Hello,
Last night was another solid 2-1 showing. The late night hammer hit again and West Virginia got Bob Huggins paid again. The lesson last night was really never underestimate a Tony Bennett coached team. I did and paid the price. Tonight, we are going with the same formula, 2 NCAAB games and 1 NBA game including a late night hammer. Also, a loyal reader has suggested that I start putting down net gain/loss of units throughout my picks. I have gone through all of the picks and will have them in the overall record section in replacement of the winning percentage. For every pick I make, we are going to assume that 10 units have been wagered. It is up to you to decide how much a unit is worth to you, whether it be $1, $5, $10, etc.. We are definitely on the right side of the unit count, but we can be much higher and we will continue to strive for it.
NBA
New York Knicks at Dallas Mavericks -4.5
In today's version of stupid NBA nicknames, I present to you the New York Knickerbockers, or for short the Knicks. Knickerbockers do not represent a person but rather the style of pants worn by Dutch Settlers in the 1600s who were coming across the Atlantic to find a new life. The pants were as the Knicks website describes it rolled up right below the knee, a very clear symbol for a Dutch Settler I guess. The Knickerbocker style was so popular, New York City's greatest symbol throughout the late 1800's was "Father Knickerbocker" (this is what he looked like). The name came to be after a meeting between team executives led to nicknames being thrown into a hat and the most popular name in the hat was Knickerbocker (thanks for the help Knicks website). So, the team that plays in the "Mecca of Basketball" is named after a pair of pants, super. The only way the knickerbocker would be an appropriate name for a basketball team is if the team actually embraced them and wore them while they were playing. Imagine Melo just hitting a fadeaway jumper with those things on. I mean their shorts end right below the knee, I'm sure it will be a seemingly unnoticeable change in comfort. For actual basketball analysis, the Knicks continue to put forth very little to trust, and the Mavericks are coming off a 49 point beatdown of the Lakers. I think the Mavs keep the momentum going and take down the Knickerbockers handedly.
NCAAB
Rhode Island Rams -4.5 at Richmond Spiders
I have written up the Rams before and mentioned how they were the media's preseason Cinderella darling. The return of E.C. Matthews was so propel the program to a point it has not reached since the days of Lamar Odom. Unfortunately, they have struggled to live up to high expectations. They have gotten off to a rough 12-6 start with some really bad losses to LaSalle and Providence. While some would look at this and think that the media may have overrated the Rams in the preseason, I look it at the other way and know that this team just hasn't reached its full potential. The team is loaded with veteran talent and leadership that should mesh together in the upcoming weeks. Matthews, Hassan Martin, Jarvis Garrett, Kuran Iverson, and Jared Terrell just have too much talent for a team to underachieve throughout an entire season. The Rams have won their past two games and look like may be starting to pick up the pace. They are significantly higher rated in the Kenpom than Richmond and also boast way more talent. Look at this game as the chance to watch the Rams pick up the pace before you watch them become stars in March.
Washington Huskies at Arizona State Sun Devils -4
Bang bang, bang bang, bang bang. That noise is the return of the normally timed hammer. In this game, we have the potential number one draft pick, Markelle Fultz visiting the site of legendary "Wall of Mystery" (while opposing teams are shooting free throws, the student section will surprise the shooter with a mysterious person or act behind the wall). When looking at records, this game does not have too much meaning outside of the Pacific, however back in the day, this game would be stacked across FanDuel and DraftKings games everywhere. With an over/under of 171, sharks and fish alike would be crunching the numbers to fit as many guys from this game in their lineup as possible. Unfortunately, the powers that be felt that only the saints in Las Vegas had shown good behavior and could bet on college kids, while the rest of the country was filled with sinners that were up to no good. So, in honor of the DFS days, I am just going to give out a few individual plays for tonight's gam.
. Markelle Fultz (Washington): The man is going to most likely be the number one pick in this year's draft, and he does everything for this team. 23 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.1 apg, and about a block and half and a steal and a half a game. If he had a DFS salary right now, he would definitely be in the 11k range, which is basically unheard of in the industry.
. David Crisp (Washington): Someone has to be on the end of all of Fultz's assists, and it is usually this man. Crisp leads the Huskies in three pointers made and three pointers attempted, which is incredibly valuable on DraftKings with the three point bonus. Crisp is probably the second best option on the Huskies
. Shannon Evans II/Tra Holder/Torian Graham/Obinna Oleka (Arizona State) - Yeah, picking these four don't necessarily constitute an individual play, but they all play 32+ minutes on a team that is projected to score over 80 points tonight. I wouldn't blame anyone for picking any combination of these four players.
For actual game talk, Washington has won only one road game all year, and it was at Seattle University, which is basically a home game. The Sun Devils should run over a Husky team that is too dependent on their young star.
Yesterday: 2-1
Overall: 30-22-2 (+77 Units)
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Daily Three 1/24
Hello,
So, we got back on track yesterday. A 2-1 effort with the Hawks just completely disappearing. Tonight we are going all basketball as we got two giant college basketball match-ups and a semi-late night hammer in the NBA.
NCAAB
Kansas Jayhawks at West Virginia Mountaineers -3.5
Man, this is going to be another wonderful Big 12 basketball game. For all of the dominance Kansas has had over the years, West Virginia has been dominating head to head match-ups the past few years. I remember three years ago, when a highly-praised freshman for Kansas named Andrew Wiggins went into Morgantown to take on the Mountaineers. The Mountaineers were underachieving but were up to the challenge that day as Juwan Staten led WVU in a stunning victory over the Jayhawks. That was just the start as West Virginia has also won the last two match-ups between the two teams, including a Mountaineer victory over #1 ranked Kansas last season. These three wins have also made coach, Bob Huggins $75,000 richer (he gets 25k for every victory the Mountaineers get over Kansas). Tonight, another highly-touted freshman, Josh Jackson, will be heading to Morgantown. I expect him to suffer the same fate as Wiggins. Despite what the AP poll says, the Mountaineers are actually ranked higher in the Kenpom ratings as the WVU is at #4 while Kansas is a mere #8. I think couches will be burning tonight and Huggins's wallet is going to get a little heavier as the Mountaineers stun the Jayhawks yet again.
