Monday 3/30/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

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[superbeets]

English League Two TODAY 19:45

Burton

v

Stevenage

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
SS1		19/20	5/2	10/3	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT BURTON	RECENT FORM
ALHLAWHWHWAW​ Most recent​	0 - 2 2 - 0 3 - 0 2 - 1	ADHWHWADADHL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Burton have won nine of their last 11 home matches

EXPERT VERDICT: Four successive wins have put Burton in the League Two driving seat and their impressive home record can be further improved against Stevenage. The Hertfordshire outfit have won one away game in six – at lowly Hartlepool – and a trip to the Pirelli appears a tough assignment.

RECOMMENDATION: Burton
2

 

[superbeets]

International Tu 31Mar 19:45

Italy

v

England

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
ITV		6/5	23/10	9/4	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSIN ITALY	RECENT FORM
AWHWAWHDHWAD​ Most recent​	1 - 0 0 - 0 2 - 1 1 - 0	AWHWAWHWAWHW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: England are unbeaten in their last seven away games

EXPERT VERDICT: England acquitted themselves well against a poor Lithuania side at Wembley on Friday but face a more demanding test when they face Italy in Turin. Italy came from behind to seal a 2-2 draw away to Bulgaria on Saturday but are a team in transition and may have to settle for a second stalemate in four days.

RECOMMENDATION: Draw
1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows

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


Race 14 - Post: 5:15 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 82 - Purse:$6200 - CLAIM $8000 W/A


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 6 SJ'S SUPER STAR 12/1


# 9 TOO SALTY 4/1


# 4 MYOLOGY 5/1


After thorough analysis by the handicapping group, SJ'S SUPER STAR comes out as the top selection and just look at the nice morning line. He's doing work in fine form, recording very promising TrackMaster Speed Ratings. An excellent pick. Has a strong shot for this one, if he can perform to his back racing class. Gelding has one of the strongest win figures in the bunch and that could be the deciding factor when they head for home. TOO SALTY - Certainly did like this gelding's last race. Ran a strong 74 speed rating. Major player. Deserves a shot given the better than average win clip he sports. MYOLOGY - When Kennedy sends this solid standardbred out you can bet they'll be in the top three, figures show them there 53 percent of the time. Formidable driver/handler, winning 19 percent of the time. Seems to be a excellent bet.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Monticello Raceway

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


Race 8 - Post: 3:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 80 - Purse:$4900 - FM NW $330 P/S L/6 OR P/S 2014-15 OR 2015 AE: NW 7 PM LT AE: $7500 CLM W/A


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 FOX VALLEY AMANDA 5/2


# 1 MAKE IT KATE 4/1


# 3 IM A NICE GIRL 3/1


FOX VALLEY AMANDA is the most competitive wager in this outing. Feel the need for speed, this race horse has been turning in some great speed figures averaging around 82. Enters this race with competitive TrackMaster class figures relative to the bunch - take a good look. MAKE IT KATE - It's risky to consider solely based on class, but this mare has among the strongest class numbers of the field of starters. With a very nice 77 TrackMaster Speed Rating last time out, will definitely be a factor in this race. IM A NICE GIRL - Has very good TrackMaster Speed Ratings and very likely has to be considered for a bet today. Had one of the most respectable TrackMaster Speed Ratings of the field in her last race. I'd recommend using in your wagers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mountaineer

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $6200 Class Rating: 65

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE FEBRUARY 28 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 NAJASEEHIMNAJADONT 8/1


# 5 NAPA VALLEY (BRZ) 8/5


# 1 ALL NATIONS 7/2


I think NAJASEEHIMNAJADONT is a strong choice especially at such a decent 8/1. With a competitive 68 speed figure last time out, will surely be a factor in this contest. Has longshot potential and could win at boxcar odds. The big drop in class can only help this entrant this time out. NAPA VALLEY (BRZ) - Has been racing in the most competitive company of the group lately. He ought to be given a shot given the respectable speed numbers. ALL NATIONS - Sipp has this gelding racing well and is a quite good pick based on the decent speed figures posted in route races recently. Lagunes will most likely be able to get this gelding to break out sharply in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Will Rogers

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


Race 4 - Allowance - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $19000 Class Rating: 72

