4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards +4.5

Bottom Line: Washington somehow didn't cover last night against the Heat at home after jumping out to a 35-point lead. The most important thing was they got the win and showed signs of life after an awful stretch of basketball. I look for the Wizards to come out with that same intensity against a Milwaukee team that is in the middle of a major slump, having lost 4 straight and 6 of 7 overall. Washington is 25-14 ATS in their last 39 road games after playing their last game at home, while Bucks are just 3-15 ATS in their last 18 hoem games when revenging a home loss. Pound the Wizards +4.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nets -2.5

Bottom Line: Value here is clearly with the Nets, who are being undervalued due to losing by 24-points at home in their last game. Brooklyn was in a major letdown spot after a big win over the Warriors and I look for them to come out extremely motivated and cash in an easy cover against a Phoenix team that has trailed by at least 15-points in each of their last 3 games. Road teams with a line of +3 to -3 after two or more consecutive overs, who are averaging 102+ ppg against an opponent that is allowing 98-102 ppg are just 13-38 (25%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Nets -2.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Mavericks/Blazers UNDER 199

Bottom Line: The books have set the mark too high for this one. Portland isn't going to be looking to push the pace after laying everything they had on the line in last night's overtime win at Los Angeles and Dallas is not the same dynamic offense since acquiring Rondo. Not to mention the Mavericks will be without one of their top offensive weapons in Chandler Parsons and we can expect max effort defensively here in a nationally televised game on TNT. UNDER is 6-1 in the Mavs last 7 road games and 9-2-1 in their last 12 against a team that's won more than 60% of their games. UNDER is also 5-0 in the Blazers last 5 games played on Thursday and 5-1 in their last 6 playing on 0 days rest where the starting 5 accounted for more than 160 minutes. Pound the UNDER 199!

5* WISEGUY NBA *NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH* on Suns -4

Bottom Line: Phoenix is being way undervalued here due to the fact that they come in off back-to-back blowout losses to the Spurs (74-101) and Heat (98-115). This is a perfect spot for them to bounce back against a Magic team that isn't any good and is playing with zero confidence off 3 straight losses. Road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points after being beaten by the spread by 24 or more points total in their last three games against opponent after going under the total by 54 or more points total in their last ten games are 33-9 (79%) ATS since 1996! Pound the Suns -4!

5* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Rockets/Hawks UNDER 199

Bottom Line: The Rockets are one of the most explosive offensive teams in the league, averaging 103.3 ppg, but that's largely been due to the play of Harden, who is in the running for the league MVP. Harden won't be in action tonight and I believe it's created some great value here on the total. Atlanta is only giving up 95.1 ppg at home and offensively are averaging just 93.8 ppg over their last 5. UNDER is 5-0 in the Rockets last 5 after allowing 100 or more in their last game and 5-0 in the Hawks last 5 after a SU win. Pound the UNDER 199!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nets +6.5

Bottom Line: The Warriors are 7-3 SU and just 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games, which goes to show the book are clearly inflating their lines. I believe that's the case again tonight, as Golden State should not be laying 6-points on the road in this spot. The Warriors are coming off a draining 106-101 win at Boston yesterday, which saw them rally from 26 down. Plus, Golden State is playing their 4th game in 5 days, which should have them lacking any sort of motivation or energy for this road game. Brooklyn has played much better since the break going 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS, plus are 19-9 ATS in their last 28 in the 2nd half against teams outscoring opponents by 3+ points/game. Pound the Nets +6!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Thunder -3.5

Bottom Line: Even without Westbrook and Durant sidelined, I look for the Thunder to have no problem leaving Los Angeles with an easy victory over the Lakers. The fact that Oklahoma City is short-handed is going to take away a lot of motivation for Los Angeles to play hard, which is a key factor that often times gets overlooked. Favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points who are a poor defensive team (98-102 ppg) against a horrible defensive team (102+ ppg) after 42+ games and after a game where both teams in their last contest scored 105+ are 36-11 (77%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Thunder -3.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks -

Bottom Line: This is a great price to back Atlanta. The Hawks are returning to form after a minor slump and are the more equipped team out of these two excel in a back-to-back set. Miami is not a good team and have really struggled at home this year, going just 10-16 SU and 9-17 ATS. Atlanta is 12-4 ATS in their last 16 after winning 3 of their last 4 and should have no problem here winning by 6+ points against the Heat. Pound the Hawks -5.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE UNDERDOG* on Nuggets +

Bottom Line: As bad as the Nuggets have been playing of late, they should not be a home dog to the Jazz, especially with Utah coming in off a bad home loss to the Lakers. Denver will be getting back both Kenneth Faried and Wilscon Chandler from injury, which I believe will be enough to not only have them covering the spread, but winning this game outright. Pound the Nuggets +4!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nets +6.5

Bottom Line: The Nets are being undervalued here at home off a 96-102 road loss at New Orleans as a 2.5-point favorite. Brooklyn has quietly been playing much better of late and that's evident by their 7-4 ATS record over their last 11 games. This is a great spot to back the Nets, as Houston could be missing both Harden and Beverley (questionable) and are in a major lookahead spot with a nationally televised home games against the Cavs on deck. Pound the Nets +6.5!

4* NBA *TOTAL DOMINATOR* on Cavs/Pacers UNDER 197

Bottom Line: The Cavaliers will be without point guard Kyrie Irving and aren't going to have the legs to run up the score after playing a huge home game against the Warriors last night. Indiana has quietly won 6 of 8 and have done so with their defense. These two teams recently played on Feb. 6, so there's some familiarity with each others offense, adding value to the under. Not to mention the UNDER is 9-2 in the Cavs last 11 road games against a team with a losing home record and 22-10 in their last 32 overall. UNDER is also 5-2 in Pacers last 7 off a SU loss of more than 10 points and 5-2 in their last 7 after allowing 100+. Pound the UNDER 197!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE TNT WINNER* on Cavaliers -3.5

Bottom Line: This will likely be the last time during the regular season where we will find the Cavaliers this small a home favorite. Cleveland got off to a slow start, but have quickly turned things around and have shown no signs of slowing down. The Cavaliers are 10-0 SU and 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games. Cleveland lost at GS earlier this year, but were without James. They aren't going to lose the rematch at home, especially in a nationally televised game. Pound the Cavaliers -3.5!

