NLCS Game 6: Dodgers vs Brewers Preview and Pick

Dodgers Can Clinch NLCS in the Brew City

The fans at Miller Park will see the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night. This series has been a nail-biter the entire time. There is no reason tonight will be any different.

TV: 8:39 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1

PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers LH Hyun-Jin Ryu (1-0, 1.59 ERA) vs. Brewers LH Wade Miley (0-0, 0.00)

ODDS: The Dodgers are listed as -113-moneyline favorites versus the Brewers. The game's total opened at 8, but is now down to 7.5.

The Dodgers are one win away from a second straight trip to the World Series. They will have to earn that victory on the road in very hostile territory. The Dodgers will try to close out the best-of-seven NLCS.

The Dodgers fell behind 2-1 in the series after dropping Game 3 at home. They turned up the pitching over the next two contests. They limited the Brewers to a total of three runs in 22 innings in the two wins.

Pitching Will Decide This One

Milwaukee will try to find a way to push some runs across against left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu. They are making some history by tossing lefty Wade Miley at the start in back-to-back games.

Miley started Game 5 but threw only five pitches, issuing a walk to Cody Bellinger. He was replaced by right-hander Brandon Woodruff in a surprise move designed to give Milwaukee a matchup advantage.

Miley dominated Los Angeles in Game 2, scattering two hits over 5 2/3 innings without factoring in the decision.

Ryu tossed seven scoreless innings to earn a win over the Atlanta Braves during the NL Division Series. He was not quite as sharp in Game 2 at Milwaukee.

The South Korea native was reached for two runs on six hits over 4 1/3 innings in a no-decision. Ryu did not allow more than two runs in any of his last five starts going back to the regular season. He has yet to be reached for more than three earned runs on the season.

This and That and NLCS Prediction

Brewers star RF Christian Yelich is 3-for-20 without an extra-base hit in the series.

LA RHP Pedro Baez has thrown 6 2/3 scoreless innings. He has allowed a total of two hits with 10 strikeouts in six postseason appearances.

Milwaukee went Game 5 without using relievers Josh Hader, Corey Knebel or Jeremy Jeffress, and all three should be ready to go Friday.

PREDICTION: Brewers 4, Dodgers 2

NLCS Betting Odds & Trends

Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodgers is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
LA Dodgers is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games
Dodgers is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games on the road
LA Dodgers is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Milwaukee
Dodgers is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Milwaukee
LA Dodgers is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Dodgers is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee

Milwaukee Brewers
Brewers Are 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Milwaukee is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Milwaukee's last 9 games
Milwaukee is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Milwaukee is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Milwaukee's last 12 games at home
Milwaukee is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing LA Dodgers
Brewers Are 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing LA Dodgers
Milwaukee is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers
Milwaukee is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers

 

Next up:
Los Angeles at Milwaukee Saturday, October 20

Get a Signup Bonus of up to $1,000 at the Internets 1st and safest online sportsbook, Intertops

NBA on TNT: Trail Blazers Host the Lakers in Late Game

King James Makes Lakers Debut Against Trail Blazers

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trail Blazers meet on Thursday at Moda Center. TNT has the most anticipated debut game of any in recent memory of the NBA. Everyone in the world will be watching to see this game play out.

Tipoff is set for 10:30 pm EST.

Oddsmakers opened the Trail Blazers as -3-point favorites versus the Lakers, while the game's total opened at 220. The line stayed steady, but the total is up to 223.5.

LeBron James makes his highly anticipated team debut in the season opener for both teams. James signed a four-year, $153.3 million contract as a free agent last July. King James looks to boost the fortunes of the once-proud franchise.

James has played in the NBA Finals in each of the past eight seasons but it seems highly improbable that the Lakers. The Lakers have five straight losing seasons under their belt.

A turnaround that includes getting past the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference seems unlikely.

Lakers Just Look to Improve in All Facets of the Game

The first task facing Los Angeles is figuring out how to beat the Trail Blazers. Portland has won the past 15 meetings and figure to be a playoff team again this season.

