Monday 11/17/14 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

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[superbeets]

English League Two TODAY 19:45

Wycombe

v

Burton

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
SS1		6/5	5/2	5/2	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT WYCOMBE	RECENT FORM
AWHWALHDAWAW​ Most recent​	1 - 2 3 - 0 4 - 1 1 - 3	AWHLAWALHDAL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Wycombe have lost one of their last 13 matches in all competitions

EXPERT VERDICT: Wycombe have been on a magnificent run and are riding high in the League Two table but the visit of Burton will tell us much more about their title credentials. Albion’s road trips are rarely dull, returning an average of three goals per game, and Wycombe score freely too so go for goals.

RECOMMENDATION: Both teams to score
3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Northfield Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Post: 6:00 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 78 - Purse:$5500 - NON WINNERS $400 PER START IN 2014. AE: N/W $3000 IN LAST 5 STARTS THAT ARE N/W $50,000 IN 2014. AE: N/W $30,000 LIFETIME. NO. 9 STARTS FROM 2ND TIER NORTHFIELD HN 8 TALLERTHANWOODY - 1ST TIME LASIX


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 3 MORGANS MAJESTIC 5/2


# 5 I'M LOADED 15/1


# 6 CHIP'S DREAMER 9/2

Really keen on the chance of MORGANS MAJESTIC taking down the winner's share in this race. His 81 average has this gelding among the most competitive TrackMaster Speed Ratings here. With Wrenn in the sulky, watch out for this contender to get the triumph. Deserves a shot given the positive win clip he sports. I'M LOADED - If performance in the last competition is representative, this standardbred will have a very nice shot in this race. High last race speed figure. CHIP'S DREAMER - He's squaring off in fine form, recording very promising TrackMaster Speed Ratings. An excellent selection. The 81 average class stat may give this gelding a distinct edge in the group.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 4 - Post: 8:10 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 80 - Purse:$9000 - CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $12,500. 3 YO 50%, 4 YO 25%, F& M 20%


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 NOWERLAND FIREBIRD 2/1


# 2 GET PACKIN 4/1


# 1 BRENWAY DIXIE 4/1

If you want a really good play here, feast your eyes on NOWERLAND FIREBIRD. Could dominate this pack, just look at the speed rating - 79 - from her last effort. Always excellent driver/conditioner tandem. 24 percent winners when they team up. With superior win percentages, Brennan should have this mare in excellent position to win the contest. GET PACKIN - A respectable play in here as he has one of the highest winning stats in the group of animals as well as tremendous credentials all around. The trainer/horse combo statistics point out that this combination are solid in the money finishers when working with one another. BRENWAY DIXIE - This contender has shown us some ability in the past, just look at the 84 avg class figure. Should play well here. Talk about a dynamic duo, Macdonald and Auciello have some of the best driver-trainer numbers at the track.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Finger Lakes

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 5 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $14000 Class Rating: 80

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 17 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 17 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $15,000.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 7 UNBRIDLED BAND 6/1


# 4 HAVE ANOTHER LOOK 3/1


# 1 DAGGETT 5/1

I think UNBRIDLED BAND is a very strong choice. He has been racing solidly lately while recording strong Equibase Speed Figures. He has a good opportunity for this event as handler, Millersaul, has strong win rate with horses going this distance. Ought to be given consideration based on the very good Equibase Speed Fig recorded in the last competition. HAVE ANOTHER LOOK - Is difficult not to consider based on Equibase speed figs which have been very good - 68 avg - of late. Ferraro has one of the best winning percentages in this group with entries running at this distance and surface. DAGGETT - Will probably come out strong - I have liked the way this gelding has moved promptly to the lead recently.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mountaineer

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 5 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.3f on the Dirt. Purse: $17500 Class Rating: 71