4* NBA *SUREFIRE UNDERDOG* on Kings +7

Bottom Line: The Kings come into this one well rested off a 3-day break and have recently got a renewed sense of energy with the addition of George Karl as their new head coach. Sacramento will be highly motivated here off a 27-point road loss to the Clippers and are catching the Grizzlies in a big letdown spot after two huge road wins against the Trail Blazers and Clippers. Kings are 34-17 ATS in their last 51 home games as an underdog of 6.5 to 9 points and the Grizzlies are just 4-12 ATS in their last 16 games against teams who are getting outscored by 3 or more points/game. Pound the Kings +7!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Rockets/Clippers OVER 214.5

Bottom Line: Whenever the Rockets match up against a team that likes to play at a fast pace, there's a good chance it will go over the total. In fact, the OVER is 24-13 in Houston's last 37 games against up-tempo teams who are averaging 83 or more shots per game. OVER is also 4-1 in the Clippers last 5 against an opponent that just allowed 100+ points and 6-1 in the Rockets last 7 after a SU win by more than 10 points. Pound the OVER 214.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE UNDERDOG* on Pacers +7

Bottom Line: The Pacers have won 6 of 7 and come in off an impressive 104-98 home win over the Warriors. While that win may appear to put Indiana in a letdown spot, they aren't going to get a big head due to Golden State being without Steph Curry. I look for them to take the same approach against the Thunder, who will be without Durant. Key here is the Pacers are on a roll offensively, hitting 47% from the field while averaging 102.4 ppg over their last 5. Road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points who have shot 47% or better from the field in 3 straight games are 79-46 (63%) ATS over the last 5 seasons! Pound Indiana +7!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE UNDERDOG* on Timberwolves +9

Bottom Line: The Timberwolves have won 4 of their last 6 games and have been playing much better basketball since getting Rubio back healthy. However, Minnesota is still be valued based on their overall record, which makes them an easy play tonight against the Rockets. Houston is coming off a big home game against the Raptors and have an even bigger game on deck against the Clippers on Wednesday, which they will be out for revenge from a 15-point loss at LA just a couple weeks ago. Timberwolves are a profitable 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games revenging a home loss. Pound Minnesota +9!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Magic -8

Bottom Line: The 76ers got worse at the trade deadline, shipping away two of their best players in Carter-Williams and McDaniels. Philadelphia doesn't have the talent to keep up on the road, even against an average team like the Magic. Orlando has looked a lot better since making a change at head coach and I look for them to have no problem winning here by double-digits. Road underdogs who are averaging 16+ turnovers/game are just 133-204 (39%) ATS in the month of February since 1996. Pound Orlando -8!

5* WISEGUY NBA *EASTERN CONF GAME OF THE MONTH* on Pelicans +1.5

Bottom Line: The Heat returned from the All-Star break with an impressive 111-87 road win over the Knicks, which might make it appear like Miami is a safe bet at home against a Pelicans team that has lost 4 straight, including a 84-95 loss at Orlando last night. However, the Heat are not nearly as good at home as they are on the road. Miami is 9-15 at home, compared to 14-15 on the road. New Orleans is 10-2 ATS in their last 12 when playing on no rest and 14-2 ATS in their last 16 off a road loss. Pound the Pelicans +1.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *WESTERN CONF TOTAL OF THE MONTH*

Bottom Line: Each of the last 3 times these two teams have faced off in Dallas, they have combined for at least 220 points and I see no reason why that trend won't continue tonight. Both of these teams like to play at a fast pace and shouldn't have any problem pushing the pace given the long All-Star break. OVER is 15-4 in the Mavs last 19 when playing 4 or less games in 10 days and 8-1 in the Rockets last 9 road games after failing to cover the spread last time out. Pound the OVER 211!

4* MAJOR WIZ/CAVS NBA *ESPN SUREFIRE*

Bottom Line: The Cavaliers won 14 of their final 16 games before the All-Star break and I don't see any reason why Cleveland won't carry over that success down the stretch. The Cavaliers did lose their last game before the break 98-113 at Chicago, but were without Kevin Love and didn't seem all that interested. The key thing here to keep in mind is that Washington is a 1/2 game up on Cleveland in the standings, so the Cavs won't be taking this one lightly. Wizards are without one of their top players in Beal and are just 3-13 ATS in their last 16 home games when playing 6 or less games in 14 days. Roll the Cavaliers -3!

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Spurs -3

Bottom Line: The Spurs will be out for revenge after losing by 20-points at home to the Clippers in the last meeting (had won previous 4) and I fully expect them to get it. Blake Griffin had 22 points in that last contest and he's out with an injury, while the Spurs will have the services of Kawhi Leonard, who missed the last meeting. Teams with a line of +3 to -3 who have beat the spread by 18 or more points in their last 3 games (Clippers) against an opponent who has gone UNDER the total by 42 or more combined points in their last 7 games are just 21-47 ATS over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Spurs -3!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE ATS SMASH* on Wizards +5

Bottom Line: Washington will be out for revenge against the Raptors after losing in overtime at home against Toronto just 11 days ago. The Wizards come in off two dominant performances and this will be their last crack at the Raptors in the regular season. Washington is 16-5 ATS in their last 21 when revenging a loss where they allowed 110 or more points, while Toronto is 1-10 ATS in their last 11 home games when they come in having won at least 8 of their last 10. Pound Washington +5!

4* MAJOR NETS/GRIZZLIES NBA *BEST BET*

Bottom Line: While the Nets will be playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back set, the books have over adjusted this line with the public going to be all over the Grizzlies off that big home win against the Hawks. Brooklyn is 23-6 ATS in their last 29 road games after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games and a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 against at team that's won more than 60% of their games. Memphis is just 14-31 ATS in their last 45 when listed as a favorite of 10 or more points. Pound Brooklyn +12.5!

