Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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10-28-19 | Bulls v. Knicks OVER 223 | Top | 98-105 | Loss | -101 | 10 h 48 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #513 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Chicago Bulls @ 7:05 ET - Both these teams are off embarrassing low-scoring performances in their home openers. Each team faced a tough foe though and now, after that ugliness, each team is ready for a breakout game offensively and will take advantage of facing a weak foe that struggles on the defensive end. That is going to lead to an absolutely shootout here in New York in my opinion. Keep in mind, the Bulls are 18-7 to the over when off a game in which they scored 90 or less points. The Knicks are off back to back losses to divisional foes and I look for the over to improve to 3-0 when in this situation (off B2B losses to Atlantic teams). Note that New York's only game against a non-divisional foe this season totaled 231 points and flew over the total. The Knicks are allowing an average of 117 points per game this season. As for Chicago, they are allowing an average of 112 points per game this season. Prior to getting stifled by Toronto, the Bulls did average 117.5 points per game in their first two games. The Chicago offensive production bounces right back here but the Knicks answer them bucket for bucket in a game that goes down to the wire as both teams respond well after each having had a very poor shooting performance in their prior game. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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10-26-19 | Celtics v. Knicks OVER 213 | Top | 118-95 | Push | 0 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #555 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics @ 7:35 ET - Both teams are already playing their 3rd game of the young season and it is a back to back for both clubs as each was in action last night. That said, I don't expect much defensive intensity for either team here as the Celtics are off huge divisional match-ups with the 76ers and Raptors. As for the Knicks, they failed to score in the final 3:41 of their loss to Brooklyn last night. With that type of late game failure on the offensive end, you know where New York's focus is heading into this game. Also, both teams have injuries to big men. This means each team is lacking some interior defense and, as a result, there will be more scoring opportunities in the paint that what you would typically see. With this total also dropping from as high as a 215.5 to a 212, the value is clearly with the over in this one. The over is 11-6 when Boston is off a home win against a divisional rival. The most recent game between these teams stayed under the total but, prior to that, Knicks games against Celtics were on a 3-1 run to the over. That type of trending resumes here. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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06-13-19 | Raptors v. Warriors OVER 210.5 | Top | 114-110 | Win | 100 | 15 h 8 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #531 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Toronto Raptors @ 9:05 ET - Monday's game died in the 4th quarter in terms of the scoring. I don't expect a repeat of that here. It is yet another elimination game for the Warriors but this time they are at home. Golden State will be ready to make up for the Game 4 debacle on their home floor when they scored just 92 points! Prior to that game the Warriors had scored an average of 118.6 points per game in their 14 home games since the last time they were held under 100 points on their home floor. In other words, the Game 4 result was highly unusual and I am expecting a break out game from Golden State on the offensive end in this one. However, the Raptors have plenty of confidence too. Despite the Game 5 loss, Toronto still has the Warriors on the ropes here and the Raptors have averaged 112.8 points per game in their last 5 games at Golden State. Don't be surprised if this one turns into a see-saw battle with plenty of points! The over is 10-4-1 when Toronto is playing with home loss revenge this season. There have been back to back unders in this series but lets not forget that, prior to those two games, the over was 8-3-1 in the Warriors last 12 NBA Finals games. Look for that high-scoring long-term trend to resume Thursday as the Warriors get their outside shooting going in a big way on their home floor in this crucial Game 6 match-up. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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06-05-19 | Raptors v. Warriors OVER 212.5 | Top | 123-109 | Win | 100 | 16 h 16 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #525 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Toronto Raptors @ 9:05 ET - The Raptors are looking to bounce back after taking a dozen more shots from the field than the Warriors took and yet still losing Game 2 in Toronto. Note that the over is 24-13 (including 9-4 this season) when the Raptors are playing with home loss revenge. Golden State's Klay Thompson played solid defense in Game 2 and that was considered a key catalyst in the win. It is likely he will play in Game 3 even though he is dealing with a hamstring issue but don't be surprised if that injury makes Thompson a little less effective on the defensive end. Speaking of holes defensively, the Warriors continue to be without Kevin Durant and he has already been announced as out for this game. So I am expecting a much better shooting performance from the Raptors in this one and, at the same time, I expect Steph Curry and company to have a huge shooting night on their home floor. Golden State will rally around the fact that this is their first home game since mid-May! In this post-season Warriors games are 11-6-1 to the over. In NBA Finals games Golden State is on a 7-3-1 run to the over. The Warriors have scored 109 points or more in 7 straight games. The Raptors had averaged 112 points per game in their 5-game winning streak that preceded the tough loss on Sunday. Look for this one to get into the 220 to 225 range. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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05-30-19 | Warriors v. Raptors OVER 213 | Top | 109-118 | Win | 100 | 15 h 42 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #521 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Golden State Warriors @ 9:05 ET - This total opened up at a 215.5 and has dropped to as low as a 213 as of early game day morning. Certainly line value is on our side here. The Warriors are 5-1 to the over in their last 6 road games. When playing with 3 or more days of rest this season Golden State is 3-1 to the over. The over is 6-3 in the Warriors NBA Finals games the past two seasons. When on a winning streak of 3 or more consecutive SU wins, Golden State is 18-11 to the over this season. Toronto is 19-11 to the over this season when on a winning streak of 3 or more consecutive SU wins. The Raptors, when hosting the Warriors, are a perfect 4-0 to the over in their last 4 meetings. The Warriors have allowed 110 points or more in 5 of their last 6 road games. The Raptors, before being held to 100 points in their series-clinching Game 6 win versus Milwaukee last week, had averaged 114 points per game in their 4 prior home games. Yes there was some OT impact in those numbers but you can see from the type of numbers I am giving you here we certainly have some "wiggle room" with this low total. Keep in mind that a total as low as 213 means we just need to get each team to 106 points and we can't lose our play. With fresh legs for both teams and the Raptors playing fast in front of an electric home crowd and looking to take advantage of a Warriors team still without Kevin Durant, I look for plenty of points in this one as you know Golden State is going to "get theirs" too in this one! 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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05-21-19 | Bucks v. Raptors OVER 216 | Top | 102-120 | Win | 100 | 12 h 27 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #503 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 8:35 ET - The markets often believe there is a certain magic to the numbers that, in reality, just isn't really there. After those holding under tickets in Game 3 absolutely did suffer a very bad beat because the game went to double OT that does not automatically mean that now the under comes in with this Game 4 match-up. That said, I am happy to grab the extra value being offered here. The books tried to hang a 220 on this game (and they were smart and logical in doing so) but the markets quickly bet it down. Now, as of early game day morning, the total is all the way down to a 216. Keep in mind, as ugly as the Sunday game was in the 2nd half and in the overtime periods, the game was on pace to go over as of halftime. What happened was unreal horrific shooting performances from a number of players and that led to ridiculously low-scoring in the 2nd half of Game 3. Do you really think those numbers are going to be repeated? There is no basis for that. Check these out: Bucks STARTERS Mirotic, Middleton, Bledsoe and Antetokounmpo combined for 14 of 59 - that is 23.7% shooting from the field! How about some Raptors numbers? Toronto's Green, Ibaka and VanVleet combined for 4 for 29 - that is 13.8% shooting from the field! Keep in mind, in the case of the Raptors, that is on their home floor no less! I expect some much better shooting performances in Game 4 and I expect that this game is going to have a much different flow than many are anticipating. The over is 7-1 in Milwaukee's last 8 road games. The over is 6-2 in the Raptors last 8 games against a Central Division opponent and the over is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings between these teams. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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05-19-19 | Bucks v. Raptors OVER 219.5 | Top | 112-118 | Win | 100 | 13 h 31 m | Show |
Playoff Total of the Year - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #549 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 7:05 ET - The Bucks most recent road game stayed under the total but that ended a perfect 6-0 streak of overs in Milwaukee road games. The fact is that the Bucks are truly proving very difficult to stop as they have scored 28 points or more in 6 of the last 7 quarters in this series. In addition to Milwaukee piling up the points, I also like the fact that the Raptors are now back home and they did score 64 points in the 2nd half of Game 2 which gives them some momentum and confidence on the offensive end despite being in an 0-2 hole in the series. Also, Toronto jumped on the Bucks in Game 1 of this series with a 59 point first half. They just couldn't sustain it. But, at home, the Raptors are likely to sustain a strong performance on offense and, at the same time, I just don't see them stopping Milwaukee considering how potent their production on offense has been. The Bucks are not only 6-1 to the over in their last 7 games away from home, they are also 8-4 to the over this season in games in which they are an underdog. Toronto is 19-11 to the over when playing with revenge this season. The Raptors are averaging 114 points in home games this season while Milwaukee averages 117 points per game in road games this season. Yes this is playoff basketball but we've seen huge scoring stretches from both teams already in this series and I like the fact the Raptors are on their home floor and need to respond with a huge performance on the offensive end but also won't be able to stop the Bucks. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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05-17-19 | Raptors v. Bucks OVER 216 | Top | 103-125 | Win | 100 | 12 h 2 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #545 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Toronto Raptors @ 8:35 ET - Inexplicably, the Raptors fell apart in the 4th quarter Wednesday. Inexplicably, Toronto has shot 38.2% or less from the field in back to back games. Of course the result has been back to back unders but Game 1 of this series totaled 208 points even though neither team shot above 39.8% from the field and that tells you quite a lot! The fact is that with even just a slight uptick in shooting percentages (and certainly an improvement is likely given the long-term history of these teams) we should easily get past this total. The Game 2 total is now lower than the Game 1 total even though one could easily argue that it should be higher given how bad the shooting was Wednesday and yet the game still totaled 208. I see this one flying over the total. The Bucks will be going for the kill as they can sense blood in the water and a chance to go up 2-0. The Raptors hungry to atone for their horrific 4th quarter in Game 1 and Toronto will be very aggressive in transition and in the offensive end as they bounce back from B2B poor efforts offensively. There have only been 4 other times this season that the Raptors have been held to 41.6% or less from the field in back to back games. ALL FOUR times their next game has gone OVER the total. Also, Toronto is 11-4 to the over in Friday games this season. Milwaukee has now recorded 3 straight unders. Dating all the way back the Christmas, when the Bucks enter a game off 3 or more consecutive unders, the over has gone 5-1 and I expect these situational trends to continue to be spot on! 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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05-15-19 | Raptors v. Bucks OVER 216.5 | Top | 100-108 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 28 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Rotation #531 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Toronto Raptors @ 8:30 ET - The Raptors Game 7 against the 76ers was a very ugly game as it seemed all the Toronto players (other than Kawhi Leonard) were tentative as they avoided being aggressive in terms of shooting the ball or driving to the hoop. Everyone just looked to get the ball to Leonard. The strategy eventually paid off (barely) and the Raptors won the game on the already infamous last season quadruple bounce shot from Kawhi. The fact is that ugly result is helping lead to some line value here as this total has dropped to as low as a 216.5 early this morning. This one is likely to play out much differently as the Raptors will be more aggressive all over the floor on offense but I don't foresee them stopping these Bucks either. Milwaukee, of course, is entering this game with plenty of rest and their fresh legs will be happy to push the pace as they look to run Toronto up and down the court all night long. The Bucks know the rest factor is strongly in their advantage. Milwaukee had that one ugly game against Boston in Game 1 but that is the only time in their last 16 games that the Bucks have been held to less than 113 points! Talk about consistency on offense! Milwaukee has averaged 123 points per game in those 15 games! So if they were to hit their normal average over the past 7 weeks and the odds makers are right about the line on the side here, this final scored would be 123 to 117 and total 240 points. Now I am not saying it will hit that high but I am saying that based on the way the Bucks have been playing and the likely style they will play tonight, we have a lot of value with the rather low total posted on this game! Milwaukee's final two games with the Celtics in the second round stayed under the total but truly Boston was horrific on offense. Note that, prior to that, the over was 11-3 in the Bucks last 14 games. The Raptors are playing this game with home loss revenge and that is a situation that has seen them go 26-12 to the over including 10-3 to the over this season! 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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04-23-19 | Nets v. 76ers OVER 229.5 | Top | 100-122 | Loss | -103 | 16 h 57 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets @ 8:05 ET - The first game in this series stayed under the total because the Sixers shot an unreal 3 of 25 from three point land on their home floor! The next two games went over the total and then Game 4 stayed under the total as both teams shot less than 32% from beyond the arc. In other words, that was a statistical anomaly and a repeat of that is unlikely. In fact, I like that fact the Nets averaged 117 points per game in the two games played here in Philly while the 76ers have responded very well since the Game 1 loss. Not only has Philly won 3 straight games, they've averaged 129 points per game in the last 3 games. The Sixers are hungry to close this out but also feeling a lot less pressure since they were able to eke out a tight win at Brooklyn in Game 4. The point is that I look for a very loose Philadelphia team (no pressure) to be shooting the ball very tonight in Game 5 but I also would not be surprised to see them also playing loose on defense. After all, defense is certainly not the strength of the Sixers. Couple that with the fact that these teams are both comfortable playing at a fast pace and that both teams shot less than their typical 3-point shooting percentage in Game 4, and you have the perfect recipe for an over here. The over is 8-3 this season when the 76ers enter a game on a winning streak of 3 or more games. The over is a long-term 13-5 in Sixers games since mid-March. Also, the total on this one has dropped from 231 to 229.5 and that adds some value as well. 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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04-22-19 | Bucks v. Pistons OVER 217.5 | Top | 127-104 | Win | 100 | 15 h 44 m | Show |
