4* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER on Jazz UNDER

The books have set the bar too high for Saturday's non-conference clash between the Bucks and Jazz. Both of these teams are strong defensively and the biggest key here is that neither of these teams like to push the pace. Utah ranks 26th in pace of play and the Bucks are right behind them at 27th. Milwaukee comes in averaging just 97.8 ppg over their last 5 and will be facing a Jazz defense that is only giving up 95.3 ppg at home this season. 

UNDER is 9-2 in the Bucks last 11 against a team with a losing record and 12-4-1 in their last 16 road games against a team that's won more than 60% of their games. UNDER is also 5-0 in Utah's last 5 when playing a team with a winning record and 9-3 in their last 12 off a straight up win. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Thunder -

I like the value here with OKC laying a short number on the road against the Mavs. It's only a matter of time before the Thunder get this thing figured out with Westbrook, George and Anthony. We a glimpse of their potential earlier this week when they absolutely laid it on the Warriors 108-91. They weren't able to follow it up, losing last night at home to the Pistons 98-99, but I think that puts them in a great spot here to make easy work of a bad Mavericks team. 

These two teams played earlier this month and the Thunder won easily 112-99. Dallas is just 2-11 ATS this season when revenging a loss and 0-7 when revenging a loss where they allowed more than 110 points. Take Oklahoma City! 

4* NCAAB ATS HEAVY HITTER on East Tennessee State

I think we are getting some great value here with the Buccaneers laying this short number at home against Fort Wayne. ETSU is one of the top teams out of the Southern Conference and should have no problem here winning and covering against the Mastodons, who have had all kinds of trouble away from home. Fort Wayne is just 3-14 ATS over the last 2 seasons and just 1-8 in their last 9 road games after playing their previous game on the road. ETSU was upset in their last game, but are 17-4 ATS in their last 21 off an upset loss as a favorite and 10-1 ATS in their last 11 off an upset loss as a home favorite. Take East Tennessee St! 

4* NBA Situational HEAVY HITTER on Raptors -

I like the value here with Toronto on the money line against the Pacers Friday. The Raptors lost last time out at New York 100-108, snapping a streak of 4 straight wins and covers. I look for them to get right back to their winning ways against Indiana. The Pacers have been playing well, as they come in having won and covered each of their last 4, but are now paying the price with this line at basically a pick'em. Indiana simply isn't on the same level as Toronto and while they likely keep it close, the Raptors should pull away for the win late. Note that each of the Pacers last two wins have come on the road as an underdog and that puts them in a bad spot, as they are just 1-12 ATS in their last 13 off 2 or more upset wins as a road dog. Take Toronto! 

3* NCAAB Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Oakland +

I like the value here with the Grizzlies catching a big number against the Jayhawks on Friday. Oakland is the clear-cut favorite to win the Horizon League, as they return 4 starters from last year's 25-9 team. No denying that Kansas is an elite team, but they are young and still learning how to play together. I just question how motivated the Jayhawks will be for this game during Thanksgiving break, while there's no question the Grizzlies are going to lay it all on the line against the No. 3 ranked team in the country. Kansas gets the win, but it's a lot closer than expected. Note that the Grizzlies are 27-9-1 ATS in their last 37 against a team that's won more than 60% of their games and 20-6 ATS in their last 26 road games against a team with a winning home record. Take Oakland! 

4* NCAAB Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR on Virginia -

I like the value here with the Cavaliers against the Commodores. Vanderbilt has already dropped two games in the early going and the most recent was a crushing 89-93 overtime loss at home. The Commodores are a team that relies a lot on the outside shot and that's just not a good recipe for success against Virginia, who plays as good a defense as any team in the country. The Cavaliers are holding teams nearly 20 points below their season average and teams are shooting just 37.5% against them overall and just 26.2% from behind the 3-point line. Vanderbilt doesn't provide near the threat defensively and that has this one likely turning into a blowout. Take Virginia! 

5* NCAAB Non-Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Northern Iowa +

I think we are getting some great value here with UNI as a decently priced dog against SMU. The Mustangs have started out 4-0, but that's no surprise given the cupcake schedule they have had. Only one of their games even had a line and they were favored by 17.5 in that one. I believe SMU's strong start combined with the fact that they are coming off a 30-win season, has them overvalued here against a good Panthers team. Keep in mind that the Mustangs lost 3 players who were either drafted or signed by NBA teams, including last year's AAC Player of the Year in Semi Ojeleye. 

UNI isn't going to wow you with their roster, but Ben Jacobson knows how to get the best out of his team and the Panthers have plenty of talent coming back to finish in the top 4 of the Missouri Valley for a 10th straight season. They showed a lot of that potential in their opener, when they competed in a 17-point loss at UNC. I not only think they can cover the number here, but I wouldn't be surprised if they won this game outright. Take Northern Iowa! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Spurs UNDER

No team in the NBA plays at a slower pace than San Antonio and when you combine that with how efficient the Spurs are on the defensive side of the ball, you have a perfect recipe for low-scoring games.

The key here is we are getting value with this total due to the Pelicans struggles defensively, as they come in giving up 110.4 ppg. However, New Orleans has been much better defensively against division opponents, as they are only giving up 98.5 ppg. At the same time, the Spurs aren't a great offensive team right now, as they continue to play without Leonard and Parker and come in averaging a lousy 94.6 ppg on the road. 

UNDER is 8-2 in the Pelicans last 10 vs a division opponent and 8-3-1 in their last 12 vs a team with a winning record. UNDER is also 28-15 in the Spurs last 33 road games off a home win. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Knicks UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's total between the Knicks and Raptors. These two teams just played last Friday and combined for just 191 points with a total of 217. While the books have adjusted the total for the rematch, I don't think it's near enough, as I think the two teams struggle to get to 200 points. 

Toronto is locked in right now on the defensive side of the ball, as they have held 4 of their last 5 opponents to 42% or worse shooting. They also don't mess around when facing a division opponent, as they have held their Atlantic rivals to just 91 ppg this season. New York isn't a great defensive team, but better than they get credit for and are clicking on that side of the ball right now, as they are giving up just 97.6 ppg over their last 5. 

UNDER is 7-3 in the Raptors last 10 division games and 5-1 in their last 6 when playing on 2 days of rest. UNDER is also 20-7-1 in New York's last 28 against a team from the Eastern Conference and 4-1 in their last 5 vs at team that's won more than 60% of their games. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Atlantic Division GAME OF THE MONTH on Toronto -

The Raptors are a team that I think is flying under the radar early on this season and they come into this game red-hot having won 4 straight and are 6-1 over their last 7 with the only loss a 1-point defeat to the Celtics. They have covered each of their last 4 games and I look for them to make it 5 in a row here tonight against a Knicks team they manhandled in a 107-84 win at home last Friday. 

New York is playing better than expected so far this season, as they are 9-7 through their first 16 games. However, none of their wins are all that impressive, as they have beat up on a lot of bad teams at home during this stretch. I still think this team has a long way to go to compete with the top tier teams like the Raptors. I just feel they are getting way too much respect right now and it's only a matter of time before they return to their losing ways. 

Toronto has been a covering machine on the road, going 6-3 ATS in their 9 road games this season. The Raptors also seem to save their best for division opponents, as they are 25-10 ATS in their last 35 vs teams from the Atlantic Division. NY on the other hand is just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 vs team that's won more than 60% of their games and 1-8 ATS in their last 9 division games. Take Toronto! 

4* NCAAB Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Syracuse -

I like the value here with the Orange laying what I feel is a favorable number against the Rockets. Toledo has opened up 3-0, but all 3 have come at home and against sub-par competition. This is a team that's expected to finish in the middle of the pack in the MAC and simply have no business here against Syracuse. 

The Orange have started out 4-0 and are fresh off an easy win and cover in a 74-50 win over Oakland as a mere 9-point favorite. Syracuse is really getting after it defensively, as they are holding their opponents nearly 16 points under their season average. That defensive intensity will simply be too much for Toledo to overcome, as the Rockets are a team that wants to try and outscore their opponents. Look for the big athletic guards of the Orange to be the difference in this one, as I see the home team winning here by 20+ points. Take Syracuse! 

3* NCAAB Late Night Bailout BLOWOUT on Davidson +

I like the value here with Davidson catching what I feel is a big number in a game I think they have a great shot at winning outright. The Wildcats lost the A-10's leading scorer in Jack Gibbs, but have the pieces in place to replace him. Senior forward Peyton Aldridge averaged 20.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg a year ago and is one of the best players in the A-10. He's off to a great start, averaging 27.5 ppg to start the year, but he's not the only Davidson player lighting it up, as freshman Kellan Grady is averaging 23.5 ppg and sophomore Jon Axel Gudmundsson is putting in 21.5 ppg.

