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NBA 2014-15 Props Outlook

By Tony Mejia

With the NBA regular season set to tip, time to get your futures in is running out. Publicist Jimmy Shapiro has dropped all of Bovada.lv's many available options this week, so I'll strap on my Halloween costume early -- there's a Santa cap involved -- and supply a bunch of treats into your goodie bags. You didn't even have to dress up and ring my doorbell.

2014-15 Rookie of the Year

Favorites: Jabari Parker (MIL) 5/2, Andrew Wiggins (MIN) 15/4, Nerlens Noel (PHI) 11/2, Julius Randle (LAL) 7/1, Doug McDermott (CHI) 9/1

Solid options: Marcus Smart (BOS) 12/1, Elfrid Payton (ORL) 15/1

Top longshots: Shabazz Napier (MIA) 30/1, Cleanthony Early (NYK) 30/1, Kostas Papanikolaou (HOU) 50/1, Adreian Payne (ATL) 55/1, K.J. McDaniels (PHI) 65/1, Mitch McGary (OKC) 65/1

Bank on: Parker is the choice here. He'll get the most opportunities to be the primary catalyst, which helped last year's winner, Michael Carter-Williams, run away from the rest of a fairly weak crop. Philadelphia's Noel would be my second choice, but he'll have ups and downs with foul trouble that could derail him. Boston's Smart and Orlando's Payton could pay huge dividends since both should get long leashes and will defend from Day 1.

2014-15 Coach of the Year

Favorites: Gregg Popovich (SA) 3/1, David Blatt (CLE) 9/2, Tom Thibodeau (CHI) 7/1, Doc Rivers (LAC) 10/1, Steve Kerr (GSW) 10/1

Solid options: Jeff Hornacek (PHX) 12/1, Rick Carlisle (DAL) 15/1, Dwane Casey (TOR) 15/1, Steve Clifford (CHA) 20/1, Terry Stotts (POR) 20/1

Top longshots: Erik Spoelstra (MIA) 35/1, Monty Williams (NO) 35/1, Lionel Hollins (BKN) 35/1, Randy Wittman (WAS) 45/1, David Joerger (MEM) 100/1

Bank on: I'd definitely fade Pop and Blatt since expectations are so high. Thibodeau and Rivers coach the teams I'm projecting to finish with the top records in their respective conferences, so your choice should be one of those two. I don't believe the Heat will fall flat, so backing Spo to rally the troops at a handsome rate wouldn't be a bad investment. Wittman can also win that Southeast Division if injury-prone key pieces Nene and Bradley Beal can hang around. To his credit, he's improved as a strategist over the past two seasons.

2014-15 Points per game leader

Favorites: Kevin Durant (OKC) 3/2, Carmelo Anthony (NY) 2/1, LeBron James (CLE) 11/4, James Harden (HOU) 13/2, Russell Westbrook (OAK) 12/1

Solid options: Kobe Bryant (LAL) 25/1, Blake Griffin (LAC) 25/1

Top longshots: Derrick Rose (CHI) 40/1, LaMarcus Aldridge (POR) 40/1, Anthony Davis (NOP) 40/1, DeMarcus Cousins (SAC) 60/1, Jabari Parker (MIL) 250/1

Bank on: Melo. He'll only double your money, but with Durant likely requiring an adjustment period upon his return from foot surgery and Westbrook sure to see a dip when that occurs, Anthony is a heavy favorite. James is going to share the rock in an attempt to make the game easier for his new teammates, while Harden will have to feed Dwight Howard to keep him happy. Every name listed in the other column above has a great shot at a top-three spot, but I don't see anybody getting to 30 per game. Bryant is most likely to make a determined run at it, because of course he is. The rookie at 250-to-1? Fun. It's highly unlikely, but he can put the ball in the basket.

2014-15 Rebounds per game leader

Favorites: Andre Drummond (DET) 9/5, DeAndre Jordan (LAC) 2/1, Dwight Howard (HOU) 4/1, Kevin Love (CLE) 5/1, DeMarcus Cousins (SAC) 14/1

Solid options: Nikola Vucevic (ORL) 16/1, Joakim Noah (CHI) 20/1

Top longshots: Omer Asik (NOP) 30/1, LaMarcus Aldridge (POR) 30/1, Anthony Davis (NOP) 30/1, Al Jefferson (CHA) 35/1, Blake Griffin (LAC) 50/1

Bank on: Drummond and Howard may be two of the NBA's worst free-throw shooters, but they're beasts on the boards, physically imposing their will on a nightly basis. Howard looks 100 percent and stronger than ever, so since he has less glass-eating competition than Drummond on his own team, we'll ride with him. Vucevic replaced him in Orlando, just got extended and really likes to get after it, so he'd be a strong play if you want to take a shot. Elite rebounders Asik and Davis will affect one another's production in New Orleans, which is why the odds on them appear so attractive.

