3* NBA Afternoon Bookie DESTROYER on Thunder +

If this isn't the definition of a public trap, I don't know what is. The 76ers come in having won 3 straight. The last two being a 120-96 win at Indiana and a 149-107 thrashing of the Timberwolves at home. The Thunder come in off a home loss to the Lakers and are a mere 1-5 in their last 6. 

The public won't be able to bet the 76ers fast enough, which is why I'm jumping on OKC in this one. Good chances Embiid doesn't play, as he's dealing with a bad back. I think not having him against this Thunder team would be a big blow, but either way I think OKC gets back on track. Take Oklahoma City! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Wolves -

This is just too good a price to pass up on with Minnesota at basically a pick'em at home. The Spurs have been playing better of late and come in off a win at Dallas, but are just 8-14 away from home this season. Timberwolves are 15-7 SU and 14-8 ATS at home compared to 6-16 SU and 9-13 ATS on the road. 

Big time bounce back spot for Minnesota, who just got annihilated in a 149-107 loss at Philadelphia last time out. On top of that, the Timberwolves have some serious revenge in play, as they lost 124-98 at San Antonio in the most recent meeting. 

Wolves are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 home games in the month of January and a perfect 9-0 ATS in their last 9 home games after a combined score of 215 or more in 2 straight games. Take Minnesota! 

3* NBA Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE on Hornets -

Easy play here on Charlotte at basically a pick'em at home. I think we are getting big time value here with the Hornets because of the fact that the Kings come in having won and covered 3 straight, including a win and cover against these very Hornets on their home floor. 

Charlotte won at San Antonio, but finished up their 6-game road trip at 2-4. I think whenever a team struggles on a long trip, they end up showing some decent value in their first game back home. Add in the revenge angle here and I not only like the Hornets to cover, but I got them winning this game in a blowout. 

Kings are just 1-4 ATS last 5 road games vs a team with a winning home record and Kings head coach Dave Joerger is a mere 44-68 ATS last 112 when working on 2 or more consecutive wins. Take Charlotte! 

5* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Clippers -

I absolutely love this spot and price on the Clippers at home against the Jazz. I think this is the ideal spot to jump on Los Angeles and the perfect time to fade Utah. 

We know we are getting a big effort here from the Clippers, as they have to be looking at this game as a must win. After this they host the Warriors and then play 4 straight on the road. They come in having lost 3 straight and things can spiral out of control quickly if you aren't careful, especially in the Western Conference. 

Utah has won a season-high 4 straight games, but haven't exactly looked great doing so and the 4 wins all came at home against the likes of the Magic, Lakers, Bulls and Pistons. Jazz are still without their top 3 point guards, which has forced Donovan Mitchell to play out of position. It's resulted in some really bad offense and a bunch of turnovers here of late. 

Clippers are 17-7 ATS last 24 as a favorite. Jazz are 15-28 Last 43 as a road dog of 6 or less. Utah is also 2-6 ATS last 8 off a win and 1-4 ATS last 5 on the road vs a team that's won more than 60% of their home games. Take Los Angeles! 

4* NBA Western Conf GAME OF THE WEEK on Nuggets +

The betting public will be all over Golden State here, as the Warriors have started to play well and will be out for revenge from an earlier loss at Denver. I just don't see that being the case. Like it or not the Nuggets aren't going anywhere this season. 

For all the star power that Golden State has, they are still not the same team on the road as they are at home and Denver comes in with a 18-3 record on their home floor and are riding a 12-game winning streak at the Pepsi Center. 

Nuggets have covered 17 of their last 22 at home against teams from the Pacific Division and are 12-1 ATS at home this season when coming off a win. Warriors are just 5-16 ATS in their last 21 vs a team from the Western Conference and 3-7 ATS last 10 on the road against a team that's won more than 60% of their home games. Take Denver! 

3* NBA Vegas Oddsmakers ERROR  on Nets +

Forget the points, go for the bigger payday with Brooklyn as a home dog against the Celtics. The Nets have been playing like a legit playoff contender in the east, as they enter having gone 13-5 over their last 18. The big knock on Brooklyn is how they have struggled with some of the top teams. 

They just lost by 17 last time out at Toronto and recently were embarrassed in a 116-95 defeat at Boston. That recent meeting with the Celtics is a big reason why I like the Nets here, as they will be out for some big time revenge and have been playing extremely well on their home floor. 

I would expect a big effort from Boston having lost their last two, but I just don't like how this team is playing at the moment. They shot the ball poorly in each of their last two games, road losses at Miami and Orland and are not the same defensive team on the road. Take Brooklyn! 

4* NBA Vegas ATS HEAVY HITTER on Rockets -

Houston is playing too well right now to pass up playing them as a short road favorite against the Magic. Orlando comes in off an upset win at home over the Celtics on Saturday. While that win looks great, I'm expecting a big letdown playing on no rest. Magic had lost 4 straight, all by double-digits, leading up to that game. Orlando is also 7-20 ATS last 27 at home off an upset win as a dog. 

Adding to this is a great system in play on the Rockets. Road favorites of a blowout win by at least 20 points in a game involving two teams that are scoring 102+ points/game are 70-38 (64.8%) ATS her the last 5 seasons. Take Houston! 

3* NBA Late Night BAILOUT BLOWOUT on Kings -

Easy play here for me on the Kings as a small home favorite against the Hornets. Sacramento got back on the winning track with a 112-102 win at home against the Pistons on Thursday and have really been playing solid basketball of late. While they are just 2-5 in their last 7, they have covered 3 of 4 and all 5 losses have come by 7 or less. 

Sacramento should have no problem here taking down a struggling Charlotte team that is coming off an ugly 127-96 loss at Portland last night and now faced with the difficult task of playing the 2nd leg of a back-to-back on the road. On top of that, this is their 5th straight on the road, so they have to be running on fumes. 

Thinking Charlotte is primed for a bounce back after the blowout loss last night? Hornets are 0-8 ATS last 2 seasons off a loss by 20 or more. They are also 1-6 ATS last 7 on the road and 0-6 ATS last 6 on the road vs a team with a winning home record. Take Sacramento! 

4* NBA Late Night Total NO-BRAINER on Bulls UNDER

The books have missed the mark here with the total in this one. People just see the Warriors and automatically assume it's going to be a high-scoring game. I don't think we see an offensive explosion in this one. The Warriors are so much better than Chicago that it's going to be extremely hard for Golden State to show up for this one. 

On the flip side of this, the Bulls are a young team that is going to play their hearts out to see how they stack up against the defending champs. Don't be fooled by the 149-124 Warriors win at Chicago earlier this season. The Bulls were missing a ton of players to injury and if anything that result will make them focus that much more on the defensive side of the ball. 

UNDER is 12-3-1 in the Warriors last 16 home games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games and 11-3 in the Bulls last 14 road games vs a team with a winning home record. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Non-Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Cavs/Rockets OVER

The books have completely missed the mark here with the total. Houston and Cleveland should have no problem eclipsing 220 points and there's a potential for them to fly by the number. Houston can light up the scoreboard, especially when James Harden has it going like he does now. 

Last 3 games the Cavs have allowed 140 at New Orleans, 123 to the Pacers and 133 to the Pelicans at home. Each of their last 7 opponents have eclipsed 110 points. I think Houston could easily top 130 and we should see the Cavs score at least 100. Rockets haven't allowed fewer than 100 since the middle of December and are just not the same defensive team without Chris Paul in the lineup. 

OVER is 8-2 in the Rockets last 10 vs a team from the Eastern Conference and 5-1 in their last 6 at home vs a bad team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE on Clippers +

This is too good a price to pass up on the Clippers. Denver comes in with the best record in the West and are 16-3 at home. Both of which have them way overvalued right now. That's evident by the fact that the Nuggets are a mere 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games. 

The Clippers won by 21 at home in a recent meeting between these two teams in late December and enter this one having won 3 straight. LA's offense has been one of the best in the league and are in prime form right now, as they are averaging 115.8 ppg and shooting 47% from the field over their last 5 games.

Denver is only giving up 105.5 ppg on the season, but are allowing 111.0 ppg in their last 5. I just don't see the Nuggets pulling away and wouldn't be shocked if the Clippers won this game outright. Take Los Angeles! 

4* NBA Non-Conf GAME OF THE WEEK on Bulls +

Love the value here with Chicago as a near double-digit road dog against the Blazers. The Bulls come in having lost 4 straight, the most recent being a non-cover in a 7-point loss at home to the Nets. However, they are a strong 5-3 ATS in their last 8 games and haven't dropped back-to-back games against the spread since the middle of December. 