The Wildcats are shooting light-outs as a team from long distance, as they come in hitting 45.3% from long-distance with an average of 19 made 3-pointers per game. Nevada is a good team and one of the best in the MWC, but I think they have their hands full here against the Wildcats. Take Davidson!  

3* NCAAB Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Southern Illinois +

I like the value here with the Salukis catching a big number against Louisville. The Cardinals haven't looked the same without Rick Pitino. While they are 2-0, they failed to cover each of their first two games, beating Georgia Mason by 11 as a 19-point favorite and Nebraska-Omaha by just 9 as a massive 27.5-point favorite. 

Southern Illinois is a team that has a chance to compete for the top spot in the Missouri Valley now that Wichita State is no longer around and this is a great measuring stick for this program early on. Look for the Salukis to be the more motivated team here and do enough to keep this within the number. Take Southern Illinois! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Dallas +

I like the value here with the Mavericks catching a big number at home against the Celtics. Boston comes in having won 15 straight and just about everyone is going to be on them here against Dallas, but the longer this streak goes the harder it gets for the Celtics, as the target on their back gets bigger and bigger as each team they play wants to be the ones responsible for ending the streak. Dallas is going to give everything they got here and they should be playing with a ton of confidence after their best showing of the season in a 111-79 win at home over the Bucks as a 6-point dog. Take Dallas! 

4* NCAAB ATS HEAVY HITTER on Oklahoma State +

I like the value here with the Cowboys catching a decent number here against the Aggies in Monday's non-conference clash at the Legends Classic in Brooklyn. Both teams have yet to lose this season, but Texas A&M is getting a lot of love for their early blowout win over West Virginia. Oklahoma State doesn't get the same respect, but they have been equally impressive going 3-0 SU and 3-0 ATS with 3 blowout wins to start the season. I actually think the Cowboys have an excellent shot at winning this game outright, but I'll gladly take the points for a little extra insurance. Take Oklahoma State! 

4* NBA Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR on Wolves -

I like the value here with the Timberwolves as a short home favorite against the Pistons. After a slow start Minnesota has caught fire and are 8-2 in their last 10. Detroit has played well, as they are 10-3 on the season, but they have lost 2 straight and are playing their 3rd straight on the road. I just don't see the Pistons coming out with a great effort here, plus the Timberwolves are simply the better team. T-wolves are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 at home, 4-1 in their last 5 vs a team with a winning record and 5-0 when playing on 1 day of rest. Take Minnesota!

3* NCAAB No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Virginia -

Look for the Cavaliers to make easy work of the Hawks on Sunday. Virginia has come out sharp to start the season and are fresh off an impressive road win and over VCU as a 6.5-point favorite. Monmouth is 2-1, but that lone loss is a double-digit defeat to Seton Hall. I look for the Hawks to struggle to keep this any where close to the number, as this is a clear NCAA Tournament team in Virginia, plus we have a great system in play backing a play on the Cavaliers. Underdogs (MONMOUTH) - good team from last season who won 60% to 80% of their games, with just one or fewer starters returning from last year in the first 5 games of the season are a mere 15-38 (28%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Take Virginia!

3* NBA NO DOUBT ATS BLOWOUT (Blazers -12.5)

I like the value here with the Blazers at home, even as a big favorite. These two teams just played last night in Sacramento with the Kings pulling out the win 86-82 as a 7-point dog. Revenge is best served in the NBA on short notice and I look for Portland to lay a beating on the Kings Saturday at home after a lackluster showing Friday. 

This has not only been a great spot to back the Kings, but also a great spot to fade Sacramento. The Blazers are 7-2-1 AT in their last 10 when playing on 0 days of rest, while the Kings are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 when playing on 0 days of rest. Sacramento is also just 1-9 ATS in their last 10 road game and 0-6 ATS in their last 6 road games vs a team with a winning home record. Take Portland! 

3* NCAAB ATS ANNIHILATOR (St. Joe's -2.5)

I like the value here with the Hawks laying a short number against the the Tigers. Princeton is way overvalued coming into the season after winning 23 game last year. The Tigers lost and failed to cover their opener at Butler and then lost by 9 as a 3.5-poing favorite against BYU at home. 

The Hawks won and covered their last game 86-82 over Illinois Chicago as a 2-point dog and that's important to note, as St Joseph's is 15-4 ATS in their last 19 after scoring 80 or more point in their last game. They are also 10-1 ATS in their last 11 against the Ivy League and 20-8 ATS in their last 28 against a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games. Take St Joe's 

3* NCAAB Late Night ENFORCER on Oregon -

I'm not sure why the books even set a line on this game, but I'll take advantage as I don't think it's going to be close at all. Oregon is a legit NCAA Tournament team and it just seems like they are flying under the radar. yes they lost a lot from last year's 33-win team, but Dana Altman is now 187-70 in 7 years in Eugene. He reloads with the best of them and has done so again, both with the incoming freshman class, as well as some nice grad transfers. 

They won their last game by 33 over Prairie View A&M and I expect an even bigger blowout here against the Bulldogs, who have already lost by 28 to Mississippi State, 34 to Iowa and 31 to South Dakota State. Take Oregon! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on UNLV -

I like the value here with the Rebels laying what I feel is a short number against an inferior team. The big reason we are seeing a low price here on UNLV, is the fact that Eastern Washington comes in off a 67-61 win at Stanford as a 16.5-point underdog. That's a nice win, but that's also a bottom-tier Pac-12 team. The previous game they lost by 10 against Washington, who also isn't anything special. Don't let the fact that the Rebels only won 11 games last year fool you. Head coach Marvin Menzies landed a big time recruiting class, headlined by 6'11 forward Brandon McCoy, who was a Top 10 talent in this year's freshmen class. 

Rebels are 10-2 ATS over the last 3 seasons in November, 10-2 in their last 12 non-conference home games and a perfect 6-0 ATS in their last 6 at home off a game where they were listed as a home favorite. Take UNLV! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Spurs UNDER

The books have set the total too high for Friday's showdown between the Spurs and Thunder. Without Kawhi Leonard the Spurs aren't the same efficient offense that we have grown accustomed to and OKC is still in the process of trying to figure out to play together. Both of these teams rank in the bottom half of the league in offensive efficiency and I just think given how big a game this is, that both teams will bring it defensively. 

Note that the Thunder have scored 94 or fewer points in 5 of their last 7 games and the Spurs only give up 98.9 ppg on the season. San Antonio has failed to reach 100 in 3 of their last 4 and twice failed to reach 90 points in this stretch. OKC is giving up just 97.1 ppg on the season and a mere 96.3 ppg on the road. 

UNDER is 13-3 in Thunder's last 16 road games and 9-2 in their last 11 off a SU win. UNDER is also 4-1 in the Spurs last 5 vs the West and 5-1 in the last 6 meetings between these two teams in San Antonio. Take the UNDER!

3* NCAAB Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Kentucky -

I like the value here with the Wildcats, as I don't think the books have set this anywhere close to enough for East Tennessee State to get the cover. Kentucky had their hands full in their first two games against experienced teams in Utah Valley and Vermont and failed to cover both. They then lost the big showdown against Kansas on a neutral court and either covered by a 1/2-point or pushed.

I think the perception is down a bit on this team and they are going to struggle against teams who have experience, as they don't have any with 5 freshmen in the starting lineup. The Wildcats also aren't a great 3-point shooting team, which is a big reason why they struggled early. They aren't going to need the 3-point shot, as the Bucs don't have the experience (only 1 returning starter) or talent to keep Kentucky from doing whatever they want. This is the ideal spot off a loss for the Wildcats to lay a beating and we will lay the big number here. Take Kentucky! 

3* NCAAB Undervalued UNDERDOG on South Alabama +

I like the value here with the Jaguars catching a big number here against the Explorers. South Alabama should be a much improved team this year, as they addressed their biggest weakness by adding in Pitt transfer Rozelle Nix, who will help sure up a team that struggled to protect the rim a year ago. This team already went on the road and were more competitive than people expected in a 25-point loss and cover against Texas Tech. 

La Salle is a team that the Jaguars can keep it close against. While the Explorers like to play at a frantic pace, they aren't known for playing a lot of defense. Last year they ranked 274th in the country, giving up 76.6 ppg. I also think we could see a less than 100% focused La Salle team here, as they have some big games coming up against Northern and Miami on neutral sites. Look for the Jaguars to keep this one closer than expected. Take South Alabama! 

3* NCAAB Afternoon ATS BLOWOUT on Boise State -

I really like the value here with the Broncos laying a short number on a neutral court in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off. Boise State is known for being a small conference football power, but they are quietly having some great success on the hardwood. The Broncos have won 20 or more games in each of the past 5 seasons and this might be the best team yet for head coach Leon Rice, who is in year 7 with the program. Boise has 3 starters back and are led by a legit NBA-talent in 6'7 senior guard Chandler Hutchison. 

