Three plays on tomorrow's outstanding slate of college basketball games.
Indiana -1 (at NC State)
Indiana/NC State u150
Indiana are a very solid defensive team. NC State I do not rate overly highly, though I do admit I've been a little surprised at some of their solid performances. I expect Indiana to dictate tempo and shut down NC State. Low scoring, and a 5-6 point win for Indy.
Virginia Tech +2.5 (at Minnesota)
Minnesota are at home and should be tough to beat, but the loss of Trevor Mbakwe is far too big to ignore. Virgnia Tech have been travelling along nicely, and that performance v Syrcause in New York was very good.
Big plays all around.
Wednesday 30 November 2011
Tuesday 29 November 2011
NHL - 30 November 2011
Back with an early play for the NHL tomorrow, hopefully we might do a little better than today
The Atlantic Division battle between the Rangers and the Penguins at MSG is pivotal for the top spot and with both teams in great form it is tough to find a winner. But with an amazing $4 on offer for Pittsburgh to win by two goals or more we are taking a play on them at -1.5
$4 is huge for any team but for the team with the best record in the league it is just too hard to ignore
Pittsburgh -1.5 @ $4 (sportingbet)
Follow me on twitter for further thoughts and plays
@mal68au
Winnipeg/Ottawa under 6 @ $1.92 (Sportsbet) six is always a big total so seeing some value here
Calgary -1.5 @ $3.60 (Sportsbet) yep another puckline
The Atlantic Division battle between the Rangers and the Penguins at MSG is pivotal for the top spot and with both teams in great form it is tough to find a winner. But with an amazing $4 on offer for Pittsburgh to win by two goals or more we are taking a play on them at -1.5
$4 is huge for any team but for the team with the best record in the league it is just too hard to ignore
Pittsburgh -1.5 @ $4 (sportingbet)
Follow me on twitter for further thoughts and plays
@mal68au
EDIT: A couple more plays added this morning for the action today
Winnipeg/Ottawa under 6 @ $1.92 (Sportsbet) six is always a big total so seeing some value here
Calgary -1.5 @ $3.60 (Sportsbet) yep another puckline
NHL - 29 November 2011
Our man @Mal68au is back on board and has a nice slate of games for us today.
SAN JOSE @ LOS ANGELES
San Jose ML @ $1.94
NASHVILLE @ EDMONTON
Edmonton ML @ $1.99
Total o5 @ $1.83
@Mal68au
SAN JOSE @ LOS ANGELES
San Jose ML @ $1.94
NASHVILLE @ EDMONTON
Edmonton ML @ $1.99
Total o5 @ $1.83
@Mal68au
Monday 28 November 2011
NCAA Basketball - Big Sky Preview
A brief preview on one of the "lesser" conferences.
Big Sky Conference
No doubt Weber State and Montana are the only two with any real chance of winning the Big Sky tourney this year. Both teams return four starters each in a year where most other teams are in some version of rebuilding.
I have Weber State just on top of Montana but it will come down to the wire come conference tourney time. Weber currently have a 4-0 record, with Utah State as their big scalp already collected. The Wildcats are led by Big Sky Player of the Year candidate Damian Lillard (23 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 3.3 apg) and senior forward Kyle Bullinger (10.3 ppg, 11.0 rpg).
The huge benefit the Wildcats have is a very well developed team after Lillard was injured for much of last year - this gave others time to develop into key roles.
Montana are currently 4-2 and have the big scalp of the much hyped Long Beach State 49ers last week. They're led by the surprising forward Kareem Jamar (14.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 3.7 apg), forward Derek Selvig (6 ppg, 6.5 rpg) and point guard Will Cherry (16.7 ppg).
Next in line...
Portland State - plenty to offer and a potential dark horse
Eastern Washington - fairly decent team
Northern Colorado - Won last year, won't win this year.
Northern Arizona - balanced but not overly great
Sacramento State - pretty bad.
Idaho State - horrible. But they do have a 7'4" guy...
Big Sky Conference
No doubt Weber State and Montana are the only two with any real chance of winning the Big Sky tourney this year. Both teams return four starters each in a year where most other teams are in some version of rebuilding.
I have Weber State just on top of Montana but it will come down to the wire come conference tourney time. Weber currently have a 4-0 record, with Utah State as their big scalp already collected. The Wildcats are led by Big Sky Player of the Year candidate Damian Lillard (23 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 3.3 apg) and senior forward Kyle Bullinger (10.3 ppg, 11.0 rpg).
The huge benefit the Wildcats have is a very well developed team after Lillard was injured for much of last year - this gave others time to develop into key roles.
Montana are currently 4-2 and have the big scalp of the much hyped Long Beach State 49ers last week. They're led by the surprising forward Kareem Jamar (14.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 3.7 apg), forward Derek Selvig (6 ppg, 6.5 rpg) and point guard Will Cherry (16.7 ppg).
Next in line...
Portland State - plenty to offer and a potential dark horse
Eastern Washington - fairly decent team
Northern Colorado - Won last year, won't win this year.
Northern Arizona - balanced but not overly great
Sacramento State - pretty bad.
Idaho State - horrible. But they do have a 7'4" guy...
NCAA Basketball - 29 November 2011
One play to follow on from today's great "tweeted only" plays
Xavier +4
Keep following @mal68au @wiggum7534 & @AusSportsGuys for any tweeted plays. Particularly keen to see where we end up in the Louisville/Long Beach State game...
Xavier +4
Keep following @mal68au @wiggum7534 & @AusSportsGuys for any tweeted plays. Particularly keen to see where we end up in the Louisville/Long Beach State game...
Saturday 26 November 2011
Scottish Premier League - Week 16 Preview
Play of the Day
Celtic v St Mirren (under 2.5 goals @ $2.25)
A "load up" play...
Other games
Dunfermline v Aberdeen (Draw @ $3.25)
Hearts v Inverness CT (Draw @ $3.40)
Motherwell v Dundee Utd (Motherwell @ $2.10)
St Johnstone v Hibs (St Johnstone @ $2)
Kilmarnock v Rangers (Rangers @ $1.46)
Celtic v St Mirren (under 2.5 goals @ $2.25)
A "load up" play...
Other games
Dunfermline v Aberdeen (Draw @ $3.25)
Hearts v Inverness CT (Draw @ $3.40)
Motherwell v Dundee Utd (Motherwell @ $2.10)
St Johnstone v Hibs (St Johnstone @ $2)
Kilmarnock v Rangers (Rangers @ $1.46)
Friday 25 November 2011
College Basketball - 25 November 2011
Today's sole play (at this stage)
Cal Riverside v Villanova - under 129
Check Twitter for further updates @AusSportsGuys @wiggum7534 @mal68au
Cal Riverside v Villanova - under 129
Check Twitter for further updates @AusSportsGuys @wiggum7534 @mal68au
Thursday 24 November 2011
College Basketball - 24 November 2011
A few plays today.