5* WISEGUY NETS/BUCKS NBA *BEST BET*

Bottom Line: Brooklyn will be out to make a statement against their former coach and also motivated from an ugly 37-point loss at Washington on Saturday. The Nets also have revenge on their minds, as they blew a 8-point halftime lead in a 118-122 triple-overtime home loss to the Bucks. Brooklyn is 14-4 ATS in their last 18 road games after failing to cover the spread in 2 straight games and 12-3 ATS in their last 15 after trailing in their previous game by 15+ points at the half, while Milwaukee is 4-13 ATS in their last 17 home games after a SU win. Pound the Nets +5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *GAME OF THE MONTH*

Bottom Line: The Hornets are getting way undervalued here due to losing yesterday to the 76ers. Charlotte has won 5 straight and 6 of 7 at home, including a 80-71 victory over these Pacers. Teams revenging a loss to an opponent off a road loss with a line of +3 to -3 are 144-288 (39%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Hornets +1!

4* MAJOR NBA *TOTAL DOMINATOR* on Mavs/Blazers UNDER 207

Bottom Line: The books have set this number too high. These two teams combined for just 195 points in their previous matchup this season and both come in off strong defensive efforts. The Blazers held the Suns to just 87 points and the Mavs limited the Kings to only 78. UNDER is 20-7 in the Blazers last 27 games with a total set at 200 or more and 8-1 in the Mavs last 9 when revenging a road loss. Pound the UNDER 207!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +6.5

Bottom Line: Denver has lost 4 straight and 11 of 12 overall, which I believe has them showing great value here as a 6.5-point dog against the Pistons. Detroit has lost 5 of 7 and are simply not the same team without Jennings in the lineup. Pistons have gone just 12-23 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons. They are also just 3-12 ATS in their last 15 home games played on Friday nights and 4-16 ATS in their last 20 home games when revenging a same season loss. Pound the Pistons +6.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *UNDERDOG ATS SMASH*

Bottom Line: The books are begging for you to take the Cavaliers in this one. Cleveland has won 12 straight and are coming off an impressive blowout victory over the Clippers last night on TNT. Indiana will be the more motivated team in this one and I look for them to give the Cavaliers all they can handle on their home floor. Keep in mind that Cleveland is just 9-14 ATS on the road, where they are getting outscored on the season. Only 4 of their 12 wins during their current stretch have come on the road and 3 of those were by 8 points or fewer. Indiana is 21-8 ATS in their last 29 home games when playing 4 or less games in 10 days. Pound the Pacers +6.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *RIVALRY ATS ANNIHILATOR* on Knicks +7

Bottom Line: New York has won 3 of their last 5 trips to Brooklyn and wouldn't be surprised if they pulled off the upset in this one. We are seeing a major overreaction on Brooklyn, who comes in off back-to-back wins over the Clippers and Raptors. This will be the first time the Nets have been favored since laying 10-points at home in a 88-90 loss to the 76ers. It's also worth noting that New York has been playing much better of late. While they lost their most recent matchup, they are 5-3 in their last 8. Brooklyn is 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games off an upset win as a road underdog. Pound the Knicks +7!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards -1.5

Bottom Line: Washington will be out for revenge after losing at home to the Hornets 88-92 on Monday. Revenge in the NBA is at it's strongest in the short-term and the Wizards are primed for a win after losing 4-straight. Home underdogs off 2 or more consecutive road wins are a mere 8-26 (23%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Pound Washington -1.5!

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +3

Bottom Line: This may seem like an opportune time to back the Celtics as a small home favorite against a Nuggets team that is just 1-10 in their last 11 games, but the smart money here will be on Denver. Boston has struggled to put back-to-back games together and we see that home favorites who have lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games that are also playing at least their 9th game in the last 14 days are just 38-71 ATS since 1996. Nuggets are also 23-9 ATS in their last 32 road games after trailing in their previous game by 20 or more points at the half. Pound Denver!

5* WISEGUY NBA NORTHWEST GAME OF THE MONTH on Trail Blazers -8

Bottom Line: This is a huge bounce back spot for Portland, who comes in having dropped 3 straight on the road. Utah on the other hand is primed for a letdown after knocking off Golden State at home 110-110 as a 10-point underdog. Underdogs off a win by 10 points or more as an underdog are 7-24 (23%) ATS over the last 5 seasons against an opponent that's off an upset loss as a favorite. Pound the Trail Blazers!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET*

Bottom Line: The Raptors have won 6 straight in the series with all 3 of their home wins during this stretch by at least 10-points. That includes a 124-83 home win over the Bucks earlier this season back on Nov. 21. Toronto also comes in playing some of their basketball of the season, as they have won 6 straight. Raptors are 21-10-1 ATS in their last 32 against the NBA Central and 31-19 ATS over the last 2 seasons when the books set a total of 200 to 209.5. Additionally, home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points who have a +3 to +7 ppg differential against an opponent with a +/- 3 ppg differential are 32-8 ATS since 1996 after 42+ games and after scoring 110 or more in 2 straight games. Pound Toronto!

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Knicks -3

Bottom Line: The Knicks are playing their best basketball of the season. They lost by 21 at Indiana last time out, but that loss came a night after a big win over the Thunder so it was a letdown spot. New York is 3-0 SU and ATS in its last 3 at home, and I expect this trend to continue. The Lakers are now in a letdown spot following a big upset win over the Bulls. They've lost 9 of their last 10 and have really struggled on the road where they are 0-6 in their last 6. LA is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 road games. The home team has had a significant edge in this series of later, going 6-0 SU and ATS in the last 6 meetings with all 6 wins coming by at least 6 points.

5* WISEGUY NBA *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* (ESPN) on Suns -5

Bottom Line: This is a bad spot for the Bulls, who are playing their 2nd road game in as many nights and 3rd in 4 days. To make matters worse, each of Chicago's last two games have gone to OT, and it played a double-OT game last night. I just don't see Chicago having enough left in the tank to keep this one within the number against a Phoenix squad that has been at home and is rested. The Bulls are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Suns are 36-16 ATS in their last 52 versus Eastern Conference opponents. Pound the Suns.

