) vs NYK (-10):  Philly just got mopped by the Heat last night, and now they have to go play at the Garden.

San Antonio (-9) vs Phoenix (+9):  Today Nando de Colo is getting the picture of the day, just because I like to say his name.  Big shout to Nando de Colo.

Boston (+2) vs Portland (-2):  I always like Boston as underdogs.

Chicago (+9) vs OKC (-9): I don't have any particularly strong feelings either way on this one, and so I usually just pick the Thunder when I am indifferent.

Lock of the day/night goes to Brookyln (+2.5).

ATS Picks: Day 28

Great night last night.  I don't even care that I didn't win the lock of the night (which, by the way, if I had known that the Warriors were debuting the sleeved jerseys I never would have picked against them.. obviously).  9-3 for the night to go 112-92 (.549) for the year, 14-11 on locks.

Houston (-1.5) vs Washington (+1.5): When this Houston team scores, it doesn't really matter that they don't play a lick of D.  My favorite thing about this team isn't that James Harden is playing out of his mind, but rather that Jeremy Lin is finally finding his role (I know he had a rought night last night).  Dude is getting the picture of the day.  Big shout to Jeremy Lin.

Denver (-9.5) vs Charlotte (+9.5):  9.5 points is a lot to swallow for a road team.. Unless that road team is playing in Charlotte.

Cleveland (-5.5) vs Orlando (+5.5): I really don't know what to say here.  I got nothing.

Indiana (-4) vs Detroit (+4): Indiana is now suddenly scoring a ton of points.  This should scare the rerst of the East.

Miami (-7.5) vs Philadelphia (+7.5):  Hopin that the Heat go 10 in a row.. They shouldn't have any problem doing so against Philly.

Atlanta (+4.5) vs Milwaukee (-4.5):  J.J. Redick should make his debut with the Bucks tonight.  I'm too hyped. 

Utah (+9) vs LAC (-9):  I like the Clippers to rebound from the shalacking they received from San Antonio the other night.

Lock of the night goes to Indiana (-4).

ATS Picks: Day 27

I was way off the mark last night, going 0-2 for a cummulative record of 103-89 (.536), 14-10 on locks. 

Before looking ahead at tonight's games, here are just a few thoughts from yesterday's trade deadline:

1.  The Wizards once again proved their management incompetence, dealing Jordan Crawford to Boston for Leandro Barbosa and Jason Collins.  I understand they had to clear some cap space, but Crawford carried this team when John Wall was hurt, and they got two scrubs in return (both have expiring contracts, too).

2.  J.J. Redick to the Bucks was a good look, but it will be really interesting to see how he fits in with the Ellis/Jenning duo.  I can't imagine he will see as much of the ball.

3.  Josh Smith, who wasn't traded, will probably play out of his mind for the rest of the year... he knows free agency is right around the corner.  Let's just hope this doesn't turn into Deron Williams 2.0.


Onto tonight's games.

Denver (-3.5) vs Washington (+3.5): Washington really did a stellar job of revamping their roster before the trade deadline.  A crusty Jason Collins and an ACL-less Leandro Barbosa.  We takin it all the way. 

Detroit (+9.5) vs. Indiana (-9.5): Indiana is pretty dirty at home.

NYK (-2) vs Toronto (+2):  The Knicks just dealt Ronnie Brewer to the Thunder.  They should have dumped him a while ago.

Chicago (-6.5) vs Charlotte (+6.5):  Chicago just got smacked last night against Miami, and I always like well-coached teams in games after a loss.

Houston (+1.5) vs Brooklyn (-1.5):  Thomas Robinson gets the picture of the day today, becuase I really hope the change of scenery helps his development.  Big shout to Thomas Robinson.

Sacramento (+8) vs Atlanta (-8):  Like I said above, Josh Smith is gonna be a stud for the rest of the year.  He wants the big money, and so he is going to have to pay like he deserves it first.

Dalllas (-1.5) vs New Orleans (+1.5): Just a gut feeling.

Minnesota (+13.5) vs OKC (-13.5): Scott Brooks ripped his team the other night for blowing a big lead against the Rockets.  I think the Thunder come out tonight very focused, but I have to believe Minnesota can stay within 14.

Orlando (+14) vs Memphis (-14): The post Redick era starts for Orlando tonight.  They undoubtedly are worse without him, but I believe they can stay within 14 of this mediocre Memphis team.

Boston (-2) vs Phoenix (+2): Supposedly KG turned down a CP3 offer to come to the Clips.  I gotta give it up to the Big Ticket.  I woud find it rather difficult to say no to Chris Paul.

San Antonio (-3) vs Golden State (+3):  San Antonio obliterated the Clippers last night, and I think they are gonna roll again tonight.