The Lakers were 35-47 last season and figure to be greatly improved. Becoming a playoff team is not that big of a reach with the talent they have brought in.

Los Angeles signed veteran point guard Rajon Rondo and center JaVale McGee. That adds some veteran presence into the starting lineup and perhaps shorten the time period it takes to win.

One young building block expected to take a step forward this season is Brandon Ingram. The small forward who was the No. 2 pick in 2016 and averaged 16.1 points last season.

Lonzo Ball begins his second season as a backup to Rondo. Much to his psychopathic daddy's chagrin.

Trail Blazers Have Become Perennial Playoff Team

Portland finished 49-33 last season and look to get past the 50 win mark barrier this season.

Portland is looking to make the postseason for the sixth straight season. There still is a sense of regret over last season's poor showing. The New Orleans Pelicans recorded a four-game sweep of the Trail Blazers in the first round.

That was the biggest shock of the NBA playoffs and has to leave a bad taste in the mouth of the players and coaches.

Damian Lillard has averaged more than 25 points per game in three straight seasons. C.J. McCollum has topped 20 in three consecutive campaigns.

The Trail Blazers won last season's three meetings by an average of 3.7 points. This is not last years Lakers team so the jury is out.

SF Maurice Harkless (knee) is questionable for the opener.

PREDICTION: Trail Blazers 119, Lakers 111

NBA Betting Odds & Trends

Los Angeles Lakers
LA Lakers is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
LA Lakers is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Lakers's last 6 games
LA Lakers is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Lakers's last 5 games on the road
LA Lakers is 2-11 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Portland
LA Lakers is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Portland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Lakers's last 6 games when playing Portland
LA Lakers is 7-15-1 ATS in its last 23 games when playing on the road against Portland
LA Lakers is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Portland
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Lakers's last 5 games when playing on the road against Portland

Portland Trail Blazers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Portland's last 6 games when playing LA Lakers
Portland is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
Blazers are 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games
Portland is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Portland's last 6 games
Portland is 16-4-2 ATS in its last 22 games at home
Blazers are 2-3-2 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Portland is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games at home
Portland is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 games when playing LA Lakers
Blazers are 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing LA Lakers
Portland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against LA Lakers
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games when playing at home against LA Lakers

Next up:
Los Angeles home to Houston Saturday, October 20
Portland home to San Antonio Saturday, October 20

GTBets is home to 100% Cash Bonus, Free 1/2 Points in Football & Basketball, and Free Payouts!!!

Arizona State hosts Stanford in Pac-12 Tilt

Stanford Healthy For Arizona State

The Stanford Cardinal and the Arizona State Sun Devils meet on Thursday when they battle at Sun Devil Stadium. Both teams can't afford to lose another conference game, but especially the Sun Devils.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, ESPN. LINE: Stanford -2 and O/U: 57

An open date came at a good time for 24th-ranked Stanford. They expect to have running back Bryce Love in the starting lineup Thursday's night. Love missed Stanford's loss to Utah two weeks ago with a left ankle injury.

He is healthy and rested heading into the contest against the Sun Devils, who are also coming off a break in their schedule.

Love's return provides an immediate boost for the Cardinal. They opened the season with four straight wins before the defense fell apart. The unit allowed an average of 39 points in back-to-back losses to No. 4 Notre Dame and Utah.

Quarterback K.J. Costello threw for 381 yards against Utah.

Stanford has won five of its last six meetings against Arizona State. The Sun Devils needs an improved defensive effort after allowing an average of 227.3 rushing yards over the past four games.

Stanford Has to Win to Have Chance at Conference Title

Stanford is 4-2 overall and 2-1  in Pac-12 play. The can't afford a 2nd conference loss and make it to the Pac-12 Championship Game.

Love rushed for 301 yards and three touchdowns in last season's 34-24 victory over the Sun Devils. He was sorely missed in the 40-21 loss to Utah. Stanford was held to 42 rushing yards.