4* MAJOR NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Lakers +8.5

Bottom Line: This is a letdown spot for the Bulls who are off a thrilling upset victory over the Warriors. It's also a look-ahead spot with a game in Phoenix tomorrow night on deck. Chicago will want to make sure it has something left in the tank for that one. The Bulls are 3-13 ATS following a road win this season. They are 26-47 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons. They are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games versus a team with a losing record and 18-37-1 ATS in their last 56 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400.

4* MAJOR NBA *PRIME TIME PUNISHER* on Grizzlies -10

Bottom Line: This is a bad spot for Denver, which will be playing its 4th game in 5 days and has had to travel after its last 2. Playing road games on consecutive nights is one of the toughest situations in the NBA. The Nuggets are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games playing without a day of rest. To make matters worse for Denver, Memphis will be motivated. The Grizzlies were embarrassed in Denver earlier this month, and they will be looking for payback. We saw the way they paid back Dallas on the road last game, crushing the Mavs 109-90 as 6-point dogs. That win is worth mentioning because the Grizzlies are 16-3 ATS in home games when checking in off a double-digit upset victory on the road since 1996.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +7

Bottom Line: I like the Kings catching a fair amount of points as they will be the much fresher side. Sacramento has been off since Friday while Toronto just played last night in Indiana. I also expect to see a stronger defensive effort from the Kings after allowing Klay Thompson to set records for points and 3-pointers in a quarter. The Raptors are 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 games overall, including 0-5 ATS in their last 5 at home. Playing on road teams that have allowed 100 points or more in 2 straight games has resulted in an 85-45 ATS record the last 5 seasons, provided they average 98-102 ppg and are playing a team that allows 98-102 ppg.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers +4

Bottom Line: The Raptors have been struggling for a month. They've lost 8 of 13 SU and are just 2-10-1 ATS during this span. The Pacers have been struggling too, but largely because they've been spending a lot of time on the road. They have won or lost by fewer than 4 points in 6 of their last 7 home games against Eastern Conference opponents, including 4 straight. They've also won or lost by fewer than 4 points in each of their last 11 home games against the Raptors. Grab the points.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Magic +12.5

Bottom Line: Memphis won in Orlando by 10 points Jan. 16 so it will be looking right past the Magic and onto tomorrow night's revenge game at Dallas. The Grizzlies just lost to Dallas Jan. 19 and will be looking for payback. That gives us a good opportunity here. The Magic are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 road games versus teams with a winning home record. The Grizzlies are 5-15-2 ATS in their last 22 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. Orlando is 17-8 ATS as a road underdog this season while Memphis is on a 14-30 ATS slide as a double-digit favorite.

5* WISEGUY NBA LINE MISTAKE OF THE WEEK on Suns +3

Bottom Line: The wrong team is favored here, and the Clippers have been a terrible play as small road chalk. LA is 8-20 ATS as a road favorite of 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons and has lost these games by an average of 2.0 points. Playing against road teams when the line is +3 to -3 in the second half of their schedule following a game where they shot 55% or better, provided it is a matchup of teams that have held opponents to an average of 43.5-45.5% shooting on the season, has resulted in a 22-4 ATS mark since 1996. This system is a perfect 4-0 ATS the last 5 seasons. Additionally, the Suns are 34-19 ATS as an underdog the last 2 seasons and 27-14 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games over the last 3 seasons. Pound Phoenix.

4* MAJOR NBA "TOTAL" DOMINATOR on Knicks/Hornets UNDER 185.5

Bottom Line: Charlotte is a terrific defensive team. It's held 8 of its last 11 opponents to below 40% shooting. However, it allowed Cleveland to shoot 51.7% last night. This team is not happy with that effort and will tighten the screws defensively tonight. The Knicks had been playing exceptional defense over a 3-game stretch and then allowed Orlando to shoot better than 50% last night. They know they'll have to be much better at the defensive end in this one if they're going to avenge back-to-back losses to Charlotte. The under is 4-0 in the Hornets' last 4 home games and 4-0 in their last 4 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. The under is 5-1 in the Knicks' last 6 road games and 4-1 in their last 5 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

4* MAJOR NBA *ODDSMAKER ERROR* on Timberwolves +7

Bottom Line: This is too many points for New Orleans to be laying on the road given its weak 8-16 road record. The Pelicans destroyed Minnesota by 48 at home in the season's first meeting and will be looking right past the Wolves and onto Sunday's showdown with Dallas because of it. You can bet Minnesota hasn't forgotten about that brutal defeat, and it will be out to save face. New Orleans took care of business against the Lakers last time out but is 0-4 ATS in its last 4 games following a win. The home team has enjoyed a nice edge in the series as it is on a 7-0 SU and ATS run. 4 of these were in Minnesota.

4* MAJOR NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Thunder +4.5

Bottom Line: This line in an overreaction to Atlanta's unexpected run. The Thunder are more talented and starting round into shape now that they're healthy. The Thunder are 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 versus the Eastern Conference and 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 versus the NBA Southeast division. The road team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, and the Thunder are 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings in Atlanta.

5* WISEGUY NBA "TOTAL" BLOWOUT on Raptors/76ers OVER 194

Bottom Line: Toronto has had no trouble controlling the pace against poor teams. The Raptors are 12-3 OVER the last 2 seasons versus teams that have a win percentage of 25% or less. We have seen an average of 208.0 total points scored in these games. The OVER is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings between these teams with 6 of the meetings totaling 199 points or more. We've seen an average of 207.6 total points scored in these 7 matchups. Pound the OVER.

4* MAJOR NBA on TNT *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Bulls +6.5

Bottom Line: It's gut check time for the Bulls. Look for them to put forth an outstanding effort tonight in a highly motivated spot. The Bulls haven't lost 3 consecutive games all season. They are 11-5 following a loss and 3-0 following 2 straight losses. They are an impressive 50-33 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games under Tom Thibodeau. Grab the points.