TNT Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #573 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Detroit Pistons vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 8:05 ET - Even though the Pistons have been held to 38.5% or less from the field in all 3 games of this series, 2 of the 3 have gone over the total. Of course part of the reason for that is the fact Detroit has been struggling to stop the Bucks but the other reason is that the pace has certainly been there for an over as well. The Pistons have averaged 96 field goal attempts per game so far in this series. With tonight being "now or never" for Detroit, I look for another game to again feature a good pace for an over. The Pistons will go "all out" here at home and note that the over is 8-2 in the last 10 games for Milwaukee and also 3-1 when the Bucks are leading in a playoff series. The fact is Detroit can't stop the Bucks but I also don't expect the Pistons to go away without a fight tonight as they look to avoid suffering a sweep and having it occur on their home floor. The over is a perfect 4-0 in Milwaukee's last 4 road games. The Bucks have averaged 124.1 points per game in their last 10 games. If Milwaukee hits their average here and the odds makers are correct about the line (Bucks by a dozen) you have a 124-112 type game and that has this one ending well above the current total of 217.5 as of early game day morning. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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04-20-19 | Nuggets v. Spurs OVER 207.5 | Top | 117-103 | Win | 100 | 10 h 8 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #559 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets @ 5:35 ET - The Nuggets Murray, Barton, and Harris combined to make just 8 of 25 from the field and only 2 of 6 from the free throw line in Thursday's loss. Even with those horrible numbers Denver still scored 108 points and the game easily went over the total. Now we're seeing Saturday's total having dropped from an opener of 211 all the way down to a 207.5 and the value is with the over here. The Spurs have been getting strong guard play and the Nuggets had strong guard play in Game 2 before faltering in San Antonio in Game 3. Both those games went over the total and I expect that trend to continue here as Denver's backcourt responds after a poor game Thursday but they continue to struggle to stop White and DeRozan for the Spurs. The Nuggets don't want to get into a half-court game here with the Spurs as that plays right into the strength of San Antonio. Denver, facing a nearly insurmountable 3-1 hole with a loss here are going to try and play this game at their tempo and "force the issue" with quick buckets in transition and not allowing the Spurs defense to get fully set. Denver has scored 108 points or more in 6 of its last 8 games. SA has scored an average of 113.5 points per game in their last 17 home games. Take advantage of the line move here and expect another very entertaining battle with big scoring runs from each team at points throughout this game just like we've seen in the last two between these foes. 10* OVER the total in San Antonio |
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04-14-19 | Thunder v. Blazers OVER 225 | Top | 99-104 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 46 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #513 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Portland Trail Blazers vs Oklahoma City Thunder @ 3:30 ET - Of course it is well known that the Blazers are without Jusuf Nurkic but the good news is that they have got CJ McCollum back. The key about Nurkic is that he had 6 blocks and 7 steals in the 4 games against the Thunder this season. His replacement is Enes Kanter who can match Nurkic's scoring but not his defense. An example of that is that Kanter has had 0 blocks in 12 of his last 14 games. The point is that the situation for Portland with their big men is a help to the over here. The 4 games between these teams this season averaged 228 points in regulation (took the OT period out of the equation). That means it seems like we may not have that much value with this total at 225. However, keep in mind Nurkic played all 4 of those games. It will be a little different for the Trail Blazers without him. Also Paul George has had huge success against Portland this season as has Russell Westbrook. On the flip side Damon Lillard has been huge against the Thunder this season. There is a great pace to match-ups between these teams and I expect a tight ball-game but one that is played fast and with plenty of scoring and transition points. All 4 games Saturday stayed under the total but you know that is not going to be a trend that lasts and the odds makers have this as the biggest total on the board Sunday with good reason. Additionally, both teams wrapped up the season going 8-4 to the over their last 12 games. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Portland |
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04-13-19 | Magic v. Raptors OVER 212.5 | Top | 104-101 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 8 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Orlando Magic @ 5:05 ET - This total opened up at a 216 but has dropped to as low as a 212.5 as of early game day morning. I love the value with the over here. The Magic are a very confident underdog here and I expect that to lead to plenty of points as they hang around in this game. Keep in mind, Orlando wrapped up the season winning 11 of their last 13 games. The Magic have scored an average of 116.5 points per game in their last 13 games! The over is 7-0 in Orlando's last 7 games. The Raptors final game of the regular season totaled 220 points which resulted in an under but would be an over given today's line. Either way, prior to that game, Toronto had only 4 unders in their 16 prior games! The Raptors have averaged 116.6 points per game their last 17 games. I know this is playoff basketball but I still the odds makers had it right and if any movement at all occurred with this total it should have been the other direction. A similar move in the other direction would have had it up near 220 and based on the way these two teams have been shooting and scoring as well of the pace of their games, I do expect at least 220 here. In other words, we've got very strong line value in this one. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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04-09-19 | Knicks v. Bulls OVER 216.5 | Top | 96-86 | Loss | -106 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
The Total of the Year - Rickenbach NBA Game #509 Tuesday NBA 10* Top Play OVER the total in Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks @ 8:05 ET - Who is going to play defense here? The Bulls just faced a Sixers team that was very hungry for a win to lock in playoff seeding and to end a season-long losing streak. As a result, the Bulls scored just 96 points in that game. But that was the first under that Chicago has had in their last 4 games. As for the Knicks, they are coming off their first under in their last 5 games. However, that game totaled 223 points and would get us a win based on today's total. With regards to today's total note that the very first number that popped up off shore on this one was 219 but then it immediately dropped to 215. As of early game day morning, it has settled in around the 216.5 mark. I understand the drop on the total as neither one of these lineups renders any excitement in terms of star power but lets talk facts here! This is a meaningless late season game between two non-playoff teams where the level of defensive intensity is going to vary somewhere between minimal and non-existent! Chicago has allowed an average of 118.7 points per game their last 13 games. New York has allowed an average of 117.2 points per game their last 11 games. Each of the first two meetings this season went over the total and all signs point to another one here. Keep in mind if each team allows 108 points or more we can't lose this play (based on current number of 216.5). The Knicks have allowed 109 points or more in 10 of their last 12 games. The Bulls have allowed 112 points or more in 13 of their last 14 games. I know the lineups lack star power but these guys are hungry and looking to pad stats in a game where the winner does not matter. I see good pace here in this game as well as continue lack of defense and we should see this game get well into the 220s. 10* OVER the total in Chicago |
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03-31-19 | Mavs v. Thunder OVER 221.5 | Top | 106-103 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 55 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #549 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oklahoma City Thunder vs Dallas Mavericks @ 3:35 ET - The Thunder have been inconsistent on the offensive end of late. However, now comes the perfect remedy. The Mavericks are in town and Dallas is eliminated from post-season contention. I fully expect Oklahoma City to run and gun this game and it is likely to turn into a home blowout. However, I am never a fan of laying huge points in the NBA and this spread currently sits at a dozen points. Don't be surprised if the Mavericks score well in "garbage time" in this game as well. The Mavs are 6-3 to the over in Sunday games this season. The Thunder are 10-2 to the over in their last 12 games against teams with a losing record. OKC has allowed 115 points or more in 4 of its last 6 games. Dallas has allowed an average of 115.4 points in its last 7 games. 10* OVER the total in Oklahoma City |
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03-29-19 | Pacers v. Celtics OVER 213 | Top | 112-114 | Win | 100 | 10 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #517 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Indiana Pacers @ 7:05 ET - The Celtics are 7-2 to the over in their last 9 games. Boston has allowed 48% or more from the field in 7 of their last 10 games. The Celtics have shot 47% or better from the field in 10 of their last 12 games. The other time they hosted Indiana this season the game totaled 243 points. The Pacers are 8-4 to the over in Friday games this season. Boston is 13-8 to the over this season after a win by a margin of double digits. The Celtics also are 10-6 to the over in games against Central Division opponents. The tempo at which Boston has been playing of late and the fact the Celtics are at home here and should control the pace of this game will be the factors that combine to lead to another high-scoring game between these two. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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03-27-19 | Pacers v. Thunder OVER 215 | Top | 99-107 | Loss | -106 | 12 h 25 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #575 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oklahoma City Thunder vs Indiana Pacers @ 8:05 ET - I am well aware of the fact that the Thunder have had some struggles on offense in recent weeks. However, I am expecting a big bounce back on their home floor tonight after both Paul George and Russell Westbrook struggled in Oklahoma City's loss at Memphis Monday. As for the Pacers, they are expected to get a boost with the return of point guard Darren Collison tonight. Even if he does not return though, look for Indiana's struggles with defense on the road to continue. The Pacers have lost 8 straight road games and the fact they've allowed 110 points per game in those defeats has certainly played a role in it. The Thunder defense has not been impressive of late either as they've allowed 113.5 points per game during their current 1-5 overall stretch their last 6 games. The OKC loss to the Grizzlies Monday was an ugly one and the over is 4-1 in 2019 when when the Thunder are off a loss by a margin of 11 points or more. Indiana is 3-0 to the over the last 3 times they were off a game in which they scored 115 points or more. Look for the Pacers offensive production to pick up right where it left off in the win versus Denver Sunday while the Thunder offense gets back on a roll at home after the poor effort versus the Grizz began this week on the wrong foot. 10* OVER the total in Oklahoma City |
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03-25-19 | Thunder v. Grizzlies OVER 218.5 | Top | 103-115 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 13 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #549 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Memphis Grizzlies vs Oklahoma City Thunder @ 8:05 ET - The Grizzlies are off an under but the over was 6-1 in their 7 prior games. As their hopes for a playoff spot have faded, their focus on the defensive end has also faded as well but the markets aren't properly assessing that factor and we can take advantage here. The total opened up at a 220.5 and has already dropped to a 218.5 as of early game day morning. It is likely headed even lower as the recent under streak that the Thunder had is fresh in the minds of the marketplace too. However, OKC is now 2-0-1 to the over in their last 3 games and they've allowed 47% or more from the field in EACH of their last 4 games. The over is a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times these teams have met in Memphis. The Grizzlies are 8-4 to the over this season when off an upset loss as a favorite. Oklahoma City is 18-8 to the over this season when off a non-conference game. Also, the Thunder have gone 9-2 to the over in their last 11 games versus teams with a losing record. Look for more of the same here and fade the false perception of the marketplace in this one. 10* OVER the total in Memphis |
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03-14-19 | Thunder v. Pacers OVER 219 | Top | 106-108 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 21 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #561 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Oklahoma City Thunder @ 7:05 ET - The Thunder are off a win versus Brooklyn yesterday that stayed well under the total as I know all too well. I won't hesitate to come right back with the over today. Oklahoma City had a horrific start on the offensive end yesterday and that set the tone for the entire game. Now on the road and in a back to back spot, the Thunder know they can ill afford another slow start. I look for OKC to hit the floor running in this one and we should see a good pace throughout. Oklahoma City is 16-6 to the over this season when coming off a non-conference game. I am well aware of the fact that, like the Thunder, the Pacers have been trending under of late. However, the Pacers have scored an average of 125 points per game in their last 4 home games versus teams from the Western Conference. The over went 3-1 in those 4 games. Indiana, going further back, is 6-2 to the over the last 8 times the Pacers have been a host in non-conference action. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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03-13-19 | Nets v. Thunder OVER 230 | Top | 96-108 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 53 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #553 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oklahoma City Thunder vs Brooklyn Nets @ 7:05 ET - I looked like a fool with my play on the over in Brooklyn on Monday but I don't know if I have ever seen something like this in my life! The Nets gave up just 75 points even though they allowed the Pistons 97 field goal attempts! Detroit simply was horrific with their shooting as they made just 27.8% of their shots from the field! Truly unreal and also noteworthy here as the over is a perfect 4-0 the last 4 times the Nets were off a game in which they allowed 75 points or less. Brooklyn's pace has certainly been conducive to overs of late even though overs have not been cashing in. The Nets have allowed an average of 101 field goal attempts in their past two games and 97.2 FG attempts their last 11 games! The Thunder certainly have no qualms about getting into high-scoring shootouts with teams but, like the Nets, they are off of a bit of an unusual game. They played the defensive-minded Jazz and Utah and Oklahoma City both failed to reach the century mark in that game. The over is 18-9 in Brooklyn's last 27 games against Northwest Division opponents. The over is 13-7 in Oklahoma City's home games with a posted total of 220 points or more this season. The over is 4-1 the last 5 times the Thunder were off a game in which they held their opponent under 100 points. 10* OVER the total in Oklahoma City |
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03-12-19 | Cavs v. 76ers OVER 221.5 | Top | 99-106 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 57 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach NBA Game #535 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 7:05 ET - The Cavs are off a big upset win over the Raptors last night. Don't be surprised if they are a little flat on the defensive end tonight. The 76ers are rested after a big win over Indiana Sunday. In that game the Sixers really turned the heat up on defense in the 2nd half to eventually pull away and win by double digits. As they now face one of the worst teams in the NBA and also have 2 more off days on deck after this. I would not be surprised to see Philly lacking in defensive intensity tonight as well. The last 3 meetings between these teams all went over the total and they averaged 242.7 points per game. As you would expect with that type of average, all 3 games flew over the total! The Cavaliers enter this game on a 7-3 run to the over. Cleveland is 11-5 to the over this season in games against Atlantic Division opponents. As a home favorite of 12.5 points or more, the 76ers are 3-1 to the over this season. The Sixers have averaged scoring 124 points per game in their last 3 games against the Cavs. The Cavaliers have scored an average of 121.3 points per game in their last 3 visits to the City of Brotherly Love. Look for more of the same in this one as it crushes the posted total. 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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03-11-19 | Pistons v. Nets OVER 221 | Top | 75-103 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 59 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Detroit Pistons @ 7:35 ET - The Nets have stayed under the total in 4 straight games. However, Brooklyn has scored an average of 118 points per game their last 3 games. But, as a result of the under streak, the posted total on this one already dropped from an opener of 222.5 down to a 221 overnight heading into Monday. The Pistons come into this game off an under but, prior to that, the over was 9-1 in Detroit's last 10 games! Also, the over is 10-5 this season in Pistons games against Atlantic Division opponents. Detroit has averaged scoring 121 points per game in its last 4 games. The over in Nets game improves to 14-8 the last 22 times they've entered a game on an under streak of 3 more consecutive games. Both teams have been scoring very well and that continues here. 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |
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03-09-19 | Wizards v. Wolves OVER 241 | Top | 130-135 | Win | 100 | 10 h 30 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #573 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Timberwolves vs Washington Wizards @ 8:05 ET - The over is a red hot 11-2 in the Wolves last 13 games. The over is 12-2 in the Wizards last 14 games. This is a back to back spot for Washington and they are 29-13 to the over their last 42 when in the 2nd game of a back to back. The Wizards are 9-1 to the over in Saturday games this season. Minnesota is playing this game with revenge and that is a situation that has seen them go 21-9 to the over this season. Also, the Timberwolves are 7-0 to the over in games against teams from the Southeast Division this season. Minnesota is 18-6 to the over when off a game in which they allowed 130 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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03-08-19 | Wizards v. Hornets OVER 233.5 | Top | 111-112 | Loss | -106 | 14 h 54 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #551 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Washington Wizards @ 7:05 ET - The over is 14-2 in Washington's last 16 games. This is a key divisional battle but I just don't see how this game won't go over the total as both teams have been trending over and they've also trended over in their recent match-ups. 5 of the last 6 meetings between these teams have gone over the total. Charlotte's most recent game stayed under the total but they entered that game having gone over the total in 9 of their 12 prior games. Also, the Hornets most recent game ended up with a ridiculously low total of points scored. Charlotte managed only 84 points against the Heat on Wednesday and the over is a perfect 5-0 this season when the Hornets are off a game in which they were held to 93 points or less. Charlotte held the Heat to just 91 points on Wednesday and the Hornets are 5-0 to the over the last 5 times they are off a game in which they held their opponent under the century mark. Charlotte's divisional games are 8-4 to the over this season. Washington is 9-3 to the over in divisional games this season. The over is 13-6 in Wizards games with posted total of 230 points or more. In other words, though this total may appear to be big, it will prove to once again be not big enough. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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03-07-19 | Pacers v. Bucks OVER 220.5 | Top | 98-117 | Loss | -106 | 15 h 38 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #547 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers @ 8:05 ET - The Pacers are off an under versus the Bulls Tuesday but they actually allowed 93 field goal attempts in that game. A poor shooting night for Chicago helped insure that the game did not go over the total. However, Indiana entered that game on a 5-1 run to the over. As for the Bucks, they are also off of an under. Milwaukee had a poor shooting night at Phoenix Monday. Despite 95 field goal attempts, the Bucks game versus the Suns stayed under the total. Certainly the proper pace was there for an over and that is nothing new in recent Milwaukee games. The Bucks entered that game on a 4-1 run to the over. 2 of the last 3 meetings between the Pacers and Bucks in Milwaukee have gone over the total. The Bucks are happy to be back home and I expect a huge game from them on the offensive end after that shot poorly in back to back games to wrap up their road trip. The over is 27-16 when Milwaukee is off an upset loss as a favorite. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 this season when the Bucks enter a game with two days of rest between games. Indiana is playing this game with home loss revenge and I look for the Pacers over to improve to 5-2 this season when in that situation. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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03-05-19 | Rockets v. Raptors OVER 226.5 | Top | 107-95 | Loss | -108 | 15 h 24 m | Show |
TNT Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #519 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - The Rockets burned me bad on Sunday, though they beat the Celtics at Boston. The problem was that Houston scored extremely well each of the first 3 quarters but then in the 4th they didn't even total half the amount of points they did in any of the first 3 quarters. The result was a painful bad beat with the over in that situation Sunday and I won't hesitate to come right back with the over here after that was one of the worst beats of the season for sure. The total on this game at Toronto opened up at a 228.5 but has dropped to a 226.5 as of very early Tuesday morning. This is offering us great line value here. The Raptors have gone over the total in 5 of their last 7 games. Toronto is off a loss at Detroit where they scored only 107 points. Prior to that poor effort they had scored 118 points or more in 12 of their last 16 games. The Rockets were held to 115 at Boston due to a horrific 4th quarter but Houston entered that game having scored 118 points or more in 9 of their 12 prior games. You can see from these numbers why it is logical to expect this game to get to the mid-230s and yet the posted total has dropped to mid-220s. In terms of technical value, the over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings between these teams. Toronto also has revenge here and that is a situation that has seen them go 13-5 to the over this season. The Raptors also are 7-1 to the over this season in their games against Southwest Division opponents. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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03-03-19 | Rockets v. Celtics OVER 225 | Top | 115-104 | Loss | -102 | 6 h 35 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #575 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Houston Rockets @ 3:35 ET - The very first number that popped up on this total offshore yesterday was a 229.5 and now, as of early this morning, the total has dropped down to as low as a 225 in many books. I understand the market perception here as the Celtics are known for their defense but lets not forget this is still a non-conference match-up. I like overs in non-conference match-ups as a general rule because you generally don't see the same defensive intensity you see in, for example, a key divisional battle. The last two meetings between these teams, including the match-up this season in Houston, have each totaled 240 points or more. The Rockets enter this game having averaged 118 points per game their last 13 games. Boston's last two home games have stayed under the total but, prior to this, the Celtics were on a 5-0 run to the over in home games. Also, even including their last 2 games (unders), Boston has allowed an average of 112 points per game in their last 11 games overall. Since the All Star break a Celtics offense that had been red hot before the break, has had its share of struggles. However, on Sunday they will take advantage of a Rockets defense that is allowing 111 points per game this season. This is the Celtics 3rd game of their homestand and I look for them to light it up. The Rockets have allowed 114.3 points per game in their last 6 games. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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02-27-19 | Rockets v. Hornets OVER 226.5 | Top | 118-113 | Win | 100 | 10 h 1 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets @ 7:05 ET - The Rockets are healthy and in rhythm again. Even so, their last 3 games have remained under the total. That is helping to keep this total lower than it should be. This one opened up at a 228 yesterday and has dropped to as low as a 226.5 as of early this morning. Houston has scored an average of 118 points per game in its last 7 road games. Charlotte is off an under versus Golden State but the Hornets entered the Warriors game having gone 6-2 to the over in their 8 prior games. Charlotte has averaged 118 points per game in it last 5 home games. You can see why I am expecting this game to get into the mid-230s! The Hornets lost by double digits to the defending champs on Monday and they are 9-4 to the over this season when off a loss by a margin of 10 points or more. Each of the Hornets last 3 games have totaled at least 231 points. 3 of Houston's last 4 games have totaled at least 230 points. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-26-19 | Magic v. Knicks OVER 216 | Top | 103-108 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
Game of the Week Total - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - The Knicks are building confidence and that lends itself to a high-scoring game versus the Magic here. New York is off a big win over the Spurs Sunday. The Knicks have now won 2 of their last 3 games and also, New York has gone over the total in 2 of its last 3 home games. The Magic show strong defense to the marketplace as their field goal percentage allowed has been low in recent games. However, Orlando is off a huge upset win at Toronto on Sunday. In other words, this is a flat spot for the Magic as they go from facing the best team in the east to now facing the worst team in the east. Also, the pace for high-scoring games has certainly been there of late for Orlando. In the last 11 Magic games, the average field goal attempts for their opponents has been 92. Also, remember the upset win over the Raptors I just mentioned? The over is 13-3 this season when Orlando is off an outright upset as an underdog! Also, when the Magic are off a win by a double digit margin this season, the over has gone 10-4. As for the Knicks, the over is 2-0 the last two times they've been an underdog to Orlando. I look for another high scoring one here as the Knicks are installed as a sizable home dog here and bring another huge effort. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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02-25-19 | Warriors v. Hornets OVER 233.5 | Top | 121-110 | Loss | -102 | 12 h 33 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #565 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Golden State Warriors @ 7:05 ET - The Warriors are fired up off a loss in which they scored 112 points. That point total may not seem that bad but, keep in mind, Golden State entered that game having averaged 125 points per game their 4 prior home games. Now the Warriors are on the road and ready to run and gun their way to their typical success. I expect the result to be a solid over here at Charlotte. The Hornets have gone over the total in their last 3 games. Also, in home games, Charlotte is on a 4-0 run to the over and has averaged 119.5 points per game in those 4 contests as a host. The Hornets are 5-2 to the over this season against Pacific Division opponents and I look for Charlotte to improve to 8-4 to the over this season when off an upset loss as a favorite. Keep in mind, like the Warriors, the Hornets are off an outright loss as a favorite in their Saturday game. As for Golden State, the over is 13-5 when they are facing a team with a losing record this season. Also, the Warriors are 5-1 to the over this season against Southeast Division opponents and 15-8 to the over in road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-23-19 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 233 | Top | 118-112 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 17 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #549 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets @ 8:35 ET - We're getting line value here with the total dropping from 237.5 yesterday afternoon to 233 this morning. Part of the reason for the line move is the James Harden injury situation. Should he not play here I still am fully comfortable with this play. However, I really would be surprised if the does not go. Facing the Warriors in a huge game and coming off a loss Thursday - so a day of rest in between - look for Harden to go here. For the next two weeks after this game the Rockets will be facing Eastern Conference teams. Truly this is Houston's last big game for awhile. Not only are they facing the World Champs, it is the same team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season. This is a double revenge spot however for the Warriors as Houston has gotten the best of them in each of the first two meetings this season. The last meeting went over the total and, though it did go to overtime, keep in mind the teams did have 238 at the end of regulation. Look for another wild one Saturday night on ABC. Also, the over is 8-3 this season in Rockets games against Pacific Division opponents. I look for the Warriors over to improve to 11-6 this season when they are playing a game with revenge. After losing both regular season match-ups this season, the Warriors are NOT going to take their foot off the gas here no matter what the score is. So take advantage of the drop on this total and look for a high-scoring shootout! 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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02-22-19 | Nuggets v. Mavs OVER 218.5 | Top | 114-104 | Loss | -109 | 13 h 43 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #527 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Dallas Mavericks vs Denver Nuggets @ 8:35 ET - The Nuggets are a solid 16-8 to the over in their last 24 games. This total opened up at a 220 and has dropped to a 218.5 as of early this morning. We're getting good value here considering that the last two meetings between these teams in Dallas went over the total. Also, in their only meeting so far this season (at Denver) the teams combined for 244 points (and had 143 at the half). Don't be surprised if another shootout erupts tonight as I also like overs when it is the weaker team that is at home. In this case that is the Mavericks of course and, as you would expect, they shoot better when at home. As for Denver, they are one of the top teams in the league and score quite well most nights on anybody anywhere! The over is 10-4 in the Nuggets last 14 games against teams that are allowing an average of 106 or more on the season. The over is 20-10 in Denver's last 30 February games. All signs point to the over improving to 3-0 in the Mavs last 3 games. 10* OVER the total in Dallas |
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02-14-19 | Hornets v. Magic OVER 214.5 | Top | 89-127 | Win | 100 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #523 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Orlando Magic vs Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - The Hornets are off a loss at Indiana Monday but held the Pacers to just 99 points. The over is a perfect 4-0 the last 4 times Charlotte is off a game in which they held their opponent under 100 points. The Magic are off a big road win at New Orleans where they held the Pelicans to 88 points. The over is a perfect 7-0 the last 7 times Orlando is off a game in which they held their opponents to 90 points or less. The pacing for an over has certainly been there in recent Magic games as they've allowed their opponents more than 90 field goal attempts in 7 of their last 8 games. Also, Orlando has had at least 90 field goal attempts in 7 of its last 9 games. The Hornets have fared extremely well against the Magic in recent seasons and, before being held to just 32.2% from the field by the Pacers Monday, Charlotte had scored 115 points or more in 3 of their last 4 games. Orlando's win at New Orleans was an upset win as they were a dog to the Pelicans. That certainly holds significance here as the Magic are a perfect 11-0 to the over when off an outright win as an underdog. That means we have over trending of a combined 22-0 here supporting this play. 10* OVER the total in Orlando |
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02-11-19 | Knicks v. Cavs OVER 210.5 | Top | 104-107 | Win | 100 | 11 h 14 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #553 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks @ 7:05 ET - The very first numbers that popped up on this total offshore were as high as a 212.5 in some books. It has since moved down about a bucket from the opener and I like the value here that we're getting in a game where neither team is highly motivated to play much defense. That's because the Cavaliers and Knicks are both in the running for the #1 spot in the NBA draft and are simply playing out the string on very disappointing seasons. I am well aware of the fact that New York has been on a long-term trend of unders and that the Cavs have also been trending under. However, there is plenty of reason to believe that this one plays out quite loose and high-scoring. Cleveland has allowed 114.6 points per game in their last 11 home games. The over is 11-5 in the Cavaliers last 16 home games. The Knicks are allowing 115.7 points per game in their road games on the season! Both teams have unimpressive offensive production but when defenses are this bad there is going to be plenty of quality looks at the basket. This is especially true in a game that is likely to be played a little "loosey goosey" with very little attention to detail on defense. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 this season in Cavaliers games against Atlantic Division opponents and also the over improves to 4-1 in the rare situation of the Cavs being a favorite in a game. Two bad teams, not a lot of defense, and a shootout breaks out in this one! 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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02-10-19 | Magic v. Hawks OVER 223 | Top | 124-108 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #547 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Hawks vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - The Magic are off a huge upset win at Milwaukee last night as they held the Bucks to just 83 points. You know it will be easy for them to now fall flat on the defensive end of the courts as they go from facing one of the best teams in the East to facing a team that is nearly 20 games under .500 on the season. Yes the Hawks are a division rival but it is not much of a rivalry when a team is having an awful season. Atlanta did put up 120 points yesterday against Charlotte but the Hawks, even though they were at home, allowed 129 points. As bad as that sounds it is truly not that unusual. The over is 10-4 in Atlanta's last 14 games and a lot of it has to do with porous defense as well as playing at a fast pace. The Hawks have now allowed an average of 122 points per game their last 14 games. The Magic are favored by a bucket here. So if the Hawks continue to play as they have been for the past month now and allow 122 here and the odds maker is right about the spread (as they so often are) this could be a 122-120 game. That puts us nearly 20 points over the posted number on this game. The total was as high as a 226 with early numbers but has been pushed down to a 223. In typical contrarian fashion, I am on the other side of the move in this one! Prior to yesterday's dominating road win at Milwaukee, the over was actually on a 4-1 run in Orlando's last 5 games away from home. How likely is another "grinder" for the Magic after yesterday's low-scoring win? VERY unlikely! The over is 8-1 this season in Orlando games when the Magic are off a game in which they allowed 90 points or less. Look for a shootout here! 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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02-09-19 | Spurs v. Jazz OVER 221 | Top | 105-125 | Win | 100 | 9 h 25 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #517 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Utah Jazz vs San Antonio Spurs @ 5:05 ET - The over is 8-1 in the Spurs last 9 games. The over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between these teams and that includes 4-1 the last 5 times they've met in Utah. The Jazz are a long-term 10-3 to the over in home games with a posted total of 220 or more. In other words, though a big total like this on a game in Utah is quite rare, don't let the big total scare you away from the over. The Spurs have been putting up huge points but can't stop anybody. Also, the Jazz are seeking revenge for a loss at San Antonio in the most recent meeting between these teams. Keep in mind, Utah has been known for some huge shooting performances at home this season and that includes putting up 139 the last time they hosted the Spurs. Also, the over is 12-1 this season in San Antonio's road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. As you can see with both of these teams, when big totals are posted on their games, it has proven to be justified nearly every time and I feel strongly that will be the case again here. The desperate Spurs have lost 3 straight games so they're not going to back down here but they'll have to do it with offense because their defense has had plenty of issues of late and that means this one turns into a shootout. 10* OVER the total in Utah |
