20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Timberwolves/Heat OVER 225

The Minnesota Timberwolves are a great OVER team, especially of late.  They have scored 113 or more points in 12 of their last 17 games overall.  They have allowed 114 or more points in 11 of their last 15 games overall.  Minnesota ranks 4th in pace this season and 28th in defensive efficiency.

The Miami Heat have been a great OVER bet of late as well.  Indeed, the OVER is 7-0 in Heat last seven games overall.  They have combined with their opponents for 227 or more points in four straight games coming in and I think it's safe to say it will be five straight tonight as we cash this OVER 225 ticket.

Miami and Minnesota just met on April 16th with the Timberwolves pulling the 119-111 upset for 230 combined points.  The OVER is 5-0 in the last five meetings with each of the last three seeing 225 or more combined points.  They combined for 255 points at the end or regulation in their final meeting last season.  The OVER is also 8-1 in the last nine meetings with 225 or more combined points in six of those.

The OVER is 7-0 in Timberwolves last seven games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.  The OVER is 6-0 in Timberwolves last six games following an ATS loss.  Combine those unbeaten trends with the 5-0 and 7-0 trends from before and we have a perfect 25-0 system backing the OVER tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +14.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are getting healthy and playing for pride here down the stretch.  They have covered the spread in each of their last two games with a 3-point loss to the Suns as 15.5-point underdogs and a 4-point loss to the Kings as 5.5-point dogs.  And they should stay within 14.5 points of the Golden State Warriors tonight.

The Warriors are just a middle-of-the-pack NBA team and they shouldn't be laying 14.5 points to anyone.  They are without Wiseman and Paschall and could be without Oubre Jr., who is questionable tonight.  Steph Curry is scoring a ton of points and putting up huge numbers because he has to with this team that is lacking overall talent.  The Warriors just aren't that good, and Curry gets too many headlines giving them more respect than they deserve.

Oklahoma City is 34-17 ATS in its last 51 games as a road underdog.  Golden State is 1-4 ATS in its last five games as a favorite.  Take the Thunder Thursday.

20* NBA Thursday No-Doubt Rout on Chicago Bulls -2

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Chicago Bulls.  They have battled through injuries and are 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall against a brutal schedule with losses to the Knicks, Bucks, Hawks and 76ers.

Now the Bulls get a break in the schedule here as they come in on two days' rest, so they will be fresh and ready to go.  They will get their best player back in Zach LaVine from quarantine tonight and are as healthy as they have been all season with Nikola Vucevic also probable.  They still have an outside shot to make the playoffs with a big finish and will fight for it.

The Bulls take a step down in competition here against the Charlotte Hornets, who are 5-9 SU & 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall.  The Hornets are banged up right now as they are missing Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges, Devonte Graham and Cody Martin.  They won't fare well against the rested Bulls without those guys tonight.

The Bulls are 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS against the Hornets this season with two blowout victories by 13 points on the road and by 17 points at home.  It should be more of the same tonight.  Chicago is 7-0 ATS after losing six or seven of its last eight games this season.  Bet the Bulls Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +6.5

I love the spot for the San Antonio Spurs tonight.  They are highly motivated for a victory as they sit in 10th place in the West and currently in the playoffs if the season were to end today.  They lead the Pelicans by 2 games for that final playoff spot.

Now the Spurs want revenge from a 99-110 loss at Utah on Monday in what was a terrible spot for them.  The Spurs were coming off three straight losses by 5 points or less, were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 8th game in 13 days.  They had nothing left to give and still made that game competitive.

Now the Spurs come back as 6.5-point dogs in the rematch and had yesterday off to finally rest.  They should be able to put their best foot forward tonight, and that will be good enough to hang with and possibly beat a Utah Jazz team that just isn't as good without both Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley.  The Jazz have been held to 112 or fewer points in seven of their last eight games overall.  That's a big reason they are just 4-8 ATS in their last 12 games.

San Antonio is 25-5 ATS in its last 30 games when revenging a road loss by 10 points or more.  The Spurs are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 road games.  San Antonio is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven games overall.  Utah is 1-5 ATS in its last six home games.  Take the Spurs Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Bucks OVER 240.5

The Washington Wizards are an OVER bettors' dream.  They play at the fastest pace in the entire NBA averaging 106.3 possessions per game.  And they have been putting up huge point totals during their 13-3 SU run in their last 16 games.

Indeed, the Wizards have scored 116 or more points in 13 consecutive games now.  They are coming off a 154-141 victory over the Indiana Pacers in regulation.  And now they take on a Milwaukee Bucks team that also likes to get up and down.  The Bucks rank 3rd in pace this season at 104.1 possessions per game and 6th in offensive efficiency.

The OVER is 7-0 in the last seven meetings in this series including the 255 and 244 points the Wizards and Bucks combined for in their two meetings this season.  They have combined for 239 or more points in all seven of those meetings and 244 or more six times.  Enough said.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Philadelphia 76ers -13.5

The Philadelphia 76ers are determined to get the top seed in the Eastern Conference as they sit 1.5 games ahead of the Nets for 1st place.  They are playing like it as they have gone 5-0 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall with those five wins coming by an average of 22.2 points per game.

Now they should make easy work of the Houston Rockets, who are just 5-39 SU & 12-32 ATS in their last 44 games overall.  That includes two straight blowout home losses to the Warriors by 26 and the Knicks by 25 coming in.

The Rockets just can't even be competitive right now because they are missing so many key players like Gordon, Wall, House, Wilson and Brown.  Christian Wood will try to play through a knee injury, while DJ Augustin is questionable tonight.

Houston is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 home games after trailing in its previous game by 15 points or more at halftime.  Philadelphia is 8-2-1 ATS in its last 11 games as a road favorite.  The Rockets are 6-21 ATS in their last 27 games as home underdogs.  Philadelphia won't take Houston lightly tonight due to its current standing in the Eastern Conference.  Roll with the 76ers Wednesday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Washington Wizards +5

The Washington Wizards are surging right now as they try and make the playoffs.  They have gone 13-3 SU in their last 16 games overall with two of those losses coming by a combined 4 points.  Now they are catching 5 points from the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.

This is an awful spot for the Bucks, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 5th game in 7 days, and their 8th game in 13 days.  And they are coming off two straight wins over the Brooklyn Nets, so this is a huge letdown spot for them as well.  Not to mention they won't have anything left in the tank for the Wizards, who play at a break-neck pace and will test those tired legs.

Washington is 10-1 ATS after a win by 10 points or more this season.  The Wizards are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games overall.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five road games.  Bet the Wizards Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Portland Trail Blazers -11

The Portland Trail Blazers are starting to finally live up to their potential.  They have gone 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last four games overall with all four of those victories coming by double-digits and by an average of 17.8 points per game.  

The four wins came against Indiana, Memphis, Brooklyn and Boston so it's not like they are beating up against a soft schedule.  Their only loss came on the road at Atlanta in a very tough situation as they were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th road game in 7 days.

But now the Blazers are rested having yesterday off.  The same cannot be said for the Cavaliers, who are in an awful spot tonight playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after an overtime loss to the Phoenix Suns last night.  They are already missing several key players and they could rest some more starters after all five starters played at least 33 minutes last night.

The Cavaliers are now 1-10 SU & 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games overall with those 10 losses coming by an average of 13.0 points per game.  The Cavaliers are 1-12 ATS after failing to cover the spread in four or more consecutive games this season.  Portland beat Cleveland 129-110 at home in their lone meeting earlier this season.  The Blazers are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.  Take the Blazers Wednesday.

15* Raptors/Clippers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Toronto +9.5

The Toronto Raptors are fighting to stay alive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.  They have played three straight competitive road games against three of the best teams in the Western Conference in the Nuggets (10-point loss), Jazz (4-point loss) and Lakers (7-point outright win as 10.5-point dogs).

Now they face another of the top teams in the West in the Clippers and are catching too many points once again.  Asking the Clippers to win by double-digits to cover this spread with the way they are playing right now is asking too much.

The Clippers are 1-3 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.  They lost outright to both the Pelicans and Nuggets as favorites, lost by 8 at Phoenix, and only beat Houston by 5 as 9-point favorites.  They seem to be just going through the motions right now just waiting for the playoffs to get here.

The Raptors are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  The Clippers are 0-4 ATS in their last four games as favorites.  Toronto is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 road games vs. good shooting teams that make 48% of their shots or better.  Take the Raptors Tuesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on New Orleans Pelicans -2

The New Orleans Pelicans will be out for revenge after laying an egg last night against the Golden State Warriors.  They trailed by 20 points in the 1st quarter and never recovered, losing 108-123 as 2-point favorites.  Look for them to put forth a much better showing with their season on the line tonight.

The Warriors shot 53.4% as a team while the Pelicans shot just 43.3%.  The Pelicans also shot just 5-of-25 from 3-point range for 20%, while the Warriors shot 17-of-44 for 38.6%.  It's unlikely their will be that big of a disparity again from 3-point range.

The Warriors are 8-22-1 ATS in their last 31 games when playing on zero rest.  Golden State is 3-11 ATS after two or more consecutive wins this season.  The Pelicans are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall and should get back to playing how they were prior to this aberration of a game.  New Orleans is 5-1 ATS in its last six games following a loss by more than 10 points.  Bet the Pelicans Tuesday.

15* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

The Memphis Grizzlies will be highly motivated for a victory tonight after losing three of their last four games coming in.  This is a great time to 'buy low' on them as only 2.5-point home favorites over the New York Knicks tonight.

It's also a great time to 'sell high' on the Knicks, who have gone 14-1 ATS in their last 15 games overall and are finally starting to get too much respect from oddsmakers.  It's also a terrible spot for the Knicks playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a road win at Houston on Sunday.  They had to travel all the way to Memphis overnight.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies had yesterday off and come into this game as healthy as they have been all season.  They will also be motivated for revenge from a 129-133 road loss at New York less than a month ago on April 9th.  They blew a big 4th quarter lead in that game and eventually lost in OT.  They have not forgotten.

Plays against road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (New York) - after beating the spread by 30 or more points total in their last five games, against an opponent that went under the total by 24 or more points total in their last three games are 27-8 (77.1%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Memphis is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 home games.  The Knicks are 1-4 ATS in their last five trips to Memphis.  Take the Grizzlies Monday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Blazers/Hawks OVER 235

The Portland Trail Blazers are starting to play up to their potential offensively in going 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  They have scored 128 or more points in four straight and five of their last six games overall with their last four games all resulting in blowout victories.

Now the Blazers face an Atlanta Hawks team that is finally getting healthy and ready to score right with them.  The Hawks recently got Trae Young back from injury, and they'll get back one of their best shooters in Bogdan Bogdanovic tonight.  They can match the Blazers score for score tonight.

Portland ranks 6th in offensive efficiency and is one of the best offensive teams in the NBA in their current state.  Atlanta ranks 9th in offensive efficiency.  Portland is just 29th in defensive efficiency while Atlanta ranks 21st.

Atlanta is 9-1 OVER at home when the line is +3 to -3 this season.  The OVER is 17-5 in Blazers last 22 Monday games.  Portland is 14-4 OVER in its last 18 road games after scoring 110 points or more in four straight games.  Roll with the OVER in this game Monday.

20* Warriors/Pelicans ESPN No-Brainer on New Orleans -2

The New Orleans Pelicans (29-35) are in must-win mode.  They are in 11th place in the West and the top 10 teams make the playoffs.  One of the teams they are trailing for that final spot is the Golden State Warriors (32-32).  Knowing they have a chance to gain some ground here assures that they will be max motivated.

The Pelicans have come up clutch here of late with the pressure on.  They have played their best basketball of the season in going 3-1 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall with their only loss coming by 2 at Denver as 3.5-point dogs.  They crushed the Clippers by 17 in their lone home game during this stretch, while also beating Oklahoma City by 14 and Minnesota by 4 on the road.

The Warriors are 2-2 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games overall with their two wins coming against non-playoff contenders in the Kings and Rockets.  They also lost by 12 at Minnesota and by 30 at home to Dallas.  Now they will be without Kelly Oubre Jr. tonight, plus Andrew Wiggins is questionable.

The Warriors are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games as road underdogs.  Golden State is 16-33-2 ATS in its last 51 games following a win by more than 10 points.  New Orleans is 24-9 ATS in its last 33 Monday games.  Bet the Pelicans Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Sacramento Kings +7

This is an awful spot for the Dallas Mavericks.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a hard fought 125-124 victory over the Washington Wizards last night.  It will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Mavericks and the 8th game in 12 days.

Luka Doncic played 39 minutes last night and Dorian-Finney Smith played 40 minutes.  Both of those guys played through injury, as did Maxi Kleber.  Kristaps Porzingis sat out with a knee injury.  There's a good chance one or more of these players sit Sunday in this awful spot.

The Kings have remained competitive here down the stretch in going 4-3 SU in their last seven games and 6-2 ATS in their last eight games.  They have two upset wins over the Mavericks during this stretch already by 14 and 7 points.  And they just upset the Lakers as double-digit dogs.

The Kings are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games.  Sacramento is 5-1 ATS in its last six games as an underdog.  The Kings are 20-6-1 ATS in the last 27 meetings.  Sacramento is 6-1 ATS in its last seven trips to Dallas.  Roll with the Kings Sunday.