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 MAGGIES HALO 3/1


# 4 FLY ABOVE IT ALL 2/1


# 1 FRANCES IS SMOKIN 15/1


MAGGIES HALO looks like the wager in here. Could provide positive profits based on formidable recent speed figures with an average of 54. Must be considered - I like the figures from the last outing. Is a solid contender based on figs recorded lately under today's conditions. FLY ABOVE IT ALL - I like the jockey on this filly - respectable chance to win the contest. Will probably come out solid - I have liked the way this filly has moved quickly to the front end recently. FRANCES IS SMOKIN - Has been running strongly and has among the best speed in the race for today's distance. Has been racing well in races of this distance, going 1 for 3 under similar conditions.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #2 - Post: 1:12pm - Maiden Special - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $13,200 Class Rating: 53

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 JEFFERSONIAN (ML=8/1)
#2 ALOTLIKEKARIN (ML=6/1)


JEFFERSONIAN - I believe that today's shorter trip should help this colt. Aboard this thoroughbred on February 11th and Cecil is back again in the irons in today's contest. Speed is always important in horse racing, but the lone speed horse is always dangerous. The improved Equibase speed figures over the last three races is solid. Vernino drops him in this race in great shape. Dropped in class last time around the track, running against the same type today. The last fig of 55 is the highest last race speed rating in the field. ALOTLIKEKARIN - You'll be making money left and right by turning your cash onto this jock/trainer combination. This gelding is back in a race very quick. This is a great angle - Sprinters that come back in less than 10 days after a race. A good sign of a sharp and ready racehorse. This gelding is in fine form, having run a nice race on March 23rd, finishing third.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 GO BOB GO (ML=4/5), #5 SHERMAN VEE (ML=9/5),

GO BOB GO - This colt probably needs a more conducive pace scenario to make his furious rally. SHERMAN VEE - Just don't figure that he is worth it at the likely odds.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#6 JEFFERSONIAN to win at post-time odds of 7/5 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Parx Racing - Race #8 - Post: 4:04pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 60

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#4 I JUST WANNA WIN (ML=5/2)


I JUST WANNA WIN - She keeps getting closer at the finish with each and every start. Have to give this filly a chance. Ran a sharp race in the last race within the last month or so. This filly is clearly on the improve with speed figures of 50, 52, 55 last 3 out.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 ROCK HARD DOLL (ML=8/5), #1 REMEMBER THE PROM (ML=5/1), #7 JULIE'S INDY (ML=6/1),

ROCK HARD DOLL - Generally I need a sprinter to have some recent success in short distance contests in order to bet on her. REMEMBER THE PROM - Finished eighth last time out of the box. Would have to perk up to hit the board in today's event. JULIE'S INDY - This thoroughbred likes to be there at the wire, but doesn't usually get the job done. Keep out of the top spot.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - I JUST WANNA WIN - My stats say it usually takes a horse a few races after a layoff to get back into proper shape. That's just what we have here, so I expect a lot for this horse.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #4 I JUST WANNA WIN on the win end if we get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Skip

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 3/30 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY $1 PICK 4:

2,3,4/1/3,7,10/1,3,4 = $27

MEET STATS: 117 - 373 / $630.60 BEST BETS: 16 - 36 / $88.00

SPOT PLAYS: 6 - 35 / $59.20

Best Bet: D GS JUSTLIKETHAT (5th)

Spot Play: JOHNNY COME LATELY (7th)


Race 1

(7) BIG PACKAGE was more like a big dud first off the claim but drops back to a straight claimer vs. much easier. He can get back on track here. (4) O U SEXY guy raced Thursday night in a similar class and was an even 4th. He might do better coming back quickly if he goes. (1) BULLET refused to yield to pressure at the 1/2 last week then out-staggered the field home. Some of these are tougher and finish better.

Race 2

(1) DOCTOR TERROR was last seen winning a stake at Delaware on Jug day. She looks ready to roll and might be a better price than white-hot (7) MAPLELEA, who rolled through the HPI series but beat very little doing it. (3) ROSE PETAL raced well and finished fast in her first start at Woodbine, likely a prep for this Blossom series opener. She's dangerous.

