5* Wiseguy GM2 *BEST BET* on Thunder -5.5

Bottom Line: The Thunder have been an awesome investment when out for revenge for an upset defeat under coach Brooks, going 54-33 ATS in this spot.  In this spot at home the last 2 seasons, they are 17-7 ATS with an average winning margin of 10.9 points.  Teams headed up by coach Rivers are a dismal 36-59 ATS all-time following a road win of 10 points or more.  The Thunder, meanwhile, are 44-26 ATS under Brooks when out for revenge for a loss of 10 points or more.  Pound OKC.

4* Major GM2 *SUREFIRE* on Pacers -4.5

Bottom Line: Even though the Pacers lost Game 1 of this series, I'm not going to jump ship when they're on their home floor.  The home team is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings, and the Pacers are 12-1 in the last 13 home meetings.  In terms of the spread, the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings, and the Pacers are 9-4 ATS in the last 13 home meetings.  The Pacers were outrebounded 65-46, and I don't see that happening again.  They had won the rebounding battle in each of the previous 7 matchups.  Bet the Pacers.

4* Major "Total" DOMINATOR on Wizards/Pacers UNDER 215

Bottom Line: The UNDER is 29-11 in Indiana's games this season when the total is between 180 and 189.5 points, including 16-6 at home.  The Pacers are 12-3 UNDER this season at home when the total is between 185 and 189.5 points, and we have seen just 179.0 total points scored on average in these 15 contests.  Bet the UNDER.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Heat -7

Bottom Line: Despite losing each of the 4 regular-season meetings with Brooklyn, Miami is laying quite a few points.  That's because Miami will be extremely fresh following a week off and highly focused as it looks to make a statement to Brooklyn that the playoffs are a different animal.  This line is significant because favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are out for revenge for 2 straight losses to an opponent are 54-27 ATS the last 18 seasons if they are up against a team that is off an upset win over a division foe.  Additionally, favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are off 2 consecutive wins against a division foe are 39-16 ATS the last 5 seasons.  After a grueling 7-game series, the Nets will run out of gas in the second half.  Pound Miami.

4* Major GM1 "Total" BAILOUT on Clippers/Thunder UNDER 213

Bottom Line: Playing the UNDER when the total is greater than or equal to 200 on all teams that are out for revenge for an upset loss to an opponent has resulted in a 34-12 record the last 5 seasons if the matchup features teams with winning percentages of 60-75%.  We've seen an average line of 209.6 in these contests but only 199.6 total points scored on average.  We saw just 208 total points scored the last time these teams met so this line is being influenced by the recent scoring outputs of each team.  But consider that OKC is 12-2 UNDER the last 2 seasons after scoring 120 points or more and the Clippers are 4-1 UNDER in their last 5 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.

5* Wiseguy GM1 *BEST BET* on Pacers -4

Bottom Line: Home court has been huge when these teams get together.  The home team is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings with each of the wins coming by at least 8 points.  Home court has especially been huge for the Pacers when facing the Wizards.  Indiana is 12-0 in its last 12 at home versus Washington with all 12 wins coming by at least 4 points.  Pound the Pacers.

4* Major "Total" Dominator on Mavs/Spurs UNDER 198

Bottom Line: Not much defense was played in Game 6 as both teams shot over 50% from the field.  That will change here.  In Game 1, when both teams were trying to establish themselves in the series, neither shot better than 43.2% and only 175 total points were scored.  I expect buckets to be tough to come by in this one as well with a place in the 2nd round at stake.  Playing the UNDER on road teams that are off an upset win over a division rival, provided they are a winning team playing another winning team and the total line is 190-199.5, has resulted in a 31-9 record since 1996.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Spurs -6

Bottom Line: Look for San Antonio to take care of business at home in Game 7.  The Spurs are 9-1 in their last 10 home games versus the Mavs with the wins coming by an average of 14.3 points.  The Spurs are 23-12 ATS off an upset loss over the last 2 seasons, winning by an average of 10.0 points in this spot.  They are also 64-46 ATS in home playoff games under coach Popovich, winning these games by an average of 7.0 points.  Pound the Spurs.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Grizzlies +8