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02-06-19 | Wizards v. Bucks OVER 230 | Top | 129-148 | Win | 100 | 13 h 3 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #563 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Washington Wizards @ 8:05 ET - Huge total posted on this game but absolutely justified. The Wizards recently had one strong defensive game at home against Indiana. In their other 4 games since January 27th, Washington has allowed their opponent to shoot 50% or better from the field in all 4 games. The Wizards have allowed an average of 129 points per game in those 4 games. One of those games was at home against the Bucks and the game totaled 246 points. I would not be surprised to see a similar result tonight. Milwaukee did allow only 94 points in their next game but it certainly wasn't due to a lack of pace! The Bucks hosted the Nets and Brooklyn actually attempted 102 shots from the field but it was simply 'one of those nights' and the Nets made just 32.4% of their shots. While fast pace is expected again here, you can expect the Wizards will shoot very well. Washington has shot 49% from the field their last 4 games and averaged 116.6 points per game their last 5 games. The over is 17-7 this season in Wizards games against teams with a winning record. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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02-03-19 | Thunder v. Celtics OVER 226 | Top | 129-134 | Win | 100 | 7 h 2 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #527 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Oklahoma City Thunder @ 2:05 ET - The recent match-up history between these teams has trended under and that is the direction many will be looking in this one as a result. However, the way these two have been playing of late and the fact this is a non-conference match-up (generally a little less defensive intensity in those), has me looking for a solid over in this match-up. Both teams are red hot. The Celtics have won 8 of their last 9 games and averaged 116 points per game in doing so. The Thunder have won 7 straight games and they've reached the century mark in each of their last dozen games. In fact, Oklahoma City has averaged 124 points per game in these 12 games. Two of those games did go to OT but if we remove those points for the Thunder they are still averaging, in regulation, 122 points per game those dozen games! The over is 10-2 in those 12 OKC games! The over is 7-2 in Oklahoma City's last 9 games versus teams that average 106 points or more per game. The over is 14-4 this season in Thunder games when they are coming off a non-conference game. The over is 13-5 this season when the Celtics face a team with a winning record. History says under but the current play of these two teams absolutely suggests otherwise. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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02-02-19 | Bucks v. Wizards OVER 227 | Top | 131-115 | Win | 100 | 9 h 37 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Washington Wizards vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 7:05 ET - The odds makers made a huge mistake, right? The first total that popped up on this game was a 231.5 on Friday afternoon. Of course with the history of unders between these teams and the perceived "mistake" the total has been driven down to a 227 as of early Saturday morning. I am happy to jump on the over and grab the added value here. The Bucks are off a very strong defensive effort to get a big win over Toronto, the top team in the East. Milwaukee entered that game having allowed an average of 111.5 points per game in their two prior games. As for the Wizards, they are off a surprisingly strong effort on the defensive end as they held the Pacers to 89 points in their win over Indiana. Prior to that, Washington had allowed 124 points per game in their two prior games. While one could argue that those were on the road, also note that prior to beating Indiana the Wizards allowed 126 points in their most recent home game. Both the Bucks and Wizards have been scoring a ton of points and now coming off big wins that involved huge defensive efforts I expect a letdown on D here and an all-out offensive onslaught in this game to result! Note that the over is 21-12 when Milwaukee is off an upset win as an underdog and that includes 3-1 this season. The Bucks are also on a 29-10 run to the over in Saturday games including 6-2 to the over this season. The over is 13-5 in Wizards home games with a posted total of 220 points or more this season. Washington is 6-1 to the over this season when playing with 2 days of rest between games. The Wizards are also on a 23-10 run to the over in Saturday games including 6-1 to the over this season. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Washington |
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01-30-19 | Mavs v. Knicks OVER 217 | Top | 114-90 | Loss | -109 | 12 h 39 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #555 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Dallas Mavericks @ 7:35 ET - The Mavericks are off a strong scoring effort but fell just short in their loss versus the Raptors Sunday. Dallas is 8-5 to the over this season when off a game in which they scored 115 points or more. Also, the Mavs are seeking revenge in this games as they lost when they hosted the Knicks earlier this season. As a result, look for Dallas to go hard here and not take their foot off the gas even if they get a big lead. The Mavericks are 5-2 to the over this season when playing with home loss revenge. As for New York, they didn't score well in their most recent home game but that was against defensive-minded Miami. Prior to that game the Knicks 4 prior home games saw them average 107.5 points per game. Also, their match-ups with Western Conference opponents are known for being high-scoring. The over is 10-5 this season in New York's non-conference games. Dallas has gone 5-2 to the over this season in games against Atlantic Division opponents. The Mavericks first game with the Knicks totaled 224 points and I fully expect a similar total to be amassed in the rematch as the situation is ideal for a high-scoring game. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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01-29-19 | Bucks v. Pistons OVER 218.5 | Top | 115-105 | Win | 100 | 11 h 14 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #541 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Detroit Pistons vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 7:05 ET - I know these teams have trended under in recent weeks. I am also aware of the fact that recent meetings between these teams each of the last few seasons have trended under the total as well. However, in typical contrarian fashion here, I am backing the over. Of course it is not without plenty of good reason. First off the Bucks have averaged 114.3 points per game in their 3 games against the Pistons this season. As for Detroit, though they struggled in their games at Milwaukee, they have averaged 107 points per game the last two times they've hosted the Bucks. The Pistons made 14 three pointers in their most recent home contest versus the Bucks and, like most teams, perform better on the offensive end when at home. Detroit is also well rested here and the over is 7-3 the last 10 times the Pistons entered a game with 3 or more days of rest between games. Look for the over to improve to 4-1 this season in Detroit's Tuesday games. As for the Bucks, they're fired up off a loss at Oklahoma City. Milwaukee is 29-14 to the over when off a game in which they allowed 115 points or more. The Bucks won't take their foot off the gas in this one against the Pistons. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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01-28-19 | Warriors v. Pacers OVER 226 | Top | 132-100 | Win | 100 | 9 h 25 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #529 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Golden State Warriors @ 7:05 ET - The Warriors are off of an under but the over was 9-2 in Golden State's 11 prior games. The Pacers enter this game with a record of 10-4 to the over in their last 14 games. The teams combined for 232 points in their most recent meeting in Indiana. The Warriors have been red hot and scoring a ton of points. Golden State is averaging 129 points their last 12 games. If they hit that "average" here and win by 9 as the odds makers are projecting you're talking about a 129-120 game. I am not saying we're going to see 249 points here but I do feel that this number shows we have some great value with playing the over in this match-up. The Pacers have had just one bad game offensively in their last 7 games. In the other 6 games as a host since Christmas, Indiana has averaged 119 points per game. Truly one could make the argument this is going to be a 129 to 119 type of game. The over is 13-7 in Golden State's road games with a posted total of 220 points or more this season. The over is a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times Indiana has entered a game off a road loss. They bounce back with a strong performance on the offensive end on their home floor but they aren't going to stop a Warriors team that will go all out in looking to cap a perfect 5-0 road trip. Golden State won't hold back here as they have two off days on deck before facing the Sixers Thursday. Also, the Warriors are seeking revenge for getting swept by the Pacers last season so they won't take their foot off the gas either. 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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01-27-19 | Raptors v. Mavs OVER 219 | Top | 123-120 | Win | 100 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #517 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Dallas Mavericks vs Toronto Raptors @ 7:05 ET - Mavericks games have resulted in unders in 5 straight games and 13 of their last 15. So how I am playing this one? Contrarian of course and going over the total but it is with good reason. First off Dallas has looked much better in their last two games since Dennis Smith Jr returned. He and Luka Doncic give the Mavs a powerful 1-2 punch. As for the Raptors, Kawhi Leonard finally came back after 4 games off. Though the Raptors lost that game at Houston they did put up 119 points. With Toronto entering this game off back to back losses and Leonard able to quickly shake the rust off in his first game back, this one is likely to be played at a great pace with plenty of points. The Raptors have averaged 117 points per game in their last 13 games. They are favored by 5 points here. Toronto winning this game by 117-112 certainly would not come as a surprise and that is a full 10 points over the posted total on this game. The Raptors are 5-1 to the over in games against Southwest Division opponents this season. The Mavericks are 5-1 to the over in Sunday games this season. 10* OVER the total in Dallas |
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01-25-19 | Heat v. Cavs OVER 209.5 | Top | 100-94 | Loss | -103 | 11 h 52 m | Show |
Game of the Week Total - Rickenbach NBA Game #567 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs Miami Heat @ 7:35 ET - The Heat are off back to back games where they were held under 100 points. The last 3 times that Miami has entered a game off back to back games where they scored 101 points or less, the Heat are a perfect 3-0 to the over in their next game. Facing a Cavaliers team that is a horrific 9-40 SU this season and allowing 114 points per game is certain to help Miami's offensive production get back on track. Keep in mind, the over is 2-0 this season Heat games versus the Cavs and Miami averaged 117.5 points in those two games. Also, prior to back to back unders for Miami in a pair of low-scoring losses, the Heat were on a 9-4 run to the over. Cleveland is on a 13-4 run to the over in their last 17 games. Also, the Heat are 8-4 to the over this season when off an upset loss as a favorite. Miami is also 13-8 to the over in their games against teams with a losing record this season. Cleveland is 8-2 to the over this season in Friday games. Also, the Cavaliers are a long-term 51-25 to the over when off a game in which they allowed 115 points or more. Look for Miami to get a big lead in this game and then coast to the win which means a very relaxed game without a lot of intense defense as this game progresses. That should lead to plenty of points and the Heat, off back to back losses, aren't going to slow down here even with a big lead. Take advantage of the low total posted on this one. Yesterday this total was high as a 211.5 when it first was coming up. It's dropped a bucket from there and was already a great value at that number. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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01-24-19 | Pelicans v. Thunder OVER 237 | Top | 116-122 | Win | 100 | 10 h 16 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #559 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oklahoma City Thunder vs New Orleans Pelicans @ 8:05 ET - Anthony Davis is still out for the Pelicans. While the first two games he missed both resulted in unders I expect that trend to reverse here. Davis is one of the top defensive big men in the league and his absence will have the Thunder attacking the rim early and often in this one. Oklahoma City has been on a scoring tear and they love to play run and gun so I also don't expect too much of a concern from the Thunder in terms of paying attention to defense on the other end of the floor. In other words, this one results in a high-scoring shootout. The over is 5-2 this season when New Orleans is playing the 2nd game of a back to back. Also, the over is 7-1 in OKC's last 8 games overall. Though this total may seem too big, note that the Thunder are 10-3 to the over this season in games with a posted total of 220 points or more. Oklahoma City did lose at New Orleans last month so they are seeking revenge here and they are the healthier team (since Davis is out). That being the case, and catching the Pelicans in a back to back, I have no doubt that the Thunder will employ a game plan of running N.O. up and down the court all game long. Also, since it is a revenge game, OKC won't take their foot off the gas either and that means a ton of points scored in this one. Also, the Thunder have two off days on deck after this game so there is no holding back in this match-up. 10* OVER the total in Oklahoma City |
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01-22-19 | Blazers v. Thunder OVER 228 | Top | 114-123 | Win | 100 | 13 h 26 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #531 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oklahoma City Thunder vs Portland Trail Blazers @ 8:05 ET - The Blazers are off a win at Utah last night that stayed under the total. Of course Jazz games are known for trending toward being lower scoring match-ups. However Portland was on a 5-1 run to the over entering last night's contest and I fully expect the high-scoring ways to resume at Oklahoma City tonight. Why? Because the Thunder certainly have been in run and gun mode for an extended stretch. With their big win at New York yesterday afternoon, OKC is on a 6-1 run to the over. Also, the Thunder are on a 13-6 run to the over this season as a home favorite. With this game played at a good pace and with some weary legs on defense considering this is a back to back spot, look for little resistance from the D for long stretches in this one. The recent over trending of both teams resumes in this one Tuesday. 10* OVER the total in Oklahoma City |
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01-20-19 | Suns v. Wolves OVER 227 | Top | 114-116 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns @ 7:05 ET - The Timberwolves are playing this game with revenge and that is a situation that has seen the over go 15-7 this season. The Suns are in a tough back to back spot as they were at Charlotte yesterday where they got crushed and allowed 135 points. This is nothing new as it has been a miserable season for Phoenix and they've allowed 121 points per game in their last 6 road games. The Wolves need a huge win to bounce back after back to back losses and with the Suns putting up little resistance, Minnesota can essentially name the score here. It will be a high-scoring win (likely by double digits as you can see with the big line posted on this game) for the Wolves in a run and gun type game. The over is 14-2 in the Timberwolves last 16 games and I expect another one here. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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01-13-19 | Bucks v. Hawks OVER 230.5 | Top | 133-114 | Win | 100 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #583 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Hawks vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 3:35 ET - Once again the Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as probable for this game and, hopefully, unlike Friday that will not change before game time and burn me. But either way, I look for the Bucks (Greek Freak or not) to have their foot firmly on the gas from the opening tip all the way to the final horn in this one. Milwaukee is off a loss at Washington and will take advantage of facing one of the worst teams in the league here. Of course that is why they are a double digit favorite but I don't like laying double digits on the road in the NBA and also feel Atlanta (off a big road win) will be able to stay hot and put up plenty of points in this one as they are back on their home floor. Of course at first glance this total looked a little on the high side when it opened up. This has caused the markets to move it down some and in typical contrarian fashion I am taking advantage of the additional value on the high side of this one. The fact is that the odds makers set this total big for a reason and I concur because the Bucks are going to push the tempo all game long and look to put a white-washing on the Hawks. The over is 26-15 when Milwaukee is off an upset loss as a favorite. The over is 13-8 in Bucks Sunday games. The over is a long-term 29-17 in Hawks games against Central Division opponents. 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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01-01-19 | Jazz v. Raptors OVER 210.5 | Top | 116-122 | Win | 100 | 11 h 6 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #575 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Utah Jazz @ 7:35 ET - Yes, I am aware of Kyle Lowry being out for this game. However, I am also aware of the fact that the Raptors are off RARE back to back POOR shooting games. There have been only 2 other times that Toronto shot less than 42% from the field in back to back games. BOTH times their next game flew over the total and, in fact, the average points scored in that next game was 229! Of course the Jazz like to play a slower, grinder-style of game but it is not their choice today. With this game in Toronto, the Raptors will dictate the tempo. The over is 17-10 in Utah's last 27 against Atlantic Division opponents. Look for the over to improve to 5-2 on the season when the Jazz are playing with home loss revenge. Toronto is 17-8 to the over against Northwest Division opponents. Look for the over to improve to 4-1 on the season in Raptors Tuesday games. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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12-18-18 | Lakers v. Nets OVER 227.5 | Top | 110-115 | Loss | -104 | 11 h 47 m | Show |