Race 3

(2) ACCENTURE HANOVER drops back to a class he already won easily in when he debuted and he moves inside; top call. (7) HURRICANE HAZEL got too far back last out to make any impact late. The first time she is in contention turning home she will likely win. (10) AT THE DISCO goes out for expert trotting trainer Bax who may have figured some things out with him. He could close late to hit the bottom of the tri at a big price.

Race 4

(3) CASIMIR OPPEE left hard last time but backed up late. He's bred to win early and could wake up big-time soon; maybe tonight? (2) BELIEVEINYOURMACH made two moves in an improved performance and although he is win-shy he's a top contender in this weak group. (4) BADEND LARRY's 2015 debut was solid enough to suggest he's a player in here.

Race 5

(1) D GS JUSTLIKETHAT drops back into a class where he is top dog; top call and Best Bet. (4) IDEAL SHADOW has some sneaky good form and would be a dangerous rival if he could sit the pocket. (5) HOUSE OF TERROR has been in great form since arriving from Ottawa and should get a good share again.

Race 6

(3) MY MAN CHARLEY paced a qualifying mile good enough to suggest he might be able to take this weak group in his 2015 debut. (10) REAL ROCKER made a move to the front in the third 1/4 last week but came under immediate siege and just failed to last. That was a big effort and he could offer value from out there. (7) CARD SHOCK made a bold move to the front but was going too fast to last. That might act as a “speed tightener” and he could pop here at a price; beware.

Race 7

(4) JOHNNY COME LATELY drops out of a race where the pace was impossible and meets a group that could knock each other out setting the table for him late; top billing. (3) JUST PLAIN LUCK debuts for Moreau and also should benefit from the early pace scenario. (1) OK BOROMIR hasn't raced in 2 1/2 years but was wicked fast on his best day; one to keep an eye on.

Race 8

(3) NIPPY W HANOVER had a perfect tightener from the 10-hole last week off a 3-week break getting ready for this series; top call. (1) BEYONCES ROCKN destroyed her foes in her 2015 debut and is the one to deny here. (4) BETTOR OUT WEST has looked good winning all her starts at London but will obviously need to turn up her speed here to be a contender.

Race 9

(7) JAC SPADE drops to face a group that he may just be able to chase down late. (3) LOST IN PANSLATION jogged last week with claims in but faces many that he beat then; contender. (2) ROCKNROLL BAND closed late for a share but hasn't been as sharp as he was a few weeks back; minor slice only.

Race 10

(5) WIDSONG LEO was an ultra-impressive first-up winner in his Woodbine debut; call to repeat. (8) TEA WITH MS MCGILL was not asked for any pace until the lane at which point the gelding switched into a gear the others simply didn't have. He's the main foe. (3) WELL WRITTEN continues to race well and was 2nd behind a very good winner most recently. He's on the ticket. (7) TURBO MACH has faced better recently and is usually in striking position on cover; using. (6) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE moves back to the middle of the gate where he is more likely to grab a minor share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 3/30 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

MEET STATS: 40 - 250 / $322.10 BEST BETS: 3 - 21 / $14.10

Best Bet: PICTONIAN PRIDE (1st)

Spot Play: NATURAL LEDA (11th)


Race 1

(3) PICTONIAN PRIDE showed life last time out and has every right to move forward. (5) TIDEWATER TOMAHAWK just came up a little short in his recent trip. (2) REAL MARRIAGE put in a sharp effort in his latest.

Race 2

(5) DANISHDUJOUR is on a roll scoring his second straight victory and the gelding can keep on his winning ways against these. (1) BAZILLION leaves the 8-hole for the fence where he got the job done two starts ago. (2) NOBLES GRAND SLAM should be right in the mix from the two slot.

Race 3

(1) SEAFOOD MISSY Sophomore miss did not fire last time around but a new tactic might be in the works; threat at her best. (5) LADY SPARTACUS was caught at the wire by (4) NOT BEFORE EIGHT last time out. The latter made her pari-mutuel debut a winning one in her most recent try.

Race 4

(4) BUGGER BRUISER drops a notch in class and that might be what he needs to get back to the winner's circle. (6) K SLATER showed speed in his last one. (1) AMERICAN FLIGHT should do much better from the pole position.