Bottom Line: I believe odds makers aren't giving enough respect to a Memphis team that held Oklahoma City to 39.8% shooting or worse in Games 2-5.  Each of those 4 games went to OT, and I'm expecting another tight game with a place in the Western Conference Semis on the line.  Memphis has won or lost by fewer than 8 points in 12 of its last 16 versus the Thunder.  The Grizz are 14-6 ATS following a loss, 5-1 ATS following a loss of more than 10 points, 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 first-round playoff games and 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 at OKC.  The Thunder are just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games following a win of more than 10 points and 1-3-1 in their last 4 in this series.  Pound Memphis.

4* Major NBA Playoffs *BLOOD BATH* on Nets -4.5

Bottom Line: At home, where they have won 17 of their last 20 (17 wins came by 10.9 points on average), I expect the Nets to extend this series.  The Nets are an impressive 11-2-1 ATS in their last 14 games versus teams that have a winning record.  Additionally, they have thrived in highly motivated spots such as this one.  When at home and out for revenge for two straight losses to an opponent, they are 9-1 ATS this season with an average margin of victory of 8.0 points.  This is the type of game where having experienced winners like Paul Piece and Kevin Garnett really pays off. Bet the Nets.

5* Wiseguy NBA "Total" DOMINATOR on Raptors/Nets UNDER 191

Bottom Line: Following their worst defensive performance of the series and staring elimination in the face, the Nets will put the clamps on defensively tonight.  The Nets needed to speed up the pace in Game 5 and look for three-point opportunities because these faced a huge deficit.  These two teams combined for 69 points from beyond the arc in the game.  They hadn't combined for more than 42 points from three in any of the other games of the series.  Both prior games played in Brooklyn in the series were played at a very slow pace, and we saw just 166 total points scored in Game 4.  We saw 200 total points scored in Game 3 despite the slow pace, but neither team was getting after it defensively the way they will in this elimination game.  The UNDER is 6-0 in the Nets' last 6 games after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.  Toronto is 10-1 UNDER after a close win of 3 points or less over the last 2 seasons.  We have seen only 187.3 total points scored on average in these 11 games.  Pound the UNDER.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Warriors +1.5

Bottom Line: Home court has been too big to ignore when these teams get together.  The home team is 10-2 in the last 12 meetings with the 10 wins coming by an average of 17 points.  Golden State is 16-3 in its last 19 home games versus the Clippers, including 6-1 in its last 7.  Combine the 10-2 series home trend and the 16-3 Warriors home trend, and we have a convincing 26-5 trend in our favor.  Additionally, Golden State is 30-15 ATS under coach Mark Jackson after a loss of 10 points or more, including 8-1 ATS in this spot this season with an average winning margin of 15.9 points.  Pound the Warriors.

4* Major GM6 *SUREFIRE* on Thunder -2.5

Bottom Line: The Grizzlies are just 4-10-2 ATS in their last 16 games following a win.  The Thunder are 14-3 ATS the last 3 seasons after a close loss of 3 points or less, bouncing back to win by an average of 9.9 points.  Road favorites that are off a home loss and are out for revenge for an upset loss to an opponent are 122-75 ATS since 1996.  I expect the Thunder to dig down deep to force a Game 7.

4* Major "Total" DOMINATOR on Hawks/Pacers UNDER 187

Bottom Line: After allowing Atlanta to shoot 50% in Game 5 and with their playoff lives on the line, I expect the Pacers to bring the "D".  The Pacers are 27-10 UNDER when the total is between 180 and 189.5 points this season.  They are 56-28 UNDER when out for revenge for a home loss of 10 points or more since 1996. The Hawks are 31-10 UNDER in home playoff games since 1996.  The UNDER is 6-0 in the Hawks' last 6 home games and 5-0 in the last 5 meetings between these teams in Atlanta.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Rockets -5

Bottom Line: Despite losing the 1st 2 games of the series at home, Houston is still 19-5 in its last 24 on this floor versus the Blazers.  That's too much history to go against, especially in a game where the Rockets will be playing for their playoff lives.  The Blazers have been a poor investment in the postseason, especially when on the road following a win (they are on a 9-21-2 ATS slide in that spot).  They are 2-9-1 ATS in their last 12 postseason games overall.  Bet the Rockets.

