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Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Meadowlands

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


Race 1 - Post: 7:15 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$11500 - 3 & 4 YEAR OLDS N/W 2


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 9 MUSCULARITY 10/1


# 2 BIG VALLEY SPEED 2/1


# 5 ELDORADO OF GOLD S 5/2


MUSCULARITY most likely is tough to overlook as the race horse to beat for this race and is a respectable value wager given the line. Many smart handicappers know speed is is such an important factor. This standardbred has credentials with a 80 avg ranking. BIG VALLEY SPEED - This horse and Brown have an excellent working relationship. In the money percentage for this pair is high. This race may be controlled by this gelding. Just one look at the avgerage TrackMaster Speed Rating will confirm that. ELDORADO OF GOLD S - Not many folks know, but the 5 post here at Meadowlands has been outstanding for a well above average win stat. The knowledge group gives this entrant a really strong chance to come home a winner, class ratings are tops in the field.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Woodbine

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


Race 2 - Post: 7:45 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 64 - Purse:$14000 - FILLIES & MARES, 4 YEAR OLDS & YOUNGER, NW 1 RACE OR $7,000 LIFETIME. NO ALLOWANCES. AE:NW $500 LAST 3 STARTS.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 6 FRANNEY LOVE DAT 2/1


# 4 FANNISH 10/1


# 2 CAST NO SHADOW 5/2


After thorough analysis by the consortium, FRANNEY LOVE DAT comes out as the top selection. Could surprise us at a fair price. Don't leave out. This interesting entrant looks dangerous. Check out the 68 avg TrackMaster Speed Rating. The 68 avg class rating may give this filly a distinct advantage in the field of horses. FANNISH - Could best this field of starters, just look at the TrackMaster speed fig - 59 - from her most recent race. CAST NO SHADOW - Worth looking at here on the basis of the markings in the TrackMaster SR department alone. A respectable class horse can't be glossed over. With an avg class number of 66 all signs point to yes.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero

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


Race 5 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $5220 Class Rating: 36

FOR NATIVE MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 120 LBS. CLASIFICADOS EN $5,000 ALLOWED 1 LBS. INFERIORES Y DEBUTANTES ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 BULLERIE 20/1


# 5 ATRACADOR 2/1


# 7 MENSAJERO DEL SOL 7/2


BULLERIE could be the bet in here and is a strong value bet given the line at 20/1. Likely to see a much stronger performance with the drop. ATRACADOR - Will almost certainly compete solidly in the early pace battle which bodes well with this field. MENSAJERO DEL SOL - Must be considered as he drops to compete against this less demanding group.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Oaklawn

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


Race 8 - Optional Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $61000 Class Rating: 104

FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR RESTRICTED OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $40,000. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 29, 2014 ALLOWED 3 LBS. A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 29, 2014 ALLOWED 6 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $40,000.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 8 DOUBLE OURS 5/2


# 10 RIVERS RUN DEEP 3/1


# 5 RIGHT NOW RICHIE 12/1


DOUBLE OURS has a very strong shot to take this race. Trainer boasts very solid win figures at this distance and surface. This horse has been consistently running well in his latest outings. Ran a solid last race. RIVERS RUN DEEP - Looks respectable for the conditions of this affair today, showing solid figs in dirt sprint races lately. This colt obviously likes the distance, going 5 - 9 in his races lately. RIGHT NOW RICHIE - Has longshot potential and could prove victorious at boxcar odds. Very good pick to take this race going in a dirt sprint.

Handicapped by Valuline at Penn National

Today's Most Likely Winner Is at:
Penn National, Race 4 (Thursday January 29, 2015)

AIM FOR GRACE

PEN-4 6f DIRT Ten Horses
"A" CLM 6,250 F/M 4YUP $13,800
P# dd ex p3 t s ML WP TVL

8 AIM FOR GRACE 9/5 42% 7/5 Strong Favorite icon
6 SILVER BOLT 12/1 20% 4/1

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Aqueduct - Race #4 - Post: 2:47pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 74

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 BETTY BING BING (ML=7/2)
#6 EPIPHANY (ML=5/2)
#5 KISS CAT (ML=8/1)