Race 5

Will give (6) TRIP HANOVER a shot for the repeat. Gelding took the pocket route home for glory last time around. (5) TALKTOMECOURAGE N was nailed for win honors by the top pick last week. (2) FALL TOY moves back to the 2-hole where he was third best two trips ago.

Race 6

(6) HICKORY ICON is a very consistent pacer who has fine speed and with a relaxing trip, he can go back to his winning self. (4) PAPPYS PAL Gelding is knocking at the door based on his last four tries. (2) VILLAGE BEAT Qualifier at Philly was good enough to contend with these.

Race 7

(7) BABY REMIND ME he moves up in class but with a fine-timed drive from Sears, this pacing mare can take this at her best. (2) SAFE FROM TERROR Sharp sophomore miss just missed her fifth straight victory last week and will clearly be the one to beat. (1) CAROBBEAN PACETRY Two good efforts puts this gal in the hunt from the fence.

Race 8

Will go for the upset with (1) CHEYENNE ROBIN. She could not handle Witch Dali in her last two starts in the Petticoat series, but maybe this gal will turn the tables on that rival from the rail slot. (4) WITCH DALI did not do anything wrong in the series and for sure will be the one to deny. (2) HAY STACKED and (7) CURISINWITHMYBABY complete the trifecta and superfecta respectably.

Race 9

(5) ASTOR is moving up in class off a sharp victory last time out. Gelding is consistent enough to take another score. (3) TRACK MASTER D fits will in here and appears to be the main danger. (1) ROCKS N BONDS returns to the rail where he got the job done two trips back.

Race 10

(1) KEHMMYWOOD Upstate invader should be ready to fire his best against this group. (4) BLADE SEELSTER Maybe the 4-hole can help his cause and Brennan stays on board. (3) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY could have a say in the outcome.

Race 11

(6) NATURAL LEDA did not get involved last time around but he is very capable of getting back on the winning track with a return to his 3/13 trip. (5) JUSTIFIED was over his head facing better recently, but these might be to his liking. (3) HI HO STEVERINO is knocking at the door and can't be counted out.

Race 12

(4) BROOKSTONE Quite sharp in his last three starts, now he moves up the ladder; threat at his best. (2) SIR ZIGGYS Z TAM gets serious post relief and that might help his cause. (1) LIFE UP FRONT should get involved from the fence.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Mahoning Valley (3rd) Silken Bo, 4-1
(6th) Simple Man Skynyrd, 3-1


Mountaineer (2nd) Najaseehimnajadont, 8-1
(8th) Cup of Joy, 5-1


Parx Racing (2nd) Plymouth Square, 3-1
(5th) Lonely Whistle, 8-1


Sunland Park (6th) Ice Cold, 3-1
(8th) Dubya, 3-1


Turf Paradise (2nd) Kiptiddy Do Dah, 5-1
(6th) Guns and Religion, 5-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Grand Salami - March

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
3/1 6 32 41 OVER
3/2 3 15.5 16 OVER
3/3 10 54.5 55 OVER
3/4 4 21.5 16 UNDER
3/5 8 44 46 OVER
3/6 6 31 31 PUSH
3/7 10 53 51 UNDER
3/8 6 30.5 41 OVER
3/9 5 27.5 23 UNDER
3/10 8 43.5 42 UNDER
3/11 3 16.5 20 OVER
3/12 11 59.5 53 UNDER
3/13 5 27.5 30 OVER
3/14 12 63 54 UNDER
3/15 7 37.5 28 UNDER
3/16 4 21 19 UNDER
3/17 9 47.5 39 UNDER
3/18 3 15.5 13 UNDER
3/19 10 53.5 54 OVER
3/20 3 16 13 UNDER
3/21 13 67.5 63 UNDER
3/22 4 20.5 24 OVER
3/23 7 37 33 UNDER
3/24 8 42.5 50 OVER
3/25 3 16.5 19 OVER
3/26 11 58.5 67 OVER
3/27 3 16 17 OVER
3/28 13 68.5 74 OVER
3/29 8 42 47 OVER
3/30 6 - - -
3/31 7 - - -

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Preview: Flames (41-28) at Stars (37-29)

Date: March 30, 2015 8:30 PM EDT

The Calgary Flames are entering the final two weeks of the regular season with the slimmest of leads over the defending Stanley Cup champions for what could be the Pacific Division's last playoff spot, but their immediate concern is with an even more desperate club.