Kaden Smith, JJ Arcega-Whiteside and Trenton Irwin all topped 100 receiving yards in the loss. Costello committed three turnovers and has a 12-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio through six games.

Linebackers Bobby Okereke (team-high 43 tackles) and Joey Alfieri (3.5 sacks) lead the defense. The defense has allowed only seven passing touchdowns.

Stanford is 18-5 under Shaw when coming off a loss.

Sun Devils are Primed for the Upset

Arizona State is 3-3 overall and  1-2 in Pac-12 play.

Eno Benjamin set a single-game school rushing record with 312 yards against Oregon State. He finished with 120 yards and two touchdowns against Colorado.

The Sun Devils' explosive offense includes dynamic wide receiver N'Keal Harry, who has six touchdowns. Quarterback Manny Wilkins has thrown 11 touchdowns against one interception. He appears fully healthy following an apparent injury late in the Colorado game.

The Sun Devils have recorded only three interceptions this season. Cornerback Chase Lucas has one of those, along with 19 solo tackles. He struggled in the loss to Colorado.

Arizona State has had four of its six games decided by seven points or fewer.

The Sun Devils have committed only two turnovers this season.

PREDICTION: Arizona State 27, Stanford 24

NCAA Football Betting Odds & Trends

Stanford Cardinal
Cardinal are 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games
Stanford is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Stanford's last 9 games
Stanford is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Cardinal are 15-7 SU in its last 22 games on the road
Stanford is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Stanford's last 5 games on the road
Stanford is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Arizona State
Stanford is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Arizona State
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Stanford's last 6 games when playing Arizona State
Stanford is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona State
Stanford is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Arizona State
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Stanford's last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona State

Arizona State Sun Devils
Arizona State is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Arizona State's last 12 games
Arizona State is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Arizona State is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Arizona State's last 7 games at home
Arizona State is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Stanford
Arizona State is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Stanford
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona State's last 6 games when playing Stanford
Arizona State is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Stanford
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona State's last 5 games when playing at home against Stanford

 

Next up:
Stanford home to Washington State Saturday, October 27
Arizona State at USC Saturday, October 27

Get a 50% Signup Bonus up to $1,000 at BetOnline Sportsbook!!!

Thursday Night Football: Broncos vs Cardinals Preview and Pick

Broncos and Cardinals Try to Save Season

The Denver Broncos and the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday Night at University of Phoenix Stadium. Both teams went shopping in the offseason to fix their respective quarterback issues. They came away with a pair of players who spent last season with the Minnesota Vikings.

Neither move has panned out for the Cardinals and Broncos. We have a pair of teams who have a collective three wins entering Thursday's matchup at Arizona.

TV: 8:20 p.m. ET, FOX, NFL Network. LINE: Cardinals -1.. O/U: 42.

Denver has dropped four in a row since opening the season with a pair of narrow victories at home. Cardinals rookie quarterback Josh Rosen supplanted Sam Bradford as the starter in Week 3.

Broncos have Lost 4 Straight

Denver is 2-4 on the season and are getting into must win territory.

Denver has to tighten up against the run. They rank last in the league with an average of 161.3 yards permitted on the ground. The Broncos allowed a 200-yard rusher for the second straight week. It ended in a 23-20 loss to the unbeaten Los Angeles Rams.

The Broncos' pass rush did generate five sacks in the latest loss. Three of them were by rookie linebacker Bradley Chubb.

Case Keenum threw scoring passes to wide receivers Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas on Sunday. Yet he still has more interceptions (8) than TDs (7) through the first six games.

Rookie running backs Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman were held to a combined 40 yards on 13 carries last week.

Denver has won eight of the past nine meetings against the Cardinals.

Miller has 8.5 sacks and four forced fumbles in his last six games versus NFC opponents.

Cardinals Have to Play Better in All Aspects

The Cardinals have to win this week to have any chance at the playoffs. They have started the season 1-5 and a home win would be big for this team.