UTEP needed to go on a 13-4 run in C-USA play to close out the season, yet still finished the year at 15-17. With 4 starters back the Miners should be improved, but I just think they are getting way too much respect here against a legit NCAA Tournament team. Take Boise State!

5* NCAAB No Limit GAME OF THE MONTH on Nevada -

I like the value here with the Wolf Pack laying a short number on the road against the Broncos. Nevada went 28-7 last year, taking home both the MWC regular-season and tournament titles. The Wolf Pack lost some key pieces like Cameron Oliver, Marcus Marshall and D.J. Fenner, but are loaded with talent. They have two of the MWC's best players in Lindsey Drew and Jordan Caroline, plus add in four transfers from Power 5 programs. Two of those being twins Caleb and Cody Martin, who have been huge impacts early, as Caleb leads the team at 25 ppg and Cody is 3rd with 14 ppg. 

Santa Clara is a quality team and have a couple of nice players in K.J. Feagin and Matt Hauser, but the overall depth isn't that great and this is a team that went just 17-16 last year (4th in the WCC). Even with this game at home, I don't think the Broncos have the talent to keep this one competitive against a NCAA Tournament caliber team in the Wolf Pack. Take Nevada! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Cavs 

I like the value here with Cleveland, as I feel the Cavs are being way undervalued right now due to their slow start. It's only a matter of time before LeBron James has this team playing like one of the elite teams in the league and the latest epic 4th quarter comeback over the Knicks could be just what this team needed to get things going. 

Charlotte is getting a lot of love here and I'm not sure why, as the Hornets are just 5-7 overall and have lost 4 straight. They do come in off a lengthy 4-day break, but I'm not buying that as a big positive at this point in the season. Charlotte is also just 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 against fellow teams from the east. Take Cleveland! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER 

No Analysis on LATE INFO INSIDERS 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Hawks -

This is a great spot to jump on Atlanta at home, as the Hawks are up against an equally bad team in the Kings. Atlanta should also be highly motivated here, as they try to get their first home win of the season. Keep in mind that while the Hawks are 2-12, they have only got to play 4 home games as the schedule hasn't been kind early. 

Kings are the perfect team to get that first home win against. Sacramento has lost 7 straight on the road and most of them haven't been close. Kings are getting outscored by more than 14 ppg on the road, as they are averaging a mere 92.2 ppg away from home, while giving up 106.4. Adding to this, the Hawks are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games vs a team with a losing road record. Take Atlanta! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Arizona State +

It's been a couple of tough years for head coach Bobby Hurley at Arizona State, but all signs point to year 3 being a breakout season for the Sun Devils. Arizona State brings back two big time scorers on the perimeter in senior guards Tra Holder (16.2 ppg) and Shannon Evans (15.0 ppg). It's one of the best backcourts in the Pac-12.

Last year they just didn't have the size inside and had to play 4 guards, which really hurt the defense. That's no longer an issue, as Hurley's Top 25 recruiting class addressed the issue. Freshmen Vitaliy Shibel and juco transfer De'Quon Lake are going to make a big difference this season for the Sun Devils. Lake had 24 points, 8 boards and 3 blocks in the opener, while Shibel only scored 4, he had 8 boards and 4 assists. 

San Diego State has quite a history as Steve Fisher really turned this program into a mid-major power over the years. Unfortunately for the Aztecs Fisher retired and while there's some nice talent on the roster, I think it's asking a lot for this team to go on the road and get a win here. Take Arizona State! 

4* NBA Situational ATS NO BRAINER on Mavs +

I like the value here with Dallas as a home dog against the Spurs on Tuesday. There's no denying the Mavs are a bad team, as they come in at just 2-12, but there's a lot in this team and while they are just 1-6 at home, they have been a lot more competitive at American Airlines Center. I think we get a big time effort here and cover against the Spurs. 

San Antonio is going to be one of the elite teams in the league, but not until Kawhi Leonard returns from injury. He's still out, as is starting point guard Tony Parker. The Spurs could also be without sharpshooter Danny Green, who is questionable with a hamstring injury. San Antonio has won 4 of 5, including a drubbing of the Bulls in their last game, but all of those were at home and they are just 2-3 on the road this season and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 away from home overall. Take Dallas! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER 

 No Analysis on LATE INFO INSIDERS 

3* NCAAB ATS ANNIHILATOR  on Wright State -

I like the value here with the Raiders laying a short numbers against the RedHawks. Wright State lost their opener on the road against a very good Loyola (Chicago) team 80-84, easily covering as a 12.5-point dog. The Raiders have two double-digit scorers back from last year's 20-win season, plus some nice new additions that should have them in contention in the Horizon League. 

Miami (OH) won their opener 55-54 at Fordham, but I believe this team is going to be outmatched here. The RedHawks bring back 4 starters, but los their best player in Michael Weathers, who won MAC Freshman of the Year honors a season ago. They are also in the first year under a new head coach and picked by many to finish near the basement of the MAC this season. 

Great system in play backing a fade of the RedHawks, as home teams as an underdog or pick'em that are off a win by 6 or less against an opponent that is off a loss by 6 or less are just 28-67 (29.5%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Take Wright State! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Charleston +

Wichita State is getting all kinds of love coming into the season. The Shockers are ranked in the Top 10, which is a big deal for a non-power 5 team. Wichita St looked impressive in their opener, but that was against Missouri-Kansas City. Most will look to back the Shockers here against Charleston, but this is far from another pushover. The Cougars are the clear favorite to win the CAA and are loaded with experience, returning all 5 starters from last year's 25-win team. I don't think the Cougars have enough to pull off the upset, but I see them easily keeping this within the number. Take Charleston! 

4* NCAAB Situational ATS NO BRAINER on Oklahoma State -

I think we are catching the Cowboys at a great price here at home against an under matched Charlotte team. Oklahoma State lost Jawun Evans to the NBA, along with two other starters. They also have decided to sit leading returning scorer Jeffrey Carroll due to investigations. All of that and this team went out and rolled Pepperdine 78-47 in their opener at home, as the Cowboys used a balanced attack. Charlotte won their opener 116-76 over Methodist, but that was to be expected. It sets up the 49ers in a great spot to fade, as they are just 9-22 ATS in their last 31 off a win by 20 or more and 0-7 ATS in their last 7 when listed as a dog of 10 or more. Take Oklahoma State! 

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Cavs -

I believe all the negative talk early with Cleveland has the Cavs showing great value right now and I really like them here as a short road favorite against the Knicks. While Cleveland is just 3-2 in their last 5, they are painfully close to having a 5-game winning streak, as both losses came by 4-points or less and one of those was at red-hot Houston. New York has been playing well here of late, but most of that has come against bad teams. Everyone knows LeBron loves playing at the Garden and there's extra incentive here for the Cavs after that ugly 95-114 loss at home to these Knicks in the most recent meeting. Look for them to make a statement here. Take Cleveland! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG  on Kings +

I like the value here with Sacramento as a double-digit dog against the Wizards on Monday. While Sacramento got annihilated in their last game at the Knicks, they have been playing better lately, securing wins over both the Thunder and 76ers in their last 3 games. I don't think they have enough here to knock off Washington, but I think the Wizards are going to have a tough time getting up for this one against an inferior team with a big division home-and-home series against the Heat on deck. Wizards are also just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 at home and 2-7 ATS in their last 9 off a win. Take Sacramento! 

4* NCAAB ATS HEAVY HITTER on Browns -

I cashed in on Quinnipiac in their opener at home against Dartmouth, but I'm going to go against the Bobcats here at home against Brown. The Bobcats were lucky to escape with a win over the Big Green, escaping with a 78-77 win. This is also a spot in which Quinnipiac has not performed well in the past, as they are just 2-10 ATS in their last 12 home games as a dog of 6 points or less. It's also worth pointing out that Brown has 3 returning starters to the Bobcats 2 and the Bears won the head-to-head meeting a season ago. Take Brown! 

4* NCAAB Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Pacific +

I like the value here with the Tigers catching a big number against the Cardinal. I believe this Pacific team is flying under the radar this season, as they enter year two under former NBA point guard Damion Stoudamire. The Tigers are going to play an up-tempo small-ball/position less basketball that you are seeing in the NBA. While they lost a lot from last year, they will be debuting 3 transfers who should make a big impact in Oregon's Kendall Small, St. Louis' Miles Reynolds and Dugquesne's Tyson Powell. 

I believe they have enough fire-power here to keep this well within the number against a Stanford team that only won by 16 against Cal-Poly in their opener. Note that Cal-Poly is expected to finish in the bottom 3 of the Big West this year, so that's not exactly a great team. It's also worth mentioning that the Tigers have thrived in the role of a big dog, as they are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 when listed as a road dog of 18.5 to 24 points. Take Pacific! 