5* Wiseguy NBA "Total" DOMINATOR on Blazers/Rockets UNDER 214

Bottom Line: Playing the UNDER when the total is greater than or equal to 210 on all teams that have allowed 100 points or more in 3 straight games has resulted in a 31-12 record the last 5 seasons if they are taking on an opponent that scored 105 points or more last game.  Playing the UNDER when the total is greater than or equal to 200 on home teams that are out for revenge for a loss to an opponent has resulted in a 40-15 record the last 5 seasons if the opponent is off a home win of 3 points or less.  Playing the UNDER when the total is greater than or equal to 200 on road teams that are off a home win of 3 points or less and are playing only their 2nd game in 5 days has resulted in a 25-7 record the last 5 seasons.  Game 4 should have finished under the total as only 212 total points were scored prior to OT.  Even with OT, these teams combined for only 175 shots so the pace slowed considerably since Game 3 when they combined for 195 shots.  Pound the UNDER as I expect the defensive intensity to pick up in this elimination game.

5* Wiseguy NBA Western Conference Playoffs Game of the Week on Clippers -5.5

Bottom Line: The Clippers have been dealing with some off-court issues surrounding the team owner.  However, Sunday's 21-point defeat assures us they will be extremely focused and motivated tonight.  The Clippers are an impressive 19-7 ATS following a loss this season, bouncing back to win by an average of 9.8 points in these contests.  They are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games directly following a defeat of more than 10 points.  They are also 13-2 ATS on the season following an upset loss and have responded to win by an average of 13.1 points in this spot.  Teams out for revenge for a road loss of 20 points or more that are off an upset loss of 15 points or more are 38-13 ATS the last 18 seasons.  Pound LA.

4* Major "Total" Dominator on Wizards/Bulls UNDER 184

Bottom Line: These two teams have finished over the total in each of the previous four games of the series, and the UNDER is showing some serious value as a result.  Playing the UNDER on any team after 2 or more consecutive overs that is playing against an opponent that checks in off 5 or more consecutive overs has resulted in a 66-31 record the last 5 seasons.  The Bulls are 31-19 UNDER when the total is 180-189.5 this season, including 18-7 at home when this is the case.  An average of 179.5 total points were scored in these 25 home games so I'm not hesitating to take the UNDER here.

5* Wiseguy NBA Western Conference Playoffs Total of the Year on Spurs/Mavs UNDER 203

Bottom Line: Playing the UNDER on all teams (Dallas in this case) when the total is greater than or equal to 200 has resulted in a 76-33 record the last 5 seasons if they have a winning percentage of 51-60% and are playing a team that has a winning record.  If the team you're playing the UNDER on in the previous situation is at home and the total is between 200-209.5, this system tightens up to 35-12.  Additionally, when the total is greater than or equal to 200, playing the UNDER on all teams that have lost 4 of their last 5 games (San Antonio) has resulted in a 31-12 record the last 5 seasons if they are a winning team playing another winning team.  Lastly, playing the UNDER on all teams when the total is greater than or equal to 200 (San Antonio) that are out for revenge for a road loss to an opponent that is off a close home win of 3 points or less has resulted in a 43-20 record the last 5 seasons.  Pound the UNDER.

4* Major NBA *ODDSMAKER ERROR* on Pacers -6.5

Bottom Line: The Pacers have really tightened the screws defensively, and that bodes extremely well for us as the series shifts back to Indy.  The Pacers are 9-1 ATS in home games the last 2 seasons after 2 straight games of holding foes to 39% shooting or worse.  It has won by an average of 16.8 points in this spot.  The Pacers won 101-85 in their last home game in the series despite Atlanta draining 10 3-pointers, and I expect another double-digit win from the top seed in the East.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Bobcats +7.5

Bottom Line: The Heat will be looking to close out Charlotte tonight, but the Bobcats won't go down without a fight.  I expect them to give Miami all it wants and to keep this one within the generous number.  The Heat are just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games while the Bobcats are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 home games.  The Heat are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a cover and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points.  The Bobcats are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points.