San Diego State +7 (v Arizona)
Rutgers -1.5 (v Richmond)
Memphis ML (v Georgetown)
Good luck!
San Diego State +7 (v Arizona)
Rutgers -1.5 (v Richmond)
Memphis ML (v Georgetown)
Good luck!
Wednesday 23 November 2011
SPL Midweek - Celtic v Dunfermline 23 November 2011
Celtic v Dunfermline
Celtic 1st half winner @ $1.50 (Sportsbet)
@Wiggum7534
Celtic 1st half winner @ $1.50 (Sportsbet)
@Wiggum7534
NCAA Basketball Preview - BIG 10 Preview (@Wiggum7534)
NCAA Basketball – Big Ten Preview
I love Big Ten basketball. While incredibly weakened this year, due to major losses at Ohio St, Wisconsin & Purdue amongst others, I do still believe the Big 10 will have a significant number of teams in the tourney come March.
Ohio State is clearly the best Big Ten team and, for mine, third best in the nation. The highly sought after Jared Sullinger returns, as does point guard Aaron Craft and William Buford. In addition to this, Ohio State have a very solid overall team, capable of producing good results defensively as well as offensively.
Sullinger is the star of the Buckeyes and has, seemingly, improved his physical appearance from last season. A national player of the year candidate, Sullinger will look to lead the Buckeyes to not only a Big Ten championship, but also deep into the NCAA tourney.
The team most likely to challenge the Buckeyes for the Big Ten, though will fall short, is Wisconsin. Wisconsin ALWAYS wins at home. That is a guarantee. While they have had significant losses, in many ways they are better placed to advance come March. Jordan Taylor is an All-American first team candidate while Gasser & Bruesewitz provide composure, effort and reliability to assist the Badgers deep into the post-season.
From here it is a touch blurry. In order, however, I have ranked the teams in the following order:
Michigan – A team so inconsistent I am afraid to bet them, or bet against them.
Michigan State – Get the feeling they may “underachieve” again
Minnesota – HUGE Trevor Mbakwe fan – this guy is the real deal! Pity he plays with such unintelligent basketballers (yes, I’m talking to you Ralph Sampson the four-hundred and third)
Purdue – Robbie Hummel SHOULD come close in first team All-American duties. An absolute star
Iowa
Nebraska
Northwestern
Illinois
Indiana
Penn State – Definitely far below the rest of the competition
I love Big Ten basketball. While incredibly weakened this year, due to major losses at Ohio St, Wisconsin & Purdue amongst others, I do still believe the Big 10 will have a significant number of teams in the tourney come March.
Ohio State is clearly the best Big Ten team and, for mine, third best in the nation. The highly sought after Jared Sullinger returns, as does point guard Aaron Craft and William Buford. In addition to this, Ohio State have a very solid overall team, capable of producing good results defensively as well as offensively.
Sullinger is the star of the Buckeyes and has, seemingly, improved his physical appearance from last season. A national player of the year candidate, Sullinger will look to lead the Buckeyes to not only a Big Ten championship, but also deep into the NCAA tourney.
The team most likely to challenge the Buckeyes for the Big Ten, though will fall short, is Wisconsin. Wisconsin ALWAYS wins at home. That is a guarantee. While they have had significant losses, in many ways they are better placed to advance come March. Jordan Taylor is an All-American first team candidate while Gasser & Bruesewitz provide composure, effort and reliability to assist the Badgers deep into the post-season.
From here it is a touch blurry. In order, however, I have ranked the teams in the following order:
Michigan – A team so inconsistent I am afraid to bet them, or bet against them.
Michigan State – Get the feeling they may “underachieve” again
Minnesota – HUGE Trevor Mbakwe fan – this guy is the real deal! Pity he plays with such unintelligent basketballers (yes, I’m talking to you Ralph Sampson the four-hundred and third)
Purdue – Robbie Hummel SHOULD come close in first team All-American duties. An absolute star
Iowa
Nebraska
Northwestern
Illinois
Indiana
Penn State – Definitely far below the rest of the competition
NCAA Basketball Preview - ACC Preview (@Wiggum7534)
NCAA Basketball – ACC Preview
Over the past few years, the ACC has without doubt weakened significantly. However, that is not to say the conference will offer little this year. Without doubt North Carolina will be incredibly hard to beat come March, and you know Duke will always be thereabouts thanks to the brilliant coaching of Coach K. But who else is likely to life and/or make the tournament come March?
The best of the rest for mine is Virginia Tech, closely from Virginia and Florida State. They may be the only tournament teams. If the ACC (like other big conferences) didn’t get preferential treatment come tourney time, you could legitimately only see 4 ACC teams in the tourney. But, like the Big East, we know there are certain biases toward the bigger conferences.
Anyway, enough of a rant, here is my order of finish…
North Carolina – Without doubt the best team in the ACC. Returning all five starters including projected lottery pick Harrison Barnes. For mine, the most crucial player in this team is Kendall Marshall. An outstanding point guard who is so very solid, possesses outstanding smarts and efficient passing. If UNC are going to be cutting down the nets come April, this guy will be a key reason.
Duke – The only team able to challenge UNC, but I don’t even see that possible. Duke do return three starters, but the losses are too great. Austin Rivers should have a good year, and Duke’s backcourt is pretty decent - Duke’s problem is without doubt their frontcourt. If Duke are really going to rely on those Plumlee’s for consistent big man play…heaven help them. HOWEVER, Coach K is far better than UNC coach Williams – therefore, IF Duke have any chance of an ACC title, it is all down to coaching…
Virginia Tech – I have VT a fair way off Duke at this stage, and I don’t think many CBB previews rate them highly, but I do like the Hokies in an otherwise sub-par ACC this year. Injuries were very unkind to the Hokies last season, but that provided some lesser players to get experience. Big fan of Erick Green (PG), plus they’ve signed quality freshman in Marquis Rankin, CJ Barksdale and Robert Brown. Excited on their prospects this year.
Virginia – Another team I rank higher than expected. Virginia return two top quality players for mine in Mike Scott and Assane Sene. They also had their first winning season last year since 2007-08. A lot to look forward to!
Florida State – Overrated for mine. Do have some quality but not top 25. Lookout for Michael Snaer to have a solid season.
Miami (Fl)
NC State – Think these guys are a touch overrated
Wake Forest
Maryland
Clemson
Georgia Tech
Boston College
Over the past few years, the ACC has without doubt weakened significantly. However, that is not to say the conference will offer little this year. Without doubt North Carolina will be incredibly hard to beat come March, and you know Duke will always be thereabouts thanks to the brilliant coaching of Coach K. But who else is likely to life and/or make the tournament come March?
The best of the rest for mine is Virginia Tech, closely from Virginia and Florida State. They may be the only tournament teams. If the ACC (like other big conferences) didn’t get preferential treatment come tourney time, you could legitimately only see 4 ACC teams in the tourney. But, like the Big East, we know there are certain biases toward the bigger conferences.