Portland (+9.5) vs LAL (-9.5):  Kobe guaranteed that the Lakers would make the playoffs.  Earlier this year I said they were done, so I am just gonna stick to my guns.  Sorry Kobe.

Lock of the night goes to San Antonio (-3).

ATS Picks: Day 26

5-6 last night for an overall of 103-87 (0.542) and 14-9 on locks.  I must say, OKC really screwed me over in the lock of the night.  James Harden went in though, so I gotta give him the picture of the day.  Big shout to James Harden. 

Also, I just gotta say.  I watched the 4th quarter of the Miami-Atlanta game last night, and Miami is literally unstoppable when they want to turn it on.  That was the closest thing I've ever seen to perfect basketball.  They were absolutely dominating both ends of the floor.

Enough with the Miami lovefest. 

Miami (-3) vs Chicago (+3):  Like I've said in the past, this is just a horrible matchup for the Heat.  Chicago is big, physical, and they never roll over against better opponents.  Miami tends to play with too much reliance on natural ability, and Chicago plays with straight heart.  I'd take Miami in a seven game series, but I think they drop one tonight.

San Antonio (+3) vs LAC (-3): Potential playoff matchup right here.  I like the Clippers mostly because they are at home and healthy. 

Lock of the night goes to Chicago (+3).

ATS Picks: Day 25

5-4 last night to go 98-81 (0.547), 14-8 on locks.

The trade deadline is closing in, and so before I start with tonight's games, here are two trades that need to happen:

1. Josh Smith to Bucks for some kind of deal involving Monta Ellis.
2. Eric Bledsoe to any team in the league that will let him start.

Josh Smith needs a change of scenery, and Bledsoe won't ever start in LA as long as CP3 is there.  Some Bledsoe-to-Boston rumors have surfaced, but that would be a stupid trade because once Rondo comes back, Bledsoe will go right back to the bench.

Memphis (+1) vs Toronto (-1):  Rudy Gay will face off against his old squad for the first time since being traded to the Raptors.  Never underestimate a player with a chip on his shoulder; he should have big numbers tonight.

NYK (+3.5) vs Indiana (-3.5):  I'm really not feelin the Knicks vibe anymore.  If they aren't shooting lights out from 3-point land, they rely way too much on the Felton-Chandler pick-and-roll.  Take away the pick-and-roll, and you get 48 minutes of Melo iso ball.  That is not a good thing.

Detroit (-3) vs Charlotte (+3):  MJ's trainer said that MJ could average 20 a night if he came back.  Not buyin it.

New Orleans (+2.5) vs Cleveland (-2.5):  Kyrie Irving put on a show at All-Star weekend.  But let's take tis time to give a big shout to Greivis Vasquez for his exceptional play this far.  Homeboy is averaging 14 and 9.5 a game.. no one saw that coming.  Picture of the day is decided.  Big shout to Greivis Vasquez. 

Philadelphia (+3) vs Minnesota (-3):  I said it at the beginning of the year, and I will stand by it.  Andrew Bynum will not play a game this year.

Brooklyn (+4) vs Milwaukee (-4): PJ Carlesimo might have the hardest job in the NBA: to defend Deron Williams.

Miami (-5.5) vs Atlanta (+5.5):  Well this could be the last time we see Josh Smith in a Hawks uniform.  As a departing gift, he gets to guard LeBron tonight.  I say he should stick it to Atlanta and just tank the game.  Let LeBron put up 50. 

OKC (-3) vs Houston (+3):  The whole city of Houston is going to have All-Star weekend hangover.  I like OKC big here. 

Orlando (+11) vs Dallas (-11):  I just feel like this is such a huge line.

Boston (+7) vs LAL (-7):  This game would have been cool 3 years ago.

Phoenix (+8) vs Golden State (-8):  Golden State got crushed again last night, and this worries me.  I really really really want this team to be good.

Lock of the night goes to OKC (-3).

ATS Picks: Day 24

We're back from a (mediocre) All-Star break, and I got 1 of the 2 champions right for the 3 point and dunk contests.  That has gotta be worth something.  Anyway, I went 2-0 on the last night of games to go 93-77 (.547) for the year and 13-8 on locks.

Toronto (+2.5) vs Washington (-2.5):  Washington has been deadly at home with John Wall, but I like Toronto here.

Charlotte (+4.5) vs Orlando (-4.5):  With the trade deadline only days away, this could be JJ Redick's last home game. 

Milwaukee (+4.5) vs Brooklyn (-4.5):  I hope Deron Williams' ankles are feeling better, because for some disturbing reason I like the Net here.

Memphis (-2.5) vs Detroit (+2.5):  As scary as it is to say, Detroit isn't completely out of the playoff hunt.  I wish Drummond was healthy, cause it could make thing really interesting. 