5* WISEGUY NBA WESTERN CONF. GAME OF THE WEEK on T-Wolves +8.5

Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from Dallas following Monday's big win at Memphis. The Mavs have a matchup with Chicago on Friday and are very likely already peeking ahead to that one mentally. It will be hard for Dallas to get up for the lowly T-Wolves, but it won't be hard for Minnesota to get up for this one. It's finally home after a week on the road, and it will be out for revenge for a 131-117 November loss in Dallas. The Mavericks are just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall, 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a losing record and 2-11-1 ATS in their last 14 games versus Western Conference opponents. The Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days, 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600 and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 versus Western Conference foes. Pound Minnesota.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +8.5

Bottom Line: Look for Denver to come storming back at home following last night's brutal 122-79 loss at Golden State. The Nuggets have been a strong play at home in recent seasons against good teams, going 25-12 ATS the last 3 seasons versus teams that are outscoring their opponents by 3.0 PPG or more. Denver has defeated these teams by an average of 3.4 points. The Spurs are off a dominant 89-69 win over Utah, but they are 4-13 ATS in their last 17 games after allowing less than 75 points in their previous game and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a win of more than 10 points. Pound Denver.

5* WISEGUY MLK DAY *BEST BET* on Knicks +7

Bottom Line: The Knicks have been awful, but I'm not hesitating to back them catching a good number in a favorable spot. The Pelicans are on a 10-22 ATS slide as a road favorite. They are off a big upset win in Toronto yesterday but are 0-7 ATS this season when checking in off an upset victory. They have lost these 7 by a whopping 16.3 points on average. New Orleans is also 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. Additionally, home underdogs that are playing for the 3rd time or fewer in a 10-day span are 79-41 ATS since 1996 if they failed to cover the spread last game. Pound NY.

4* MAJOR NBA "TOTAL" DOMINATOR on Thunder/Magic UNDER 211

Bottom Line: Playing the UNDER on any team (OKC) that is off 2 or more consecutive overs has resulted in a 108-60 record the last 5 seasons when they are matched up against a team that is off 4 or more consecutive overs. Additionally, when the total is 210 or higher, playing the UNDER on road teams that are off an upset win of 10 points or more at home has resulted in a 29-7 record since 1996. Lastly, the UNDER is 11-1 in OKCs last 12 games after scoring more than 125 points in its previous game.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Trailblazers +2.5

Bottom Line: Plays on underdogs that are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent that is off 2 or more consecutive road wins has resulted in a 75-34 ATS record the last 5 seasons. The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest and 11-2 ATS the last 3 seasons in Saturday road games. The Grizzlies are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage above 60% and 3-11-1 ATS in their 14 home games against the Blazers.

5* WISEGUY ESPN GAME OF THE MONTH on Thunder +2.5

Bottom Line: It's gut check time for the Thunder, and I expect them to respond. They have been really good at home where they are 4-0 in their last 4 and 9-2 in their last 11. 1 of the 2 losses came by 2 points and the other came in OT so based on this number, the Thunder are 11-0 ATS in their last 11 home games. Now that's a trend I'll gladly get behind. Golden State is 0-2 in its last 2 and 1-3 in its last 4 on the road. Also, since the Super Sonics moved to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder, they are 10-2 at home versus Golden State. Pound OKC.

4* MAJOR *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Raptors +1

Bottom Line: Atlanta is getting too much respect on the road because it has won its last 10 games while going 9-0-1 ATS in these contests. I believe the streak comes to an end tonight as it has not been able to figure out the Raptors. Toronto has won the season's first 2 meetings and is 3-0 in the last 3. The 3 wins came by 10, 7 and 11 points. The Raptors are also 3-0 in their last 3 home games versus the Hawks with the wins coming by 12.7 points on average. The home team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings, and the Hawks are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

4* MAJOR BOUNCE BACK *BLOOD BATH* on Nets +10

Bottom Line: I like the Nets to bounce back strong tonight. They are 11-2 ATS after 2 straight losses of 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons and have won by an average of 8.7 points in this situation.

4* MAJOR NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Thunder +1.5

Bottom Line: The fresher team has a huge advantage, and the Thunder will be the much fresher team tonight. OKC has had the last 5 days off while the Rockets played in Orlando last night and are playing their 13th game in 19 days. They were on the road 6 of their last 8 games, which adds to the fatigue. The Thunder lost by 4 at home when these teams met earlier this season but Westbrook and Durant weren't available for that one. With both active here and with OKC much fresher, I like the Thunder to have their revenge. Playing on teams when the line is +3 to -3 that will be playing just 3 times or less in 10 days and are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent has resulted in a 51-20 ATS record since 1996.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Nuggets -2.5

Bottom Line: This is a favorable spot for Denver, which has had the last 4 days off to rest up and prepare for this contest. The Mavs, meanwhile, are off a tough OT game in Sacramento last night and now head to the thin Denver air with tired legs. The Mavericks are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 versus Western Conference foes and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Nuggets are 30-11 ATS in their last 41 home games versus a team with a winning road record and 27-10-2 ATS in their last 39 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST  BET* on Bulls -5.5

Bottom Line: This game is all about revenge for the Bulls, who were defeated 102-86 at Washington last week. The Bulls are 19-7 ATS when out for revenge for a double-digit defeat since the start of last season. Additionally, playing home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are out for revenge for a double-digit road loss has produced a 121-73 (62.4%) ATS record the last 19 years, provided both teams carry win percentages of 60-75%. Pound Chicago.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Nets +7

Bottom Line: The Grizzlies are being overvalued here considering their road struggles. They are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games and 2-7 ATS in their last 9. The Nets have lost their last 6 but were competitive in all of those until they were dealt a double-digit defeat by Houston last game. However, the Nets are 15-6 ATS in their last 21 games following a loss of more than 10 points.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +8

Bottom Line: The Jazz are being undervalued at home where they have been extremely competitive. They've won or lost by less than 8 points in 7 straight at home. The Warriors haven't played a road game since Christmas so they'll finally be outside their comfort zone. They've lost or won by less than 8 points in each of their last 5 on the road. Pound Utah.