20* Blazers/Celtics NBA TV No-Brainer on Portland +2.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are finally healthy and playing up to their potential.  They are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their three games overall with three straight blowout road wins over the Pacers by 21, the Grizzlies by 21 and the Nets by 19.  And now they are underdogs to the Celtics today when they shouldn't be.

The Blazers want revenge from a 115-116 home loss to the Celtics on April 13th just three weeks ago.  They will get their revenge this time around against a Celtics team that is just 2-3 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.  Their only two victories during this stretch came against Charlotte and San Antonio at home.  They were upset as 8-point favorites by Charlotte and as 11-point favorites against Oklahoma City during this stretch.

The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games as underdogs.  Portland is 4-1 ATS in its last five road games.  Boston is 7-16-1 ATS in its last 24 games following a win.  The Celtics are 1-4 ATS in their last five games as favorites.  Boston will be without Kemba Walker today.  Bet the Blazers Sunday.

15* Nets/Bucks ABC ANNIHILATOR on Milwaukee -2

The Milwaukee Bucks will be highly motivated for a victory today when they host the Brooklyn Nets.  They have a chance to close the gap on the Nets today and move their way up in the Eastern Conference standings to try and get home-court advantage.

It's a great time to 'sell high' on the Nets, who are 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.  They are still without James Harden and are dealing with a handful of injuries.  The Bucks are playing well in going 4-2 SU in their last six games with all four wins coming by 7 points or more.  They won their last two home games in dominant fashion over the 76ers by a combined 45 points.

The Bucks want revenge from a 2-point road loss at Brooklyn in their lone meeting this season.  The Nets are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 Sunday games.  The Bucks are 27-11-1 ATS in the last 39 meetings.  Take the Bucks Sunday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Washington Wizards +6

The Washington Wizards are 12-2 SU in their last 14 games overall and playing as well as anyone in the NBA right now.  They are also 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games overall.  And now they are getting no respect here as 6-point underdogs to the Dallas Mavericks.

The oddsmakers are factoring in the back-to-back situation for the Wizards too much here.  But they blew out the Cavaliers 122-93 last night, which meant they could rest their starters for much of the 2nd half.  Bradly Beal played just 26 minutes last night and Russell Westbrook 31 while no other starter played more than 22 minutes.  The Wizards will still have plenty left in the tank tonight.

It's a good time to 'sell high' on the Mavericks after going 5-1 SU in their last six games overall against a very soft schedule.  Maxi Kleber, Kristaps Porzingis and Dorian Finney-Smith are all questionable for the Mavericks tonight while Luka Doncic will try and play through his elbow injury.  They shouldn't be favored by 6 here when they aren't close to full strength.

The Wizards are 9-0 ATS after winning three of their last four games this season.  Washington is 9-1 ATS after a win by 10 points or more this season.  Dallas is 5-15 ATS in its last 20 home games after a road win.  Washington is 25-10 ATS in its last 35 games playing on zero rest.  The Mavericks are 1-5 ATS in their last six games vs. a team with a losing record.  Bet the Wizards Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Timberwolves OVER 234.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been a juggernaut since they have gotten healthy.  They are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  They are clicking offensively with the trio of Towns, Edwards and Russell on the floor at the same time.  And they can score with anyone.

Minnesota is already a great OVER team because they rank 4th in the NBA in pace and 28th in defensive efficiency.  Now they take on a Pelicans team that ranks 12th in pace and 27th in defensive efficiency.  Both teams should score at will against two of the worst defenses in the NBA.

The OVER is 3-1 in the last four meetings and we've seen 227 or more combined points in all four meetings, including 240 and 273-point efforts.  These teams met in early March and Minnesota had 100 field goal attempts while New Orleans had 93 in a very fast-paced game.  It should be more of the same here in the rematch.

New Orleans is 7-0 OVER when playing its 3rd road game in 5 days this season.  Minnesota is 9-1 OVER after three or more consecutive ATS wins over the last two seasons.  The OVER is 39-19 in Pelicans last 58 games overall.  The OVER is 11-2 in Pelicans last 13 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The OVER is 14-6 in the last 20 meetings.  Take the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +6.5

The Indiana Pacers cannot be trusted to go on the road and lay 6.5 points to anyone in their current state.  They are banged up and coming off two straight blowout losses to Portland by 21 and Brooklyn by 17.

The injury report is ugly for the Pacers right now with Sabonis, Brodgon, Lamb and Sumner all questionable while Turner, Warren and Sampson are all out.  The Thunder are a lot healthier now than they were during their recent 14-game losing streak that just ended with an upset win over the Boston Celtics as double-digit road dogs.

Indiana is 0-7 ATS after allowing 130 points or more this season.  Oklahoma City is 27-13 ATS revenging a same-season loss over the last two seasons.  They only lost 116-122 at Indiana on April 21st less than two weeks ago.  They will be out for revenge here at home this time around.  Roll with the Thunder Saturday.

20* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Phoenix Suns -4

The Phoenix Suns are just one game behind the Utah Jazz for the top seed in the Western Conference.  So there will be no letdown here off their huge win over the Clippers on Thursday.  Look for the Suns to make easy work of the short-handed Jazz tonight.

The Jazz are getting too much respect off their blowout win at Sacramento last time out.  But remember they were upset as double-digit favorites by the Timberwolves in their two games prior.  And they are faltering of late in going just 6-10 ATS in their last 16 games overall.

The reason for this slide by the Jazz is simple.  They are overvalued due to having the best record in the West, and now they are playing without two of their best players in Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley.  They stand little chance of even being competitive with the Suns without those two.

Phoenix is a sensational 10-1 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less this season.  Utah is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Jazz are 0-7 ATS in their last seven Friday games.  The Suns are 27-12 ATS in their last 39 home games.  Phoenix is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The Jazz are 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings.  Take the Suns Friday.

25* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Portland Trail Blazers PK

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Portland Trail Blazers right now.  They recently went 1-7 over an eight-game stretch where they lost a ton of close games.  But they have since finally lived up to their potential after getting healthy in their last two games, blowing out Indiana by 21 and Memphis by 21 on the road.

Now is a great time to 'sell high' on the Brooklyn Nets, who are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  But the Nets have all kinds of injury problems right now.  They will be without James Harden, Kevin Durant is doubtful, and Kyrie Irving is questionable.  Bruce Brown is also questionable for the Nets.

Look for the Nets to likely play this cautiously with their stars because they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here, and they have a huge double-header coming up on deck against the Milwaukee Bucks that they want to be fully healthy for.  Durant played 36 minutes against the Pacers last night and will almost certainly sit with Harden.

Plays on road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (Portland) - after a blowout win by 20 points or more against an opponent that has scored 105 points or more in four straight games are 29-5 (85.3%) ATS since 1996.  The Nets are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games playing on zero rest.  Bet the Blazers Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +9.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are getting healthier here for the stretch run.  They can put their 14-game losing streak behind them and look to play for pride here with this young team that has a lot to prove.  They are coming off an upset win as 11-point dogs at Boston last time out.  Now the Thunder are rested after having yesterday off.  

The same cannot be said for the Pelicans, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a tough 112-114 loss in the altitude in Denver last night.  It will also be the 3rd game in 4 days for the Pelicans and 17th game in 29 days in April as they haven't had two days off in a row since the end of March.  

It's no wonder the Pelicans are just 2-6 SU In their last eight games overall.  They are also just 10-19 SU on the road this season.  Asking them to go on the road in this difficult rest spot and win by double-digits to cover this 9.5-point spread is asking too much tonight.

Oklahoma City is 22-9 ATS in its last 31 games after playing two consecutive road games.  The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last six games as favorites.  New Orleans is 1-5 ATS in its last six meetings with Oklahoma City.  Take the Thunder Thursday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Toronto Raptors +3

This is a very tough spot for the Denver Nuggets.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a narrow 114-112 win over the New Orleans Pelicans last night.  It will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Nuggets.

Compounding matters is that the Nuggets are without three of their best players in Jamal Murray, Monte Morris and Will Barton.  Playing a close game last night meant their starters had to play big minutes with Porter Jr playing over 39 minutes, Jokic over 36 and Campazzo over 36.  Being short-handed makes this spot even more difficult, and the Nuggets won't have much left in the tank tonight.

They face a rested, healthy Raptors team that had yesterday off and is highly motivated to make the playoffs.  The Raptors sit two games out of the playoffs with 10 games left, so they need wins like blood here down the stretch.  This is one they should get given the tough spot for the Nuggets.

Toronto is playing some of its best basketball of the season right now in going 5-2 SU & 5-2 ATS in its last seven games overall.  The Raptors are 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS in the last two meetings, including their 135-111 home win over the Nuggets in their first meeting this season.  Denver is 4-12 ATS when revenging a loss this season.  Toronto is 11-1 ATS in its last 12 road games vs. good shooting teams that make 48% or better.  Bet the Raptors Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Nuggets UNDER 229.5

Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS.  This will be the 3rd meeting between the Pelicans and Nuggets in the last month or so.  And the first two stayed well UNDER this 229.5-point total.  In fact, this has been a low-scoring series in general.

The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings and 6-1 in the last seven meetings.  The Pelicans and Nuggets have combined for 229 or fewer points in each of the last five meetings.  They have combined for 221 or fewer points in each of the last four with an average of 218.3 combined points per game, which is roughly 11 points less than tonight's posted total of 229.5.

Now the Nuggets are without their top two point guards in Jamal Murray and Monte Morris and they are also without another key scorer and ball-handler in Will Barton.  The Nuggets are built for lower scoring games now without those guys as they have to slow it down and play through Nikola Jokic on offense.  And they have been a much better defensive team since trading for Aaron Gordon.

The Nuggets and their opponents have combined for 229 or fewer points in seven of their last nine games overall.  The Pelicans and their opponents have combined for 227 or fewer points at the end of regulation in eight of their last 10 games overall.

The UNDER is 6-0 in Nuggets last six games vs. a team with a losing record.  The UNDER is 7-2 in Pelicans last nine games as underdogs.  The UNDER Is 4-0 in Pelicans last four games vs. a team with a winning record.  The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings in Denver.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blazers/Grizzlies UNDER 240.5

Familiarity favors defense and low-scoring games.  Well, the Grizzlies and Blazers will be playing for the 3rd time in 6 days tonight.  After a shootout win by Memphis in their first meeting on April 23rd, the Grizzlies came back and won 120-113 for 233 combined points in the rematch on April 25th. 

The total was 232.5 in the first meeting and 235.5 in the second meeting.  Now oddsmakers have set this number way higher at 240.5 for the third meeting tonight, which is way too high and the move is not justified.  We'll gladly take the value on the UNDER given the great spot for a defensive battle with the familiarity.

The UNDER is 33-12 in Grizzlies last 45 home games.  The UNDER is 14-3 in Grizzlies last 17 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The UNDER is 7-3 in Blazers last 10 games overall.  The UNDER is 5-2 in the last seven meetings in Memphis.  Take the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Spurs/Heat UNDER 213

Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS.  And the Spurs and Heat just met on April 21st one week ago today with the Heat winning 107-87 for just 194 combined points.  Now the oddsmakers have come back with a 213-point total for the rematch and it's simply too high tonight.

Miami and its opponents have combined for 212 or fewer points in four of its last five games overall.  The Heat are built for low-scoring games.  They rank 28th in pace at 98.7 possessions per game and 5th in defensive efficiency, giving up just 107.6 points per 100 possessions.  They also rank 24th in offensive efficiency.

The UNDER is 6-1 in Spurs' last seven games overall.  They have combined with their opponents for 213 or fewer points in five of those even games with the only exceptions being against the Pelicans and Wizards, which are two teams built for OVERS due to playing at fast paces and playing no defense.

Plays on the UNDER on road teams where the total is 210 to 219.5 (San Antonio) - revenging a blowout loss by 20 points or more, a tired team playing 6 or more games in 10 days are 51-19 (72.9%) since 1996.  San Antonio is 11-3 UNDER when revenging a same-season loss this season.

The UNDER is 4-1 in the last five meetings with combined scores of 215 or fewer points in all five meetings and an average of just 201.4 combined points per game.  That's roughly 12 points less than tonight's posted total of 213.  Roll with the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Philadelphia 76ers -7.5

It's a rare opportunity to 'buy low' on the Philadelphia 76ers.  They had lost four straight before blasting Oklahoma City by 31.  And now they are only 7.5-point home favorites over the depleted Atlanta Hawks tonight.

The Hawks will be without Trae Young, Cam Reddish, De'Andre Hunter, Tony Snell and Kevin Huerter tonight.  They just lost outright to the Pistons by 14 last time out without Young and most of those guys, and they don't stand much of a chance to stay competitive here against a 76ers team that is basically at full strength now.

Home-court advantage has been huge in this series as the home team is a perfect 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings.  The 76ers are 23-7 at home this season and have been one of the best home teams in the NBA over the past couple seasons.

Philadelphia is 35-22 ATS in all home games over the last two seasons.  The 76ers are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 home games after failing to cover four or five of their last six games.  Atlanta is 5-15 ATS in its last 20 games as a road underdog of 6.5 to 12 points.  Bet the 76ers Wednesday.