BETTY BING BING - The most dangerous animal in racing is the lone speed horse. If they let her get away early they probably won't catch her. Horse's last race was at Aqueduct in a race with a class number of 83. Dropping a significant amount in Equibase class figure this time out puts her in a solid position today. This filly gets a weight break of -5 lbs from last race. Could make the difference right here in this race. 'Blinkers On' is a time-honored positive angle in handicapping the races. EPIPHANY - True, this thoroughbred is coming off a layoff, but this filly runs well fresh. Looking at today's class figure, this horse is meeting an easier group than last time around the track at Finger Lakes. KISS CAT - Dropped down in class in the last race, and keeps in that lower class level in today's race. A good sign this horse is comfortable and ready to go. Three consecutive improved Equibase speed figures (64-66-71) make this animal a dominant contender.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 PAINTED PONEY (ML=3/1), #3 WISDOM OF OZ (ML=4/1),

PAINTED PONEY - Awfully tough to bet on this vulnerable equine when she hasn't been showing any signs of life lately. WISDOM OF OZ - Hard to put your dough on the win end of any horse that finishes second and third as often as this entrant does.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #1 BETTY BING BING to win if you can get at least 3/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5,6] Total Cost: $6

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Anita - Race #2 - Post: 1:30pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 90

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 CONGRATS SEATTLE (ML=2/1)
#8 FORTYATE HI POINTS (ML=12/1)


CONGRATS SEATTLE - Has unearthed a good spot this time. FORTYATE HI POINTS - 'Iggy' is right back for another race today after riding on board this animal for the 1st attempt on Jan 11th and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. This gelding made his initial bow on Jan 11th and ran well to finish third at big odds. I'm looking for another big effort from him today. This gelding is in good condition. Finished third on January 11th.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 WHISKEY WILD (ML=4/5), #2 FABBER (ML=6/1), #5 CHUCK'S CHUCKLE (ML=8/1),

WHISKEY WILD - This steed will almost certainly be pulling up the rear as this group crosses the wire. FABBER - This runner didn't go to the front end and didn't close any ground down the stretch last time he ran. Somewhat easily forgotten speed fig in the last race at Santa Anita at 5 1/2 furlongs. Don't believe this racer will improve too much in today's race. CHUCK'S CHUCKLE - Can't wager on this pony in today's sprint of 6 1/2 furlongs. Hasn't even hit the board in a short distance affair recently. In the last race this entrant finished sixth. Doesn't look promising for his chances this time out. When looking at today's Equibase class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed rating than in the last race to be competitive in this dirt sprint.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #6 CONGRATS SEATTLE to win. Have to have odds of at least 6/5 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [6,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

Woodbine Harness: Thursday 1/29 analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4 TICKET: 79/34/57/136810 = $40

MEET STATS: 25 - 73 / $153.90 BEST BETS: 2 - 7 / $13.20 SPOT PLAYS: 2 - 7 / $28.40

Best Bet: ARTISTIC MADISON (10th)

Spot Play: STEALTH JETTA (1st)


Race 1

(5) STEALTH JETTA, last Thursday's Spot Play, returns in that role hoping to get a better trip as he was stuck behind the fading leader down the lane while having plenty of trot he couldn't make use of. This group is within his reach as he makes his third start over Woodbine. (1) MANIMAL took heavy action at the windows and was driven with no interest at all. Perhaps they were trying to get a clean line on him after a miscue in his penultimate start. Price should be better here. (9) WIRE ME CASH waited and waited for cover and when no one took the bait he drove on to a nice first-over win aided by a glacial 3rd quarter. He's in the mix but it's doubtful that he repeats from out there. (8) PL GEMSTONE switches barns to Vanderkemp and could go better, especially if he replicates his January 25th effort.

Race 2

(2) CAST NO SHADOW makes her season debut and looks perked up with the move to the Tackoor barn as indicated by her winning qualifier 6 days ago. She won't need much improvement off that mile to take this group. (6) FRANNEY LOVE DAT made two moves in her sophomore debut last week but despite a good trip came up short in the lane. She may have needed that start. (1) MEGA MACHSY debuts with MacDonell handling both training and driving duties. She looks like she has some talent to offer but may not be rushed to produce her best first out.

Race 3

Quite the mishmash in this group of maidens. We'll call (6) MURS SON to upset. He was one of few that had late trot in his most recent and maybe Henry can get him a good trip up near the front tonight. (1) WHY ARGUE couldn't chase down a perfect-trip winner in the lane and is one of the more obvious ones but he will need more speed to take this. (8) TAROT showed nothing until the final quarter in his season debut and we've seen Rekila pops with this kind before second time out; beware.