Chicago is also coming in well-rested, as they have had the last 2 days off and will be playing only their 4th game in 10 days. Portland on the other hand is playing their 4th game in the last 6 days and it would be really easy for the Blazers to not take this Bulls team seriously. Chicago's got some nice young pieces and while they likely won't be able to win, I like them to keep it closer than expected. 

Blazers are just 2-5 ATS last 7 at home and 1-5 ATS last 6 off a SU win. Bulls are 4-1 ATS last 5 road games vs a team with a winning home record. Take Chicago! 

3* NBA Public ATS ANNIHILATOR on Heat -

The books are begging the public to play the Nuggets here at basically a pick'em at Miami, which makes this an easy play for me on the Heat. A closer look and you can see why Miami is favored. 

While the Heat come in off an ugly 106-82 loss at Atlanta, that was more of them just not showing up to play against an inferior team. It happens. I'm more focused on the fact that Miami is 8-3 in their last 11 games. 

The other key here is this is just a really tough spot for the Nuggets. Denver had to play last night in Houston, which they lost 125-113. Simply playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back would be tough, but this is also the Nuggets 5th game since the calendar turned to 2019. It's also worth pointing out Denver hasn't played consecutive games in the same spot since a 4-game homestand back in early December. 

Nuggets are also 1-6 ATS last 7 road games  and 3-8 ATS last 11 off a SU loss. Miami is 5-1 ATS last 6 off a loss, 8-2 ATS last 10 vs a team from the West and 5-1 in their last 6 at home vs a team with a winning road record. Take Miami! 

3* NBA Late Night BAILOUT BLOWOUT on Kings -

Big time value here with Sacramento laying a short number at home against the Magic. Kings come in having lost 4 straight, including 3 in a row at home, but those 3 home losses came against the Warriors, Nuggets and Blazers. Sacramento could have easily won all 3, as all 5 defeats were by 4-points or less. 

Despite not winning the game, I think the Kings gained a lot of confidence from their strong showing last time out against Golden State. I look for a big effort here to get back in the win column and the Magic come in having lost 7 of their last 10 and are playing in the second game of a back-to-back road set. Take Sacramento! 

3* NBA Public ATS ANNIHILATOR on Bulls +

I think Chicago is one of the more underrated teams in the NBA right now, as they are just now getting healthy and have some nice young talent on the roster. They basically played the first third of the season without 3 of their best players in Markkanen, Dunn and Portis. With Portis listed probable, that's a huge boost to the bench. 

Not only do I like this spot for Chicago to play well, but I think this is a bit of a trap game for Brooklyn. The Nets have been playing well and already beat the Bulls in Chicago earlier this season. With a game Boston tomorrow night looming, really easy for Brooklyn to come out flat, especially on the road. Take Chicago! 

3* NBA Late Night BAILOUT BLOWOUT on Blazers +

The Rockets have been on quite a run and the public will be inclined to fade Portland in the second game of a back-to-back. However, I think it's Houston that will have the more difficult time showing up for this game. 

Last time out the Rockets rallied from 20 down to stun the Warriors 135-134 in overtime during a nationally televised game on TNT. Six different players payed at least 30 minutes for Houston, including 40+ from Harden, Rivers and Capela. Even with a day off Friday, I just don't see the Rockets having the energy needed to win at a difficult place like Portland, especially with the Blazers highly motivated for a win off an upset loss on their home floor. Take Portland! 

4* NBA Pacific Div GAME OF THE WEEK on Clippers -

This is the perfect spot to jump on the Clippers. Los Angeles comes in having lost two straight and are simply undervalued here as a short road favorite to the Suns. I expect a big effort here from the Clippers and while Phoenix has been playing better, they are no match for a motivated LA side. 

Suns simply don't have a home court edge. Phoenix is 5-15 at home this season. They have also failed to cover 11 of their last 12 home games on a Friday night and are a mere 3-13 ATS in their last 16 with a total north of 230. Clippers are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 division games and 14-4 in their last 18 played on Friday. Take Los Angeles! 

3* NBA Money Line MASSACRE  on Mavs +

The books are begging for you to take the Hornets here as a small home favorite. Dallas is just 2-16 SU in 18 road games and come in having lost 8 of their last 10 overall. This is the definition of a trap set by the books and I'll gladly play the money line on the Mavericks in this spot. 

If anything, Dallas is due for a win on the road and I think we get their very best here, as they know wins at Boston and Philadelphia are unlikely to close out their road trip. Charlotte hasn't been playing great of late and figure to take a big step back after losing starting center Cody Zeller to a broken hand in their last game. They also figure to be without Jeremy Lamb, who suffered a hamstring injury in the same game. 

Last time out the Mavs were embarrassed at OKC and that's a positive for us in this matchup, as Dallas is 32-12 under Rick Carlisle off a road loss by 20 or more points. Mavs have also covered 5 of their last 6 vs a team from the Eastern Conference. Take Dallas! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Sixers UNDER

There's simply too much value to pass up on here with the UNDER. I get the Clippers have been a part of a lot of high-scoring games of late, but this will be their 3rd game in 4 days and we should get a max effort here defensively from the 76ers after their embarrassing 34-point loss to the Blazers, where they gave up 129 points and allowed Portland to shoot 59% from the field. 

UNDER is 64-42 in the 76ers last 106 games after they allow 120 or more points and an amazing 15-4 in their last 19 road games after a blowout loss by 30 or more points. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Grizzlies UNDER

If you have watched Memphis play at all, you know that they are an ideal team to be involved in a low-scoring game. While everyone else is trying to speed it up and stretch the floor, the Grizzlies are grinding out possessions and trying to win games with their defense. 

It  hasn't worked great for them of late, as they are just 3-8 in their last 11, but they have won 2 of their last 3 and we can bank on a big effort here, as Memphis just lost at home to Houston on 12/15. 

The other key here is that the Rockets will have to play this one without Eric Gordon and they are already without Chris Paul. Gordon averages 15.7 ppg. That means the only healthy double-digit score for Houston besides James Harden is big man Clint Capela. As good as Harden is, he can't do it all and Memphis is going to make him work. 

All this should add up to a very low-scoring game. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Pistons UNDER

This is an ideal matchup for a low-scoring grind it out type of game. Both the Magic and Pistons rank in the bottom 5 in the league in offensive efficiency. While both have struggled to score, they have played hard defensively and both are in the top half of the league in defensive efficiency. Another key here is pace and while the Pistons are 14th in pace, Orlando is 26th. 

UNDER is 10-4-1 in the Pistons last 15 games and 8-4 in Orlando's last 12. UNDER is also 20-7 in the Magic's last 27 games vs a team from the Eastern Conference and 5-0 in Detroit's last 5 vs the Southeast Division. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Eastern Conf GAME OF THE WEEK on Hornets -

This is an easy play for me on Charlotte. These two teams just played against each other on Wednesday at Brooklyn, which the Nets won 134-132. It was Brooklyn's 9th win in their last 10 games. 

As tempting as it might be to take the points with the Nets, the team that lost the first meeting in these home-and-home matchups almost always has the edge in the second meeting. Not to mention the Hornets are a completely different team at home, where they are 12-7, compared to 4-10 on the road. Nets are also just 1-4 ATS last 5 on the road against a team with a winning home record. Take Charlotte! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Knicks +

New York is showing exceptional value here in this quick rematch from Christmas Day. The public perception will be that the Bucks just won by 14 at New York two days ago, so why wouldn't they win by more than that at home. It just doesn't work like that in the NBA. 

If anything, I think that blowout win by Milwaukee will make it hard for them to get up for this game, as they have to feel like they just need to show up to get a win. Not to mention the value we are getting at this price, simply needing the Knicks to lose by 14 or less. 

Road underdogs who are a bad team (25% to 40% win percentage) have hit 58% of the time the last 5 seasons when revenging a loss. Knicks are also 22-11 ATS last 33 when revenging a home loss. Take New York! 

3* NBA Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE on Hawks +

This is way too many points for the Pacers to be laying on the road against a Hawks team that is playing arguably it's best basketball of the season right now. 

Atlanta has won 3 straight, including back-to-back wins on the road over New York and Detroit. Confidence can do wonders for a young team like the Hawks and they have to be itching to get back on the court and take on a good Pacers team. 

Indiana has been playing well of late, but I just have to wonder how motivated the Pacers are going to be in their first game back, the day after Christmas, against a bad team like the Hawks. 

Note that Indiana was a 11.5-point home favorite against these Hawks back on Nov. 17th. That line suggest that had the two played in Atlanta on that day the line would have been closer to 5. 

Hawks are 7-3 ATS last 10 at home vs a team with a winning road record and the Pacers are 1-5 ATS last 6 games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games. Take Atlanta! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Heat +

The books are begging for you to lay the short number here with Toronto, but the sharp money is on the red-hot Heat. A lot of people probably aren't aware of just how well Miami has been playing. They have won 5 straight and 9 of their last 12 overall. 