20* Mavs/Warriors TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Golden State -2.5

The Golden State Warriors are surging right now to try and make the playoffs behind a historic month from Stephen Curry shooting 3-pointers.  The Warriors are 7-2 SU & 7-2 ATS in their last nine games overall with their only losses coming at Boston by 5 and at Washington by 4.  They have two upset wins over Denver during this stretch.

Now the Warriors are rested after having yesterday off and take on a tired Dallas Mavericks team that will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They just lost 106-113 in Sacramento last night and won't have much left in the tank for the Warriors.  

Plus, Kristaps Porzingis and Josh Richardson are both questionable to play tonight, and don't be surprised if Luka Doncic is a late scratch after showing up on the injury report prior to yesterday's game.  Doncic played nearly 38 minutes last night in that loss to the Kings.

Dallas is 6-16 ATS when playing 8 or more games in 14 days this season.  The Mavericks are 2-7 ATS in their last nine games overall.  Dallas is 0-4 ATS in its last four games following a loss.  Golden State is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games as a home favorite.  The Warriors are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following an ATS loss.  Bet the Warriors Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Undervalued Underdog on Toronto Raptors +6

The Toronto Raptors have gotten healthy here down the stretch and are fighting hard to make the playoffs.  They currently sit in a tie for 11th place in the East just one game behind the Wizards for that 10th spot, and the top 10 teams make the playoffs this year.  They need this game like blood.

The Raptors are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall and are coming off an 18-point win over Cleveland last night.  So they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, but the situation is eased because none of their starters played big minutes last night due to the blowout.  They will have no problem finding the energy to get up to face the Brooklyn Nets tonight.

Toronto just beat Brooklyn 114-103 at home on April 21st less than a week ago.  Granted, they didn't have to face Kevin Durant in that game, but he won't make a big enough difference here.  The Raptors go from being a 4.5-point favorite in that first meeting to a 6-point underdog in the rematch, a 10.5-point adjustment which is too much for this situation.

The Nets are 1-4 ATS in their last five games as road favorites.  The Raptors are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games.  Toronto is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings, and 6-0 SU & 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings in this series.  Take the Raptors Tuesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Bucks/Hornets OVER 223.5

The books have set the bar too low tonight for this game between the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets.  Based off the first two meetings this season, this game should have no problem getting OVER 223.5 combined points.

The Hornets actually beat the Bucks in both meetings.  They won 126-114 at home for 240 combined points and 227-119 on the road for 246 combined points.  The Hornets just scored 125 points against the Celtics last time out and should be able to hang with Milwaukee, which has scored 115 or more points in eight of its last nine games coming in.

Milwaukee games have seen 226 or more combined points in six of their last seven games overall.  The OVER is 10-4 in Bucks last 14 games following an ATS loss.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Grizzlies/Nuggets UNDER 228.5

The Grizzlies and Nuggets just met one week ago today with the Nuggets winning 139-137 in double-overtime.  Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS, and I think we see a much lower scoring game in the rematch tonight.

That game was tied 116-116 at the end of regulation for 232 combined points.  It was a rare high-scoring game in this series.  They had combined for 205 and 200 points in their previous two meetings.  The UNDER is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings.  And I think they don't come close to topping 228.5 combined points tonight.

They Nuggets are without their top two point guards in Jamal Murray and Monte Morris and could be without another guard in Will Barton, who is questionable with a hamstring injury.  The Grizzlies could be without Jaren Jackson Jr. tonight, who is questionable.  And Memphis won't be looking to push the tempo playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a win in Portland yesterday and now having to go to the altitude in Denver.

Plays on the UNDER On road teams where the total is 220 or higher (Memphis) - revenging a same-season loss, a tired team playing their 4th road game in 7 days are 58-26 (69%) since 1996.  It's actually their 7th straight road game and their tired legs will affect their shooting tonight.  Take the UNDER in this game Monday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Bulls/Heat UNDER 207

I really like the UNDER in this spot between the Bulls and Heat.  They just played on Saturday and now will be rematching on Monday.  Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS, and these teams just played to a 207-point game on Saturday.  It will be even lower-scoring in the rematch.

It will actually be the 3rd meeting between these teams in less than two months as well.  They combined for just 191 points in Chicago on March 12th before coming for 207 points on April 24th.  That game was a very low-possession game as the Heat attempted just 80 shots while the Bulls attempted 79.

Chicago has had to rely on defense without leading scorer Zach LaVine.  They have held their last five opponents to an average of just 102.0 points per game.  But their offense has taken a hit as well in scoring just 104.4 points per game in their last five.  The Heat are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA ranking 5th in defensive efficiency this season.  They are also one of the slowest teams, ranking 29th in pace.

The UNDER is 15-7 in Heat last 22 vs. a team with a losing record.  The UNDER is 8-3 in the last 11 meetings in Miami.  The UNDER is 4-0 in Bulls last four Monday games.  The UNDER is 10-3 in Heat last 13 Monday games.  Bet the UNDER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday UPSET SHOCKER on New York Knicks +3

What more do the New York Knicks have to do to get some respect from oddsmakers?  They have gone 10-2 SU & 12-0 ATS in their last 12 games overall with their only two losses both coming by exactly 2 points on the road to Brooklyn and Boston.  They have won and covered nine straight since those defeats with six wins by double-digits.

Now the Knicks are rested and ready to go playing just their 2nd game in 5 days and ready to extend their winning streak to 10 games.  They take on a tired Phoenix Suns team that is playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 119-128 shootout loss at Brooklyn yesterday.  The Suns won't have enough left in the tank to match the energy level of the Knicks tonight.

New York is 16-1 ATS at home when the line is +3 to -3 this season.  The Suns are 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven road games.  Take the Knicks Monday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Detroit Pistons +5

The Detroit Pistons have remained competitive despite being out of playoff contention.  And they are basically as healthy as they have been all season now with their best player in Jerami Grant (22.6 PPG) back in the lineup.

While the Pistons are rested after having yesterday off, the Atlanta Hawks will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days tonight.  This is also a huge letdown spot for the Hawks after two straight upset home victories over the Heat and Bucks their past two games.

They managed to win those games without Trae Young, Tony Snell, De'Andre Hunter and Cameron Reddish.  And all four will remain out tonight.  So being short-handed in this 5 in 7 days spot will make it even that much more difficult.  All five starters played at least 29 minutes for the Hawks last night.

Detroit is 20-5 ATS following an ATS loss this season.  The Pistons are 11-3 ATS after three or more consecutive losses this season.  The Hawks are 7-15-1 ATS in their last 23 games playing on zero rest.  Bet the Pistons Monday.

20* NBA Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Cavs/Wizards OVER 228.5

Any total that is under 230 points in a Wizards game is low and I'm going to be looking to back the OVER in these situations.  The Wizards are the perfect OVER team as they play at the fastest pace in the NBA at 106.5 possessions per game, which is nearly two possessions more than the next-fastest team.

The Wizards have really found their stride offensively with Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal finally healthy.  They have gone 9-1 SU in their last 10 games overall while scoring at least 117 points in each of their last seven games during this seven-game winning streak.

The Wizards should be able to name their score against a Cavaliers team that ranks 20th in defensive efficiency giving up 110.6 points per 100 possessions.  And I expect Cleveland to try and keep pace with the Wizards in this one and score enough to help push this game OVER the number.

Plays on the OVER on all teams where the total is 220 to 229.5 (Washington) - after two or more consecutive wins, with a losing record on the season are 118-61 (65.9%) over the last five seasons.  Take the OVER in this game Sunday.

25* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Portland Trail Blazers -4

The Portland Trail Blazers are already highly motivated for a win Sunday after dropping four straight and six of their last seven all by single-digits.  They have four losses by a combined 5 points during this stretch.

That includes their 128-130 home loss to the Grizzlies on Friday.  Now the Blazers don't have to wait long for revenge as they host the Grizzlies again here two days later.  They will be the more motivated team, and that will lead to an easy win and cover as identical 4-point favorites that they were in the first meeting.

The Grizzlies are likely to be without Jonas Valanciunas again, and now they will also be without Jaren Jackson Jr., who has averaged 19.0 PPG since returning from injury.  He had 23 points in just under 25 minutes against the Blazers on Friday as they had no answer for him.  HIs loss is a big one.

Plays against underdogs (Memphis) - off an upset win as a road underdog, in a game involving two marginal winning teams (51% to 60%) are 91-54 (62.8%) ATS since 1996.  Plays on favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (Portland) - revenging a loss where opponent scored 100 or more points, while also off two or more consecutive home losses are 80-45 (64%) ATS since 1996.  

Portland is 8-2 ATS following two or more consecutive losses this season.  The home team is 7-1 SU & 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.  Bet the Blazers Sunday.

15* Suns/Nets ESPN ANNIHILATOR on Phoenix +2.5

The Phoenix Suns are coming off a loss to the Boston Celtics on the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They have since had two days off to rest and get ready for this game with Brooklyn.  And the Suns haven't lost two in a row since late-January.  Phoenix is a perfect 9-0 SU & 9-0 ATS in its last nine games following a loss.

While the Suns are almost fully healthy, the Nets will be without James Harden once again.  They should have Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but that won't be enough to take down the Suns.  And it's also a much tougher rest spot for the Nets who will be playing their 8th game in 13 days.

Phoenix also wants revenge from blowing a 21-point halftime lead in their first meeting this season to the Nets.  The Suns are 9-1 ATS off an upset loss as a road favorite over the last two seasons.  Brooklyn is 4-17 ATS in its last 21 home games after two consecutive division games.  The Suns are 15-3 ATS in their last 18 games following a loss.  Phoenix is 7-1 ATS in its last eight games as road underdogs.  Roll with the Suns Sunday.

20* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Minnesota Timberwolves +13.5

You're paying a tax to back the Utah Jazz at this point due to having the best record in the NBA at 44-15.  That tax has made it a profitable move to fade the Jazz here down the stretch as they are just 5-8 ATS in their last 13 games overall.

Now the Jazz shouldn't be laying 13.5 points against almost anyone because they are without their best player in Donovan Mitchell (26.4 PPG, 5.2 APG).  They are good enough to still win this game, but asking them to win by 14-plus points to beat us is asking too much.

The Timberwolves are playing their best basketball of the season here down the stretch.  They have recent upset wins over the Heat by 8 as 7-point dogs and the Kings by 14 as 3.5-point dogs.  The trio of Karl-Anthony Towns, De'Angelo Russell and Anthony Edwards are showing what they are capable of playing together and having a lot of fun despite being eliminated from the playoffs.  They will relish this opportunity to try and take down the 'best' team in the NBA.

The Timberwolves are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 games following a loss.  Minnesota is 14-3 ATS in its last 17 games vs. top-caliber teams that outscore their opponents by 9-plus points per game in the 2nd half of the season.  Take the Timberwolves Saturday.

20* NBA Saturday No-Doubt Rout on New Orleans Pelicans -2

The New Orleans Pelicans are sitting in 11th place in the Western Conference.  They are 3.5 games behind the Spurs for the 10th and final playoff spot.  It's safe to say this is a must-win for them, and they will be playing their most inspired basketball of the season tonight because of it.

It should be enough to get the win and cover against the Spurs are mere 2-point home favorites here tonight.  The Pelicans are coming off one of their best performances of the season in a 135-100 road win over the Magic to end a four-game losing streak in which they were in every game but just couldn't pull it out late.

Nobody has played a tougher schedule rest-wise than the Spurs since the All-Star Break.  THey haven't had two days off in a row since the break.  They will be playing their 25th game in 42 days here.  It's no wonder the Spurs are just 7-13 SU in their last 20 games overall.

The home team has won both meetings this season.  The Spurs are 1-7 ATS in their last eight games following a win by more than 10 points.  Stan Van Gundy is 40-19 ATS in home games after having lost four of his last five games as a head coach.  This is a great 'buy low' spot on the inspired Pelicans tonight.  Bet the Pelicans Saturday.

15* Nuggets/Warriors ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on Golden State +2.5

The Denver Nuggets have managed to go 4-0 SU in their four games since losing Jamal Murray to injury.  But their luck runs out tonight after winning their last two games over Memphis and Portland by a combined 3 points.

The Warriors simply need wins more right now as they are fighting to make the playoffs.  And they have come up very clutch here down the stretch with the pressure on.  The Warriors are 5-2 SU & 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall with their only losses both coming on the road to Boston by 5 and Washington by 4, two teams that are playing very well right now.

One of those wins during this stretch came 116-107 at home over Denver as 5-point dogs.  Steph Curry scored 53 points as the Nuggets had no answer for him.  And he is playing as well as he ever has right now, plus he is getting some help from Andrew Wiggins and Kelly Oubre Jr that he didn't have before.

The Warriors are 6-1 ATS in their last seven meetings with the Nuggets.  Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last five home games.  The Warriors are 29-14 ATS in their last 43 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.  Denver is 0-4-1 ATS in its last five trips to Golden State.  The Nuggets are 0-8 ATS in road games when revenging a road loss this season.  Roll with the Warriors Friday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Wizards/Thunder OVER 228.5

The Washington Wizards are one of the best OVER teams in the NBA and it's rare that you see one of their totals set lower than 230.  We'll take advantage today.  The Wizards rank 1st in pace this season at 106.4 possessions per game and their offense has taken off since getting Bradley Beal back from injury.