4* NCAAB ATS HEAVY HITTER on Eastern Washington

I like the value here with the Eagles catching double-digits against in-state foe Washington on Sunday. The Huskies are in a bit of a transition year here under first year head coach Mike Hopkins, who was a long-time assistant at Syracuse under Jim Boeheim and will bring that same zone attack to Washington. I just think it's going to take some time before they can play the zone at the level needed for it to be effective.

The defense certainly wasn't sharp in their opener, as they gave up 82 points and allowed Belmont to shoot 49% from the field. Eastern Washington won 22 games last year and have 3 returning starters, including a big time scorer in senior Bogdan Bliznyuk, who averaged 20.6 ppg last season. I think the Eagles can not only score enough to keep this close, but wouldn't be shocked if they won this game outright. Take Eastern Washington! 

3* NCAAB UNDERVALUED UNDERDOG  on Arkansas Pine Bluff

I like the value here with the Golden Lions catching a big number against the Trojans. Arkansas-Pine Bluff went just 7-25 last year, but I like the direction of this team in 2017 under long-time head coach George Ivy. While they lost their opener to Hawaii, they lost by just 12 as an 18-point dog and did so despite shooting just 37% from the field, while the Warriors connected on 49%. I look for a much better shooting effort here from the Lions. 

Troy is a team that is coming off a 22-15 campaign, but I believe it has them overvalued early and it certainly looked to be the case in their opener, as they lost outright to North Dakota as a 7-point favorite. The Trojans likely bounce back with a win here, but I think it's a lot more competitive than the number would suggest. Take Arkansas-Pine Bluff! 

3* NBA Oddsmakers ERROR on Pistons -

I like the value here with Detroit laying a short number at home against the Heat. Miami comes in having won 2 straight and are 4-1 ATS in their last 5, but were fortunate to get a win in their last game at Utah, as the Jazz scored just 7-points in the 3rd quarter and a mere 25 in the entire 2nd half of a 84-74 win (Utah led by double-digits at the half). 

More than anything, we are going against the Heat in a really tough spot, as Miami will be playing it's 6th and final game of their lengthy 6-game road trip that started back on Nov. 3. I think they are going to be looking more forward to returning home and getting two days off than actually playing this game. Detroit on the other hand is rolling. The Pistons have won 4 straight and are 7-1 in their last 8, which includes 5 straight wins on their home floor. Take Detroit! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER

No Analysis on late releases

5* NCAAB Opening Weekend GAME OF THE MONTH on La Salle -

I really like the value here with the Explorers laying single digits at home against the Peacocks. La Salle has two of the best players in the A-10 conference in junior Pookie Powell (13.7 ppg) and senior B.J. Johnson (17.6 ppg). They also bring back experience at the point with senior starter Amor Stukes (4.3 apg). If they can get some solid productions from their bigs, I really think this is a sleeper team to watch out for in the A-10 this year. As for St. Peter's they closed out last year by winning the CIT, but the Peacocks lost 3 starters from their 23-win squad, including their top two scorers in Trevis Wyche and Quadir Welton. Take La Salle!

3* NCAAB Undervalued UNDERDOG on Quinnipiac +

I like the value here with the Bobcats at basically a pick'em at home against Dartmouth. I believe that Quinnipiac's program is headed in the right direction under new head coach Baker Dunleavy, who is the son of former NBA player and current Tulane head coach Mike Dunleavy Sr. Bobcats big man Chaise Daniels should be the best player on the floor in this one, as the there's really not a lot to like with the Big Green, who went just 3-10 outside of Ivy League play a year ago and are expected to finish in the bottom half of the league again this year. Also, Dartmouth will be without one of their best players in junior forward Evan Boudreaux, who led the team with 17.5 ppg and 9.5 rpg, as he's not eligible to play. Take Quinnipiac! 

3* NCAAB Early Bird ATS ANNIHILATOR on Buffalo -

I like the value here with the Bulls laying single digits at home against the Golden Griffins. Buffalo is one of the best teams out of the MAC and have a great mix of returning talent, as well as some big time new pieces.

The Bulls return one of their top scorers in C.J. Massinburg, as well as last year's MAC Defensive Player of the Year in Dontay Caruthers. They also added in one of the top juco players in the country in Jeremy Harris. Nate Oats has really done a fine job here and this should be his breakout season with the Bulls.

Canisius has some nice pieces, but are expected to finish in the bottom half of the MEAAC this year. Take Buffalo! 

3* NCAAB Late Night ODDSMAKERS ERROR on Southern Utah +

I think we are getting some great value here with the Thunderbirds as a massive dog in Friday's late night action against Oregon State. While the Beavers should be improved, they still got a ways to go after last year's 5-27 campaign. Simply put, this team should not be laying this big of a number here, even against one of the lower teams in the Big Sky. Take Southern Utah! 

4* NCAAB Late Night VEGAS INSIDER on Colorado State -

Larry Eustachy did a remarkable job with this Colorado State team a year ago, guiding the Rams to a 24-12 record despite being short-handed with just 7 scholarship players. He rightfully received MWC Coach of the Year honors. While Colorado St loses two big pieces in Gian Clavell and Emmanuel Omogbo, there's a nice nucleus coming back and some help in the form of junior college transfers. Sacramento State was expected to be a middle of the pack team in the Big Sky, but now are likely headed towards the basement with the loss of one of their best players in Marcus Graves. Just not enough talent left for the Hornets to keep this one respectable. Take Colorado State! 

3* NBA Situational ANNIHILATOR on Spurs -

I'll gladly back the Spurs here as a short home favorite against the Bucks. San Antonio continues to be undervalued by the books with both Leonard and Parker sidelined. It doesn't matter who is on the floor for Popovich, the Spurs are going to play at a high level, especially at home, where they are 5-1 on the season. 

Milwaukee is a good young team that is getting a lot of love from the books, but aren't playing up to their potential. The Bucks are just 3-5 ATS, with an 0-3-1 ATS mark over their last 4 games. While Milwaukee is expected to have Eric Bledsoe in action, that's likely going to throw off the chemistry, as it will take a few games for Bledsoe to get accustomed to his role with his new team. 

Spurs are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games against a team that doesn't have a winning road record and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games overall. Bucks are just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road games vs a team with a winning home record and 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 vs the Western Conference. Take San Antonio! 

3* NCAAB No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on St Bonny -

I'll back the Bonnies here to win by at least 10 at home against the Purple Eagles. St. Bonaventure returns their two backcourt stars in seniors Jaylen Adams and Matt Mobley, who are a big reason why the Bonnies are coming off their first back-to-back 20-wins seasons since the late 70's. This team is a legit threat to win A-10. Even though Adams isn't expected to play here because of an ankle injury, I believe there's a big enough gap here in talent for the Bonnies to turn this into a blowout at home. Take St. Bonaventure!

3* NBA Vegas ATS NO BRAINER on Celtics -

Even with Boston expected to be without Horford and Tatum, I see a ton of value here with the Celtics laying a short number at home against the Hornets. Kyrie Irving is playing at an MVP level and there's more than enough talent available for Boston to win at home against Charlotte. 

The Hornets aren't exactly playing well, as they have lost 3 straight and are also a miserable 1-5 on the road, which includes a loss at NY in their most recent game, where they allowed the Knicks to shoot a ridiculous 60% from the field. 

Celtics are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 home games against a team with a losing road record and the Hornets are just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 road games against a team with a winning home record. Take Boston! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER 

No Analysis on LATE INFO INSIDERS 

4* NCAAB Undervalued UNDERDOG on IPFW +

I think we are getting some good value her with the Mastodons. Oakland is the favorite to win the Horizon and rightfully so, but this Fort Wayne squad should be a serious contender in the Summit. The Mastodons went just 8-8 in league play last year but had a lead in the 2nd half of every game. This is a team to watch out for with 3 double-digit scorers coming back and I'll take them and the points Friday night. Take Fort Wayne! 

4* NCAAB Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Wofford +

I like the value here the Terriers against a South Carolina team that I'm way down on this year. The Gamecocks reached the Final 4 last year, but lost their heart and soul in Sindarius Thornwell, who averaged 21.4 ppg. They also lost two more key pieces in P.J. Dozier (13.9 ppg) and Duane Notice (10.2 ppg). South Carolina will be lucky to just make the NCAA Tournament. Wofford has some nice talent coming back, including sharpshooter Fletcher Magee, who connected on 112 3-pointers and led the team with 18.6 ppg. An outright upset isn't out of the question for the Terriers. Take Wofford! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER 

No Analysis on LATE INFO INSIDERS 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER

No Analysis on late releases

4* NBA Situational ATS NO BRAINER on Toronto -

I really like the value here with the Raptors at home against the Pelicans on Thursday. Great spot to jump on Toronto and fade the Pelicans. Raptors have failed to cover 3 of their last 4, which is definitely playing into this low number. I expect a max effort here from Toronto, as this is a key game for them to get with 6 of their next 8 on the road. 