Arizona ranks last in the league in total yards (220.5) and rushing (64.0) under offensive coordinator Mike McCoy. He was fired by the Broncos during the 2017 season following a six-game slide.

Rosen did throw for a career-high 240 yards but failed to throw a touchdown pass in last week's 27-17 loss at Minnesota. Rosen connected with fellow rookie Christian Kirk six times for 77 yards against the Vikings.

Running back David Johnson has surpassed 55 yards rushing just once in six games despite scoring six touchdowns. The offensive woes are magnified by a defense that ranks 31st against the run by surrendering an average of 151.2 yards.

Johnson has had at least 100 yards from scrimmage in nine of his last 11 at home, scoring 13 TDs in that span.

PREDICTION: Broncos 23, Cardinals 20

NFL Betting Odds & Trends

Denver Broncos
Broncos are 1-6-1 ATS in its last 8 games
Denver is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games
Denver is 1-11 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
Denver is 1-11 SU in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Denver's last 6 games on the road
Denver is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Arizona
Denver is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 5 games when playing Arizona

Arizona Cardinals
Arizona is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games
Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Arizona is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona's last 5 games at home
Arizona is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Denver
Arizona is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Denver
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing Denver

 

Next up:
Denver at Kansas City Sunday, October 28
Arizona home to San Francisco Sunday, October 28

Get a 50% Signup Bonus up to $1,000 at BetOnline Sportsbook!!!

ALCS Game 5: Red Sox vs Astros Preview and Pick

Astros Look to Continue ALCS Down 3-1

The Houston Astros look to keep the Boston Red Sox from clinching a berth in the World Series tonight. It could be the first time since 2013 for the Red Sox to get the Series.

TV: 8:09 p.m. ET, TBS

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox LH David Price (0-1, 9.95 ERA) vs. Astros RH Justin Verlander (2-0, 3.18).

ODDS: The Astros are -185-moneyline favorites. The total is 8 Under -120.

Andrew Benintendi made a game-saving diving catch of Alex Bregman's liner to left field with the bases loaded for the final out of Wednesday's dramatic 8-6 triumph.

Jackie Bradley Jr. hit a go-ahead, two-run homer in the sixth inning of Game 4, giving him two blasts and nine RBIs over his last three games.

The Astros were hurt Wednesday by a controversial fan-interference call. It turned Jose Altuve's would-be two-run, first-inning homer to right field into an out. Boston's Mookie Betts reached above the fence to try and catch the ball.

Price and Verlander Head to Head in ALCS Game 5

Price warmed up during the final two innings of Game 4 but wasn't used. He draws the start in Game 5 after ace Chris Sale (stomach) was ruled out as a possibility on Wednesday.

Price is 0-9 in 11 career postseason starts following a no-decision in Game 2. He gave up four runs and five hits over 4 2/3 innings.

Sale tentatively is slated to start a potential Game 6 at home on Saturday.

Closer Craig Kimbrel recorded the first six-out save of his career on Wednesday but allowed one run, two hits and three walks while notching one strikeout.

Verlander defeated the Red Sox in Game 1. He gave up two runs and two hits over six innings. He stated he doesn't see an issue with facing a team a second time in a series, but he still will tinker with his game plan.

George Springer belted his first homer of the series in Game 4. He is a stellar 13-for-31 with four blasts in the team's seven postseason contests.

PREDICTION: Red Sox 7, Astros 4

ALCS Betting Odds & Trends

Boston Red Sox
Red Sox are 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Boston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Boston's last 13 games
Boston is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Boston's last 9 games on the road
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing Houston
Boston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston

Houston Astros
Houston is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games
Houston is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Houston is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 8 games at home
Houston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Boston
Houston is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Boston
Houston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Boston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing at home against Boston

 

Next up:
Boston home to Houston Saturday, October 20

Get a Signup Bonus of up to $1,000 at the Internets 1st and safest online sportsbook, Intertops

NBA on TNT: 76ers Host the Bulls in Early Game

76ers Look to Rebound After Celtics Loss

The Chicago Bulls and the Philadelphia 76ers will meet on Thursday at Wells Fargo Center. This will be the early game on TNT's national coverage. Tip0ff is set for 8 pm EST.