A chance to pad that advantage comes Monday night in Dallas against a Stars team that might not be able afford any kind of slip-up during a daunting stretch to conclude the season.

Calgary (41-28-7) won 5-2 in Nashville on Sunday to move a point ahead of Los Angeles, but the Kings have a game in hand. The Flames are making a third stop on a five-game road trip and are now in position to win consecutive games for the first time since March 11-13, going 3-3-2 since.

Lance Bouma scored twice against the Predators, and Jiri Hudler's goal and assist gives the forward nine points in six games.

"Tonight, I really believed that we played what I would say is our most complete game in a long time," coach Bob Hartley said. "Not that the others were not good, but tonight I am so proud of our four lines, our six Ds, and Jonas Hiller came up with some big saves at the right times. It's a big team win. It feels great."

The Flames have had no such success against Dallas (37-29-10). The Stars are enjoying a 5-0-1 run in the series, including a pair of wins this season. The most recent was a 4-3 shootout victory in Calgary on Wednesday behind Ales Hemsky's two goals. Tyler Seguin added two assists and has nine points on a four-game point streak against the Flames.

The Stars are 10-3-0 since a six-game skid threw a major kink into their postseason aspirations, and with 84 points they're chasing Winnipeg's 90 for the final Western Conference wild-card spot.

"(The hope) is still there," captain Jamie Benn told the team's official website. "A lot of people are saying this, but you just take it a game at a time. We are going to need some help, and we just need to keep winning these games and we'll see what happens."

If the Stars are going to make an improbable playoff push, they're really going to have to earn it. Saturday's 4-3 overtime win in Vancouver started a season-closing stretch of seven games with six likely playoff teams on the list. It followed a potentially haunting 4-0 loss in Edmonton on Friday.

"Yesterday, we were pretty good offensively but we did some big mistakes with the puck," John Klingberg said after scoring the winner. "We had a pretty good run before that. It's good we got the win here today. We need every win. It's good for us."

In goal, Kari Lehtonen figures to go for a career-best 35th win. The Dallas starter is 9-2-0 with a 2.30 goals-against average in 12 games this month. With the Stars, he's 4-0-2 with a 1.94 GAA in home games against Calgary.

If the Flames stick with Hiller, he brings a 3-1-1 record and 2.13 GAA in his last six games. Against Dallas, he's just 1-10-0 with a 3.01 GAA in his last 12.

Karri Ramo suffered the shootout loss to the Stars last week and is 0-1-1 with a 4.25 GAA in three career games in the series.

Calgary is uncertain of whether it'll have Paul Byron back after he sat against the Predators because of a lower-body injury. Byron played in Friday's 4-2 loss in Minnesota but missed the previous 17 games with an undisclosed ailment.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Game of the Day: Canadiens at Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning at Montreal Canadiens (-135, 5)

The Montreal Canadiens look to avoid a season-series sweep Monday and hand the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning their first three-game losing streak of the campaign. The Canadiens have been outscored 16-5 in four losses against the Lightning, including a 1-0 overtime defeat in the last meeting at Montreal on March 10. Tampa Bay, trailing the first-place Canadiens by three points in the Atlantic Division, comes in off Saturday’s 4-0 loss at Detroit when it lost two key performers to injuries.

Top-four defenseman Jason Garrison was sent back home to be evaluated after suffering an upper-body injury and physical forward Cedric Paquette sustained a lower-body injury Saturday. The Lightning’s magic number is two points to clinch a playoff spot and they need one victory to set a single-season franchise record. The game matches the league’s top scoring team (Tampa Bay) against the NHL’s top defensive team (Montreal) -- led by Hart and Vezina Trophy candidate goalie Carey Price.

LINE HISTORY: Most shops opened the Habs around -127, but it was sitting at -135 at the time of writing.