As for New Orleans, they come in riding a 3-game winning streak, all of which have come on the road, but it's nothing to get excited about as the wins have come against the Mavs, Bulls and Pacers. Pelicans also have road wins over the Lakers and Pelicans. Simply put their 5-2 road record is a bit of a joke given the teams they have played. The only legit team they faced away from home is the Blazers and they lost by double-digits and I expect the same thing to happen here. 

Raptors are 13-4 ATS in their last 17 when they come in having failed to cover 3 of their last 4 games, while Pelicans are a mere 1-4 ATS in their last 5 against a team with a winning record. Take Toronto! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER

No Analysis on late releases

5* NBA Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Lakers +

I like the value here with LA catching a big number here against the Celtics. While Boston failed to cover in their 120-117 win at Atlanta in their last game, they are still getting way overvalued right now by the books due to the fact that they are 9-0 SU and 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games. 

The Lakers are also playing well right now. They come in having won 3 of their last 4 and have covered the spread in all 4 of these contests. Los Angeles is getting it done on the offensive side of the ball, as they have put up 107 or more in each of their last 4 games. Boston's defense has been great early, but they weren't sharp in their last game, allowing the Hawks to hit 48% from the field. I think LA can do enough here to keep this one within the number. 

You also have to keep in mind this has to be a tired Celtics team, as they are playing their 6th game in the last 10 days. Boston is just 2-11 ATS in this scheduling spot over the last 2 seasons. They are also just 2-11 ATS in their last 13 home games when they come in having covered 3 of their last 4. Take Los Angeles! 

4* NBA Situational ATS HEAVY HITTER on Magic -

I like the value here with Orlando laying a short number here at home against the Knicks. New York comes in having won 3 straight and are 6-1 in their last 7, but I feel it has them overvalued here in a really top spot. The Knicks had to use up a lot of energy in last night's 118-113 win over the Hornets, where they erased a 15-point deficit. It's going to be tough for them to bring the intensity required to win on the road playing on no rest. It's also their 3rd game in the last 4 days. 

Orlando on the other hand has had the last two days off and aren't going to be taking this game lightly after losing their last two. It's also an important game for them to win, as they have a difficult 5-game West coast trip coming up after this contest.

Even with the Magic coming off back-to-back losses, they are still sitting at 6-4 on the season. The offense really let them down in their last two games and should get back on track here against a Knicks defense that has allowed 100+ in 5 straight games. Take Orlando! 

4* NBA Public ATS ANNIHILATOR on Kings +

I like the value here with Sacramento catching double-digits at home in Tuesday's late night NBA action on NBATV. Tough spot for OKC to show up with the kind of intensity needed to turn this into a blowout, as the Thunder have to have some tired legs playing in what will be their 5th road game  over their last 6. OKC has also been overvalued by the books here of late, as they are just 3-5 ATS over their last 8. 

I know the Kings haven't looked good and come in having lost 7 straight, but I expect a big effort here in a nationally televised home contest against one of the top teams in the league. 

Oklahoma City is just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games against a team that's won fewer than 40% of their home games. Kings on the other hand are a rock solid 15-5 ATS in their last 20 when they come in having failed to cover 4 of their last 5 games. Take Sacramento! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER on Pacers UNDER

I think we are getting some great value here with the total in Tuesday's NBA matchup between the Pacers and Pelicans. I look for this one to stay well below the mark set by the books. Indiana comes in off 3 high scoring games on the road, which is certainly playing into this total. However, the UNDER is 3-1 in the Pacer's 4 home games this season.

In their last two home games they held the Spurs to just 94 points and the Kings to 83. New Orleans has two studs, but lacks shooting and have failed to eclipse 100 points in each of their last 4 games. At the same time, the Pelicans have been playing well on the defensive side of the ball, allowing just 100.8 ppg over their last 5. 

UNDER is 14-4 in the Pacers last 18 after allowing 105 or more points in 3 straight games and 11-1 in the Pelicans last 12 road games off a road win. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Late Night VEGAS INSIDER on Nets UNDER

With Brooklyn having gone OVER the total in 3 straight games, where all 3 games saw at least 235 combined points and Phoenix having allowed 112 or more points in each of their last 5 games, I think the books have made a big overreaction here with the total for tonight's game and created some big time value on the UNDER. 

Phoenix ranks second in the NBA in pace, but I just don't see how they are going to have the energy to push the ball up and down the floor tonight. The Suns just finished a 5-game road trip that spanned 9 days with yesterday's game at San Antonio. It's hard enough playing on no rest as it is, but this is just brutal. I look for Phoenix to really try to slow things down and that should be more than enough to keep this below the massive mark set by the books.

UNDER is 12-2 in the Nets last 14 after scoring 105 or more points in 3 straight games. It's also 11-4 in the Suns last 15 when coming off a game in which they failed to cover the spread and 5-1 in their last 6 at home against a team with a losing road record. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR  on Celtics -

Boston heads to Atlanta on Monday having won and covered in each of their last 8 games to improve to 8-2 after their 0-2 start to the year. The Celtics cruised to a 104-88 win at Orlando yesterday to improve to a perfect 6-0 ATS on the road this season. 

I think we are getting some decent value here with Boston against a bad Hawks team after they pulled off a surprising 117-115 upset win at Cleveland yesterday as an 11-point dog. While the win looks impressive, I think it's more of a result of how bad the Cavs are playing right now than Atlanta turning the corner. The Hawks are still a miserable 2-8 on the season and have yet to win a game at home. 

Atlanta is just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 home games vs a team with a winning road record and just 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games vs fellow teams from the Eastern Conference. Celtics are 33-16-2 ATS in their last 51 road games, 6-1 ATS in their last 7 vs a team with a losing record and a perfect 8-0 ATS in their last 8 following a SU win by more than 10 points. Take Boston! 

5* NBA Eastern Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Hawks UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Monday's NBA action between the Celtics and Hawks. The UNDER is an impressive 6-2 during Boston's 8 game winning streak. The Celtics have held all 8 opponents during this stretch to 94 or fewer points. 

Atlanta is only averaging 102.7 ppg and scoring roughly 5 points fewer than what their opponents have been allowing on the season (107.4 ppg). While the Hawks defense hasn't been great, Boston's not exactly lighting it up offensively. The Celtics are only scoring 102.9 ppg and big reason for that is they rank in the bottom 5 in pace of play. 

They figure to play at an even slower pace than normal tonight, as the Celtics are not only playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back set, but their 3rd road game in the last 4 days. Atlanta is also playing for the 3rd time in 4 days, so they too won't be looking to get up and down the floor. 

UNDER is 6-1 in the Hawks last 7 when playing on 0 days of rest and a perfect 4-0 in their last 4 home games against a team with a winning road record. UNDER is also 8-1 in the Celtics last 9 after scoring 100+ points in their previous game and 25-8 in their last 33 road games when coming off a win. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Knicks UNDER

I really like the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's matchup between the Knicks and Pacers. I believe the number here has been inflated due to recent results, as the OVER has cashed in each of the Pacers last two games and each of the last 3 for the Knicks. 

These Sunday games have to be the least popular day for NBA players to play and it often leads to sluggish showings on the offensive side of the ball. That's been the case for both of these teams, as the UNDER is 15-6 in the Knicks last 21 games played on Sunday and 6-2 in the Pacers last 8 on Sunday. 

We also got a great system in play here favoring this one to finish below the mark. UNDER is 44-18 (71%) going back to 1996 when you have a total of 210 to 219.5 where the road team comes in having scored 105 or more points in 2 straight games and is facing an opponent that has had a combined scored of 215 or more in each of their last 3 games. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Rockets -

The Rockets are finally connecting on their 3-point shots. After pouring in 19 3-pointers in a 119-97 win and cover at New York on Wednesday, they fired back with 16 more made 3-pointers in Friday's 119-104 win at Atlanta. Poor shooting from the outside had really been the only thing keep ing Houston back. I like the hot shooting to continue at home against the Jazz on Sunday and wouldn't be shocked if we saw another lopsided win for the Rockets. 

The Jazz have been playing better than some expected after losing Hayward in the offseason, but most of their success has come at home. In fact, they are 0-3 so far on the road, where they are scoring just 89.7 ppg and getting outscored by an average of 10 ppg. Utah simply doesn't have the offensive fire-power to keep this one close and it's worth noting that the home team is a solid 7-3 ATS in there last 10 meetings in the series. Take Houston! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Hawks +

I really like the value here with Atlanta as a big dog agains the Cavaliers on Sunday afternoon. I know the Hawks are one of the bottom feeders this season, but we can expect a max effort here from Atlanta against Cleveland, as the Cavs get everyone's best shot. 