Game of the Week Total - Rickenbach NBA Game #547 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Los Angeles Lakers @ 7:35 ET - For the 4th time in their last 6 road games, the Lakers allowed at least 48.5% shooting from the field as they gave up 128 points in a loss at Washington on Sunday. Los Angeles, of course, will be looking to bounce back off that loss and I expect their going to have a huge scoring night Tuesday at Brooklyn but I also expect them, per the above, to struggle to stop the Nets. Brooklyn has actually been very hot with their shooting. Part of the reason the Nets are on a 6-0 ATS run and 5-0 SU run is because they have shot 52.1% from the field in their last 4 games! Brooklyn, however, has also allowed 52.9% shooting in their last 3 games! As you would expect with those types of numbers, the O/U is 3-0 in the Nets last 3 games. LA is also 3-0 to the over in their last 3 games. Additionally, the Lakers O/U is a perfect 4-0 in their last 4 road games with a posted total of 220 or more. The Nets O/U is 5-1 when they are off a game in which they scored 130 points or more. Brooklyn is also 4-1 to the over when they are on a winning streak of 3 or more games. The Nets are 9-4 to the over in games against teams with a winning record. 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |
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12-17-18 | Jazz v. Rockets OVER 213 | Top | 97-102 | Loss | -104 | 11 h 1 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #537 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Houston Rockets vs Utah Jazz @ 8:05 ET - The Jazz are off on extremely ugly shooting game Saturday but it was played at Mexico City. After that tough performance in an unusual venue look for Utah to shoot much better in a very familiar venue now as they face a Rockets team that eliminated them from the playoffs in the most recent post-season. What is interesting is that now Houston is the revenge-minded team in this match-up as the Jazz took each of the first two games this season. Look for this to result in a very spirited effort from the Rockets here with plenty of points scored! Houston will play "Rockets ball" on their home floor in this one. They've averaged 120.7 points per game in their last 6 home games. Utah should certainly bounce back after the low-scoring game against the Magic. In fact, the over is 5-1 the last 6 times the Jazz were off a game in which they were held to 99 points or less! Utah has averaged a solid 106 points per game in their last 3 games at Houston and we've got a low total to work with here when you consider the way the Rockets have been piling up points at home. The over is 5-1 in Houston's last 6 home games. The over is also 4-1 this season when the Rockets are off a divisional game. Utah is a long-term 34-18 to the over in games played against Southwest Division opponents. Look for another "Southwest Shootout" in this match-up tonight! 10* OVER the total in Houston |
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12-15-18 | Bulls v. Spurs OVER 211.5 | Top | 98-93 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 20 m | Show |
Hardwood Hammer - Rickenbach NBA Game #509 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in San Antonio Spurs vs Chicago Bulls @ 8:35 ET - I suffered a very frustrating loss with the Spurs "over" on Thursday. San Antonio was up 66-57 at the half against the Clippers so it was on pace for 246 points. Inexplicably, the Clippers were so inaccurate with second half shooting they "couldn't even throw the ball in the ocean" as they saying goes. LA scored 30 points in the ENTIRE second half after scoring nearly that in EACH of the first two quarters. Anyway, that is leading to come key total value here as the total between the Bulls and Spurs was higher when these teams just recently met in Chicago. The fact is that San Antonio has been playing some solid defense but they also have been red hot with their shooting on offense. That said, after a string of solid performances on D against Western Conference foes, don't be surprised if SA is a bit lack-luster on the defensive end as the 6-23 Bulls come to town. As for Chicago, they are off a game in Mexico City which was a grinder with tough shooting in an unfamiliar setting. The Bulls will be happy to get back to a regular venue and should thrive tonight with a strong game offensively. Chicago scored 107 points versus the Spurs in their match-up about 3 weeks ago. San Antonio enters this game having averaged 118 points per game in their last 7 games. Also, SA is still 10-4 to the over their last 14 games despite that ridiculous "under" result on Thursday. The over is 3-1 this season in Spurs games against Central Division opponents. 10* OVER the total in San Antonio |
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12-13-18 | Clippers v. Spurs OVER 222 | Top | 87-125 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 56 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #561 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in San Antonio Spurs vs Los Angeles Clippers @ 8:35 ET - The Spurs have had back to back unders in their last two games but the over was 10-1 in their 11 prior games. Also, the over is a perfect 4-0 in San Antonio's last 4 games versus Los Angeles. The Clippers are on a 12-3-1 run to the over in their last 16 games. The Spurs are 9-2 to the over in their games against teams with a winning record this season. The Clips are 39-18 to the over (including 11-2 this season) when off a game in which they allowed 115 points or more. Look for the defensive struggles of LA to continue in this one but also note that Los Angeles has averaged 114.5 points per game in their last two games versus the Spurs. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in San Antonio |
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12-11-18 | Blazers v. Rockets OVER 219.5 | Top | 103-111 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 10 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #531 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Houston Rockets vs Portland Trail Blazers @ 8:05 ET - Each of these teams enter this game having stayed under the total in 3 straight games. However, it is a statistical anomaly that won't continue here. That's because the Blazers are actually hitting 49% from the field their last 5 games and the Rockets are now back home where they've gone over the total in 4 straight games. Houston has shot 52% from the field in those 4 games. The over is 5-1 in Portland's last 6 road games. The over is 6-2 when the Rockets enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. Also, when Houston is off an upset loss as a favorite, the over is 6-3 this season and the Rockets are 4-0 to the over when off a divisional game this season. Portland is 3-1 to the over this season when playing with 2 days of rest between games. Both teams have fresh legs here and the shots will be scorching the nets in this one! 10* OVER the total in Houston |
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12-09-18 | Bucks v. Raptors OVER 230 | Top | 104-99 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 36 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 6:05 ET - Yes this is a big game so you would expect some extra defensive intensity but, truth be told, neither one of these teams is where they are today because of defense. The Raptors and Bucks are two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference because of their scoring prowess. Of course this is a big revenge game for Toronto after losing at Milwaukee earlier this season. That is certainly noteworthy as the Raptors are a perfect 6-0 to the over this season when playing with revenge. As for the Bucks, they are a perfect 4-0 to the over this season in games in which they are an underdog. Additionally, the over is a perfect 5-0 this season in Milwaukee's games against Atlantic Division opponents. Last but not least, the over is a perfect 4-0 in the last 4 meetings between these teams. That means we have combined angles of 19-0 / 100% PERFECT in this one in support of a high-scoring blockbuster. I'll take it! 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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12-08-18 | Nuggets v. Hawks OVER 222.5 | Top | 98-106 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 45 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #705 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Hawks vs Denver Nuggets @ 7:35 ET - The Nuggets are off a loss last night that snapped a 7-game winning streak. Even though Denver shot very poorly in the game it still went over the total. In other words, that tells you the type of quick pace they're playing. Yes, I am aware there are some injury situations for each team heading into this game but, the point is, I do not expect the Nuggets to take their foot off the games in this one. That said, Denver did score 138 points when they hosted the Hawks last month. As for Atlanta, the over is 7-2 in their last 9 games. Also, the Hawks are 6-2 to the over when off a game in which they allowed 130 points or more. Atlanta is 8-4 to the over in home games this season. The over is 25-12 when the Nuggets are on the road and the posted total on their game is 220 points or more. Look for another one to fly over the total here as Denver will be ready to push the pace from the opening tip after what happened last night at Charlotte. 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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12-06-18 | Knicks v. Celtics OVER 217.5 | Top | 100-128 | Win | 100 | 12 h 9 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks @ 8:05 ET - This is a revenge game for the Celtics. That means they are NOT going to try and grind out a win against a Knicks team they know they can dominate. Look for this one to be played at a very fast pace as a result as Boston will NOT take their foot off the gas in this one. The Celtics have fresh legs as they've been off since Saturday. Boston seeks payback here for that 117-109 loss to the Knicks two weeks ago. In that game the Celtics had 97 shots from the field but simply had an "off" shooting night. That won't happen again here! New York has allowed 119 points per game their last 4 games. The over is 6-2 in the Knicks last 8 road games. The over is 6-1 in the last 7 Celtics games overall. In Boston's last 6 games they had one horrible scoring effort (versus Utah) but have averaged 117.6 points per game in the other 5 games. The over is 4-1 when Boston is a home favorite of 12.5 points or more. The over is 21-9 when the Celtics enter a game on a streak of 3 or more consecutive games going over the total. In other words, don't be surprised when we see another one here. The over is 8-4 in Knicks games against teams with a winning record. More of the same in this one. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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12-01-18 | Bucks v. Knicks OVER 230.5 | Top | 134-136 | Win | 100 | 7 h 15 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 5:05 ET - The Bucks are averaging 120.8 points per game this season. However, their defense has been sub-par over the past week and they certainly are unlikely to be overly "amped up" about facing a 7-16 Knicks team. In other words, this one is likely to be played at a fast pace with plenty of open floor for New York to "run and gun". Milwaukee has allowed 48.9% shooting and 117 points per game in its last 4 contests. The over is a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between the Bucks and Knicks. Milwaukee is also 4-0 to the over in games against Atlantic Division opponents this season. Saturday games for the Bucks are a long-term 24-9 to the over and December games are 22-7 to the over the past two seasons. The Knicks most recent game stayed under the total but they entered that contest having gone 6-2 to the over in their prior 8 games. New York is also an incredible 17-6 to the over in Saturday games and 15-6 to the over when they enter a game having played each of their three prior games on the road. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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11-26-18 | Wolves v. Cavs OVER 215 | Top | 102-95 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 36 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs Minnesota Timberwolves @ 7:05 ET - The over is a perfect 7-0 in the last 7 meetings between these teams and that includes a perfect 4-0 in meetings in Cleveland. Both these teams have trended under this month and that has resulted in this total being set lower than it should be. The Cavaliers have averaged 119 points per game their last two games. However, the Cavaliers have also given up an average of 112 points per game their last five games. The Timberwolves have played at a fast pace in recent games and also Minnesota has averaged 93 field goal attempts per game their last 7 road games. The Cavaliers have averaged 95 field goal attempts per game their last 3 games. Look for a good pace to this game and plenty of points as the long term high-scoring trend in this series continues. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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11-23-18 | Magic v. Nuggets OVER 214 | Top | 87-112 | Loss | -115 | 14 h 39 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #523 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Denver Nuggets vs Orlando Magic @ 9:05 ET - The Magic are off a low-scoring loss at Toronto Tuesday as they had a horrific shooting night. Orlando entered that game red hot from the floor in their 6 prior games and scoring an average of 119 points per game during that stretch. That said, the low-scoring loss was surprising and I expect the Magic to get right back on track here (offensively) in this one. The Nuggets may have trouble staying fully focused here as they are off a win at Minnesota and have a game at Oklahoma City on deck. That said, this is a "sandwich game" against an Eastern Conference foe so it is unlikely to bring out the best in terms of defensive intensity. In fact 3 of the 4 meetings between these teams have gone over the total (including 2 for 2 at Denver). The over is 17-7 when the Nuggets enter a game having played each of their three prior games on the road. The over is 20-11 when Denver is off a divisional game. Also, the over is 51-26 when the Nuggets face a team that is scoring an average of 106 points or more per game. 10* OVER the total in Denver |
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11-09-18 | Hornets v. 76ers OVER 225 | Top | 132-133 | Win | 100 | 9 h 41 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - The last time these two teams met the game stayed well under the total but the pacing of the game should have sent it flying over the total. The problem, for over players, in that game was that both teams shot under 40% from the field. Even with that the game totaled 208 points and I feel the situation here is conducive to an over. The set up here is ideal for plenty of points. The 76ers, after a very sloppy game against Brooklyn, cleaned up their game and also played solid defense in a win at Indiana Wednesday. Now I would not be surprised to see them somewhat complacent here after finally notching their first road win of the season. As for the Hornets, they roll into this game off back to back wins. While it is true that the competition certainly was not fierce. It is also true that Charlotte has been able to build up confidence by getting those two victories. Taking a look at the Hornets last 6 games, the one poor shooting effort was against Philly but Charlotte has shot 49.2% from the field in the other 5 games combined. As for the Sixers, they are averaging 115 points per game at home this season. Look for the over to improve to 5-2 in Philly's games versus teams with a winning record this season. As for the Hornets, the over is 3-1 this season in their games as an underdog. The lone under was the aforementioned 105-103 loss at Philly. Charlotte and the Sixers make up for that here with a high-scoring shootout! 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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11-05-18 | Rockets v. Pacers OVER 213 | Top | 98-94 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 22 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets @ 7:05 ET - The Rockets now have James Harden back and, after shaking off some rust in his first game back, he'll be ready to go strong tonight. Keep in mind that was a crazy low-scoring result at Chicago in Houston's most recent game and it is helping to give us line value here. The fact is that the game was on pace for 220 points at half but then the Bulls scored just 7 points in the 3rd quarter. Some credit is due to the Rockets defense but it was also a lot of horrific shooting from Chicago that led to that result. The rest of the game the Bulls scored at least 25 points in each of the other 3 quarters. We all know what this Houston offense is capable of and I expect them to start clicking tonight as the Pacers D may not be at its strongest in a non-conference affair like this. Additionally, we all know Indiana can light up the scoreboard - particularly when at home - and the result of the above is that we should see a shootout between these non-conference foes Monday. The Rockets first 3 road games had all totaled at least 227 points. That "ugly" win at Chicago was Houston's 1st under in 4 road games this season. As for the Pacers, they are averaging 109.5 points per game at home this season and are knocking down 42.6% of their threes when at home! The Rockets have scored 118 points in each of their last two games versus the Pacers. Look for more of the same here as I expect, per all of the above, that each team gets to the 110 range in this one! 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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11-01-18 | Nuggets v. Cavs OVER 222 | Top | 110-91 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 2 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #505 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets @ 7:05 ET - Yes, the Nuggets are in a back to back and off an OT game. Yes, the Cavaliers have a new head coach so "focus" could change for the team. However, lets address those two factors because this total has dropped significantly early this morning and this has led to strong line value on the over. First off, the Cavs first game with Larry Drew instead of Tyronn Lue calling the shots resulted in a win and Cleveland's defense did create turnovers. However, the Cavaliers still allowed their opponent (the Hawks) to make a high percentage of their shots. In other words perhaps the aggressive defense did result in transition points for the Cavs but it also resulted in more open looks for the opponents shooters when they did get past the over-aggressive defenders. The fact is that the Cavaliers game with Atlanta still totaled 250 points and I feel this game with Denver is going to be a shootout as well. The Nuggets defense could be lacking here after putting a ton of effort into the win over the Bulls last night. Also, note that Denver is 14-7 to the over in games against Central Division opponents in recent seasons. Also, over this same time frame, the Nuggets are 46-23 to the over BOTH against teams that allow 106 points or more per game and also teams that score 106 points or more per game. Of course the Cavs fall into both of those categories this season. Additionally, the Cavaliers are on an 11-2 run to the over when off a game where they scored 130 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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10-31-18 | Pacers v. Knicks OVER 210.5 | Top | 107-101 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 31 m | Show |