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 9 FLASHY DIMONTINA 5/2


# 4 SKY HIGH BERTIE 2/1


# 1 CORALITA 5/1

FLASHY DIMONTINA is my choice. Has solid Equibase speed figs and has to be considered for a bet in this race. Osorio will most likely be able to get this filly to break out sharply here. Ran a strong last race. SKY HIGH BERTIE - This field is much less demanding than the last one she ran against. The Equibase Speed Fig of 71 from her last affair looks quite good in here. CORALITA - With a solid 56 speed figure last time out, will definitely be a factor in this race. Has very good speed figures and has to be considered for a wager in this event.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Parx Racing - Race #4 - Post: 1:46pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $19,000 Class Rating: 65

Rating: Golden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 ANAYLST (ML=7/2)
#7 IRA (ML=8/1)
#2 CALCULUS (ML=5/2)
#3 NICK'S POSSE (ML=8/1)


ANAYLST - When Delgadillo and Lynch combine forces on animals the ROI has been terrific at +73. This campaigner coming off a strong race in the last 30 days is a contender in my humble opinion. IRA - This gelding is in top form right now. Ran second last out and comes back quickly. Ran a winning race October 30th, but just couldn't conquer the winner. CALCULUS - Alvarado is right back for another event today after sitting atop this equine for the first ride on November 2nd and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. A win pct like 36 is out of sight for any jock/conditioner tandem. Preciado brings him back again. I propose you stick with this strong gelding. Preciado drops him down to this class level. You don't need too much more from the horse's history to think this thoroughbred should run well at this level. NICK'S POSSE - When the real running starts, this colt should be flying down the lane. Was in a $40,000 Maiden Claiming race at Belmont last time around the track. That race had an Equibase class figure of 77 and he is moving down right here. A certain solid contender. Entered a $40,000 Maiden Claiming race at Belmont in the last race and raced on a sloppy track finishing fourth. Will most certainly do better in this field. This animal is going to run 1 mile today for the very first time. A good thing since the trainer, Wyner, has a great win percent stretching horses out. Just see his latest speed fig, 66. That one fits in this group.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2X HOT STOCKER (ML=5/2), #1 RACINO ROYALE (ML=5/1), #1A BROAD LOVER (ML=5/1),

HOT STOCKER - Difficult to take this mount at this price after the result (fourth) in the last race. RACINO ROYALE - 5/1 odds isn't enough for this participant when scrutinizing the most recent outings. BROAD LOVER - Unlikely that the speed figure he registered on Nov 2nd will hold up in this race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #7 IRA on the nose if you can get odds of 6/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [3,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

** Some or all wagers above involve entries and assume all parts of entry start the race **

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Gulfstream West - Race #8 - Post: 3:58pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $20,000 Class Rating: 76

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#9 KID GAVILAN (ML=3/1)
#2 TARIFF (ML=4/1)


KID GAVILAN - Equibase speed figures on the grass point to this horse as a legit contender. Has the best in the field for this dist-surf. Taking a trip down the class scale; has the ability to make his presence felt. Out of the money finish last race out at Gulfstream West was better than it looked on paper. He improved position in the lane and never gave up. This animal wins a lot of money per start. In the top spot in this race. TARIFF - This horse didn't run well on the soft turf in his last race at Belmont. You should throw out that showing. PP data show this thoroughbred with three improving speed figures. Zimmerman should be on a live one right here.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 VARIABILITY (ML=5/1), #8 AFFIRMED A SEVEN (ML=6/1),

VARIABILITY - The pace scenario just isn't too promising for this early speedster. Many other horses would have to scratch to promote his dreams at winning. This colt earned a speed figure in his last event which probably isn't good enough today. AFFIRMED A SEVEN - Morning line of 6/1 make this racer a pass by my criteria.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Turf Man - KID GAVILAN - Last race turf figure for this gelding is superior to the rest of these entrants. You would be wise to consider wagering on this steed.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #9 KID GAVILAN on the win end if we get at least 6/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,9]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 11/17 Analysis
By Greg Gangle

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet: JABAS LUCK (9th)

Spot Play: SIX BAX (6th)


Race 1

(2) DREAMFAIR BOGART will make his second start in the Baillargeon barn and hopefully the gelding can bounce back following a sub-par effort last week at a low price. (1) HELD IN BALANCE draws the rail and comes will make his second start in this class for trainer Tony Montini. (9) MUSICAL SPELL has been facing horses of younger age in the NW2 or $40K life classification that he's been racing in and now drops into this bottom class on the WEG Circuit.