Cleveland comes in off a 130-122 win at Washington, where they somehow found themselves in a dog fight despite James going off for 57 points. That's not a good sign and the defense was once again awful, allowing the Wizards to shoot 53.6% from the field. Cleveland had lost 4 straight overall and 6 straight against the spread prior to that win and cover over Washington. That included outright losses to both the Nets and Knicks, who I would put in a similar class to Atlanta. 

Cavs are just 4-11 ATS in their last 15 games against a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games and 0-7 ATS in their last 7 home games against a team with a losing road record. Take Atlanta! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Mavs +

I'm not expecting Dallas to pull off the upset, but I think this line has been inflated to the point where there's too much value on the Mavericks to pass up. Minnesota comes in having won 3 straight, but are still just 5-3 on the season and could find it hard to take Dallas all that serious given how bad the Mavs have been and how well they have been playing of late. 

One reason I believe Dallas can keep this closer than the books are calling for is the Timberwolves defense has been sub-par at best for the majority of this season and offense is the biggest weakness for the Mavs. Minnesota comes in allowing 113.1 ppg and opposing teams on the season are hitting 50.8% of their attempts against them. 

Timberwolves are just 8-19 ATS in their last 27 home games off a win, while the Mavs are a solid 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 road games against a team with a winning home record. Take Dallas! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Pistons -

Detroit should have no problem winning here by double-digits at home against the Kings on Saturday. I know the Pistons are in the 2nd leg of a back-to-back set, but this is a deep team that's getting outstanding production from their bench. Sacramento is also one of the worst teams in the league, who enters this game just 1-7 on the season.

The Kings have been atrocious on the offensive end of the floor, as they come in averaging a futile 93.1 ppg and are shooting just 42.7% from the field on the season. They are getting outscored on average by 12.4 ppg, as the defense is giving up 105.5 ppg. I just don't see them scoring enough here, as Detroit is holding opponents to just 96.0 ppg at home. Kings haven't even eclipsed 90 points in their last 3 and have lost 4 straight by at least 12 points. 

Pistons are a solid 40-22 ATS over the last 3 seasons when listed as a home favorite and are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 home games against a team with a losing record, as well as 6-1 ATS in their last 7 vs the Western Conference. Take Detroit! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total DOMINATOR on Spurs UNDER

I don't see Friday's matchup between the Spurs and Hornets reaching 200 points, as I expect both teams to bring the defensive intensity in this one. San Antonio has followed up a 4-0 start by dropping their last 4. The most recent being a 92-112 loss to the Warriors at home last night. San Antonio isn't use to stretches like this and know the best way to get back on track is to turn up the defensive pressure. 

Charlotte has won 3 straight and are off a 126-121 win over the Bucks. Head coach Steve Clifford wasn't exactly happy with the victory. He said it was the worst showing on defense the Hornets have had this season. I expect his team to respond with a big time effort. It will help they are catching the Spurs in the second game of a back-to-back. San Antonio has also been struggling offensively here of late, scoring 94 or fewer points in each of their last 4 games. 

Keep in mind these are two teams that rank in the Top 10 on the season in defensive efficiency. UNDER is also 4-1 in the Hornets last 5 road games, 5-2-1 in the Spurs last 8 against the Eastern Conference and 6-1 in their last 7 games played on Friday. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Spurs -

It's been a tough go of things for San Antonio here of late. The Spurs have lost 4 straight after starting out the season 0-4. With Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker still sidelined, I think the perception on this team has taken a big hit and thus they are showing big time value here as a slim 3-point home favorite. 

One thing that is getting overlooked is that the Spurs have played just 3 home games and 3 of the 4 losses during their skid have came on the road. The other was at home last night against the best team in the league in the Warriors. In their previous two home games they knocked off a quality opponent, beating the Timberwolves 107-99 and the Raptors 101-97. While Charlotte has been playing well, they aren't on the same level as those two teams and are just 1-2 on the road. 

Spurs shooting of late hasn't been great, but they are an impressive 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games following a stretch where they went 3 straight games shooting 42% or worse from the field. Take San Antonio! 

5* NBA Non-Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Rockets -

I'll gladly back Houston laying single digits on the road against the Hawks. The Rockets are coming off their best performance since their opening win at Golden State, as they knocked off the Knicks 119-97 in New York. Houston finally got going from long-distance with 19 3-pointers and their poor shooting from the outside had played a big role in their slow start. 

Atlanta simply doesn't have the talent to keep this one competitive. The Hawks have lost 7 straight since their opening win over the Mavs, who are another team competing for the honor of worst team in the league. Atlanta is one of the worst shooting teams, connecting unjust 42.6% of their field goal attempts. They are also not good defensively, giving up 109 ppg. 

Adding incentive here for Houston is the fact that they have lost 7 straight to Atlanta, with the last win in the series coming all the way back in 2013. Don't doubt for a second that's not on the mind of the Rockets players. That should be more than enough motivation for them to turn this into a blowout. Take Houston! 

4* NBA Situational HEAVY HITTER on Magic -

This might seem like a big number for the Magic to be laying, but few teams are playing as well as Orlando out of the gates and the Bulls are in the running for the honor of being the worst team in the league. I mean Chicago's starting five is a joke. It's expected to be rookie Lauir Markkanen, Brook Lopez, Justin Holliday, Jerian Grant and David Nwaba. 

So far the Bulls only win has come at home against the equally pathetic Hawks. Their 6-point loss at Miami on Wednesday is their smallest margin of defeat and the Heat aren't exactly playing well. The Magic's only two losses have come on the road in their impressive 6-2 start and they are getting it done on both sides, averaging 114.9 ppg and have held half their opponents under 100 points. They should be able to do whatever they want here against the Bulls on offense and Chicago just doesn't have the offensive fire-power. Bulls are averaging a mere 88 ppg over their last 5. Take Orlando! 

3* NBA Late Night Total DESTROYER on Lakers/Blazers UNDER

One of the things that I think is getting overlooked with this Lakers team early on is their improvements on defense. Last year LA ranked dead last in the league in defensive efficiency at 110.6. This year they are sitting at 6th at 100.0. I know it's early, but that's a very encouraging sign. 

I think that defense will play a big role in tonight's game against the Blazers, who are going to have tired legs after last night's overtime loss to the Jazz. Their stars in McCollum and Lillard both played more than 40 minutes. 

At the same time, I think Portland still shows up here defensively in a nationally televised game on TNT. I just don't think they have their normal pace offensively. Blazers are another team that's started out much better on the defensive side, as they ranked in the bottom 10 in defensive efficiency and are in the Top 5 to start out 2017. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Late Night Total BAILOUT on Clippers UNDER

I think we are getting some value here with the total, as this one has all the signs of a game that is going to stay UNDER the mark set here by the books. Los Angeles is coming off an embarrassing 28-point loss at home the Warriors, where they gave up 141 points to Golden State. 

I expect the Clippers to bounce back in a big way on the defensive side of the ball. Keep in mind that they came into that game having held 4 of their first 5 opponents under 100 points with the Blazers 103 the most they had allowed in a single game. 

Dallas might be lucky to break 90, as they are scoring just 90.3 ppg on the road this season. The Mavs also play at one of the slowest paces in the league. Only Chicago and Utah are playing at a slower pace. Add that with the Clippers not being as up-tempo as years past with Chris Paul no longer running the point and there just doesn't figure to be enough possessions to eclipse this mark. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Jazz UNDER

Utah is your ideal NBA team for low-scoring games. The Jazz are playing at the slowest pace of any team in the league, while ranking near the bottom of the league in offensive efficiency and near the top in defensive efficiency. As low as this total might seem given today's high-scoring NBA, the average score in Utah's game this season is just 184.1 ppg.

The fact that the Jazz are playing at home is also important to note. Not only do opposing teams tend to struggle away from home, Utah is one of the more difficult places to play because of the thin air. So far this season they are only giving up 88.2 ppg at home. Portland is a good offensive team, but we saw them score just 85 last time out at home against the Raptors. The Blazers are also playing really good defense, limiting opponents to just 98.3 ppg. 

UNDER 5-1-1 in Utah's 7 games this season and 5-2 in Portland's 7 games. All signs point to another low-scoring game here that stays well below the mark set by the books. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Pacers UNDER 

This might feel like it's not enough points with how poorly the Cavs have been playing defensively, but I expect Cleveland to tighten things up against one of their Central Division rivals. Another thing is that the Cavs aren't clicking offensively, scoring just 101 ppg over their last 3.

That offense will be put to the test by an Indiana defense that has each of their last two opponents under 95 points. We can bank on a strong effort here by the Pacers against Cleveland, who is the measuring stick for all these other Eastern Conference teams. 