This team is playing with a ton of confidence and to them this is going to be one of those "measuring stick" games, where they see how they stack up against the perceived best team in the Eastern Conference right now. I just don't think the game means that much to Toronto, who is not only a little upset they weren't playing on Christmas Day, but also got a lot of guys banged up. 

Adding to this is a great system in play. Underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points in the month of December are an amazing 43-18 (71%) ATS over the last 5 seasons when they come in having played 4 or fewer games in 10 days. 

5* NBA Eastern Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Sixers/Celtics UNDER

I love the UNDER here in this division clash between the 76ers and Celtics. There's a ton of talent on both teams and these are two teams that are believed to have a legit shot at winning the Eastern Conference. I think both are going to be out to make a statement here and we are going to get max effort from both sides on the defensive side of the ball. 

These two played back in October and the Celtics won 105-87 for a combined total of just 193 points. That game had a total of 211.5. I get the 76ers have added Jimmy Butler since that game, but he's an elite defender and we got plenty of wiggle room here with this total north of 220. 

The average score in the 76ers last 17 division road games is 214.5. The average score in the Celtics last 15 division home games is 207.1. Take the UNDER! 

4* Bucks/Knicks Side Winner on Knicks +

I love the value here with the Knicks as a double-digit dog and this game staying well UNDER the mark on the total. 

New York is way undervalued here because of the fact that they have lost 4 straight and are just 1-9 in their last 10. They have been competitive in a lot of these losses and we know we are going to get a max effort here at home against a team like the Bucks. 

These two teams have already played twice this year and both times the Knicks have kept it within single-digits. In fact, they won outright earlier this month at home as a 8-point dog. 

That last meeting was very high-scoring, which is why we are seeing such a high total here. There's just a different defensive intensity that teams play with on Christmas Day. I also think this early start time will have both offenses struggling to get going. Take New York & UNDER! 

3* Bucks/Knicks NBA Total Winner on Knicks UNDER

I love the value here with the Knicks as a double-digit dog and this game staying well UNDER the mark on the total. 

New York is way undervalued here because of the fact that they have lost 4 straight and are just 1-9 in their last 10. They have been competitive in a lot of these losses and we know we are going to get a max effort here at home against a team like the Bucks. 

These two teams have already played twice this year and both times the Knicks have kept it within single-digits. In fact, they won outright earlier this month at home as a 8-point dog. 

That last meeting was very high-scoring, which is why we are seeing such a high total here. There's just a different defensive intensity that teams play with on Christmas Day. I also think this early start time will have both offenses struggling to get going. Take New York & UNDER!

3* NBA Underdog PLAY OF THE DAY on Clippers +

I like the value here with the Clippers as a double-digit dog against the defending champs. This game simply means a lot more to LA than it does Golden State. There's only a few games during the regular-season that will get the juices flowing for the Warriors. 

One of those is Christmas Day, when they host LeBron James and the new-look Lakers. Even though they lost 121-116 to the Clippers in LA back on 11/12, I have a hard time believing Golden State is even the slightest bit concerned about the Clippers being the team that dethrones them in the West. 

I actually think there's a decent shot LA wins this game outright, but all we need is for them to keep it within single digits. Clippers are 15-5 ATS lats 20 vs a division opponent and 15-4 ATS last 19 road games after covering 3 of their last 4. Take Los Angeles! 

4* NBA Atlantic Div GAME OF THE WEEK on Sixers -

Philadelphia should have no problem covering the number at home in a win over the Raptors. Toronto is playing in the second game of a back-to-back set and instead of sitting Khawi Leonard against the Cavs and having him play here, he played vs Cleveland and will take tonight off. 

That has to feel like a slap in the face for the 76ers and given some of Toronto's success without Khawi in the lineup, I don't see Philadelphia taking this one lightly at all. The 76ers really need this win, as they are just 4-4 in their last 8 without a real signature win in the process. P

Philadelphia is also out for revenge from two earlier losses to the Raptors this season. Both of those were in Toronto. Note that the 76ers are 15-3 at home compared to 6-9 on the road. Take Philadelphia! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Kings - 

This is too good a price to pass up on Sacramento at home against a Grizzlies team that has lost it's mojo. Memphis was one of the big surprise teams early on, but things have quickly took a turn for the worst. 

The Grizzlies have lost 4 straight and are just 4-10 after starting the year 12-5. They just have a horrible time scoring the basketball. Memphis hasn't eclipsed 100 points in 7 straight games. While they are likely to hit that mark against the Kings given Sacramento's pace of play, I don't see them scoring near enough to have a shot at winning the game. 

Kings didn't play any defense in their 132-113 loss at home to the Thunder on Wednesday, so we should get a better effort on that side of the ball. Sacramento is also 11-3 ATS last 14 off a game where they allowed 125+. They are also 8-3 ATS last 11 home games vs a team with a losing road record. Take Sacramento!  

5* NBA Western Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Jazz +

The books are absolutely begging the public to take the Warriors here as a small road favorite and they are doing exactly that (close to 70% action on Golden State). They did the same thing when these two met back in October and the Jazz covered in a painful 124-123 loss as 2.5-point dog. 

There's no doubt that Utah has been itching for this rematch after nearly knocking off the defending champs. We are going to get their best effort here. It's hard for Golden State to get up for regular-season games and I have to think they are a bit annoyed that they have this 1-game road trip to Utah before returning home for Christmas (next road game is 12/29). 

Not to mention the Warriors aren't just struggling to cover on the road, they are a mere 8-7 straight up away from Oracle Arena. Golden State is also just 2-8 ATS last 10 vs a team from the Western Conference. Take Utah! 

5* NBA Southeast PLAY OF THE MONTH on Hawks +

This is a great spot to jump on Atlanta as a home dog against the Wizards. Washington has been one of the most overvalued teams this season, especially on the road. The Wizards are 4-12 SU and 4-12 ATS in their 16 road games. 

I get the Hawks aren't a great team, but no way should Washington be a road favorite. The Wizards come in off what looks like an impressive 128-110 win over the Lakers, but they got a LA team that didn't show up to play on the second night of a back-to-back road set. Prior to that win they had lost 4 straight, including a 15-point loss on the road to the Cavs. 

Wizards are 0-9 ATS last 9 road games after allowing 105 or more points in 3 straight games and 0-7 ATS in their last 7 road games after a game with a combined score of 235 or more. Take Atlanta! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Bucks -

Milwaukee should have no problem covering this short number on the road against the Pistons. Detroit comes in off a upset win at home over the Celtics, but I'm just not buying it as a sign of things to come. Pistons simply had a good night shooting, as they connected on 49% of their attempts. 

I don't see the offense being able to match that hot shooting here against a good Milwaukee defense. Bucks have held 4 of their last 6 opponents under 42% from the field and been outstanding this season on that side of the ball against division opponents. Milwaukee is 6-1 in division games and have held their division rivals to just 102.4 ppg and 41.9% shooting. 

Pistons are 0-4 ATS last 4 vs a team that's won more than 60% of their games and a mere 4-15 ATS last 19 vs strong rebounding teams, who are outrebounding opponents by 3 or more/game. Take Milwaukee! 

4* NBA Situational NO-BRAINER on Mavs -

This is a great price to back the Mavs at home. Sacramento is getting a lot of love for their recent game agains the Warriors, which they went toe-to-toe with the defending champs in a 130-125 loss at home.

They blew that game. They were up 10 with a little over 3 minutes to play. That's a loss that can linger for days and I just think we see a flat Kings team in this one. Dallas is also a team you don't want to be betting against right now. The Mavs have covered 11 of their last 16. They are also an amazing 13-2 SU and 12-3 ATS on their home floor this season. 

There's also going to be a different kind of buzz at American Airlines Center, as Dirk Nowitizki will be taking the court for the first time at home this season. Take Dallas! 

4* NBA Cavs/Bucks CENTRAL PLAY OF THE WEEK on Cavs +

There's no denying the Cavs are one of the worst teams in the NBA, but they do come out and play hard on a regular basis. I think that effort will be more than enough for Cleveland to keep this within double-digits at home against the Bucks. 

Milwaukee has cooled off some from their amazing start, as they are just 5-5 in their last 10 games. They lost 113-97 as a 2-point favorite last time out at Indiana and are just 5-6 on the road on the season. 

Bucks are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 road games and are just 20-48 ATS last 68 as a favorite of 10 or more. Cavs are 4-0 ATS last 4 vs a team from the east and the home team is 3-0-1 last 4 in the series. Take Cleveland! 