INJURY REPORT: TB - Paquette (Ques), Garrison (Out), Coburn (Early April), Ohlund (IR). MON - Gilbert (Ques)

ABOUT THE LIGHTNING (46-23-7): Tampa Bay was shut out for the first time since December of 2013 on Saturday and has been blanked on 11 power-play attempts over the last two contests. Captain Steven Stamkos has 40 goals – tied for second in the league with Rick Nash of the New York Rangers – has not scored in four games, but boasts five against the Canadiens this season. With veterans Garrison and Braydon Coburn (lower body) out, the Lightning must go with three defensemen with less than 120 NHL games of experience.

ABOUT THE CANADIENS (47-21-8): Max Pacioretty has posted five points in the last five games to match his career high (65) and his team-leading 36th goal beat Florida 3-2 in overtime Saturday, leaving him three from tying his all-time best. Tomas Plekanec has recorded eight points in eight contests to equal defenseman P.K. Subban for second in the team with 53 and is two shy of 200 career goals. Blue liner Tom Gilbert (jaw) is expected to miss his fourth straight game Monday, but could return next week.

TRENDS:

*Lightning are 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
*Over is 5-1-2 in the last 8 meetings.
*Lightning are 1-4 in their last 5 road games.
*Under is 6-1-2 in Canadiens last 9 home games.

CONSENSUS: N/A

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Win Total Update - April

Even though the NBA has plenty of meaningless games in the final month of the season, some of those contests are very important for “Win Total” bettors. Before the marathon of the 82-game regular season began, the LVH SuperBook at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort released NBA Win Totals for all 30 teams.

Every team only has 10 or less games remaining on their schedule and we’ve highlighted all of the current results in the below table that have already cashed plus we show the pending wagers.

As of Sunday Mar. 29, based on opening numbers from the LVH, there are 18 finalized results and 12 pending outcomes.

Dallas – 49.5
This one should be tight as the Mavericks (45-28) need five wins and the schedule has them finishing with five of their last nine on the road.

Detroit – 36.5
The Pistons need to finish the season by winning at least nine of their last 10 to go ‘over’ their number. It’s pretty amazing they still have a shot consid ering they’ve had losing streaks of 13 and 10 games this season.

Houston – 49.5
The Rockets need one win in their final 10 to go ‘over’

Indiana – 32.5
The Pacers (31-41) need to win two of their final 10 to go ‘over’

L.A. Clippers – 55.5
The Clippers (48-25) need to go 8-1 to go ‘over’

New Orleans – 41.5
Another tough one to gauge, with the Pelicans (38-34) playing six of their final 10 on the road. New Orleans needs four wins to go ‘over’ its number.

Orlando – 28.5
Hard to imagine the Magic (22-52) winning six of their final eight games but you never know.

Phoenix – 42.5
The Suns (38-35) are still in the playoff hunt and need to go 5-4 down the stretch to cash ‘over’ tickets

Portland – 48.5
The Trail Blazers (47-25) need two wins to cash ‘over’ wagers

Sacramento – 30.5
The Kings (26-46) need to play .500 (5-5) basketball in the last few weeks to go ‘over’ their number.

Toronto – 49.5
The Raptors (43-30) looked like a solid ‘over’ bet in November and December but injuries set this team back in 2015. Toronto needs to go 7-2 or better to cash the ‘over’

Washington – 49.5
Unless the Wizards (41-32) win out, the ‘under’ is a winner here.


2014-15 NBA Win Totals

Team Win Total Record (As of 3/29/15) Result

Atlanta Hawks 40.5 55-18
Boston Celtics 26.5 32-40
Brooklyn Nets 41.5 31-40
Charlotte Hornets 45.5 31-41
Chicago Bulls 55.5 45-29
Cleveland Cavaliers 58.5 47-27
Dallas Mavericks 49.5 45-28
Denver Nuggets 40.5 28-46
Detroit Pistons 36.5 28-44
Golden State Warriors 50.5 60-13
Houston Rockets 49.5 49-23
Indiana Pacers 32.5 31-41
Los Angeles Clippers 55.5 48-25
Los Angeles Lakers 31.5 19-52
Memphis Grizzlies 48.5 50-23
Miami Heat 43.5 33-39
Milwaukee Bucks 24.5 36-37
Minnesota Timberwolves 25.5 16-56
New Orleans Pelicans 41.5 38-34
New York Knicks 40.5 14-60
Oklahoma City Thunder 57.5 41-32
Orlando Magic 28.5 22-52
Philadelphia 76ers 15.5 18-55
Phoenix Suns 42.5 38-35
Portland Trail Blazers 48.5 47-25
Sacramento Kings 30.5 26-46
San Antonio Spurs 56.5 46-26
Toronto Raptors 49.5 43-30
Utah Jazz 25.5 32-41
Washington Wizards 49.5 41-32