2014-15 Assists per game leader

Favorites: Chris Paul (LAC) 2/3, Rajon Rondo (BOS) 2/1, John Wall (WAS) 8/1

Solid options: Ricky Rubio (MIN) 14/1, Ty Lawson (DEN) 16/1

Top longshots: Kyle Lowry (TOR) 40/1, Deron Williams (BKN) 40/1, Jrue Holiday (NOP) 40/1, Derrick Rose (CHI) 40/1, Michael Carter-Williams (PHI) 50/1

Bank on: Paul is the favorite for a reason. He'll take the assists title if he stays healthy, but we'll give you a couple of guys with more favorable odds to get behind. Lawson won his battle with Brian Shaw to play at an increased tempo last year and should do his best to keep teammates happy by pushing the pace and distributing. Lowry is another point guard coming into his own that could challenge if he continues improving and becoming more efficient.

Props to Bet

Will Kobe score 50 points in any single regular-season game? Yes +1000 (10/1), No -2000 (1/20)

Bank on: Sure, take a shot. It's probably on his mental to-do list. Wishful thinking? Not necessarily. I've heard he's done it before.

Will Rajon Rondo get traded during the 2014-2015 season? Yes -175 (7/4), No +125 (5/4)

Bank on: He'll be a free agent at season's end and is rushing back to try and make Boston's opener. Odds are he'll be wearing multiple uniforms since a suitor will likely pounce with an offer Danny Ainge signs off on well before the trade deadline.

Will Josh Smith get traded during the 2014-2015 season? Yes EVEN (1/1), No -140 (5/7)

Bank on: He's due $14 million annually through 2017. Unless Stan Van Gundy is willing to take on someone else's problem, odds are he'll try and rein in J-Smoove's shot selection and live with a headache capable of defending at a high level. He stays.

How many Cavaliers will be starters in the 2015 All Star Game? Over 2.5 -250 (2/5), Under 2.5 +175 (7/4)

Bank on: LeBron and Love are locks, sure to team with Carmelo Anthony in the East frontcourt. The backcourt is where this will be decided. I'd take a shot that fans vote for Rose, Wade and Wall enough to make Kyrie Irving sweat this out. Irving finished behind Wade last year with over 860,000 votes, more than double the output of Wall. Rose should be the leading vote-getter at guard if he stays healthy.

Who will start more games? Anderson Varejao (CLE) -160 (5/8), Tristan Thompson (CLE) +120 (6/5)

Bank on: Varejao played in 65 games last season, but participated in just 81 of 246 possible games from 2010-13. He'll start Game 1, but my money is on Thompson making more starts when all is said and done.

Will any Spurs player average 30 regular-season minutes per game or more? Yes -200 (1/2), No +150 (3/2)

Bank on: Keep in mind that nobody did it last season, since Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard were all over 29, but under 29.5. Still, the likelihood is that the 22-year-old Leonard emerges as an even larger piece, topping the 30-minute mark. Parker might even get back over the hurdle, since last year marked his lowest mpg clip since his rookie season. Duncan has only topped 30 once in the last four years.

Which splash brother will have the highest regular-season 3-PT shooting pct. during the 2014-2015 Regular Season? Stephen Curry -130 (10/13), Klay Thompson EVEN (1/1)

Bank on: Wouldn't touch this one. Curry has been tops between the duo three years running, but last season, the gap narrowed to .424-.417. With Kerr on board, this looks like a coin flip worth avoiding.

Will the Brooklyn Nets be sold during the 2014-2015 Regular Season? Yes +400 (4/1) No -600 (1/6)

Bank on: The Nets bled money last season, losing $131 million more than any other team according to Grantland, but Mikhail Prokhorov knows he's in an amazing market at a time where NBA franchises have never been more valuable. It will truly take an offer he can't refuse for him to sell. Ride no.

Will Kevin Garnett play in NBA game in the 2015-2016 Season? Yes +125 (5/4), No -175 (4/7)

Bank on: This is it for the future Hall of Famer we used to call "the Kid." Now 38 years old and in his 20th year of service, he's playing out the final year of a contract paying $12 million and is too proud to return for a fraction of that even if he did have another season in him. No is the rightful favorite, well worth the juice.

Will Andrew Wiggins participate in the 2015 Slam Dunk contest? Yes +200 (2/1), No -300 (1/3)

Bank on: The hope is that he will, but even at 2-to-1, there are too many moving parts to like this at all.