Virginia Cavaliers at Notre Dame Fighting Irish -1.5
I am going to use this write-up to talk about the most underrated coach in college basketball, Mike Brey. Constantly in the shadow of their highly overrated football program, Brey has consistently won in difficult conferences (Big East and ACC) and has consistently gotten great athletic talent to South Bend (Jerian Grant, Pat Connaughton, Demetrius Jackson, etc.). Brey has gotten his squad to the Elite Eight the past two seasons, and still his most impressive coaching job might be currently happening. Despite losing stars Jackson and Zach Auguste, the Fighting Irish have managed to jump out to a 17-3 record including a big win over top ten squad Louisville. Irish vets VJ Beachem, Steve Vasturia, and Bonzie Colson have really been carrying the load and have much experience against Tony Bennett and his stout defense at Virginia. I am a little concerned about their disparity in the Kenpom ratings, but I really think home court will make a big difference. Notre Dame will not need the luck of the Irish tonight as Mike Brey shows once again what a great basketball coach he is.
NBA
Utah Jazz at Denver Nuggets -2
Minor bang bang, minor bang bang. It is a semi-late night hammer tonight that includes a nickname discussion. In tonight's version of NBA nicknames, I am going to commend the Denver Nuggets. During their time in the old ABA, the team was actually called the Denver Rockets, because the team owner apparently ran a trucking company called "Ringsbury Rockets" (thank you http://www.remembertheaba.com). Once the team made the move to the NBA in mid-70's, ownership renamed the team the Nuggets in honor of the great rush to the Colorado in the 1800s to find very valuable nuggets thats could change people's lives. Really, any name that puts your team in the same category as gold and silver is cool with me. Also, it is a great tribute to a very historical time in the Rocky Mountains. Anyway, the Jazz are coming off a super tough loss last night to Russell Westbrook and are coming into Denver on short rest. They also have fallen to two point underdogs after starting off a one and a half point favorite even though they have received half of the spread bets. Also, the Nuggets demolished the Jazz the last time these two teams played in Denver. Nikola Jokic will continue is historic run, and the Nuggets will mine for a victory tonight.
Yesterday: 2-1
Overall: 28-21-2 (57%)
So, we got back on track yesterday. A 2-1 effort with the Hawks just completely disappearing. Tonight we are going all basketball as we got two giant college basketball match-ups and a semi-late night hammer in the NBA.
NCAAB
Kansas Jayhawks at West Virginia Mountaineers -3.5
Man, this is going to be another wonderful Big 12 basketball game. For all of the dominance Kansas has had over the years, West Virginia has been dominating head to head match-ups the past few years. I remember three years ago, when a highly-praised freshman for Kansas named Andrew Wiggins went into Morgantown to take on the Mountaineers. The Mountaineers were underachieving but were up to the challenge that day as Juwan Staten led WVU in a stunning victory over the Jayhawks. That was just the start as West Virginia has also won the last two match-ups between the two teams, including a Mountaineer victory over #1 ranked Kansas last season. These three wins have also made coach, Bob Huggins $75,000 richer (he gets 25k for every victory the Mountaineers get over Kansas). Tonight, another highly-touted freshman, Josh Jackson, will be heading to Morgantown. I expect him to suffer the same fate as Wiggins. Despite what the AP poll says, the Mountaineers are actually ranked higher in the Kenpom ratings as the WVU is at #4 while Kansas is a mere #8. I think couches will be burning tonight and Huggins's wallet is going to get a little heavier as the Mountaineers stun the Jayhawks yet again.
Virginia Cavaliers at Notre Dame Fighting Irish -1.5
I am going to use this write-up to talk about the most underrated coach in college basketball, Mike Brey. Constantly in the shadow of their highly overrated football program, Brey has consistently won in difficult conferences (Big East and ACC) and has consistently gotten great athletic talent to South Bend (Jerian Grant, Pat Connaughton, Demetrius Jackson, etc.). Brey has gotten his squad to the Elite Eight the past two seasons, and still his most impressive coaching job might be currently happening. Despite losing stars Jackson and Zach Auguste, the Fighting Irish have managed to jump out to a 17-3 record including a big win over top ten squad Louisville. Irish vets VJ Beachem, Steve Vasturia, and Bonzie Colson have really been carrying the load and have much experience against Tony Bennett and his stout defense at Virginia. I am a little concerned about their disparity in the Kenpom ratings, but I really think home court will make a big difference. Notre Dame will not need the luck of the Irish tonight as Mike Brey shows once again what a great basketball coach he is.
NBA
Utah Jazz at Denver Nuggets -2
Minor bang bang, minor bang bang. It is a semi-late night hammer tonight that includes a nickname discussion. In tonight's version of NBA nicknames, I am going to commend the Denver Nuggets. During their time in the old ABA, the team was actually called the Denver Rockets, because the team owner apparently ran a trucking company called "Ringsbury Rockets" (thank you http://www.remembertheaba.com). Once the team made the move to the NBA in mid-70's, ownership renamed the team the Nuggets in honor of the great rush to the Colorado in the 1800s to find very valuable nuggets thats could change people's lives. Really, any name that puts your team in the same category as gold and silver is cool with me. Also, it is a great tribute to a very historical time in the Rocky Mountains. Anyway, the Jazz are coming off a super tough loss last night to Russell Westbrook and are coming into Denver on short rest. They also have fallen to two point underdogs after starting off a one and a half point favorite even though they have received half of the spread bets. Also, the Nuggets demolished the Jazz the last time these two teams played in Denver. Nikola Jokic will continue is historic run, and the Nuggets will mine for a victory tonight.