Oddsmakers opened the 76ers as -11.5-point favorites versus the Bulls, while the game's total opened at 215. The 76ers are now 12-point favorites. The total is all the way up to 220.

Philadelphia suffered a 105-87 loss to the Boston Celtics on Tuesday. They hope for a better showing against a Chicago team that missed the playoffs last season.

The 76ers fancy themselves as a top-flight contender in the Eastern Conference. They didn't look the part while giving a subpar effort on both ends of the court in their opener.

The Bulls are without forward Lauri Markkanen due to an elbow injury. Offseason acquisition Jabari Parker will begin the season as a reserve.

Bulls Have High Hopes for 2018-19

The Bulls were 27-55 last season and look to get a good bit better in a weaker Eastern Conference. Parker initially seemed miffed that he wasn't going to be the starting small forward. He feels healthy after recovering from the second ACL tear in his left knee in four NBA campaigns.

First-round pick Wendell Carter Jr. is in the starting lineup. Along with Bobby Portis, and the latter will be a restricted free agent after the season.

G Denzel Valentine (ankle) and F Cristiano Felicio (ankle) are questionable for the opener.

76ers Looked Bad in Opening Game

The 76ers are 0-1 on the young season. As bad as they looked against Boston there is no reason to panic for 76er fans.

Second-year guard Markelle Fultz made his first NBA start against Boston. He struggled the whole night. Fultz had five points on 2-of-7 shooting in 24 minutes. Fultz played in only 14 games last season due to physical and mental issues.

He was the No. 1 overall pick and Philadelphia plans to push his development early in the campaign.

The 76ers won two of last season's three meetings.

F Wilson Chandler (hamstring), G Jerryd Bayless (knee) and C Mike Muscala (ankle) are all expected to miss their second straight game.

PREDICTION: 76ers 101, Bulls 91

NBA Betting Odds & Trends

Chicago Bulls
Bulls are 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Chicago is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games
Chicago is 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games on the road
Bulls are 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Chicago is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Philadelphia
Chicago is 14-3 SU in its last 17 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Chicago's last 14 games when playing Philadelphia
Chicago is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Chicago is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Chicago's last 10 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia

Philadelphia 76ers
76ers are 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Philadelphia is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games
76ers are 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Philadelphia is 18-7 ATS in its last 25 games at home
76ers are 22-3 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Chicago
Philadelphia is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Philadelphia's last 14 games when playing Chicago
Philadelphia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Chicago
Philadelphia is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Philadelphia's last 10 games when playing at home against Chicago

Next up:
Chicago home to Detroit Saturday, October 20
Philadelphia home to Orlando Saturday, October 20

GTBets is home to 100% Cash Bonus, Free 1/2 Points in Football & Basketball, and Free Payouts!!!

Suns Host the Mavericks in ESPN Late Game

The Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns meet on Wednesday at Talking Stick Resort Arena. These two teams look to improve dramatically in 2018-19. Both teams have promising young talent.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS Southwest (Dallas), FS Arizona (Phoenix)

Odds: The Suns opened as -1.5-point favorites versus the Mavericks. Now the Mavericks are favored by 1-point. The game's total is still at 214.5.

Both teams have highly touted rookies making their NBA debuts on Wednesday. Phoenix center Deandre Ayton is expected to be an impact player after being the top pick of the draft.

The 7-foot-1 Ayton is viewed as the type of player who can turn around a struggling franchise's fortunes quickly.

Dallas is high on guard Luka Doncic. the third overall pick who was acquired from Atlanta in a draft-night trade. The Mavericks are coming off their worst season since going 20-62 in 1997-98.

Doncic was the EuroLeague MVP last season. He is one of the building pieces expected to help forge a turnaround.

Mavericks Will Improve as Season Progresses

Small forward Harrison Barnes will miss the opener due to a hamstring injury. The team's leading scorer (18.9 average) from last season should be back by early next week.