Anyway, enough of a rant, here is my order of finish…
North Carolina – Without doubt the best team in the ACC. Returning all five starters including projected lottery pick Harrison Barnes. For mine, the most crucial player in this team is Kendall Marshall. An outstanding point guard who is so very solid, possesses outstanding smarts and efficient passing. If UNC are going to be cutting down the nets come April, this guy will be a key reason.
Duke – The only team able to challenge UNC, but I don’t even see that possible. Duke do return three starters, but the losses are too great. Austin Rivers should have a good year, and Duke’s backcourt is pretty decent - Duke’s problem is without doubt their frontcourt. If Duke are really going to rely on those Plumlee’s for consistent big man play…heaven help them. HOWEVER, Coach K is far better than UNC coach Williams – therefore, IF Duke have any chance of an ACC title, it is all down to coaching…
Virginia Tech – I have VT a fair way off Duke at this stage, and I don’t think many CBB previews rate them highly, but I do like the Hokies in an otherwise sub-par ACC this year. Injuries were very unkind to the Hokies last season, but that provided some lesser players to get experience. Big fan of Erick Green (PG), plus they’ve signed quality freshman in Marquis Rankin, CJ Barksdale and Robert Brown. Excited on their prospects this year.
Virginia – Another team I rank higher than expected. Virginia return two top quality players for mine in Mike Scott and Assane Sene. They also had their first winning season last year since 2007-08. A lot to look forward to!
Florida State – Overrated for mine. Do have some quality but not top 25. Lookout for Michael Snaer to have a solid season.
Miami (Fl)
NC State – Think these guys are a touch overrated
Wake Forest
Maryland
Clemson
Georgia Tech
Boston College
Friday 18 November 2011
Scottish Premier League - Week 15 Preview
Scottish Premier League – Week 15 Preview
Brief one this week, fresh off another international break.
Best Bet!
Aberdeen v Motherwell (Motherwell @ $2.75) – Good value for the Motherwell win. Aberdeen have improved of late, but the addition of Stephen Hughes to Motherwell, plus their impressive away record makes this the best of the weekend!
Other Games
Dundee United v Hearts (Draw @ $3.20)
Hibs v Kilmarnock (Draw @ $3.20)
Inverness CT v Celtic (Celtic @ $1.40)
Rangers v St Johnstone (Rangers HT/FT @ $1.65)
St Mirren v Dunfermline (St Mirren @ $1.71 , Draw @ $3.40)
@Wiggum7534
Brief one this week, fresh off another international break.
Best Bet!
Aberdeen v Motherwell (Motherwell @ $2.75) – Good value for the Motherwell win. Aberdeen have improved of late, but the addition of Stephen Hughes to Motherwell, plus their impressive away record makes this the best of the weekend!
Other Games
Dundee United v Hearts (Draw @ $3.20)
Hibs v Kilmarnock (Draw @ $3.20)
Inverness CT v Celtic (Celtic @ $1.40)
Rangers v St Johnstone (Rangers HT/FT @ $1.65)
St Mirren v Dunfermline (St Mirren @ $1.71 , Draw @ $3.40)
@Wiggum7534
Wednesday 16 November 2011
College Basketball - 16 November 2011
BELMONT @ MEMPHIS
Belmont +4.5
AUSTIN PEAY @ CALIFORNIA
California -12.5
FLORIDA @ OHIO STATE
Florida +10.5
BROWN @ MANHATTAN
Total o139
Belmont +4.5
AUSTIN PEAY @ CALIFORNIA
California -12.5
FLORIDA @ OHIO STATE
Florida +10.5
BROWN @ MANHATTAN
Total o139
Tuesday 15 November 2011
NBA Lock-out - Yes, another rant (@Wiggum7534)
NBA Lock-out – Yes, another rant
So. The NBA lockout continues.
Without doubt I am on the side of the owners. No, I am not a fan of rich white dudes that get richer and richer while the poor get poorer and poorer. But, they are the ones with the money. They are the ones with the teams. Therefore, they are the ones that create the rules. In a capitalist society that’s how it goes homey.
An NBA basketballer is paid an incredible amount of money for doing...what? Playing a game? This is absolutely absurd for a person who plays a game they love to get paid the sorts of sums they get paid.
Superstars are entitled to big wages, but so many of these middle-tier players are getting ridiculous amounts for effectively not being overly effective. Yes, the GMs sign them to these ridiculous contracts and are, without doubt, the ones to blame in that regard, but the players are the ones that obviously do not realise what an incredibly good wicket they are already on.
Let’s look at a couple of examples of these ridiculous wages.
Andrew Bynum - $15m
Al Jefferson – $14m
Andre Iguodala - $13.5m
Gilbert Arenas - $19m!!!! (you kidding me?)
Rashard Lewis - $22m!!! (good god)
Kobe is on $25m! Even that is ridiculous!!!!
How many other trades in the world are there where people can get paid ridiculous sums of money for doing what they absolutely love?
If the NBA ballers think they need more money then they really should try to get the same amount of money elsewhere. I assume Europe is probably the place to go for money but they ain’t on anywhere near the money offered to NBA players. So let them try to ply their trade elsewhere. Who needs em?
One of the common arguments made by the absolute hacks of Billy Hunter and the overrated Derek Fisher (yes I know, it is bit part players like you that are the problem!) is that the lifespan of an NBA basketballer is around 4 or 5 years and this is why they are entitled to such a huge wage. If that is the case, then obviously the basketballer is a pretty ordinary player. Furthermore, what stops an ex-basketballer getting a normal job like the rest of the world?
95%+ NBA basketballers have ventured through a top shelf American university without having to have paid a dime. This is preferential treatment. Why exit after one year chasing big bucks? Why not actually do the four years of college, get an education that you are privileged enough to be offered, and do something with your life AFTER basketball?
Why should you be entitled to millions of dollars for the rest of your life purely for “working” for 4 or 5 years?
Absolutely pathetic. I am very sure there are millions of people out there who would give anything to get a fully paid luxurious education at one of America’s top universities. This one-and-done rule only proves how incredibly stupid these people are given the opportunities they have been handed – purely because they can play basketball.
YOU ARE GIVEN A FREE EDUCATION WHERE YOU CAN STUDY ANYTHING YOU WANT. FOR FREE! NO STRINGS ATTACHED, OH EXCEPT PLAYING THE GAME YOU LOVE!
Absolutely absurd. All the while, REAL workers of the world (such as those that work with at arenas or work for the organisations) are losing jobs or being forced to take severe paycuts.
Absolutely ridiculous. The NBA players completely take for granted the fact that the fans like their game. That fans will buy $200 shoes, $100 jerseys etc. This won’t happen forever. I would absolutely love a wicked backlash against the NBA and its players.
Absolutely appalling.
Done.
@Wiggum7534
So. The NBA lockout continues.
Without doubt I am on the side of the owners. No, I am not a fan of rich white dudes that get richer and richer while the poor get poorer and poorer. But, they are the ones with the money. They are the ones with the teams. Therefore, they are the ones that create the rules. In a capitalist society that’s how it goes homey.