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Raptors' PG Kyle Lowry, doubtful Monday

Lowry is dealing with back spasms and has missed the last two games. He is unlikely to return Monday against the Rockets.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Hawks' PG Jeff Teague, doubtful Monday

Teague has missed the last two games with an ankle injury and is unlikely to return Monday against the Bucks.



T-Wolves' PG Ricky Rubio, questionable Monday

Rubio has missed the last six contests with a sore right ankle and but could return Monday against the Jazz.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA roundup: Cavs slip past Sixers
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

CLEVELAND -- LeBron James scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, and the Cavaliers survived a scare from the Philadelphia 76ers for an 87-86 victory Sunday, although Cleveland lost two key players to injury.

Cleveland forward Kevin Love, who has battled back problems throughout the season, took an elbow to his lower back in the fourth quarter and had to leave the game soon after. Cavs guard Iman Shumpert jammed his ankle going up for a dunk in the second quarter and left the game immediately. Neither player returned, but neither injury is considered serious.

The Cavs began the day with everyone available, yet they only survived when Philadelphia's Nerlens Noel missed a contested shot in the lane in the game's final seconds.

Neither team scored a basket for the final 3:57. The Sixers missed their final five shots and their last four free throws, while the Cavs missed their last six shots. Philadelphia guard Ish Smith missed a pair of open 3-pointers, and forward Robert Covington (team-high 19 points) missed two free throws, all in the final 90 seconds,


Rockets 99, Wizards 91

WASHINGTON -- Guard James Harden scored 24 points, and Houston fended off a second-half rally for a win over Washington.

Forward Corey Brewer scored 15 points and forward Josh Smith had 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Rockets, who won their fourth straight. Center Dwight Howard had 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Guard John Wall finished with 25 points for the Wizards, coming up short of his third straight game with 30 or more points. The All-Star also had 12 assists and made 11 of 12 free throws. Washington lost for the fifth time in six games.


Pelicans 110, Timberwolves 88

NEW ORLEANS -- Forward Anthony Davis scored 28 points and grabbed nine rebounds, and center Omer Asik added 15 points to lead New Orleans past injury-riddled Minnesota.

Davis struggled with his outside shot, going 10-for-21 from the floor, but he made eight of 10 free throws. Guard Eric Gordon added 12 points, and forward Quincy Pondexter, guard Norris Cole and center Alexis Ajinca had 10 each for New Orleans.

Minnesota got a team-high 20 points from forward Andrew Wiggins, but the Timberwolves killed their chances with 21 turnovers.


Nets 107, Lakers 99

NEW YORK -- Center Brook Lopez collected 30 points and 11 rebounds, and Brooklyn held on for a victory over Los Angeles.

Forward Joe Johnson added 18 points and rookie guard Markel Brown contributed a career-high 17 points for Brooklyn, which equaled a season high with three consecutive wins. Lopez posted his sixth straight game with at least 20 points and reached 30 points for the fourth time in six games, helping Brooklyn win for the seventh time in nine games.

Center Jordan Hill returned to the Los Angeles lineup after sitting out three games and collected 22 points and 16 rebounds. The Lakers lost for the 12th time in 15 games.


Pacers 104, Mavericks 99

INDIANAPOLIS -- C.J. Miles scored 28 points, including a clutch 3-pointer with one minute remaining and two free throws with 1.7 seconds to go, leading Indiana past Dallas. It was the first time in 34 games this season that the Mavericks lost when leading after three quarters. Indiana snapped a four-game home losing streak.

Two free throws from center Roy Hibbert broke a tie and gave the Pacers a 99-97 lead with 1:30 remaining. Miles followed with the 3-pointer 30 seconds later for a 102-97 lead. Dallas forward Chandler Parson made a layup with 55 second to go to slice the deficit to 102-99, but the Mavericks, who managed only 38 second-half points, did not score again.

