Ricky Dimon
The NCAA Tournament is in between rounds, but the NBA and NHL will once again pick up the slack on Wednesday. We have an 11-game slate on the hardwood and five games on the ice. Let’s take a look at where the public money is going.
NBA: Phoenix Suns -8.5 over Orlando Magic
Per DraftKings, the public is all over the Phoenix Suns as they prepare to visit the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. A total of 91 percent of the handle and 95 percent of the bets are backing Phoenix -8.5. Bettors also like the money line despite the lopsided -375 value, with 97 percent of the handle and 86 percent of the wagers picking the Suns to win outright.
NBA: Los Angeles Clippers ML over San Antonio Spurs
Another popular play is on the visiting Los Angeles Clippers to win straight up against the San Antonio Spurs. Coming off a 22-point comeback against Atlanta on Monday, the Clippers are drawing 93 percent of the handle and 89 percent of the bets on the money line. Bettors are also willing to give the six points, with 66 percent of the money and 81 percent of the wagers on L.A. against the spread.
NHL: Minnesota Wild -1.5 over Anaheim Ducks
There is a clear-cut No. 1 play of the day in the public’s eyes in the NHL on Monday. It is without question the Minnesota Wild in their home game against the Anaheim Ducks. Minnesota on the -1.5 puck line is inspiring 94 percent of the money and 70 percent of the wagers. On the -250 money line, the Wild are getting 96 percent of the handle and 91 percent of the bets.
NHL: Winnipeg Jets vs. Vancouver Canucks Under 6
Punters also like the under in the Winnipeg Jets vs. Vancouver Canucks contest. A total of 82 percent of the money and 76 percent of the bets are on Under 6.
We have to agree with the public on both of these plays. This Winnipeg-Vancouver contest features two of the best goalies in the business—Connor Hellebuyck of the Jets and Thatcher Demko of the Canucks. Meanwhile, Minnesota leads the head-to-head series with Anaheim this season 4-1 and the Ducks have lost six of their last seven games.
NCAA Tournament: Baylor Bears vs. Villanova Wildcats Over 139
One of bettors’ favor Sweet 16 plays in the NCAA Tournament is the over in the Baylor vs. Villanova game on Saturday. With 88 percent of the wagers coming in on Over 139, 83 percent of the money is going in that direction. This total opened at 138 but has been on the move with the over being hammered. Bettors have clearly noted the offensive performances displayed by each team so far in the NCAA Tournament. Baylor is averaging 77.5 ppg through two games (and would have averaged even more if both weren’t absolute blowouts), while Villanova put up 84 points against North Texas in round two after going for 73 against Winthrop in the opening round. Although the Wildcats are without Collin Gillespie, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is pouring in 22.0 ppg over Villanova’s last three contests.
Check out our additional public money breakdowns in today’s March Madness daily update
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