Race 4

(9) WAKE N BAKE won so easily last week in her debut it appears she may be able to step right into NW2 and repeat. (7) NIPPY W HANOVER looks ready to roll for trainer Burgess and it will likely come down to one of the top two choices down the lane. (3) A FELLAS SECRET has some talent but has also shown to have some gait issues which could keep her in this class for a while. (4) ARIENNE was blocked with pace in the lane last week and might offer some value on the bottom of vertical wagers at a big price here.

Race 5

It appears (4) MAGIC MADNESS was bought by conditioner Gallucci for himself after a big upset win two weeks ago in a similar class. He retains Christoforou and has a big shot to double up. (3) STAR OF THUNDER's last line may be better than it looks as he trotted a :28 flat third quarter and came home well while far back. Expect Allard to place this one closer to the front early and possibly get a big piece at a huge price. (1) ELIZA DREAM continues to plug along and pick up checks but she needs to find more late speed to graduate from this class.

Race 6

(5) GOOD LUCK KATHY converted a beautiful trip into a win vs. $8K claimers two weeks back. This group of conditioned $15K claimers doesn't look much tougher and the 3rd-place finisher from her winning effort has already come back to score nicely. She gets top billing. (7) CALL ME MAYBE gets away from Blizzard Series foes and rates highly vs. this suspect group. (3) ONE NIGHT DANCE closed belatedly for 2nd last week but was the beneficiary of a plenty of front-end battling throughout the mile; for a minor award only.

Race 7

(6) A AND C ARTIST had good late speed to offer last time against a better group than he meets here. He can pull an upset with the right trip. (3) CAPELO was moved at exactly the right time by Christoforou to blow by a faltering leader and open an insurmountable lead quickly in the third 1/4. He is dangerous but likely to be overbet off that win that probably looked better than it really was. (1) PORT SIDE is one that quite often gets himself into traffic issues, but he is sharp and of these times soon Mayotte is going to reverse tactics, leave out with him and convert a good trip at a price. It may even be tonight.

Race 8

Those making their debuts look most likely to get their picture taken from this maiden group and from that group we'll side with (6) BET ON HILL who has shown both early and late speed in her New Jersey qualifiers. Expect Henry to send this one right down the road. (2) HAPPY ENDING GAL has shown great improvement in each qualifier and would be no surprise either. (3) WARAWEE QUALLY continues to show the qualities of a hanger/money-burning type. We'll continue to play against on the win end but she should make the board.

Race 9

(4) CANADIAN EDITION came through with one last win for his previous owners when claimed last week. We have a feeling he'll go even better for Puddy/Henry. Call right back. (7) ELECTRIFY got too far back early last time to make much of an impact late. The shorter field plays to his strengths tonight. (3) SEA STAR really had no excuse last time as he had clear sailing and dead aim bit couldn't reach the choice; for another minor award.

Race 10

(9) ARTISTIC MADISON fired off a wicked rally first time in Waxman's barn and looks best right back in here a week later. (7) B SANTANNAS LOVE went a big first-up trip to take a clear lead in the stretch but was no match for the choice; good chance of a repeat exacta here. (10) WILDCAT MAGIC parlayed a pedestrian half into a blowout win over Blizzard Series also-rans. She moves to the 10-hole vs. better company. We'll try to beat her out of the exacta and maybe even the tri, too. (5) KISS ME OR NOT dropped and popped showing great improvement albeit aided by a perfect trip; using in lower slots. (8) BETTIM JENNY drops out of the Blizzard Series and may offer some vertical wager value here from an outer slot.

Meadowlands: Thursday 1/29 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 74 - 303 / $430.60 BEST BETS: 9 - 22 / $33.20

Best Bet: MARTY PARTY (7th)

Spot Play: CRAZOLO (9th)


Race 1

(2) BIG VALLEY SPEED opened up a huge lead last week and somehow got nailed at the wire. I'm still sore over that defeat, but there really isn't much to sic your teeth into in this race. (5) ELDORADO OF GOLD S was a closing third behind the top choice last time. If one of the top two don't win, your guess is as good as mine as to who will score.

