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! 

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* 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* 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! 

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!

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* 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! 

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 

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! 

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* 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* 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 

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! 

4* NBA Late Night Total NO BRAINER on Kings UNDER

This total might seem like it's way to low given the Suns have allowed 124 or more points in each of their first 3 games, twice allowing 130+. The most recent was a 88-130 defeat to the Clippers, which cost head coach Earl Watson his job just 3 games into the season. That's on the players and their lack of effort. I expect them to come out and given it all they got at home in this one. 

The Kings on the other hand are a team that has played in some really low-scoring games to start the year. They held the Rockets to 105 points in a game that had just 205 points with a total of 216.5. They then combined for 181 at Dallas with a total of 202 and 175 at Denver with a total of 212.5. Sacramento has held all 3 of their opponents under 44% shooting and now face a Suns team that has failed to score 90 in 2 of their 3 games. Key here is the Kings don't play at a frantic pace and aren't a great offensive team. Sacramento is averaging just 90.7 ppg.  Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Rockets OVER

Houston has went UNDER the total in each of their last two games, both games finishing with 205 or less. I think that has the total way too low for tonight's showdown against the Grizzlies. The Rockets only shot 39.8% from the field against at Sacramento on no rest after the big win at Golden State and still managed 105 points. They finished with 107 in their next game at home against the Mavs, but it would have been a lot more if the game wasn't a blowout. Houston had 92 points thru 3 quarters. 

Memphis is a good defensive team, but I don't see them being able to keep the Rockets offense in check with this game being played in Houston. Key here is the Grizzlies are in good form offensively to start the year, averaging 107.0 ppg. I think both teams easily eclipse the century mark and this one finishes closer to 225. Take the OVER! 

5* NBA Vegas INSIDER Top Play on Bucks UNDER

This might seem like a low total given the Bucks are giving up 108.7 ppg, but that's more of who Milwaukee has played. They opened the season at Boston before hosting the Cavs and Blazers. They held both the Celtics and Blazers UNDE 43% shooting and should be able to do it here against a Hornets team that is only hitting 41.5% from the field in two games against the Pistons and Hawks. 

Charlotte is playing a much slower-paced game with the focus on defense and the offense running through big man Dwight Howard. I look for both of these teams to struggle to get in any kind of rhythm offensively and don't think either side will be able to reach the 100 point mark in this one. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT  on Pistons -

I like the value here with Detroit laying a short number against the 76ers. Philadelphia is a good young team, but are getting a little too much respect on the road. The Pistons only loss so far in 2017 is a 4-point loss at Washington. Their only home game was the opener against Charlotte, which they won by 12 as a slim 2.5-point favorite. I look for Detroit to take control of this one early and pull away late for a comfortable win. 

Pistons are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 home games against a team with a losing road record and 12-2 ATS in their last 14 home games with a total of 210 to 219.5. Philadelphia is only 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings in the series and only 2-8 ATS in their last 10 trips to Detroit. Take the Pistons! 

4* LATE INFO INSIDER on Lakers OVER

No Analysis on late releases

3* NBA Over/Under Total NO BRAINER  on Hawks OVER

The fact that Atlanta scored just 91 in their last game at Charlotte has this total lower than it should be. Brooklyn has decided that defense isn't something they are all that interested in playing and I don't see it changing here. The Nets gave up 140 at Indiana in their opener and 121 last time out at home against the Magic.

Each of their first two games have had a combined score of at least 147 points. They also let both of those teams shoot better than 50% from the field, which speaks volumes to their effort on that side of the ball. The Hawks scored 117 at Dallas in their opener and I think they easily hit that mark, which should be more than enough to push this one over the number set by the books. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Clippers -

I think a lot of people wrote off the Clippers when Chris Paul decided to go to Houston, but this is still one of the top teams in the West and they are coming into this season with a chip on their shoulder. LA looked great in their opener against the Lakers, holding them to just 92 points and winning by 16 despite a bad shooting night (39.3%). 

I look for the shots to fall at a higher rate and for the Clippers to make easy work of the Suns tonight. Phoenix bounced back from a 76-124 loss to the Blazers in their home opener with a better showing, but still lost 130-132 to the Lakers last night. Their 3 best players in Booker, Bledsoe and Warren all logged 30+ minutes. I look for the Suns to come out flat and suffer another embarrassing loss.