Will Wiggins win the 2015 Slam Dunk Contest? Yes +600 (6/1), No -1000 (1/6)

Bank on: The Magic 8 ball says, "better not tell you now." Piece of junk.

How many regular season games will Derrick Rose play? Over/Under: 68.5

Bank on: He's already playing back-to-backs, so I don't see him taking too many nights off. The Bulls have 19 sets of games on consecutive days, so even if he misses half of those, he'd still top this number. Add in a game or two for an ankle sprain, consider the fact his head coach is Tom Thibodeau and I like him getting in at least 70. Wouldn't touch this, but the optimistic over is my hopeful call here.

How many regular season games will Dwyane Wade play? Over/Under: 70.5

Bank on: Miami has the fewest back-to-backs, playing just 16, and while we will probably some Wade "maintenance" this season, he's a proud guy looking for a special bounce-back season for obvious reasons. While few who have watched him closely the past few years would be comfortable going over, I'll leave this one alone by saying I wouldn't feel confident going under either.

How many regular season games will Andrew Bogut play? Over/Under: 70.5

Bank on: He's looked spry in the preseason, but he's 7-feet tall and never shies away from contact. He started 67 times in 2013-14, but hasn't played more than 70 regular-season games since 2007-08. Considering he's only done it twice in nine seasons and turns 30 years old on Nov. 28, the under is a lock.

Will Minnesota rookie Zach LaVine participate in the 2015 Slam Dunk contest? Yes -140 (5/7), No EVEN (1/1)

Bank on: The young UCLA product will have a better shot if Wiggins passes, but I'm with the 8 ball here. "Cannot predict now." Seriously? "Ask again later."

Which young Sacramento wing will have the higher regular-season scoring average? Ben McLemore EVEN (1/1), Nik Stauskas -140 (5/7)

Bank on: McLemore averaged just 8.8 points as a rookie, but scored in double-figures in his final five games, dropping a career-high 31 points on the Suns in the regular-season finale. He and Stauskas may end up splitting minutes, but I think he'll nip the Canadian rookie long-range threat to help cash a neat prop.

30 key betting notes for 30 NBA teams

The landscape of the NBA looks much different heading into the 2014-15 campaign. After spending four years in South Beach, LeBron James makes his triumphant return to Cleveland thanks to a severe case of homesickness and the will to bring a long-awaited championship to Northeast Ohio - and he brought some old (and new) friends with him.

Atlantic Division

Boston Celtics (2013-14: 25-57 SU, 39-41-2 ATS)

Boston is still probably at least a year or two away from contending for a playoff spot. On most nights, backing the Celtics will likely turn out to be a lesson in frustration. Avery Bradley and Jared Sullinger made positive strides a year ago, but can they live up to higher expectations in 2014? If they can't, it could be another long year in Beantown.

Philadelphia 76ers (2013-14: 19-63 SU, 36-46 ATS)

Everyone is expecting the tank project to continue, and that will undoubtedly lead to inflated lines on a nightly basis. It's easy to forget that the Sixers had last year's Rookie of the Year in Michael Carter-Williams. He wasn't the only young talented player that emerged in Philly. The building blocks are in place for the Sixers to at least play competitive basketball, even if wins might be difficult to come by.

Toronto Raptors (2013-14: 48-34 SU, 46-33-3 ATS)

Could a letdown be in order? The Raptors aren't exactly accustomed to success as a franchise, and there's some concern that we'll see a hangover from last spring's disappointing series loss to the Nets. Kyle Lowry signed a big contract in the offseason, but will he be able to live up to the lofty expectations? Simply put, Toronto could be set up to fail this season.

Brooklyn Nets (2013-14: 44-38 SU, 42-40 ATS)

An injection of youth can't hurt a team that certainly looked old at times a year ago. New head coach Lionel Hollins is an upgrade over Jason Kidd. In fact, Hollins looks like an excellent fit to get the most out of this roster. Jarrett Jack could prove to be an underrated offseason pick-up.

New York Knicks (2013-14: 37-45 SU, 38-44 ATS)

Haven't we heard all of this optimism in Manhattan before? The Knicks have disappointed year after year, and who's to say that this is the campaign that breaks the cycle. Carmelo doesn't have a standout supporting cast around him, and the Knicks still seem to get everyone's best shot at Madison Square Garden.