The Wizards have scored at least 117 points in six consecutive games now.  They should be able to name their number against a Thunder team that has just quit playing defense.  The Thunder have gone 0-12 SU in their last 12 games overall and it's largely due to that lack of defense.

Indeed, the Thunder have allowed at least 110 points in 11 of those 12 games and are giving up an average of 123.5 points per game during this 12-game skid.  But they have scored at least 104 points in five straight games and should be able to put up enough points to help us cash this OVER.

Plays on the OVER on road teams where the total is 220 to 229.5 (Washington) after two or more consecutive wins, with a losing record on the season are 56-20 (73.7%) over the last five seasons.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH on Miami Heat -5

The Miami Heat have finally gotten healthy and are starting to play like the team that made it all the way to the NBA Finals last year.  They are currently the 7th seed in the East and want to avoid the play-in at all costs.  They trail the Celtics for the 6th seed by just one game, and the Top 6 teams don't have to play in the play-in games.

The Heat have made a statement here of late by going 9-4 SU in their last 13 games, including 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three with an upset win over the Nets as 5-point dogs, a 22-point home win over the Rockets and a 20-point road win over the Spurs.

Now the Heat take on a depleted Atlanta Hawks team that will be missing their best player in Trae Young (25.3 PPG, 9.6 APG).  He left the Knicks' game last time out and they blew a big lead and went on to lose in overtime.  The Hawks will also be without DeAndre Hunter, Cam Reddish, Danilo Gallinari and Tony Snell.  They could be without Clint Capela, who is questionable.

Plays against home underdogs (Atlanta) - after covering four or five of their last six ATS, in a game involving two marginal winning teams (51% to 60%) are 42-15 (73.7%) ATS since 1996.  The Hawks are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games vs. a team with a winning record.  Bet the Heat Friday.

15* Lakers/Mavs TNT Total DOMINATOR on OVER 216.5

The Dallas Mavericks just aren't playing any defense right now.  They have allowed 113 or more points in six straight games now after their 127-117 win over the Pistons last night that saw 244 combined points.  This game against the Lakers should have no problem topping 216.5 combined points.

The Lakers have allowed 111 or more points in three straight games and four of their last five contests.  Their offense should get a boost tonight with the return of Anthony Davis to the lineup after missing the past couple months with an Achilles injury.  Now the Lakers are near full strength as they are only missing LeBron James.

This has been a very high-scoring head-to-head series in recent meetings.  Indeed, the OVER is 2-0 in the last two meetings with combined scores of 243 and 253 points.  That's an average of 248 combined points per game, so we are getting some great value here on the OVER 216.5 based off those recent results.

The OVER is 6-2 in Lakers last eight games overall.  The OVER is 4-1 in Lakers last five road games. The OVER is 4-1 in Mavericks last five games as a favorite.  Take the OVER in this game Thursday. 

20* 76ers/Bucks TNT No-Brainer on Milwaukee -5.5

The Milwaukee Bucks will be highly motivated for a victory tonight.  After winning three straight road games by a combined 73 points, the Bucks have come back and lost their last two home games in upset fashion to the Grizzlies and Suns, two teams playing some great basketball right now.

The Bucks are fully healthy and rested and primed for a big effort tonight.  They come in on two days' rest having last played Phoenix on Monday.  Meanwhile, the 76ers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after a tough 113-116 home loss to the Phoenix Suns last night.

Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris and Seth Curry all sat out last night and are questionable to return tonight with various injuries and illnesses.  Now Joel Embiid is questionable with a knee injury and could sit on this 2nd of a back-to-back after playing nearly 33 minutes and scoring 38 points against the Suns last night.

The Bucks have owned the 76ers in going 9-4 SU in the last 13 meetings eight of those nine wins coming by 6 points or more.  The 76ers are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 games as road underdogs.  Milwaukee is 5-1 ATS in its last six home meetings with Philadelphia.  Bet the Bucks Thursday.

20* NBA Wednesday UPSET SHOCKER on Memphis Grizzlies +2

The Memphis Grizzlies have quietly gone 15-3 ATS in their last 18 games overall.  They have been underrated for over a month now.  They beat the Bulls by 11 and the Bucks by 13 in in their last two road games before losing in double-overtime at Denver despite leading basically the entire way.

Now the Grizzlies come in rested after having yesterday off.  The same cannot be said for the Clippers, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 113-112 win over the Blazers without Damian Lillard in Portland last night.  They will also be playing their 5th game in 7 days and their 9th game in 14 days here.  

The Clippers won't have Kawhi Leonard, Serge Ibaka or Patrick Beverly again tonight.  Paul George played 36 minutes last night and it wouldn't be surprising if he rests either.  Either way, being short-handed already makes this spot even more difficult for the Clippers tonight.

Plays against all teams where the line is +3 to -3 (LA Clippers) - a good team outscoring opponents by 6-plus points per game, after allowing 105 points or more in three straight games are 43-16 (72.9%) ATS since 1996.  The Grizzlies are 7-1 ATS in their last eight road games and 6-0 ATS in their last six games as underdogs.  Bet the Grizzlies Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Heat/Spurs UNDER 215.5

Two teams that prefer to play at slow paces square off tonight in the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs.  The Heat rank 28th in the NBA in pace this season while the Spurs rank 17th.  The Heat are 5th in defensive efficiency while the Spurs are 12th.  Miami is 23rd in offensive efficiency while San Antonio is 18th.

The UNDER is 3-0 in San Antonio's last three games overall as they combined for 213 points with Portland, 196 points with Phoenix and 203 points with Indiana.  The UNDER is 4-2 in Heat last six games overall as they combined for 205 points with Portland, 192 points with Phoenix, 216 points with Brooklyn and 204 points with Houston.

The Heat and Spurs have combined for 215 or fewer points in each of their lsat four meetings.  They combined for 209, 206, 215 and 183 points in those four meetings, respectively.  That's an average of just 203.3 combined points per game, which is more than 12 points less than tonight's posted total of 215.5.

The UNDER is 10-3 in Heat last 13 road games.  Miami is 8-0 UNDER in its last eight road games following two or more consecutive wins.  The UNDER is 11-4 in Spurs last 15 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  Take the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +10.5

The Dallas Mavericks aren't playing well enough right now to be laying double-digits to the Detroit Pistons.  The Mavericks are 1-4 SU & 0-5 ATS in their last five games overall which includes upset home losses to the Kings as 8.5-point favorites, the Knicks as 6.5-point favorites and the Spurs as 6-point favorites.  They also lost by 18 at home to the 76ers and their lone victory came by a single point at Memphis on a buzzer-beater.

The Detroit Pistons continue to play prideful basketball despite basically being eliminated from playoff contention.  They are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall which includes two narrow defeats to one of the best teams in the NBA in the Clippers by 7 points on the road and by 2 points at home.

Now the Pistons get a big boost tonight as their best player in Jerami Grant is expected to return from a hamstring injury.  He has only played in two of their last seven games overall.  He averages 22.4 points per game and is one of the most improved players in the NBA.  Also, Cory Joseph (7.5 PPG, 3.2 APG) is expected to return from Bronchitis.

Plays against home favorites of 10 or more points (Dallas) - off an upset loss as a home favorite, a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) playing a bad team (25% to 40%) are 35-13 (72.9%) ATS since 1996.  Dallas is 1-9 ATS when playing against a bad team (25% to 40%) this season.  The Mavericks are 1-9 ATS after having lost four or five of their last six games this season.  Take the Pistons Wednesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Warriors/Wizards UNDER 239.5

Both the Warriors and Wizards are fighting to make the playoffs in their respective conferences.  Both are surging right now with the Warriors going 5-1 SU in their last six games and the Wizards going 7-1 SU in their last eight games.  The turnarounds have come with some improved play on the defensive end of the floor from both teams.

The defensive intensity will be high in this game with both teams having a lot to play for.  And these teams just met on April 9th earlier this month with the Wizards winning 110-107 for 217 combined points, which is 22.5 points less than this 239.5-point total in the rematch.  So these teams are very familiar with one another having played less than two weeks ago, and familiarity favors defense and UNDERS.

The UNDER is 13-5 in Warriors last 18 road games.  The UNDER is 39-19 in Warriors last 58 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.  The UNDER is 9-3 in Wizards last 12 games overall.  The UNDER is 5-0 in Wizards last five home games.  

Golden State is 11-1 UNDER after covering three of its last four games this season.  Washington is 9-0 UNDER after two straight games where they attempted 90 or more shots this season.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Tuesday Undervalued Underdog on Orlando Magic +12.5

The Orlando Magic are showing great value today as double-digit underdogs to the Atlanta Hawks. It's time to 'buy low' on the Magic, who have gone just 1-8 SU in their last nine games overall.

But the Magic have been competitive of late with an upset win over the Bulls, an 11-point loss to the Raptors and a 4-point loss to the Rockets. They still have some good talent in Wendell Carter Jr., Gary Harris, Cole Anthony and company to keep them competitive the rest the way.

It's also a great time to 'sell high' on the Atlanta Hawks after going 8-2 SU & 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall. Atlanta has only been a double-digit favorite once all season to this point, and that was a 10.5-point favorite over Detroit in their third game of the season. Atlanta is 1-3 ATS as a favorite of -7.5 or more this season.

The Hawks haven't won any of their past 14 meetings with the Magic by more than 8 points. That makes for a 14-0 system backing the Magic pertaining to this 12.5-point spread. Bet the Magic Tuesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on New Orleans Pelicans -3

The New Orleans Pelicans will be highly motivated for a victory tonight. They have lost three straight games coming in including the last two by 2 points and in OT to the Knicks. They will get back on track here against the short-handed Brooklyn Nets.

The Nets will be without both James Harden and Kevin Durant tonight. Kyrie Irving isn't good enough to carry the load without both of those guys. While the Pelicans are fighting to make the playoffs and have more to play for at this point, the Nets are just trying to get healthy going into the postseason.

Plays on home teams (New Orleans) - revenging a loss by 10 points or more who are also off two consecutive upset losses as road favorites are 24-5 (82.8%) ATS since 1996. Take the Pelicans Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Memphis Grizzlies +8

The Memphis Grizzlies have been grossly undervalued for weeks. They are playing their best basketball of the season right now and should not be catching 8 points against the Denver Nuggets. 

The Grizzlies are 11-6 SU & 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games overall. In those 17 games, they have lost by more than 7 points just once, making for a 16-1 system favoring them today pertaining to this 8-point spread.

If Denver was at full strength then maybe they could be close to an 8-point favorite here. But the fact that they are without their top two point guards in Jamal Murray and Monte Morris makes it obvious that they should not be 8-point favorites.

Denver is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games after two straight wins by 10 points or more. Memphis is 6-0 ATS in its last six games vs. a team with a winning record. The Grizzlies are 6-2-1 ATS in the last nine meetings. Roll with the Grizzlies Monday.

15* Suns/Bucks Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Milwaukee -2

The Milwaukee Bucks are back to being fully healthy and are one of the best teams in the NBA when they are. We are getting them at a great value today as only 2-point home favorites over the Phoenix Suns.

The Bucks will be motivated to try and catch the Nets and 76ers for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a loss and facing a Suns team that has the second-best record in the Western Conference, so they will have no problem getting motivated to face them.

The Suns are finally starting to get too much respect from oddsmakers here late in the season due to that record after being undervalued pretty much all the way up until this point. They have failed to cover their last two games with an 8-point win over the Kings as 12.5-point favorites and a 26-point outright loss to the Spurs as 12.5-point favorites.

The Suns are 1-4 ATS in their last five road games. The Bucks are 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games following an upset loss by 10 points or more. Milwaukee wants revenge from a one-point loss in Phoenix as 4-point favorites in their first meeting this season. Now they are just 2-point home favorites in the rematch, so you can see the line value. The home team is 4-0 SU in the last four meetings. Take the Bucks Monday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Spurs/Pacers UNDER 232

The Indiana Pacers are a tired team right now. They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 5th game in 7 days and their 9th game in 14 days. They won't be looking to push the tempo today against the San Antonio Spurs.

The Spurs are more than comfortable playing at a slow pace. They rank 18th in pace this season and 18th in offensive efficiency. Both teams rank in the Top 13 in defensive efficiency. This 232-point total is simply too high tonight.

It has been inflated due to a recent high-scoring game that went to overtime between these teams on April 3rd. But familiarity favors defense and UNDERS, and it was a rare high scoring game in this series. In fact, 20 of the last 21 meetings have seen 231 or fewer combined points, making for a 20-1 system backing the UNDER pertaining to this 232-point total. Bet the UNDER in this game Monday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Kings/Mavericks OVER 229.5

Defense is usually optional for the Kings and Mavericks, especially the Kings. Sacramento ranks 30th in defensive efficiency this season while Dallas ranks 17th. The Kings also like to push the tempo as they rank 8th in pace. This game should sail OVER the number tonight.