An NBA basketballer is paid an incredible amount of money for doing...what? Playing a game? This is absolutely absurd for a person who plays a game they love to get paid the sorts of sums they get paid.
Superstars are entitled to big wages, but so many of these middle-tier players are getting ridiculous amounts for effectively not being overly effective. Yes, the GMs sign them to these ridiculous contracts and are, without doubt, the ones to blame in that regard, but the players are the ones that obviously do not realise what an incredibly good wicket they are already on.
Let’s look at a couple of examples of these ridiculous wages.
Andrew Bynum - $15m
Al Jefferson – $14m
Andre Iguodala - $13.5m
Gilbert Arenas - $19m!!!! (you kidding me?)
Rashard Lewis - $22m!!! (good god)
Kobe is on $25m! Even that is ridiculous!!!!
How many other trades in the world are there where people can get paid ridiculous sums of money for doing what they absolutely love?
If the NBA ballers think they need more money then they really should try to get the same amount of money elsewhere. I assume Europe is probably the place to go for money but they ain’t on anywhere near the money offered to NBA players. So let them try to ply their trade elsewhere. Who needs em?
One of the common arguments made by the absolute hacks of Billy Hunter and the overrated Derek Fisher (yes I know, it is bit part players like you that are the problem!) is that the lifespan of an NBA basketballer is around 4 or 5 years and this is why they are entitled to such a huge wage. If that is the case, then obviously the basketballer is a pretty ordinary player. Furthermore, what stops an ex-basketballer getting a normal job like the rest of the world?
95%+ NBA basketballers have ventured through a top shelf American university without having to have paid a dime. This is preferential treatment. Why exit after one year chasing big bucks? Why not actually do the four years of college, get an education that you are privileged enough to be offered, and do something with your life AFTER basketball?
Why should you be entitled to millions of dollars for the rest of your life purely for “working” for 4 or 5 years?
Absolutely pathetic. I am very sure there are millions of people out there who would give anything to get a fully paid luxurious education at one of America’s top universities. This one-and-done rule only proves how incredibly stupid these people are given the opportunities they have been handed – purely because they can play basketball.
YOU ARE GIVEN A FREE EDUCATION WHERE YOU CAN STUDY ANYTHING YOU WANT. FOR FREE! NO STRINGS ATTACHED, OH EXCEPT PLAYING THE GAME YOU LOVE!
Absolutely absurd. All the while, REAL workers of the world (such as those that work with at arenas or work for the organisations) are losing jobs or being forced to take severe paycuts.
Absolutely ridiculous. The NBA players completely take for granted the fact that the fans like their game. That fans will buy $200 shoes, $100 jerseys etc. This won’t happen forever. I would absolutely love a wicked backlash against the NBA and its players.
Absolutely appalling.
Done.
@Wiggum7534
College Football - 15 November 2011
KANSAS STATE @ TEXAS
Kansas State +9 @ $1.92
CINCINNATI @ RUTGERS
Rutgers +3 @ $1.88
VIRGINIA @ FLORIDA STATE
Virginia +17 @ $1.92
WISCONSIN @ ILLINOIS
Wisconsin -14 @$1.91
Kansas State +9 @ $1.92
CINCINNATI @ RUTGERS
Rutgers +3 @ $1.88
VIRGINIA @ FLORIDA STATE
Virginia +17 @ $1.92
WISCONSIN @ ILLINOIS
Wisconsin -14 @$1.91
NFL Week 11
PHILADELPHIA @ NEW YORK GIANTS
New York -3 @ $1.87
BUFFALO @ MIAMI
Buffalo +1 @ $2.00
NEW YORK JETS @ DENVER
New York -4 @ $1.91
CINCINNATI @ BALTIMORE
Total u41
New York -3 @ $1.87
BUFFALO @ MIAMI
Buffalo +1 @ $2.00
NEW YORK JETS @ DENVER
New York -4 @ $1.91
CINCINNATI @ BALTIMORE
Total u41
Sunday 13 November 2011
Saturday 12 November 2011
College Basketaball - 12 November 2011 (Part 2)
One further late play was added -
CAL IRVINE @ CALIFORNIA
Total u151.5
CAL IRVINE @ CALIFORNIA
Total u151.5
College Basketaball - 12 November 2011
At this stage we have -
ARKANSAS LITTLE ROCK @ TULSA
Tulsa -13
ST JOSEPHS @ WESTERN KENTUCKY
St Josephs -3
COLUMBIA @ CONNECTICUT
Columbia +23
WESTERN CAROLINA @ SOUTH CAROLINA
Total o138
AUSTIN PEAY @ MIDDLE TENNESSEE ST
Total o143
TENNESSEE TECH @ MIAMI FL
Miami FL -10
May have one or two more on the way.
ARKANSAS LITTLE ROCK @ TULSA
Tulsa -13
ST JOSEPHS @ WESTERN KENTUCKY
St Josephs -3
COLUMBIA @ CONNECTICUT
Columbia +23
WESTERN CAROLINA @ SOUTH CAROLINA
Total o138
AUSTIN PEAY @ MIDDLE TENNESSEE ST
Total o143
TENNESSEE TECH @ MIAMI FL
Miami FL -10
May have one or two more on the way.
Friday 11 November 2011
College Basketball - Big East Preview
NCAA Basketball – Big East Preview
The first of the many conference previews.
There were many off-season stories relating to the Big East. One of the main stories was Syracuse and Pittsburgh’s decision to defect to the ACC (not this season though). The other, and more relevant to this season, was UConn’s incredible signing of the much sought after Andre Drummond.
The freshman has pushed UConn back into national champ conversations following the departure of Kemba Walker. Add to the that the return of the remaining four starters from last year’s championship team, with the continued development of Jeremy Lamb (top scorer in the U19 USA team this past summer), and UConn will have a team that more than qualifies for repeat conversations. No doubt they will be hard to beat, and are a top 10 (if not top 5) team, but I have found one better in the Big East.
Enter the Orange. Like UConn, Syracuse return 4 starters from the team that was eliminated in the third round of the NCAA Tournament. The loss of Rick Jackson will hurt (size is needed here) but the talent of Scoop Jardine (spent last summer impressively working on his game at various skills camps), Brandon Triche and Kris Joseph will outdo most teams. In addition, expect huge improvement from Fab Melo.
Next in line I rank Pittsburgh. Pitt did lose 3 starters which will hurt, but they have sufficient talent that will surely see themselves another dominant season. Ashton Gibbs is no doubt the star of this team, but a lot will be expect of Nair Robinson (hopefully fit for a full season) and big men Talib Zanna and Dante Taylor. Zanna is a high energy player who contributes all the intangibles. Taylor is the replacement centre who really needs to lift on previous seasons.