Franchise legend Dirk Nowitzki will miss the opener. He could be sidelined the rest of the month as he continues his recovery from left ankle surgery in April.

The 40-year-old Nowitzki is the sixth-leading scorer in NBA history with 31,187 points but he will be a reserve once he is healthy.

New center DeAndre Jordan posted more than 40 double-doubles in each of the past five seasons.

The Mavericks were 24-58 last season.

Suns Look for Quick Turnaround

Standout shooting guard Devin Booker has been cleared to play in the opener. He has been sidelined the past five weeks due to undergoing surgery on his broken right hand.

"Devin is doing great," first-year Phoenix coach Igor Kokoskov told reporters while revealing Booker was ready.

Booker averaged 24.9 points last season while being limited to 54 games due to injury. He received a five-year, $158 million extension during the offseason.

The Suns went 3-0 against the Mavericks last season and won the past five meetings.

Phoenix agreed on a one-year deal with SG Jamal Crawford. The 18-year veteran who ranks fifth in NBA history with 2,153 3-point baskets.

PREDICTION: Mavericks 105, Suns 101

NBA Betting Odds & Trends

Dallas Mavericks
Mavs are 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Dallas is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games
Dallas is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Dallas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Dallas's last 6 games on the road
Dallas is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Phoenix
Dallas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Phoenix
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Dallas's last 9 games when playing Phoenix
Dallas is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Dallas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Dallas's last 9 games when playing on the road against Phoenix

Phoenix Suns
Suns are 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Phoenix is 2-17 SU in its last 19 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 5 games
Phoenix is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games at home
Phoenix is 1-14 SU in its last 15 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Phoenix's last 15 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Phoenix's last 6 games at home
Phoenix is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Phoenix's last 9 games when playing Dallas
Phoenix is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Dallas
Phoenix is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Phoenix's last 9 games when playing at home against Dallas

Next up:
Dallas home to Minnesota Saturday, October 20
Phoenix at Denver Saturday, October 20

GTBets is home to 100% Cash Bonus, Free 1/2 Points in Football & Basketball, and Free Payouts!!!

Rockets Host the Pelicans to open NBA Season

Rockets Add Pieced to Close Ground in Western Conference

The New Orleans Pelicans and the Houston Rockets will on Wednesday at Toyota Center. The Pelicans will look to start the year strong, but the Rockets hope the addition of a future Hall of Famer is what they need to keep up in the West.

Many experts believe the NBA team capable of putting an early end to the Golden State Warriors' dynasty, is the Houston Rockets. The Rockets finished with the best record in the NBA during the 2017-18 season.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS New Orleans, AT&T Sportsnet Southwest (Houston)

Odds: Houston is an 8-point favorite. The total is currently at 232.

The Rockets also took the Warriors to seven games in the Western Conference finals. Houston added Carmelo Anthony to the All-Star duo of James Harden and Chris Paul over the offseason. They are hoping the former star thrives in a reduced role.

The Pelicans lost to the Warriors in the Western Conference semifinals last season. They are looking to take their own step forward behind star Anthony Davis. Davis is easily one of the top few players in the league.

Pelicans Have to Find Offensive Help for Davis

The Pelicans finished 48-34 last season. New Orleans' annual challenge is finding enough support offensively and defensively for Davis. He shouldered a big load while averaging 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds and 2.6 blocks.

The star also show 53.4 percent from the floor last season.

The Pelicans added some defense and rebounding punch. They signed power forward Julius Randle to a two-year, $18 million deal. New Orleans is also expecting to take a step forward with Nikola Mirotic.

He averaged 14.6 points and 8.2 rebounds in 30 games with the team after being acquired from the Chicago Bulls last season.

Rockets Have to Contend

Houston was 65-17 last season. The Rockets also added small forward James Ennis, point guard Michael Carter-Williams and forward Marquese Chriss. The biggest move the team made in the offseason was signing center Clint Capela to a five-year, $90 million extension.