The OVER is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings and 4-1 in the last five meetings. The OVER is 20-8 in the last 28 meetings in Dallas. The Mavericks are 8-1 OVER in their last nine games after failing to cover the spread four of their last five games. The OVER is 14-3 in Mavericks last 17 games after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games. Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Blazers/Hornets OVER 217

It's time to 'buy low' on a Blazers OVER. They have gone under the total in four of their last five games overall. But they are still a dead nuts OVER team even without Damian Lillard because they still have McCollum, Powell and Carmelo Anthony running the show.

Portland and its opponents have combined for 221 or more points in 18 of their last 21 games overall. So this 217-point total is too low based on that. And Charlotte has no problem playing in a shootout, either. Charlotte and its opponents have combined for 218 or more points in 18 of their last 30 games overall.

The OVER is 3-0-1 in the last four meetings with combined scores of 223 or more points in all four games. The OVER is 4-0 in Blazers last four games as road favorites. The OVER is 8-1 in Blazers last nine non-conference road games. Portland is 37-19 OVER when the total is 210-219.5 over the last three seasons. The Blazers are 10-1 OVER in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a losing record in the second half of the season. Take the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Spurs/Suns UNDER 229

Two teams that play at slow tempos square off tonight when the San Antonio Spurs visit the Phoenix Suns. The Suns rank 25th in pace this season while the Spurs rank 18th.

The first meeting between these teams was very low-scoring and played at a snail's pace. The Suns beat the Spurs 103-99 for just 202 combined points with a total of 225. Now we have a 229-point total for the rematch, which is way too high.

The UNDER is 4-0 in Spurs last four games vs. a team with a winning record. Take the UNDER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Los Angeles Lakers +6.5

This is a tough spot for the Utah Jazz. They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a big comeback win over the Indiana Pacers yesterday. And now they will likely be without their best player in Donovan Mitchell, who had to have X-Rays on his foot after the game yesterday.

You're definitely paying a tax to back the Jazz at this point due to having the best record in the NBA, and that has shown of late as they are just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games overall. It's a great time to 'sell high' on the Jazz.

It's also a good time to 'buy low' on the Lakers. They are coming off a loss to the Celtics and have been great off a loss. The Lakers are a perfect 5-0 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a loss. Bet the Lakers Saturday.

15* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Portland Trail Blazers -2

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Portland Trail Blazers after going 1-4 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.  The four losses came to the Clippers, Jazz, Heat and Celtics.  Now they are highly motivated for a victory and take a big step down in class here against the San Antonio Spurs.

The Blazers are also rested playing on two days' rest since their one-point loss to the Celtics on Tuesday.  Meanwhile, it's a terrible spot for the Spurs as they play their first home game following a five-game road trip. 

I always like fading teams in their first home game back from an extended road trip because there are so many distractions they have to deal with.  And the Spurs are simply a tired team right now playing their 20th game in 37 days.  It's no wonder they are just 4-11 SU in their last 15 games overall.

San Antonio is 1-8 ATS in its last nine games after scoring 110 points or more in three straight games.  Portland is 4-0 ATS in its last four games vs. a team with a losing record.  The Spurs are 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  Take the Blazers Friday.

15* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Heat/Timberwolves OVER 219.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves are a dead nuts OVER team right now with Karl-Anthony Towns and De'Angelo Russell running the show.  They rank 3rd in the NBA in pace at 104.2 possessions per game and 27th in defensive efficiency at 112.3 points per 100 possessions allowed.

Minnesota has now played eight straight games in which they combined with their opponents for 222 or more points.  That makes for a perfect 8-0 system backing the OVER pertaining to this 219.5-point total.

The Miami Heat will be able to name their score tonight agaisnt the Timberwolves.  The OVER is 4-0 in the last four meetings with combined scores of 220 or more in each of the last three.  That includes a 129-126 win by the Timberwolves for 255 combined points in their most recent meeting.

Minnesota is 9-1 OVER after allowing 130 points or more this season.  Miami is 35-18 OVER in its last 55 road games following a loss by 10 points or more.  The OVER is 5-0 in Miami's last five games vs. a team with a losing record.  The OVER is 4-1 in Timberwolves last five games overall.  Take the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Grizzlies/Bulls UNDER 226

Familiarity favors UNDERS and defense, and the Bulls and Grizzlies will be rematching from a game from just five days ago on April 12th.  The Grizzlies won that game 101-90 for 191 combined points.  I can't believe oddsmakers have set this total this high for the rematch, 35 points higher than they combined for in that first meeting.

And the big difference is the Bulls will be without leading scorer Zach LaVine (27.5 PPG) this time around as he is in quarantine.  The Bulls will have to slow it down and run their offensive through Nikola Vucevic, and they won't have the pick-and-roll option between those two that was working so well.

Chicago is 12-4 UNDER in its last 16 games when revenging a road loss.  The UNDER is 7-1 in Bulls last eight home games.  The UNDER is 3-0-1 in the last four meetings.  Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

20* NBA Friday UPSET SHOCKER on Washington Wizards +2

The Washington Wizards are trying desperately to make the playoffs.  They have gone 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall and have gone 4-1 SU in their last five games overall.  That includes upset road wins over the Warriors and Jazz.

Now the Wizards are back home here hosting the New Orleans Pelicans.  The Pelicans have won three of their last four, but two of those were narrow wins over the Kings and Cavaliers.  They also lost by 10 to the Knicks last time out.

Having Bradley Beal back has made all the difference for the Wizards.  They are 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in the last five games in which Beal has played with their only loss coming by 2 points.  He leads the NBA in scoring at 31.0 points per game.  He and Russell Westbrook are forming a nice chemistry now, and the Wizards are as healthy as they have been all season.

The Pelicans are 10-26-2 ATS in their last 38 Friday games.  New Orleans is 1-5 ATS in its last six games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five games playing on one days' rest.  The Wizards are 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a win by more than 10 points.  New Orleans is 0-4 ATS in its last four trips to Washington.  Bet the Wizards Friday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Cleveland Cavaliers +8.5

The Cleveland Cavaliers are not just playing out the string.  They have gotten healthy here down the stretch and are playing some of their best basketball of the season.  They are 3-2 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall with double-digit wins over the Spurs by 24, the Thunder by 27 and the Hornets by 13.  They also nearly upset the Pelicans in a game they led most the way before faltering late.

The Warriors come in getting too much respect from the books after going 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three games overall.  Asking them to win by 9-plus points to cover this number on the road is simply asking too much.

This is a much worse spot for the Warriors than it is for the Cavaliers.  The Warriors will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They are already short-handed without three of their top six scorers in Wiseman, Paschall and Oubre Jr.

The Cavaliers will also be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, but they had two days off prior to beating the Hornets last night, so they should still be fresh.  Only one player played more than 31 minutes for them last night.  And they could possibly get Collin Sexton back from injury after he sat out last night as he is listed as questionable.

The Warriors are 7-22-1 ATS in their last 30 games playing on zero rest.  Golden State is 1-5 ATS in its last six road games.  Cleveland is 6-1 ATS in its last seven games vs. a team with a losing record.  Roll with the Cavaliers Thursday.

20* NBA Wednesday Late-Night BAILOUT on Wizards/Kings OVER 236.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Washington Wizards visit the Sacramento Kings.  We should have this OVER 236.5 covered with plenty of time left on the clock in the 4th quarter with how these teams play.

Sacramento ranks dead last (30th) in defensive efficiency this season, giving up 115.7 points per 100 possessions.  Washington ranks 26th in defensive efficiency, allowing 111.5 points per 100 possessions.  The Wizards play at the fastest pace in the NBA at 106.1 possessions per game.  Sacramento plays at the 9th-fastest pace.

These teams played earlier this season on March 17th and combined for 240 points despite both teams shooting poorly from 3-point range.  Washington went 4-for-25 (16%) while Sacramento went 10-for-33 (30.3%).  They won't shoot that poorly again, and even if they do they still showed they could get to 240.  They also combined for 259 points in their previous meeting.

The OVER is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings in Sacramento.  The OVER is 8-2 in Kings last 10 games as home underdogs.  The OVER is 35-16 in Kings last 51 games following an ATS loss.  Plays on the OVER on all teams where the total is 230 or higher (Sacramento) - off a road loss, a marginal losing team (40% to 49%) playing another losing team are 34-11 (75.6%) since 1996.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +11.5

I've been fading the Oklahoma City Thunder with a lot of success because they were without five of their top six scorers for most of this stretch that has seen them go 1-10 SU & 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games overall with seven straight blowout losses by double-digits coming in.  But now it's time to 'buy low' on the Thunder tonight.

They just got two of those scorers back two games ago in Dort (13.3 PPG) and Bazley (11.9 PPG).  Dort went off for 42 points last night against the Jazz in a 10-point loss as 16.5-point dogs.  He was the only Thunder play to play more than 28 minutes last night, so they should still be reasonably fresh, especially since they had two days off prior to that game.  It will be just their 2nd game in 4 days.

The injury report for the Golden State Warriors right now doesn't warrant them being double-digit road favorites over the Thunder tonight.  They are without three of their top six scorers in Kelly Oubre Jr. (15.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG), James Wiseman (11.5 PPG, 5.8 RPG) and Eric Paschall (9.5 PPG).  The Warriors are just 4-8 SU & 5-7 ATS in their last 12 games overall with only two wins by double-digits.

Golden State is 1-9 ATS following two or more consecutive wins this season.  The Warriors are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games.  Oklahoma City is 14-3 ATS in its last 17 games after allowing 105 points or more in five straight games.  Roll with the Thunder Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Detroit Pistons +9

I absolutely love the spot for the Detroit Pistons tonight.  They come in on two days' rest after losing to the Clippers 124-131 as 13-point road dogs on Sunday.  Now they will be out for revenge as they get to host the Clippers this time around as 9-point home dogs.

The Clippers trailed by 5 points in that game entering the 4th quarter before outscoring the Pistons by 12 in the final period.  And Detroit's best player in Jerami Grant (22.5 PPG) didn't even play in that game and has been out since April 6th.  But Grant is expected to make his return to the lineup tonight as he has been listed as probable.

This is an awful spot for the Clippers, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days tonight after a 126-115 win in Indiana last night.  They will be without Patrick Beverly and Serge Ibaka and there's a good chance Kawhi Leonard sits tonight as he is listed as questionable.  Paul George played 38 minutes last night and could rest as well.  Either way, this is a tired team that won't be all that motivated to beat the Pistons for the 2nd time in 4 days.

Detroit is 9-1 ATS vs. good 3-point shooting teams that make 39% or better this season.  The Pistons are 12-2 ATS vs. good teams that outscored their opponents by 3-plus points per game this season.  Detroit is 7-2 ATS in its last nine games playing on two days' rest.  The Pistons are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Detroit is 19-7 ATS in its last 26 games following a SU loss.  Take the Pistons Wednesday.

20* Celtics/Blazers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Portland -1

The Portland Trail Blazers come in highly motivated for a victory after losing three of their last four games.  But two of those losses came on the road to two of the best teams in the NBA in the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Clippers.  The other was on the 2nd of a back-to-back against the Miami Heat.

Now the Blazers are rested after having yesterday off and should get back on track here against the Boston Celtics at home.  It's time to 'buy low' on the Blazers, who needed a few games to get Norman Powell and CJ McCollum implemented into the offense.  They also just got Jusuf Nurkic back from injury and are as healthy as they have been all season.  They will be a dangerous team moving forward.

The Celtics are getting too much respect from oddsmakers after winning three straight games coming in.  But two of those wins came at home over New York (by 2) and Minnesota (in OT).  The other was a road win over the short-handed Denver Nuggets who were playing without Jamal Murray.  This will be their stiffest challenge since a 10-point home loss to the 76ers prior to their winning streak.

The Celtics are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games following a SU win by more than 10 points.  Boston is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games following an ATS win.  Portland is 4-1 ATS in its last five games following an ATS loss.  The Blazers are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  The Celtics are just 11-16 SU on the road this season.  Bet the Blazers Tuesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on Charlotte Hornets -1.5

The Charlotte Hornets have been one of the most underrated teams in the NBA all season as they are 27-25 SU through their first 52 games this season.  They have been especially underrated of late since some injuries have popped up as they have shown off their depth in going 7-4 SU & 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games overall.

Now the Hornets are in a much more favorable spot than the Lakers tonight.  They had yesterday off following a 101-105 home loss to Atlanta on Sunday.  That was a tough spot for them as it was their first game back home following a six-game road trip.  Now the Hornets are rested, refocused and ready to go tonight playing just their 4th game in 9 days.

Meanwhile, the Lakers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 7th straight road games tonight after a 96-111 road loss to the Knicks last night.  They remain short-handed without LeBron James and Anthony Davis and have really struggled offensively without these two.  The Lakers are just 5-8 SU & 5-8 ATS in their last 13 games overall since losing LeBron.

Charlotte is 21-9 ATS in its last 30 games following a loss by 6 points or less.  Los Angeles is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Hornets are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games following an ATS loss.  The Hornets are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a SU loss.  Charlotte is 6-1 ATS in its last seven games as a favorite.  Take the Hornets Tuesday.

15* Clippers/Pacers TNT ANNIHILATOR on Indiana +3

The Indiana Pacers are playing their best basketball of the season right now and it's due to being as healthy as they have been basically all season.  They have gone 4-1 SU in their last five games overall with road wins over the Spurs, Magic and Grizzlies.  Having Malcolm Brogdon and Domantas Sabonis healthy has made all the difference for them.