From here we go to Louisville. Generally not a massive fan of Pitino, and DEFINITELY not a fan at all of Peyton Siva (the starting PG who has cost me before!). Having said that, they have a pretty talented squad with a lot of balance. Kyle Kuric is a solid player, Chris Smith came on strong last season, Stephan van Treese is intelligent and a tireless worker, Jared Swopshire is a potential star who was injured last season. Louisville definitely have the potential to be very good…whether Pitino lets them however…
Next in order (with brief comment) I ranked
Cincinnati – Three starters return, impressive defensive minded coach, solid overall squad.
Georgetown/Villanova – Have these teams even. Hoyas return only two starters (losing two very key pieces) but have talent. Nova also only return two, but have talent especially in the backcourt with Maalik Wayns and Dominic Cheek. Also return Mouphtaou Yarou, a solid solid centre. Will be good. (I always have a soft spot for Nova!)
Notre Dame – Too much lost with Hansborough/Nash/Scott leaving.
Rutgers – Outstanding coach (Mike Rice) will have them ready. Very impressed.
West Virginia – Return four starters, add six freshman. Rebuilding and decent, but no star team.
St Johns – Nine new players, Nurideen Lindsey will be a star, too much rebuilding to be done.
Seton Hall – Super young team, lost two stars, will struggle to replace, lack depth.
South Florida – Have a star in Augustus Gilchrist, and balance elsewhere, but not a good enough squad.
DePaul – Four starters returning but definitely rebuilding, not an overly talented squad.
Providence – Very ordinary.
That’s it for the preview. Bring on season 2011-12!!!!!
@Wiggum7534
The first of the many conference previews.
There were many off-season stories relating to the Big East. One of the main stories was Syracuse and Pittsburgh’s decision to defect to the ACC (not this season though). The other, and more relevant to this season, was UConn’s incredible signing of the much sought after Andre Drummond.
The freshman has pushed UConn back into national champ conversations following the departure of Kemba Walker. Add to the that the return of the remaining four starters from last year’s championship team, with the continued development of Jeremy Lamb (top scorer in the U19 USA team this past summer), and UConn will have a team that more than qualifies for repeat conversations. No doubt they will be hard to beat, and are a top 10 (if not top 5) team, but I have found one better in the Big East.
Enter the Orange. Like UConn, Syracuse return 4 starters from the team that was eliminated in the third round of the NCAA Tournament. The loss of Rick Jackson will hurt (size is needed here) but the talent of Scoop Jardine (spent last summer impressively working on his game at various skills camps), Brandon Triche and Kris Joseph will outdo most teams. In addition, expect huge improvement from Fab Melo.
Next in line I rank Pittsburgh. Pitt did lose 3 starters which will hurt, but they have sufficient talent that will surely see themselves another dominant season. Ashton Gibbs is no doubt the star of this team, but a lot will be expect of Nair Robinson (hopefully fit for a full season) and big men Talib Zanna and Dante Taylor. Zanna is a high energy player who contributes all the intangibles. Taylor is the replacement centre who really needs to lift on previous seasons.
From here we go to Louisville. Generally not a massive fan of Pitino, and DEFINITELY not a fan at all of Peyton Siva (the starting PG who has cost me before!). Having said that, they have a pretty talented squad with a lot of balance. Kyle Kuric is a solid player, Chris Smith came on strong last season, Stephan van Treese is intelligent and a tireless worker, Jared Swopshire is a potential star who was injured last season. Louisville definitely have the potential to be very good…whether Pitino lets them however…
Next in order (with brief comment) I ranked
Cincinnati – Three starters return, impressive defensive minded coach, solid overall squad.
Georgetown/Villanova – Have these teams even. Hoyas return only two starters (losing two very key pieces) but have talent. Nova also only return two, but have talent especially in the backcourt with Maalik Wayns and Dominic Cheek. Also return Mouphtaou Yarou, a solid solid centre. Will be good. (I always have a soft spot for Nova!)
Notre Dame – Too much lost with Hansborough/Nash/Scott leaving.
Rutgers – Outstanding coach (Mike Rice) will have them ready. Very impressed.
West Virginia – Return four starters, add six freshman. Rebuilding and decent, but no star team.
St Johns – Nine new players, Nurideen Lindsey will be a star, too much rebuilding to be done.
Seton Hall – Super young team, lost two stars, will struggle to replace, lack depth.
South Florida – Have a star in Augustus Gilchrist, and balance elsewhere, but not a good enough squad.
DePaul – Four starters returning but definitely rebuilding, not an overly talented squad.
Providence – Very ordinary.
That’s it for the preview. Bring on season 2011-12!!!!!
@Wiggum7534
NHL - 11 November 2011
HUGE card from @Mal68au today on the ice -
EDMONTON @ BOSTON
o5 @ $1.86
Boston -1.5 @ $.280
MINNESOTA @ SAN JOSE
San Jose @ $1.61
San Jose -1.5 @ $2.80
TORONTO @ ST LOUIS
St Louis -1.5 @ $3.00
NEW YORK ISLANDERS @ COLORADO
New York +1.5 @ $1.43
@Mal68au
EDMONTON @ BOSTON
o5 @ $1.86
Boston -1.5 @ $.280
MINNESOTA @ SAN JOSE
San Jose @ $1.61
San Jose -1.5 @ $2.80
TORONTO @ ST LOUIS
St Louis -1.5 @ $3.00
NEW YORK ISLANDERS @ COLORADO
New York +1.5 @ $1.43
@Mal68au
College Football - 11 November 2011
HOUSTON @ TULANE
Total o73.5
VIRGINIA TECH @ GEORGIA TECH
Virginia Tech pk
Total o73.5
VIRGINIA TECH @ GEORGIA TECH
Virginia Tech pk
Thursday 10 November 2011
College Basketball - 10 November 2011
LEHIGH @ ST JOHNS
St Johns -13
Total u150
DUQUESNE @ ARIZONA
Total o147.5
St Johns -13
Total u150
DUQUESNE @ ARIZONA
Total o147.5
Wednesday 9 November 2011
Tuesday 8 November 2011
College Football Early Week Plays
NEBRASKA @ PENN STATE
Nebraska -3 $1.96
WEST VIRGINIA @ CINCINNATI
Cincinatti -3 $1.88
Nebraska -3 $1.96
WEST VIRGINIA @ CINCINNATI
Cincinatti -3 $1.88
NFL Week 10 Early Plays
HOUSTON @ TAMPA BAY
Houston -3 $1.87
DENVER @ KANSAS CITY
Kansas City -3 $1.87
TENNESSEE @ CAROLINA
Tennessee +3.5 $1.87
Houston -3 $1.87
DENVER @ KANSAS CITY
Kansas City -3 $1.87
TENNESSEE @ CAROLINA
Tennessee +3.5 $1.87
NHL New York Islanders @ Boston Bruins 8 November 2011
Play on the ice from @Mal68au
NEW YORK ISLANDERS @ BOSTON BRUINS
Total o5 @ $1.80 (Sportsbet.com)
@Mal68au
NEW YORK ISLANDERS @ BOSTON BRUINS
Total o5 @ $1.80 (Sportsbet.com)
@Mal68au
Monday 7 November 2011
NCAA Basketball Preview - 7 November 2011 (@Wiggum7534)
NCAA Basketball Preview
FINALLY it is here. After what seemed to be the longest 7 months of my life, college basketball finally returns.