4* Major NBA "Total" BAILOUT on Blazers/Rockets UNDER 215

Bottom Line: If the total line is greater than or equal to 210, Playing the UNDER on all teams, Houston in this case, that have allowed 110 points or more in 3 straight games and are up against an opponent that scored 105 points or more last game has resulted in a 31-11 record the last 5 seasons.  We've seen just 207.7 total points scored on average in this situation.

5* Wiseguy NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs 1st Round TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Raptors/Nets UNDER 192

Bottom Line: I'm pounding the UNDER here as these teams fit into an extremely profitable postseason totals system.  When the total is between 190 and 199.5, playing the UNDER on all teams in the 4th game of a 1st round NBA playoff series has resulted in a 44-14 record since 1996.  We have seen only 185.9 total points scored on average in these games.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Warriors +2

Bottom Line: Look for Golden State to even the series this afternoon.  The Warriors are 8-0 ATS in home games played in the 2nd half of the season versus teams with a winning percentage of 60-70% the last 2 seasons, and they have defeated these teams by 9.5 points on average.  Additionally, when the line is +3 to -3, home teams off a home loss in a game involving teams with win percentages of 60-70% are 46-19 ATS since 1996.  The home team is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings, and the Clippers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 at Golden State.

4* Major "Total" DOMINATOR on Wizards/Bulls UNDER 183.5

Bottom Line: The first 3 games of this series have easily gone over but that changes here.  This game means a lot for both teams and the defensive intensity will kick up a notch as a result.  Playing the UNDER on any team, Chicago in this case, after 2 or more consecutive overs that is up against an opponent that is off 5 or more consecutive overs has resulted in a 42-15 record the last 5 seasons.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Thunder -3

Bottom Line: I'll back the Thunder in this highly motivated spot.  After losing 2 straight to the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last year, the Thunder will be out for blood tonight.  Since coach Brooks took over, OKC is 54-32 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games, 47-27 ATS after 2 or more consecutive losses, 50-32 ATS when out for revenge for 2 straight losses to an opponent and 53-33 ATS when out for revenge for an upset loss to an opponent.

5* Wiseguy Saturday NBA Playoffs *BEST BET* on Spurs -3.5

Bottom Line: The Spurs will come storming back following a poor performance in Game 2.  The Spurs are 7-0 ATS this season in road games following an upset loss.  They have won these games by 12.0 points on average.  The Spurs are also 7-0 ATS this season in road games versus teams with a win percentage of 51% to 60%.  They have won these games by an average of 13.2 points.  The Mavericks are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games following a win of more than 10 points,  0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games versus a team with a winning road record.  The Spurs are 4-0 SU and ATS in their last 4 in Dallas, winning these by an average of 12.3 points.  And, the road team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.  Pound San Antonio.

4* Major GM4 *SUREFIRE* on Pacers -2

Bottom Line: The Pacers responded following a loss in Game 1, and I expect a similar response this afternoon.  The Hawks are just 15-30 ATS in home games following 1 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons and 7-18 ATS in home games off a home win the last 2 seasons.  The Pacers are 39-26 ATS off 1 or more consecutive losses the last 2 seasons and 30-17 ATS off a road loss the last 2 seasons.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Rockets +3

Bottom Line: Houston won't go quietly into the night.  It has won or lost by fewer than 3 points in 6 of its last 7 visits to Portland, and I expect this trend to continue.  The Rockets are 5-1-1 ATS in these 7 visits, and the road team is 8-3-1 ATS in the last 12 meetings.  Additionally, Portland is 0-8 ATS in home games after playing 2 consecutive games as a road underdog under coach Terry Stotts.  It has lost by an average of 9.0 points in this situation.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls +3