Race 2

(8) UFDRAGONS ROCKET has been racing against tougher competition as of late and now drops into this claiming event and should get a lot more respect. (6) RAVE ON has been the picture of consistency at this level all season and comes from top connections in trainer Corey Johnson and driver Randy Waples. (7) JAC SPADE was a winner in his latest at this level and faces a similar bunch again this week.

Race 3

(1) ZEUS LIGHTNING hasn't raced since Oct. 20, which is a concern, but the veteran draws the rail in this level that he should be very comfortable with. (2) MMS LUCKY BOY has been knocking on the door as of late at this level and can't be overlooked for the exactor. (3) ROCKYS FIRST draws inside and gets Jody Jamieson in the bike, which will influence his price.

Race 4

(7) MAJOR HOTTIE is full of back class and is a good option in this wide-open tilt. (4) DREDYL HANOVER will make his third start back after having some time away from the track and is starting to find his legs for trainer Gord Remmen. (9) NOBESTBFOR will need to overcome post 10, which isn't easy to do, but he comes from the Baillargeon and was a beaten favourite last week in this class.

Race 5

(2) J JS DELIVERY draws inside and will make his sixth career start for trainer Shawn Robinson. (7) READ THE PROPOSAL shows speed in the 1:54-1:55 range and is one of the most experienced youngsters in this dash. (3) NATURESCAPE draws inside again this week and the gelding comes from the Gregg McNair barn.

Race 6

(5) SIX BAX dropped into a claimer last week and was assigned a post 10 begin. Driver Mario Baillargeon utilized the gelding's gate-speed as he made the front, but tired down the stretch. (7) PROGEGE SEELSTER has over $300K of back class to offer and continues to be a major player when racing at this level. (6) HOLY MOLIE MAGGIE doesn't like to win as her one-for-22 record suggests, but has hit the board in 15 of 22 starts this season.

Race 7

(6) OCEANVIEW BINDI was a winner two starts back in this class then followed it up with a third-place effort last week. (8) BEST RISQUE has been a frequent competitor in this class for many months and can't be overlooked with her consistency and solid on-the-board percentage. (7) ALL CHOCOLATE has drawn poorly in two of his last three starts, but draws a little better in here this evening

Race 8

(4) NORTHERN VICTORY is a talented trotter that draws inside and drops in class for trainer Joe Cirasuola. (6) NOWUCIT NOWUDONT has posted back-to-back wins since entering the Per Henriksen barn and the talented trotter has found his form again. (8) BUDDY HALLY tends to race rather inconsistently for Team McNair, but drops in class and perhaps that will be the recipe for a better result.

Race 9

(6) JABAS LUCK comes from a high percentage trainer in Bob Young and the seven-year-old was a winner last week in this class. (9) DAZZLE N DELIGHT has been a main threat in this class over the past few weeks and will offer a low price again in here. (8) EXHILARATED has been a fringe player in this class for many weeks and continues to get cheques for trainer Rob Fellows.

Race 10

(7) TURBO MACH will make his second career start for trainer John Pentland and the sophomore raced very well last week in his pari-mutuel debut. (3) SHARK LEAP HANOVER finally draws inside this week after a pair of outside post positions. (4) WHISTLE JIMMY K is the youngster full brother to Ontario Sires Stakes graduate I Found My Beach (1:50 1/5 - $500K) and the Mach Three son will be making his first career start.

Race 11

(8) APPLE PIE ANGEL looks like the most logical option to pick on top in this dash with her winning form. (7) MAJOR HANGOVER has hit the board in each of her last six starts and comes from the Vic Puddy barn. (9) TOMEI SEELSTER comes from a very high percentage trainer in Jim Stewart and the youngster has hit the board in four of her last five starts.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Northfield: Monday 11/17 Analysis + Pick Four ticket
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 8 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Jeremey’s $1 Pick Four Play:

1,2,3,6,8,9 / 5,8 / 1,3,6 / 3 = $36


Best Bet: ROADSIDE DELIGHT (11th)

Spot Play: ACTION METRO MAX (6th)


Race 1

In a wide open race (6) CHIP'S DREAMER finds a softer bunch and just needs to ration out his speed for a chance. (5) I'M LOADED bumps up in class off a nice victory; threat. (1) CONTECH mare gets the best post in an inconsistent field.