A lot has changed since UConn cut down the nets in Houston last April, with conference re-alignments the most prominent story (apart from the usual suspensions and NCAA enforced restrictions/fines). Over the coming days/weeks/months Aussie Sports Guys will endeavour to provide previews on some of the conferences as well as game previews, reviews, betting tips and much more.
North Carolina are the hot favourite this year, returning all 5 starters from the team that made their way to the Elite Eight, only to succumb to the stars of Kentucky. There is no doubt UNC will be hard to beat, but are they really the best team this coming season?
The polls would certainly suggest so. And I have to agree, but it will be tight.
UNC are definitely the team to beat. Very fortunate to be returning some of the best players in the nation, when some could very easily have left for the NBA (bet they are thankful they didn’t). The experience of their failure last year will definitely burn and they will strive to achieve the ultimate success this season.
Not many stand in their way for mine, but those that do are worthy rivals. Without different too much from the polls, I have Syracuse, UConn, Kentucky and Ohio State (in no particular order) as the most likely to challenge UNC.
The 2K Classic opens season 2011-12, and this year’s edition features some decent teams in Arizona (currently ranked 16th in the country), St Johns and Mississippi State. This coming Friday (Saturday AEST) there is some 126 games on order. Outstanding!!
In any case, follow @AusSportsGuys on Twitter if you’re keen to get some up-to-the-minute tips on the college basketball season. For now we have two plays. Not investing hugely as there is, obviously, some uncertainty surrounding many teams, but, we need to celebrate its return by having a punt all the same.
Valparaiso at Arizona
Am expecting a contest in this one. First game of the regular season, with both teams having lost notable talent.
Arizona have had a very poor pre-season, having lost to a division 2 side (Seattle Pacific) while almost succumbing to another (Humboldt State). Will take time for the new squad to blend. There has been talk of selfish play and egos. Not an ideal prep for the start of the regular season.
Valparaiso return only 2 starters, and have a new head coach. However, I expect them to push Arizona in this one, and the 14 points on offer is definitely worth a sampling.
Further, given the early stage of the season, am not expecting either side to annoy the scorers a massive amount, and the under 137.5 looks tasty.
Suggested Bets
Valparaiso +14
Under 137.5
Injuries – Kevin Parrom (Arizona)
FINALLY it is here. After what seemed to be the longest 7 months of my life, college basketball finally returns.
A lot has changed since UConn cut down the nets in Houston last April, with conference re-alignments the most prominent story (apart from the usual suspensions and NCAA enforced restrictions/fines). Over the coming days/weeks/months Aussie Sports Guys will endeavour to provide previews on some of the conferences as well as game previews, reviews, betting tips and much more.
North Carolina are the hot favourite this year, returning all 5 starters from the team that made their way to the Elite Eight, only to succumb to the stars of Kentucky. There is no doubt UNC will be hard to beat, but are they really the best team this coming season?
The polls would certainly suggest so. And I have to agree, but it will be tight.
UNC are definitely the team to beat. Very fortunate to be returning some of the best players in the nation, when some could very easily have left for the NBA (bet they are thankful they didn’t). The experience of their failure last year will definitely burn and they will strive to achieve the ultimate success this season.
Not many stand in their way for mine, but those that do are worthy rivals. Without different too much from the polls, I have Syracuse, UConn, Kentucky and Ohio State (in no particular order) as the most likely to challenge UNC.
The 2K Classic opens season 2011-12, and this year’s edition features some decent teams in Arizona (currently ranked 16th in the country), St Johns and Mississippi State. This coming Friday (Saturday AEST) there is some 126 games on order. Outstanding!!
In any case, follow @AusSportsGuys on Twitter if you’re keen to get some up-to-the-minute tips on the college basketball season. For now we have two plays. Not investing hugely as there is, obviously, some uncertainty surrounding many teams, but, we need to celebrate its return by having a punt all the same.
Valparaiso at Arizona
Am expecting a contest in this one. First game of the regular season, with both teams having lost notable talent.
Arizona have had a very poor pre-season, having lost to a division 2 side (Seattle Pacific) while almost succumbing to another (Humboldt State). Will take time for the new squad to blend. There has been talk of selfish play and egos. Not an ideal prep for the start of the regular season.
Valparaiso return only 2 starters, and have a new head coach. However, I expect them to push Arizona in this one, and the 14 points on offer is definitely worth a sampling.
Further, given the early stage of the season, am not expecting either side to annoy the scorers a massive amount, and the under 137.5 looks tasty.
Suggested Bets
Valparaiso +14
Under 137.5
Injuries – Kevin Parrom (Arizona)
Friday 4 November 2011
A League - Melbourne Heart @ Adelaide United
MELBOURNE HEART @ ADELAIDE UNITED
Melbourne Heart @ $3.30
Draw @ $3.30
(Play was listed on twitter)
@AusSportsGuys
Melbourne Heart @ $3.30
Draw @ $3.30
(Play was listed on twitter)
@AusSportsGuys
Scottish Premier League - Week 13 Preview
Scottish Premier League – Week 13 Preview
Few things to take into consideration this week.
1. Celtic are playing really ordinary football, proven by a 0-0 HOME draw with Hibs, then played midweek in Europe.
2. St Johnstone still don’t have a manager (at least when I posted this)
3. Rangers have lost Steve Naismith until the end of the season so they will not be anywhere near as good.
4. Motherwell don’t seem to be overly great at home and Celtic will come out and attack them – given Celtic’s ordinary defence, surely an opening for goals?
5. Hearts are open to offers for their players and haven’t paid their players in since mid-October. Surely morale is affected?
6. Inverness STILL aren’t that bad…
Hibs v Dunfermline (Hibs @ $1.70)
While I am scared taking tomato sauce Hibs odds, I cannot see any other possible result. Dunfermline have been very ordinary of late while Hibs have been half decent.
Kilmarnock v Inverness (Killie @ $1.90, Draw @ $3.25)
Killie have been good of late, Inverness still unlucky. Will take the draw also, again, probably because I overrate Inverness. But I know they are better than this…they are.
Motherwell v Celtic (Motherwell @ $5.50, Draw @ $3.75)
Ok. We’ve been down this path before. Me being overly confident about Motherwell’s chances against the Old Firm. No further comment. Will be taking both bets.
Rangers v Dundee Utd (under 2.5 goals @ $2.25)
Big odds for the under 2.5 goals, I cannot pass that up. Rangers at $1.22 is disgusting odds. Dundee Utd are a better away team than at home, having said that, they haven’t been good of late. (well, apart from last week). Will be low scoring.
St Mirren v Hearts (St Mirren @ $2.80)
How is St Mirren not favourites? They are home in this one. Too many issues going on at Hearts.