Yesterday: 2-1
Overall: 28-21-2 (57%)
Monday, January 23, 2017
Daily Three 1/23
Hello,
Wow, Saturday was a disaster. 1-5 and bailed in the last game by Baylor. Nebraska put up one of the most embarrassing ten minute sequences you will ever see a from a Power Six school, seemingly unable to score a field goal against Rutgers!!!!!!!! Oklahoma was up by nineteen with five minutes left in the first half, then managed to be down by one at the half. In OT, they were up by six with around a minute left, and managed to go to a second overtime, where they would go on to lose. Creighton forgot how to play defense, or Maurice Watson was the greatest defender in the Big East. UCLA and Wisconsin were fair results. Just three tonight, as straying away from that has led to some issues.
NCAAB
TCU Horned Frogs at Oklahoma State Cowboys -4.5
I mentioned on Saturday how competitive the Big 12 was. For more proof, just look at Oklahoma State's strength of schedule. According to Kenpom, they currently have the hardest schedule in the country, even though their non-conference schedule is only ranked at 123. Their other impressive Kenpom stat is that they currently have the fifth most efficient offense in the country. Most of this is due to sophomore point guard Jawun Evans, who is definitely one of the most underrated players in the Big 12. Their opponent was the loser in our only win on Saturday, and I will continue to pick on them. Look, I love Jamie Dixon as much as Forth Worth natives love the beloved Texas horned lizard, but regression was bound to happen with this team. They are starting to fall back down to earth and there will be eventual slide in conference. Take Evans and the Cowboys tonight in Stillwater.
NBA
Los Angeles Clippers at Atlanta Hawks -7
We already mentioned how stupid this LA franchise's name is (it was meant for rival city San Diego. They are still without Chris Paul and Blake Griffin and are flying cross country to Atlanta to play a Hawks team that just wiped the Bulls and Sixers off the floor. Without Paul and Griffin, the Clippers are basically at the same level as the two teams previously mentioned. Don't be scared by the large number of points being given, the Hawks will get them back.
NHL
Florida Panthers at Arizona Coyotes +115
This matchup provides us with the "WTF was Gary Bettman thinking bowl." Despite moving into brand new buildings recently, these two franchises have struggled to gain a fan base and have been in the bottom five in attendance on a consistent basis. Somehow, I have been to games in both cities and the experiences were far from superb. Florida plays in the middle of nowhere in a eerily quiet building with tons of empty seats. Their main sponsor is a goofy, albeit very successful, doctor that gets big applause when he is shown on the jumbotron. The child behind me consistently complained about how bored he was. I'm sorry kid, you've been provided with a bad product, go to Chicago or New York, maybe you can watch a more exciting game. Also, in the concourse, there is probably a beer/wine/liquor kiosk within twenty steps of one another. I guess booze is better than hockey, whatever. Along with their poor game experience, their current owner was just named to the Trump Administration and before this, he had to fire the one successful coach this franchise has had, because his "old school" style clashed with the new analytic driven management (Really second good coach, Peter DeBoer was good as well and currently led the Sharks to the Stanley Cup). The Coyotes game was in their old arena, but it was not very memorable. The only thing I truly remember were the terrible sight lines and the fact that the arena had a McDonald's in it (So cool). The team has been trying to decide whether it should stay in Arizona or not. The building it plays in seemingly wants to get rid of it, and the people in Arizona seem generally unaware that all of this is happening. Anyway, this game is generally meaningless. However, the Panthers will be playing in the last of a long, winding road trip that has seen them lose every game on it. The legs will probably be tired and the 'Yotes will probably take advantage of a rare chance to get a win.
Saturday: 1-5
Overall: 26-20-2 (55%)
Wow, Saturday was a disaster. 1-5 and bailed in the last game by Baylor. Nebraska put up one of the most embarrassing ten minute sequences you will ever see a from a Power Six school, seemingly unable to score a field goal against Rutgers!!!!!!!! Oklahoma was up by nineteen with five minutes left in the first half, then managed to be down by one at the half. In OT, they were up by six with around a minute left, and managed to go to a second overtime, where they would go on to lose. Creighton forgot how to play defense, or Maurice Watson was the greatest defender in the Big East. UCLA and Wisconsin were fair results. Just three tonight, as straying away from that has led to some issues.
NCAAB
TCU Horned Frogs at Oklahoma State Cowboys -4.5
I mentioned on Saturday how competitive the Big 12 was. For more proof, just look at Oklahoma State's strength of schedule. According to Kenpom, they currently have the hardest schedule in the country, even though their non-conference schedule is only ranked at 123. Their other impressive Kenpom stat is that they currently have the fifth most efficient offense in the country. Most of this is due to sophomore point guard Jawun Evans, who is definitely one of the most underrated players in the Big 12. Their opponent was the loser in our only win on Saturday, and I will continue to pick on them. Look, I love Jamie Dixon as much as Forth Worth natives love the beloved Texas horned lizard, but regression was bound to happen with this team. They are starting to fall back down to earth and there will be eventual slide in conference. Take Evans and the Cowboys tonight in Stillwater.
NBA
Los Angeles Clippers at Atlanta Hawks -7
We already mentioned how stupid this LA franchise's name is (it was meant for rival city San Diego. They are still without Chris Paul and Blake Griffin and are flying cross country to Atlanta to play a Hawks team that just wiped the Bulls and Sixers off the floor. Without Paul and Griffin, the Clippers are basically at the same level as the two teams previously mentioned. Don't be scared by the large number of points being given, the Hawks will get them back.