Bottom Line: The Bulls have the heart of a champion, and they aren't about to fold down 0-2.  Chicago is a reliable 25-16 ATS this season when out for revenge for a loss.  It is also an impressive 117-81 ATS in road games when playing with double revenge since 1996.  Furthermore, the Bulls are 37-22 ATS as a road dog of 6 points or less under Tom Thibodeau.  Washington is on an 11-25 ATS slide off 2 or more consecutive road wins.  Teams headed up by Randy Witman are just 46-72 ATS as a home favorite, including 27-51 ATS as a home fave of 6.0 points or more.  His teams are also just 5-16 ATS in home games following a close win of 3 points or less.  The underdog is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings.  Pound Chicago.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Warriors +2

Bottom Line: The home team has dominated this matchup going 10-3 in the last 13.  The Clippers suffered each of the 3 home losses during this streak.  The Warriors are 5-0 at home during this streak with an average winning margin of 11.2 points.  Golden State was brutally embarrassed in Game 2 and will be playing with a big chip on its shoulder tonight as a result.  The Warriors are 29-15 ATS after a loss of more than 10 points under coach Jackson, including 12-2 ATS in their last 16 games after a loss of more than 10 points.  Pound Golden State.

4* Major NBA "Total" DOMINATOR Clippers/Warriors UNDER 215

Bottom Line: First off, playing the UNDER on any team off 2 or more consecutive overs that is matched up against an opponent off 5 or more consecutive overs has resulted in a 40-14 (74%) record the last 3 seasons.  Secondly, playing the UNDER on all teams in the 3rd game of a 1st round playoff series has resulted in a 40-12 (77%) record since 1996, provided the total is 200.0 or higher.  Lastly, playing the UNDER on road teams that are off a victory of 15 points or more and are going against a team off a defeat of 15 points or more has resulted in a 34-10 (77%) record the last 5 seasons, provided the total is 200.0 or higher.  With Golden State looking to bounce back from a terrible Game 2 and L.A. looking to regain home-court, I expect the screws to tighten defensively in Game 3.  This one stays UNDER as a result.

4* Major NBA "Total" LINE MISTAKE on Thunder/Grizzlies UNDER 189

Bottom Line: OKC doesn't get enough credit for what it is capable of doing defensively.  The Thunder rank No. 3 in field goal percentage defense, and I expect to see a strong defensive effort from them tonight after allowing Memphis to shoot nearly 50% in Game 2.  The Thunder are 6-2 UNDER in their last 8 games following a loss, 9-3 UNDER in their last 12 games after giving up 100 points or more, 6-2 UNDER in their last 8 1st round playoff games and 29-10 UNDER in their last 39 games on 2 days' rest.  The Grizzlies will look to slow down the pace, knowing its chances of winning suffer greatly when they let OKC get out in transition.  With OKC turning up the heat defensively and Memphis looking to play in the half court, we have ourselves a solid UNDERS situation.

5* Wiseguy GM2 *BEST BET* Bailout on Rockets -6

Bottom Line: Look for the Rockets to come storming back in Game 2.  A lot went right for Portland to win Game 1 (Harden shot 8 for 28 while Aldridge shot 17 for 31), but it still needed OT to get the job done.  Despite the loss, Houston is laying as much as 1-point more (depending on the book) than it did in Game 1.  This tells me oddsmakers expect to see a much different Houston squad here.  Aldridge won't play as well as he did in Game 1, and Harden won't shoot as badly.  I'm very confident the Rockets won't shoot as poorly collectively (only 41% in Game 1) because the Blazers allow 45% shooting on the season.  Houston has quietly had a good season defensively, especially at home where it is allowing just 42.9% shooting.  In the second half of the season, playing against underdogs that are off 2 or more consecutive overs in a game involving two teams that allow 102 ppg or more has resulted in a 63-32 ATS record since 1996.  Teams fitting this scenario have been underdogs of 6.7 points on average and have lost by an average of 10.3.  Pound Houston.

5* Wiseguy Eastern Conference 1st Round Game of the Year on Bulls -5

Bottom Line: The defense wasn't there for Chicago in Game 1 as it allowed the Wizards to score 102 points on 48.6% shooting.  Recent history tells us the defense will be there for the Bulls tonight.  Chicago is 8-0 ATS in its last 8 games after giving up 100 points or more in its previous game.  The last 7 of these covers were also straight up wins by an average of 12.9 points.  Pound the Bulls as they tighten the screws defensively and bounce back strong.