Race 2

(3) U BETTOR WATCH OUT gets sent out for proven connections in a weak field. (4) WARDOG HALL showed a good burst of speed last out which the pacer hadn't shown in quite some time; threat. (6) R I P SPANKY gelding races exactly like the trainer's other horses. He's capable of blowing the doors off the field like he did a few back or coming up completely empty.

Race 3

(5) FRIDAYSCOMIN is on a huge roll and looks to be full of trot if he stays on gait. (6) BUCK I TIME needs to stay trotting as well but went an excellent effort last out. (2) SOULFUL DELIGHT takes a significant drop down and owns back class.

Race 4

(7) BOLERO ANDREW a repeat of his last effort makes him tough to beat. (3) LIVELIKEURDYING gets sent out for streaky connections but has just missed in his last two. (9) OIL SLICKER does his best racing from up front which doesn't look likely; use underneath.

Race 5

In an evenly matched race (4) OLIN has been facing better, picks up the top driver, and a good effort puts him close. (5) SOUTH JERSEY HONEY looks to just now be in racing shape off the layoff and also faces easier. (6) CODY COY has been racing better than his lines indicate and will offer a big price.

Race 6

(7) ACTION METRO MAX has been competitive against much tougher at the track this year. (9) HALLIN rarely wins but is capable of a big mile at this level. (1) QUIK GROOM tough to leave the trainer's horses off the top spot; threat.

Race 7

(2) TUNEARIFFIC takes a big jump in class but can handle these when right. (4) ONHISHONOR HANOVER is very tough when making the top and will have his sights set on just that. (5) JAGGER BLUE CHIP makes his third start back off a long layoff and looks to have more to offer.

Race 8

(1) MASTER STOKE well bred gelding doesn't own a ton of gate speed but should have a shot turning for home. (2) LOST JEWELS pacer's best is good enough; versatile. (6) WINBAK DIMENSIONS veteran stallion is racing gamely and has a shot with a good setup.

Race 9

(8) VICTORY IS COMING trotting mare is the fastest horse in the field by far and just needs to find a way into the race. (5) ZORGWIJK HEAVENLY keeps the top driver and showed a big move last out; threat. (9) MARY'S DARVIN gelding has a good late kick and could be the sleeper in the race.

Race 10

(1) GRANDE SEELSTER gets sent out for capable connections with the best post. (6) BETTOR'S CHOICE has been knocking on the door and faces significantly easier. (3) PLAYIN FOR KEEPS gelding pacer is dangerous forwardly placed.

Race 11

(3) ROADSIDE DELIGHT will look to make it two straight; fires early. (4) TOP OF THE MARK well bred stallion looks to be sitting up close and could be the only threat to the top choice. (2) LONESOME ATTACK is racing gamely but could need to shake loose and find room late; use underneath.

Race 12

(4) HUSTLINHANNAH was an easy winner at this level last out before making a break in the open; top driver's choice. (6) CALLING A VICTORY needs a smooth trip but fits nicely with this group. (5) IMJISPINETANKU mare has shown a decent burst of speed but needs some racing luck to hit the top spot.

Race 13

(5) EDDIE SWEAT has made the most money in the field on the year and will be firing early. (1) POWER ROCK gelding gets the best post and owns a good burst of speed off the gate. (2) SASSY OSBORNE went a huge effort first over last start and will offer a nice price.

Race 14

(3) TRUE TO MACH should be much closer turning for home with the better post. (6) BURSTING BLAZE looks terrible on paper and faces tougher but the trainer is always a threat off bad looking lines out of the blue. (1) IMA NUISANCE gets the best post and has been competitive at this level.