Chicago (-1.5) vs New Orleans (+1.5): Potential lock of the day?

Boston (+8.5) vs Denver (-8.5): People are going to keep counting out Boston.  I will keep picking them.

Golden State (+3.5) vs Utah (-3.5):  Golden State really hit a rough patch before the All-Star break.  Hopefully they get on track soon, but Utah is really good at home. 

Phoenix (+6.5) vs Portland (-6.5):  Phoenix is no good.

San Antonio (-9) vs Sacramento (+9): Sacramento fans are really starting to turn out now that they realistically could be moved to Seattle.. my gut says they stay.

Lock of the night goes to Chicago (-1.5), and it would be a shame if I didn't give the picture of the day to Jerry Buss.  Big shout to Jerry Buss.

ATS Picks: Day 23

 7-5 last night, 91-77 (0.542) for the year and 12-8 on locks.

Tonight is the last night of games befor the All-Star break and David Stern really outdid himself, giving us two bangers to end the first part of the season.

Miami (+5) vs OKC (-5): I don't think many people realize what a privilege it is to watch LeBron put on this kind of show.  We are literally watching some of the best basketball of all time.  I would give him the picture of the day today, but if I based the picture of the day on merit alone, LBJ would have it every day.  Gotta change things up.  Anyway, this is definitely the best matchup in the NBA.   Let's hope this is a preview of the NBA Finals.

LAL(+3) vs LAC (-3):  You can't really say this is a home game for the Lakers, so it's not like they have a huge advantage.  Now that Chris Paul and Blake Griffin are back, the Clips are finally playing good ball again.  Remember all of the cries to fire Vinny Del Negro last year?  Homeboy has been holding it down this year, so he gets the picture of the day.  Big shout to Vinny Del Negro.

That wraps up the first part of the season.. I've got Terrence Ross in the dunk contest and Matt Bonner in the 3-point contest. 

ATS Picks: Day 22

84-72 (.538) for the year, 11-8 on locks.  

Atlanta (-2.5) vs Orlando (+2.5):  Not much to say here.

San Antonio (-8) vs Cleveland (+8) I swore to myself that I would stop picking against Pop.  I mean it this time.

Charlotte (+11) vs Indiana (-11):  Danny Granger may make his debut tonight.

Chicago (+2.5) vs Boston (-2.5)  As if things couldn't get any worse for the Celtics, Leandro Barbosa goes down with a torn ACL.  Moore's Law is all over this team. 

Denver (+2.5) vs Brooklyn (-2.5)  There has been a lot of recent talk about Deron Williams and how he has fallen off.  I wonder what took so long for these articles to surface.. this has been evident for a while now.

Toronto (+8.5) vs NYK (-8.5):  Toronto always hangs close.

Washington (+2) vs Detroit (-2):  Jose Calderon has finally found somewhere where he can run the show, so he gets the picture of the day.  Big shout to Jose Calderon.

Philadelphia (+5.5)  vs Milwaukee (-5.5): This is a real snoozer.

Portland (+5) vs New Orleans (-5):  Another snoozer. 

Utah (+2.5) vs Minnesota (-2.5):  Minnesota is finally getting some pieces back. 

Sacramento (+10) vs Dallas (-10):  Dallas should win, but not by 10.

Houston (+10.5) vs LAL (-10.5)   I don't know what more I can say about the Lakers.  They blow.  Let's move on.

Lock of the night has to be Houston (+10.5).  Maybe I'm missing something here, but this one seems way too easy.

ATS Picks: Day 21

Yesterday I said I would probably regret picking the Bulls (-2) over the Spurs (+2).  I do.  It's really incredible how the Spurs are just dismantling quality teams without some of their elite players.  It would be a crime not to give the picture of the day to Greg Popovich.  But it's gonna happen.

I went 4-4 last night for a record of 81-69 for the year (11-7 on locks).  I am so pumped for tonight's games, though.  There are a few gems.

Denver (-2) vs Toronto (+2):  The other day, George Karl said that Andre Miller was a top 40 player.  That's a bit of a stretch for me, but his cerebral game is perfect for this team, who has been on fire lately.

Portland (+11.5) vs Miami (-11.5):  In case you have been in hiding for the last week, LeBron James has been on fire.  After he got his ring last year, we all speculated the level of play he might be able to achieve now that the pressure is off his back.  It's all finally coming to fruition.  His dominance is actually ridiculous.

Sacramento (+9) vs Memphis (-9):  I think Memphis will win, but not by 9.

OKC (-5.5) vs Utah (+5.5):  No one in this league matches up with OKC.  I just think they are head and shoulders the best team right now. 

Phoenix (+9) vs LAL (-9):  The more I hear about Dwight Howard, the more I dislike him.  If you can piss off Steve Nash, you must be doing something horribly wrong.  LA needs to get him out of there; he is not the kind of guy you wanna build a franchise around.