Central Division

Chicago Bulls (2013-14: 48-34 SU, 41-40-1 ATS)

Chicago is loaded with talent, and they have a coach in Tom Thibodeau that gets the most out of his players. With a healthy Derrick Rose, the Bulls have the potential to make a run at the title. Chicago added Pau Gasol, Aaron Brooks, Doug McDermott, and Nikola Mirotic who will bolster Chicago’s offense. The Bulls always bring their defense under Thibodeau, and if the team avoids the injury bug, Chicago will be one of the best teams in the NBA this season.

Cleveland Cavaliers (2013-14: 33-49 SU, 40-42 ATS)

LeBron James. One player makes a huge impact in the NBA, and the Cavaliers go from an also-ran to a championship contender with the return of LeBron. Cleveland also added Kevin Love who completes the most formidable duo in the NBA this season. And with future superstar Kyrie Irving forming an unmatched trio, there’s no question the Cavaliers are the best team on paper coming into this season.

Detroit Pistons (2013-14: 29-53 SU, 35-46-1 ATS)

New head coach Stan Van Gundy is a huge upgrade over the poor Detroit coaching staff of last season. Gundy’s presence alone will boost the Pistons by more than a few wins. Detroit also has one of the best young frontcourts in the league, led by Andre Drummond. The Pistons underachieved last season, but with a solid nucleus and good coaching, Detroit could easily eclipse the 40-win mark this season.

Indiana Pacers (2013-14: 56-26 SU, 38-43-1 ATS)

The team lost Lance Stephenson to free agency, and Paul George suffered a gruesome leg injury over the summer while playing for Team USA. That leaves Indiana minus their best two players on both ends of the court. The Pacers only scored 96.7 points per game last season, and with 36.2 points per game now missing, Indiana will have a terrible offense this season.

Milwaukee Bucks (2013-14: 15-67 SU, 36-45-1 ATS)

The team has solid building blocks in place, but they are still years away from competing for a playoff spot. Youth doesn’t win in the NBA, and since Milwaukee is one of the youngest teams in the league, they don’t project to have much success right away.

Southeast Division

Washington Wizards (2013-14: 43-38 SU, 42-38-1 ATS)

With Bradley Beal and John Wall, the Wizards have one of the best backcourts in the NBA. Dion Waiters might think otherwise, but I think Beal hit the nail on the head in his reply to Waiters when the two had a war of words on Twitter a few weeks back: "you gotta win a playoff game first before you can talk. You gotta be a starter first." The signing of Marcin Gortat gives Washington one of the best centers in the Eastern Conference for five more years, and at 29 years old the Polish Hammer is in the prime of his career.

Miami Heat (2013-14: 54-27 SU, 37-42-2 ATS)

Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade have a lot to prove this year, and both players have welcomed the challenge. While Luol Deng won't replace LeBron James, he still gives the Heat a formidable Big Three. The biggest thing this team might have going for it, is that they should be hungrier this year.

Atlanta Hawks (2013-14: 38-44 SU, 37-43-1 ATS)

The bad news for Atlanta is that while they hope to be better, the competition in the East is going to be much tougher than it was last year, and 38 wins isn't likely going to be enough to get into the playoffs. The Hawks did little in the off-season to address their shortcomings on the boards. Altanta ranked 28th in the NBA averaging 40 rebounds per game last season.

Charlotte Hornets (2013-14: 43-39 SU, 46-32-3 ATS)

This appears to be a young team on the rise, coming off an inspiring post-season appearance last year. They acquired Lance Stephenson via free agency, and Noah Vonleh in the draft. Veteran Al Jefferson was a nice fit last season, averaging over 20 points and 10 boards, for his best season since 2009. He has a solid supporting cast with Kemba Walker, Gerald Henderson and Cody Zeller all young players with their best years ahead of them.

Orlando Magic (2013-14: 23-59 SU, 34-44-4 ATS)

This team is clearly in a rebuilding stage, and nothing they did this summer would suggest that they have any intentions of competing this season. The plan for the future likely involves getting one of the top picks in the 2015 draft, and winning more than 28 games would put a wrinkle in that plan.

Northwest Division

Oklahoma City Thunder (2013-14: 59-23 SU, 43-37-2 ATS)

Even with Kevin Durant sidelined, the Thunder are still one of the most talented teams in the Western Conference. They have the pedigree to take another run at the conference crown, and will certainly be highly motivated after an ugly exit at the hands of the Spurs in the 2013-14 postseason. With Durant worth a few points on the spread all on his own, we could see some value open up, particularly early in the season.

Utah Jazz (2013-14: 25-57 SU, 33-43-6 ATS)

The cupboard is by no means bare for first year head coach Quin Snyder. It's a youthful roster, but not one that's short on talent. If the trio of Gordon Hayward, Alec Burks and Trey Burke can play to their capabilities, the Jazz could surprise or at the very least avoid another embarrassing finish. Thanks to posting a conference-low 25 wins last year, expectations are extremely low and that could work in Utah's favor from a betting perspective.