Race 15

In an evenly matched race (5) MORELAND FLASH has beaten much better on the year. (4) ASTOUNDING HANOVER gelding could be in line for a nice trip for capable connections. (8) NO SHENANIGANS has been unstoppable in four straight but faces much tougher from the worst post.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 11/17 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS


MEET STATS: 337 - 986 / $1779.90 BEST BETS: 55 - 81 / $179.00

Best Bet: JERSEY BOY (5th)

Spot Play: JUSTCALLMEARNOLD (11th)


Race 1

(1) IRA'S BIG GUY drops back down to the winning level and clearly looks like the one to beat from this inside post position. (6) VIPER HANOVER gave way quickly to pressure last week but didn't totally collapse in a strange effort; speed threat again. (3) TRIPLE MAJOR gets some post relief after having an impossible trip.

Race 2

(3) PASADENA STAR ships from Canada where he may have been facing better; 3-year-old seems to have found a good spot. (4) DELANO goes second start for live connections. (1) SING OUT was uninvolved last week in his return from vacation; from this spot he may have to choice but to be forwardly placed.

Race 3

(7) FEELING CAM LUCKY has put in two decent efforts since arriving locally; 2-year-old was Sears' choice of three despite the outside post. (2) UPPERCUTZ should go well from this improved post. (3) FOX VALLEY IBIS appeared to make up good ground after breaking in his local debut.

Race 4

(3) MAGIC CHEQUE drops to the basement claiming level and should be competitive here. (4) NOWERLAND FIREBIRD was a solid trip-sitting winner last week. (7) FLASHY LADY drops in price for the third consecutive start but the mare is stuck outside with little early speed.

Race 5

(7) JERSEY BOY looked like a winner last Sunday afternoon in that added-distace event but he jumped a stray pylon top stretch and broke. Gelding can redeem himself tonight. (3) ONE MORE KID behaved himself last week and trotted an even mile; gets post relief tonight. (8) LEXUS AMIGO was well driven from the eight hole last week and he's stuck outside again.

Race 6

(3) BRENT MONTANA put in a big uncovered try before tiring in his debut for new connections; he deserves another look tonight. (7) JONES BEACH returns for Allard and he looks like a good fit here. (1) SHOW ME UP didn't race badly last out getting beaten by a longshot going a big trip.

Race 7

(4) GREYSTONE CASH is on some sort of roll and he can clearly take another. (3) TALKTOMECOURAGE N is back up in class off a big effort. (1) FOUR CORNERS seems to be a shell of his former self, but I said that about the top choice a couple of months ago and look what he's done.

Race 8

(3) MY LAST CHANCE showed serious improvent in his last start and he could be a price play from this spot. (4) VENGANCE and (6) DIAMOND SAID are both speed threats and are both currently sharp.

Race 9

(4) GRANTOR HANOVER faces a very suspect field tonight and Dube may be able to work out a live trip from this midpack post. (3) IDEAL CARVER is clearly feeling good again and he can handle the hike in class. (1) DANCING IN TERROR is another that should appreciate the post relief.

Race 10

(2) CANADIAN EDITION has hit the board in six of seven for the tough Allard/Sears combo; colt is clearly the one to beat here. (4) CARRACCI HANOVER folded on the front end upon arrival in a no-excuse effort; better is expected. (1) WELL TO DO looks best of the rest from this spot.

Race 11

(4) JUSTCALLMEARNOLD just missed last out at a big price; youngster seems to be getting better and must be followed. (5) DETROIT RAPPER ships from Ohio in razor-sharp form. (2) BLIND EYE debuts for the Allard barn and the filly draws nicely.