Houston (+5) vs Golden State (-5): Game of the night right here.  For those of you who don't remember, these two teams went at it last time they played.  Houston was going for the all time 3 point record, and Mark Jackson/Draymond Green weren't having any of it.  It got chippy at the end, and Houston didn't end up breaking the record.  Tonight will be a revenge game for both teams.  Also, because Draymond Green is starting to be known as one of the few tough guys in the NBA, he gets the picture of the day.  Big shout to Draymond Green.

Lock of the night goes to Denver (-2). 

ATS Picks: Day 20

I should really give the picture of the day to Jason Terry for his unecessary last second layup to cover the two point spread last night, but I loathe the Celtics. There is no way that a Celtic is going to get the picture of the day two days in a row.

Anyways I went 5-4 last night for a cummulative record of 77-65 (.542) and 11-6 on locks.

Minnesota (+7) vs Cleveland (-7):  I just can't see Cleveland winning by more than 7.  Also, Ricky Rubio gets the picture of the day because he got pulled up to play in the Chuck vs Shaq game, and he should throw some sick oops.  Big shout to Ricky Rubio.

LAC (-4.5) vs Philadelphia (+4.5):  The Clippers are finally starting to look like the Clipper of old.  Funnny how things work out when Chris Paul comes back.  The Clips looked really solid yesterday in their win against the Knicks, and I think they'll roll against Philly.

Boston (-3.5) vs Charlotte (+3.5):  Boston is still undefeated without Rondo, and even though they played a triple OT game yesterday, they should beat Charlotte handily.

Brooklyn (+8.5) vs Indiana (-8.5):  What the heck is up with Brooklyn.  They are definitely the most underachieving team of the year.  

New Orleans (+5) vs Detroit (-5):  Ew.  Stay away from this game.

Washington (+4.5) vs Milwaukee (-4.5):  Washington is a different team without John Wall.

San Antonio (+2) vs Chicago (-2):  I don't really know where to go with this one.  The Spurs are shorthanded, but I've been burned in the past for betting against Pop.  Coin flip.

Atlanta (+5) vs Dallas (-5):  Don't mess with a team that is threatening not to shave.  I thik Dallas will roll here, especially at home.

Lock of night goes to Boston (-3.5).

ATS Picks: Day 19

Last night featured both bad basketball and bad picks.  I went 2-3 for a cummulative record of 72-61 (.541) and 10-6 on locks.  No worries though.  Sunday games are always good, and I'm feeling confident today.

LAC (+3.5) vs NYK (-3.5):  This is such a fun matchup.  Chris Paul is finally back for the Clippers, and the Knicks are almost completely healthy.  I'm only leaning towards the Knicks because the game is at MSG.

LAL (+7.5) vs Miami (-7.5):  LeBron dominates Kobe in this matchup.  Don't expect anything different today.

Portland (-3) vs Orlando (+3):  Portland on the road scares me, but Orlando is really beat up.

Denver (+2) vs Boston (-2):  Another great matchup.  Denver has been on fire lately, and the Celtics haven't lost without Rondo.  Avery Bradley gets the picture of the day, cause he has been holding it down without Rondo and playing incredible defense.  Big shout to Avery Bradley.

Minnesota (+8.5) vs Memphis (8.5):  Things just keep getting worse for Memphis.  They trade Gay, and now Lionel Hollins is complaining about not having enough big men.  This franchise is spiraling downwards very quickly.

New Orleans (+3.5) vs Toronto (-3.5):  When Kyle Lowry plays well, this Raptors team is actually kinda dangerous.  That being said, they won't even make the playoffs so lets not make too much of it.

OKC (-8.5) vs Phoenix (+8.5):  I don't like Goran Dragic. 

San Antonio (-2.5) vs Brooklyn (+2.5):  On paper, Brooklyn should be way better than they are.  But Joe Johnson and Deron Williams are vastly overrated, Brook Lopez is soft, and opposing teams have figured out that Gerald Wallace can't hit a jumper to save his life.  Not a dangerous team whatsoever.

Houston (-6) vs Sacramento (+6):  I kinda have to pick Houston here, especially considering how awesome this is.

 Lock of the day goes to Boston (-2).  For all you soccer fans out there, check out this video of Steve Nash. 

ATS Picks: Day 18

Tonight has potentially the worst/most boring matchups that I've seen in a while.  The games absolutely blow.  Denver-Cleveland isn't a bad look, but when it's the best game of the night, that ain't good. 

Last night I was 7-5 to go 70-58 (.547) for the year (10-5 on locks).