Now the Pacers should be able to take down a Los Angeles Clippers team that is short-handed and getting too much respect from the books after winning five straight games coming in.  Well, now they won't have their best player in Kawhi Leonard tonight, and they remain without both Patrick Beverly and Serge Ibaka.  They aren't good enough without those three to beat the Pacers with the way Indiana is playing right now.

Plays against road favorites (LA Clippers) - after four or more consecutive wins, a good team (60% to 75%) playing against a team with a losing record are 60-25 (70.6%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five games vs. a team with a winning record.  Roll with the Pacers Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday UPSET SHOCKER on Sacramento Kings +2.5

The New Orleans Pelicans are in a terrible spot tonight.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 5th game in 7 days and their 8th game in 12 days tonight.  They struggled with the Cavaliers last night and needed a late comeback to win 116-109 as 9-pint favorites.

They showed the fatigue against the Cavaliers last night, and it's going to be even worse tonight against the Kings.  Five different players played at least 31 minutes for the Pelicans last night, including 35 from Brandon Ingram and 36 from Zion Williamson.  Don't be surprised if Stan Van Gundy rests one or both tonight.

The Kings will test those tired legs because they like to push the tempo, playing at the 8th-fastest pace in the NBA this season.  They are rested and ready to go playing just their 3rd game in 7 days.  And it's a great time to 'buy low' on them off six straight losses against a very tough schedule.

The Kings have the Pelicans' number in going 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS in the last four meetings.  New Orleans is 5-12 ATS in its last 17 games as a home favorite.  The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last six home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  New Orleans is 6-18 ATS in its last 24 games after scoring 115 points or more.

The Pelicans are 1-11 ATS in their last 12 home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the 2nd half of the season.  New Orleans is 1-13 ATS in its last 14 home games vs. poor defensive teams that allow 46% shooting or higher in the 2nd half of the season.  Roll with the Kings Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +11.5

You're definitely paying a tax on the Utah Jazz at this point in the season due to having the best record in the NBA at 40-13.  Now they are laying double-digits to the Washington Wizards despite being without two of their best players in Mike Conley and Jordan Clarkson.

Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards are basically fully healthy right now and that hasn't been the case for much of the season.  Bradley Beal (30.9 PPG) was out from March 27th through April 7th.  He returned for two games against Orland and Golden State, and the Wizards won 131-116 over the Magic and upset the Warriors 110-107.  He sat out the 106-134 loss to Phoenix on the 2nd of a back-to-back, but he is expected back in the lineup tonight.

Washington hasn't lost any of its last four meetings with Utah by more than 11 points.  In fact, the Wizards pulled the 131-122 upset as 10.5-point dogs on March 18th in their first meeting this season.  Beal had 43 points in that game while Westbrook had 35 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists.  With these two healthy the Wizards can hang with the Jazz again tongiht.

Plays against favorites of 10 or more points (Utah) - after a blowout win by 15 points or more against an opponent that scored 55 points or more in the first half of two straight games are 38-12 (76%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Take the Wizards Monday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Wizards/Jazz OVER 234

The Utah Jazz have been an offensive juggernaut all season.  They rank 3rd in the NBA in offensive efficiency at 115.6 points per 100 possessions.  Amazingly, the Jazz have now scored 111 or more points in 34 of their last 36 games overall.

They should be able to name their score against a Washington Wizards team that plays no defense.  The Wizards rank 26th in defensive efficiency this season, giving up 111.4 points per 100 possessions.  They also play at the fastest pace in the entire NBA at 106.2 possessions per game, which is 1.5 possessions per than 2nd place, so they are a dead nuts OVER team.

The Wizards will definitely be able to keep pace with the Jazz now that they are basically fully healthy.  Bradley Beal (30.9 PPG) was out from March 27th through April 7th.  He returned for two games and scored 26 against Orlando and 20 against Golden State before sitting out the 2nd of a back-to-back against Phoenix.  Now he's back for this contest against Utah.

The OVER is 4-0 in the last four meetings in this series.  They have combined for 253, 248, 243 and 252 points in those four meetings and are averaging 249 combined points per game in those four meetings, none of which went to overtime.  So we are basically getting 15 points of value on this OVER 234 tonight.

Washington is 15-3 OVER in its last 18 games as an underdog of 10 or more points.  The Wizards are 9-1 OVER in their last 10 games against dominant rebounding teams that outrebound their opponents by 5-plus boards per game.  Washington is 8-0 OVER vs. very good teams that outscore their opponents by 6-plus points per game this season.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Late-Night BAILOUT on Heat/Blazers OVER 221.5

The Blazers were already a dead nuts OVER team because they rank 29th in defensive efficiency this season, giving up 114.3 points per 100 possessions.  And now they are an offensive juggernaut with the trade for Norman Powell from the Raptors and getting CJ McCollum back from injury in recent weeks.

The Blazers have scored at least 109 points in nine of their last 10 games overall.  They have also scored 108 or more points in 17 of their last 20 games overall.  They rank 7th in the NBA in offensive efficiency this season and have been even better than that in recent weeks.

Portland beat Miami 125-122 on March 25th for 247 combined points.  The OVER is now 5-1 in the last six meetings with 224 or more combined points in each of the last five meetings.  They have averaged 232.2 combined points at the end of regulation in those five meetings, which is roughly 11 points more than this 221.5-point total, so we are getting great value with this OVER.

The OVER Is 4-0 in Miami's last four games overall.  The OVER is 4-0 in Miami's last four games vs. a team with a winning record.  The OVER is 12-4 in Blazers last 16 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The OVER is 12-5 in Blazers last 17 games playing on zero rest.  Portland is 14-3 OVER in its last 17 games following two or more consecutive unders.  Take the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Bulls/Timberwolves OVER 230.5

The Chicago Bulls are playing great offensively now that they have Nikola Vucevic from the Magic combining with LaVine, White and company.  This is one of the more underrated teams in the NBA now in the Bulls, who haver scored 106 or more points in six consecutive games.

They face a Timberwolves team that will have no problem getting up and down with them.  The Timberwolves rank 3rd in the NBA in pace this season and just got De'Angelo Russell back from injury and will speed up the tempo even more now.  They also rank 27th in defensive efficiency this season.

The Timberwolves combined for 278 points with the Pacers two games ago in a 137-141 loss in regulation.  Then they went to OT against the Celtics last time out in a game that saw 248 combined points at the end of regulation.  And the Bulls and Timberwolves squared off earlier this season on February 24th in a game that saw 238 combined points at the end of regulation.

The OVER is 6-2 in the last eight meetings.  The OVER is 14-6 in the last 20 meetings in Minnesota.  The OVER is 7-2 in Timberwolves last nine games vs. a team with a losing record.  Minnesota is 8-1 OVER after allowing 130 points or more this season.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Saturday Late-Night BAILOUT on Pistons/Blazers OVER 223.5

The Blazers were already a dead nuts OVER team because they rank 29th in defensive efficiency this season, giving up 114.3 points per 100 possessions.  And now they are an offensive juggernaut with the trade for Norman Powell from the Raptors and getting CJ McCollum back from injury in recent weeks.

The Blazers have scored at least 109 points in eight of their last nine games overall.  They have also scored 108 or more points in 16 of their last 19 games overall.  They will hang a big number on the Detroit Pistons, who have allowed 124 or more points in three of their last six games coming in.  

But the Pistons are playing much better offensively of late as they have scored 113 or more points in four of their last five games overall.  They have averaged 121.3 points per game in their last three games.  Plus, there's a good chance they get back leading scorer Jerami Grant from injury after sitting out last game.

The OVER is 11-4-1 in Pistons last 16 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The OVER is 5-1 in Pistons last six games playing on one days' rest.  The OVER is 13-5 in the last 18 meetings.  The OVER is 11-4 in Blazers last 15 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Take the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Saturday No-Doubt Rout on Philadelphia 76ers -11

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been playing without five of their top six scorers in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Darius Bazley, Al Horford, Luguentz Dort and Mike Muscala.  It's no wonder they have gone just 1-8 SU & 1-8 ATS in their last nine games overall with all eight losses by 9 points or more and seven by 11 points or more.

The last five games have been really ugly for the Thunder as they have lost by 37, 48, 24, 11 and 27 points.  That's an average loss of 29.4 points per game, which is why I have no problem laying the big number with the Philadelphia 76ers tonight.

The 76ers shouldn't even be considering a letdown here after getting upset by the New Orleans Pelicans last night.  And I'm not concerned about them playing the 2nd of a back-to-back either because they had two days off prior to that game against the Pelicans, so they should still be fresh enough to put away the overmatched Thunder.

The 76ers are 5-1 ATS in their last six games following a loss.  Philadelphia is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven games as a road favorite.  The 76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games vs. a team with a losing home record.  The Thunder are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games as home underdogs.  Bet the 76ers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Raptors/Cavs OVER 216.5

Two teams with little to play for at this point in the Toronto Raptors (20-32) and Cleveland Cavaliers (19-32) square off tonight.  I don't expect much defense to be played at all in this game, and this total is way too low for how these two teams have been playing of late.

The Cavaliers are coming off two of their best offensive performances of the season in scoring 125 points against the Spurs and 129 more against the Thunder.  Collin Sexton and Darius Garland are really starting to find their groove on offense.

The Raptors just haven't been playing much defense lately in giving up 109 or more points in 18 of their last 21 games overall.  But they are still a very efficient offensive team and should be able to hang a number on Cleveland, which ranks 21st in defensive efficiency this season.

The OVER is 5-1 in the last six meetings in this series with 221 or more combined points in five of the six.  They have averaged 228 combined points per game in those six meetings, none of which went to overtime.  So we are getting roughly 11.5 points of line value on this OVER 216.5 based on what they have averaged in their last six meetings.  Roll with the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Late-Night BAILOUT on Houston Rockets +13.5

The Los Angeles Clippers are coming off a massive win over the Phoenix Suns last night in a battle to win the Pacific Division.  This is the perfect letdown spot for them, and I'll gladly fade them in this spot laying 13.5 points to the Houston Rockets.

The Clippers will now be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  Kawhi Leonard played 37 minutes last night and Paul George 34 minutes.  Don't be surprised to see one or both of them rest tonight.  Either way, they won't be nearly as motivated against the Rockets as they were against the Suns last night, and they definitely won't be as fresh.

The Rockets have been much more competitive since getting their best player in Christian Wood back healthy.  They are 2-0 ATS in their last two games, taking the Suns to the wire in a 130-133 loss as 14-point dogs and actually upsetting the Mavericks 102-93 as 10-point dogs.  They had yesterday off and will be fresh for this game.

The Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  The Clippers are 1-4 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a losing record.  Houston is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings and 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings in Los Angeles.

Plays against favorites of 10 or more points (LA Clippers) - after a home game where both teams scored 100 or more points, playing the 2nd of a back-to-back are 36-13 (73.5%) ATS since 1996.  Roll with the Rockets Friday.

20* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +7.5

It's time to 'buy low' on the San Antonio Spurs.  They have gone 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall coming in.  But they were a tired team with a lot of games recently.  They had yesterday off and I love the spot for the Spurs.

San Antonio will be out for revenge from a 96-106 road loss at Denver on Wednesday.  This is a double-header so they will be playing in Denver again tonight.  I expect them to be the more motivated team for revenge.

It's time to 'sell high' on the Nuggets after going 7-0 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall.  After already beating the Spurs by double-digits just two days ago, they won't bring the kind of intensity it's going to take to beat the Spurs by 8-plus points tonight.

San Antonio is 22-5 ATS in its last 27 games when revenging a road loss by 10 points or more.  The Spurs are 64-34 ATS in their last 88 games when revenging a loss.  San Antonio is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games as a road underdog.  Take the Spurs Friday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on New York Knicks +2

The New York Knicks will be highly motivated for a victory tonight after losing five of their last six games coming in.  Those losses came to the Heat, Mavericks, Nets, Celtics and Timberwolves with three of them coming by 2 points or less.  So they have played a tough schedule during this run and they have been competitive.

While it's time to 'buy low' on the Knicks, it's definitely time to 'sell high' on the Grizzlies.  They have gone 5-1 SU & 6-0 ATS in their last six games overall.  But they have played a pretty weak schedule during this stretch with their only impressive win coming on the road at Miami.

This will be the 4th road game in 6 days for the Grizzlies.  While the Knicks are as healthy as they have been all season, the Grizzlies will be without Clarke, Winslow and Melton.  Ja Morant is battling through a back injury as well, though he is expected to play tonight.

The Knicks are 10-1 ATS at home with a line of +3 to -3 this season.  New York is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games following a SU loss.  The Knicks are 18-8-1 ATS in their last 27 games overall.  Bet the Knicks Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Total DOMINATOR on Blazers/Jazz OVER 229.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are a dead nuts over team now that they have a healthy CJ McCollum (23.8 PPG, 41.1% 3-pointers) back in the lineup and trading for Norman Powell (19.4 PPG, 43.7% 3-pointers) from the Raptors.   Couple them with Lillard (29.2 PPG, 38% 3-pointers) and Anthony (13.6 PPG, 38.2% 3-pointers) and they are simply tough to tame.