Race 2

(8) SENOR GRANDE came up with a big effort at the $12,500 claiming level last week and now drops in for $10k; logical choice. (1) LOGAN M might not be a mile-track horse, but he is sharp and adds Gingras. (9) WESTERN TSUNAMI has speed and is coming off some decent efforts.

Race 3

(7) VEGLIANTINO showed me a little something with a solid second-place finish after chasing a slow pace. I'd expect to see a little more aggression from her this time. (5) NEVER EVER CLEVER perked up with a career best mile most recently. (1) PASSING JETTA gets away from some tough Super Bowl foes; exotics player at least.

Race 4

(7) THISTHATNTHEOTHER has posted two even efforts in her return from a brief break and now picks up a more aggressive driver. I'll roll the dice and hope for early speed. (5) OOGLE GOOGLE raced well in her first start since November and can show more now. (4) RAISE YOUR GLASS qualified well and lured Campbell off my top choice.

Race 5

(1) BEST BOSS had stretch traffic and paced home willingly last week. Veteran pacing mare is in the right spot if she gets a smooth trip. (7) MOJARRA HANOVER has enough form and has displayed the ability to step up at this level. (8) PANCAKES just needs a good trip one of these days to end up in the winner's circle. (10) ANTIGUA HANOVER returns to the Meadowlands at a reduced level. Don't be shocked if she steps up.

Race 6

(5) LIGHTNING STRIKE hasn't been finishing his miles but does drop two steps down the claiming ladder. (2) EXPLODENT scored against lesser company last time. (3) YACHT KING & (4) JIN DANDY both closed reasonably well last week.

Race 7

(7) MARTY PARTY makes her second start off the bench and drops to the basement condition. I'm expecting a big effort. (1) ALBANIAN ERA fits nicely at this level and finally gets a good post to work with. (2) EVIL FIGHT has dangerous speed in a field lacking many early players.

Race 8

(5) BRING THEM HOME comes off a good closing effort and now picks up Gingras. (3) RHAPSODY ROSE is a veteran mare that knows how to win here. The class drop tonight should help her cause. (7) DELICIOUSLYNAUGHTY is better that her most recent effort; chance.

Race 9

(1) CRAZOLO was an even fourth last time despite a seven-plus week layoff. Four-year-old should be tighter now and has a huge post edge on the other logical contenders. (10) CASANOVA LINDY & (9) FUEL CELL finished one-two last week in this class. The outside posts are all that stands in their way. (2) HOMER JAY seems to be racing a bit better in the Harmon barn but hasn't won in years.

Race 10

(4) BREAK DANCER faces a pretty evenly matched group. I'll take a shot with this 15-1 morning line on the huge driver change angle. (1) GRATIAS DEO raced okay last time and tackles an easier group tonight. (7) PENN TURBO TED had no chance from post 10 last Thursday. If he can clear the top he'll be a major player. (6) BIG PUFF DOOGIE beat my top choice last time.

Yonkers: Thursday 1/29 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 11 - 60 / $50.50 BEST BETS: 0 - 5 / $0.00

Best Bet: KIASMA (2nd)

Spot Play: BETTOR B GENUINE (4th)


Race 1

(6) RUNAWAY ROSE seems to be coming around based on his last two trips; gets the call. (2) PEMBROKE BOW BOW has fine speed and the post can help his cause. (1) EVERYMILEAMEMORY raced evenly in her latest.

Race 2

(2) KIASMA Gelding now moves to the 2-hole and Sears keeps the faith; threat at his best. (4) SEA VENTURE flashed good early zip last time out; main danger. (5) STONEBRIDGE COWBOY put in a nice rally from the eight slot last time out.

Race 3

(5) AZOREANSAILOR put in a nice rally last time around and this gelding has a chance to get the job done over these. (2) TINYS MILLION showed speed in his recent trip. (3) MAYFLOWERMOONSHINE rallied strongly last out for the placing.

Race 4

(2) BETTOR B GENUINE gets serious post relief and the good news is Brennan stays aboard. (6) FIRSTCLASSFLIGHT put in a mild rally for the show spot last time out. (1) ALITTLEEASTERMAGIC should fare well from the fence.

Race 5

(2) NUTMEGS DESIRE Even finish in her last try. Pacing mare is very capable of getting back on the winning track. (4) CASE SOLVED was sent down the road for all the glory recently. (7) LITTLE MERMAID N can have a say with this group.