Race 12

(3) MIDNIGHT DUDE was in a tough spot in his local debut and understandably didn't fire; more can be expected tonight. (2) MOLIERE HANOVER gets post relief but loses Bartlett. (4) CARD SHOCK has been ultra-impressive in his last two but note that he was sold and now goes for new connections.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Finger Lakes (5th) Unbridled Band, 6-1
(8th) Wistful Wildcat, 6-1


Gulfstream Park West (9th) Wild Horse Annie, 8-1
(10th) Nora's Music, 3-1

Mountaineer (2nd) Whiskeyontherocks, 4-1
(4th) Afleet Chill, 8-1


Parx Racing (2nd) Secret Sea, 4-1
(5th) Nick's Posse, 8-1


Turf Paradise (3rd) Dugan Bill, 3-1
(8th) Sandys Diamond, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Grand Salami - November

The Grand Salami in pro hockey is decided by adding up all the goals scored in every game scheduled for that particular day. You can wager on 'over' or 'under' the Grand Salami total. The total is set by adding up all listed 'over/under' odds for each game on that particular day.

Note: The Grand Salami will have no action if any game is suspended or cancelled before the regulation time of three twenty minute periods. Also, regardless of the number of goals scored during the shoot out portion of the overtime, the final scored recorded for the game will give the winning team on more goal than its opponent based on the score at the end of regulation time.

*The majority of sportsbooks do not put out a total on the Grand Salami when there is only one game on the card. For tracking purposes, we will continue to show the 'over/under' for goals and combined goals scored on days with just one game.

NHL GRAND SALAMI

Date No. of Games Total Goals Combined Goals Scored Result
11/1 12 64 54 UNDER
11/2 7 36.5 39 OVER
11/3 1 5 7 OVER
11/4 12 65.5 56 UNDER
11/5 3 15.5 15 UNDER
11/6 10 54.5 56 OVER
11/7 5 26.5 26 UNDER
11/8 12 63.5 77 OVER
11/9 5 27.5 29 OVER
11/10 2 10.5 11 OVER
11/11 11 60.5 60 UNDER
11/12 2 11 18 OVER
11/13 9 49 53 OVER
11/14 6 32.5 28 UNDER
11/15 12 64.5 62 UNDER
11/16 6 31.5 33 OVER
11/17 1 - - -

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Preview: Lightning (12-4) at Rangers (7-6)

Date: November 17, 2014 7:00 PM EDT

The Tampa Bay Lightning got back on track by snapping the winning streak of one of the New York Rangers' area rivals. They'll try to jump back atop the Eastern Conference on Monday night when they visit a Rangers team struggling lately to get in the win column.

The game promises to be an emotional reunion for several players on both sides, especially Lightning forward Ryan Callahan, the ex-New York captain who will face his former team for the first time since being traded in March.

Tampa Bay (12-4-2) avoided a third straight loss with a 5-2 victory over the Islanders on Saturday, knocking off a team that had won five in a row. Five Lightning players scored and 11 recorded at least a point as the club moved to 7-1-1 over its last nine.

Cedric Paquette scored for the fourth time in five games for the Lightning, who top the NHL with 66 goals and have a chance to leapfrog idle Montreal for first in the East.

"I thought for the most part, barring probably the last six, seven minutes there, we played a solid hockey game," coach Jon Cooper told the team's official website. "It was good to see. Good response."

Callahan seems likely to receive a positive response from fans as he plays at Madison Square Garden as a visitor for the first time. Beloved for his gritty style and leadership in seven-plus seasons in New York, the career Ranger was swapped for Martin St. Louis when he and the organization couldn't agree on a contract extension.

Callahan, who signed a six-year deal with Tampa Bay in June, had a goal and an assist Saturday and is off to a strong start with six goals and seven assists in 13 games. The Lightning are 11-0-0 since his arrival when he scores a goal.

Forward Brian Boyle and defenseman Anton Stralman, both of whom played key roles in the Rangers' run to the Stanley Cup finals before signing with Tampa Bay, will also be making their returns to MSG.

They'll face a Rangers team that thought it had secured an elusive win its last time out, only to find out it hadn't before going on to a 3-2 shootout loss at Pittsburgh on Saturday. Former Lightning defenseman Dan Boyle appeared to have scored the winner in the tiebreaker, but the goal was disallowed after video review showed he hit the puck a second time on a rebound.

New York dropped its fourth straight shootout after both teams returned from the dressing rooms. The Rangers are 2-2-4 in the last eight and have lost four of five, though they've earned points in three straight.