Phoenix is a mere 4-15 ATS in their last 19 road games after scoring 115 or more in their previous game. The home team and the favorite are both 6-1 ATS last 7 in the series. Take Los Angeles! 

3* NBA Vegas ODDSMAKERS ERROR on Blazers +

For whatever reason Portland wasn't getting a ton of love coming into this season and I think they are still flying under the radar, which is hard to do when you are off back-to-back blowout road wins. The thing is they beat a couple of teams no one is expecting a lot out of, but I think we could see the Blazers be the Rockets of last year, who just covered everything to start the season as no one believed they were as good as they were playing. 

Portland is getting it down on both sides of the ball, averaging 119 ppg and allowing just 86 ppg. They held the Suns to 76 and Phoenix went out in their next game and scored 130. Indiana had just put up 140 and they held them to 96. Milwaukee's offense hasn't looked great and I think they struggle to keep pace with the Blazers in a bit of a letdown spot after hosting the Cavs on national TV last night. Take Portland! 

5* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Blazers UNDER

The books have set the bar too high on the total for Saturday's non-conference matchup between the Blazers and Bucks. Portland's defense has been exceptional to start the year. The Blazers held the Suns to just 76 points in their opener and that same Phoenix team score 130 the next night. They followed it up by holding the Pacers to just 96 and Indiana had scored 140 in their previous game.

Bucks are talented young team with a great player in Antetokounmpo, but aren't a great 3-point shooting team and are strong defensively. Exactly what you look for when you want a low-scoring game. I also think the tempo of this game won't be up to normal pace with both teams playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back. For Portland it's their 3rd road game in 4 nights and Milwaukee just put it all on the line last night against the LeBron and the Cavs at home. 

Backing this play is a great long-term system. The UNDER is 58-25 (70%) over the last 5 seasons (3-0 to start 2017) when you have a total of 200 or more in a non-conference game with a team that averaged 14 or fewer turnovers/game the previous year (Blazers). Take the UNDER!

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Bulls UNDER

I just don't see these two teams playing a very high-scoring game here tonight. San Antonio is without their best offensive weapon and MVP candidate in Kawhi Leonard, as well as starting PG Tony Parker. Chicago has half their roster either hurt or suspended and even at full strength the Bulls were going to feature one of the weakest rosters in the NBA, as they are in the very early stages of a major rebuilding phase. 

San Antonio is one of the most efficient defenses in the league just about every year and were spot in their opener, holding the T-Wolves to just 99 points on 43.5% shooting. Chicago only connected on 41.6% of their attempts at Toronto and I think they are going to find it really hard to put the ball in the basket tonight. Key here is we should get enough effort out of the Bulls defensively to keep this from going over. 

Backing this play is a great long-term system. The UNDER is 58-25 (70%) over the last 5 seasons (3-0 to start 2017) when you have a total of 200 or more in a non-conference game with a team that averaged 14 or fewer turnovers/game the previous year (Spurs). Take the UNDER!

5* 76ers/Raptors VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Raptors OVER 

I look for these two teams to fly OVER the total set here by the books. Philadelphia scored just 92 in the loss at home to Boston last night and are going to be without one of their best defenders in Embiid, who isn't playing back-to-backs just yet. I think the entire 76ers team struggles on defense being on the road with no rest against a potent Toronto offense that needed just 83 shots to score 117 in their opener.

The Raptors did allow a Bulls team that was missing half their roster to score 100, so we can expect Ben Simmons and company to at least hit that mark. Keep in mind that Philadelphia had 115 in their opener at Washington. 

OVER is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings overall and 6-2 in the last 8 times they have played in Toronto. OVER was 14-6 in 76ers last 20 games last year when playing on no rest and 7-0 in Toronto's last 7 home games when playing against a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Late Night VEGAS INSIDER  on Warriors -

Unfortunately for the Pelicans they are going to get a pissed off Warriors team, who has to be chomping at the bit to get back on the floor after blowing a 15-point lead in the 2nd half in a 121-122 home loss to the Rockets. There was some concern here with Draymond Green being able to play, but he's going to be in action. 

New Orleans has two of the best big men in the game, but that's about it. Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins both had a double-double and combined for 61 points, but only managed 91 for the game and lost by 8 to a pretty average Memphis team. I just don't see the Pelicans having enough offense, mainly 3-point shooting, to keep this competitive. Take Golden State! 