Race 6

(1) ALWAYS LOVE ME Quite sharp mare moves to the rail slot and with the right trip, she can make tonight a winning one. (4) MISS MACHQUEEN moves down in class and that makes her a contender in here. (2) AUF WIEDERSEHEN rallied strongly last out for place honors.

Race 7

(7) COLBY JATE did not fire at The Meadowlands but he should fit well in this event; all systems go. (4) GRANDPA DON put in a mild rally in his last trip. (2) PIECE OF THE ROCK Jersey invader is not out of this.

Race 8

(3) ER ROOM Even finish in his last start. Gelding can get back to his winning ways with Tetrick at the helm. (6) MILITARY STRATCOM Speedy gelding will take these as far as he goes. (4) GAVINS DESIGNER has put in two good efforts; watch out.

Race 9

This might be a good spot for (7) VENGANCE to make some serious noise against this group. (1) KEYSTONE RAPTOR moves to the rail slot and will be a serious threat in here. (2) BOOTS N BOURBON should be right square in the mix.

Race 10

(6) CASHENDASH HANOVER Sharp in victory last time out. Two straight is clearly not out of the question. (3) JUST THAT Maybe the three slot will help his chances against these. (4) ANDREW LUCK could be right in the mix.

Race 11

(8) MACHO CHICK showed good speed in her last two tries so with that said, if she can grab a good spot from the 8-hole, she could mow these down. (1) JOKES JET Easy score against lesser company last time out. (4) CLIMATE HANOVER could land a share of the purse.

Race 12

(2) PRECIOUS ROSE N Pacing miss got the job done last time out. Moves up a bit, but her form remains sharp enough to take another. (6) JET WASH put in a solid effort at the Big M last time out. (3) CHERRY BLISS might contend against these with the drop in class.

SPOT PLAYS

For Thursday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (1st) Radiant Cut, 4-1
(7th) Atlantic's Smile, 5-1

Charles Town (1st) Fancy's Secret, 4-1
(6th) Sister Stephanie, 4-1


Delta Downs (5th) Corner Store, 3-1
(10th) Endless Rules, 3-1


Fair Grounds (2nd) Super Sparky, 8-1
(4th) Tonto's Sister, 7-2


Golden Gate Fields (2nd) Fleet Eagle, 10-1
(4th) Olympic Jumble, 7-2

Gulfstream Park (7th) Afleet Mary, 4-1
(10th) Malbec, 10-1


Laurel Park (4th) Silver Legend, 9-2
(10th) Wildcat Creek, 3-1


Oaklawn Park (6th) Easter Shoes, 8-1
(9th) Loud Cat, 7-2

Penn National (6th) Ariadna, 3-1
(7th) Nile Sapphire, 3-1

Santa Anita (6th) Juniper Pass, 6-1
(8th) Silent Ruler, 4-1

NHL Grand Salami - January

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
1/1 2 10.5 10 UNDER
1/2 8 43 37 UNDER
1/3 10 52.5 74 OVER
1/4 7 37 46 OVER
1/5 1 5 5 PUSH
1/6 10 55.5 51 UNDER
1/7 4 22 23 OVER
1/8 10 55.5 58 OVER
1/9 5 26.5 33 OVER
1/10 11 58 58 PUSH
1/11 3 16 20 OVER
1/12 3 17.5 15 UNDER
1/13 10 54.5 64 OVER
1/14 4 21.5 18 UNDER
1/15 10 55.5 47 UNDER
1/16 6 32 34 OVER
1/17 12 64.5 69 OVER
1/18 4 21.5 33 OVER
1/19 7 37.5 37 UNDER
1/20 8 45.5 47 OVER
1/21 6 33.5 36 OVER
1/22 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/23 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/24 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/25 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/26 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/27 11 61.5 66 OVER
1/28 3 - - -
1/29 11 - - -
1/30 5 - - -
1/31 11 - - -

NHL Preview: Ducks (32-10) at Sharks (25-17)

Date: January 29, 2015 10:00 PM EDT

Anaheim is in position to win seven straight for the third time this season, and it's going to take a substantial disruption for the top team in the NHL to be pressured in the Pacific Division.

Still, the Ducks have something to prove Thursday night as they visit a San Jose Sharks team that's coming out of the All-Star break with the chance to forge a more personal seven-game streak.