Hibbert and guard George Hill each added 14 for Indiana. Parsons led Dallas with 27 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Dirk Nowitzki had 19 points and five rebounds, and guard Rajon Rondo added 17 points and 10 assists.


Spurs 103, Grizzlies 89

SAN ANTONIO -- Kawhi Leonard scored 25 points as San Antonio defeated Memphis. The Spurs forward scored the team's first 15 points of the fourth quarter and helped doom the Grizzlies to their third consecutive loss, matching their longest slump of the season.

Leonard shot 11-for-17 from the field and finished one point shy of tying his career high.

San Antonio forward Tiago Splitter added 15 points and guard Tony Parker scored 17. Forward Zach Randolph led the Grizzlies with 20 points on 9-of-16 shooting while forward Jeff Green chipped in with 19.


Thunder 109, Suns 97

PHOENIX -- Kyle Singler, D.J. Augustin and Anthony Morrow all hit 3-pointers during a 13-0 Oklahoma City run early the fourth quarter, and the Thunder rallied from a 20-point, first-half deficit to beat Phoenix.

Guard Russell Westbrook led the Thunder with 33 points, but he scored just four in the fourth quarter and was on the bench resting when his teammates took control of the game. He made only 10 of 29 shots from the floor.

Augustin finished with 19 points, and guard Dion Waiters scored nine of his 18 in the third quarter. Thunder center Steven Adams added 13 points and 16 rebounds. Forward Markieff Morris had 24 points to lead the Suns, but he scored only four in the second half.


Heat 109, Pistons 102

MIAMI -- Undersized and undermanned Miami stretched its home winning streak to a season-best five. Shooting guard Dwyane Wade scored a game-high 40 points to lead the Heat, who had just nine healthy players available in the second half.

Wade scored 19 of his points in the fourth quarter. Miami's Udonis Haslem, playing center, had a season-high 18 points to go with a season-high 13 rebounds, and rookie forward James Ennis came off the bench to score a career-high 16 points. Center Drummond led Detroit with 32 points and 14 rebounds, and guard Reggie Jackson added 31 points.

Miami, playing without four injured 6-foot-10 or taller big men, Chris Bosh, Josh McRoberts, Hassan Whiteside and Chris Andersen, lost forwards Luol Deng (knee) and Michael Beasley (elbow) to injuries.


Clippers 119, Celtics 106

BOSTON -- Los Angeles saw its 35-point lead slip to 14 in the fourth quarter Sunday, but the Clippers held on to beat Boston.

Clippers center DeAndre Jordan, who finished with 15 points and 14 rebounds, missed 12 of 15 free throws. Los Angeles guard J.J. Redick hit five of six attempts from behind the 3-point arc and scored 24 of his 27 points in the first three quarters. Guard Chris Paul had 21 points and 10 assists, and forward Blake Griffin added 21 points and nine rebounds.

Guard Isaiah Thomas came off the bench to lead six Celtics (four of them reserves) in double figures with 19 points. Thomas added seven assists. Boston center Tyler Zeller delivered 16 points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Home Cookin' Not Always Good'

Two teams capable of an explosive offense clash in a non-conference tilt at the Air Canada Center Monday when Raptors (104.2) host Rockets (103.4). The home team considered to have an advantage over the visitors a result of playing in familiar facilities and in front of supportive fans the betting market has pegged Raptors -2.5 point chalk. However, the view from here is that Raptors can't be trusted with its defensive woes allowing the competition 106.6 points per 100 possessions since the break posting a 7-13 SU/ATS record. Not only are Raptors 7-16 ATS facing a team with a winning record of .600 or higher, the Purple Dino's have faltered against the betting line running the hardwood against teams averaging 102 or more points/game (9-17 ATS). Finally, -3.5 or less home chalk has not worked well for Raptors, they're 3-8 ATS last eleven situations including 0-3 ATS this season. Factor all that data together and the arrow is clearly pointing toward taking red hot Rockets on a 7-1 (6-2 ATS) tear dropping 106.5 per game through the iron.