Denver (-5.5) vs Cleveland (+5.5): This is probably the best game of the night.  Kyrie Irving is obviously a stud, but I also really like Ty Lawson.  Should be a good matchup.  Also since Kenneth Faried is gonna be in the dunk contest, I gotta give him picture of the day.  Big shout to Kenneth Faried. 

Charlotte (+9) vs Philadelphia (-9):  This might be the most outrageous line that I've seen in a while.  You know something is screwed up when Philly is favored by 9.  That being said, I wouldn't be surprised if they cover.

Golden State (+6) vs Dallas (-6):  The Mavericks are choosing not to shave until they reach .500.  This is going to be a scruffy team.

Detroit (+7) vs Milwaukee (-7):  Detroit is coming off of a solid win against San Antontio last night, but will be playing without my boy Andre Drummond.  The Bucks may not have Larry Sanders, though, so I like Detroit here.

Utah (+1) vs Sacramento (-1): Utah is coming off a tough loss and Sacramento is awful.

Lock of the night goes to Utah (+1).  And for those of you that missed it, this is awesome.  And this is just weird. 

ATS Picks: Day 17

Well I got burned yesterday for going against my "always-pick-Denver-at-home" rule, but I don't even care, because today the NBA got some great news:  The Birdman is staying in Miami for the rest of the year.  Yup, that's right.  For the remainder of the season, Chris Andersen will grace us with his awkward court presence and questionable tattoos.  Even Erik Spoelstra, who admittedly refuses to refer to players by their nicknames, admits that Andersen is "different" and has conceded to get in touch with his avian side.  Great news for Heat nation.

In all seriousness, though, I like the signing.

Last night I went 1-1 for a cummulative record of 63-53-1 (.543) and a record of 10-4-1 for locks (side note: these "1's" at the end of my record are for pushes, and they are kinda pissing me off so I may just get rid of them). 

Tonight features 12 games, undoubtedly highlighted by the Miami-LAC matchup.  Get hyped.

Toronto (+7.5) vs Indiana (-7.5): Indiana at home.

Brooklyn (+1.5) vs Washington (-1.5):  I get scared whenever Washington is favored.  There is no reason that Brooklyn shouldn't win this game.  I mean c'mon.  The Verizon Center isn't exactly home court advantage. 

LAL (-6.5) vs Charlotte (+6.5):  I would go Charlotte, but then again, who goes Charlotte?

San Antonio (-5) vs Detroit (+5): I doubt Duncan is gonna play til after the break, but I still gotta put my faith in Pop.

Orlando (+6.5) vs Cleveland (-6.5): One word.  Kyrie.

New Orleans (+4.5) vs Atlanta (-4.5): Jeff Teague has been playing out of his mind lately.

NYK (-6) vs Minnesota (+6):  You never know what you're gonna get out of the Wolves, so I like New York here.
 

Golden State (+3.5) vs Memphis (-3.5):  The Grizzlies are apparently still shopping ZBo, although they promised him he would stay.  I don't understand.

LAC (+5.5) vs Miami (-5.5):  Since this post is pretty much entirely devoted to Birdman, I'll go with the Heat.

Phoenix (+12.5) vs OKC (-12.5):  OKC is at home.

Portland (+7) vs Houston (-7):  Houston has been playing really well of late, and I don't really like Portland on the road.

Chicago (+4) vs Utah (-4): Chicago has lost two straight, and I don't think it's gonna be three.

Lock of the night goes to San Antonio (-5).

ATS Picks: Day 16

Things are starting to look up.  Went 9-4 last night for an overall of 62-52-1 (.544) and 9-4-1 on locks.

Just a few thoughts from yesterday..

Memphis is really in trouble.  They are 1-3 without Rudy Gay (yesterday I said they were winless... my b) and there are rumors that Hollins and Co. are now shopping Z Bo.  This would be a disaster.

The Celtics STILL aren't better without Rondo.  I don't care if they won again last night.  Doc Rivers deserves all the credit in the world for implemting this no-point-guard system.  He makes no excuses for the team, and even complained about their poor play last night.  And that is why Doc Rivers is getting the picture of the day.  Big shout to Doc Rivers.

Tonight only features two games, but I'm hyped for the 8:00 Celtics-Lakers matchup.

LAL (+1.5) vs Boston (-1.5):  Well tack another one up on the Lakers' injury list.  Pau Gasol tore his plantar fascia, and will likely miss 4-6 weeks.  Kobe Bryant immediately responded with a message to Dwight Howard, basically saying that he needs to sac up and play.  This whole "use the media to communicate to teammates" theme is becoming all too common for the Lakers.  If Kobe wants to let Dwight Howard know that he should be playing, maybe Kobe should be the one to grow a pair and say it to his face.

Chicago (+6.5) vs Denver (-6.5):  This one is tough. I always like Denver at home, but I also really like this Chicago team, even if they are a little beat up.  I'm gonna go with Chicago, simply because I like them in games after a loss.