Portland Trail Blazers (2013-14: 54-28 SU, 44-38 ATS)

The injury to Kevin Durant could put a little extra hop in the Blazers step, as they have to feel they have a legitimate shot at stealing the division. Portland's bench held it back last year but the Blazers did make a couple of moves to improve that area, adding Chris Kaman and Steve Blake. Baby steps. The oddsmakers are expecting some regression, but on a game-to-game basis, Portland should still manage to record an above .500 ATS mark.

Denver Nuggets (2013-14: 36-46 SU, 39-43 ATS)

Even if the Nuggets stay healthy, there's no guarantee they can slip past any of the playoff incumbents in the West. Denver doesn't seem to have the same home-court advantage it once enjoyed and injuries can't be entirely to blame. Will there be a chemistry issue with so many players in and out of the lineup a year ago?

Minnesota Timberwolves (2013-14: 40-42 SU, 39-43 ATS)

The West might just provide a little too much heavy lifting for a team that is looking toward the future. Flip Saunders isn't the answer as head coach of this young squad. Things could get ugly in a hurry at the defensive end of the floor and the offense will take time to gel. To put it simply, there are too many questions and not enough answers right now.

Pacific Division

Golden State Warriors (2013-14: 51-31 SU, 41-38-3 ATS)

Golden State’s roster looks identical to last season when they won 51 games. The Warriors did add Shaun Livingston, Brandon Rush, and Leandro Barbosa to bolster their depth on the second unit. Golden State’s defense will be one of the best in the NBA with the hire of assistant coach Ron Adams who is a defensive wizard.

Los Angeles Clippers (2013-14: 57-25 SU, 46-35-1 ATS)

Los Angeles is one of a handful of teams with a legitimate shot at winning the NBA championship this season. The Clippers have a formidable duo in Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, and they got rid of some dead weight and brought in productive second unit players. Doc Rivers is one of the best coaches in the league, and his second year in LA should be better than the first.

Los Angeles Lakers (2013-14: 27-55 SU, 40-40-2 ATS)

This team is in desperate need of an overhaul. Los Angeles is old and slow, and the veterans are injury prone. The Lakers’ defense projects to be terrible this season, and since they do not possess an offense that can out-score opponents on a regular basis, it’s hard to envision much success this season. The Lakers will be hard-pressed to crack 30 wins overall.

Phoenix Suns (2013-14: 48-34 SU, 52-29-1 ATS)

Phoenix was the biggest surprise team in the NBA last season when they won 48 games as their season Over/Under win total was just 19.5 games. The Suns won’t be sneaking up on opponents this season, so don’t expect a repeat of many upsets like last year. Phoenix plays with a small lineup, so they are at a major disadvantage inside the paint. The Suns’ defense is also a liability now with the departure of Channing Frye.

Sacramento Kings (2013-14: 28-54 SU, 37-42-3 ATS)

Sacramento has a tremendous head coach in Mike Malone, and with DeMarcus Cousins and Rudy Gay, the Kings have some good pieces to work with. They underachieved last season, and they lost of a lot of close games. The Kings are better than perceived, so they may prove to be a tough out this season.

Southwest Division

San Antonio Spurs (2013-2014: 62-20 SU)

San Antonio breezed through the regular season finishing with the league's best record last year (62-20). The Spurs are a disciplined team and very well coached under Gregg Popovich. They haven't won less than 58 games in a full season since they win 50 in 2009-2010.

New Orleans Pelicans (2013-2014: 34-48 SU)

They have one of the brightest young stars in the league in Anthony Davis. The 21 year old led the team in scoring averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds. He also led the entire league in blocked shots. He'll have a little more help this year with Omar Asik coming over from Houston, and Jrue Holliday back from injury.

Dallas Mavericks (2013-2014: 49-33 SU)

They may have too many players on the wrong side of 30. Chandler Parsons and Monta Ellis are the only two players under 30 that will log any significant minutes this season.

Houston Rockets (2013-2014: 54-28 SU)

They lost Chandler Parsons via free agency and let Jeremy Lin go to the Lakers. Omar Asik has moved on to New Orleans, and overall this team hasn't done enough to replace the talent that it lost.

Memphis Grizzlies (2013-2014: 50-32 SU)

Memphis got off to a slow start last year, partly due to injuries. The Grizzlies finished the season strong, winning 50 games and making the playoffs. The Grizz gave the Thunder a run for their money in the first round of the playoffs, but came up short in Game 7

Spurs, Pelicans, Rockets favored on opening night
Andrew Caley

We are just a day away from tipping off the 2014-15 NBA season and the lines for the opening night games are out.