The Sharks (25-17-6) have won the last six meetings in San Jose and have taken three of four overall matchups this season, accounting for 30 percent of the Ducks' regulation losses and clinching the five-game season series.

Anaheim (32-10-6) returned from the break in top form with Tuesday's 4-0 win in Vancouver. The Ducks have outscored opponents 25-10 in non-shootout goals during their run while killing off 18 of 20 power plays.

"We just wanted to go out there and start the week off right," defenseman Hampus Lindholm told the team's official website. "We did a very good job of that. The whole team is getting stronger. We feel like we're playing good out there. We just need to keep it up."

San Jose, playing its fifth date on a seven-game home stretch, is a distant second in the Pacific to Anaheim - 14 points back and one ahead of Vancouver and Calgary with Los Angeles also on its heels.

The Sharks are collectively 5-0-2 against Anaheim, the New York Islanders and Nashville - three of the four first-place teams - and they haven't played Detroit. However, though they've gone 3-1-1 in their last five, a 6-6-2 mark in the past 14 - during which they've allowed 3.21 goals per game - hasn't helped them make up ground in the division.

"We're a middle-of-the-pack team right now," coach Todd McLellan said. "Until we declare ourselves any different and that's through play and wins, that's what we are. We have to take steps forward to overcome that."

The Sharks defeated the Kings 4-2 last Wednesday going into the break. Joe Pavelski scored for the second straight game to give him 24 goals on the season, and he had two in the latest meeting with the Ducks - a 3-0 road win Dec. 31.

He's scored five times during a four-game goal streak in the series and has points in eight straight meetings.

Logan Couture had two goals and an assist against Los Angeles and recorded a goal and an assist New Year's Eve to give him 13 points in his last 10 against the Ducks.

"I don't know if we've played our best hockey yet," Couture said. "We're still improving, which is also positive. We realize we have a tough road ahead to get to the playoffs."

Some of that figures to fall on Antti Niemi's shoulders. He's won three of his last four starts, but has gone 5-4-2 with a 2.92 goals-against average in his past 11.

Niemi's most impressive showing during that stretch was a 28-save effort in the shutout of the Ducks. He's been in goal for each matchup this season, as well as all six games of the home winning streak against Anaheim with a 1.95 GAA.

Counterpart Frederik Andersen hasn't been nearly as good against the Sharks, going 1-5-0 with a 3.51 GAA. However, he's matched a career-best seven-game winning streak with a 2.07 GAA since losing to the Sharks last month.

Anaheim's Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry have each totaled five points in their last two trips to San Jose.

Ice-cold Panthers being blown out lately
Justin Hartling

The Florida Panthers have dropped their past five games and most of those games have not even been close.

The Panthers have been outscored 22-12 over those five games, a -1.7 goal differential per game.

NBA

Preview: Nuggets (19-27) at Grizzlies (33-12)

Date: January 29, 2015 8:00 PM EDT
By Tony Mejia

There won’t be a single meeting between teams with winning records on Thursday, but the NBA has a compelling night guaranteed. Regardless of how many blowouts or upsets we see on the four-game card, the announcement of the All-Star reserves will steal the show and become the talk of the sports world.
Fans did a nice job voting the starters in, but head coaches had until this past Sunday to fill in the other seven spots. The nation will find out the results on TNT at 7 p.m. ET, although some spoilers will surely trickle in via Twitter throughout the day. Because each conference only gets 12 players each, there’s bound to be players snubbed.

Last year, Anthony Davis was originally left off despite New Orleans being the home city. He was eventually named to the team to replace Kobe Bryant, ahead of an equally deserving DeMarcus Cousins. Toronto’s Kyle Lowry, voted in as a starter this season, couldn’t land a spot on last year’s East roster. Stephen Curry, a first-time starter last year and the leading vote-getter in 2015, was memorably snubbed two years ago despite major numbers.