4* MAJOR NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Wizards -1

Bottom Line: The Spurs are off an easy double digit win and cover in Minnesota but are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS win and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points. Washington was kicked by Atlanta last game but is 3-0-1 ATS in its last 4 games following an ATS loss. Additionally, the favorite is 20-5-2 ATS in the last 27 meetings.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Celtics +5

Bottom Line: The Pelicans are off a double-digit win over Memphis while the Celtics are off a double-digit loss to Toronto. However, the Pelicans are 6-13-1 ATS in their last 20 games following a win of more than 10 points while the Celtics are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss of more than 10 points. Additionally, playing against favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have covered the spread in 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, provided they have a win percentage of 45-55% on the season, has resulted in a 66-33 (67%) ATS record over the last 5 seasons. Also, in a game involving teams with +/- 3.0 ppg differential, playing against a favorite off a double-digit win has resulted in a 132-84 (61%) ATS record the last 5 seasons.

5* WISEGUY NBA TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Bucks/Bulls OVER 195

Bottom Line: Milwaukee has finished under the total in 9 straight, which has forced oddsmakers to overadjust the line due to the amount of action the under is getting in Milwaukee games. This provides us with an excellent overs opportunity tonight. Milwaukee's unders run has been directly correlated with how well it has defended, but this will be its 4th game in 5 days and defense is the first thing to go in fatigued spots. The over is 18-6 in the Bulls' last 24 home games, including 5-0 in their last 5 versus teams with a winning road record. The over is 14-4 the last 2 seasons in Milwaukee's games as a road dog of 6.5 to 9 points. We've seen 210.4 total points scored on average in these contests. Pound the over.

5* WISEGUY NBA *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Cavs +12.5

Bottom Line: The Cavs have struggled with LeBron James out nursing injuries, but there is still a ton of talent on the roster, and I expect them to show up against the best team in the NBA with the bright ESPN lights on. Playing against home teams that are outscoring opponents by 9.0 PPG or more on the season has resulted in a 30-9 ATS record the last 5 seasons when they are up against an opponent that allowed 105 points or more last game. Pound Cleveland.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Spurs -5

Bottom Line: The Spurs are off an ugly loss at home to Detroit where they blew an 18-point advantage and even led by 3 points with 10 seconds left and couldn't close the deal. All that actually bodes well for us here. San Antonio is 17-6 ATS off an upset loss at home the last 3 seasons and has won these games by 9.8 points on average.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Thunder -11.5

Bottom Line: Playing against underdogs that beat the spread by more than 24 points in their previous game has resulted in a 26-6 ATS record the last 5 seasons, provided they have a win percentage of 25-40% on the season. Utah upset Chicago on the road in its last game but is 2-11 ATS the last 3 seasons in road games following a road win.

4* MAJOR NBA "Total" DOMINATOR on Hornets/Raptors UNDER 199.5

Bottom Line: Toronto was horrible defensively in its last 2 games and will be looking to tighten the screws here. The Raptors have had the last 3 days off to get fresh and prepare for the Hornets, and I expect them to put forth an outstanding defensive effort tonight. Toronto is 19-7 UNDER since 1996 in home games after allowing 110 points or more 2 straight games. The UNDER is 11-5-1 in the last 17 meetings between these teams in Toronto.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Timberwolves +8.5

Bottom Line: This is a bad spot for Phoenix, which played a hard fought game in Milwaukee last night and has big games against the Spurs and Grizzlies on deck. I don't see the Suns giving the lowly T-Wolves their complete focus. The Suns are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The underdog is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Bet Minnesota.

5* WISEGUY NBA "Total" BLOWOUT on Wizards/Pelicans OVER 200

Bottom Line: These teams have come in under 200 points in each of the last 9 meetings so it's clear the books are begging for action on the under. However, they have good reason for posting such a high number as the Washington defense is really struggling (gave up over 52% shooting in each of its last 3 games) and it's up against a New Orleans team that is averaging over 108 ppg at home. Washington is 17-7 OVER the last 2 seasons in road games after finishing under the total in its last game. The OVER iis 10-4 in the Pelicans' last 14 home games and 11-4 in their last 15 versus the East.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +4

Bottom Line: The Kings will be hungry as they seek revenge for a home loss to Detroit last month. Playing underdogs that are out for revenge for an upset loss at home has resulted in a 33-10 ATS record the last 5 seasons, provided the team they are seeking revenge against is off 2 or more consecutive road wins. Bet Sacramento.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Knicks +3

Bottom Line: Detroit is being overvalued following 3 straight wins. It is just 1-8 ATS as a favorite this season. The Knicks lost ugly to the Blazers and Clippers in their last 2 but are 26-9 ATS off 2 consecutive road losses of 10 points or more since 1996. The Knicks are 8-0 in their last 8 home games versus the Pistons.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Pelicans -1.5

Bottom Line: This is a challenging spot for Phoenix, which will be playing a 3rd road game in 5 days and this one comes after a long cross-country trip from LA. The Suns also have a big revenge game in Oklahoma City tomorrow so they could be peeking ahead to that one. New Orleans has had the last 2 days off so it should be the fresher team. It should also be the hungrier side as it tries to end 4-game losing streak to the Suns. The Pelicans are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning record and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games versus a team with a winning road record.

5* WISEGUY NBA "TOTAL" DOMINATOR on Kings/Nets UNDER 204.5

Bottom Line: Playing the UNDER on a team that has finished over the total in at least its last 2 games has resulted in a 108-58 (65%) record the last 5 seasons if that team is playing an opponent that has finished over the total in at least its last 4 games. Additionally, playing the UNDER on a road team when the total is 200 or higher has resulted in a 72-38 (66%) record since 1996 if the road team averages 102 PPG or more and is playing a team that averages 92-98 PPG, and if the road team allowed 55 points or more in the 1st half in its last 2 games. Pound the UNDER.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +2.5

Bottom Line: Tough spot for Toronto playing without rest in high altitude. The difficulty of this spot is magnified by the fact it is off a big win and has a bigger game on deck. The Nuggets are 29-10 ATS in their last 39 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Denver is 14-4 ATS at home the last 3 seasons versus very good teams that outscore their opponents by 6 PPG or more, and it has defeated these teams by an average of 1.4 points.