NHL
Florida Panthers at Arizona Coyotes +115
This matchup provides us with the "WTF was Gary Bettman thinking bowl." Despite moving into brand new buildings recently, these two franchises have struggled to gain a fan base and have been in the bottom five in attendance on a consistent basis. Somehow, I have been to games in both cities and the experiences were far from superb. Florida plays in the middle of nowhere in a eerily quiet building with tons of empty seats. Their main sponsor is a goofy, albeit very successful, doctor that gets big applause when he is shown on the jumbotron. The child behind me consistently complained about how bored he was. I'm sorry kid, you've been provided with a bad product, go to Chicago or New York, maybe you can watch a more exciting game. Also, in the concourse, there is probably a beer/wine/liquor kiosk within twenty steps of one another. I guess booze is better than hockey, whatever. Along with their poor game experience, their current owner was just named to the Trump Administration and before this, he had to fire the one successful coach this franchise has had, because his "old school" style clashed with the new analytic driven management (Really second good coach, Peter DeBoer was good as well and currently led the Sharks to the Stanley Cup). The Coyotes game was in their old arena, but it was not very memorable. The only thing I truly remember were the terrible sight lines and the fact that the arena had a McDonald's in it (So cool). The team has been trying to decide whether it should stay in Arizona or not. The building it plays in seemingly wants to get rid of it, and the people in Arizona seem generally unaware that all of this is happening. Anyway, this game is generally meaningless. However, the Panthers will be playing in the last of a long, winding road trip that has seen them lose every game on it. The legs will probably be tired and the 'Yotes will probably take advantage of a rare chance to get a win.
Saturday: 1-5
Overall: 26-20-2 (55%)
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Daily Three (Times Two) 1/21
Hello,
1-2 last night. Oh well. Can't win them all. However, the late night hammer hit yet again. Hope you stayed up to watch the Lake Show. Today, I'm going to write for the huge college basketball slate and will include more than three games. There was no college basketball last Saturday, so let's just call this a make-up.
NCAAB
Nebraska Cornhuskers -2 at Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Rutgers is an embarrassment to the Big Ten. Added to the conference to get the Big Ten Network into homes in the New York metropolitan area, the school has managed to be a train wreck in both football and basketball. Horrible coaching, undisciplined players, and incompetence in the AD's office has put the New Jersey school a notch below the rest of the Big Ten. Nebraska has been on a little bit of a slide since starting 3-0 in conference, but they are receiving the perfect antidote today in the Scarlet Knights. Don't be stupid like the Big Ten, stick with the Cornhuskers and avoid Rutgers.
Iowa State Cyclones at Oklahoma Sooners -2
The Big 12 has just been a grind this year. Every single team, with maybe the slight exception of Texas, has been very competitive this year. The conference has really had parity issues, considering Kansas has won twelve straight conference titles and look to be on their way to a thirteenth straight. With that being said, there are no easy games and that could really be helpful for a conference that has struggled in the Big Dance in recent years (yes, Oklahoma made the Final Four last year, but again, the exception). Speaking of Oklahoma, they just had a huge victory in Morgantown, and the return of Jordan Woodard has really helped get this team back on track. With how unlikeable their football team is, it is quite amazing that the basketball program can be the complete opposite. Lonnie Kruger is a well-respected coach, they had guys like Buddy Hield and Isaiah Cousins and now have Jordan Woodard, who seem to be really good guys. I think the home court advantage will shift this game and sports insights has the Sooners has the contrarian bet with sharp money to boot (we like that). I'm going with OU here.
Marquette Golden Eagles at Creighton Blue Jays -5.5
When making picks, we do our best to keep emotion out of the decision process. However, there are some cases where we just want to cheer for a side that needs it. Earlier this week, it was announced that senior point guard, Maurice Watson Jr., would miss the rest of the season with a Torn ACL. Watson, who transferred to Creighton from Boston University, has been a huge part of this program for the past two seasons and has sparked their return to national relevance. He was leading the country in assists per game with 8.5 assists games and really had the Blue Jays primed to be final four contenders. However, his unfortunate injury has sadly ended his college career and possibly the Blue Jays' championship hopes. With that being said, the Blue Jays have one of the best home court advantages in the country, and with Watson in the building today, I can imagine emotion pushing these guys to a big victory. Expect Marcus Foster to play a giant role in that as the Blue Jays win handedly over Marquette.
Arizona Wildcats at UCLA Bruins -5.5
The Pac-12 basketball schedule is always well-prepared and incredibly easy to understand. Every person should strive to be like the Pac-12 basketball schedule. In the Pac-12, there are six regions with two teams each: Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Southern California, Arizona, and the Rocky Mountains. Each week, one region will go to another region and play two games, and then there are two weeks where each team will play the other team in their region and get essentially a bye date. For example, when we saw UCLA was playing Arizona State on Thursday, we knew that Arizona would be coming into Westwood this weekend for the Pac-12 Game of the Year. I have got to give Sean Miller props for the job he has done with the Wildcats so far this season. Dealing with some uncertainty on his roster and thus a lack of depth, Arizona has managed to jump out to a 17-2 record and asserted themselves as the number one contender to the Bruins. They have managed to do this without their star guard, Alonzo Trier, who will finally be back today after finally clearing the PED/academic (who knows which one is really true) hurdle that tripped him up all year. While this will definitely be huge for the Wildcats in the long-term, I think integrating him back into the lineup for such a big matchup will hurt them today. The guy is a shooter, and he is bound to be a little rusty. Lonzo Ball and Issac Hamilton should continue to have their way even in this hard matchup, and the Bill Walton voodoo should continue to hang around Pauley Pavilion. So, try to catch this high scoring affair and make sure to celebrate the Bruins' victory with some ice cream sandwiches from Diddy Reese.
Wisconsin Badgers -4.5 at Minnesota Golden Gophers
Again, I am obviously biased, but the Badgers should have no problems here. Throughout the seven years that I have been associated with the UW, we have absolutely owned our so-called "rival" in both basketball and football. Throughout this time, we have owned the axe played for in the football game for literally every second I have been a Badger and have only lost to them twice in basketball. The domination shall continue today as the Badger is greater than the Gopher.
Baylor Bears -2 at TCU Horned Frogs
Before I pick against his team, let's give credit to Jamie Dixon for absolutely turning around the TCU basketball program. It has only been half of a season and the Horned Frogs are already better than they have ever been at any point in their Big 12 tenure. Hell, he has them up 31 in the Kenpom ratings. That is unbelievable. Despite the early success, the Baylor Bears are still just a superior basketball team. While I think the game will be close, 2 points is literally one possession. I think Baylor is more than one possession better than TCU, even if the game is being played in Fort Worth. Baylor Bears all day, as we perfect the college basketball slate this saturday.