Capela averaged 13.9 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks while shooting 65.2 percent from the floor last season. He served as the team's defensive anchor. Ennis is expected to move into the starting small forward spot vacated by Trevor Ariza.

Ariza signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Phoenix Suns over the summer.

PREDICTION: Rockets 123, Pelicans 106

NBA Betting Odds & Trends

New Orleans Pelicans
Pelicans are 12-2 ATS in its last 14 games
New Orleans is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
Pelicans are 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
New Orleans is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Pelicans are 12-6 SU in its last 18 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games on the road
New Orleans is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Houston
New Orleans is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of New Orleans's last 23 games when playing Houston
New Orleans is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Houston
New Orleans is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Orleans's last 6 games when playing on the road against Houston

Houston Rockets
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games
Houston is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Houston is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 17 of Houston's last 24 games at home
Houston is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New Orleans
Houston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of Houston's last 23 games when playing New Orleans
Houston is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games when playing at home against New Orleans

Next up:
New Orleans home to Sacramento Friday, October 19
Houston at Los Angeles Saturday, October 20

GTBets is home to 100% Cash Bonus, Free 1/2 Points in Football & Basketball, and Free Payouts!!!

ALCS Game 4: Red Sox vs Astros Preview and Pick

Red Sox Look for Commanding Lead in ALCS

The Houston Astros are in MUST WIN territory in the ALCS. The Boston Red Sox stunned the Houston Astros and their fans in Minute Maid Park Tuesday night in an 8-2 route of the defending World Series Champions.

Jumping out to a two-run lead in the first inning, Boston never looked back. They sealed the deal in the eighth after putting up a five-spot on Roberto Osuna. With that victory, all of the pressure is back on Houston to tie the series in Game 4.

TV: 8:39 p.m. ET, TBS

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox RH Rick Porcello (1-0, 1.35 ERA) vs. Astros RH Charlie Morton (regular season: 15-3, 3.13)

Odds: Astros are -150-moneyline favorites. The total is 8.5 Under -125.

After dropping Game 1 of the ALCS at home and learning of Ace Chris Sale’s debilitating stomach illness, Boston fans feared the worst. Jackie Bradley Jr. powered the Red Sox with a bases-loaded double in Game 2. It secured a lead that they would not relinquish.

Bradley Jr. was at it again in Game 3. This time the center fielder cleared the bases with a grand slam and put the game out of reach for good.

Houston will need to find a way to stop Bradley Jr. in Game 4. Their league-best pitching staff (3.11 ERA) is already challenged by keeping MVP candidates Mookie Betts and JD Martinez at bay.

The addition of Bradley Jr. makes Boston virtually impossible to shut down entirely.

Game 4 of ALCS Should be a Quality Matchup

Porcello was a 17-game winner in the regular season. He struck out two in a scoreless inning of relief in Game 2 of this series. He won his lone start of the AL Division Series.

Porcello gave up one run and four hits over five innings against the Yankees and he said he has adjusted to the dual role.

Morton posted career highs for victories and strikeouts (201) during the regular season. This will be his first appearance of the postseason. He has pitched just four innings over the last month.

His last outing being a three-inning stint against the Baltimore Orioles on Sept. 30.

Red Sox LHP Chris Sale (stomach) rejoined the team and will throw a bullpen session Wednesday. The team will then decide whether or not he will start Thursday's Game 5.

Houston 2B Jose Altuve (knee) served as the DH in Game 3 and Hinch is leaning toward keeping him in that role in Game 4.

Boston DH J.D. Martinez had a run-scoring double in Game 3, his lone hit in 11 at-bats in the series.

PREDICTION: Astros 6, Red Sox 5

ALCS Betting Odds & Trends

Boston Red Sox
Red Sox are 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Boston's last 12 games
Boston is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Boston is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Boston's last 8 games on the road
Boston is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Boston's last 9 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Boston's last 8 games when playing on the road against Houston

Houston Astros
Astros are 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Houston is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games
Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Houston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 7 games at home
Houston is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Houston's last 9 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Houston's last 8 games when playing at home against Boston

Get your MLB odds at Bovada today.