4* NBA Over/UNDER Total DOMINATOR on Jazz UNDER

The Timberwolves should be one of the more improved defensive teams this season. They added in Jimmy Butler, Taj Gibson and Jeff Teague to pair with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns. Head coach Tom Thibodeau is a defensive first guy and after not playing well on that side of the ball against the Spurs in the opener, I expect a strong showing at home against the Jazz. 

Utah is also the ideal teal for a team to go up against when you want to a low-scoring affair. The Jazz don't play at a frantic pace and are very strong defensively with the best rim protector in the game in Gobert. They allowed the fewest points in the league last year, giving up just 96.8 ppg and were on point in their opener, allowing just 96 to a very good Denver team that wants to get up and down the floor. 

UNDER is 21-9 in the T-Wolves last 30 games against a division opponent and 7-3-1 in their last 11 home games against the Jazz. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Eastern Conf TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Nets OVER

Defense is clearly not a priority for the Nets. Brooklyn ranked 2nd to last in points allowed last year at 112.5 ppg and started out the 2017 season by giving up 140 to a Pacers team that lost their best scorer in Paul George. The big difference is that the Nets now have some offensive fire-power to stay with teams. They scored 131 against the Pacers and even with the loss of Lin, should continue to score at a high rate. 

Orlando put up 116 in their opener against the Heat, while giving up 109 and that was with Miami shooting just 43% from the field. Both these teams want to push the pace and play in the open court, which should have us flying over the mark set by the books. 

History is also on our side here. The OVER is hitting at a 61% clip since 1996 when you have a team off a combined score of 225 or more against a team off a combined score of 235 or more. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Pistons +

I'm taking the points here with Detroit in Friday's showdown at Washington. The Wizards had their hands full in their home opener against the 76ers, where they failed to cover as a 7-point favorite.

I just feel Washington is getting a little too much love to start the season. They are down starting power forward Markieff Morris and could be without his backup in Jason Smith, leaving them very thin at the 4.

Detroit really impressed in their opener, defeating a good Charlotte team by 12 at home. They held the Hornets to just 90 points and under 40% from the field. They also took great care of the ball with just 9 turnovers. I like their chances of keeping this close and could easily see them winning this outright. Take Detroit. 

3* NBA Vegas LINE MISTAKE on Cavs -

Not to take anything away from the Bucks, who are going to be a force in the east for years to come, but this is simply too good of a price to pass up on the Cavs. Cleveland let a big lead slip away in an unfortunate non-cover against the Celtics at home on Tuesday, winning 102-99 as a 4.5-point favorite. That's helped us here with this line, plus we can count on the Cavs not taking their foot off the gas in this one. 

Losing Irving hurts, but I really like the moves Cleveland made in the offseason and really believe they are a better overall team than they were a year ago and will only get better once Isaiah Thomas returns from injury. The Cavs know the Bucks are a team on the rise and will want to make a statement against their division rivals early on. 

Whether it's a big home crowd or sold out arena on the road, Cleveland has been a great bet on Friday, going 23-8 ATS over their last 31, which includes a 13-4 ATS mark over the last 2 seasons. Take Cleveland! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Pistons OVER

Washington combined for 235 points with the 76ers in their home opener and I see another high-scoring game against Detroit at home tonight. The Wizards are down starting power forward Markieff Morris and may also be without his backup in Jason smith, who left the last game with a shoulder injury. They don't have a lot of other options outside of moving Kelly Oubre Jr. into the 4, which becomes a much more uptempo offense in their version of 'small ball' 

Detroit held the Hornets to just 90 points in their opener, but Charlotte was down 3 key players in Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Nicolas Batum and Michael-Carter Williams. While that aided their defense, the Pistons offense was sharp, connecting on 43% from the field. They are more than capable of running with the Wizards. Both teams should easily get to 100 points and have this finishing closer to 220. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Thunder -

I see no reason why OKC won't turn this into a blowout against the Knicks tonight, as they open the season at home in a nationally televised game on TNT. This team built around the all-star trio of Westbrook, Anthony and George aren't going to be as good right now as they will be in December, but they don't need to be great to dismantle this Knicks team. 