Yesterday: 1-2
Overall: 25-15-2 (62.5%)
1-2 last night. Oh well. Can't win them all. However, the late night hammer hit yet again. Hope you stayed up to watch the Lake Show. Today, I'm going to write for the huge college basketball slate and will include more than three games. There was no college basketball last Saturday, so let's just call this a make-up.
NCAAB
Nebraska Cornhuskers -2 at Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Rutgers is an embarrassment to the Big Ten. Added to the conference to get the Big Ten Network into homes in the New York metropolitan area, the school has managed to be a train wreck in both football and basketball. Horrible coaching, undisciplined players, and incompetence in the AD's office has put the New Jersey school a notch below the rest of the Big Ten. Nebraska has been on a little bit of a slide since starting 3-0 in conference, but they are receiving the perfect antidote today in the Scarlet Knights. Don't be stupid like the Big Ten, stick with the Cornhuskers and avoid Rutgers.
Iowa State Cyclones at Oklahoma Sooners -2
The Big 12 has just been a grind this year. Every single team, with maybe the slight exception of Texas, has been very competitive this year. The conference has really had parity issues, considering Kansas has won twelve straight conference titles and look to be on their way to a thirteenth straight. With that being said, there are no easy games and that could really be helpful for a conference that has struggled in the Big Dance in recent years (yes, Oklahoma made the Final Four last year, but again, the exception). Speaking of Oklahoma, they just had a huge victory in Morgantown, and the return of Jordan Woodard has really helped get this team back on track. With how unlikeable their football team is, it is quite amazing that the basketball program can be the complete opposite. Lonnie Kruger is a well-respected coach, they had guys like Buddy Hield and Isaiah Cousins and now have Jordan Woodard, who seem to be really good guys. I think the home court advantage will shift this game and sports insights has the Sooners has the contrarian bet with sharp money to boot (we like that). I'm going with OU here.
Marquette Golden Eagles at Creighton Blue Jays -5.5
When making picks, we do our best to keep emotion out of the decision process. However, there are some cases where we just want to cheer for a side that needs it. Earlier this week, it was announced that senior point guard, Maurice Watson Jr., would miss the rest of the season with a Torn ACL. Watson, who transferred to Creighton from Boston University, has been a huge part of this program for the past two seasons and has sparked their return to national relevance. He was leading the country in assists per game with 8.5 assists games and really had the Blue Jays primed to be final four contenders. However, his unfortunate injury has sadly ended his college career and possibly the Blue Jays' championship hopes. With that being said, the Blue Jays have one of the best home court advantages in the country, and with Watson in the building today, I can imagine emotion pushing these guys to a big victory. Expect Marcus Foster to play a giant role in that as the Blue Jays win handedly over Marquette.
Arizona Wildcats at UCLA Bruins -5.5
The Pac-12 basketball schedule is always well-prepared and incredibly easy to understand. Every person should strive to be like the Pac-12 basketball schedule. In the Pac-12, there are six regions with two teams each: Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Southern California, Arizona, and the Rocky Mountains. Each week, one region will go to another region and play two games, and then there are two weeks where each team will play the other team in their region and get essentially a bye date. For example, when we saw UCLA was playing Arizona State on Thursday, we knew that Arizona would be coming into Westwood this weekend for the Pac-12 Game of the Year. I have got to give Sean Miller props for the job he has done with the Wildcats so far this season. Dealing with some uncertainty on his roster and thus a lack of depth, Arizona has managed to jump out to a 17-2 record and asserted themselves as the number one contender to the Bruins. They have managed to do this without their star guard, Alonzo Trier, who will finally be back today after finally clearing the PED/academic (who knows which one is really true) hurdle that tripped him up all year. While this will definitely be huge for the Wildcats in the long-term, I think integrating him back into the lineup for such a big matchup will hurt them today. The guy is a shooter, and he is bound to be a little rusty. Lonzo Ball and Issac Hamilton should continue to have their way even in this hard matchup, and the Bill Walton voodoo should continue to hang around Pauley Pavilion. So, try to catch this high scoring affair and make sure to celebrate the Bruins' victory with some ice cream sandwiches from Diddy Reese.
Wisconsin Badgers -4.5 at Minnesota Golden Gophers
Again, I am obviously biased, but the Badgers should have no problems here. Throughout the seven years that I have been associated with the UW, we have absolutely owned our so-called "rival" in both basketball and football. Throughout this time, we have owned the axe played for in the football game for literally every second I have been a Badger and have only lost to them twice in basketball. The domination shall continue today as the Badger is greater than the Gopher.
Baylor Bears -2 at TCU Horned Frogs
Before I pick against his team, let's give credit to Jamie Dixon for absolutely turning around the TCU basketball program. It has only been half of a season and the Horned Frogs are already better than they have ever been at any point in their Big 12 tenure. Hell, he has them up 31 in the Kenpom ratings. That is unbelievable. Despite the early success, the Baylor Bears are still just a superior basketball team. While I think the game will be close, 2 points is literally one possession. I think Baylor is more than one possession better than TCU, even if the game is being played in Fort Worth. Baylor Bears all day, as we perfect the college basketball slate this saturday.
Yesterday: 1-2
Overall: 25-15-2 (62.5%)
Friday, January 20, 2017
Daily Three 1/20
Hello,
We had another 2-1 night yesterday thanks to great individual efforts from Issac Hamilton and Karl-Anthony Towns. Although the Rangers gave us our only "L" last night, it is encouraging to know that the blog has gotten out to NHL players. After bashing him for abandoning his goalie, Brady Skeji went out and got a goal and an assist last night. Way to prove your worth Brady, now stand up for the King. Anyway, we got three games tonight, 2 NBA and 1 NHL.
NHL
Montreal Canadiens at New Jersey Devils +120
Look, I really don't have much here, I am just taking a gut shot. And if you aren't going to trust my gut shot, then you might as well ignore the rest of my picks that have resulted into a 65% success rate thus far. If you need some reasoning, the Devils are a fairly good home team who are coming off three pretty big wins on the road at Calgary, Vancouver, and Minnesota. Montreal is starting a backup and have had trouble scoring goals lately. The Habs have scored a goal or less in 4 of their last six games. In the other two games, they played Winnipeg and the Rangers, who have been doing wonderful sieve impressions the past couple of weeks. The Canadiens will probably struggle to score goals again tonight, and the Devils will do just enough to get a W.