The season tips off Tuesday with defending champions San Antonio currently 4.5-point home favorites against visiting Dallas. The total is at 206.5.

New Orleans is 9.5-point home favorites against Orlando, with a total sitting at 196.

The finale on Tuesday night features Houston visiting the Los Angeles Lakers, where the Rockets are 6-point road favorites. The total opened at 207.5.

Faves coming through in Lakers-Rockets matchups
Stephen Campbell

James Harden and the Houston Rockets kick off the brand new NBA campaign Tuesday night in Tinsel Town against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Trends are showing the favorites have been coming out on top in previous clashes between the two, evidenced by the faves going 7-1 ATS in their last eight matchups.

The Rockets are currently 6-point road faves with a total of 207.5.

Underdogs the hot bet in Spurs-Mavs contests
Stephen Campbell

The 2014-15 NBA season gets underway on Tuesday, with the reigning champion San Antonio Spurs hosting Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks.

Recent history is showing when the Mavs and the Spurs get together, the underdogs have been coming out on top. Dogs are 8-1 ATS in the last nine meetings between the two squads.

San Antonio is currently 4.5-point home faves with the total set at 205.

One day before tipoff Cavaliers favorites to win NBA title
Andrew Caley

We are just one day away from the return of the NBA and despite LeBron James trying to have modest expectations for his first season back with the Cavaliers, in Vegas Cleveland is the favorite to win the 2014-15 NBA Championship.

According to the Westgate LV Superbook, the Cavaliers are the 5/2 favorites heading into the season, just slightly ahead of the defending champion San Antonio Spurs, who are on the board at 3/1.

Chicago and Oklahoma City are also good bets to win at 6/1 and 9/2 respectively.

Magic ice cold ATS vs. New Orleans
Stephen Campbell

The Orlando Magic have been struggling to cover the spread in games against New Orleans, going 2-8 ATS in their last 10 versus the Pelicans.

The two clubs will renew acquaintances in the Bayou State during NBA season-opening action Tuesday.

The Pellies are presently -9.5 home favorites for the affair. The total is currently 196.

NBA

DALLAS (52 - 37) at SAN ANTONIO (78 - 27) - 10/28/2014, 8:05 PM

Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 860-748 ATS (+37.2 Units) in all games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 680-577 ATS (+45.3 Units) as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 439-364 ATS (+38.6 Units) in home games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 133-90 ATS (+34.0 Units) on Tuesday nights since 1996.
DALLAS is 97-73 ATS (+16.7 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 24-13 ATS (+9.7 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 30-15 ATS (+13.5 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 130-98 ATS (+22.2 Units) in road games first half of the season since 1996.
DALLAS is 218-169 ATS (+32.1 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 8-7 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 12-3 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
10 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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ORLANDO (23 - 59) at NEW ORLEANS (34 - 48) - 10/28/2014, 8:05 PM

Top Trends for this game.
ORLANDO is 70-90 ATS (-29.0 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
ORLANDO is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games on Tuesday nights over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 2-2 against the spread versus ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 2-2 straight up against ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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HOUSTON (56 - 32) at LA LAKERS (27 - 55) - 10/28/2014, 10:35 PM

There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 4-3 against the spread versus LA LAKERS over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 5-3 straight up against LA LAKERS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

NBA

Trends

ORLANDO vs. NEW ORLEANS
Orlando is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Orlando's last 8 games on the road
New Orleans is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home
New Orleans is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Orlando

DALLAS vs. SAN ANTONIO
Dallas is 3-13 SU in its last 16 games when playing San Antonio
Dallas is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Antonio's last 6 games when playing Dallas
San Antonio is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Dallas

HOUSTON vs. LA LAKERS
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 8 games on the road
Houston is 4-9-1 ATS in its last 14 games on the road
LA Lakers are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games when playing Houston
LA Lakers are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games at home

Grand Salami - October

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

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

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


NHL GRAND SALAMI

Date No. of Games Total Goals Combined Goals Scored Result

10/8 4 22 20 UNDER
10/9 12 67.5 70 OVER
10/10 1 5.5 8 OVER
10/11 15 79.5 84 OVER
10/12 2 10 14 OVER
10/13 4 21.5 18 UNDER
10/14 9 50.5 60 OVER
10/15 3 16 19 OVER
10/16 7 39 42 OVER
10/17 6 32.5 18 UNDER
10/18 11 59.5 55 UNDER
10/19 4 21 15 UNDER
10/20 1 5.5 5 UNDER
10/21 10 55.5 59 OVER
10/22 3 16.5 18 OVER
10/23 8 43.5 48 OVER
10/24 5 27.5 35 OVER
10/25 11 58.5 59 OVER
10/26 5 27 24 UNDER
10/27 2 10.5 12 OVER

Preview: Hurricanes (0-5) at Canucks (5-3)

Date: October 28, 2014 10:00 PM EDT

The Vancouver Canucks have taken notice of some strangers hanging around Rogers Arena the last few days.