"You think you have the two points and you relax and just enjoy that moment, and then you have to go back out there and have everything to lose and they had everything to win in that situation," goaltender Henrik Lundqvist told the Rangers' official website. "It's definitely frustrating."

Lightning star Steven Stamkos has three goals and three assists in his last six games. St. Louis, set to face his former team for the first time since January 2000 when he played for Calgary, scored against the Penguins and has five goals and two assists in his past seven contests.

Ben Bishop, who improved to 10-2-2 with 27 saves Saturday, is 5-0 with 0.91 goals-against average and two shutouts in five games - four starts - against the Rangers.

Tampa Bay has won four of the past six meetings, taking the most recent at MSG by a 2-1 score Jan. 14. Bishop bested Lundqvist with 33 saves.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Preview: Bulls (7-3) at Clippers (5-3)

Date: November 17, 2014 10:30 PM EDT

Chris Paul isn't taking for granted the work DeAndre Jordan is doing to keep the Los Angeles Clippers competitive defensively and on the boards.

The Chicago Bulls excelled in those areas in recent years, but they're struggling to find consistency this season.

The Clippers seek consecutive wins for the first time since a 2-0 start when they try to end Chicago's best road start in 18 years Monday night.

Although it ranks near the bottom of the league with a minus-5.4 rebounding margin and is in the bottom third with 102.4 points allowed per game, Los Angeles (5-3) is showing improvement, thanks in part to Jordan.

The center ranks among the NBA leaders with 11.9 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game. He made his mark Saturday with a season-high 18 rebounds, 12 points and a season-high seven blocks in a 120-107 home win over Phoenix.

Jordan is set to play in his 249th consecutive regular-season game, the longest active streak in the league. He can tie Freeman Williams for third place in team history behind Randy Smith (595) and Michael Brooks (293).

"D.J. is one of those guys that thankfully doesn't miss games,' said Paul, who scored a season-high 32 points. 'I almost couldn't imagine him not out there, because he covers so much on the defensive end.'

After getting outrebounded in each of their first six contests, the Clippers have held the advantage in their last two with Jordan totaling 31 boards. They've limited opponents to a 39.0 field-goal percentage in those contests after allowing a 49.1 mark in their first six.

The Bulls (7-3) have been in the top 10 in the league in rebounding margin the past five seasons and were ranked in the top three in points allowed in the last four, but they haven't been nearly as good in those areas in 2014-15.

Chicago's minus-2.5 rebounding margin is in the bottom third of the league, and it's giving up 97.9 points per game. The Bulls were outrebounded 46-34 and allowed depleted Indiana to shoot 48.1 percent in a 99-90 home loss Saturday.

"It's all effort; we've got to attack the ball and go get it," guard Jimmy Butler told the NBA's official website.

The Bulls have given up averages of 95.8 points and 41.0 percent shooting during a 5-0 road start, their best since winning their first six in 1996-97.

They'll attempt to extend that success as they open their annual circus trip, this one made up of seven games in 15 days.

"I think it's going to be fun," Butler said. "We get to spend a lot of time around each other."

Chicago lost Derrick Rose to a season-ending knee injury on the second stop of its 1-5 circus trip last season. Now Rose's status is uncertain again after he sat out Saturday due to a hamstring injury.

Rose has averaged 31.7 points and 11.7 assists in his last three meetings with the Clippers. He hasn't faced them since December 2011, though.

Jimmy Butler, averaging a team-high 21.3 points, could help pick up the scoring slack after he had a career-high 32 on Saturday.

Blake Griffin has scored 26.3 per game - his highest against any opponent - in seven career matchups with Chicago.

Los Angeles has won the last four meetings by an average of 20.5 points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA game roundup: Knicks end skid
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

NEW YORK -- Halting their seven-game losing streak, the New York Knicks knocked off the Denver Nuggets 109-93 Sunday at Madison Square Garden.

Forward Carmelo Anthony and shooting guard J.R. Smith poured in 28 points for the Knicks, who reached the century mark for the second straight game. Smith made his first start of the season.