 Lock of the night goes to Boston (-1.5).  And by the way, if you haven't checked out the throwback uniforms that everyone has been wearing, check them out.  They are ILL.

ATS Picks: Day 15

Besides the 31 point smackdown that Houston laid on Golden State last night, I was pretty much on point.  I went 4-1 for a 53-48-1 (0.525) cummulative record and a record of 8-4-1 on locks. 

Going back to the Houston/Golden State game, the ending was hilarious.  Houston needed one more three pointer to break the all-time record for a single game but Mark Jackson wasn't having any of it.  Golden State started intentionally fouling, and Houston finished with 23 field goals from downtown to tie the record.  Houston still won by 31, but hey, they didn't break the record.

It's Wednesday again, so we are all blessed with another NBA marathon for the night.

LAC (-6) vs Orlando (+6): The Clippers are eventually going to get out of this recent funk they have been experiencing.  Tonight is not that night.  With CP3 already out, LA will likely be without Blake Griffin as well.  That is not good.

Indiana (+2.5) vs Philadelphia (-2.5):  When the heck is Andrew Bynum gonna be back? This Philly team is so boring.  

NYK (-4) vs Washington (+4):  The Knicks are winners of 5 straight at home, and I expect them to build on that success.  Also, Mike Woodson gets the picture of the day because he called out Tyon Chandler for taking plays off.  Chandler responded with three straight 20 rebound games.  Big shout to Mike Woodson.

Boston (+3) vs Toronto (-3): I can't stand KG, but I gotta give hime props.  One of the most loyal dudes in the NBA.  I don't see him going anywhere.

Charlotte (+6) vs Cleveland (-6): Not really sure why, but I just like Cleveland here.

Brooklyn (+2) vs Detroit (-2):  I'll take Brooklyn just cause I think Detroit is still trying to figure things out with this new roster.  Also I hereby start the "start  Andre Drummond" movement.

Houston (+8) vs Miami (-8):  Houston scored 140 last night.  That's definitely not happening tonight, but I do think they will stay within 8.

Memphis (-1.5) vs Atlanta (+1.5): Memphis hasn't won since dealing Gay.  Serves them right.

Golden State (+10.5) vs OKC (-10.5): Golden state got rocked last night, and their reward? OKC.  How fun.

Phoenix (+6.5) vs New Orleans (-6.5):  The Hornets should never be favored by more than 3.  Ever.

Portland (+4.5) vs Dallas (-4.5):  Portland is playing good ball, and Dallas is just too undpredictable.

San Antonio (-4.5) vs Minnesota (+4.5): Tim Duncan prolly will be sitting this one out, but I don't care.  The Spurs are too good.

Milwaukee (+5.5) vs Utah (-5.5):  Please, Al Jefferson.  Don't go to the Spurs.


Lock of the night goes to San Antonio (-4.5).  To end this post, check out Kobe's nasty dunk over Kris Humphries last night.  Filthy.

ATS Picks: Day 14

In trade news, the Clippers decided they wanted KG, then they didn't, and then they did again.  Who knows.  In other Los Angeles news, Pau Gasol is fed up with D'Antoni and Dwight Howard and may request to be moved at the end of the year.  This officially makes Gasol and Howard they biggest diva combo in the league.  Not to mention they have a rapist on the team, too (I kid, I kid).  But seriously.  Gasol has no reason to be saying all of this in the middle of the season and the team's most important road trip of the year.  Scrub.

Last night was a fruitful 5-3 night, so that makes me 49-47-1 (.510) for the year (7-4-1 for locks).  I really botched the Heat game.  Charlotte always seems to hang with them.

Atlanta (+5.5) vs Indiana (-5.5):  Random thought:  Hibbert's max contract may be the worst in the league.  He has been mediocre at best this year. 

LAL (+4.5) vs Brooklyn (-4.5):  The Lakers' road trip continues, and Brooklyn is probably the first quality team they will have to face this trip.  This game is a must win, so I like LA here.

Golden State (+2.5) vs Houston (-2.5):  Now that Golden State is finally healthy, they may be my favorite team in the league to watch.  Pair them with a Houston Rockets team that is averaging 105.1 a game, and this should be an offensive clinic.

Phoenix (+8.5) vs Memphis (-8.5):  Memphis has been pretty pathetic since it got rid of Rudy Gay to avoid the luxury tax.  I can't remember where I saw it, but Andrew Bogut was quoted somewhere basically saying that it is scary that owners would put money ahead of winning.  It's not good for the league.  Spit the truth, Andrew Bogut.

Milwaukee (+7) vs Denver (-7): The "always-pick-Denver-at-home" rule goes into effect here.  And Danilo Gallinari gets the picture of the day, just because I love his name.  Big shout to Danilo Gallinari.