They would be the winless Carolina Hurricanes, who are in town for an extended period thanks to a scheduling quirk.

The Hurricanes will likely have Eric Staal back in the lineup Tuesday night when they try to end their club-record seven-game winless start.

Carolina (0-5-2) hasn't played since Friday's 6-3 loss at Edmonton. The Hurricanes practiced Sunday and Monday in Vancouver ahead of the finale of their five-game trip.

"When you see them in here, our guys know that they're going to be fresh and ready to go," Canucks coach Willie Desjardins said. "Sometimes when you don't see guys around, you think that maybe they're tired but we know they'll be fresh and we know they'll be hungry."

Staal, who had a team-high 61 points a season ago, has missed the last five games with an upper-body injury. He returned to practice Monday and expects to play.

The Hurricanes are unsure of the statuses of wingers Nathan Gerbe and Patrick Dwyer, who both have lower-body ailments. Coach Bill Peters said his club is missing the presence of the veterans.

"It'd be nice if we had a few older guys to lead the way in the lineup, but right now you look down the middle, and those are some inexperienced players," Peters said. "It shows at times. I like the way they've played, but when we get everybody slotted where they're supposed to be slotted, it'll be even better."

Hurricanes coaches were in attendance Sunday for Vancouver's 4-2 win over Washington. They saw four different Canucks score, with Radim Vrbata notching his team-best fifth goal.

"It's much better live," Peters said. "You get to see stuff away from the play and see things develop that you might not catch on camera."

Carolina no doubt learned that Vancouver's top line of Vrbata and the Sedin twins isn't the only threat to worry about Tuesday. The second line of Nick Bonino, Alex Burrows and Chris Higgins combined for four points Sunday, and that trio has totaled 13 in the last three games.

"I think they work really hard, they get in on the forecheck," said Bonino about his wingers. "We win a lot of our battles and when you do that, you're going to have possession of the puck and so far some shots have gone in for us."

Vancouver (5-3-0) seeks to take advantage of a Carolina team allowing 3.86 goals per game for one of the league's worst marks.

One positive for the Hurricanes on this trip was the season debut of Jeff Skinner three games ago. Skinner, who had a team-high 33 goals in 2013-14, scored his first goal Thursday after being out with a concussion.

The Canucks have won six straight at home in this series since a 4-1 loss Oct. 15, 1999. The home team has captured eight of the last nine matchups.

Gunnarsson to make Blues debut Tuesday
The Sports Xchange

Defenseman Carl Gunnarsson is expected to make his St. Louis Blues debut on Tuesday in Dallas, St. Louis coach Ken Hitchcock said Monday.

Gunnarsson, 27, had hip surgery in the offseason before being acquired by the Blues in a trade with Toronto. He missed the first seven games with his new team.

Gunnarsson had three goals and 14 assists in 80 games for the Maple Leafs last season.

Hitchcock did not say which defenseman Gunnarsson will be paired with or how much he will play on Tuesday. Hitchcock said he may go with seven defensemen for that game.

Sharks' Scott suspended two games
The Sports Xchange

The NHL suspended San Jose Sharks forward John Scott two games, without pay, for leaving the bench on a legal line change and starting an altercation with Anaheim Ducks forward Tim Jackman on Sunday, the league announced Monday.

Scott is considered a repeat offender under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and, based on his average annual salary, will forfeit $17,073.18.

Scott was assessed a minor penalty for instigating, a major for fighting and a game misconduct for leaving the bench on a legal line change to start an altercation 13:56 into the third period.

Scott has one goal in the five games he has played this season.

WS Game 6 - Giants at Royals

SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS (99-78) at KANSAS CITY ROYALS (99-76)

2014 World Series
Game 6 - San Francisco leads series 3-2
First pitch: uesday, 8:05 p.m. ET
Line and Total: Kansas City -140, San Francisco +130, Total: 7

The Giants look to capture their third World Series title in five years when they visit the Royals in Game 6 on Tuesday night.

This is no new spot for San Francisco, as it has been the best team in the league over the past half decade, and comes into Game 6 after winning 2-of-3 games at home in which it outscored Kansas City by an 18-7 margin.