I also don't think we see a fast pace here. Cleveland's the oldest team in the league and their coach has flat out called them out of shape. Indiana on the other hand is playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back and their 3rd in 4 days. The UNDER is a strong 34-14 in the Pacers last 48 when playing 3 in 4.

We also find a strong system in play. The UNDER is 35-13 (73%) when you have a total of 210 to 219.5 involving a team that's gone under the total by 12 or more points in two consecutive games (Pacers) and are playing a division opponent. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Pacers +

I like the value here with Indiana catching double-digits against the Cavaliers. Cleveland is simply getting way too much respect for what they have done in the past and not based on how they are playing. The Cavs aren't playing any defense, their head coach has called them out of shape and the offense lacks chemistry without Irving at the point. 

Cleveland has lost 3 straight overall and 5 in a row against the spread, with two losses outright as double-digit favorites. Indiana on the other hand is playing better than anyone expected after they traded away Paul George and as a result are 4-1 ATS in their last 5. I think this one means a lot more to the Pacers than it does the Cavs and wouldn't be shocked if we saw Indiana pull off the upset. 

Cleveland is 1-10 ATS in their last 11 off an upset loss as a home favorite and 0-8 ATS when off a double-digit loss as a favorite of 6 or more. Take Indiana! 

4* NBA Over/Under VEGAS INSIDER on Nets UNDER

I like the value here with the total in Tuesday's NBA action between the Suns and Nets. I think the books have set the total way too high for this contest. Brooklyn's offense has struggled the past two games, scoring just 86 at New York and 111 at home to the Nuggets. The more telling stat is that the Nets have shot under 42% from the field in 4 straight games. 

Phoenix has been playing much better on defense under interim coach Jay Triano, allowing just 105.7 ppg after giving up 128.7 ppg under Watson. They have also been a lot better at defending the 3-point shot. Offensively the Suns are only scoring 102.5 ppg and a mere 97.5 ppg on the road. I just don't see enough offense here from Phoenix for this to go over this high total. 

UNDER is 5-2-1 in the Nets last 8 against a bad team that's won fewer than 40% of their games and 10-4-2 in their last 16 after giving up 100 or more points in their previous game. Take the UNDER! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Pacers UNDER

No analysis on late plays

3* NBA Situational UNDERVALUED UNDERDOG on Magic +

While the Magic just lost and failed to cover in yesterday's 113-120 loss at Charlotte as a 4-point dog, I really like how Orlando is playing to start the year. This is a young team that is out to prove to the rest of the league they must be taken seriously this season and they are shooting lights out, hitting 48.4% from the field and 43.5% from behind the 3-point line. 

They already have blowout wins over both the Cavaliers and Spurs and I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if they don't win this one outright. New Orleans has two studs in Davis and Cousins, but I lack depth and are in a prime letdown spot after that huge comeback win in Boogie's return to Sacrament and blowout win over LeBron James and the Cavs on Saturday. 

Pelicans are just 13-29 ATS in their last 42 off a home blowout win by 20 or more points and a miserable 2-13 ATS when they are off an upset win by 15 or more as a home dog. Take Orlando! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Sixers UNDER

I expect a highly competitive game on Monday when the Rockets host the 76ers in Houston. While Philadelphia is just 2-4 on the season, their 4 losses have come against the Wizards, Celtics, Raptors and these same Rockets. That defeat to Houston came last Wednesday, where the 76ers lost on a last second shot. 

Those two combined for just 209 points and that was with a huge 64 point 1st quarter. After that neither team scored more than 26 in a single quarter and I look for defense to again be the story with the familiarity these two teams now have with each other. Both teams could also be missing some key scorers. Philadelphia's J.J. Redick is questionable with a back injury and Houston, who is already without Chris Paul, could be minus Eric Gordon, who is also questionable. 

Houston is considered a great OVER team, but that's just not been the case this season. They went OVER the total in their opener at Golden State, but have since went UNDER in 6 straight games and it's just as much their offense not producing at the same level as it is their improved play defensively. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER on Heat UNDER 

The books have set the bar to high for Monday's matchup between the Timberwolves and Heat. Minnesota is coming off a huge 119-116 home win over the Thunder and the OVER is 5-0-1 in their 6 games this season. I believe that has this total number a bit higher than it should be.

It's only a matter of time before Thibodeau gets the Timberwolves playing better on the defensive side of the ball and I expect a big effort here coming off 2 days of rest. I also think we get a strong  effort here from Miami at home, as they will be trying to avoid a third straight loss. 

UNDER is 13-2 in the Wolves last 15 road games after a contest in which they covered the spread and 10-0 in their last 10 road games off an upset win over a division rival as a home dog. 

We also have a great system in play here backing a low-scoring game. UNDER is 32-8 (80%) going back to 1996 when you have a total of 210 or more and a game featuring a well-rested team playing just their 2nd game in 5 days, who had a losing record the year before. Take the UNDER!

4* NBA Situational HEAVY HITTER on Magic UNDER

The Magic have been impressive on the offensive side of the ball as they are scoring 118 ppg early. I think that has this total a little too high for this division showdown on the road against a hungry Hornets team that is looking to bounce back from a ugly home loss to the Rockets on Friday. Even after allowing 109 at home to Houston, Charlotte is giving up just 97.7 ppg at home on the season. 

I think their defense gives Orlando trouble here, plus I think we could see a flat Magic team taking the floor, as they have won 3 straight and are fresh off a blowout win over the Spurs. Both meetings in Charlotte last year finished with fewer than 203 points and the Magic scored just 81 and 88 in the two games. 

UNDER is 30-15 in the Hornets last 45 home games after going under the total in their previous game and 17-3 in their last 20 home games against a division opponent! Take the UNDER!

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Wizards -

no analysis on late additions

3* NBA Afternoon Total DESTROYER on Bucks UNDER

The books have set the bar too high for Sunday's afternoon showdown between the Bucks and Hawks. The only two teams to score more than 100 points on Milwaukee this season are the Cavaliers and Blazers, who have some big time offensive weapons. Atlanta doesn't even have one top tier player on their roster and are scoring just 98.5 ppg. The only time the Hawks have eclipsed 100 points is games against bottom feeders Dallas and Brooklyn. 

While Atlanta is struggling to put the ball in the basket, they are playing respectable on defense. Milwaukee also isn't a great offensive team, as they just don't have a lot of shooting. Bucks are only putting up 102 ppg. I think we see both offenses fail to reach the century mark in this one. 

UNDER is 20-6-1 in the Bucks last 27 when facing an opponent who scored 100+ in their previous game. UNDER is also 22-8-2 in the Hawks last 32 after they allowed 100+ in their previous game and 22-9 in their last 31 after playing a non-conference game. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Late Night BAILOUT GAME OF THE MONTH on Pistons UNDER

I like the value here with UNDER quite a bit in Saturday's late night action between the Pistons and Clippers. Los Angeles just allowed 100 points for the first time this season, as they gave up 103 points to the Blazers. The Clippers are still giving up just 91.7 ppg and that number drops to just 86 ppg at home. 

Detroit is a team they can lock down on and keep from putting up a big number. The Pistons have benefited from playing a soft schedule when it comes to the defenses they have faced. In fact, they are averaging just 106 ppg against teams that on average give up 107 ppg. Detroit is also not bad defensively, as they are allowing just 102 ppg and the Clippers aren't as dynamic offensively without Chris Paul running the point. 

The Pistons scored 122 in their last game, but that's actually a good thing for us, as the UNDER is 25-11 in Detroit's last 36 after a game where they scored 120 or more points. UNDER is also 5-1 in their last 6 home games and 4-0 in their last 4 when they are playing a team that scored 100+ in their previous game. Take the UNDER!

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Sixers OVER 

I think we get a much higher scoring game than the books are expecting on Saturday when the Mavericks host the 76ers. Both of these teams are struggling on the defensive side of the ball. Philadelphia is giving up 111.3 ppg on the road and the Mavericks are allowing 109.2 ppg at home. 

Dallas has held 3 of their 6 opponents under 100 points, but that's a bit misleading. Two of those came against the Grizzlies, who aren't a team built to score a ton and the other was against the Kings. They allowed 117 to the Hawks, 133 to the Warriors and 107 to the Rockets. The 76ers' defensive numbers are a bit skewed from one game where they held the Pistons to just 86 points. They have allowed 100+ in every other game. 

I look for both teams to eclipse the 100 point mark in this one and this one finishing closer to 220 than 205. OVER is 11-1 in the 76ers last 12 road games off a home loss and 7-3-1 in the Mavs last 11 games off a loss. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER on Rockets UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's NBA action between the Rockets and Grizzlies. Houston is a team the public looks to play the OVER on because of how great they were offensively last year, but the Rockets offense hasn't been producing like it had a season ago. The Rockets scored 122 in their opener against Golden State, but haven't scored more than 107 in each of their 4 games since. They are also playing much better on defense, giving up just 102 ppg. 