New York is in full on rebuilding mode and simply don't have the offensive playmakers to keep this close. Rookie point guard Frank Ntilikina will be wondering what he got himself into when he tries to guard Westbrook. At the same time, Westbrook is going to make his life miserable when he has the ball. The Knicks didn't even average 100 points/game in the preseason and I don't see them coming close to the century mark in this one. 

There's also a little extra incentive here for the Thunder players to make sure Carmelo gets a win against his former team. It might not be pretty at times, but OKC should pull away and win this by at least 15 points. Take Oklahoma City! 

5* Knicks/Thunder NO LIMIT Top Play on Thunder/Knicks UNDER

This is just too many points for this matchup. I believe we are seeing a high total here because of the fact that the Thunder now have 3 superstars in Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony. As good as those 3 are, it's going to take some time for these guys to form a chemistry on offense. George and Anthony are accustomed to being "the guy," but will have to learn to take a back seat to Westbrook. 

I think it takes as much as the first 20 games before this team really gels. The other thing is the depth isn't what it use to be. The Thunder are going struggle to get a whole lot out of their bench. 

There's also a decent chance the starters don't play the entire game here, as the Knicks have the makings of one of the worst teams in the league. New York just doesn't have the offensive fire-power and in today's game where everyone is lighting up the scoreboard, they didn't even average 100 ppg in the preseason when no one is playing defense. I don't see the offense doing much here on the road in what's going to be electric atmosphere inside Chesapeake Energy Arena. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Bulls +

I think we are seeing a big overreaction here with this line. It's well known the Bulls are going to be one of the worst teams in the league and they were just in the news for the wrong reasons with a couple teammates getting into it at practice. No one is giving this team a shot and while I don't see them winning this game, I think they surprise here and keep it much closer than expected. 

As good as the Raptors are it's not going to be easy to get excited about playing a team like Chicago, who has a bunch of nobody's on the roster. The one thing to keep in mind is that with the loss of Rondo, Butler and Wade, they can incorporate more of head coach Fred Hoiberg's offensive scheme, which is floor spacing and attacking with the 3-point shot. 

Toronto also has a history of not being able to cash against this team. The Bulls are a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 trips to Toronto. They make it 8-0 tonight. Take Chicago! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on 76ers/Wizards OVER

I think we are going to see a ton off offense and very little defense in the first of ESPN's double-header on Wednesday. The Wizards were 5th in the league last year at 109.2 ppg and should be every bit as explosive with their core back. Washington's defense wasn't great, giving up 107.4 ppg and I look for them to have their hands full against what many believe will be one of the most improved teams in the league. 

The 76ers not only have a healthy Embiid, but they get last year's No. 1 pick Ben Simmons after he didn't play at all last season, plus add in this year's No. 1 pick in Markelle Fultz. Not to mention a sneaky good free agent signing in sharpshooter J.J. Redick from the Clippers. When healthy, this is one of the deeper teams in the league and I expect them to look to push the pace with Simmons and Fultz.

While they could develop into a decent defensive team, that's going to take some time and probably won't be for a season or two, as they are so young and don't have a lot of chemistry together. Both teams should score well over a 100 points in this one. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Undervalued UNDERDOG on Nets +

The Nets were an NBA-worst 20-62 last year and have been one of the public's favorite teams to fade for the past few seasons. The public isn't going to hesitate laying the points here with the Pacers, as they will just go off what they remember from last year. 

The thing is, these are two drastically different teams. Indiana is in rebuilding mode after losing Paul George. The Nets on the other hand are improved, brining in the likes of D'Angelo Russell, DeMarre Carroll and Allen Crabbe, plus several others who figure to contribute. They also have a healthy Jeremy Lin at the point and when he was on the floor this team was a lot more competitive a season ago.

I'll take the points as some added insurance, but I full expect the Nets to win this game outright. Take Brooklyn! 

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

Both the Pistons and Hornets figure to be in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race and I think both teams are going to rely heavily on the defense this season. Charlotte went out an added Dwight Howard, who needs the game to be played at a slow pace to be a serious factor. The projected starting 5 lacks scoring outside of point guard Kemba Walker. 