3* NBA Clippers/Spurs PLAY OF THE DAY on Clippers +

The betting public is all over San Antonio and to no surprise. The Spurs have won 4 straight and people are going to be quick to look for reasons to back this team. It's the exact opposite for the Clippers. They have been one of the best teams in the West from the start, but no one believes in them and re definitely not backing them here. LA has failed to cover 4 in a row and just lost by 24 at home to the Raptors. 

That loss to Toronto doesn't look nearly as bad after what the Raptors did to the Warriors in Golden State last night. I just think the Clippers are the more talented team and let's not overlook that prior t being a 13-point favorite against the Suns, the Spurs were a 4-point home dog to the Jazz and 1-point home dog to the Lakers. The Clippers are better than both of those teams and simply should not be a dog here. Take Los Angeles! 

4* NBA Atlantic GAME OF THE WEEK on Nets +

I like the value here with Brooklyn as a big road dog against the the 76ers. Philadelphia has gone an impressive 10-2 in their last 12 games and are off a 14-point win at home against the Pistons as a 11.5-point favorite. It has the 76ers way overvalued here at home against a Nets team that has recently turned a corner. 

Brooklyn upset Toronto at home 106-105 as a 8.5-point dog and the very next night went on the road and beat the Knicks 112-104 as a 2-point dog. Even with those back-to-back wins, the Nets are still a team that don't command a lot of respect. I just think it's hard for teams like the 76ers to emotionally get up for opponents like this and that will allow Brooklyn to hang around and keep this within the number. 

Nets are well rested here, as they haven't played since Saturday and that's worth noting, as they are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games when playing on 3 or more days of rest. Nets are also a strong 31-18 ATS as a road dog the last 2 seasons and 14-4 ATS in their last 18 road games after scoring at least 105 points in 3 straight games. Take Brooklyn! 

3* Late Info Insider on Clippers +

No Analysis on late releases

5* NBA Non-Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Magic +

I really like this spot for Orlando to cover the spread and possible win the game outright at Dallas on Monday. This is a big letdown spot for the Mavs, who are coming off a thrilling 107-104 win at home over the Rockets. 

As for the Magic, we can bank on a big effort here after back-to-back home losses to the Nuggets and Pacers. Orland has been a solid road team. They are 6-6 away from home and most importantly, 9-2 ATS on the highway. Magic have also covered 7 straight away from home when facing a team that is allowing 106+ points/game. 

Another thing is Orlando is fresh, as they have played just once in the last 4 days. Playing into that is a great system in favor of a Magic cover. Underdogs of 3.5 to 9 points who are playing just their 4th or less game in the last 10 days are 41-15 (73%) ATS in the month of December over the last 5 seasons. Take Orlando! 

3* NBA Underdog PLAY OF THE DAY on Cavs +

This is a great price to back Cleveland, as this is a really tough spot for the Bucks. Milwaukee is coming off a huge road win on Sunday at Toronto and with the quick turnaround they aren't even going to have a shoot-around before the game.

This is just one of those games where the Bucks are going to have a hard time showing up with a ton of intensity, as they have to feel like they can beat the Cavs at home in their sleep. It's a spot where they have failed to cover quite often, as Milwaukee is 2-11 ATS in their last 13 home games vs terrible teams that are getting outscored by 6 or more points/game. 

Bucks are also a mere 2-11 ATS in their last 13 as a favorite of 10 or more points and 3-12 ATS last 15 off an upset win as an underdog. Take Cleveland! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Lakers OVER

These two teams should have no problem eclipsing the total set here by the books. I get the low number here with Memphis and their tendency for lower-scoring games, but I just don't think these two will be bringing the defensive intensity in this one. 

Both teams are on no rest, as the Lakers played at San Antonio last night in a shootout (lost 133-120) and the Grizzlies were in a dog fight at New Orleans (won 107-103). I think both teams easily reach the 100-point mark in this one and I wouldn't be shocked if this thing ended up a closer to 225. 

OVER is 6-1-1 in the last 8 meetings between these two teams, including 3-1-1 in the last 5 games played at Memphis. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Cavs +

Kings are getting way too much respect here as a road favorite. As bad as Cleveland is, Sacramento should not be laying points away from home. I know the Kings just covered as 5.5-point road favorites in a 122-105 win at Phoenix, but they are just 3-14 ATS in their last 17 off a win by 10 or more points. 

Last time out the Cavs gave up 129 in a 14-point loss at home to the Warriors and that's worth noting as Cleveland is 8-2 ATS in their last 10 after giving up 125 or more points. Cavs had covered each of their previous two games before coming up short as 11-point dogs to Golden State and I'm confident they bounce back here with a win at home. Take Cleveland! 

3* NBA Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR on Cavs +

The Cavs snapped a 4-game losing streak with a 99-97 win at Brooklyn as a 6-point dog and I really like their chances of keeping this within the number against the Warriors. Cleveland is definitely one of the worst teams in the league, but that often has them getting a few too many points from the books, as no one wants to be on this team. Cavs have covered each of their last 2 and 5 of their last 8. 

Warriors come in at 16-9, but they just don't seem to have that killer instinct in the regular-season any more. They actually have a losing record on the road at 5-7 and are just 4-8 ATS in those 12 road games. They did win and cover last time out against the Hawks, but are just 1-5 ATS off a SU win and a mere 12-25-1 ATS last 38 off a SU win by more than 10 points. Take Cleveland! 

3* NBA Late Night Bailout BLOWOUT on Jazz -

I got no problem laying this kind of number with Utah at home against the Spurs. San Antonio is way down this year and it's just unlikely to get a lot better. Spurs are 11-12 and own a miserable 4-8 record on the road, where they are getting outscored by nearly 6 ppg. 

San Antonio does come in off a nice win at home against the Blazers, but they shot a ridiculous 60% from the field. That hot shooting covered up another bad defensive night, as the Spurs let Portland shoot 50% from the field. That's 3 straight opponents where San Antonio has allowed 50% or better shooting and they haven't held a team under 46.5% in their last 8 games. 

Jazz have the talent to be one of the top defensive teams in the league and last time out they held the Heat to just 39.6%. Their ability to get stops should allow them to pull away and win this one by double-digits. Take Utah! 

4* NBA East Conf GAME OF THE WEEK on Wizards -

Washington should have no problem going into New York and leaving with a victory and that's all we need with this line at basically a pick'em. The Wizards come into this one off one of their best performances of the season in a 102-88 win against the Nets. 

The Wizards shot 52% from the field, while holding Brooklyn to just 37% shooting. Washington's dynamic backcourt of Wall and Beal combined for 52 points and Morris came off the bench with 20. When Wall and Beal are both clicking, this is a very difficult team to beat and with the Knicks giving up 114.6 ppg and 47.4% shooting on the season, I like their chances of staying hot. 

There's also a strong system in play favoring a fade of the Knicks. Teams who are allowing 103+ points/game and off a close win by 3-points or less are just 51-100 ATS since 1996 when the line is +3 to -3. That's a 66% system in favor of the Wizards. Take Washington! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Jazz -

Utah should have zero problem here getting a win on the road against the Heat on Sunday. The Jazz are a team that has under-performed early on, but they are starting to turn a corner. They just won by 8 as a 2-point dog at Charlotte on Friday and won by 10 at Brooklyn as a mere 3.5-point favorite on Wednesday. 

I just think this team is starting to play some of their best basketball and Miami is a team that is struggling to find their way. The Heat have only won 5 times since Oct. 29th, but are getting some love here due to the fact that they are fresh off an upset win at home over the Pelicans. 

Miami is just 3-8 ATS last 11 off a SU win and 1-6 ATS last 7 at home. Utah is 24-12 ATS last 36 when coming off back-to-back wins and are a perfect 4-0 ATS last 4 trips to Miami. Take Utah! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Bulls/Rockets OVER

The Bulls and Rockets should have no problem eclipsing the total set here by the books. A big reason for that is both teams don't figure to be exerting a lot of energy on the defensive side, as each team will be playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back set, as well as their 3rd game overall in the last 4 days. 

Houston's offense has really gotten better since the start of the season and they put up 136 last night in San Antonio and are averaging 118.8 ppg over their last 5. Chicago is giving up 113.8 ppg on the road and will have no answer for Harden and company. 

Key here is that while the Bulls offense is limited, the Rockets defense has been slipping of late. Houston has allowed at least 105 in 7 straight games and I just don't see this game being close enough to where they feel they have to lock down defensively. 

OVER is a perfect 7-0 in the Rockets last 7 after scoring 100 or more points, 5-0 in their last 5 vs a team from the Eastern Conference and 4-0 last 4 home games vs a team with a losing road record. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Underdog PLAY OF THE DAY  on Cavs +

The Cavs don't exactly offer much of a threat right now. Kevin Love, Sam Dekker, J.R. Smith, David Nwaba and George Hill are all out. They also just traded Kyle Korver and are coming off a 17 point loss at OKC. 