But the Blazers have a key weakness and that is on the other end, where they rank 29th in defensive efficiency.  Only the Kings have been worse in that department.  So they are going to have to try and win shootouts moving forward.  They are 6th in offensive efficiency this season and face a Jazz team that ranks 3rd in offensive efficiency.

The OVER is 4-1 in the last five meetings in this series with 231 or more combined points in four of those five games and none of them going to overtime.  So there's clearly some value with this OVER 229.5 tonight, especially with the way the Blazers are currently built to operate compared to those previous five meetings.

The OVER is 5-0 in Blazers last five road games.  The OVER is 8-2 in Blazers last 10 games as road underdogs.  The OVER is 23-11 in Jazz last 34 games following a loss.  The Blazers have scored at least 109 points in eight consecutive games and 112 or more in seven of those.  The Jazz have scored 111 or more points in 26 of their last 27 games overall.  Take the OVER in this game Thursday. 

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Portland Trail Blazers +6.5

This is a great spot for the Portland Trail Blazers and a terrible one for the Utah Jazz.  The Blazers will be playing just their 2nd game in 5 days, so they are rested and ready to go.  And they have been playing great since getting CJ McCollum back from injury and trading for Norman Powell from the Raptors.  They are 5-2 SU in their last seven games overall with their only losses coming to the Bucks and Clippers.

The Jazz will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days tonight.  Making matters worse is that they are coming off a 113-117 (OT) loss to the Phoenix Suns last night.  Donovan Mitchell played over 40 minutes, Rudy Gobert over 36, Bogdanovic over 39 and Conley over 35.  The Jazz simply won't have much left in the tank for the Blazers tonight.

Portland is 12-4 ATS in road games vs. teams that score 110 or more points per game this season.  The Blazers are 13-6-1 ATS in their last 20 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Jazz are 1-4 ATS in their last five games as favorites.  They should not be 6.5-point favorites tonight given the terrible spot for them and the great one for Portland.  Take the Blazers Thursday.

20* Suns/Clippers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 222.5

It's a good time to bet an UNDER tonight between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers, who are fighting for first place in the Pacific Division.  Defensive intensity will be high in this game, and that should lead to an UNDER.

There's value with the UNDER due to the Suns going over the total in five consecutive games coming in.  But the Suns just played an OT game against the Jazz last night that finished with 230 combined points when it was only at 204 combined points at the end of regulation.

Now the Suns will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and they won't be looking to push the tempo on tired legs.  After all, they rarely look to push the pace as they rank 26th in pace this season.  The Clippers also prefer to play slow as they rank 27th in pace.  But what makes both these teams so good is their defense.  The Suns rank 5th in defensive efficiency while the Clippers rank 9th and should be even better moving forward now that Patrick Beverly has returned from injury.

The Clippers and Suns have combined for 219 or fewer points in three of their last four meetings.  The UNDER is 15-5-3 in Clippers last 23 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Phoenix is 26-12 UNDER in its last 38 games vs. division opponents.

Plays on the UNDER on road teams where the total is 210 or higher (Phoenix) - revenging a loss against an opponent that is off two consecutive home wins by 10 points or more are 40-13 (75.5%) over the last five seasons.  Bet the UNDER in this game Thursday.

20* NBA Thursday No-Doubt Rout on Cleveland Cavaliers -3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are a mess right now.  They have gone 1-7 SU & 1-7 ATS in their last eight games overall with all seven losses by 9 points or more.  The last four losses have come by an average of 30 points per game.

They are struggling because they are playing without five of their top six scorers in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Darius Bazley, Al Horford, Luguentz Dort and Mike Muscala.  Making matters worse tonight is that they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days for a team that is already short-handed.

The Cleveland Cavaliers continue to battle and are coming off an impressive 125-101 upset win at San Antonio as 8-point underdogs.  Now they've had the last two days off, so they will be rested and ready to go.  They should have no problem handing the tired Thunder yet another blowout defeat tonight.

Cleveland is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 road games when playing against a bad team that wins between 25% and 40% of their games.  The Cavaliers are 5-1 ATS in their last six games when playing on two days' rest.  Bet the Cavaliers Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Mavs/Rockets OVER 222

The Dallas Mavericks are hitting on all cylinders offensively with Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis both healthy.  They have scored 109 or more points in seven of the last eight games in which Doncic has played with the only exception coming against the Knicks, who play at a snail's pace and play great defense.

I think we are getting tremendous value with this OVER tonight due to the Mavericks going under the total in six of their last seven games overall.  And the fact that the Rockets have been an under team for the majority of the season, but that is no longer the case.

The Rockets have been much better offensively since getting their best player back from injury in Christian Wood (20.9 PPG, 36.6% 3-pointers).  The Rockets have scored 100-plus points in nine of their last 10 games in which Wood has played.  In their last two games, they hung 115 on the Pelicans and then 130 on the Suns, who are known for great defense.

The OVER is 4-1 in the last five meetings with combined scores of 241 or more points in all four OVERS.  The OVER is 6-0 in Mavericks last six road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.  The OVER is 21-10 in Mavericks last 31 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The OVER is 4-0 in Rockets last four games vs. a team with a winning record.  Roll with the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Pelicans/Nets ESPN ANNIHILATOR on New Orleans +9.5

The Brooklyn Nets are overvalued after going 21-4 SU in their last 25 games overall that has them sitting in a tie for 1st place in the Eastern Conference.  But I've been 'selling high' on them for weeks and cashing in, and I'll continue to do so tonight.

Despite their SU success the Nets are just 3-10 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  Eight of their last 10 wins have come by 9 points or fewer, and asking them to beat the Pelicans by double-digits to cover this spread is asking too much.  That's especially the case with James Harden, Landry Shamet and Tyler Johnson all out tonight.  I know Kevin Durant makes his much anticipated return tonight, but there's no doubt he will be on a minutes restriction and they will be careful with him.

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Pelicans after going 1-3 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games overall.  They are coming off a 107-123 loss to the Hawks last night in which the Hawks made 11-of-11 3-pointers in the 3rd quarter to pull away.  The blowout nature of the defeat allowed the Pelicans to rest their starters late, and they should still be relatively fresh for this game against the Nets.  Zion Williamson and Lonzo Ball just returned to the lineup, and there's a chance they get Brandon Ingram back tonight.

The Pelicans are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a SU loss of more than 10 points.  New Orleans is 4-1 ATS in its last five road games.  The Nets are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games as favorites.  Brooklyn is 0-6 ATS in its last six games vs. a team with a losing record.  Take the Pelicans Wednesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on New York Knicks +4

The New York Knicks are highly motivated for a victory after losing four of their last five games coming in.  Three of the losses were to three of the best teams in the NBA in the Nets, Heat and Mavericks.  They had yesterday off to regroup, and they are as healthy as they have been in a long time and nearly pulled the upset in a 112-114 loss to the Nets last time out.

Now the Knicks face a tired Boston Celtics team that will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 96-106 loss to Philadelphia last night.  Both Evan Fournier and Kemba Walker will sit tonight, and Jayson Tatum (35 minutes), Marcus Smart (36) and Jaylen Brown (33) will still be tired after playing big minutes last night.  It will also be the 14th game in 23 days for the Celtics.

The Knicks went on the road and crushed the Celtics 105-75 as 7-point dogs in their first meeting this season.  New York is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 games after playing two consecutive road games.  The Knicks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven road games.  New York is 17-8-1 ATS in its last 26 games overall and remains undervalued tonight given the tough spot for the Celtics.  Boston is 1-6 ATS in its last seven games playing on zero rest.  Bet the Knicks Wednesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blazers/Clippers OVER 228.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are a dead nuts OVER team since getting CJ McCollum back from injury and Norman Powell from the Raptors via trade.  They are tough to tampe offensively as they have scored 109 or more points in seven straight games and 108 or more in 15 of their last 17 games.

The Blazers are also 29th in defensive efficiency this season, giving up 113.8 points per 100 possessions.  Only the Kings have been worse.  They face a Clippers team that ranks 2nd in the NBA in offensive efficiency at 115.7 points per 100 possessions.  The Blazers are 6th in offensive efficiency at 114.1 points per 100 possessions.

The OVER is 2-0 in the last two meetings in this series with combined scores of 239 and 233 points.  These teams should have no problem topping 230 combined points tonight given that they both as healthy as they have been in a long time.

The OVER is 7-2 in Blazers last nine games as road underdogs.  The OVER is 4-0 in Blazers last four road games.  Portland is 13-3 OVER in its last 16 games following two or more consecutive underdogs.  The Blazers are 25-8 OVER in their last 33 games after winning three of their last four games coming in.  The Clippers are 21-6 OVER in their last 27 games following a win over a division rival.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +14

The Detroit Pistons just blew out the Oklahoma City Thunder 132-108 on the road last night.  It was their third blowout victory in five games as they also beat the Raptors by 14 and the Wizards by 29 recently.  They have no quietly gone 9-5 ATS in their last 14 games overall and have been a very profitable team to back of late.

The fact that they blew out the Thunder last night actually makes this 2nd of a back-to-back situation a lot easier on them tonight.  None of their starters played more than 23 minutes last night, and nobody on their entire team played more than 25 minutes.  They will still be fresh tonight, and this back-to-back situation is being factored into this line too much.

I think the Nuggets are starting to get bored.  That showed last time out as they trailed the Magic by 18 at halftime before coming back to win by 10.  That was an awful Magic team playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a loss in Utah the night before.  If the Magic could stay within 10 in that spot, the Pistons can certainly do the same.  The Nuggets are finding it harder to get motivated after winning five straight coming in, and it's time to 'sell high' on them.

Detroit is a perfect 7-0 ATS in its last seven games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  They have been great at playing up to their level of competition this season.  The Pistons are 7-2 ATS in their last nine games playing on zero rest.  Denver is 8-18-1 ATS in its last 27 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400, so they have had a tendency of playing down to their level of competition.  Detroit is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.  Roll with the Pistons Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday UPSET SHOCKER on Chicago Bulls +1

The Chicago Bulls just got both Zach LaVine and Coby White back from injury two games ago.  After a game effort without those two in a 5-point loss at Phoenix as 8.5-point dogs, they also took the Jazz to the wire in a 7-point road loss as 11-point dogs.  Then they came back and upset the Nets by 8 as 2.5-point dogs.

So the Bulls just showed they could hang with three of the best teams in the NBA in the Suns, Jazz and Nets.  And now I expect them to take down the Indiana Pacers tonight.  Nikola Vucevic is getting more and more comfortable with his new team, and the Bulls are definitely a 'buy on' team moving forward.

The Pacers just can't seem to stay healthy and it's a big reason they are just 7-12 SU & 5-14 ATS in their last 19 games overall.  T.J. Warren remains out, and Domantas Sabonis, Malcolm Brogdon and Jeremy Lamb are all questionable tonight.  The good news is I like the Bulls to win this game whether or not those three play.  If any of them sits it's an added bonus.

The Bulls are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Chicago is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games playing on one days' rest.  Indiana is 5-16 ATS in its last 21 home games.  The Pacers are 0-7 ATS in their last seven games after allowing more than 120 points in their previous game.  Indiana is 0-5 ATS in its last five games playing on two days' rest.  Chicago is 16-6 ATS in all road games this season.  Take the Bulls Tuesday.

20* Baylor/Gonzaga Championship Game No-Brainer on Baylor +4.5

The Baylor Bears have been the second-best team in the country all season and it really hasn't even been close.  They are 27-2 this season and their only struggles came after a COVID pause for three weeks.  They went 1-7 ATS in their next eight games after the pause and entered the NCAA Tournament undervalued because of it.

After barely failing to cover in a 24-point win over Harford as 25.5-point favorites in their opener, the Bears have gone 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS since.  They beat Wisconsin by 13 as 6.5-point favorites, beat Villanova by 11 as 7.5-point favorites and topped Arkansas by 9 as 7.5-point favorites.  Then they blasted Houston 78-59 as 5-point favorites in the Final Four.

I think the blowout nature of that win helps them here in the Championship Game.  The Bears will still be fresh and ready to go.  Meanwhile, Gonzaga had to play the late game and went into overtime with UCLA, winning a 93-90 thriller.  There's no question the Bears will be the fresher, more prepared team after playing in the early game on Saturday.  They got to watch Gonzaga after and got a head start to game planning.  I think this is now a very evenly-matched game and I actually make Baylor a slight favorite, so I definitely love getting the +4.5 here.

Baylor is just so tough to tame as they average 82.8 points per game and shoot 41.2% from 3-point range as a team.  Their top five scorers all shoot 39.6% or better from 3-point range.  Gonzaga just allowed a poor UCLA offensive team to shoot 57.6% against them and every player that played in the game for the Bruins shot at least 50% from the floor.  You can just imagine what Baylor is going to do against this soft Gonzaga defense.

While Baylor is known for being an offensive juggernaut, and rightfully so, I actually believe the Bears are the better defensive team here.  That has shown in the NCAA Tournament as they are allowing just 60.0 points per game and 42% shooting in their five tournament games.  Gonzaga hasn't seen a team that is as athletic defensively as Baylor is all season.  Nothing is going to come easy for the Bulldogs tonight.