Detroit's not much different, as they are built around big man Andre Drummond. The Pistons also added one of the premier perimeter defenders in Avery Bradley, who I'm sure will be matched up with Walker. Detroit ranked 26th in scoring last year and I don't see any reason to expect them to be much better. Both were Top 15 in scoring defense and while today's NBA features a lot more high-scoring games, I think we see a defensive battle here in the opener, which is also the first game in Detroit's new arena. Take the UNDER! 

3* Rockets/Warriors Opening Night TOTAL DESTROYER on Warriors UNDER

I like the value here with the massive total for Tuesday's opener between the Warriors and Rockets. These two teams were offensive juggernauts last year, but I just don't see this being a shootout. While the Warriors have basically the same team back from last year, Houston has added a huge new piece to the puzzle in point guard Chris Paul. 

The addition of Paul should make the Rockets a better team, but I think it's going to take some time for this team to find their chemistry. Last year James Harden dominated the ball and the offense ran completely through him. Paul is a similar type of player, who is at his best when the ball is in his hands. It's going to take some time for them to figure it out. 

Golden State's offense will be tough to stop, but this Houston team is as talented and deep as you will find and we can bank on the Rockets giving everything they have here against the defending champs and favorites to win it all this year. As for the Warriors, I think there's enough distractions here with the ring ceremony that we see a them come out less than 100% focused. Houston also added a couple of defensive minded players in P.J. Tucker and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, who give them a better shot at slowing down Durant, plus you now have Paul guarding Curry. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Finals Game of the Year on Warriors -

There's no question the refs were doing their part to extend the series at least one more game with how they officiated that 1st quarter of Game 5, which Cleveland managed to score a ridiculous 49 points in the 1st quarter and 86 in the 1st half. The Cavs were shooting free throws left and right early. That played a huge role in the game. More than anything them getting off to that strong start gave them confidence, which led to a great shooting night. It also got the Warriors in foul trouble and didn't let them play with the same intensity on defense. It's not that Golden State wasn't committing any fouls, it's just they weren't calling the same fouls on Cleveland on the other side of the ball. With the series back in Golden State, I look for the Warriors to get a more favorable whistle and that should be all they need to not only win, but to win in blowout fashion. Take Golden State!

5* NBA Finals VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Warriors -

I'll be the first to admit that I was fortunate to cover with the Warriors in Game 3, but I'm not jumping off them, even with a bigger number in Game 4. Cleveland played as well as they could and had to feel like they had the game won before that epic collapse in the final 3 minutes. I just don't see the Cavs emotionally and physically having what it takes to keep Game 4 competitive. Yes, it's the NBA Finals, but going out with a fight isn't as big a deal for a team that just won the title last year. On the flip side of this, I see no letdown for the Warriors, who are not only chasing a perfect 16-0 record in the postseason, but I believe they want to return the favor and celebrate the title on Cleveland's floor after losing Game 7 at home last year. You have to be 100% locked in to beat this Warriors team and I just don't see being the case for Cleveland, who I think will be quick to throw in the towel once Golden State gets anywhere close to a double-digit lead. Take Golden State!

5* NBA Finals NO LIMIT Top Play on Warriors -

As much as everyone wants Cleveland to make this a series and win Game 3 at home, I just don't think it's going to happen. It would be one thing if Golden State finished off the Cavs last year after taking a 3-1 lead, but because they failed to do so, I don't see them taking any game for grantit. I look for them to come out 100% locked in on taking a 3-0 lead and I just don't know what Cleveland is going to do to stop them. LeBron is averaging a triple-double and they are getting beat by 20+ points/game. Even if the Cavs' role players step up and play better, I still think it takes a near perferct performance just for them to win this game. I also hear alot about how the first two games last year in Golden State were blowouts. That team didn't have Durant and he's the MVP of the finals right now. Take Golden State! 

5* NBA Finals NO LIMIT Top Play on OVER

After a relatlvely low-scoring Game 1, I think we are seeing some decent value here on the total and it going over the mark in Game 2. Keep in mind the total was as high as 227 in Game 1. Golden State scored 113 and it could have been a lot more had they not missed so many easy shots around the rim. The real killer to the total in Game 1 was the Cavs inability to get their offense going, as well as they just shot the ball bad. Cleveland shot just 34.9% from the field. What people overlook is the Warriors also didn't have a great shooting performance, as they hit only 42.5%. Their worst mark from the field since a regular season meeting against the 76ers back on March 14. The lopsided score also aided a lower scoring Game 1, though I think we could see another blowout and this game still fly over the mark. Take the OVER!