4* MAJOR NBA "Total" DOMINATOR on Pacers/Nets UNDER 191

Bottom Line: Lionel Hollins is a defensive-minded coach and can't be happy with yesterday's performance in Boston. The Nets got the win but allowed the Celtics to score 107 points on 51.7% shooting. Hollins has been able to make the proper adjustments and motivate his team following poor defensive game. The Nets are 8-0 under his watch after allowing 105 points or more and are holding opponents to only 94.0 in this spot.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Hornets +6.5

Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from OKC following a big Christmas Day win in San Antonio. The Hornets are playing their best basketball of the season, and they'll be more rested and more prepared for this contest. They are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a win, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus teams with a losing record and 4-0 ATS in their 4 road games. Charlotte is 10-1 ATS in December road games under coach Clifford. Pound the Hornets.

5* WISEGUY CHRISTMAS *BEST BET* on Heat +5.5

Bottom Line: This line is inflated due to a combination of Cleveland's back-to-back blowout wins and covers and Miami's ugly loss to the 76ers. This will be an emotional game for LeBron James as he returns to the place he won 2 Championships. He struggled mightily in the season opener in his return to Cleveland and I believe his emotions will also get the better of him in this one. I also expect a big effort from the Heat as they look to show LeBron that he would have been better off staying in South Beach. At the end of regulation, Cleveland has won by more than 5.5 points in just 3 of 11 road games this season. Miami has been a great bounce-back team this season at 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games following a loss. Pound the Heat.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on T-Wolves +14

Bottom Line: This is a sandwich game of the Cavs, which are off a big blowout win over Memphis and have a Christmas day showdown at Miami on deck. I don't see them giving the lowly T-Wolves their full attention tonight. Playing against home favorites after a game where they shot 60% or better has resulted in a 26-6 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Additionally, Tuesday night double-digit dogs that have a win percentage of 25% or worse on the season are 104-59 ATS since 1996. Pound Minnesota.

5* WISEGUY NBA Pre All-Star Break GAME OF THE YEAR on Rockets -3.5

Bottom Line: This game is all about revenge for the Rockets, who were bounced by Portland in six games in last season's playoffs. What stings even worse is how they lost. It looked like Houston was going to force a Game 7, then Damian Lillard nailed a three-pointer as time expired. You just don't forget losses like that, and this is the first meeting since. Houston will be ready. The Rockets have been a much better play than Portland when facing quality competition. The Rockets are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games versus a team with a winning percentage above 60% while the Blazers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games versus a team with a winning percentage above 60%. The Rockets are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Pound Houston.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on T-Wolves +3

Bottom Line: When the line is +3 to -3, playing a team that has allowed 105 points or more in 2 straight games has resulted in a 28-7 ATS record since 1996, provided their opponent is off a game where 165 points or less were scored. This system is a perfect 4-0 ATS the last 5 seasons. Additionally, teams off 2 straight double-digit defeats are 46-18 ATS the last 5 seasons when they are playing a team that is off a game where both it and its opponent scored 90 points or less. Grab the points.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers +4

Bottom Line: Playing road teams that are out for revenge for a home blowout loss of 20 points or more to an opponent, provided that opponent checks in off a home win, has resulted in a 41-12 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Off a big win over the Clippers last night, Denver will have a tough time getting past a more motivated and better rested Indiana squad. Pound the Pacers.

5* WISEGUY NBA *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Bulls +6.5

Bottom Line: Memphis is being overvalued following back-to-back big wins over Golden State and San Antonio. The Bulls have been outstanding on the road where they are 11-4, and they are an incredible 17-5 ATS in Friday night road game over the last three seasons. Playing underdogs that are outscoring opponents by 3 PPG or more on the season and are matched up against a team that is coming off a close win of 3 points or less has resulted in a 46-21 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Pound the Bulls.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +1.5

Bottom Line: This game is all about revenge for the Nuggets, who were defeated by double digits in Houston Saturday. I expect home court to make the difference as the home team is 6-0 SU and 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings. The Nuggets are 9-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings overall, including 4-0 SU and ATS in the last 4 at home. These 4 wins came by an average of 12.0 points. Pound the Nuggets.

4* MAJOR NBA *PUBLIC MASSACRE* on Pistons +6.5

Bottom Line: The public doesn't want any part of a Pistons team that is 5-20 on the season, but this is a good spot for them. The Mavs played in New York last night while the Pistons had the night off so I expect Detroit to be the fresher side. The Mavs will also be tempted to peak ahead to their next opponents - San Antonio. The Mavericks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU win, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest.

5* WISEGUY NBA WESTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE WEEK on Kings +7.5

Bottom Line: The Kings are 17-4 ATS the last 3 seasons following a stretch of 8 or more losses in a 10-game span. They are also on a 32-16 ATS run as a home underdog of 6.5 to 9.0 points. Playing against favorites in a game involving teams with a +/- 3.0 PPG scoring differential, provide they are off a blowout win of 15 points or more, has resulted in a 73-35 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Pound Sacramento.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Suns -5

Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from Milwaukee as it hits the road following a big upset win over the Clippers. The Bucks are 4-14 ATS off an upset victory over the last 2 seasons, losing by an average of 12.3 points in this spot. The Suns have owned the Bucks at home to the tune of 16-1 since 1997. The Suns have won these games by an average score of 110 to 100. Bet Phoenix.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +11

Bottom Line: Off a big win over the Clippers, it's going to be tough for Washington give the Jazz its full attention. I expect enough of a letdown from the Wizards for Utah to be able to keep this one within a generous number. Double digit dogs off 2 or more consecutive OVERS are 43-15 ATS the last 5 seasons, provided they average 92-98 ppg and are playing a team that allows 92-98 ppg. Additionally, Utah is 11-0 ATS the last 3 seasons in road games after 2 or more consecutive OVERS. Bet the Jazz.