NLCS Game 5: Brewers vs Dodgers Preview and Pick

Kershaw on the Hill of Dodgers in NLCS Game 5

This NLCS has lived up to its billing. After two exciting games in the Cream City, we know this for certain: There will be a Game 5 in the National League Championship Series.

TV: 5:05 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1

PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers LH Wade Miley (0-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. Dodgers LH Clayton Kershaw (1-1, 3.27)

Odds: Dodgers are -185-moneyline favorites. The total is at 7 Under -120.

Clayton Kershaw takes to mound as the Dodgers try to seize the lead in the NLCS.

Game 4 of NLCS was an Instant Classic

Cody Bellinger ended a five hour-plus marathon with an RBI single in the bottom of the 13th Tuesday night. The Dodgers earned a 2-1 victory in Game 4 to even the series at two games apiece.

Bellinger had two hits in Game 4 after going 1-for-21 in the first seven contests during the postseason. Manny Machado scored the winning run after extending his hitting streak to five games (8-for-22).

Kershaw attempts to rebound from a rough outing in Game 1. He will face fellow left-hander Wade Miley. Miley has yet to allow a run in the postseason as Milwaukee looks to recover from its second loss in seven playoff contests.

The Brewers managed eight hits in the Game 4 loss. Ryan Braun had three of them while leadoff batter Lorenzo Cain went 0-for-6 with three strikeouts. National League MVP candidate Christian Yelich was 1-for-5 with a walk.

Milwaukee shortstop Orlando Arcia boasts three homers in the playoffs. That is only after launching three in 119 games during the regular season. He also went 1-for-5 with a run scored in Game 4.

Game 5 Looks Like a Classic on Paper

Miley has given the Brewers a chance to win with two solid performances in the postseason. He has yielded five hits and one walk over 10 1/3 innings without a decision.

Miley was 5-2 in 16 starts for Milwaukee in the regular season. He struck out three across 5 2/3 innings Saturday in Game 2 and left with a two-run lead. The Dodgers rallied to win 4-3.

Matt Kemp has two homers and Yasiel Puig is 6-of-17 with a blast and six walks versus Miley. The southpaw had a 2.50 ERA on the road during the regular season.

Kershaw was brilliant in his first outing during the playoffs. He allowed two hits over eight scoreless innings to beat Atlanta on Oct. 5. The lefty struggled in his Game 1 start at Milwaukee.

Kershaw yielded five runs (four earned) on six hits and two walks across three innings to take the loss Friday. The loss dropped him to 8-8 in the postseason.

Pitcher Brandon Woodruff took Kershaw deep. Cain recorded two hits against the three-time Cy Young winner in Game 1.

This and That with NLCS Pick

Milwaukee Cs Erik Kratz and Manny Pina are 9-for-23 combined with three runs and two RBI's in the playoffs.

Los Angeles 2B Brian Dozier got the start in Game 4. He knocked in the first run with a single.

The Brewers starting pitchers have allowed two earned runs over 26 2/3 innings in the NLCS. This includes the on LHP Gio Gonzalez gave up one Tuesday.

PREDICTION: Dodgers 5, Brewers 2

NLCS Betting Odds & Trends

Milwaukee Brewers
Brewers are 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Milwaukee is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Milwaukee's last 8 games
Milwaukee is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Milwaukee is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 5 games on the road
Milwaukee is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing LA Dodgers
Milwaukee is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Milwaukee's last 15 games when playing LA Dodgers
Milwaukee is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Milwaukee's last 10 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers
LA Dodgers is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Dodgers are 9-3 SU in its last 12 games
LA Dodgers is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Dodgers are 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Dodgers's last 5 games at home
LA Dodgers is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Milwaukee
LA Dodgers is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of LA Dodgers's last 15 games when playing Milwaukee
LA Dodgers is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of LA Dodgers's last 10 games when playing at home against Milwaukee

Get your MLB odds at Bovada today.