The Bears are 34-16-2 ATS in their last 52 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Baylor is a perfect 8-0 ATS vs. good passing teams that average 16 or more assists per game over the last two seasons.  The Bears are 16-6 ATS in their last 22 games as underdogs.  Bet Baylor Monday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Raptors OVER 228.5

Two great OVER teams square off tonight as the Washington Wizards visit the Toronto Raptors.  I think we see 230-plus points with ease tonight between these teams, which has been the case in recent meetings as well.

The OVER is 7-0 in the last seven meetings with combined scores of 230 or more points in all seven meetings.  They have averaged 241.7 combined points at the end of regulation in those seven meetings, which is roughly 13 points more than tonight's posted today of 228.5.

Washington is a great OVER team because they play at the fastest pace in the entire NBA at 106.3 possessions per game.  They also rank 26th in defensive efficiency, giving up 111.5 points per 100 possessions.  The Raptors play at the 12th-fasted pace and rank 14th in offensive efficiency.

Toronto is 8-1 OVER when playing against a bad team (25% to 40%) this season.  Washington is 8-1 OVER when revenging a home loss by 10 points or more this season.  The OVER is 7-0 in Raptors last seven games vs. a team with a losing record.  Take the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Dallas Mavericks +6

The Utah Jazz are getting a ton of respect from oddsmakers right now due to having the best record in the Western Conference at 38-11 this season.  It's time to 'sell high' on them tonight as 6-point road favorites over the Dallas Mavericks.

What seems to be going unnoticed is how well the Mavericks are playing of late when Luka Doncic has been healthy and in the lineup.  Indeed, the Mavericks are 6-0 SU & 6-0 ATS in the last six games in which Doncic has played.  They beat the Blazers by 40, the Timberwolves by 20, the Thunder by 21, the Celtics by 5, the Knicks by 13 and the Wizards by 22. 

The Mavericks will be highly motivated for a win tonight to get revenge from two road losses at Utah in their first two meetings this season.  The Jazz are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  Utah is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 trips to Dallas.  Roll with the Mavericks Monday.

20* Knicks/Nets NBA TV No-Brainer on New York +5.5

The Brooklyn Nets have been money burners for weeks.  They are just 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games overall.  They continue to be overvalued due to going 20-4 SU in their last 24 games overall.  But most of their wins have been close of late, and getting 5.5 points with the Knicks tonight is too much.

This is a terrible spot for the Nets as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 107-115 loss in Chicago last night.  They are already without Kevin Durant, and James Harden is questionable with a hamstring injury after sitting out last night.  Tyler Johnson is doubtful and Landry Shamet is questionable.  Irving (38 minutes), Harris (34) and Brown (30) all had to play big minutes last night against the Bulls.

The Knicks had yesterday off following their 125-81 blowout win at Detroit on Saturday.  They will be the fresher team, and they'll be highly motivated for revenge after losing their first two meetings this season with the Nets by 7 and 5 points.  They can stay within 5.5 in the 3rd meeting and possibly pull the upset given the favorable spot for them and the tough one for the Nets.

New York is 30-12 ATS in its last 42 games when revenging a same-season loss.  The Knicks are 8-0 ATS in their last eight games vs. good teams that outscore their opponents by 3-plus points per game in the 2nd half of the season.  New York is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  Brooklyn is 1-8 ATS in its last nine games as a favorite.  New York is 6-1 ATS in its last seven trips to Brooklyn.  Bet the Knicks Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Charlotte Hornets +9

The Charlotte Hornets are missing some players like Gordon Hayward, LaMelo Ball and Malik Monk.  But these injuries are being factored into this line too much, and asking the Boston Celtics to beat them by double-digits to cover this 9-point spread is asking too much.

The Hornets have proven they can still play well without Ball by going 5-2 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall.  And they lost Hayward early in the game last time out and still went on the road and beat the Pacers 114-97 on the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They are a deep team that can handle these losses better than most teams.

The Celtics just aren't playing well enough to be getting this kind of respect from oddsmakers.  They are 4-7 SU & 5-6 ATS in their last 11 games overall with three of those wins coming against the lowly Magic, Thunder and Rockets.  It's worth noting the Celtics could also be without Jaylen Brown, who left last game with a knee injury and is questionable tonight.

The Hornets are 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Charlotte is 7-1 ATS in its last eight Sunday games.  The Hornets are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall.  The Celtics are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games following a SU win.  Boston is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games following an ATS win.  The Celtics are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games following a win by more than 10 points.  Take the Hornets Sunday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Chicago Bulls +3.5

The Chicago Bulls will be highly motivated for a victory tonight.  They have lost six straight games coming in, but covered in their last two in a 5-point loss at Phoenix as 8.5-point dogs and a 7-point loss at Utah as 11-point dogs.

If they can hang with both Utah and Phoenix, the two teams with the best records in the Western Conference, they can certainly beat the Brooklyn Nets tonight.  It's worth noting that the Bulls just got both Zach LaVine and Coby White back from injury for the Jazz game after they both sat out the Suns game.  And Nikola Vucevic is getting comfortable in their offense now.

The Bulls can certainly beat a Brooklyn Nets team that will be missing their two best players in James Harden and Kevin Durant.  The Nets were able to beat the Hornets without these two last time out, but they won't be able to beat the Bulls without them.  Especially not a Bulls team that is this motivated for a win and playing with a chip on their shoulder.

Plays against road favorites (Brooklyn) - after four or more consecutive wins, a good team (60% to 75%) playing a team with a losing record are 58-25 (69.9%) ATS over the last five seasons.  The Nets are 1-7 ATS in their last eight games as favorites.  Brooklyn is 0-5 ATS in its last five games vs. a team with a losing record.  Chicago is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 Sunday games.  Bet the Bulls Sunday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Orlando Magic +16

The Orlando Magic have been an undervalued commodity since trading away three of their best players in Aaron Gordon, Nikola Vucevic and Evan Fournier.  They clearly weren't going anywhere with those three, so it was time to move on.  And the roster that is left over isn't as bad as it is perceived to be, and these guys are playing with huge chips on their shoulders.

Indeed, the Magic have gone 3-2 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last five games overall.  They pulled the upset over the Suns as 9.5-point dogs, upset the Clippers as 11-point dogs and upset the Pelicans as 5-point dogs.  They also only lost by 3 as 7-point dogs to the Lakers and by 7 as 9.5-point dogs to the Blazers.  They got Wendell Carter Jr. and Otto Porter Jr. from the Bulls, and they've had several players step up that were already on the roster.

Now the Magic are catching a whopping 16 points against the Utah Jazz, who are overvalued due to having the best record in the Western Conference.  I faded the Jazz yesterday with success and cashed in the Bulls +13.5 in a 7-point loss, and I'll fade the Jazz again today in this awful spot.  

Utah will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and its 6th game in 9 days here.  Don't be surprised if they elect to rest some starters after all five starters played more than 30 minutes last night.  Either way, this is too many points.  Bet the Magic Saturday.

15* UCLA/Gonzaga Final Four ANNIHILATOR on UCLA +14.5

I was definitely skeptical of UCLA going into the Alabama game and very high on the Crimson Tide -5.5 in that game for one of my few losses of the NCAA Tournament.  But the Bruins impressed me with an outright win in that game, and they went on to upset Michigan as 6.5-point dogs.  What more does this team have to do to get some respect from oddsmakers?  They certainly aren't getting respect here as 14.5-point dogs to Gonzaga.

UCLA is 5-0 SU & 5-0 ATS in the NCAA Tournament with four outright upsets as underdogs.  They just feel like they can't lose at this point with that 14-point comeback against Michigan State in the play-in game.  They showed some great poise after giving up an 11-point halftime lead to Alabama, and with the Crimson Tide hitting a 3-pointer at the buzzer to tie it.  They went on to score 23 points in overtime against one of the best defenses in the country.  Then they led basically the entire way against Michigan.

The Bruins have been playing some tremendous defense in the NCAA Tournament, and they like to slow down the pace, which is what has allowed them to win these games.  It will also allow them to keep this game close against Gonzaga with fewer possessions for both teams.  They held Michigan to 49 points, Alabama to 65 at the end of regulation, Abilene Christian to 47 and BYU to 62.

You certainly aren't getting any discounts on Gonzaga at this point after going 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their four NCAA Tournament games.  But Oklahoma, Creighton and USC all stayed within 19 points of them, and UCLA can certainly stay within 14.5 points.  It's crazy that USC was a 9-point dog to Gonzaga and now UCLA is a 14.5-point dog, a 5.5-point adjustment.  There is recency bias on the Bulldogs right now, but there clearly is no recency bias on the Bruins as nobody believes in this team.  That's just how they like it.

The Bruins are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games following a SU win.  Gonzaga is 2-11 ATS in its last 13 games after its opponent was called for 15 or fewer fouls in two consecutive games.  The Bulldogs are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games after covering four or five of their last six games against the spread.  Take UCLA Saturday.

25* NCAA Tournament GAME OF THE YEAR on Baylor -4.5

The Baylor Bears have been the second-best team in the country all season and it really hasn't even been close.  They are 26-2 this season and their only struggles came after a COVID pause for three weeks.  They went 1-7 ATS in their next eight games after the pause and entered the NCAA Tournament undervalued because of it.

After barely failing to cover in a 24-point win over Harford as 25.5-point favorites in their opener, the Bears have gone 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS since.  They beat Wisconsin by 13 as 6.5-point favorites, beat Villanova by 11 as 7.5-point favorites and topped Arkansas by 9 as 7.5-point favorites.  I think we are getting them at a huge discount here as only 4.5-point favorites over Houston now in the Final Four.

Houston has had a pretty easy path to the Final 4 unlike Houston.  The Cougars have beaten Cleveland State, Rutgers, Syracuse and Oregon State to get here.  All four of those were double-digit seeds and pulled upsets to get to Houston! This is definitely a step up in class for the Cougars.

It's worth noting that Houston has only played one team that is ranked in the KenPom Top 25 all season and that was Texas Tech (20th).  The Cougars are grossly overvalued due to their 28-3 record this season.  They nearly lost to both Rutgers and Oregon State, but pulled out both games in the closing minutes.  They won't be so fortunate here against the best team they have played all season by a wide margin.

Baylor is just so tough to tame as they average 83.0 points per game and shoot 41.1% from 3-point range as a team.  Their top five scorers all shoot 39.6% or better from 3-point range.  Houston is known for great defense, but they haven't faced an offense near the caliber of Baylor this season.  They will be shell-schocked.

Baylor is 8-1 ATS vs. good teams that outscore their opponents by 8-plus points per game this season.  The Bears are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 neutral site games.  Baylor is 5-1 ATS in its last six NCAA Tournament games.  The Bears are 33-16-2 ATS in their last 51 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Bet Baylor Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Thunder/Suns UNDER 219.5

The Phoenix Suns are so good this season because they play great defense and slow it down and get good shots on offense.  The Suns rank 23rd in pace this season at 99.1 possessions per game.  Phoenix ranks 6th in defensive efficiency, giving up just 107.2 points per 100 possessions.

Now the Suns take on the struggling Oklahoma City Thunder who are missing five of their top six scorers right now in Gilgeous-Alexander, Horford, Bazley, Dort and Muscala.  Ty Jerome is out tonight and Pokusevski is questionable.

It's no wonder the Thunder rank just 28th in offensive efficiency this season with all of the injuries they have sustained.  However, they have managed to stay more competitive than expected because they do play defense, ranking a solid 13th in defensive efficiency.

The first and only meeting between these teams this season saw just 199 combined points with a 102-97 upset victory by the Thunder.  The UNDER is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Phoenix.  The UNDER is 7-1 in Thunder last eight road games.  The UNDER is 50-22-1 in Thunder last 73 games as road underdogs.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Suns last six games playing on one days' rest.  Take the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* Bucks/Blazers NBA TV Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 236.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are scary good offensively right now with the return of CJ McCollum (24.2 PPG, 4.7 APG) from injury and the addition of Norman Powell (19.4 PPG) from the Raptors.  These two going with Damian Lillard (29.8 PPG, 7.8 APG) and Carmelo Anthony (14.0 PPG) are going to make them very tough to tame.

The recent results with these guys have been tremendous as the Blazers have scored at least 122 points in three of their last four games overall.  But their additions won't help the Blazers much defensively as they remain one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.  They rank 29th in defensive efficiency, giving up 114.5 points per 100 possessions this season.  Only the Kings have been worse.

This game will be a shootout as the Blazers won't be able to get stops against a Milwaukee Bucks team that ranks 5th in offensive efficiency at 114.2 points per 100 possessions this season.  They average 118.9 points per game this season and I see both teams topping 120 points in this one.

The OVER is 3-1 in the last four meetings with combined scores of 240, 266 and 243 points at the end of regulation in the three OVERS.  The OVER is 8-3 in Bucks last 11 games overall.  The OVER is 7-1 in Bucks last eight games following a win by more than 10 points.  The OVER is 4-0 in Blazers last four games overall.  Portland is 9-1 OVER in its last 10 games when revenging a blowout loss by 20 points or more.  Roll with the OVER in this game Friday.