5* NBA Finals NO LIMIT Top Play on Warriors -

These two teams are clearly in a class above the rest of the league, I just feel that the Warriors are the more complete team. James is the best player in the game, but he's going up against 4 of the best players in the game in Durant, Curry, Thompson and Green, plus I feel that Golden State has the deeper roster. You also can't discount the revenge here with the Warriors after blowing a 3-1 lead in last year's Finals.

It's also worth pointing out that the home team has dominated the spread in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, going 11-1 ATS in the last 12. On top of that, James' teams are 1-6 ATS in Game 1 of the Finals. Take Golden State! 

5* NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Celtics +

Not a big surprise that Boston is a bigger home dog here in Game 5 than they were in Games 1 and 2 with the loss of star point guard Isaiah Thomas, but I'm not so sure the loss of Thomas is as bad as people think. The Celtics won their first game without him in Cleveland and followed that up with another strong showing in a loss in Game 4, where Irving went off and the Cavs didn't miss in the 2nd half (shot 65% from the field).

How are they better? As good of a scorer as Thomas is, he's a major liability on defense, especially when he's got to guard Irving and get put in pick-n-rolls with LeBron. At the same time, Boston's offense is more of a system than anything, much like the Spurs, which can give teams problem. I actually think the loss of Thomas has helped them move the ball better. I don't see this team going down without a fight and wouldn't be shocked if they won this game outright. Take BOSTON!

5* NBA Playoffs NO LIMIT Top Play on Cavaliers -

I know this is a huge number and the Celtics just won outright as an even bigger dog in Game 3, but I just don't see this game being competitive. Cleveland did whatever they wanted in the first two games of the series, including that epic beatdown in Game 2, where they were up by 50. If they were going to suffer a letdown, it was going to be Game 3 and while it happened, they still had a 20+ point lead in the 2nd half.

A 100% locked in Cleveland team will take the floor tonight and no one is going to be more motivated than LeBron James, who has been hearing nothing but how poorly he played in Game 3. I think we could see another massive blowout here and I'm confident that the Cavaliers wins here by 20+ points. Take Cleveland!

5* NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Warriors -

I'll take my chances with the Warriors closing this series out in fashion, much like they did in the first two rounds on the road. Up 3-0 on the Blazers in Round 1, Golden State defeated Portland 128-103. In the next round, up 3-0 on the Jazz, they crushed Utah on the road 121-95. I expect a similar outcome here and wouldn't be shocked if got ugly. San Antonino gave it all they had in Game 3 without Khawi and lost by 12 and with him still sidelined and David Lee also now out, I just don't see the Spurs truly believing they can come back and make this a series.

As for Golden State, they got a great reminder of what can happen when you take your foot off the gas with the Celtics improbable win yesterday. They also now have a chance to get some extra rest on Cleveland before the finals, who still has to play at least two more games. Take Golden State!

4* Celtics/Cavs Game 3 Annihilator on OVER

Each of the first two games have flirted right on the number with Game 1 just squeaking OVER and Game 2 staying UNDER. Both games we got next to nothing from Boston's offense and still almost hit our mark. I know this series is all but over, but I don't expect the Celtics to go down without a fight here. I also think that we could see the Cavs relax a bit defensively given how easy it's been so far in the series and that Boston will be without their best player in Thomas. As for Cleveland's offense, I don't see them taking their foot off the gas and I don't see the Celtics doing anything here to stop them from lighting up the scoreboard, especially now that the series has shifted to Cleveland Take the OVER! 

5* NBA Conference Finals Game of the Year on UNDER

Each of the first two games in this series have gone well over the total and yet we are seeing the books stick close to their original number of 212 that they opened with for Game 1. With the series shifting to San Antonio and the Warriors off a 36-point blowout win in Game 2, I think Game 3 is poised to be a much lower-scoring game. For one, Golden State is primed for some kind of letdown here after how easy it was in Game 2 and don't figure to shoot as well on the road. San Antonio on the other hand is playing to keep their season alive. While the series isn't over with a loss, the Spurs know their chances of advancing down 3-0 are slim to none against this Warriors team. We are going to get everything San Antonio has and they know their only way of even keeping it close so they have a chance to win is to lock down defensively and slow the pace of play down. My money is on Popovich and his staff to make the proper adjustments and keep the Warriors high-powered attack in check. Take the UNDER!