St Johnstone v Aberdeen (Draw @ $3.25)
@Wiggum7534
Taking the draw. Not much else to say.
Few things to take into consideration this week.
1. Celtic are playing really ordinary football, proven by a 0-0 HOME draw with Hibs, then played midweek in Europe.
2. St Johnstone still don’t have a manager (at least when I posted this)
3. Rangers have lost Steve Naismith until the end of the season so they will not be anywhere near as good.
4. Motherwell don’t seem to be overly great at home and Celtic will come out and attack them – given Celtic’s ordinary defence, surely an opening for goals?
5. Hearts are open to offers for their players and haven’t paid their players in since mid-October. Surely morale is affected?
6. Inverness STILL aren’t that bad…
Hibs v Dunfermline (Hibs @ $1.70)
While I am scared taking tomato sauce Hibs odds, I cannot see any other possible result. Dunfermline have been very ordinary of late while Hibs have been half decent.
Kilmarnock v Inverness (Killie @ $1.90, Draw @ $3.25)
Killie have been good of late, Inverness still unlucky. Will take the draw also, again, probably because I overrate Inverness. But I know they are better than this…they are.
Motherwell v Celtic (Motherwell @ $5.50, Draw @ $3.75)
Ok. We’ve been down this path before. Me being overly confident about Motherwell’s chances against the Old Firm. No further comment. Will be taking both bets.
Rangers v Dundee Utd (under 2.5 goals @ $2.25)
Big odds for the under 2.5 goals, I cannot pass that up. Rangers at $1.22 is disgusting odds. Dundee Utd are a better away team than at home, having said that, they haven’t been good of late. (well, apart from last week). Will be low scoring.
St Mirren v Hearts (St Mirren @ $2.80)
How is St Mirren not favourites? They are home in this one. Too many issues going on at Hearts.
St Johnstone v Aberdeen (Draw @ $3.25)
@Wiggum7534
Taking the draw. Not much else to say.
NHL - 4 November 2011 (@Mal68au)
Play on the ice today.
CALGARY @ DETROIT
Calgary ML @ $2.65
@mal68au
CALGARY @ DETROIT
Calgary ML @ $2.65
@mal68au
Tuesday 1 November 2011
NHL - October Review (@Mal68au)
Nearly a month into the new NHL season and wow hasn’t it been great! Some surprises, big teams and players struggling even some early trades. I’ll start this month by going through my three big winners for the month and then my losers.
Winners and Losers
Now a lot of people would have expected Washington to start well but surely not this well. A seven game winning streak is the perfect way to boost confidence at the beginning of any season and they look set to take out the Presidents’ Trophy this year.
The second winner just has to be the Oilers. Having travelled to Edmonton earlier this year it was clear the people love their hockey but they were almost embarrassed to admit it, that’s how bad the Oilers were going. Yet a month in and they are top of their division! The main reason is the all new “Kid Line”. Taylor Hall (19), Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (18) and Jordan Eberle (21) are dominating and are just plain fun to watch. I’m not so sure they make the playoffs come the end of the season but do yourself a favour a find a way to watch a game now whist they are up and about.
The big winner for me however is Phil Kessel. He has always had the skill and been capable of dominating in short bursts, but has never done it for this this long. He currently leads the league in goals with nine (tied with James Neal) and leads the league with 16 points through only nine games. His form has gone a long way to having Toronto in first place in the division.
As far as the losers go you can’t go past Boston. For the champs to be sitting bottom of the conference a month in is just not right.
Second up is Marco Sturm. Picked one of the cup favourites in Vancouver in the off season as a free agent it was hoped Sturm would provide some offense although after only a handful of fruitless games he was part of a trade that saw him end up in Florida of all places, hardly a Stanley Cup threat.
My last loser for the month has to be the NBA, the last thing they needed was such a good start to the NHL season.
Division Standings
In the Atlantic Pittsburgh are obviously off to a great start at the top of the standings and at the top of the league, however this is due largely to the hectic schedule having played the most games in the league by a couple. Malkin has been having issues with his knee and missed games but when he plays is playing well. Oh and if you took Penguins at $7 to win the conference or $11 to win the cup you should be happy as they are now favourites and I wouldn’t expect to see those numbers again.
Philly started the season brilliantly and are getting the scoring so credit where it’s due. However I still have some doubts about their depth. An injury to Pronger on their D and they have given up 14 goals in two games. The simple fact is you aren’t going to have your best guys available all year so you need depth, I’m not convinced.
The Rangers have started OK, but I would to see a bit more from big signing Brad Richards if we are to cash in on them winning the division #unlikely
Moving to the Northeast Toronto are out front largely due to Kessel as mentioned earlier and Boston are really battling. The feeling is that eventually these two will start to switch positions but I am not so sure, although I have never really rated Boston, yep I backed against them right up until game 7 last year. So what do I know.
What I do know though is that Buffalo are looking good, speedy, organised and a great goaltender they will now win this division. By the time Boston get their issues sorted, if they ever do, Buffalo should already be too far ahead. I think we got a piece of them at $2.60 so that’s solid enough.
In the Southeast it would surprise no-one to see that Washington has stormed out in front already. They love the regular season. The good news is they have been getting solid contributions from all over, Vokoun has been solid in net and they haven’t been reliant on just one guy such as Ovechkin to score. Sure he has been doing his bit but so have Backstrom, Wideman, Green, Johansson and Chimera. These guys have locked this division already and likely will be tough to beat in that super division, in which we got them at $4.
Elsewhere in this division Tampa have been a little disappointing so far going at only .500 but it’s still early so they can improve. And it was good to see the Jets get their first win, against the Penguins too and then to follow it up with a couple more since including a 9-8 classic against Philly, would love to see a replay of that one.
In the Central as predicted it is shaping as a battle between Detroit and Chicago. Detroit started well winning the first five before facing off with the also undefeated Washington and getting smashed 7-1. They have since lost their two subsequent games as well so they need to stop this mini slide soon.
I would suggest that Chicago’s schedule has been slightly easier to this point, but they can only beat who they are scheduled to play. We took both Chicago and Detroit so fairly comfortable we come out in front come playoff time here.
The other note out of the division has to be Columbus, wow they have been crap. One win in ten games is just woeful, sure Jeff Carter is injured but even before that he wasn’t scoring. It seems like it’s the same old story of if Rick Nash doesn’t score then no one will, although that’s not fair to Vinny Prospal, he’s doing his bit too. Beyond that, they’re just in trouble.
In the Northwest Vancouver amazingly are sitting on the bottom however I don’t really think it’s time to panic just yet. The trade with Florida was interesting though, as I can’t work out why Florida agreed to the deal. Big win for Vancouver getting David Booth and effectively giving very little. Expect them to get going soon and move to the top of the standings. We should still cash our ticket of $1.20 without too much trouble.
But how about Colorado and Edmonton at the top of the division. In such a tough and experienced conference to see two young teams thriving so early in the season is just plain exciting, I hope it continues for a few more months yet. If it has to come to an end for one of these teams I think maybe Colorado are the team more likely to scrape into a playoff spot if that’s at all possible, but hey I’ve probably cursed that now talking about it so early.