This might look like an easy spot to jump on the Celtics, who are coming off a nice win at New Orleans as a 2-point dog. I don't think that's a wise move. Boston is dealing with some injuries right now and have a much bigger game on deck at Minnesota tomorrow. Will be really hard for them to give Cleveland their full attention. 

I expect the Cavs to come out and play hard and keep this a lot closer than expected early and stick around for a cover, as Boston will likely right the ship and find a way to win at home. Simply too much value with this double-digit spread to pass up. Take Cleveland! 

5* NBA Central Division GAME OF THE MONTH on Bucks -

I got no problem here laying the big number with Milwaukee at home against the Bulls. The Bucks come into this one off a upset loss at Charlotte as a 4.5-point favorite. Milwaukee hasn't lost back-to-back games all season and are 4-1 ATS off a SU loss. 

The Bulls are really struggling right now. Chicago has lost 3 straight and are a mere 3-12 in their last 15. Until they get some of their key guys back from injury, they are going to struggle to be competitive, especially against the elite teams. These two teams played earlier this month and the Bucks toyed with Chicago in a 123-104 win, as they led 63-45 at the half. 

Big system in play as well. Favorites who have won between 60% to 75% of their games and are off a game where they failed to cover are a dominant 39-15 (72%) ATS over the last 5 seasons when facing a horrible team that's won 25% or less of their games. Take Milwaukee! 

3* NBA Undervalued DOG OF THE DAY  on Knicks +

I'm jump on the red-hot Knicks as a big dog against Detroit. New York comes in having won 3 straight and all 3 have been as a decently priced dog. They won 117-109 at Boston as a 14.5-point dog, 114-109 at home to the Pelicans as a 7.5-point dog and most recently 103-98 at Memphis as a 8-point dog. 

Now we see them as a similarly priced dog here against a Pistons team that I think is a notch below those teams they just beat. Detroit has won 6 of 8 and covered 5 in a row, but that's giving us the value with the Knicks. 

Hosting Atlantic Division teams hasn't been great for the Pistons of late. Detroit is a mere 5-16 in their last 21 home games against the teams from the Atlantic. Look for the Knicks to keep it close and don't be surprised if they win outright. Take New York! 

5* NBA No Limit TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Magic/Warriors UNDER

Books have completely missed the mark here. The Warriors will be without both Steph Curry and Draymond Green. Sure they still have KD and Klay Thompson, but it's just not the same without those two on the court. 

Not to mention we know the Magic are going to give max effort here on the defensive side of the ball, as everyone brings it when they get a shot at Golden State and they have to be thinking about potentially stealing a win with the Warriors short-handed. 

I think Golden State matches that defensive intensity as they have really played well on that side of the ball the last two games and this Orlando offense is limited and haven't shot it great of late. 

Look for a slower than normal pace and for this to fly under the mark set by the books. UNDER is 26-10-1 in Warriors last 37 off a game they didn't cover the spread and 4-1 in Magic's last 5 on the road vs a team that's won more than 60% of their games. Take UNDER! 

4* NBA Vegas ATS Heavy HITTER on Magic +

The Lakers are rolling right now, as they have won 9 of their last 11. However, to no surprise, they haven't exactly been a great bet during this hot streak. In fact, LA is just 5-6 ATS during this stretch. The books are simply inflating their lines to where it's really hard for them to cover. 

That's exactly what I see here. Orlando was responsible for one of those two losses, as they beat LA 130-117 at home back on Nov. 17th. It's been a part of an impressive stretch here for the Magic, as they have gone 6-1-1 ATS last 8. I fully expect Orlando to hang around here and keep this well within the number. 

Note this is also a huge bounce back spot for the Magic, who lost 112-87 at Denver in their last game. Magic are 12-4-1 ATS last 17 off a loss by more than 10 points. Take Orlando! 

4* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Wizards +

I love the value here with Washington as a home dog against the Pelicans. It certainly hasn't been the start to the season the Wizards were expecting, as they sit at 6-12 thru their first 18 games. They have won 4 of their last 7 and I still have a lot of confidence in this team getting back on track. 

The even bigger key here is this being a really tough spot for New Orleans. The Pelicans had to play at New York yesterday and were at Philadelphia on Wednesday, so not only is this a back-to-back road set, but it's their 3rd game away from home in the last 4 days, which I think is only worse given it's come right around Thanksgiving. I think we saw some of the fatigue show in yesterday's loss to the Knicks as a 7.5-point favorite. 

Pelicans are also just 2-6 ATS last 8 road games and 0-7 ATS in their last 7 following a SU loss. Take Washington! 

3* NBA Big Money PLAY OF THE DAY  on Celtics -

This just feels like the perfect spot and opponent for Boston to get right against. The Celtics come in having lost 3 straight and are fresh off an ugly 117-109 loss at home to the Knicks as a 14.5-point favorite. Boston is now sitting at 9-9 overall and I just think we get a big time effort here with  the possibility of going under .500. 

The Hawks haven't won a game since they squeaked out a win over the Heat at home back on Nov. 3. They just lost at home to the Raptors by 16 as a similarly priced 8-point dog. Keep in mind Toronto was kind of in the same spot as Boston when they visited Atlanta, as the Raptors had hit a bit of a lull following their hot start. 

Celtics have gone an impressive 10-1 ATS in their last 11 when failing to cover 4 or 5 of their last 6 games. Take Boston! 

5* NBA Heavy Hitter GAME OF THE MONTH on Bucks -

The Bucks should have no problem here winning and covering the number. Milwaukee's got away with some sloppy starts here of late, but I don't think they will be sleep-walking through the start of this one. That's because the Bucks will be out for revenge from an ugly 15-point loss at Portland earlier this month. 

Milwaukee is 8-1 SU and 7-2 ATS at home, so the books have clearly not given this team enough respect when they take the floor at the Fiserv Forum. Portland is a good team and in normal circumstances might put up a decent fight, but they have to be running on fumes. Blazers are playing their 5th straight game on the road. It's also their 3rd game in the last 4 nights and they just played last night in New York. Not to mention their next game is against the Warriors on Friday, so hard to not look ahead to that one just a little bit. Take Milwaukee! 

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

Total is too high here for this matchup. Brooklyn's not the same offensive team after losing their leading scorer in Caris LeVert and Miami's offense doesn't run the same without starting point guard Goran Dragic, who is out indefinitely with a knee injury. 

Heat have failed to score 100 points in each of their last 2, including a mere 97 last time out at home to the Lakers, who aren't exactly a top notch defensive team. Add in the familiarity with these two teams having just played each other a week ago, I look for both offenses to struggle to get going. In large part because I think Miami's defense will show up in a big way here, but the offense will continue to struggle to score without Dragic. 

UNDER 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in this series. It's also 7-2 in Miami's last 9 vs a team with a losing record and 8-2 in the Nets last 10 vs a team with a losing record. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Suns +

I really like the value here with Phoenix as a double-digit dog against the 76ers. I just think Philadelphia is bit overvalued right now with the recent trade of Jimmy Butler and them having won and covered their last two. 

The thing is, they could very easily be 0-3 with Butler. They lost his debut at Orlando, beat Utah at home by just 6 points and the Jazz shot 4 of 22 (18.2%) from deep and 56.8% from the free throw line. Then last time out they overcame a 60-point night from Kemba Walker in a 122-119 overtime win at Charlotte. 

I think that game against the Hornets really took a lot out of this team (all 5 starters played 30+ mins) and this is not as deep a team after the trade. With how bad the Suns have been, I just feel this is one of those games that the 76ers go through the motions and have to scratch out a win late. Take Phoenix! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Magic OVER

These two teams will have no problem going over the total here, as both sides don't play much defense. New York comes in allowing 116.3 ppg on the road, where opponents are shooting 48% from the field and 37.4% from deep. It's very similar in Orlando, where the Magic are giving up 111 ppg at home, while letting opponents shoot 47.5% and 39% from deep. 

Last game for the Magic they combined for 147 at home against the Lakers. Each of New York's last two have seen 130+. Over is also 10-3 in Orlando's last 13 off a win by double-digits and 21-9 in the Knicks last 30 when they enter a contest having failed to cover 4 of 5 of their last 6. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Nets/Clippers UNDER

Books have completely missed the mark here with the total for Saturday's NBA action between the Clippers and Nets. LAC is coming off a big 3-game home stand where they went 3-0 with wins over the Bucks, Warriors and Spurs. Now they travel across the country for game against the Nets, who are without Caris LeVert and might be missing Hollis-Jefferson. 