5* Wiseguy NBA Western Conference First Round Game of the Year on Clippers -7.5

Bottom Line: Playing favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that average 102 ppg or more has resulted in a 52-22 ATS record since 1996 if they have combined with their opponents to score 205 points or more in 4 straight games and are up against a team that allows 98-102 ppg.  If the contest takes place 42 games or later into the season, this system explodes to 35-10 ATS.  Since Doc Rivers came to town the Clippers are an impressive 18-7 ATS after 1 or more consecutive losses, and they have won by an average of 8.5 points in this situation.  They are also 13-3 ATS under Rivers when out for revenge for an upset defeat and have won in this situation by an average of 11.3 points.  Pound the Clippers.

4* Major NBA *BLOOD BATH* on Grizzlies +7

Bottom Line: I'll grab the points with the Grizz in this bounce-back situation.  OKC couldn't have gotten off to a better start in Game 1, and Memphis couldn't have gotten off to a worse start.  Despite trailing by 25 points just before the half, Memphis cut the deficit to four points and won the 2nd half by 8 points.  That does a ton for its confidence heading into this one.   I expect to see the defensive effort we saw from Memphis in the 3rd quarter from the jump tonight.  The Grizzlies are on a 41-23 ATS run in road games when out for revenge for two straight losses to an opponent that scored 100 points or more both times.  The Thunder are 9-21 ATS in the 2nd half of the season the last 3 seasons versus teams with a win percentage of 60-70%.  Memphis has won or lost by fewer than 7 points in 8 of their last 11 meetings. 

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Trailblazers +5.5

Bottom Line: Underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are playing 4 games or less in 10 days and are off at least 2 consecutive home wins are 53-28 ATS the last 5 seasons.  Portland has quietly been a terrific road investment all season, going 25-16 ATS overall and 4-0 ATS in its last 4.  The Rockets won the season series 3-1, but Portland took them to OT in Houston the last time these two met.  The Blazers are 20-9 ATS this season when out for revenge for a loss where they allowed 100 points or more.  The Rockets are just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games versus a team with a winning record, and the underdog is 11-5-1 ATS in the last 17 meetings.  Pound Portland, which enters the playoffs in better form.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Thunder -7

Bottom Line: I expect to see a very hungry OKC squad tonight.  Memphis sent the Thunder home early in last year's playoffs and that series loss will be all the fuel the Thunder need.  The Grizzlies didn't have to deal with Westbrook in last year's series, but they will tonight, and they weren't able to handle him defensively while losing the 2 games he played against them this season.  The Grizz don't do a very good job of getting to the charity, and that's an issue because OKC does.  The Thunder are 13-3 ATS this season versus teams like Memphis that attempt 21 or fewer free throws per game.  They have defeated such teams by an average of 12.2 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers -7.5

Bottom Line: Defense wins in the NBA Playoffs, and Indiana is arguably the best defensive team in the NBA.  It has allowed just 88 ppg at home this season while the Hawks have allowed 104.4 ppg on the road.  The Pacers held the Hawks to 90.3 points while averaging 108.7 in 3 home wins in last season's playoff series.  Indiana might have entered the playoffs overconfident, but it struggled down the stretch of the regular season and lost badly on this floor to the Hawks just under 2 weeks ago.  The Pacers will be highly motivation to crush the Hawks and any upset aspirations in Game 1 as a result.  The favorite is 25-9-1 ATS in the last 35 meetings.  Pound the Pacers.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Clippers -7

Bottom Line: The Clippers were knocked out of the playoffs in the 1st round last year after winning the first 2 games of their series with Memphis.  The harsh memory of that crushing series loss is all the motivation they'll need when they hit the floor this afternoon.  Home court has been huge in this series.  The home team is 7-0 in the last 7 meetings with an average margin of victory of 14.1 points.  The Clippers home wins during this stretch have come by an average of 16.7 points.  In games played 42 games or more into the season, favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that average 102 ppg or more and have combined with their opponents for 205 points or more in their last 4 games are 35-9 ATS since 1996 if they are matched up against a team that allows 98-102 ppg.  Teams fitting this scenario have been favored by 6.7 points on average but have won by 12.5.