Denver placed five players in double figures, led by shooting guard Arron Affalo's 18 points. Point guard Ty Lawson added 17 points, power forward Kenneth Faried scored 16, small forward Wilson Chandler had 11 and forward Darrell Arthur had 10 points off the bench.

The Nuggets lost for the seventh time in eight games.


Warriors 136, Lakers 115

LOS ANGELES -- Despite allowing 44 points to Kobe Bryant, Golden State pounded Los Angeles.

Guard Stephen Curry scored 30 points and dished out 15 assists in three quarters as the Warriors captured their third in a row and dealt the Lakers a fourth straight defeat. Curry connected on 10 of 19 shots, including five of nine 3-point attempts.

Golden State reserve center Marreese Speights finished with a season-high 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Guard Klay Thompson had 18 points, center Andrew Bogut scored 15 and pulled down 10 rebounds, and forward Harrison Barnes added 14 points.


Bucks 91, Heat 84

MIAMI -- Milwaukee won for the third time in four games, dominating the second half and defeating slumping Miami. The Bucks outscored the Heat 53-38 after halftime.

Point guard Brandon Knight, a hometown star who played at Fort Lauderdale Pine Crest School, hit three huge 3-pointers in the final three minutes to lead Milwaukee. He finished with a game-high 20 points. Each of Knight's 3-pointers came after the Heat closed the deficit to four or fewer points.

In addition to Knight, the Bucks got good work from rookie forward Jabari Parker, who had 13 points, six rebounds and two steals.


Rockets 69, Thunder 65

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Guard James Harden scored 19 points, leading Houston to a victory over Oklahoma City.

The Rockets got the ball with 38 seconds left and leading by three. Harden attempted another long 3-pointer and missed. The Thunder corralled the rebound with 16 seconds to go.

Guard Jeremy Lamb inbounded the ball to guard Reggie Jackson at the top of the key. Jackson dribbled the ball a few times then took a contested 3-pointer that hit the back of the rim. Houston got the rebound and closed out the contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Magic rookie Gordon out with fractured foot
The Sports Xchange

Orlando Magic rookie power forward Aaron Gordon is out indefinitely after fracturing a bone in his left foot, the team announced Sunday.

Gordon, 19, was injured Saturday night against the Washington Wizards. An X-ray confirmed the injury. He will be further evaluated.

The 6-foot-9 Gordon is averaging 5.8 points and 3.0 rebounds in 11 games this season.

The Magic selected Gordon with the No. 4 overall pick in the draft.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Rockets perfect on road, Griz flawless at home
Stephen Campbell

Something has to give in Monday's meeting between the Houston Rockets and the Memphis Grizzlies in Tennessee.

The Rockets (8-1 SU) are a perfect 5-0 on the road this year, while the Griz (9-1 SU) have gone a flawless 5-0 at home.

According to oddsmakers, home court advantage is enough to make Marc Gasol's squad 3-point favorites. The total for the affair is sitting at 190.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Spurs listed as -15.5 home faves vs. Sixers
Stephen Campbell

On paper it looks like a huge mismatch, but the spread numbers behind San Antonio's and Philadelphia's games this season may surprise you.

The Sixers (0-9 SU) have looked overmatched on plenty of occasions so far in the young NBA season, but they're 4-5 against the spread. Despite owning a 5-4 SU record, the defending champs are just 3-6 ATS in those contests.

Oddsmakers currently have San Antonio listed as 15.5-point home faves with an O/U of 197.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Basketball Betting: Streaks, Tips, Notes

Philadelphia Sixers at San Antonio Spurs November 17, 08:30 EST

Offensively/defensively challenged Sixers scoring 90.0 per/contest while giving up 106.0 are winless at 0-9 (4-5 ATS). Historically, Sixers have not done well as underdogs in the Texas Triangle as they're 2-9-1 ATS last twelve trips into the state going 1-3 ATS vs Rockets, 1-2-1 ATS vs Mavericks and 0-4 ATS running the hardwood in Spurs back-yard. Philadelphia 1-19 last twenty visits to San Antonio (8-11-1 ATS) sportsbooks are not giving Philadelphia much of a chance as they're 16.0 point underdogs.