Lock of the night goes to Indiana (-5.5).  I picked a lot of road dogs tonight.  We'll see what happens.

ATS Picks: Day 13

Trade rumors are starting to pick up, and that always gets me too hyped.  Not really buying the KG to the Clippers talk, but I think Danny Granger to the Rockets would be ill.  Like I mentioned in an earlier post, KG would have to waive his no trade clause and I just don't see that happening.

Anyway I went 5-7 over the last few days to put my overall record at 44-44-1 (.500.. who said that the law of large numbers isn't true?) but I went 2-0 in my locks to go 7-3-1.   

Orlando (+9) vs Philadelphia (-9):  What a sleeper.

LAC (-3) vs Washington (+3):  I'm starting to think that this Chris Paul injury is a little more serious than everyone thinks it is.  According to ESPN, there is no timetable for his return.  That does not sound good.

Chicago (+5) vs Indiana (-5):  I truly believe that one of these teams might be the one to make it out of the East.  The Knicks and Heat just don't match up well with either of them.  Also, Danny Granger gets the picture of the day, because I really want to see him go to Houston.  Big shout to Danny Granger.

Detroit (+10.5) vs NYK (-10.5):  Tonight very well may be the Detroit debut for Jose Calderon.  Even so, I just like New York here. 

Charlotte (+14) vs Miami (-14): I. Hate. Large. Lines.

Portland (+3) vs Minnesota (-3): Minnesota is supposedly shopping Pek to the Blazers.  Not a bad move in my opinion.  I'm a huge Pek fan, especially after his rebounding clinic against the Heat like a month ago.  Yeah, that's how good it was.

Dallas (+8) vs OKC (-8):  The Thunder are 20-3 at home.  Nuff said. 

Sacramento (+8.5) vs Utah (-8.5):  For the past few nights, Sacramento has had some rather enormous lines, and each time they fail to cover.  I don't see tonight being any different.  On another note, I really expected Utah to shop either Paul Millsap or Big Al in favor (no pun intended) of giving Derrick Favors more playing time.  They've stayed quiet so far, but I think they should make a move.

Lock of the night goes to Utah (-8.5).  And to all you NFL fans, never forget: Ray Lewis killed a man.

ATS Picks: Day 12

Tomorrow's games are all in the afternoon, so I just figured I would go ahead and do the day 12 picks tonight.  Only three games tomorrow, prolly cause of the Super Bowl. 


Side note: as I am watching the Michigan vs Indiana game on ESPN, two important things:
1.  Trey Burke is gonna be a stud in the NBA.
2.  Tim Duncan just went down with a sprained knee and ankle, so he gets the picture of the day.  Big shout to Tim Duncan. 

LAC (-1) vs Boston (+1):  I am by no means buying this nonsense that the Celtics are better without Rondo, but I'm really not feelin the Clippers without Chris Paul.  Also, Boston is playing at home, still somewhat drunk under this "lets-prove-we-can-play-without-Rondo" spell. 

LAL vs Detroit:  The line for this one still isn't up, so I'm gonna guess and say it is (-4.5) in favor of the Lakers.  I'll take the Lakers if it is 4.5 points or lower, and I'll take Detroit otherwise.  Interested to see how Dwight plays (if at all) tomorrow.

Miami (-4.5) vs Toronto (+4.5):  Toronto is gonna be bumpin tomorrow, and I just think the adrenaline will be the deciding factor.  Also, Mario Chalmers thinks he is a top 10 point guard.  Love the confidence, but geeze.. c'mon man.

Lock of the day goes to Boston (+1).  I'll end this post with my top 5 point guards, which assumes that all point guards are 100% healthy.

1. Chris Paul
2. Derrick Rose
3. Russell Westbrook
4. Tony Parker
5. Mario Chalmers

Just kidding.

Real #5 -  Rajon Rondo

ATS Picks: Day 11

Last night was another average 6-6 night, putting my cummulative record at 39-37-1 (.513).  I'm also a dork so I completely blanked and forgot to pick a lock for the night.  My record stays at 5-3-1.

I guess last night's highlight was Indiana's big win over Miami.  The Pacers have pretty much found the blueprint for beating this Heat team: just pound it inside and let the post players wear down Bosh and Haslem.  This is exactly why I think Miami should realistically be afraid of physical teams like the Pacers and the Bulls in the playoffs.

I'm not really loving tonight's lineup, partly because of the enormous lines and partly because the games just aren't that good.  Here goes nothing doe.

Chicago (+6.5) vs Atlanta (-6.5):  Chicago absolutely smacked Atlanta when they played a few weeks ago, but tonight the Bulls may be without Noah, Boozer, and Hinrich.  Even so, they stayed with 4 of Brooklyn last night with the same lineup, so I like Chicago here.