UNDER has cashed 5 of the last 6 times that the Clippers have made the trip to Brooklyn. UNDER is also 25-12 in Brooklyn's last 37 as a home dog of 6 points or less and 10-1 in their last 11 at home off an upset win as a dog. Take the UNDER! 

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Bulls/Celtics UNDER

The Bulls have been an UNDER machine with the struggles they are having offensively combined with the effort they are giving on the defensive side of the ball. UNDER is 3-0 in Chicago's last 3, 6-1 in their last 7 and 9-3 in their last 12. 

Considering Boston comes in having lost 4 of 5 over a 5-game road trip with the only win against the Suns, I have to believe they give a big effort defensively to make sure they get back on track. As for the offense, they haven't been shooting well of late. They scored just 94 and shot 38.7% from the field last time out against the Blazers. Bulls have held 6 of their last 7 to 107 or less and if they can simply do that, this won't come close to the number set here. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Rockets UNDER

I don't see this one coming close to the total set by the books. It's hard to explain how the Rockets went from such an offensive juggernaut to one that is headed into the middle of November ranked 28th in the NBA at 102.7 ppg. They put up 115 at home last time out against the Pacers, but had gone 4 straight games prior to that where they failed to hit 100 (scored fewer than 90 twice). 

The Nuggets are coming off a high-scoring game against Milwaukee at home, where they lost 121-114. That's now 3 straight losses for Denver after their 9-1 start. I don't think their early success was a fluke and this should be a max effort spot defensively for the Nuggets to snap their skid. 

While the offense has been a disaster for Houston the defense has been really good. The Rockets are allowing just 95.8 ppg over their last 5. They got no choice but to keep playing hard on that side of the ball as they try to dig themselves out of their poor start. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Western Conf TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Spurs/Kings OVER

Books have missed the mark here with the total in tonight's NBA matchup between the Spurs and Kings. I just think this is a big overreaction to what we have seen of late from both teams. San Antonio lost 88-95 at Miami and then won 96-89 at home against the Rockets in their last two. Both of those extremely low scoring. Same thing with Sacramento's last game, as they combined for just 187 in a 101-86 loss at home to the Lakers. 

I  look for both teams to get back on track offensively. Kings simply had a bad night at the office against LA. Sacramento has been one of the top offenses in the league early on. They are scoring 115.3 ppg and rank in the top half of the league in both effective field goal percentage and offensive efficiency. 

While the offense has been great, they are giving up 116.8 ppg and the Spurs come in averaging 114.7 ppg on the road. San Antonio is only giving up 107.9 ppg on the season, but are allowing 112.0 ppg away from home. Take the OVER! 

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

There's just too much value here on the UNDER to pass up with this ridiculously high total. I know both of these teams are scoring at a decent clip and have had their struggles defensively, but I just don't see the pace being where it needs to be to eclipse this number. 

Lakers will be in the second game of a back-to-back set, as they played at Sacramento last night. Hawks had yesterday off, but this is their first game out west and will be their 4th game in the last 6 days.

LA won 101-86 over the Kings last night, holding a red-hot Sacramento offense to just 34.8% shooting. I think they are going to be a lot stronger defensively now that they got Tyson Chandler. UNDER is 4-0-1 in Laker's last 5 off a win and 3-0-1 in their last 4 at home. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Knicks/Raptors UNDER

I think we could see a bit of a sluggish start here for Toronto. You have an earlier start time than normal with the 3:05 EST tip. You also have the Raptors having not played since Wednesday when they concluded a 4 game road trip in Sacramento. 

I also think with some fresh legs we could see Toronto get after it a little more defensively with this being a division game and the Knicks aren't exactly an offensive juggernaut. New York has scored 108 or less in 5 of their last 6 and average just 105 ppg on the road. 

UNDER is 6-2 in Toronto's last 8 vs a team with a losing record, as well as 7-3-1 in the Knicks last 11 road games against a team that's won more than 60% of their home games. UNDER is also 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these two teams in Toronto. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Non-Conference PLAY OF THE MONTH on Jazz -

This is an easy play on Utah as a small home favorite against the Celtics. The Jazz really need to get on track after losing 4 of their last 5. They were able to stop the bleeding and their 4-game skid with a 15 point win over the Mavs last time out. I expect that strong play to carry over to this one. 

We know we are going to get a big effort here from Utah, as this will be the first time that long-term Jazz star Gordon Hayward returns to Utah in an opposing team's uniform. On top of that, the Jazz are catching Boston at the perfect time. The Celtics are in the midst of a 5-game road trip and playing on zero rest after rallying in the 2nd half to win in OT at Phoenix last night. Boston looked like they were already running on fumes, as they scored just 35 in the 1st half against the Suns. 

They simply aren't going to have the energy/effort to keep this game competitive. We also now know Kyrie Irving won't play and I could see some other guys minutes restricted, as this game just doesn't mean much in the grand scheme of things for the Celtics. Take Utah! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Bucks

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

5* NBA TNT Thursday GAME OF THE MONTH on Bucks/Warriors UNDER

This is going to be a heavily bet game. Not just because we have a potential NBA Finals preview with the Warriors and Bucks, but this is also the last NBA game on the board and it's nationally televised on TNT. Books know the public is going to be on the OVER in this one, as they love backing the OVER with Golden State and the Bucks come in averaging 120 ppg. 

I just think it's resulted in ton of value here on the UNDER. People focus so much on the offense side of the ball with these two teams, they don't give their defenses enough respect. Bucks are No. 2 in the NBA in defensive efficiency and the Warriors are 13th. Regardless of where Golden State is ranked, I think we all know that they are elite defensively when they want to be. Most nights they don't need to be. I think in this spot against the "Greek Freak" they will be ready to go. 

UNDER is 7-1 in Golden State's last 8 games vs a team that's won more than 60% of their games. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Situational ATS NO-BRAINER on Suns +

Most are going to just assume Boston will come out pissed after losing two straight and easily cover this spread against a Suns team that just lost at home to the Nets by 22 points as a 2-point dog. I just don't think it's going to play out like that. 

As good as the Celtics are, a lot of teams struggle with these long road trips, especially when they are going clear across the country like Boston has. I just think they could struggle to bring the energy here against a bad Suns team and two much bigger games on deck at Utah and Portland. 

This is also an ideal bounce back spot for Phoenix. Anytime a team gets embarrassed like the Suns did in their last game, they typically bring a little extra next time out. That should be enough for them to hang around and keep this within the number. Take Phoenix! 

3* NBA Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE on Rockets -

Houston has now won 3 straight since their shocking 1-5 start to the season, but it's not from them lighting up the scoreboard like we saw last year. It's been outstanding defense that has got the Rockets back on track. 

I think because the offense hasn't looked great, they are still flying a bit under the radar. I certainly think they should be favored on the road over OKC. While the Thunder have won 6 straight (covered 5 in a row), they likely won't have Russell Westbrook.

Even if he plays, I still would like Houston at this line, as it's only a matter of time before the Rockets start connecting on their shots. There's too much talent on that roster for them to continue to shoot 42.4% from the field. 

Rockets are 30-18 ATS in their last 48 as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points and 28-14 in their last 42 as   a road favorite. Take Houston! 

4* NBA Western Conf PLAY OF THE WEEK on Grizzlies +

The betting public is going to see this line and feel great about backing the Nuggets as a short road favorite against a Grizzlies team that is off back-to-back losses. I see this line as a full on trap by the bookmakers. It tells me the books don't expect Denver to perform well in this spot. 

I agree with them. The Nuggets are coming off a 115-107 win over a Boston team a lot of people expect to be in the Finals. They are now 9-1 and have to be feeling pretty good about themselves. Add in all the Kyrie Irving and Jamal Murray BS that's in the media, and I just don't see them coming out ready to play against a Memphis team that wasn't good last year and so far doesn't look like anything special. 

Grizzlies didn't have Mike Conley last year and they do now, so this team is going to be better than last year. It will take a few games for them to get the chemistry back. They like the direction they are going. Part of the reason they are 5-4 is they have played 6 of their first 9 games on the road. They are 3-0 at home with all 3 wins coming by double-digits. Big statement game for them and I think they get the victory. Take Memphis! 

4* NBA Southeast TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Hawks/Hornets OVER

The books have completely missed the mark here with this total. Atlanta has played in 3 straight shootouts that have gone over the total, but I expect a much better defensive effort here on 2 days of rest. Hawks are also off a win and cover. UNDER is 21-5 in Atlanta's last 26 off a cover and 8-2 in their last 10 on 2 days of rest. 

I also think Atlanta's offense could struggle to reach their season average of 110.8 ppg. Charlotte's defense was on point last time out, holding the Cavs to just 94 points. They have held 4 of their last 5 opponents to 43.5% or worse from the field. 