NBA
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets Over 239.5
Over Over Over. There is a reason Vegas put up this number. Honestly, I think Vegas is scared that they couldn't make it higher. America loves its scoring, and tonight it will get it. So, cheer for ten second possessions that lead to multiple three point baskets. It will happen a lot tonight in Houston.
Indiana Pacers at Los Angeles Lakers +3.5
Bang bang, bang bang, bang bang. The late night hammer just keeps on banging. Tonight, the Lakers will be the hammering away, but first, we must address our stupid NBA nickname of the day, which is of course the Lakers. The Lakers originated in Minneapolis where the name made complete sense. For those coasties out there, Minnesota is known as "the land of 10,000 lakes. With so many lakes in the state of Minnesota, it essentially made every citizen "a laker." Thus, the name aptly represented the people of Minnesota and gave the people much pride. However, like many great things, the good times had to end as the franchise left Minnesota and headed to Los Angeles. Once in LA, the franchise didn't care to change the name and severely disrespected both their old fan base and their new fan base (there are very few lakes in LA). The Clippers must have been influenced by the Lakers decision. Although the name is remarkably stupid, I will give them a pass that I have not given to the Pistons or the Clippers. First, the Lakers are the nickname for my high school (the school was on Lake Ave. and surrounded by a lake). Second, unlike many franchises that refuse to change their name and then end up being terrible organizations, the Lakers were a powerhouse in the league for a long time with Kareem, Magic, Worthy, Shaq, Kobe, and many others. They ran the league and could essentially do whatever they want. So, congrats Buss Family, the name of your team is stupid, but it is acceptable. In regards to the game, what was the NBA thinking? The Pacers played a game in London last Thursday, then got to fly back to Indiana and play a game, then had to fly cross-country for a west coast road trip. That is just awful scheduling. Yes, the Pacers won in Sacramento on Wednesday, but the legs are probably going to start wearing down in LA tonight. Stay up late for the Lake Show starring Julius Randle and enjoy the W you will be rewarded with for doing so.
Yesterday: 2-1
Overall: 24-13-2 (64.9%)
We had another 2-1 night yesterday thanks to great individual efforts from Issac Hamilton and Karl-Anthony Towns. Although the Rangers gave us our only "L" last night, it is encouraging to know that the blog has gotten out to NHL players. After bashing him for abandoning his goalie, Brady Skeji went out and got a goal and an assist last night. Way to prove your worth Brady, now stand up for the King. Anyway, we got three games tonight, 2 NBA and 1 NHL.
NHL
Montreal Canadiens at New Jersey Devils +120
Look, I really don't have much here, I am just taking a gut shot. And if you aren't going to trust my gut shot, then you might as well ignore the rest of my picks that have resulted into a 65% success rate thus far. If you need some reasoning, the Devils are a fairly good home team who are coming off three pretty big wins on the road at Calgary, Vancouver, and Minnesota. Montreal is starting a backup and have had trouble scoring goals lately. The Habs have scored a goal or less in 4 of their last six games. In the other two games, they played Winnipeg and the Rangers, who have been doing wonderful sieve impressions the past couple of weeks. The Canadiens will probably struggle to score goals again tonight, and the Devils will do just enough to get a W.
NBA
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets Over 239.5
Over Over Over. There is a reason Vegas put up this number. Honestly, I think Vegas is scared that they couldn't make it higher. America loves its scoring, and tonight it will get it. So, cheer for ten second possessions that lead to multiple three point baskets. It will happen a lot tonight in Houston.
Indiana Pacers at Los Angeles Lakers +3.5
Bang bang, bang bang, bang bang. The late night hammer just keeps on banging. Tonight, the Lakers will be the hammering away, but first, we must address our stupid NBA nickname of the day, which is of course the Lakers. The Lakers originated in Minneapolis where the name made complete sense. For those coasties out there, Minnesota is known as "the land of 10,000 lakes. With so many lakes in the state of Minnesota, it essentially made every citizen "a laker." Thus, the name aptly represented the people of Minnesota and gave the people much pride. However, like many great things, the good times had to end as the franchise left Minnesota and headed to Los Angeles. Once in LA, the franchise didn't care to change the name and severely disrespected both their old fan base and their new fan base (there are very few lakes in LA). The Clippers must have been influenced by the Lakers decision. Although the name is remarkably stupid, I will give them a pass that I have not given to the Pistons or the Clippers. First, the Lakers are the nickname for my high school (the school was on Lake Ave. and surrounded by a lake). Second, unlike many franchises that refuse to change their name and then end up being terrible organizations, the Lakers were a powerhouse in the league for a long time with Kareem, Magic, Worthy, Shaq, Kobe, and many others. They ran the league and could essentially do whatever they want. So, congrats Buss Family, the name of your team is stupid, but it is acceptable. In regards to the game, what was the NBA thinking? The Pacers played a game in London last Thursday, then got to fly back to Indiana and play a game, then had to fly cross-country for a west coast road trip. That is just awful scheduling. Yes, the Pacers won in Sacramento on Wednesday, but the legs are probably going to start wearing down in LA tonight. Stay up late for the Lake Show starring Julius Randle and enjoy the W you will be rewarded with for doing so.
Yesterday: 2-1
Overall: 24-13-2 (64.9%)
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Daily Three 1/19
Hello,
Sorry for the past few days. I think the blogging from the car messed me up, but I am back with the normal three picks. Unfortunately, Saturday was 1-2 day, but it is okay as we shall make up for it tonight.