Finally we come to the tough Pacific division. I predicted this to be toughest division pre-season and I reckon that is supported by the fact that the one team I didn’t mention in the Stars topping the division at present. They traded away goal scorer Neal last year, lost free agent Brad Richards in the off season yet they are winning games with a nice even spread of goal scoring. You just can’t fault them so far.
LA have been solid early and reaffirmed everyone’s beliefs that they will be playing in the playoffs and will be a serious threat. The Sharks started slowly losing three of the first four but have since strung four in row together and are not far behind. I really think it is LA and San Jose that will fight this division out now, regardless of who wins they will both hardened and tough to beat in the playoffs. Of course the seeding would help and we also want the Sharks to get up.
Anyway that’s it for another month, in November expect to see even more dirty hockey mo’s than usual, the return of Crosby and of course your usual spattering of unbelievable goals and the like. On a side note I’ve got a bit going on and haven’t really had the time to tweet many plays or anything as yet. Stick with me for another month though and come December I’ll be able to get some more plays and info out there a bit more regularly. Cheers @mal68au
Winners and Losers
Now a lot of people would have expected Washington to start well but surely not this well. A seven game winning streak is the perfect way to boost confidence at the beginning of any season and they look set to take out the Presidents’ Trophy this year.
The second winner just has to be the Oilers. Having travelled to Edmonton earlier this year it was clear the people love their hockey but they were almost embarrassed to admit it, that’s how bad the Oilers were going. Yet a month in and they are top of their division! The main reason is the all new “Kid Line”. Taylor Hall (19), Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (18) and Jordan Eberle (21) are dominating and are just plain fun to watch. I’m not so sure they make the playoffs come the end of the season but do yourself a favour a find a way to watch a game now whist they are up and about.
The big winner for me however is Phil Kessel. He has always had the skill and been capable of dominating in short bursts, but has never done it for this this long. He currently leads the league in goals with nine (tied with James Neal) and leads the league with 16 points through only nine games. His form has gone a long way to having Toronto in first place in the division.
As far as the losers go you can’t go past Boston. For the champs to be sitting bottom of the conference a month in is just not right.
Second up is Marco Sturm. Picked one of the cup favourites in Vancouver in the off season as a free agent it was hoped Sturm would provide some offense although after only a handful of fruitless games he was part of a trade that saw him end up in Florida of all places, hardly a Stanley Cup threat.
My last loser for the month has to be the NBA, the last thing they needed was such a good start to the NHL season.
Division Standings
In the Atlantic Pittsburgh are obviously off to a great start at the top of the standings and at the top of the league, however this is due largely to the hectic schedule having played the most games in the league by a couple. Malkin has been having issues with his knee and missed games but when he plays is playing well. Oh and if you took Penguins at $7 to win the conference or $11 to win the cup you should be happy as they are now favourites and I wouldn’t expect to see those numbers again.
Philly started the season brilliantly and are getting the scoring so credit where it’s due. However I still have some doubts about their depth. An injury to Pronger on their D and they have given up 14 goals in two games. The simple fact is you aren’t going to have your best guys available all year so you need depth, I’m not convinced.
The Rangers have started OK, but I would to see a bit more from big signing Brad Richards if we are to cash in on them winning the division #unlikely
Moving to the Northeast Toronto are out front largely due to Kessel as mentioned earlier and Boston are really battling. The feeling is that eventually these two will start to switch positions but I am not so sure, although I have never really rated Boston, yep I backed against them right up until game 7 last year. So what do I know.
What I do know though is that Buffalo are looking good, speedy, organised and a great goaltender they will now win this division. By the time Boston get their issues sorted, if they ever do, Buffalo should already be too far ahead. I think we got a piece of them at $2.60 so that’s solid enough.
In the Southeast it would surprise no-one to see that Washington has stormed out in front already. They love the regular season. The good news is they have been getting solid contributions from all over, Vokoun has been solid in net and they haven’t been reliant on just one guy such as Ovechkin to score. Sure he has been doing his bit but so have Backstrom, Wideman, Green, Johansson and Chimera. These guys have locked this division already and likely will be tough to beat in that super division, in which we got them at $4.
Elsewhere in this division Tampa have been a little disappointing so far going at only .500 but it’s still early so they can improve. And it was good to see the Jets get their first win, against the Penguins too and then to follow it up with a couple more since including a 9-8 classic against Philly, would love to see a replay of that one.
In the Central as predicted it is shaping as a battle between Detroit and Chicago. Detroit started well winning the first five before facing off with the also undefeated Washington and getting smashed 7-1. They have since lost their two subsequent games as well so they need to stop this mini slide soon.
I would suggest that Chicago’s schedule has been slightly easier to this point, but they can only beat who they are scheduled to play. We took both Chicago and Detroit so fairly comfortable we come out in front come playoff time here.
The other note out of the division has to be Columbus, wow they have been crap. One win in ten games is just woeful, sure Jeff Carter is injured but even before that he wasn’t scoring. It seems like it’s the same old story of if Rick Nash doesn’t score then no one will, although that’s not fair to Vinny Prospal, he’s doing his bit too. Beyond that, they’re just in trouble.
In the Northwest Vancouver amazingly are sitting on the bottom however I don’t really think it’s time to panic just yet. The trade with Florida was interesting though, as I can’t work out why Florida agreed to the deal. Big win for Vancouver getting David Booth and effectively giving very little. Expect them to get going soon and move to the top of the standings. We should still cash our ticket of $1.20 without too much trouble.
But how about Colorado and Edmonton at the top of the division. In such a tough and experienced conference to see two young teams thriving so early in the season is just plain exciting, I hope it continues for a few more months yet. If it has to come to an end for one of these teams I think maybe Colorado are the team more likely to scrape into a playoff spot if that’s at all possible, but hey I’ve probably cursed that now talking about it so early.
Finally we come to the tough Pacific division. I predicted this to be toughest division pre-season and I reckon that is supported by the fact that the one team I didn’t mention in the Stars topping the division at present. They traded away goal scorer Neal last year, lost free agent Brad Richards in the off season yet they are winning games with a nice even spread of goal scoring. You just can’t fault them so far.
LA have been solid early and reaffirmed everyone’s beliefs that they will be playing in the playoffs and will be a serious threat. The Sharks started slowly losing three of the first four but have since strung four in row together and are not far behind. I really think it is LA and San Jose that will fight this division out now, regardless of who wins they will both hardened and tough to beat in the playoffs. Of course the seeding would help and we also want the Sharks to get up.
Anyway that’s it for another month, in November expect to see even more dirty hockey mo’s than usual, the return of Crosby and of course your usual spattering of unbelievable goals and the like. On a side note I’ve got a bit going on and haven’t really had the time to tweet many plays or anything as yet. Stick with me for another month though and come December I’ll be able to get some more plays and info out there a bit more regularly. Cheers @mal68au
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