Memphis is an ideal UNDER team, as they like to play a more grind it out style, where they work for good shots on offense and lock down defensively. The Grizzlies are scoring just 100.4 ppg and giving up 95.2 ppg. 

Another key factor here is these two teams just played a little over a week ago and the game finished with 188 points. I think we see a very similar outcome in this one. UNDER is 15-4 in the Rockets last 19 road games with a line of +3 to -3 and 20-9 in the Grizzlies last 29 games when listed as a home favorite. Take the UNDER!

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Thunder - 

OKC will be out for revenge and I expect them to get it. The Thunder suffered a heartbreaking 113-115 loss at home to the Timberwovles on Sunday, where Wiggins banked in a 3-pointer at the buzzer. That loss is definitely fresh in the minds of OKC and with this game also being part of the NBATV double-header, we can bank on a max effort here from the Thunder. 

Minnesota isn't going to back down, but I've got my concerns with the Timberwolves right now. The defense hasn't been good at all. They have allowed all 5 of their opponents to shoot at least 46% from the field. I think a big part of that is they don't have much for a bench and tonight they are likely with a less than 100% Jimmy Butler, who is expected to play but still dealing with a cold that's kept him out of the last two games. 

Road favorites who are playing only their 2nd game in 5 days are an impressive 119-37 (73%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Take Oklahoma City! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Spurs UNDER

I think we are getting some good value here with the total in Friday's non-conference matchup between the Spurs and Magic. Orlando has been an offensive juggernaut thru 4 games, averaging 119 ppg. I just don't think the talent is there for them to sustain that production and it's aided by an easy early schedule, which includes 2 games against the Nets. 

The Spurs are an elite team and off to a 4-0 start. Believe it or not they have never started 5-0 in their franchises history. Not that they need any motivation, this team shows up to work no matter who they are missing or who the opponent is. Their strong start has a lot to do with their defense, which is only giving up 93.2 ppg. I'm willing to bet the Spurs dictate the tempo here and this total stays under 200 points. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under HEAVY HITTER on Bulls OVER

I like the value here with the total and tonight's game between the Bulls and Hawks going over the low mark set by the books. Both of these teams are in the early stages of rebuilding their roster and are also adjusting to a lot of new pieces. No surprise that defense has been an issue for both of these teams. Chicago is giving up 107.7 ppg and the Hawks are allowing 110.0 ppg. 

Offensively both of these teams are going to be challenged when facing the top tier of the league, but they are more than capable of putting up a big number against the other bottom feeders and that's exactly what I expect to see here. Atlanta had 117 against the Mavs and 104 vs the Nets. Chicago hasn't even got a crack at bad team, having played the Raptors, Spurs and Cavs, but did just score 112 at Cleveland. 

OVER is 8-2 in Atlanta's last 10 vs a team with a losing record and 5-2 in the Bulls last 7 home games against a team with a losing road record. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Late Night Total NO BRAINER on Lakers UNDER

I like the value here with the total in Wednesday's late night action that has the Wizards visiting the Lakers. Washington's backcourt duo of Wall and Beal are going to take this one personal against the Lakers. They are going to come in looking to shut down Lonzo Ball. I look for their effort defensively on Ball to take him completely out of his game, much like we saw in the Lakers opener when Patrick Beverly made it personal guarding Ball and LA managed just 92 points on 41% shooting. 

Washington's offense can get up and down the floor, but they aren't as efficient on the road. After scoring 120 against the 76ers and 115 against the Pistons at home, they managed just 109 at Denver. Not that 110 is bad, but we are talking about a total of 230+ points. Add in this being a nationally televised game on ESPN and I think the effort will be there on the defensive side of the ball for both teams. 

We got a great system in play here. UNDER is 26-6 (81%) since 1996 when you have a total of 210 or more with a team that had a losing record the previous season and is playing only their 2nd game in 5 days. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Late Night ATS BAILOUT on Wizards - 

Washington's backcourt duo of Wall and Beal are going to take this one personal against the Lakers. They are going to come in looking to shut down Lonzo Ball. I look for their effort defensively on Ball to take him completely out of his game, much like we saw in the Lakers opener when Patrick Beverly made it personal guarding Ball and LA managed just 92 points on 41% shooting. 

While those two take it upon themselves to make his life miserable, Washington should have no problem building up a big lead here and winning by double-digits. The Wizards have been all business during their 3-0 start and I think the Lakers are way overvalued because of all the publicity this team gets and hype around Ball. They are 1-2 with both losses coming at home by at least 7 points. Take Washington! 

5* NBA Best Bet 'VEGAS INSIDER'  on Mavs UNDER 

The Grizzlies are come in allowing just 94.0 ppg and that's really impressive when you consider they have faced both the Warriors and Rockets. Memphis held Golden State's high-powered attack to just 101 points and two days later held Houston to a mere 90 points. Clearly the Grizzlies are locked in on the defensive side of the ball and I see no reason why they won't shut down a Dallas offense that is as limited as they come. 

In fact, the Mavericks are so limited they are trying to slow the game down and grind out each possession just to be competitive. That's going to make it hard for either team to eclipse the 100 point mark and I wouldn't be shocked if this one finished closer to 180 points. Keep in mind they played a game last year towards the beginning of the season where they combined for a whopping 144 points. 

UNDER is 25-9 in the Grizzlies last 34 road games off a win over a division rival and 22-7-1 in the Mavericks last 30 games after they scored 100 or more point sin their previous game. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under TOTAL DOMINATOR On Rockets UNDER

I like the value here with the total and this one staying UNDER the mark set by the books. Houston hasn't looked like the offensive juggernaut from last year and could find it hard to get going against a stingy 76ers defense that has held it's 4 opponents to just 42.8% shooting. A impressive feat given they have played the Wizards, Celtics, Raptors and Pistons, with 3 of the 4 on the road. 

The other key here is that Philadelphia isn't a great offensive team. They are only shooting 42.3% from the field and scoring a mere 99.5 ppg. While the offense is still trying to finds it's rhythm, Houston's defense has played really well. They gave up 121 to the Warriors in Golden State, but have held all 3 opponents since that game to 100 or fewer. 

This has also been a very profitable spot to back the UNDER in Rockets' games. The UNDER is 14-4 in Houston's last 18 road games with a line of +3 to -3. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Western Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Blazers UNDER

The books have set the bar way too high for tonight's Western Conference clash between the Blazers and Pelicans. Portland will finally get to play a game at home after opening the season with 3 straight on the road and have had a full two days off to get back their legs. I expect a big time defensive effort here by a very underrated Blazers team.

They should be able to keep the Pelicans in check, as there's not a lot you have to worry about outside of the two bigs in Cousins and Davis. Prior to giving up 113 to Milwaukee the Blazers held the Pacers to 96 and the Suns to a mere 76. I think this one ends up closer to 210 than 220. 

UNDER is 15-4 in the Pelicans last 19 road games after they scored 110 or more points in each of their previous two games and 13-3 in their last 16 road games after covering the spread in 2 straight. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Wolves OVER

The Pacers have allowed 112 or more points in each of their first 3 games and I look for that trend to continue here against the Timberwolves, who after struggling to get going offensively against two of the better defensive teams in the Jazz and Spurs, exploded for 115 points in a win at OKC. I think we could see Minnesota go off for 120+ here, which means we just need Indiana to reach 100 points to have an excellent shot at this going over the mark set here by the books. 

Indiana will be without one of their better players in Myles Turner, but there's a lot more talent on this Pacers roster than people think. OVER is 10-1 in the Pacers last 11 road games and a perfect 7-0 in their last 7 on the road against a team with a winning home record. OVER is also 8-2 in the Timberwolves last 10 vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games and 5-0 in their last 5 off a SU win. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER on Bulls UNDER

Chicago was going to feature one of the worst rosters in the league when they were healthy and they are without at least 3 starters and 4 of their best players with Kris Dunn, Zach LaVine, Nikola Mirotic and Bobby Portis all sidelined with injury or suspension. Last time out the Bulls managed just 77 points on 38% shooting and it's going to be an offensive struggle until they start getting some of those guys back. 

Cleveland isn't going to cut them any slack, as the Cavs come into this one off an embarrassing 21-point home loss to the Magic. Prior to that they held both the Celtics and Bucks under 100 points and should keep Chicago well below the century mark. Cavs are still trying to find themselves offensively and missing a key piece with point guard Derrick Rose sidelined with an ankle injury. At the same time, Cleveland could score 120 points and this could still go UNDER this high total. Take the UNDER!