5* WISEGUY NBA *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Wizards +2.5

Bottom Line: The Clippers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games versus teams with a winning percentage above .600 while the Wizards are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games versus teams with a road winning percentage greater than .600. Playing against road favorites that have covered the spread in 4 of their last 5 games, provided they have a win percentage of 75% or better and are playing a winning team, has resulted in a 63-27 (70%) ATS record since 1996. Pound Washington.

4* MAJOR NBA on TNT "Total" DOMINATOR on Cavs/Thunder UNDER 204.5

Bottom Line: The Under is 6-0-1 in Cavaliers' last 7 games when playing on 1 days' rest, 3-0-1 in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400, 5-0-1 in their last 6 versus NBA Northwest opponents and 6-0 in their last 6 games following an ATS loss. The Under is 6-1 in Thunder's last 7 home games and 22-8 in their last 30 overall. The Under is 10-4-1 in the last 15 meetings, including 4-1-1 in the last 6 in OKC.

5* WISEGUY EASTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE WEEK on Hornets -2.5

Bottom Line: The Hornets have the edge at home against a Boston team that has lost 5 of its 1st 7 road games. Charlotte has been resting comfortably at home all month and has had 4 full days to prepare for the Celtics. Boston is playing for the 3rd time in 4 days with its most recent one going to double OT so it will be showing some fatigue. The Celtics have been awful on defense this season, especially on the road where they are giving up 110.3 ppg. They are 15-26 ATS after allowing 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons. The Hornets are 20-8-2 ATS in their last 30 Wednesday games and 18-8 ATS in their last 26 versus NBA Atlantic division foes. Pound Charlotte.

4* MAJOR NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Lakers -2.5

Bottom Line: Sacramento's ball movement has suffered without Cousins in the post, and that has corresponded to losses. The Kings have dropped 4 of 6 since Cousins went down with an illness, and I don't like their chances here. The Lakers are on a 19-4 ATS run versus teams that average 20 or fewer assists per game. The Lakers have won 5 straight at home in the series.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Heat +4.5

Bottom Line: Fatigue will be an issue for Phoenix, which is playing a 4th game in 5 days and went to OT last night in LA. Playing against home teams that have lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games and are playing a 4th game in 5 days has resulted in a 139-86 ATS record since 1996. This system has gone 15-6 ATS the last 3 seasons. Pound the Heat.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers -110

Bottom Line: Tough spot for the Hawks playing a second game of a back-to-back versus a team that has had the last 2 days off. Playing against underdogs that allow 99 ppg or more on the season but have allowed 85 points or less their last 2 games has resulted in a 28-7 ATS record the last 18 seasons, including a perfect 8-0 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Pound the Pacers.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +5.5

Bottom Line: This line is an overreaction to Denver's 30-point loss in Washington combined with Atlanta's 23-point win in Brooklyn. Prior to that, Denver had been playing outstanding basketball, and I expect it to come storming back against a team it's had a great deal of success against. Based on a number of +5.5, the Nuggets are 6-2 SU and 8-0 ATS in their last 8 meetings with Atlanta. Playing against home teams that led by 20 points or more at halftime of their previous game has resulted in a 99-56 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Playing on road teams off a blowout loss of 15 points or more, provided they average 103 ppg or more on the season, has resulted in a 124-71 ATS record the last 18 seasons.

4* MAJOR NBA *BEST BET* on Pelicans +9.5

Bottom Line: Look for the Pelicans to come storming back following Thursday's ugly 27-points loss to Golden State. The Pelicans are 33-16-3 ATS in their last 52 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Clippers have been overvalued at home a lot lately, especially when rested. They are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 home games and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on 2 days' rest. Pound the Pelicans.

5* WISEGUY NBA *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Timberwolves +7

Bottom Line: Look for Houston to get caught looking ahead tonight. The Rockets are prime for a letdown following a win over Memphis and with a tough game against Phoenix on deck tomorrow. They have already defeated the Timberwolves by double-digits this season so they will be thinking they can just show up and win. Minnesota, however, just lost to the worst team in the league, and I'm expecting an inspired effort in the aftermath of that. The Rockets are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games following a SU win, 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following an ATS win, 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 1 days' rest and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a losing record. Pound Minnesota.

4* MAJOR NBA on TNT *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Knicks +7

Bottom Line: Even bad teams tend to get up for national TV spots, and I fully expect the Knicks to get up for LeBron and company tonight. The Knicks are an impressive 15-5 ATS in their last 20 Thursday TNT games. The Cavaliers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. The Cavs have only 1 win of more than 6 points on the road this season. Grab the points.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +4

Bottom Line: This is a difficult spot for Toronto, which is playing its 2nd road game in as many nights and it's 3rd in 4 days. It has a big showdown with Cleveland on deck so it will be easy to peek ahead to that one since it handled Utah easily at home last month. The Jazz will be the fresher team having had yesterday off. They'll also be the more motivated squad as they look to end a 6-game slide and avenge that earlier loss in Toronto. The Raptors are 4-11 ATS in the last 15 meetings. Pound Utah.

4* MAJOR NBA *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Nuggets +3.5

Bottom Line: Denver has lost the season's first 2 meetings with Portland handily, but that was before it started its current 8-2 run. I like the Nuggets to have their revenge tonight at home. The Nuggets are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 home games, 43-21-1 ATS in their last 65 home games versus a team with a winning road record and 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. The underdog is 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

4* MAJOR NBA *SUREFIRE* on Pistons -1.5

Bottom Line: Following a big upset win over Toronto, expect the Lakers to suffer a letdown as they hit the road for the first time since Nov. 21. Detroit has underachieved to this point given the level of talent it has on the roster. After playing 6 straight games against teams with winning records, and losing all 6, the Pistons will be going after a win tonight with all they've got. The home team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Celtics +7.5

Bottom Line: The Hawks are the more rested team having had the last 2 days off while the Celtics just had yesterday off. Fresh legs have done Atlanta no good against the number as it is 6-25 ATS in its last 31 games when playing on 2 days' rest. Boston has shown the ability to score the basketball, and that makes it an attractive dog here. Playing underdogs that average 103 or more ppg that are taking on a team that has scored 100 points or more in 3 straight games has resulted in a 96-45 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Pound Boston.