There will be multiple stars with hurt feelings. It’s today’s biggest lock. Here’s who I’ve got on my All-Star list, as well as the players most likely to soon become annoyed at the mere mention of the league’s biggest showcase, to be staged in New York’s Madison Square Garden on Feb. 15:

Eastern Conference

Starters: F- LeBron James, Cleveland; F- Carmelo Anthony, New York; C- Pau Gasol, Chicago; G- Kyle Lowry, Toronto; G- John Wall, Washington

Forward/Guard: Jimmy Butler, Chicago-- No one has covered more ground this season, literally. The Bulls top perimeter defender has already traveled a league-best 120.4 miles on the floor, playing 39.5 minutes per game. As a result, one can argue he’s been the most valuable member of a team that has many qualified candidates and is an All-Star lock as the East’s top two-way player. Stats: 20.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 1.8 spg

Forward- Paul Millsap, Atlanta: He leads the East-lead Hawks in minutes and rebounding while ranking second in scoring and steals. A walking matchup problem who made his first All-Star appearance, last season and should expect to make a return appearance. Stats: 17.0 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.8 spg

Center- Al Horford, Atlanta: His return from a torn pectoral muscle has been a critical factor in the Hawks success. Not only is he the Hawks top rim protector, the chemistry he has with Millsap in the paint has been a game-changer. Look for him to earn his third All-Star nod. Stats: 15.2 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.4 bpg

Center- Nikola Vucevic, Orlando: Coaches around the league have taken notice of the great work the Magic’s 24-year-old big man has done in spite of his team’s struggles. Although much bigger names are out there, he’s got the best numbers. He and Sacramento’s Cousins are the only guys in the whole league averaging more than 19 points and 11 rebounds. Stats: 19.6 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 2.0 apg

Guard- Jeff Teague, Atlanta: The straw that stirs the drink for the conference’s best team, he’ll get the respect he deserves as the Hawks leader in scoring, assists and steals. His points-per-game average has increased every season he’s been in the league, and this sixth season has seen his game at its most mature. Stats: 17.1 ppg, 7.5 apg, 1.8 spg

Guard- Kyrie Irving, Cleveland: Although all the votes are in, dropping 55 points on Wednesday night is proof of the impact he has out there. Despite adjusting to a new role, he’s still put up enough production to guarantee himself a shot at repeating as All-Star MVP. Stats: 21.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 5.2 apg, 1.6 spg

Guard- Dwyane Wade, Miami: Eastern Conference coaches should tip the cap here, but he’s not just getting the nods because of his three rings and star power. Although the Heat have fallen off, the face of the franchise has been steady, playing in 35 of 45 games and shooting nearly 49 percent from the field while leading the team in scoring and assists. Stats: 21.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 5.4 apg

Snubbed: Chris Bosh, Miami; Kevin Love, Cleveland; Andre Drummond, Detroit; Derrick Rose, Chicago; Kyle Korver, Atlanta.

Bosh would have the highest scoring average in the NBA to not earn a nod, so the race between him, Vucevic, Love and Drummond, the East’s top rebounder, should be extremely tight. Rose is a former MVP who has shown signs he’s close to returning to his previous form, while Korver is widely recognized as Atlanta’s prized x-factor. His 53 percent from 3-point range is the best clip in the league by far.

Western Conference

Starters: F- Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers; F- Anthony Davis, New Orelans; C- Marc Gasol, Memphis; G- Stephen Curry, Golden State; G- Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers (*injured)

Forward- Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City: The reigning MVP has played only 21 games, so he may drop off a few ballots, but it’s hard to see him being excluded by enough coaches to not make the team. Keep in mind that OKC has won 14 of 21 games he’s participated in. This is a .500 team. That’s the tie-breaker between him and Russell Westbrook, who he have as a hard-luck omission in spite of a terrific first half. Stats: 25.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 4.1 apg, 1.0 bpg

Forward- LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland: The Blazers season teetered on the brink of collapse when it looked like he’d be out a few months due to thumb surgery, but he’s persevering through the pain and seems like a lock for his fourth consecutive All-Star bid. Stats: 23.6 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 1.2 bpg

Forward- Klay Thompson, Golden State: He’s been the top two-way player in the Western Conference. Considering the Warriors have the NBA’s top mark, they seem certain to land multiple All-Stars for the first time since 1993, when Chris Mullin and Tim Hardaway were chosen in tandem for a third straight year. Thompson is leading the Warriors in scoring and 3-point shooting, both in makes and percentage. Stats: 23.0 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 3.0 apg

Center- DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento: The best player yet to make an All-Star appearance should finally see his drought end. Should is the operative word, since it’s very possible he could get overlooked again. This time, coaches would have to pass on career-best numbers and increased maturity. Stats: 23.8 ppg, 12.3 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.6 bpg, 1.4 spg