Grim Reaper ESPN Smash - Rickenbach NBA Game #705 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Indiana Pacers @ 8:05 ET - The Pacers are off a rare poor shooting game and will bounce back strong here. Even though Indiana is on the road for this one, the Pacers actually have averaged 117.5 points per game in their last two road games. On the season Indiana is hitting 50% from the field overall and 43% from three point land. They'll take advantage of a Knicks team that is allowing 110.7 points per game this season on 47% shooting from the field including 38% from beyond the arc. Although New York's defense leaves a lot to be desired, the Knicks are averaged 110.5 points per game at home this season. I feel we're getting great line value here considering both teams are off a day of rest, the Pacers should be burning up the nets tonight with hot shooting, and New York score very well at home. All these factors combined with a total in the 210 range means excellent line value here! The Pacers are 3-0 to the over this season when off a non-conference game. The Knicks are 2-0 to the over this season in games against teams with a winning record. Indiana is 3-0 to the over in Eastern Conference match-ups this season. The over is 2-0 in the last two meetings between these teams. That means we have combined edges here of 10-0 / 100% PERFECT supporting this selection! Look for a shootout in this one. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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10-29-18 | Raptors v. Bucks OVER 222 | Top | 109-124 | Win | 100 | 10 h 39 m | Show |
NBA Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #709 Tuesday NBA 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - Yes, I am aware of the head injury suffered by Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks but he is NOT in the concussion protocol and I just do not see him missing a huge game like this. The last two undefeated teams in the league are meeting in Milwaukee tonight in what should be a fantastic game with plenty of points scored! The over went 3-0 in meetings between these teams last season. Also, after I got burned on the Raptors over in their most recent game (only went over the closing number but should have finished with 240 points) I have had my eyes on this match-up. Each team, compared to the opening number at least, has stayed under in each of its last two games. However, the pacing of the game has been conducive to an over for each of those games and also each of these teams started the season with 4 straight overs. The first total that popped up on this game was 223 but it has dropped to 221.5 since then and there is huge value here with the over in my opinion. The Bucks have allowed an average of 101 shots per game their last 4 games! The Raptors have allowed an average of 95 shots per game their last 3 games! On the other end of the floor, of course, both teams can fill it up! The Bucks are averaging 119.3 points per game this season and Toronto is averaging 116.8 points per game this season. The over is a long-term 37-25 when the Raptors are off a game where they scored 115 points or more. Also, the over is 20-10 in Toronto's games when they have two days of rest between games. The over is a long-term 47-25 in Bucks games played in the first half of a season. This should be a VERY entertaining shootout tonight! 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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10-26-18 | Mavs v. Raptors OVER 225.5 | Top | 107-116 | Loss | -103 | 11 h 20 m | Show |
NBA Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #505 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Dallas Mavericks @ 7:35 ET - The Raptors are undefeated on the season. The Mavericks are coming off a game where they let a 26 point lead slip away. Toronto can score on anybody but has also allowed triple digits in all five of their games this season. Dallas is allowing an insane 50% from three point land this season and the Raptors are allowing just a shade under 40% from beyond the arc this season. The point is that there should be plenty of points in this one. The Mavericks got burned for taking the foot off the gas in their most recent game while the Raptors are averaging 117 points per game this season and have to be licking their chops at attacking the struggling Mavs defense. Dallas is allowing 119.2 points per game this season. Both teams play at a quick pace with the Mavericks averaging 92.5 field goal attempts per game and the Raptors not far behind at around 90. Couple those stats with the fact that both teams have had trouble defending the 3-point line this season as well as the fact that this total, as of early this morning, has dropped big from its opener, and you have a great situation here in terms of value. Toronto's most recent game stayed under the total but, prior to that, the over was 4-0 in Raptors games this season. The over is 5-2 in Mavs games with a posted total of 220 points or more. The over is 9-5 in Raptors home games with a posted total of 220 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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10-22-18 | Magic v. Celtics OVER 210.5 | Top | 93-90 | Loss | -105 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - This total is dropping early this morning which is understandable given the fact that each of these teams has trended early this season as well as the fact that the Celtics are known for defense. However, the drop on the total is also a key to additional value here because I just don't foresee Boston giving a real huge effort on the defensive end in this game. It is a non-divisional match-up against a bad team. These types of match-ups, as a general rule, don't tend to bring out the best in terms of intensity on defense. Also, the Magic have added confidence from scoring 115 points and shooting lights out in a 1 point loss at Philly Saturday. Boston is off a tight win Saturday over the Knicks and this will now be the 3rd game in 4 nights for each of these teams. That also can mean some tired legs on defense. The over is 3-1 in the last 4 meetings between these teams in Boston. The Magic have scored at least 103 points in 2 of their last 3 meetings with the Celtics and at least 104 points in 2 of their 3 games this season. Orlando should ride momentum from the hot shooting at Philly but their defense is poor. That said, look for the Magic to get to the 105 range in this game but they are forecast to lose by double digits for a reason and this one should fly well over the total as the Celtics enjoy a breakout game on offense against a sub-par defense. The over is 22-15 in Orlando's games against Atlantic Division opponents and the over is 26-17 in the Celtics games against Southeast Division opponents. Look for another one here! 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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10-17-18 | Bucks v. Hornets OVER 217 | Top | 113-112 | Win | 100 | 10 h 27 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #703 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 7:05 ET - Interesting match-up here with each team having a new head coach. I expect this to lead to plenty of points here as a pair of former Spurs assistant coaches square off. It is Mike Budenholzer for the Bucks and James Borrego for the Hornets. Milwaukee is going to be emphasizing the 3-point shot this season and they've added some key pieces relating to that and I expect to see plenty of threes fired up by Milwaukee tonight. However, the Bucks also can attack the paint as Charlotte no longer has Dwight Howard in the middle and the Hornets are definitely going toward more of a small ball lineup. It all equates to plenty of points here in the season opener as we should see a good tempo in this one. The over is a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between these teams and also a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times they've met in Charlotte. Additionally, in games played in the first half of a season, Milwaukee has gone 43-23 to the over their last 66. Look for that trend to add another one on the high side Wednesday. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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06-03-18 | Cavs v. Warriors OVER 214 | Top | 103-122 | Win | 100 | 23 h 57 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:05 ET - The extra rest here will serve both teams well. Not only did they have some time off between the conference finals and these NBA Finals, they now also have 2 full off days between Game 1 and Game 2 of the NBA Finals. Also, after this, the teams will have 2 more full off days before Game 3 as the series then shifts east. The point is that the players are rested and they know they have more rest coming. As a result, there will be no holding back on Sunday evening and I expect plenty of big scoring runs. The Cavaliers are 39-18 to the over when off of a game where they allowed 115 points or more and that includes 17-8 this season. Now, of course, I know Game 1 included OT but, keep in mind, it went over the total before overtime. Also, it is hard to be impressed with the Cavaliers defense when one considers that the Warriors did hit over 50% from the field for the game, scored 17 points in OT (just 5 minutes), and scored at least 27 points in 3 of the 4 quarters in the game. Of course LeBron James is going to get his points and the Warriors showed in Game 1 they're not going to stop him. In fact, the Cavs scored at least 26 points in 3 of the 4 quarters. The point is that if a "normal" quarter is at least 27-26 (53 points) you can see why I like the over in this match-up. Adding to the value is that neither team shot as well as they normally do from three point land in Game 1. Look for better outside shooting in Game 2 and the Cavaliers will once again be very determined after falling just short in Game 1. That said, I expect this game to still be close enough late to encourage late fouls and plenty of "scramble points" at the end should we need them. Look for the over to improve to 6-2 in the last 8 meetings between these teams. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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05-24-18 | Warriors v. Rockets OVER 218.5 | Top | 94-98 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 24 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors @ 9:05 ET - Tuesday's game saw the total close at 227.5 in a number of shops with some even as high as a 228. Of course after the dismal shooting effort in Game 4, the markets have had to adjust but a double digit adjustment is something not normally seen. In other words, it is not the odds makers doing this as much as it is the markets. The odds makers opened up Tuesday's total at 224 and this Game 5 total at 220. That is a difference of only 4 points. But the markets hammered the over in Game 4 and got crushed and now they're hammering the under in Game 5 and I suspect they will get crushed again. This morning's total (as low as 218.5) is nearly 10 points below where we were before tip-off in Game 4. The value is too much to ignore because you know that two fantastic shooting teams are going to find their rhythm again after each of them was held below 40% from the field in Tuesday's game. This season there were only 3 times that the Warriors were on the road following a game in which they were held below 100 points. The average point total of the next game in those 3 occurrences was 232 points! Also, when on the road this season following a game in which they allowed less than 100 points, Golden State went 8-2 to the over on the season! There has only been 1 under in the Rockets last 6 home games and that was Game 3 of this series which totaled 225 points. In other words, given the low number on tonight's total that also would have resulted in an over. The Rockets are averaging 114.2 points per game in their last 6 home games and the Warriors should match them bucket for bucket as you can tell by the spread on this game being a pick'em. In my opinion the best value (and it is strong value) is the over in this match-up. 10* OVER the total in Houston |
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05-22-18 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 224 | Top | 95-92 | Loss | -107 | 12 h 20 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #505 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets @ 9:05 ET - The Warriors Andre Iguodala is listed as doubtful for this game. He is a starter and he is important come playoff time because he is a very solid player on the defensive end. That said, this should help lead to a high-scoring match-up in Game 4. You know the Rockets are going to bounce back after scoring just 85 points in Game 3. However, the Warriors offensive production is unlikely to be slowed down on their home floor where they have averaged 121 points per game their last 4 games. The over is 9-2 in Houston's Tuesday games this season and the Rockets are a long-term 5-2 to the over after they were held to 85 points or less in their prior game. Golden State is 22-13 to the over when leading in a playoff series. Also, the Warriors are a long-term 13-4 to the over when they are off of a game where they allowed 85 points or less. Factor all this in with the banged up knee plaguing Iguodala and you have the right "recipe" for an absolute shootout in this one. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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05-21-18 | Celtics v. Cavs OVER 206.5 | Top | 102-111 | Win | 100 | 13 h 7 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #705 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics @ 8:35 ET - Celtics games have now recorded 3 straight unders. The over is 5-1 this season when Boston enters a game on an "under streak" of 3 or more games. Celtics coach Brad Stevens, one of the best in the business, is making some adjustments here and I expect it to result in a lot more offense. Boston scored just 86 points and got blasted in Game 3 as they lost by a margin of 30 points. The over is 8-3 this season when the Celtics are off of a game they lost by a double digit margin. The over is a long-term 17-11 when the Cavaliers enter a game on an "under streak" of 3 or more games. The total on this game is currently 206.5 as of early morning on game day. The last 13 times that Cleveland has been off of a win by a double digit margin, their next game has totaled 207 points or more 11 of 13 times! In other words, look for the Cavs offense to stay red hot here (particularly since they are at home but also look for Stevens to make some adjustments to get his teams offensive production right back up where it should be. Keep in mind the Cavaliers had allowed an average of 107 points per game before Saturday's blowout win and, on the season, the Cavs allowed 109 points per game. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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05-20-18 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 226 | Top | 85-126 | Loss | -105 | 20 h 12 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - You know the Warriors will be out for blood here after a 22 point loss in Game 2 on Wednesday. However, look for Golden State to respond with offense, not defense. The fact is that the Warriors over should go to 6-3 the last 9 times they've played a game with 3 or more days of rest between games. Fresh legs for Golden State coupled with being on their home floor coupled with being off of a blowout loss all equates to a run and gun affair here. You know the Rockets will play with plenty of confidence after knocking off the Warriors by 22 points at home. That is going to lead to a shootout here. Houston has averaged 113 points per game in their last 9 games. The Warriors have averaged 119 points per game in their last 3 home games. Golden State's most recent home game stayed under the total but the Warriors entered that game with a record of 7-1 to the over in their 8 prior home games. The Rockets are 7-3 to the over in their past 10 games. Game 3 went over the total despite the Warriors shooting only 30% from three point land and you know another performance like that is highly unlikely. That said, this one should easily crush the posted O/U Sunday. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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05-15-18 | Cavs v. Celtics OVER 202.5 | Top | 94-107 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 34 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:35 ET - You know that LeBron James and Company are going to respond here but they have had issues on defense all season long and are one of the worst teams in the league when it comes to their defensive efficiency rating. With that said, look for this one to surprise many and be a shootout. The Cavaliers are 11-5 to the over in Tuesday games game this season. Cleveland is also 24-14 to the over when playing with revenge. After a loss by a double digit margin, the Cavs are 32-19 to the over. The Celtics are 18-10 to the over this season when off of a win by a double digit margin. That is because it is hard to keep up defensive intensity when a team is off of an easy blowout win. Also, the over is 19-10 Boston's last 29 versus teams that allow 106 points or more per game. Also, versus teams that average 106 points or more, the Celtics are on a 24-12 run to the over. Before game 1 stayed under the total, Cleveland was on a 5-1 run to the over their prior 6 games and had been shooting the ball very well. Also, prior to that Game 1 under, the Celtics had gone 10-1 to the over in their last 11 home games. After a rare OFF night for the Cavaliers in the offensive end, look for things to return to "normal" Tuesday in Game Two. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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05-08-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors OVER 227 | Top | 104-113 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 57 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs New Orleans Pelicans @ 10:35 ET - New Orleans was held to just 92 points Sunday as they endured a horrific shooting performance versus the Warriors. The Pelicans are 12-5 to the over the last 17 times they've been held to 102 points or less. Also, the Game 4 loss was just the 4th time this season that New Orleans has been held to 39.5% or less from the field. The game after each of the first 3 occurrences went over the total all 3 times! Look for the record in this situation to improve to a perfect 4-0 this season. However, the issue for the Pelicans is the fact that they won't be able to stop the Warriors potent attack. Golden State is at home and wants to close this out tonight and avoid a trip back to New Orleans. As a result, look for the Warriors to push the pace here as they attempt to push the Pelicans right out of the post-season! The over is 7-1 in Golden State's last 8 home games. Also, after a loss by 10 points or more New Orleans is 12-5 to the over this season plus the over is 27-14 in Pelicans games in which they are playing with revenge. The over is 21-12 when the Warriors are leading in a playoff series and they'll keep their foot on the gas for all 48 minutes of this one at home. 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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05-06-18 | Rockets v. Jazz OVER 209 | Top | 100-87 | Loss | -103 | 12 h 12 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #707 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Utah Jazz vs Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - The Jazz were held to just 92 points on their home floor in the Game 3 loss. Utah is a perfect 6-0 to the over they last 6 times they were off of a game where they scored 96 points or less. The Jazz should respond here and they might even get an extra boost with the return of guard Ricky Rubio. When trailing in a playoff series, Utah has gone 4-2 to the over. Also, the over is a perfect 9-0 in Sunday games for the Jazz this season! Houston is 4-1 to the over in this post-season when they are leading in a playoff series. The Rockets started slow in this post-season but they've now averaged 114.4 points per game their last 5 games. Houston is a 5-point favorite in this match-up. If the game hits right near the line and the Rockets hit their recent scoring average, you're talking about a 114-109 type game. That covers this total by double digits and that is exactly what I am looking for here. Houston likely to shoot even better from three point land as the Rockets rarely have 3 straight sub-par games from beyond the arc. The Jazz fight back hard in hopes of evening this series up. The result is plenty of points in this one. 10* OVER the total in Utah |
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04-30-18 | 76ers v. Celtics OVER 207.5 | Top | 101-117 | Win | 100 | 12 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #555 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers @ 8:05 ET - Sixers head coach Brett Brown spent many years on the Spurs coaching staff and learned plenty from San Antonio head coach Gregg Popovich. That said, Brown knows exactly what to do in this spot. He has a very talented Philadelphia team that can put up a ton of points in a hurry and they are well-rested with fresh legs here as they have not played since Monday! Brown knows he is catching a weary Celtics team that just finished battling a 7-game series with the Bucks that wrapped up on Saturday. The 76ers will be playing just their 3rd game in 10 days while Boston will be playing their 6th game in 11 days! You can plainly see which team is going to be fresher here and coach Brown is smart enough to have his team "run and gun" here. That could stake Philly to an early lead which helps take the crowd out of it but it also will allow the fresh legs of the 76ers to wear down a Celtics team coming off of that grueling battle with the Bucks. The Boston over is 11-3 their last 14 games. Also, the Celtics are 21-9 to the over their last 30 games when they face a team that averages 106 points or more per game. Look for the Philadelphia over to go to 4-1 this season when they are playing with 3 or more days of rest between games. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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04-27-18 | Cavs v. Pacers OVER 204 | Top | 87-121 | Win | 100 | 15 h 22 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #511 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:05 ET - With all the games in this series staying under the closing number, the downward trend on the posted totals in these games has continued. With tonight's game also being a possible elimination game for the Pacers, we are being given additional line value with the low posted total on this one. I expect Indiana to come out with a ton of energy and to also sustain it. The Pacers have lost 3 of the last 4 games in this series so clearly the grinder style of games is not suiting them. They need to take advantage of getting quick points in transition and push the tempo a little bit and try to change things up here in Game 6. Indiana has shot better on the road than at home in this series and, of course, that is the inverse of what you would expect. Don't look for that trend to continue here. Look for a shootout tonight with plenty of threes as well as quick points in transition. The Cavaliers wrapped up the regular season with an O/U mark of 6-3 in road games and Game 4 of this series in Indiana did go over the total for all but later bettors (closed at 206). As for the Pacers, they averaged 106.4 points per game at home this season and I have a strong feeling about what is coming tonight in terms of tempo and that should lead to an easy over in this one. 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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04-25-18 | Wolves v. Rockets OVER 215.5 | Top | 104-122 | Win | 100 | 13 h 17 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #713 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves @ 9:35 ET - The very first number that popped up on this total was a 219. The markets have pounced on it and have pounded it down to as low as a 215.5 as of early game day morning. I'll gladly grab the additional line value here. The Wolves are down 3-1 in this series so they have no option but to pull off a huge upset here if they want to stay alive in this post-season. That said, there is great value with the over here because the Rockets are going to push the pace and look to close out big at home. The first two games in this series were played in Houston and both stayed under the total. However, the Rockets shot uncharacteristically poor from 3-point land in those two games. They've gotten hotter since then as they've shot better from beyond the arc in the last two games, both played in Minnesota. That said, I look for them to be even hotter still in Game 5 as they're back on their home floor and have found their shooting stroke again. The Timberwolves have hit 40% of their threes in this series and I look for this one to turn into a run and gun affair. We're simply getting value here because the first two games in Houston stayed under the total. Given this elimination setting and the Rockets game plan to run the Wolves out of the playoffs by running them right of the arena, this will be a shootout tonight. Look for the over to improve to 6-3 when the Rockets are leading in a playoff series. Minnesota is 9-4 to the over when they are off of a loss by double digits. 10* OVER the total in Houston |
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04-24-18 | Heat v. 76ers OVER 211 | Top | 91-104 | Loss | -103 | 22 h 59 m | Show |
Rickenbach NBA Game #703 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs Miami Heat @ 8:05 ET - The Game 4 win for the Sixers was the 3rd time in 4 games in this series that one of the teams attempted at least 94 shots from the field. However, the game did stay under but the point is that we're getting line value here with this total as a result. The way the pacing has gone in this series 3 of the 4 should have gone over but instead it is a 2-2 split. With Miami having their backs against the wall, down 3-1 in this series, I look for them to be especially aggressive on the offensive end in this one. They know the Sixers are going to "get theirs" in terms of points but the Heat have scored at least 102 in each game in this series and have, in fact, averaged 106.5 points per game. Considering the spread on this game is double digits and yet Miami should end up in the 102 to 107 range in points, this total is definitely a little low as you can see! In terms of technical support, the over is 10-4 in Miami's last 14 road games and 10-5 in 76ers games this season when they are playing with 2 days of rest between games. Fresh legs and plenty of run and gun as the Sixers want to end this at home while the Heat will be firing away to try to stay alive and send it back to Miami. 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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04-22-18 | Cavs v. Pacers OVER 203.5 | Top | 104-100 | Win | 100 | 11 h 57 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:35 ET - With a drop down to a 203.5 this morning, this total is now down double digits from where it was earlier in this series. This is a classic case of the books having to over-react due to market perception forcing an over-correction. Yes all 3 games of this series have stayed under the total but let us not get carried away here! The Celtics scored 57 in the first half of Friday's game. The Pacers scored 52 points in the 2nd half of that Game 3 match-up. The Cavs also scored 58 in the first half of Game 2 while the Pacers scored 51 points in the 2nd half of that match-up. The key here is Cleveland is now desperate for a win as they are on the road and down 2 games to 1 and the Cavaliers best success in this series has come when they're pushing the pace. The Cavs have led by double digits at halftime in each of the past two games. Today I look for Cleveland to push hard for a full 48 minutes. While I do respect the Pacers defense this is still an Indiana team that allowed 104 points per game this season. Of course the Cavaliers struggles defensively were well-documented this season and they've allowed nearly 110 points per game on the season. There is simply exceptional value with the drop in this total because you know with the importance of this game, big difference between a 3-1 series and a 2-2, neither team is going to lie down late no matter the score. So a good tempo here with late fouling and big threes also a distinct possibility to add points. 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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04-21-18 | Rockets v. Wolves OVER 214 | Top | 105-121 | Win | 100 | 10 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #721 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Timberwolves vs Houston Rockets @ 7:35 ET - Ladies and gentlemen, this total opened up at a 213 and is now as high as a 214.5 despite the fact that both games in this series have easily stayed under the total AND the Rockets are on an 11-2 run to the under. So what does that tell you? Some sharp money is on the over here folks. This is a contrarian play. Most will be enticed to the under but the over is the way to go. Yes, the Timberwolves are on a 5-1 run to the under also but, after struggling with their shot at Houston, look for them to shoot much better at home in Minnesota. Also, the Rockets are making just 29% of their three pointers so far in this series but that is not going to continue. Houston is too strong of a shooting team and they will hit their stride again. The Rockets actually hit 38 of 82 (46.3%) of their three pointers in their two games at Minnesota in the regular season and they'll get it rolling again tonight. The Wolves have averaged 114 points per game in their last 4 home games versus the Rockets and the over is a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings there. The Timberwolves are 8-4 to the over this season when off of a loss by a double digit margin. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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04-20-18 | Raptors v. Wizards OVER 218 | Top | 103-122 | Win | 102 | 10 h 48 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #713 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - There really is no reason to expect the high-scoring ways of this series to come to a stop just yet. The Wizards average nearly 4 points more at home compared to on the road while the Raptors average under 2 points less on the road compared to at home. Also, the Toronto defense does allow about 4 points more when on the road this season while the Washington defense shows an average only about 2 points better when at home compared to on the road. The Wizards simply are not known as a team that wins with defense. In fact, in their last 15 home wins they've allowed an average of 105.4 points per game. Again, they win with offense and this is a desperate Washington team in search of a win to get back into this series but they simply can not stop the Raptors. Toronto has scored an average of 116.3 points per game in their last 4 games versus the Wizards. The Raptors have shot the ball very well overall in their last 5 games and have averaged 114.6 points per game during this stretch. The Wizards are 6-2 to the over in their last 8 games. Toronto is a long-term 23-16 when playing with 2 days of rest between games. The Raptors also are 9-5 to the over this season when they are an underdog. Washington is 27-16 to the over when playing with 2 days of rest between games. Also, only 4 of 12 games have stayed under when the Wizards are off of a loss by a double digit margin. In other words, the Wizards respond to ugly defeats with offense not defense and that is what I expect to see again on Friday. 10* OVER the total in Washington |
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04-19-18 | Blazers v. Pelicans OVER 216 | Top | 102-119 | Win | 100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #525 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New Orleans Pelicans vs Portland Trail Blazers @ 9:05 ET - During the regular season an average game for the Blazers or the Pelicans sees about 42 free throw attempts. However, in the last 3 meetings between these teams, including the first two of this post-season, the teams have averaged a total of only 25 free throw attempts. This certainly has had an impact on each of those 3 meetings staying under the total and I look for it to change tonight. Down 0-2 in the series and having lost both games on their home floor, Portland needs to come out very aggressive and attack the basket. This leads to more trips to the free throw line. The fact is that the Blazers have averaged 98 field goal attempts in their last 3 games against the Pelicans so the pacing has certainly been there for an over. Tonight we'll finally see the pace correlate properly to a higher scoring game. New Orleans has shot the ball very well their last 7 games and that is why they've scored 111 points or more in 6 of those 7 games. Look for the Pelicans to stay hot here but the desperate Blazers will answer them bucket for bucket as this game goes on. The over is a long-term 81-42 in Pelicans home games and that includes 28-13 this season! More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in New Orleans |
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04-11-18 | Nuggets v. Wolves OVER 213 | Top | 106-112 | Win | 100 | 24 h 39 m | Show |