Sacramento (+11) vs NYK (-11):  Sacramento is so bad amd they always seem to get blown out.  Plus the game is at MSG and I always like the Knicks at home.

OKC (-10) vs Cleveland (+10):  This is such an ill matchup at PG.  Probably the two most aesthetically pleasing point guards in the leauge to watch (since Rose is out).  Kyrie Irving is a cold-blooded killer in close games, but I just don't see this one staying close.

Charlotte (+12) vs Houston (-12):  Houston can score, and Charlotte can't play D.  Simple as that.

New Orleans (+3) vs Minnesota (-3):  Injuries have destroyed this Timberwolves team.  K Love is the most obvious, but Alexey Shved and Nikola Pekovic have missed a lot of time and they are both quality players.  Who knows where this team would be if they had been healthy all year.

Orlando (+9.5) vs Milwaukee (-9.5):  Orlando is atrocious.

Washington (+13) vs San Antonio (-13):  I don't have much to say about this game so we'll just take this time and dedicate it to Tiago Splitter for staying on his 10.5-a-game grind. Picture of the day goes to you.  Big shout to Tiago Splitter.

Utah (+4) vs Portland (-4):  These teams played last night and Portland played me, so I gotta go with Utah. 

Phoenix (+8.5) vs Golden State (-8.5):  I really hope Steph Curry plays tonight, cause I wanna see this Golden State team in full force.  If you wanna see an excellent breakdown of the Warriors HORNS set, check out this video from +Coach Nick .

Well that just about wraps it up.  Lock of the night goes to NYK (-11).  In other news, the Celtics took another blow and will lose Jared Sullinger for the year.  All I can think about is Bill Simmons' draft diary.

ATS Picks: Day 10

Russ is back! Last night he threw another one of his tantrums (first of the year, I think?), this time because, well, who knows why... but that is not the point.  The point is that this is exactly why I love Russ.  Many people criticize NBA players for playing apathetically, but Russ is anti-apathy.  He plays with raw emotion at all times, even if it means throwing fits and running to the locker room (also notice how he rejects the poor kid at the tunnel).  I love it.  Anyway, this outburst undoubtedly means that he gets the picture of the day.  Big shout to Russell Westbrook.

Last night I went 1-0-1 to put things at 33-31-2 (.516)  for the season (5-3-1 on locks).  Tonight feels like a Wednesday night, with  12 games being played.

Toronto (+4) vs LAC (-4):  Normally I really like Toronto, but Rudy Gay isn't playing until Sunday and I expect the Raptors to experience some initial regression without Jose Calderon (as much as it pains me to say it).

Miami (-2) vs Indiana (+2):  This honestly might be the hardest matchup to choose in all of the league.  The Pacers seem to always play their best ball against the Heat, especially when home, but there is always the potential for a LeBron-goes-for-35-10-10 night.  This kills me.

Orlando (+8.5) vs Boston (-8.5): This pick is 100% out of spite - Danny Ainge came out yesterday and said when Boston played Miami in the 7 game series last year, Rajon Rondo was the best player on the floor.  And here I was, thinking Danny Ainge was a competent basketball figure.  What a joke.   

Cleveland (+4) vs Detroit (-4):  I hope Calderon plays tonight (once again, as much as it pains me to say it).

Chicago (+3) vs Brooklyn (-3):  I don't really have much to say about this game, so let's just take this time to establish the fact that Deron Williams' panther tattoo is the worst tattoo in the league.  Try to tell me I'm wrong.

Milwaukee (+5) vs NYK (-5):  Milwaukee is just too inconsistent, and the game is at MSG.  

Sacramento (+6) vs Philadelphia (-6): I got nothing.

Washington (+6) vs Memphis (-6): If the game weren't in Memphis, I'd definitely pick the Wiz to cover.  But I like the Grizzlies to rebound here after last night's blowout.

New Orleans (+7) vs Denver (-7):  It's such a shame that Denver is in the West, cause I think they could make some noise in the East.  Have fun playing OKC/San Antonio/insert Western juggernaut of your choice in the first or second round. 

Dallas (+3.5) vs Phoenix (-3.5):  Not tryin to overthink this.. Dallas is just better.  Although last night the TNT crew brought up an excellent point: Dallas is playing with six or seven guys who will be free agents at the end of the season.  How do you expect them to play as a team when they have to prove themselves as individuals before free agency?

Portland (+5) vs Utah (-5):  Gahhh I thought long and hard about this one.  Gordon Hayward is out for the Jazz, so I gotta go with Portland.

LAL (-2.5) vs. Minnesota (+2.5):  The Lakers started their seven game road trip with a loss at Phoenix.  Not solid.  If they don't win 4 or 5 of the next 6, you can say goodnight to playoffs.