Guard- James Harden, Houston: He’s an MVP candidate and the NBA’s leading scorer. Because of all the new additions and Dwight Howard struggling with injuries, he’s had to be the glue for the Rockets, excelling in the roles of leader and closer. Stats: 27.3 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 6.8 apg, 2.0 spg

Guard- Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers: He’s likely to make his eight consecutive appearance, though this one isn’t quite the no-brainer his inclusion has been in the past. His numbers have taken a slight dip and the competition has definitely improved, but he’s still among the top floor generals in the game and should still garner enough respect to make squad. Stats: 17.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 9.7 apg, 1.9 spg

Guard- Damian Lillard, Portland: He won’t be quite as busy on All-Star Weekend as he was last Feburary. After all, he played in the Rising Stars game against the rookies, won the Skills Challenge and competed in the dunk and 3-point contest before Sunday’s main event. He’ll be back playing with the big boys since he’s continued his upward trend. Stats: 21.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 6.2 apg, 1.3 spg

Injury replacement- Mike Conley, Memphis: The Grizzlies have led the best division in basketball virtually from start to finish. Their point guard has led the way, setting the tone on the defensive end with his ball pressure and setting the table on the other by running the show. He’s never been an All-Star, but hasn’t been as consistent as he’s been in 2014-15, on pace for career-highs in scoring, shooting percentage and 3-point percentage. For my money, he merits the spot Bryant vacates due to injury as head coach Steve Kerr chooses between Thompson and Harden as his starting shooting guard. Stats: 17.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.2 spg

Snubbed: Zach Randolph, Memphis; Tim Duncan, San Antonio; DeAndre Jordan, L.A. Clippers; Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City; Monta Ellis, Dallas.

Between Ellis and a deserving Dirk Nowitzki, it’s no wonder Mark Cuban has been pushing for more All-Star spots. A lot of superb performers go unrecognized. Randolph is averaging 17 and 12. He’s piled up 15 double-doubles in his last 16 games. Duncan continues to defy Father Time. Jordan leads the NBA in rebounds and field goal percentage while ranking second in blocks. Westbrook has put up cartoonish numbers. You can see why some might be resentful.

Thursday’s tips

Bucks at Magic – 7:05 PM EST

The Magic have won at Amway Center only once since Christmas, defeating Howard and the Rockets on Jan. 14. They saw a streak of seeing seven consecutive games go over the posted total get snapped in Memphis on Monday night, but still hope to push the pace whenever possible. Tobias Harris is now in a sixth man role. Milwaukee unexpectedly remains above .500 and has covered three consecutive games, the last two against defending Finals participants San Antonio and Miami. The Bucks lost in Orlando 101-85 on Nov. 14. They’ve won and covered all three times they’ve been a road favorite this season.

Knicks at Pacers – 7:05 PM EST

After Wednesday’s upset of OKC, New York has covered its last five games, winning four of them outright in emphatically snapping out of a funk that saw it lose 16 straight. Anthony’s return has sparked the unlikely resurgence, but he isn’t likely to play on the second night of a back-to-back. The Knicks lone loss in this current stretch came when he sat in Charlotte on Saturday. The Pacers have won just once in nine games and are facing their old rival for the first time this season. Indiana will see the Knicks twice in March and one last time in April.

Nuggets at Grizzlies – 8:05 PM EST

Memphis looks to win for the ninth time in 10 games, not to mention avenge a 114-85 loss at Denver on Jan. 3 that ranks as its most lopsided loss of the season by a wide margin. The Nuggets snapped a seven-game losing streak with an impressive 93-85 win at New Orleans. Denver has won on the second night of a back-to-back only twice in 10 attempts and has yet to do so in 2015.

Bulls at Lakers – 10:35 PM EST

Rose came up with his first 30-point game of the season and played over 40 minutes for the first time since April of 2012, so he’s getting close to truly being back. Handing Golden State only its second home loss doubled as a reminder that Rose has been rounding into form these past few months and anything is possible if he’s ready to truly flourish. Chicago’s six-game road swing continues on Friday in Phoenix before heading south for games at Houston, New Orleans and Orlando. L.A. has lost nine consecutive games and has surpassed the 100-point mark just three times in the last 13 games.