Sunday's 5-0 victory was impressive, as starter Madison Bumgarner (9 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 8 K's) threw the first shutout in a World Series game since 2003 while being backed by a solid offensive performance from SS Brandon Crawford (2-for-4, 3 RBI).

Meanwhile, 3B Pablo Sandoval had another two hits in the game to give him multiple knocks in four of his past six outings with 4 RBI and four runs. Kansas City had not lost in the postseason until the World Series and now faces elimination after failing to muster much offense in the past two games (4 runs) and could not figure out Bumgarner on Sunday.

The Royals had minimal opportunities to score, going a mere 0-for-2 with runners in scoring position as they tallied just one extra-base hit. Their bullpen also struggled again, allowing three runs (2 ER) in their two innings of work.

While they have been unable to do much offensively, 1B Eric Hosmer continues to be K.C.'s biggest bat with a hit in eight of the past 10 games while recording two homers and 10 RBI in the playoffs.

Looking to clinch this important Game 6 will be RHP Jake Peavy (1-1, 3.68 ERA) as he goes against RHP Yordano Ventura (0-0, 4.42 ERA) who attempts to keep his team’s season alive.

On the year, the Giants are 48-40 (.545) when playing on the road while the Royals are 47-40 (.540) when playing within the confines of Kauffman Stadium.

Overall this season, Kansas City holds a 5-3 record against San Francisco and has done well when playing at home in that time, going 4-1.

Trends show that the Giants are a solid 35-25 (.583) on the road when the Total is 7 to 8.5 runs this year, while the Royals are 16-5 (.762) when playing with a day off in 2014.

The injury situation remains the same for this contest as San Francisco’s OF Angel Pagan (back) and 2B Marco Scutaro (back) are out for the season ,while Kansas City has no significant omissions from its lineup.

Jake Peavy was acquired midseason mainly for his experience and gave the Giants a solid second half in which he went 6-4 with a 2.17 ERA over 12 starts during the team’s playoff push. He also showed amazing control in that time with 1.9 walks per nine innings while giving up a mere three long balls over 78.2 frames (0.34 HR/9).

Overall in his postseason career (8 starts), Peavy has gone 1-4 with a miserable 7.05 ERA and 1.70 WHIP, while pitching two games in the World Series, both of which his team has won, despite him allowing six runs in a total of nine innings. Against the Royals in his career, he is 5-8 (6-9 team record) with a 5.09 ERA and 1.39 WHIP while giving up 10 runs on 16 hits over his past two starts (10 IP).

Plenty of Kansas City hitters have had success against the veteran, with DH Billy Butler (.424 BA, 3 HR, 8 RBI in 33 AB), SS Alcides Escobar (.409 BA, 2 HR, 8 RBI in 22 AB) and OF Alex Gordon (.357 BA, 2 doubles, 1 HR, 5 RBI in 28 AB) all knocking him around. On the other hand, 1B Eric Hosmer, 3B Mike Moustakas, C Salvador Perez and OF Lorenzo Cain have combined to go a meager 11-for-57 (.193) with 1 HR, 4 RBI and 10 strikeouts in the matchup.

The Giants’ bullpen is a sparkling 38-15 (.717) this season with a tremendous 2.90 ERA and 1.05 WHIP while successfully saving 51-of-70 (73%) games. Closer Santiago Casilla (0.00 ERA, 4 saves) has allowed just two hits in his nine appearances (7.1 IP) this postseason while going a perfect 4-for-4 in save chances.

Yordano Ventura uses his explosive fastball, which averaged 96 MPH in the regular season, to baffle hitters to the tune of 7.8 K/9 in 2014. His control (3.4 BB/9) lacked somewhat though, but he did not allow too many homers (0.69 HR/9) in his time on the mound.

So far over his first three postseason outings, Ventura has given up seven runs (2 HR) in 18 innings while recording 10 strikeouts. When he faced the Giants in Game 2 of this series, he allowed only two runs on eight hits to San Francisco, while he struck out two batters en route to a no-decision in which his team captured a 7-2 victory. OF Gregor Blanco got to Ventura early with a leadoff home run while both 1B Brandon Belt and 3B Pablo Sandoval hit doubles off the young righty. Meanwhile, C Buster Posey was 1-for-3 with a strikeout against him.

The bullpen for Kansas City is much of the reason why it has made it this far, and overall on the year the relievers are a collective 35-19 (.648) with a 3.28 ERA and 1.24 WHIP while being an amazing 60-for-72 (83%) in save opportunities. Closer Greg Holland (0.90 ERA, 7 saves) has allowed just four hits with 13 strikeouts in his 10 postseason appearances (10 IP).