Total of the Year - Rickenbach NBA Game #707 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Timberwolves vs Denver Nuggets @ 8:05 ET - The winner of this game goes to the post-season. The loser is out. As a result of those high stakes as well as Denver's ultra low scoring win over Portland Monday, there has been a dramatic over-reaction with this total. The very first O/U that popped up on this one was a 220. Now, as of Tuesday evening, the total is all the way down to a 213. This is offering incredible line value for the over. Keep in mind, the loser is out. There is no tomorrow for this season. That said, I look at this game from a different viewpoint. Late game big scoring pushes are going to be huge. There will be fouling for the team that is trailing. They will be jacking up threes. Even if still down 10 with a minute to go there is likely to still be fouling (hence free throws) and then corresponding quick threes jacked up. Again, because there is no tomorrow. With all that said, I like the fact that both of these teams are plenty capable of going on quick scoring runs and I expect this game to have plenty of dramatics throughout. The Nuggets are averaging 110 points per game this season and the Timberwolves are averaging 111.4 points per game at home this season. Both teams allow at least 107.3 points per game as their season average. The Nuggets have hit 37% of their threes this season. Minnesota hit 36% of their threes at home this season but also allowed 36.6% three-pointers! You can see why there are likely to be some big shots and big scoring runs in this one. The over is 26-14 this season in Denver's games versus teams with a winning record. The over is 16-7 in the Timberwolves last 23 games versus teams with a winning record. Sure there will be intensity in this game but guys will be knocking down threes too and also looking to get quick points in transition rather than let their opponent get set on defense first. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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04-05-18 | Warriors v. Pacers OVER 210.5 | Top | 106-126 | Win | 100 | 11 h 33 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Thursday 10* OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Golden State Warriors @ 7:05 ET - This total opened up at a 213.5 and is now down to a 210.5 as of early gameday morning. Of course everyone is looking at the match-up last week between these two teams in Golden State and the fact that it totaled only 173 points. Folks, it is never that easy. The fact is that the result from last week is merely serving to give us exceptional line value here and I won't hesitate to step in. The Pacers were on a 3-1 run to the over before their game at Denver stayed just under the total Tuesday. Also, Indiana has shot at least 48.1% in each of their last 5 games and that includes the loss to the Nuggets. As for the Warriors, they are starting to heat up again and have averaged 111.8 points per game their last four games. They have shot at least 49.4% from the field in all 4 of those games. Golden State is off of an upset win at Oklahoma City and the Warriors are 5-2 to the over the last 7 times they were off of an outright win as an underdog. The fact that both of these teams have been trending under of late has greatly impacted market perception right now. The fact is they both come into this game shooting the ball very well and this is a late season non-conference match-up that should see plenty of offensive fireworks. 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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04-04-18 | 76ers v. Pistons OVER 212.5 | Top | 115-108 | Win | 100 | 9 h 24 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers @ 7:05 ET - The 76ers and Pistons are two of the hottest teams in the league. However, both teams are also without key big men in the paint. This is going to allow both teams to attack the basket and, with the confidence of long winning streaks in tow, each team comes into this game with plenty of confidence on the offensive end. The 76ers have won 11 straight games and have averaged 116.8 points per game during this streak. The Pistons have won 5 straight games and 7 of their last 8 and they've averaged 109 points per game during this strong 8-game stretch. The point is that we could easily see this game reach the 226 range if these teams just play like the have been. With some missing pieces in the paint, I definitely expect this one to get into that range as the interior defense for each team has been weakened. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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04-03-18 | Pacers v. Nuggets OVER 214 | Top | 104-107 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 10 m | Show |
Situational Smash - Rickenbach NBA Game #719 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Denver Nuggets vs Indiana Pacers @ 9:05 ET - The over is 22-6 in the Nuggets last 28 games yet this total drifted down some this morning. Of course that is because the Pacers have a much different reputation than that of the Nuggets. However, with Denver being at home I do expect they will control the tempo and they'll force the Pacers to keep pace! Additionally, Indiana has shot at least 48% from the field in 4 straight games but has struggled at times on the defensive end. The Pacers have allowed 47.7% or more from the field in 4 of their last 5 games. The over is 3-1 in Indiana's last 4 games. Also, the last 7 times that the Pacers have entered a game on a winning streak of 3 or more games, they over has gone 5-2. Look for more of the same here as Denver is 7-2 to the over this season against Central Division opponents. Also, the Nuggets are 25-11 to the over in their games against teams with a winning record this season! 10* OVER the total in Denver |
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04-01-18 | Pacers v. Clippers OVER 215.5 | Top | 111-104 | Loss | -105 | 21 h 8 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Los Angeles Clippers vs Indiana Pacers @ 3:35 ET - When these teams met in Indiana a week ago, the Clippers shot 55% and yet they lost and the game stayed under the total. This is helping to give us solid line value with this total because the Pacers are off of another unique result too. Indiana is off of a win at Sacramento Thursday despite allowing 53.8% from the field. As you can see, the Pacers defense hasn't exactly been on point of late! The Clippers are on an under streak but there is a reason this total is as high as it is. It is more than just some "strange results" recently, it is also that the Clips are now back home where the over is 5-2 in their last 7 games as hosts. LA is still alive in the playoff race and the Pacers are still chasing the Cavaliers for the top spot in the Central Division. With that said there will be no let up from either team and a tight game late could also lead to some free throws and "scramble points" helping our cause. The Clippers have averaged 115.7 points per game in their last 7 home games. The Pacers have scored 106 points or more in 4 of their last 6 games and the Clippers are going to push the pace in this one as they seek revenge for last week's loss. 10* OVER the total in Los Angeles Clippers |
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03-31-18 | Pistons v. Knicks OVER 211 | Top | 115-109 | Win | 100 | 21 h 15 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #803 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Detroit Pistons @ 5:05 ET - The last time the Knicks were in action they combined with the Sixers to give me one of the worst "Bad Beats" I'll likely have this entire calendar year in any sport. The teams combined for 130 points at halftime and yet the game (a big play for me) did not go over the total. It was a horrific beat and, suffice to say, I had my eyes out for when I could get some payback involving New York. Now the Knicks host a Pistons team that, though not officially eliminated, knows that the odds of a playoff berth are basically somewhere between minuscule and nothing. In other words, this is a late season match-up of two non-playoff teams and that means defense goes out the window. Look for for a free-flowing offensive showcase. The Knicks are 7-3 to the over this season when they enter a game having played each of their 3 prior games on the road. Also, New York is 6-2 to the over in Saturday games. The Pistons are 7-2 to the over this season when off of an upset win as an underdog. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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03-29-18 | Bulls v. Heat OVER 210 | Top | 92-103 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #703 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Miami Heat vs Chicago Bulls @ 7:35 ET - With the Bulls having shot so poorly in many recent games I know I am going against the grain here. However, that is all part of being a contrarian and this is an excellent situation. The Heat are off of a huge win versus Cleveland where they held the Cavs to just 79 points. That is certainly noteworthy as Miami is 12-5 to the over (including 4-1 this season) when off of a game where they allowed 85 points or less. Also, as the Heat have been pushing hard to secure a playoff spot, they have been trending over. Prior to the low-scoring match-up with the Cavaliers, the over was 16-6 in Miami's 22 previous games. As for the Bulls, they were 5-1 to the over in their 6 games prior to getting obliterated by Houston and scoring only 86 points. As you would expect, Chicago struggles to stop quality teams and that has played a key role in the over going 25-13 in Bulls games versus teams with a winning record this season. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Miami |
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03-28-18 | Knicks v. 76ers OVER 220.5 | Top | 101-118 | Loss | -105 | 11 h 12 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs New York Knicks @ 7:05 ET - Look for this to be a very entertaining game with a ton of points scored. The Knicks Trey Burke looks like and, at least for the last 4 games, plays like his idol Allen Iverson. That said, off of a 42 point performance (with 12 assists) at Charlotte Monday, look for another huge game from Burke here as he's certainly excited about playing in Philly. This is his first visit to the City of Brotherly Love since he took on an increased role with the Knicks after the All Star break. The Sixers are red hot again and have won 7 straight games. They certainly are excited about Markelle Fultz being back on the floor finally and he had 10 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds in just 14 minutes in the 76ers big win over Denver Monday. Philadelphia is averaging 118 points per game during their current 7-game winning streak and the way the Knicks have been scoring since the All-Star break (and coinciding with Burke's increased role) sets the stage for an easy over here. The Knicks have scored at least 104 in 11 of their last 16 games while the Sixers have allowed 105.4 in their last 5 home games. This one should get well into the 220s based on that as Philly opened up as a 14 point favorite and both of these teams are really feeling it right now in terms of execution on offense! The over is 3-0 this season in Knicks road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. The over is 13-6 when the 76ers enter a game on a winning streak of 3 or more games. 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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03-26-18 | Knicks v. Hornets OVER 222 | Top | 128-137 | Win | 100 | 11 h 41 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #733 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs New York Knicks @ 7:05 ET - Though it is not official yet, even though the Hornets have won 3 straight games, Charlotte is effectively eliminated from the post-season race and they know it. That said, I like to look at the over in late-season match-ups like this that are between two teams that are not going to the post-season. These types of late season ho-hum games tend to lead to plenty of offense and very little defense as there is certainly not a lot of incentive to get stops on the defensive end. That said, I like the fact that this total already has dropped from it's earliest number of 224 down to a 222 and I would not be surprised if it drops even further. With their upset win at Washington yesterday, New York has scored more than 100 in 7 of their last 9 games. The rarity about yesterday's win was that the Knicks didn't allow triple digits. In fact, NY entered that game having allowed 108 points or more in 15 of their last 18 games. Not much defense in those numbers! The over is 8-4 this season when New York is playing the 2nd game of a back to back. Also, when off of an outright upset win as an underdog, the Knicks are 10-5 to the over this season! The over is 5-0 in the Hornets last 5 home games and they've averaged scoring 118.7 points per game their last 10 at home! 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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03-24-18 | Bulls v. Pistons OVER 210.5 | Top | 95-117 | Win | 100 | 9 h 24 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Detroit Pistons vs Chicago Bulls @ 7:05 ET - The Pistons, though of course they wouldn't admit it, are coming to terms with the fact that they're not going to make the post-season. They're just too far back now. After a loss to the Rockets, Detroit has lost 11 of its last 15 games. I know the Pistons have some good recent stats on defense but I look for this to be a run and gun shootout on Saturday evening in Detroit. This is a match-up of two teams not going to the post-season and the Bulls quit playing defense a long time ago. Chicago has allowed 117.3 points per game their last 7 games. Detroit needs a breakout game on offense after a frustrating game at Houston. Of course facing the weak Bulls is going to allow the Pistons to enjoy a huge electric game on the offensive end. Chicago is off of a home loss to Milwaukee that went over the total and the over is 9-4 this season when the Bulls are off of a divisional game. The Bulls have averaged 107.7 points per game on offense their last 7 games and you can see why I am looking for a 120 to 108 type game here which, of course, equates to an early over. This will appear to be a bit of a contrarian play given the Pistons recent numbers on defense but you can see, per the above, why I am expecting an entirely different mindset for this one. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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03-23-18 | Nets v. Raptors OVER 221.5 | Top | 112-116 | Win | 100 | 9 h 56 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #859 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Brooklyn Nets @ 7:35 ET - The Raptors and Nets just met early last week in Brooklyn and the game barely stayed under the total. In the Nets other 10 games dating back to their final game of February, the over is 7-3. As for the Raptors, they played very solid defense late in their win at Orlando Tuesday but they then suffered a tough beat at Cleveland Wednesday as they let that one get away from them late. Toronto may not have a lot of defensive intensity left after trying desperately to hang on in that revenge game at Cleveland (they just can't see to win there) and, keep in mind, this is the Raptors 6th game in 9 days! Toronto has allowed 52.7% or more from the field in 3 of their last 4 games. As for the Nets defense, they've allowed 110.4 points per game on the season. Brooklyn is 6-3 to the over when they enter a game having played each of their three prior games at home. The Raptors are 6-3 to the over in home games with a posted total of 220 points or more. This big total is absolutely justified and there won't be much D in this one! 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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03-20-18 | Raptors v. Magic OVER 214 | Top | 93-86 | Loss | -107 | 12 h 40 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #651 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Orlando Magic vs Toronto Raptors @ 7:05 ET - Who would play defense in this one and why? The Raptors certainly have bigger fish to fry and the Magic are just playing out the string on the season. Orlando is off of a very ugly game versus Boston Friday which is helping to give line value here as that one fell well short of the total. The fact is that, prior to that game, the Magic had allowed an average of 112.7 points per game in their 3 prior games. Also, in their 5 prior home games, Orlando had averaged 113 points per game. These teams just met 3 weeks ago and the total opened up at a 220. With this one opening up a half-dozen points short of that, I'll gladly step in. The Raptors have allowed 54.2% from the field in their last two games and defense is unlikely to be a priority here with a huge game at Cleveland on deck for tomorrow night. The over is 8-4 this season when Toronto is off of an upset loss as a favorite. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Orlando |
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03-19-18 | Grizzlies v. Nets OVER 211.5 | Top | 115-118 | Win | 100 | 10 h 59 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #611 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Memphis Grizzlies @ 7:35 ET - I successfully used the over in Brooklyn when the Nets hosted the Mavericks Saturday and this is a very similar situation. You have two non-conference foes matched up and both teams playoff aspirations are long gone. Simply put this is the perfect type of match-up that lacks in intensity and that almost always features loosely played defense and up-tempo offense throughout. The fact that both the Grizzlies and Nets are off of wins also helps in this regard as that further lessens the likelihood of any intense defense being played here. The over is 15-5 the last 20 times these teams have met in New York. Also, Brooklyn enters this game having gone 6-3 to the over in their last 9 games. They've allowed 117.2 points per game in those 9 contests. The Grizzlies, prior to a very rare win Saturday, had allowed 115.3 points per game in their 3 prior games. When Memphis enters a game having played each of their 3 prior games at home, the over has gone 19-8. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |
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03-18-18 | Thunder v. Raptors OVER 217 | Top | 132-125 | Win | 100 | 4 h 51 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Oklahoma City Thunder @ 1:05 ET - The Raptors and Thunder have gone over the total in each of their last 4 meetings. Overall, Toronto is 20-8 to the over in their last 28 games against Northwest Division opponents. Keep in mind, the Raptors aren't going to play as intense of defense against non-conference opponents as they would against a division rival. The same holds true for Oklahoma City and I look for the over to improve to 6-3 in Thunder games versus Atlantic Division rivals this season. The over is 5-2 in OKC's last 7 road games. Toronto is 20-2 SU in their last 22 games and their dynamic offense has led the way. The Raptors have averaged 115.5 points per game in those contests. They are a 6.5 point favorite here. If they just hit their recent average and the odds makers are right about the spread in this one, you're talking about a game hitting 225 points. That said, we have plenty of value here for a top play and that is what I am going with. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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03-17-18 | Mavs v. Nets OVER 213.5 | Top | 106-114 | Win | 100 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Dallas Mavericks @ 7:35 ET - This is the ideal type of late season match-up and scheduling situation that I look for when it comes to finding what should be an easy over. Non-conference match-up, two teams eliminated from playoff contention already, and both teams in a back to back spot. The fact each of these teams were in action last night means tired legs on defense which means less effort trying to close out on shooters or make the switch on screens, etc. The fact that neither team has playoff pressure means plenty of free-flowing offense in this one. Both teams scored very well last night and I expect more of the same here. Brooklyn has gone over the total each of the last two times they've hosted the Mavericks and the Nets game at Dallas earlier this season also went over the total. There should be very little defense in this game! 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |