The Chicago Bulls currently sit in first place in the Eastern Conference and are winners of six in a row. At 39-21, the Bulls continue to win despite being down some key players.
Last offseason, signing point guard Lonzo Ball and guard Alex Caruso looked like solid additions which would result in an improved roster overall, on offense and defense.
The very name of the Most Valuable Player award allows for the sports betting market to offer numerical context. Both oddsmakers and pro bettors constantly update their own set of power ratings and adjust for each player’s availability. This type of exercise is never as simple as we want, given the betting market is extremely nuanced. Key numbers carry more weight, and the NBA season always involves injuries and load management. However, I asked an oddsmaker and avid bettor to assume each player’s supporting cast at full strength and to operate in a vacuum as much as possible.
Caesars MVP odds: +260
That means if the Denver Nuggets hosted the Houston Rockets with Jokic, they would be favored by 8.5 points. If he sat out and everyone else remained in the lineup, Denver would be favored by 1.5 points.
1 Related
“When he is on the floor, per 100 possessions, Denver is outscoring opponents by 10.5 points. It’s an elite net rating. When he’s not on the floor, they get outscored by 14.6 points,” VSiN Senior NBA Analyst Jonathan Von Tobel told ESPN. “He is the difference between the Nuggets being the Suns or the Pistons. Among the MVP candidates, he leads the pack by far.”
The reigning MVP has comparable numbers to last season, albeit with a weaker supporting cast, given Michael Porter Jr.’s injury. Jokic leads the NBA in player efficiency rating (PER) and is the only player currently leading his team in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks.
“It’s just incredible what this guy does and what he means to the team,” Las Vegas SuperBook head NBA oddsmaker Jeff Sherman told ESPN.
*Prior to Philly’s trade for James Harden and about 4 points after the trade. Supporting cast is a big part of point spread value.
Caesars MVP odds: +140
“The hard part is factoring what Harden is. He had a hamstring injury. He has not looked like the same guy as last season, but he’s still Harden,” Von Tobel said. In January, Embiid was a 50-1 long shot to win the MVP but is now the betting favorite, leading the NBA in scoring and ranking second in PER. However, the addition of Harden could inhibit Embiid’s numbers down the stretch.
Caesars MVP odds: 14-1
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“If you looked at earlier in the season, I would have had Curry about seven to eight points. He was carrying a subpar team to a real high power rating. It was crazy. Now he’s getting some help back and you see some of his production come down,” Sherman said. “At one point, he was even money to win the MVP.”
The two-time MVP ranks 20th in PER but leads the league in made 3-pointers, and the mere threat of his outside shooting puts extreme pressure on opposing defenses and indirectly creates opportunities for teammates in the form of “hockey assists.”
“[Curry’s] impact is offensively. When he leaves the floor, the offensive rating tanks — 114.8 to 105.8,” Von Tobel said. “They’re still a really good defensive team without him.”
Caesars MVP odds: 4-1
“It feels like he’s just less than I’ve seen in previous years,” Sherman said of the former two-time MVP’s value to the point spread. What “hurts” him is that he plays alongside two All-Stars and a capable supporting cast, which is why the point spread adjusts only four points in his absence. Antetokounmpo still ranks second in points per game, second in PER and seventh in rebounds per game.
Caesars MVP odds: 18-1
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“I love this guy and it feels like he should be worth more, but his absence doesn’t have the same impact on his team that those others players do. And it’s not like he has a supporting cast of two or three superstars,” Sherman said of the All-Star starter.
The Grizzlies are 12-2 without Morant in the lineup and 29-18 when he plays. He currently sits ninth in PER.
Caesars MVP odds: 14-1
His candidacy has become a major discussion topic in NBA circles. Often dismissed as a replaceable player, DeRozan is thriving in his first season in Chicago, averaging a career-high 28.3 points and ranking seventh in PER.
“From an advanced analytics standpoint, you can make the case that he’s not that valuable if you heavily weigh VORP and win shares,” Von Tobel said. “But if you look at on-court numbers, he improves them a lot. Among the MVP candidates, outside of the injured Chris Paul, he is the best clutch performer.”
Strengthening DeRozan’s resume is that the Bulls currently have the No. 1 seed in the East. Since the playoff expansion in 1984, 29 of the 38 MVPs have been awarded to a player from the 1-seed. Eight of the other nine award winners have played on a 2- or 3-seed. So if the Sixers and Nuggets don’t climb the standings, it might be hard to buck this trend.
by Edward Shanahan – Chicago Psychic Medium and Chicago Paranormal Explorer.
What Does the Catholic Church Say About Spirits of Loved Ones Visiting Us?
I decided to bring you what I just wrote here. I bring you not my words on the subject, but Fr. Michael Kerper’s words from the website ‘The Catholic Exchange’.
I did the research. Plus, this ‘is not’ the 1st time I have heard it. My granddaughter’s school’s Pastor told the students the same thing. Also, when he was asked about ‘Witches’ he said “Like anything else with life, there are good and there are bad, I have friends that are good Witches – Next questions?”
The reason I know about the subject and what I discuss at times during my readings, not only the years of Catholic Schooling, plus also being a listener of Catholic Radio and may I suggest to those in the Chicago land area channel 950am.
* Fr. Michael Kerper:
To put your question differently: can these bodiless souls — ghosts — appear and intervene in our lives?
We have to clarify the term “ghost.” I am not speaking here about menacing spirits that terrorize movie characters. This English word “ghost” comes from the German word “geist,” which broadly means “spirit,” including non-personal things such as the “spirit of the age” and so on. In English, “ghost” specifically means the soul of a dead person that becomes discernible through our eyes, ears, nose (some ghosts smell!), or skin.
In theory, billions of ghosts potentially exist because billions of human beings have “lost” their bodies through death. Strictly speaking, these disembodied souls are not ghosts because they have never become discernible to any living people. Only those few souls whose presence is seen or felt by others are truly ghosts. And their existence is plausible. But here we must proceed with great caution.
To be frank, many theologians haven’t written much about ghosts, but some have, notably Saint Augustine and Saint Thomas Aquinas.
According to Saint Thomas (Summa Theologica, Suppl., Q. 69, art. 3.), the souls of the dead who are in heaven can indeed manifest themselves to the living on their own initiative. Such appearances, however, are not “hauntings” meant to terrify or tease people. Rather, these saintly apparitions occur only to bring comfort and encouragement, never fear.
*And remember, “saint” means anyone who dwells with God, not just those officially declared “saints” by the Church.
In light of this, it is theoretically possible for loved ones, such as deceased grandparents or children (even babies), to become sensibly discernible to us. While such occurrences may be rare, there is no reason to rule them out. In a sense, these spirits are “ghosts”, but they are benign, even loving.
Now we move to the matter of malicious ghosts, the nasty type that pop up in horror movies and novels. Saint Thomas clearly states that the souls of the dead, who are not in heaven, can never appear to the living without God’s consent. But why would God ever allow ghosts to “haunt” people?
Saint Thomas gives two reasons: first, as a warning; and second, to seek spiritual assistance from the living in the form of prayer or good deeds to advance the dead person toward fulfillment in God. The ghosts or “non-saints” may annoy people, but they can never harm them.
Of course, one can read somewhat credible stories about destructive “hauntings,” but Saint Thomas always insisted that these “ghosts” were definitely not the souls of dead people, but something else, most likely demons masquerading as ghosts.
This brief exploration about ghosts leads us to a very positive point: the spiritual bonds between the living and dead, especially those who love one another, are deep, unbreakable, and mysterious because they are rooted in the Body of Christ, which embraces the living and dead. We have nothing to fear, for God governs all things — including “ghosts” — with wisdom and love.
This article is from a chapter in A Priest Answers 27 Questions You Never Thought to Ask, which is available from Sophia Institute Press.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Why did I go to the Catholic Church teachings for the answer?
As it states in Wikipedia:
According to Catholic tradition, the Catholic Church was founded by Jesus Christ.[8] The New Testament records Jesus’ activities and teaching, his appointment of the twelve Apostles, and his instructions to them to continue his work.[9][10] The Catholic Church teaches that the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, in an event known as Pentecost, signaled the beginning of the public ministry of the Church.[11]
Blessings to All,
Edward Shanahan
To find out what I have to offer to you, go to my web site at: https://edwardshanahan.com
Edward Shanahan is a Psychic Medium in the Chicago land area. Edward Shanahan does Private in home / location readings, Phone Readings, Zoom Readings with Spirit Communications if desired, Psychic House Parties / Gatherings with Spirit Communication Sessions for private readings and house parties if it is desired.
Edward has been written about in five different books and has written two of his own.
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Ah, I started the written part of this article Thursday evening, then noticed some text issues with the article below this on my feed. Had to stop to take care of it. Which pushed back my schedule to get to the other beers I meant to write up. I know. First World Problems.
This is the latest from Spoetzel Brewery, better know as Shiner Beer, from the little Texas town where they’re located. Again, they send me beers for my comment, and they are pretty widely available here in the Chicago area.
This drop is what they say will be the first of an “IPA Franchise,” called “TexHex,” a step away from their flagship lager beers. The first entry is called Bruja’s Brew, and is made with cactus water (the new “water” thing) and Amarillo hops. Seems to be a whole Texas thing going on here. It’s listed at 7.0% alcohol by volume.
The pour has a slight golden haze, looking more like limited filtering. It kicks up a big fizzy head that leaves suds behind as it settles. The Amarillo hops are right there in the nose, a pungent note of bitterness with some pine resin and animal dander. Tasting just brings in more hop blast, with some orangy citrus coming in on the tongue. I don’t know what to expect from the addition of cactus water. Perhaps it’s to add a little more sweetness or fermentable fruit note. The toasty malt profile is much lighter to make room for the hops.
Another entry in the hoppy IPA sweepstakes, but not as overwhelming or intense as some might look for. Alcohol is present, but takes its time getting noticed.
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NEW YORK — Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler has been fined $25,000 for violating league rules regarding media interview access and for his noncompliance with the resulting NBA investigation.
The league announced the fine Friday, saying it stemmed from Butler’s failure to comply with his media availability obligations during the NBA All-Star Weekend, including following the game on Sunday night.
A six-time All-Star, Butler had two points and two steals in nine minutes for Team LeBron in its 163-160 victory over Team Durant.
Butler fined $25K for violating media access ruleson February 25, 2022 at 10:14 pm Read More »
As Black History Month comes to an end, we want to bring your focus to a recent production at the DuSable Museum, bringing the notorious 1955 murder trial of Emmett Till to the stage. Directed by Anthony Moseley and Dana Anderson, Trial in Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till is offering two in-person showings on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 7 pm and Sunday, February 27, 2022 at 3 pm. The play will be followed by a Crucial Conversation with the audience. Tickets are now available on Collaboraction.
Image Credit: AP
In 1955, the 14-year old Emmett Till was found lynched and thrown in the Tallahatchie River by two white men — who walked away with a “not guilty” verdict from the all-white jury in as short as an hour of discussion. Naturally, the murder of Emmett Till and its ridicule of a trial has hence become a symbol of anti-black violence and a display of the injustice, discrimination, and essentially the flaws and failures in the system are being brought under daylight by more and more people defending their equal rights.
Directed by Chicago actress, playwright, and visual artist Dana N. Anderson, the play reproduced one of the most horrific mistrials in America’s history. To recreate the series of events to its maximum authenticity, the production used actual language and transcripts from the courtroom, unearthed back in 2005. By bringing this timeless case in front of a modern audience, many too young to be familiar with what actually happened, Anderson hoped to bring people’s attention back to the ongoing racial violence that is in itself an epidemic in America.
Image Credit: Vincent D. Johnson / Pioneer Press
Dedicated to creating an immersive experience, the production mingles the audience in the “courtroom” with the actors, offering an immersive style reenactment of the trial as if you’re living through a documentary. It also seems more fitting than ever since, one one hand, the Justice Department has recently closed the Emmett Till murder probe. On the other hand, we keep seeing hate crimes targeting not only African Americans but many other ethnic groups as well throughout the past decade which makes you wonder what has really changed.
Therefore, it is the production team’s goal for this theatric experience to be as uncomfortable as it could be — because it should make you uncomfortable. The case showed what it was like during the days when people weren’t aware of what civil rights were. But they knew something was wrong, and that actions must be taken. And looking back after decades of civil rights movement, the differences and similarities between the two era are even more impactful and will leave you in thoughtful silent after the show.
So if you’re free this weekend, grab your tickets for Trial in Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till from Collaboraction, and dedicate some time to walk around the DuSable Museum. It will worth your time. We promise.
PS: Let’s all agree that we are making progress, and let’s all have faith that our society and the justice system will continue to move forward — slowly, that’s true, but steadily, for sure. And remember: it is up to every Chicagoan to build a growing community supporting cultural, ethnic, and physical diversity with love, education, and respect.
Located at 740 E 56th Pl, the DuSable Museum of African American History is one of the most important institutions to learn black history in Chicago in an unfiltered, authentic way. Dedicated to the study and conservation of African-American history, culture, and art, the museum offers a wide range of resources and materials for researchers and the public alike, accompanied by rich programming of virtual and in-person activities, lectures, and performances.
Collaboraction, Chicago’s theater for social change, collaborates with a diverse community of Chicagoans, artists and community activists to create original theatrical and virtual experiences that cultivate dialogue and action around the world’s most critical social issues. Since the company’s founding in 1996, Collaboraction has pushed artistic boundaries working with more than 3,000 artists to bring more than 60 productions and events to more than 150,000 audience members.
Featured Image Credit: Vincent D. Johnson / Pioneer Press
The James Beard Foundation announced yesterday its 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards semi-finalists for 2022 in a multi-page press release covering dining across the US.
The James Beard judges visited thousands of restaurants from The Pig and the Lady and Piggy Smalls in Honolulu to MIDA in Boston to find the best of the best.
And it’s not just the big cities they visited.
There’s Bin 707 Foodbar in Grand Junction, CO and even Puerto Rico’s El Burén de Lula.
Chicago, IL – May 6, 2019: The 29th Annual James Beard Awards at The Lyric Opera House in The Loop.
Photo by Clay Williams for The James Beard Foundation
The James Beard Awards are considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, recognizing exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.
Here are the highlights of Chicago’s semi-finalists in the following awards categories.
A restaurateur who uses their establishment(s) as a vehicle for building community, demonstrates creativity in entrepreneurship, integrity in restaurant operations, and is making efforts to create a sustainable work culture. Must have been in the restaurant business for at least five years, and they must not have been nominated for a James Beard Foundation Chef Award in the pastthree years.
Surprisingly there were no Chicago restauranteurs named in this category. The closest semi-finalist to Chicago is:
Joe Muench, Black Shoe Hospitality in Milwaukee, WI.
A chef who sets high culinary standards and has served as a positive example for other food professionals. Must have been working as a chef for three or more consecutive years.
Again Chicago was MIA so you may want to head north to check out the cuisine of Kyle Knall at Birch in Milwaukee, WI.
A restaurant that demonstrates consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations while contributing positively to its broader community. Must have been in business for five or more consecutive years, not including any time closed due to the pandemic.
Drum roll please. Chicago has two standouts in this category:
Logan Square’s funky, chic Parachute
And fine dining restaurant Oriole.
A restaurant opened in 2020 or 2021 that already demonstrates excellence in cuisine and hospitality and seems likely to make a significant impact in years to come.
Kasama, already a Michelin Bib Gourmand winner for 2021, is Chicago’s lone entry for best new restaurant. This popular Ukrainian Village hotspot helmed by Chefs Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, both formerly of Oriole, is known for their contemporary Filipino cuisine and spectacular pastries. Ukrainian Village)1001 N. Winchester Avenue, Chicago.
A baker of breads, pastries, or desserts who displays exceptional skill. Must consistently sell goods directly to the public, but does not need a brick-and-mortar presence and must have been working as a pastry chef or baker for the past three years.
Maya-Camille Broussard, takes the cake as a semi-finalist for her River North establishment Justice of the Pies.
A restaurant or bar that demonstrates exceptional care and skill in the selection, preparation, and serving of cocktails, spirits, and/or beer. Makes efforts to foster a diverse portfolio of brands and team members.
Andersonville’s LBGTQIA sassy Nobody’s Darling, owned by 2 black lesbians, gets the nod for Chicago and the tavern-styled Goodkind heads up the competition in Milwaukee.
Chefs who set high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities, and who are making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions. May be from any kind of dining establishment but must have been working as a chef in the region for at least three years.
Best Chicago chefs great lakes Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)
Rodolfo Cuadros, Amaru, Bloom Plant Based Kitchen, 1519 N. Milaukee, Chicago
Diana Dávila Boldin, Mi Tocaya Antojería, 2800 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago
Paul Fehribach, Big Jones, 5347 N. Clark, Chicago
Jason Hammel, Lula Cafe, 2537 N. Kedzie Chicago
Dave Park, Jeong, 1460 W. Chicago, Chicago
Darnell Reed, Luella’s Southern Kitchen, 4609 N. Lincoln, Chicago
Noah Sandoval, Oriole, Chicago
John Shields and Karen Urie Shields, Smyth, 177 N. Ada, Chicago
Erick Williams, Virtue Restaurant & Bar, 1462 E. 63rd., Chicago
Chicago Restaurant Week kicking off March 25 may be a good time to check some of these spots out.
Best Chef: Midwest (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD, WI) from Milwaukee
Dane Baldwin, The Diplomat, Milwaukee
Karen Bell, Bavette La Boucherie, Milwaukee
Daniel Bonanno, A Pig in a Fur Coat, Madison, WI
Dan Jacobs and Dan Van Rite, EsterEv, Milwaukee
Gregory León, Amilinda, Milwaukee
The full list of 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards semifinalists can be found below and on the James Beard Foundation website. Winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 13, 2022, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
The James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards were established in 1991 and is one of five separate recognition programs of the Awards. James Beard Awards policies and procedures can be viewed at jamesbeard.org/awards/policies.
An overview of the voting process can be viewed here. For more information on this year’s Restaurant and Chef Award Semifinalists, see here.
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The ESPN fantasy and betting cheat sheet is your pregame destination for our best intel and data to help you make smart fantasy and wagering decisions. NBA game odds are provided by Caesars Sportsbook and fantasy advice is based on ESPN 10-team leagues.
Double Trouble: The Timberwolves opened as one-point favorites over the 76ers, but the spread swung several points to favor Philly upon confirmation of James Harden‘s debut. The bearded one has been double teamed on 17.3 possessions per game this season, second only to Luka Doncic. Joel Embiid has been double teamed 126 times on post-ups this season, by far the most in the NBA. Given that Harden is the only player in the league that has averaged at least 20 points and 10 assists, a swing at his double-double prop is an interesting path to betting this contest.
Birthday Boy: Fred VanVleet turns 28 years old today and given that he played nine minutes in the All Star Game, it’s safe to count on him returning from a one game absence (knee). He’s averaged 6.3 assists and 4.6 made 3’s in February and should be busy tonight against a Hornets team that ranks second in pace of play.
Fantasy Friendly: Ingredients for big statistical performances are undeniably present in Friday’s matchup between the Rockets and Magic in Orlando; Houston ranks first in the league in pace, while Orlando is 10th. The Rockets are last in the league in defensive rating, with Orlando sitting 24th. Given the matchup metrics, Jalen Green‘s scoring prop (14.5) appears entirely achievable.
Kleber’s Case: With Tim Hardaway Jr. ruled out ahead of tonight’s matchup with the Jazz, it’s worth noting Maxi Kleber has tallied 12 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per 36 minutes with Kristaps Porzingis and Hardaway off the floor this season. With six swats across his last two outings, Kleber is helpful for streaming purposes and makes for an interesting target for block props.
Targeting Toronto: Stacking lineups with the likes of VanVleet and Pascal Siakam could prove rewarding given Charlotte is allowing third-most DraftKings points per game to shooting guards and the sixth-most to power forwards. Oh, and the third-most fantasy points to centers. You get the idea.
Weekend Waivers: Head into the weekend with some winning waiver decisions. Denver’s Will Barton (rostered in 68.9% of ESPN leagues) scored a season-high 31 points on Thursday night and plays soft Sacramento defense on Saturday. It’s also time to add Cameron Payne (8.4%). Once he’s cleared from a sore wrist, the Suns’ versatile guard will likely start in place of Chris Paul in one of the league’s most efficient offensive schemes. — Jim McCormick and Kyle Soppe
Line: 76ers (-2.5)
Moneyline: 76ers (-140), Timberwolves (+120)
Total: 228.5
BPI Projected Total: 227.5
BPI Win%: Timberwolves – 50.4%
76ers-Timberwolves trends:
76ers (spread) 84% of tickets, 88% of dollars
Over 67% of tickets, 88% of dollars
76ers ML 80% of tickets, 64% of dollars
Joel Embiid has played at an MVP level all season long. Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images
Key players ruled out: none
Notable: Don’t overreact to rest. The 76ers are just 4-9 ATS this season when facing a team that is on the second night of a back-to-back.
Best bet: Tyrese Maxey over 22.5 points assists rebounds The perception is Maxey and James Harden cannot coexist. The two complement each other well, and Harden has echoed that publicly. We will have a chance to see that on Thursday. Maxey has averaged 17.4 points, 3.7 rebounds and 5.2 assists in 37 minutes of play over the last 15 games — Eric Moody
Best bet: Karl-Anthony Towns over 23.5 points
Towns is a difficult offensive matchup for Joel Embiid and the 76ers, because he operates so comfortably from outside the 3-point line. Embiid is an excellent defender that can move for his size, but his preference is to be in the paint. In his last three matchups with Embiid, Towns has taken almost half of his shots (22 of 46) from long range, while still shooting 58.7% from the field and has averaged 28.0 PP36. — Andre Snellings
Line: Heat (-5.5)
Moneyline: Heat (-230), Knicks (+190)
Total: 211.5
BPI Projected Total: 203.5
BPI Win%: Heat – 68.6%
Key players ruled out: Markieff Morris
Notable: The Knicks are just 1-7 ATS in February, with over tickets coming through in six of those games. The Heat are 15-6 (.714 win pct) this season with Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and Kyle Lowry in the lineup, including 7-1 in their last 8 games. When 1 or more of those players are out of the lineup, the Heat are 23-15 (.605 win pct).
Best bet: Heat -5.5
The Heat are one of the best, hottest teams in the league, winners of 6 of their last 7 games with an average scoring margin of +10.1 points in that stretch. The Knicks have lost 13 of 16 with an average margin of -5.4 points. These teams played last month in Miami, with the Heat winning by 14 in a game they were up by 25 after 3 quarters. — Snellings
Best bet: Kyle Lowry over 24.5 total points + assists + rebounds
Lowry has been outstanding since returning to the fold seven games ago. In 35 minutes per game, he averaged 12.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists. Defensively, the Knicks allow a lot of three-pointers and points at the rim. Both of these are weaknesses Lowry and the Heat can exploit. -Eric Moody
Line: Lakers (-1.5)
Moneyline: Lakers (-109), Clippers (-109)
Total: 217.5
BPI Projected Total: 211.0
BPI Win%: Lakers – 54.1%
Key players ruled out: Anthony Davis, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Norman Powell
Notable: The Lakers are 4-1 ATS in their past 5 when the spread is within 5 points (they were 2-8 ATS in the 10 such games prior).
DFS value: Russell Westbrook ($8500 on DK)
In light of the preseason hype, Westbrook hasn’t had a great season. In the past 14 games, he has averaged 17 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.1 assists. With Anthony Davis out, Westbrook should continue to see a lot of action. He’s a great value on DraftKings ($8,500) and from a prop betting perspective, I’d take the over for points+ assists + rebounds. — Moody
Line: Raptors (-2.5)
Moneyline: Raptors (-140), Hornets (+120)
Total: 225.5
BPI Projected Total: 215.5
BPI Win%: Raptors – 56.4%
Key players ruled out: Gordon Hayward
Notable: The Raptors are 6-1 ATS in their past seven games played in the United States.
Best bet: Pascal Siakam over 22.5 points
Siakam entered the All Star Break on a hot streak has averaged 25.0 PPG in his past 10 games while going over 22.5 points in seven of 10 games. As pointed out above, the Hornets struggle defensively against opposing bigs. In his two matchups with the Hornets this season, Siakam scored 24 points both times. — Snellings
Line: Pacers (-7.0)
Moneyline: Pacers (-300), Thunder (-240)
Total: 218.0
BPI Projected Total: 223.0
BPI Win%: Pacers – 65.5%
Key players ruled out: Myles Turner
Notable: Overs are 11-2 in the past 13 Pacer games. Their final game of the first half went under the total, but… consecutive Indiana games have not gone under the total since we flipped the calendar to 2022.
Line: Magic (-4.0)
Moneyline: Magic (-170), Rockets (+145)
Total: 229.0
BPI Projected Total: 219.0
BPI Win%: Magic – 55.8%
Key players ruled out: Moritz Wagner
Notable: Houston games have bee awfully predictable of late. Over tickets have cashed in four straight games and the Rockets have failed to cover 9 of their past 11.
Line: Spurs (-2.5)
Moneyline: Spurs (-140), Wizards (+120)
Total: 224.5
BPI Projected Total: 223.5
BPI Win%: Spurs – 58.5%
Key players ruled out: Kristaps Porzingis, Bradley Beal, Joshua Primo, Romeo Langford, Josh Richardson
Notable: The Wizards have covered just two of their past 14 home games.
Best bet: Keldon Johnson over 15.5 points
In five of his last six games, Johnson has scored 15 or more points. This season, he averages 12.5 field goal attempts and 15.7 points per game. Since the Wizards rank 21st in points allowed per 100 possessions played, Johnson should have plenty of scoring opportunities. — Moody
Line: Suns (-7.5)
Moneyline: Suns (-340), Pelicans (+270)
Total: 225.0
BPI Projected Total: 219.5
BPI Win%: Suns – 64.1%
Key players ruled out: Chris Paul, Zion Williamson, Larry Nance Jr.
Notable: After opening February with four straight covers, the Pelicans closed the first half of their season with four losses against the number in five games.
Best bet: Jonas Valanciunas over 29.5 total points + rebounds
Valanciunas has been a statistical monster all season. Over the past 16 games, he’s averaged 17 points and 10 rebounds per game in 30 minutes per game. The Suns allow a lot of points from the short midrange. This happens to be a strength of Valanciunas’ offensively, as he has made 52% of his 236 attempts this season. — Moody
Line: Jazz (-6.0)
Moneyline: Jazz (-250), Mavericks (+205)
Total: 216.5
BPI Projected Total: 217.0
BPI Win%: Jazz – 64.2%
Key players ruled out: Tim Hardaway Jr.
Notable: Under tickets have come through in 11 of the past 15 Jazz games, including six of the past seven.
ESPN’s NBA Basketball Power Index (BPI) is a measure of team strength developed by the ESPN Analytics team.
1. Indiana Pacers 113.8
2. Minnesota Timberwolves 113.7
3. Philadelphia 76ers 113.6
1. New York Knicks (99.1 points)
2. Miami Heat (104.3)
3. LA Clippers (104.9)
1. Miami Heat (68.6%)
2. Indiana Pacers (65.5%)
3. Utah Jazz (64.2%)
Fantasy basketball and NBA betting cheat sheet for Fridayon February 25, 2022 at 6:43 pm Read More »
Matt Nagy was a terrible coach for the Chicago Bears in every season except one. In that one, he was a rookie coach who went 12-4 en route to an NFC North title and a Coach of the Year Award. Since then, he was brutal.
Because of this, the Bears fired him after the disaster that was the 2021-22 season in which the Bears went under .500 and missed the playoffs. Ryan Pace was also fired as the general manager and one of his biggest faults was keeping Nagy for too long. They were replaced by coach Matt Eberflus and GM Ryan Poles.
I know what you’re thinking, why would I venture out of one of the best restaurant cities in the world to find a new spot? While the 30-minute drive on 290 West might not be the most scenic route, it is definitely worth it to check out the best date night spots in western suburbs, including Elmhurst, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, and Oak Brook. Plus, these towns are popping enough that they almost make you feel like you’re walking down Fulton Market, only minus the blaring traffic. (and the headache of trying to park!)
Right next door to Cook County on the west side, Elmhurst is known for its rich art and history. A visit to the area almost always require checking out the Elmhurst History Museum and Elmhurst Art Museum. If you have time, the Wilder Park Conservatory also never lets you down. All these activities should work up a good appetite for you. Then, let’s take a look at some great dining spots below.
100 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Is there anything better on date night than a perfectly cooked steak, a huge bowl of pasta, or a stiff martini? Not in my book. Luckily, 100 South’s expansive menu is full of mouth-watering dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. If you’re looking for a new cocktail to try, 100 South is well-known for their hand-shaken pear martini that you’ll most likely tell your server to keep coming. After dinner hours, the bar turns into a lounge that takes date night to the next level.
105 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Woodfire pizza and endless pasta options? Sign me up. Pazzi di Pizza has a huge menu including classic Italian dishes made with fresh and exciting ingredients. They also offer daily specials and a changing “pasta of the week” to keep restaurant goers coming back for more. When the weather gets nice (summer, please hurry), Pazzi also has an open patio with a great atmosphere for sipping on an Aperol spritz.
151 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Okay, so technically for 151 Kitchen I lied a little bit, because what really needs to be called out here is their $16 bottomless mimosa deal. If you and your partner are looking for a spot to have great food and get a little tipsy while doing it, 151 is the place for you. Their brunch menu, burgers, salads, and full bar make 151 the best way to spend a Saturday. Bonus feature is that 151 is walkable to the Elmhurst Metra station if you’re looking for a quick and cheap ride home.
About 25 miles to the west sits Wheaton, a quaint college town with plenty of nature for a good day out, featuring the favored Morton Arboretum. So, if you’re taking your loved one for a date in among the trees, you’ll be delighted to find that there are plenty of romantic date spots right around to sit and stare into each other’s eyes with a glass of wine.
120 N Hale St, Wheaton, IL 60187
In the warmer months, Ivy in Wheaton has a beautiful patio featuring romantic string lights, a cool ambiance, and, you guessed it, ivy plants covering the buildings brick walls. What was once home to a church (see: their stained-glass windows and chapel ceilings), is now the perfect date-night spot for an intimate dinner for you and your partner. Ivy invites you to work your way through a menu full of food that will keep you wanting more. Or at least a glance at the dessert menu.
108 N Hale St, Wheaton, IL 60187
If a more casual setting is on the date-night agenda, Burger Social is the place for you. While “burger” is in the name, this spot offers so much more than the classic patty on a bun. Step outside the box and try a Spicy Nacho, Shrimp, or Korean BBQ burger, all made with ingredients sourced from our great Midwest. If burgers aren’t your thing, Burger Social also offers fresh salads and delicious sandwiches, along with classic and unique cocktails.
535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton, IL 60187
Sharing and compromise are two key parts of any successful relationship. At Adelle’s, you’ll have to work on both. Known for their sharable small plates, you and your partner can indulge in menu items like fried brussels sprouts, steak tartare, and pan-seared scallops. The compromise comes in when deciding who gets the last bite. This scratch kitchen restaurant also prides itself on using fresh ingredients with no preservatives or additives, which is a bonus on top of an already delicious menu.
This small village is a hidden gem when it comes to daytrip romantic dates. Check out the McAninch Arts Center and Stacy’s Tavern Museum, or grab another couple for a double date and challenge the Cluedin Escape Rooms. When you start to feel hungry, head over to one of these places below for a good meal!
433 N Main St, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
If you and your partner are big fans of fresh, homemade pasta, fire + wine is the place for you. Fire + wine is the perfect place to spend time with loved ones, browsing a long wine list, and picking out the perfect dish to pair it with. The staff here is incredibly knowledgeable and make awesome suggestions on house-favorites. Perfect ending to a spectacular meal? Indulging in your sweet tooth and picking something off the dessert menu. I’m always a sucker for gelato.
499 N Main St, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
At the end of another long week, you’re probably looking for a margarita and endless tacos, right? Right. A Toda Madre has everything you’re looking for. A fun setting to spend some quality time with your partner? Check. Nine different types of tacos to fulfill whatever you’re in the mood for? Yup. Settle in and eat to your heart’s content, because sometimes all you need is your partner, tasty food, and about five hand-shaken margaritas.
We don’t need to say more about how exciting Oak Brook is. If any, head out there to see the Princess Diana Exhibition that’s been getting all the buzz! Or simply enjoy a shopping date and spoil your loved one at the Oak Brook Center, then head over to one of these brilliant restaurants for an even better experience.
1415 22nd St, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Branzino, spaghetti neri, and prosciutto pizza. Should I continue? While Lucca Osteria specializes on a shorter menu, you won’t be left feeling like you missed out on anything. At this establishment, the chefs have perfected everything on the menu, down to the polenta. The savory, satisfying dishes at Lucca Osteria will have you and your partner ready to cuddle up on the couch and end date night in a perfect food-coma, binging the newest season of Love is Blind.
1410 16th St, Oak Brook, IL 60523
When you’re in the mood for some contemporary, upscale American dishes, J. Alexander’s is the way to go. This place is all about taking the food you know and love to the next level. While the menu is known to rotate their features, you can always find the classics like a French dip, slow roasted prime rib, and the well-known crispy chicken platter. Taking a stop at J. Alexander’s for date night will leave you looking forward to your next trip out west.
Featured Image Credit: Fire + Wine
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