UNDER is also a solid 11-4 in the Hawks last 15 road games vs a team with a winning home record. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Eastern Conf TOTAL OF THE WEEK  on Bulls/Knicks UNDER

Hard to not like the value here with the UNDER at this price. Chicago's playing short-handed early on this season, as they are without starters Lauri Markkanen and Kris Dunn, as well as key reserves Bobby Portis and Denzel Valentine. In their last 6 games they have scored 107 or fewer points in 5 games. The only exception was against Golden State when the Warriors gave up 74 points in the 2nd half with the game way out of reach. 

New York is in a similar spot, as they are still waiting for Kristaps Porzingis to play his first game. Rookie Kevin Knox and Courtney Lee are both out and now leading scorer Tim Hardaway Jr. may not be able to play, as he's dealing with a back injury. He's listed as questionable, but given this is the 2nd game of a back-to-back (played last night in Washington), have to think he will be given the night off. 

Just not enough offensive talent here to eclipse the total set here and both teams are playing hard defensively. UNDER is 6-1 in the last 7 Knicks games when they are facing a team with a losing record and 6-0 in the Bulls last 6 off a SU loss. Take UNDER! 

3* NBA Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE on Rockets +

It's been a roller-coaster start to the season for Houston, who no one thought would be sitting under. 500 (3-5) in November. However, it's a big shocker when you consider Harden has missed 3 games and Paul has missed 2. The only two guys to start all 8 games are Capella and Tucker. 

No way this team was going to keep playing as poorly as they were. They got their two stars back in the lineup and have won 2 straight. I look for them to make it 3 in a row with a win tonight at Indiana. The Pacers are quality team and are tough to beat at home, but I just think they are a bit outclassed here and in a big letdown spot after defeating Boston 102-101 on a last second 3-pointer by Oladipo. 

Rockets are a rock solid 58-38 ATS in all road games over the last 3 seasons, 28-14 ATS in their last 42 as a road favorite and 18-7 ATS in their last 25 as road favorite of 6 points or less. Take Houston! 

5* NBA Vegas Insider TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Rockets OVER

The under has cashed in each of the last 4 games for the Pacers and Houston is coming off a game against the Bulls where they won by a final score of 96-88. I think all of this has created some great value on the OVER in this one.

Both meetings between these two teams last year saw at least 213 points. Indiana is averaging 109.5 ppg at home and the Rockets are putting up 112.7. For whatever reason the Rockets have been ice-cold shooting at home, yet are hitting 46.4% from the field on the road and averaging 15 made 3-pointers on 37.3% shooting from deep.

With a big game against OKC (Melo was booted and signed with Houston) on deck for the Rockets and Indiana off the big win over Boston and another big game on deck against the 76ers, I just don't think we see an all out effort defensively from either side here. That should have this thing finishing a lot closer to 220-225. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Spurs UNDER

These two teams could have a difficult time just getting to 200 points. While scoring is up for the league as a whole, the Magic haven't caught on board. There's teams out there scoring 120+ on a nightly basis. Orlando has hit 100 points just 3 times in 8 games. Their last 3 games they have scored, 91, 99 and 95. 

Spurs are always a great fundamental team and execute at a high level. They are really playing well defensively right now, as they are giving up just 99.8 ppg over their last 4. San Antonio will have no problem keeping this Magic offense in check. I'm willing to be the Spurs won't score enough to eclipse this mark.

UNDER is 6-0 in the Spurs last 6 vs a team with a losing record 7-0 in the Magic's last 7 vs a team with a winning record and 7-0 in the last 7 meetings in the series. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Eastern Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Wizards -

Last time out the Wizards were booed off their own court in a 134-111 loss at home to the Thunder. Washington is now 1-7 thru their first 8 games and have lost 5 straight. It's not acceptable to go 1-7, but they have played 5 of their first 8 games not the road and their 3 at home were against likely playoff teams in the Heat, Raptors and Thunder. They also have 3 losses by 4-points or less. 

Simply put, it's not as bad as people are making it. I'm confident this team will get it figured out and I'm willing to bet it happens at home today against the Knicks. New York has played well at times and are off a nice 118-106 win at Dallas, but the Knicks aren't a playoff team. They are 3-6 on the season and I just don't see them being able to match the intensity of a desperate Wizards team that I believe will treat this like a must-win. Take Washington! 

3* NBA Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR on Nuggets -

I love the value here with Denver as a short home favorite against the Jazz tonight. The Nuggets have been one of the big surprises early on, as they have opened up 7-1 and are a perfect 4-0 at home, where they are outscoring teams by 12.2 ppg. 

Utah is a solid team, but I just don't think they have the good to keep this one close with how well Denver is playing. Especially given that the Jazz are playing on no rest after suiting up last night at home against the Grizzlies. It's also their 3rd game overall in the last 4 days. A situation in which the Jazz have gone a mere 16-29 ATS over the last 3 seasons. Utah is also just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 when playing on 0 days of rest. Take Denver! 

4* NBA Western Conf TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Warriors/Wolves UNDER

I just think that given how good the Warriors offense has been early on and this being a nationally televised game on ESPN, we are seeing quite the inflated total for tonight's showdown between Golden State and Minnesota. 

Last time out the Timberwolves knocked off the Jazz 128-125 as a 7-point home dog, which is worth noting, as the UNDER is 10-1 in Minnesota's last 11 road games off an upset win over a division rival as a home dog. Not to mention, there's no doubt the Timberwolves are going to give everything they got against the Warriors, regardless of the tension inside the locker room. 

UNDER is also 12-3 in the Warriors last 15 games against the Western Conference and 7-2-1 in their last 10 at home vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games. UNDER is also 22-8 in the last 30 meetings between these two franchises. Take the UNDER! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Suns

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Jazz

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

3* NBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Thunder UNDER

I'm expecting a big time effort here from Washington at home, as they try and get things going in the right direction after their 1-6 start. They still haven't won a game on their home court this season. You can count on them laying it all on the line here and it will certainly help that Dwight Howard is going to make his season debut. 

Big reason Washington has struggled is their defense and lack of rebounding, the two areas that Howard figures to impact the most. As for OKC and them not going off to push this over, this is a tough spot for the Thunder. They are coming off a 111-107 win at Charlotte last night, where they had to use a ton of energy rallying from a 19-point 2nd half deficit. I just think that effort and the travel will have them playing at a slower pace than normal.

UNDER is 31-13 in OKC's last 44 as a road dog, 15-5 in their last 20 on the road with a total of 220 or more and 11-2 in their last 13 after scoring 110 or more points in 3 straight games. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Rockets -

I don't think anyone saw Houston sitting at 1-5 thru their first 6 games. I know they just lost 104-85 at home to the Blazers and aren't expected to have James Harden back until tomorrow's showdown with the Bulls, but I just can't pass up on the Rockets at this price against the Nets. 

Brooklyn's not a good team. They are coming off a 1-point win at home against the Pistons, but shot just 42.6% from the field. Their other two victories are against the Knicks and Cavs. Houston simply can't continue to shoot as poorly as they have. They were 31 of 96 (32.3%) from the field against the Blazers. 

Big time bounce back spot for the Rockets off that embarrassing performance and the Nets are just the team to get them back on track. Houston is a solid 27-13 ATS as a road favorite over the last 2 seasons and a perfect 8-0 ATS in their last 8 road games off a blowout loss by 15 or more. Take Houston! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Kings/Hawks UNDER 

The Kings come into this one off a 107-99 win at Orlando as a 4.5-point dog, while Atlanta enters off an ugly 136-114 loss at Cleveland as a 4.5-point dog. Those two results set up a very profitable system on tonight's game going under the total. 

UNDER is 40-13 (76%) over the last 5 seasons when you have a team off an upset win as a road dog (Kings) playing against a team off a blowout road loss by 20 or more points. 

It's also worth noting the Kings have won 4 straight as an underdog and are now 5-3 on the season, which sets up another profitable system, as the UNDER is 23-5 (82%) with a total of 200 or more with a team off 2 or more outright wins as a road dog and have a winning record on the season. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Thunder/Hornets UNDER

Books have set the total too high for tonight's NBA action that has the Hornets hosting the Thunder. Both these teams are playing well coming into this game and I expect big efforts from each side on the defensive end. 

OKC has played well defensively this year and will be extra-motivated to get their first road win of the season. Charlotte has also been a strong defensive team early on and will definitely be up for this one against Westbrook and company. 

UNDER is 30-13 in OKC's last 43 as a road underdog and 6-1 in the Hornets last 7 vs a team with a winning record. 