NHL
New York Rangers at Toronto Maple Leafs -115
So, this happened Tuesday Night. Yes, that is 6' 3'' Chris Kreider using much smaller Cody Eakin's helmet to bash Cody Eakin in the head. The fight was in retaliation for this run at goaltender Henrik Lundqvist in an earlier game this season. Did you see how no one on the Rangers went after Eakin after the brutal hit. Brady Skeji is literally watching the play unfold and just skates away as if nothing happens. That is absolutely unacceptable, and honestly, Skeji should have been sent down to Hartford immediately after that game. Stand up for the man that has been the heart of your organization for the past decade. Anyway, Kreider played the role of good teammate, albeit a game too late, and managed to whack Eakin in the head with his own head protector. While that was going on, the Rangers were busy giving up 7 goals and showing how deep their issues on the blue line run. The Leafs got all four lines going right now and just beat this Rangers team a week ago in MSG. Go with Auston Matthews and the Leafs tonight in the Air Canada Center.
NBA
Minnesota Timberwolves -1 at Los Angeles Clippers
Today in BS NBA nicknames, we have the Clippers of Los Angeles. According to the team website, the name came to be in their previous city, San Diego. After moving from Buffalo, the franchise held a fan vote to give the franchise a new nickname. The fans decided on the Clipper, which according to Meriam-Webster is a "a fast sailing ship." The name does make a lot of sense for the city of San Diego, arguably one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the country and a very renown port city. The team lasted in San Diego for six years and moved up the coast to LA where they continued to be the Clippers, which really has no significance in LA at all. So, what ownership decided to do to appease fans in San Diego, did not apply to the new fans in LA. I guess this makes sense for a team that once had an openly racist owner, drafted Michael Olowokandi number one overall in a draft, and continues to allow Doc Rivers to make personnel decisions (Just let the man coach, there is a reason this team can't get past the second round). In more bad news for the franchise, Chris Paul has just been ruled out for the next 6-8 weeks and are already missing Blake Griffin for the time being. The "wonderful" bench that Doc has assembled will have to step up big time to make up for the losses of Paul and Griffin. The line opened up at -2.5 for the Clips, but has already shifted to put the T'Wolves as 1 point favorites. This happened despite 60% of spread bets being on LA according to Sports Insights. This can probably be attributed to the fact that 75% of the money is on Minnesota. Go with Towns and Wiggins to get the big victory in Tinseltown.
NCAAB
Arizona State Sun Devils at UCLA Bruins -19
Bang bang, bang bang, bang bang. Oh you know what that sounds means. We got ourselves a late night hammer. Yes, Lonzo Ball is awesome, blah blah blah. Yes, finally Steve Alford and son Bryce are no longer being blamed for UCLA's failures, blah blah blah. This segment is dedicated to one of America's most under-appreciated treasures, Bill Walton. Yes, Mr. Walton is a legendary basketball player, but there is just so much more to him than that. He is a Dead Head, a free spirit, a wonderful biker, wearer of all things tie-dye, father of Luke Walton, wonderful commentator, and just all around great person. Just watch this footage of him on the night of the National College Football Championship. Seriously, he is the greatest. There is nothing I look more forward to in the winter than watching him and Dave Pasch calling Pac-12 basketball games late at night. So for all reasons Bill Walton, take his alma tonight, who should win big against the Sun Devils.
Saturday: 1-2
Overall: 22-12-2
Sorry for the past few days. I think the blogging from the car messed me up, but I am back with the normal three picks. Unfortunately, Saturday was 1-2 day, but it is okay as we shall make up for it tonight.
NHL
New York Rangers at Toronto Maple Leafs -115
So, this happened Tuesday Night. Yes, that is 6' 3'' Chris Kreider using much smaller Cody Eakin's helmet to bash Cody Eakin in the head. The fight was in retaliation for this run at goaltender Henrik Lundqvist in an earlier game this season. Did you see how no one on the Rangers went after Eakin after the brutal hit. Brady Skeji is literally watching the play unfold and just skates away as if nothing happens. That is absolutely unacceptable, and honestly, Skeji should have been sent down to Hartford immediately after that game. Stand up for the man that has been the heart of your organization for the past decade. Anyway, Kreider played the role of good teammate, albeit a game too late, and managed to whack Eakin in the head with his own head protector. While that was going on, the Rangers were busy giving up 7 goals and showing how deep their issues on the blue line run. The Leafs got all four lines going right now and just beat this Rangers team a week ago in MSG. Go with Auston Matthews and the Leafs tonight in the Air Canada Center.
NBA
Minnesota Timberwolves -1 at Los Angeles Clippers
Today in BS NBA nicknames, we have the Clippers of Los Angeles. According to the team website, the name came to be in their previous city, San Diego. After moving from Buffalo, the franchise held a fan vote to give the franchise a new nickname. The fans decided on the Clipper, which according to Meriam-Webster is a "a fast sailing ship." The name does make a lot of sense for the city of San Diego, arguably one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the country and a very renown port city. The team lasted in San Diego for six years and moved up the coast to LA where they continued to be the Clippers, which really has no significance in LA at all. So, what ownership decided to do to appease fans in San Diego, did not apply to the new fans in LA. I guess this makes sense for a team that once had an openly racist owner, drafted Michael Olowokandi number one overall in a draft, and continues to allow Doc Rivers to make personnel decisions (Just let the man coach, there is a reason this team can't get past the second round). In more bad news for the franchise, Chris Paul has just been ruled out for the next 6-8 weeks and are already missing Blake Griffin for the time being. The "wonderful" bench that Doc has assembled will have to step up big time to make up for the losses of Paul and Griffin. The line opened up at -2.5 for the Clips, but has already shifted to put the T'Wolves as 1 point favorites. This happened despite 60% of spread bets being on LA according to Sports Insights. This can probably be attributed to the fact that 75% of the money is on Minnesota. Go with Towns and Wiggins to get the big victory in Tinseltown.
NCAAB
Arizona State Sun Devils at UCLA Bruins -19
Bang bang, bang bang, bang bang. Oh you know what that sounds means. We got ourselves a late night hammer. Yes, Lonzo Ball is awesome, blah blah blah. Yes, finally Steve Alford and son Bryce are no longer being blamed for UCLA's failures, blah blah blah. This segment is dedicated to one of America's most under-appreciated treasures, Bill Walton. Yes, Mr. Walton is a legendary basketball player, but there is just so much more to him than that. He is a Dead Head, a free spirit, a wonderful biker, wearer of all things tie-dye, father of Luke Walton, wonderful commentator, and just all around great person. Just watch this footage of him on the night of the National College Football Championship. Seriously, he is the greatest. There is nothing I look more forward to in the winter than watching him and Dave Pasch calling Pac-12 basketball games late at night. So for all reasons Bill Walton, take his alma tonight, who should win big against the Sun Devils.
Saturday: 1-2
Overall: 22-12-2
Saturday, January 14, 2017
Daily Three 1/14
Hello,
So, our undefeated streak ended last night. I'm sorry, I guess 10-1-1 isn't good enough for you. If you are going to complain about that then get out. I am currently typing on my phone on the way to a mountain, because I am dedicated to my audience (No guarantee I write one tomorrow). So, no two parter today. It would be very tedious. We got NHL, NBA, and NFL. So, lfg.
NHL
St. Louis Blues at San Jose Sharks (-1.5, +180)
I was going to dedicate this write-up to how big of a mess Jake Allen is at the moment. Unfortunately, coach, Ken Hitchcock beat me to it. Hitchcock bashed his goalie Thursday night and now Carter Hutton is starting tonight. In fairness, they are playing the first of a back-to-back, so Hutton gets the start in the Shark Tank, while Allen will start tomorrow in the Duck Pond. However, starting Hutton tonight is essentially Coach Hitchcock waving his white flag and saving his best tender for a more favorable matchup, even if he is currently a mess. Great value and we get to cheer on the beards of Joe Thornton and Brent Burns. Go Sharks here.
NBA
San Antonio Spurs -12 vs Phoenix Suns (Game in Mexico City)
As mentioned, the game is being played in Mexico. Funny story, the Spurs were in Mexico a few years ago to play the Timberwolves, and the game postponed due to smoke in the arena. You cannot make this stuff up, the game was canceled because the smoke made it impossible to see and hard to breathe. Today should get off without any problems. These are two border teams, so great job by the NBA in selecting teams in this international game. I'll take the Spurs here. They are closer to Mexico City, and they are basically the innovators of international flair in the NBA (Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Patty Mills, etc.). All aboard the Pop train in Mexico.
NFL
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons -5.5
I'm sticking with narrative, the Seattle Seahawks are overrated (sorry that hot coffee is dripping from your monitor, you should have been ready for this hot take). Look, the Hawks had the benefit of a star quarterback basically throwing without one of his fingers, and their beloved "12th man." Let's get something straight before I continue with the game; Seattle's 12th man is the biggest fan farce in professional and college sports. They weren't even the original users of the term. That would belong to the Texas A&M Aggies who have had it marked on their stadium for decades. Also, the fans only showed up after Marshawn Lynch's run against the Saints. I mean, JC Seattle, if the Jets had the chance to play the Rams, Niners, and Cardinals once a year at home, they would be able to boast about their home field advantage too. Anyway, Seattle's D will really miss Earl Thomas against the Falcons' aerial attack. Matt Ryan will do enough to maintain his spot as the second best quarterback in the 2008 draft (Joe Flacco is Elite), and the Falcons will be headed to the NFC Conference Championship.
Last Night: 2-1
Overall: 21-10-2
So, our undefeated streak ended last night. I'm sorry, I guess 10-1-1 isn't good enough for you. If you are going to complain about that then get out. I am currently typing on my phone on the way to a mountain, because I am dedicated to my audience (No guarantee I write one tomorrow). So, no two parter today. It would be very tedious. We got NHL, NBA, and NFL. So, lfg.
NHL
St. Louis Blues at San Jose Sharks (-1.5, +180)
I was going to dedicate this write-up to how big of a mess Jake Allen is at the moment. Unfortunately, coach, Ken Hitchcock beat me to it. Hitchcock bashed his goalie Thursday night and now Carter Hutton is starting tonight. In fairness, they are playing the first of a back-to-back, so Hutton gets the start in the Shark Tank, while Allen will start tomorrow in the Duck Pond. However, starting Hutton tonight is essentially Coach Hitchcock waving his white flag and saving his best tender for a more favorable matchup, even if he is currently a mess. Great value and we get to cheer on the beards of Joe Thornton and Brent Burns. Go Sharks here.
NBA
San Antonio Spurs -12 vs Phoenix Suns (Game in Mexico City)
As mentioned, the game is being played in Mexico. Funny story, the Spurs were in Mexico a few years ago to play the Timberwolves, and the game postponed due to smoke in the arena. You cannot make this stuff up, the game was canceled because the smoke made it impossible to see and hard to breathe. Today should get off without any problems. These are two border teams, so great job by the NBA in selecting teams in this international game. I'll take the Spurs here. They are closer to Mexico City, and they are basically the innovators of international flair in the NBA (Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Patty Mills, etc.). All aboard the Pop train in Mexico.
NFL
Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons -5.5
I'm sticking with narrative, the Seattle Seahawks are overrated (sorry that hot coffee is dripping from your monitor, you should have been ready for this hot take). Look, the Hawks had the benefit of a star quarterback basically throwing without one of his fingers, and their beloved "12th man." Let's get something straight before I continue with the game; Seattle's 12th man is the biggest fan farce in professional and college sports. They weren't even the original users of the term. That would belong to the Texas A&M Aggies who have had it marked on their stadium for decades. Also, the fans only showed up after Marshawn Lynch's run against the Saints. I mean, JC Seattle, if the Jets had the chance to play the Rams, Niners, and Cardinals once a year at home, they would be able to boast about their home field advantage too. Anyway, Seattle's D will really miss Earl Thomas against the Falcons' aerial attack. Matt Ryan will do enough to maintain his spot as the second best quarterback in the 2008 draft (Joe Flacco is Elite), and the Falcons will be headed to the NFC Conference Championship.
Last Night: 2-1
Overall: 21-10-2
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