5* NBA Playoffs NO LIMIT Top Play on Cavs -

I was all over Cleveland in Game 1 and I just can't go against them after what I saw in the opener. As I mentioned in my analysis for Game 1, the Cavs are taking note of everything the Warriors are doing and want to match their perfect 10-0 start to the postseason.The last thing they want is to have this series drag out before taking on Golden State.

I know this team struggled some with Indiana, but they were in the process of turning on that playoff switch after not playing well to close out the regular season. They made easy work of a very good Toronto team in the next round and did whatever they wanted to the Celtics on Wednesday. I truly believe Boston has to play their best just to keep this game close and could do so and still not cover this spread.

LeBron James is playing out of his mind and when he's locked in like this, there's no stopping this team, at least in the Eastern Conference. Keep in mind this is a Cavs team that is fresh right now, having played a mere 9 games in over a month (played first playoff game on 4/15). Take Cleveland!

5* NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Cavs -

Don't think for a second that Cleveland isn't taking notice of the Warriors and their perfect 10-0 start. The Cavs also went a perfect 8-0 in the first two rounds and I'm not buying this team coming out flat. Not after watching how Golden State struggled after their long layoff in Game 1 against the Spurs. Cleveland also has a little extra motivation, as they are trying to take control of home court in the series.

The Cavs won 3 of the 4 meetings in the regular season and I think the most telling of those games was the most recent one on April 5th. At that time these two were neck and neck for the No. 1 seed in the east. Cleveland didn't just go into Boston and beat the Celtics, they dominated them 114-91, easily covering at a near identical line to what we are getting here in Game 1. It's also worth noting the only game the Cavs lost in the regular season series was a 99-103 defeat at Boston, where they shot a miserable 40% from the field.

All of this and we haven't got to the fact that this is a difficult spot for Boston. The Celtics just finished up a grueling 7-game series against the Wizards on Monday. The Cavs haven't played since 5/7. They had a similar layoff between the 1st and 2nd round and won Game 1 over the Raptors rather easily. Take Cleveland!

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Warriors -

It's unfortunate what happened with Kawhi Leonard in Game 1, but it was clear that his absence changed everything. It's not so much his scoring that San Antonio missed, but his defense. Sure the rest of the Spurs are going to come out motivated, but this is the Western Conference Finals. Golden State is too talented and respects the game too much to take this one for granted. They haven't forgot what San Antonio did to the Rockets on the road without Leonard to close out their previous series and how this team jumped all over them to start Game 1. I expect a much different Warriors team from the tip and let's face it, this is the most talented team in the league and I just feel it's going to be too much for the Spurs without Leonard to keep this one competitive. Take Golden State!

5* Wizards/Celtics Game 7 Top Play on UNDER

The OVER had gone 4-1 in the series before a grueling 92-91 win by the Wizards in Game 6. It wasn't just one quarter where both teams were off. The highest combined point total of any quarter was 52. That's a 110 pace if they would have reached that mark in every quarter. This is just how the playoffs work. The deeper you get into a series the more intense it gets. That combined with the familiarity with each other usually results in much lower scoring games than what we might have seen earlier in the series.

This is really magnified in Game 7, where it's win or go home. Not only are teams giving 100% on defense every single play, but the pressure of the game often leads to some poorer shooting percentages. For most of the players on both of these teams, this will be the biggest game of their career. I would side with Boston given the advantage the home team has in Game 7 historically, but feel the best value is with the total. Take the UNDER!

5* NBA Playoffs NO LIMIT Top Play on Spurs +

As good as the Warriors have looked in the first two rounds, I think they are going to have a much more difficult time getting past the Spurs. San Antonio just eliminated the Rockets on the road without their best player and did so in blowout fashion. That's a direct credit to Popovich and the system the Spurs have in place. Not that the Spurs are talented, but they aren't on the same level as these Warriors. However, coaching and execution on both sides of the ball will give them a shot. More than anything their defense and ability to keep the Warriors from just unloading 3-pointers. I'm not saying the Spurs win Game 1 on the road, but I do think it's a close game and they cover the near double-digit spread. Take San Antonio!