There's also a great system in play. UNDER is 27-8 (77%) over the last 5 seasons when you have a total of 220 or more with a team off a home win by 10 or more against an opponent off a home win where they score at least 110 points. This system fits both of these teams! Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Non-Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Clippers/Sixers OVER

Get ready for some offensive fire-works in tonight's NBA showdown between the Clippers and 76ers. Neither of these teams brought much energy on the defensive side in their last game on Tuesday and with just 1-day off I expect more of the same. 

Los Angeles allowed 128 points and 51.1% shooting in 18-point loss at OKC, which saw a combined score of 238. Philadelphia gave up 129 and 51.1% shooting in a 17-point loss at Toronto, which saw 241 combined points. 

76ers come into this one averaging 115.2 ppg at home and the Clippers are averaging 117.3 ppg on the road. OVER is 13-4 in the Clippers last 17 after playing in a game with a combined score of 235 or more, 8-3-1 in their last 12 off a SU loss and 5-2 in Philadelphia's last 7 overall. Take the OVER! 

5* NBA Northwest GAME OF THE MONTH on Jazz UNDER

The books have completely missed the mark with this total. No way the Jazz and Timberwolves combine for 224 or more points. Minnesota is coming off a high-scoring game against LA, which was played at a frantic pace. While the Timberwolves put up 124, they only shot 42.9% from the field. That's 4 straight games where Minnesota has shot 43% or worse. 

Utah's defense gave up a couple of big numbers right out of the gate, but in their last 4 games they are holding their opponents to just 99.0 ppg. We saw the Timberwolves only score 95 in their previous home game against the Bucks. 

Look for the Jazz to really rely on that defense in this one, as they aren't going to want to play up-tempo here. This will be Utah's 4 straight on the road and 3rd game in the last 5 nights. 

Note that the UNDER is a solid 76-40 (66%) since 1996 when you have a total of 200 or more where a team is playing their 4th straight on the road and playing on 2 days of rest. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Underdog PLAY OF THE DAY on Pistons +

Love this price and spot with Detroit in a big time revenge game against the Celtics. These two teams just played in Detroit on Saturday, which Boston won by 20 (109-89) as a slim 3.5-point road favorite. Now the Celtics are a near double-digit favorite at home in a game that is going to mean a lot more to the Pistons than it is Boston. 

Detroit simply had an off night shooting against the Celtics on Saturday. They went just 33 of 89 (37.1%) from the field. Easily their worst shooting performance of the season. They are going to have a much better idea of what Boston is trying to do to them defensively and let's not forget the Pistons were 4-0 before that loss. 

Detroit is 6-2 ATS in their last 8 road games and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 off a SU loss by more than 10 points. Celtics on the other hand are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 off a SU win. Take Detroit! 

3* NBA Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Hawks +

Atlanta has already went into Cleveland and had their way with the Cavs 133-111 this season. While the Hawks will be playing on no rest, there's too much value here with Atlanta to pass up. The Cavaliers are a complete mess. They have already fired their head coach and now Kevin Love is out with a foot injury. 

Cleveland plays no defense, as opponents are shooting 51.2% from the field and 42.2% from long-distance. Offensively they have been dreadful from behind the 3-point line and it's not going to get any better with Love out. I wouldn't be shocked at all if the Hawks won by double-digits in Cleveland again. Take Atlanta! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG  on Lakers +

I've really liked what I have seen out of this Lakers team and while they come in with a 2-4 record, they could easily be 4-2 and have a much different perception than we see now. With Ingram back from his suspension and the way the LA offense has clicked early, I think they are going to score at will here against the dysfunctional Timberwolves. 

The Jimmy Butler drama has been a massive distraction for everyone involved in Minnesota. The sooner they make a move and move past this thing the better, but for now they are a team I will look to fade. The Timberwolves just lost at home to the bucks by a final score of 125-95. That really tells you how out of sync this team is. Not only are they not playing defense, the shots aren't falling on offense. Take Los Angeles! 

5* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Heat -

Great spot here to fade the Kings on the road. Sacramento is off back-to-back upset wins at home, as they defeated Memphis 97-92 as a 3-point dog and the Wizards 116-112 as a 5-point dog.

I think it has the Kings getting a little too much respect here against a Heat team that is off back-to-back impressive wins at home. Miami crushed the Knicks at home 110-87 and then followed that up with a 120-111 win over Portland. Long way for Sacramento to travel to open up their road trip and I look for them to come out a bit flat. 

That should be more than enough for the Heat to win here by double-digits. Kings are just 19-36 ATS in their last 55 games off 2 straight wins by 6 points or less. Sacramento has also struggled on the boards and the Heat are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 vs a team that is getting out-rebounded by 3+ boards per game. Take Miami! 

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Spurs UNDER

Great value here with the UNDER Saturday night in San Antonio, as the Spurs will host LeBron James and the Lakers. LA has been in a bunch of high-scoring games so far this season. The OVER is a perfect 5-0 and all 5 have seen at least 235 points. That includes a ridiculous 143-142 Spurs win in LA on 10/22. 

I think having just played each other will have both teams much better prepared defensively, which should lead to a lot lower-scoring game. I also don't think the pace will be there for the Lakers, who are playing in their 3rd game in 4 nights. 

I know the Lakers have been allowing teams to shoot extremely well from the field, but the UNDER is 10-1 in LA's last 11 after 3 straight games allowing teams to shoot 50% or better from the field. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Eastern Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Bucks -

Milwaukee has started out the 2018-19 season 5-0 and I look for them to stay undefeated with a comfortable win at home against the Magic. Each of the last 4 wins for the Bucks have come by at least 9 points, including a 30-point blowout win at Minnesota last night. 

I just don't think Orlando has the talent to keep this one close. Not a big deal here that Milwaukee is playing on no rest with how easy the win was last night against the Timberwolves. I would be more concerned about the Magic showing up, as they hit the road for the 3rd time in the last week and are just 1-day of rest. 

Orlando is a mere 4-14 ATS over the last 3 seasons when playing a top tier offensive team like Milwaukee, who are averaging 110 or more points/game. Magic are just 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 when playing on 1 day of rest, while the Bucks are 16-6-1 ATS in their last 25 on 0 days of rest. Take Milwaukee! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Warriors/Knicks UNDER

Public loves to back the OVER in games involving the Warriors and will be running to get their ticket on the OVER after Golden State just put up 144 points at home against the Wizards, which saw a combined score of 166. Even with that high-scoring game, the UNDER has cashed in 3 of the Warriors 5 games this season. 

I just don't think we are going to see 230 points between Golden State and New York. The Knicks just don't have the fire-power offensively and are coming off a game against Miami where they scored just 87 points on 36.3% shooting.

Everyone focuses on the offense of the Warriors, but this is a great defensive team. Opponents are only shooting 42.5% from the field against them. They are exceptional at defending the 3-pointer, as opponents are only hitting 29.3% from deep. 

UNDER is 19-9 in the Warriors last 28 after two straight games where they shot 50% or better from the field, 12-3 in their last 15 after scoring 125 or more and 5-1 in their last 6 road games. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Non-Conf TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Celtics/Thunder OVER

Boston has been such a good defense team under Brad Stevens and to no surprise they lead the league in defensive efficiency right out of the gate. The thing is, they have had two really good defensive efforts at home, holding the 76ers to 87 and the Magic to 93, but have allowed 113 (@ Toronto) and 101 (@ New York) in their two road games. 

Oklahoma City put up 120 points in Westbrook's first game back and this team is going to score a lot of points with him and George both healthy. While the offense should be great for the Thunder, the defense is still a work in progress. They also gave up 131 points and let the Kings shoot 54.9% from the field in Westbrook's first game back. 

Boston has a more than capable offense and I look for them to have no problem keeping pace offensively with OKC, who is playing at one of the fastest paces in the league, despite Westbrook not playing in their first two games. Take the OVER! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Suns

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

4* NBA Underdog PLAY OF THE WEEK on Bulls +

The public will be all over Charlotte here with the Hornets laying a short number against a Bulls team that is 0-3 and just released that starting point guard Kris Dunn is out 4-6 weeks. While that injury hurts, he didn't play in either of the first two, including a 2-point loss at home to the Pistons.

They still got a decent 1-2 punch with Zach LaVine and Jabari Parker. LaVine has been outstanding early, as he comes in averaging 32.3 ppg. Chicago is desperate for a win here and I think they get it. Charlotte just lost by 21-points at Toronto and I think they are wearing down from a brutal scheduling start to their season. After opening at home against the Bucks, they are getting ready to play their 4th straight on the road, all in a span of just 6 days. 

With a home game against these same Bulls on deck, I think it makes it that much harder for the Hornets to get up for this game. It's also worth noting they haven't responded well to blowout losses in the past. They are just 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 off a loss by more than 10 points. Take Chicago! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER on Clippers

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in information we receive close to game time. This might be injuries, starting lineups, or weather. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.