4* Major NBA “Total” Dominator on Nuggets/Clippers OVER 219

Bottom Line: Playing the OVER when the total is 210 or higher on teams that are off a blowout win of 15 points or more has resulted in a 32-19 record the last 5 seasons if they are up against a team that has scored 100 points or more in 4 straight games.  The Clippers do an excellent job of getting to the foul line and make their free throws at a nice clip (72.9%).  This is important to note because Denver is 15-3 OVER the last 2 seasons versus team that attempt 27 free throws per game or more.  We’ve seen 225.6 total points scored on average in these games.  Both teams are well rested, and the Clippers are especially well rested because they’ve been at home since April 3.  This is also important because the Clippers are 8-0 OVER in home games after playing 3 consecutive home games over the last 2 seasons.  We have seen an average of 223 total points scored in these games.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Suns -2.5
Bottom Line: I expect the Suns to stay in the playoff hunt with a win over the Grizzlies tonight. When the line is +3 to -3, home teams off 2 or more consecutive road losses are 65-32 ATS since 1996 if they have a win percentage of 51-60% and are playing a winning team. This system is a perfect 1-0 ATS this season. The Suns are 7-1 ATS this season as a favorite of 2.5 points or less, including 3-0 ATS in the role at home. The Grizzlies are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. Pound the Suns.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers -1
Bottom Line: I'll lay this small number with a motivated Indiana squad that is 34-6 at home. The Pacers are still in the running for home court in the East while the Thunder have already secured the two-seed in the West and can't catch San Antonio. Additionally, OKC pounded the Pacers back in December so this game will be about payback. The Thunder are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. They are also 8-20 ATS in the 2nd half of the season the last 3 seasons against teams with a win percentage of 60-70%. Indiana is 22-11 ATS the last 2 seasons in home games after 1 or more consecutive losses. The Pacers have won by an average of 10.3 points in this spot. The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Pound the Pacers.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Blowout on Cavs -8
Bottom Line: Cleveland will be out to wash the sour taste of last night's loss in Milwaukee out of its mouth. It will also be out to make sure it doesn't get swept by Boston. Playing home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are off an upset loss and playing a 3rd game in 4 days are 67-40 ATS the last 5 seasons. Boston has been awful on the road where it is 8-31 on the season and has lost 13 straight. It's even 12-24 ATS in road games against teams with losing records over the last 2 seasons. Pound the Cavs.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Celtics +4.5
Bottom Line: This is a letdown spot for the Bobcats, who are coming off a very satisfying overtime win against Washington that moved them into a tie with the Wizards for 6th in the East and gave them the tiebreaker over the Wizards. Even though Boston won the last meeting between these teams, that was clear back in November, and this fatigued Bobcats squad will be looking to coast tonight. Charlotte has seen 4 of its last 7 games go to overtime, including its last 2. Boston isn't rolling over. It blew a 9-point lead with 5:44 remaining in Wednesday's 105-97 defeat to Atlanta and was outscored 30-16 over the last 12 minutes in its previous defeat, 115-111 to Detroit on Saturday. Those losses are not sitting well, and the Celtics will be motivated not to lose a 10th straight. I believe Rondo will be the key as he has given Kemba Walker fits in 4 previous head-to-head meetings. The Celtics won all 4. Home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have failed to cover 4 of their last 5 are 68-37 ATS since 1996 when they are matched up against a team that has covered 6 or 7 of their last 8. This system is 26-7 ATS the last 5 seasons. Pound Boston.

5* Wiseguy *BEST BET* Bailout on Warriors -10.5
Bottom Line: Denver spent itself in last night's win over Houston, and it won't have enough left in the tank to keep the score respectable versus a Golden State team that has had the last 3 days off. The Warriors also have a big motivational edge as they were defeated 123-116 at home the last time they faced Denver. They'll be out to avenge that loss as well as take a big step toward locking up the No. 6 seed. The Nuggets are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games playing without a day of rest and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Nuggets are 1-7 ATS in the last 8 meetings and 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings at Golden State. Pound the Warriors.

4* Major *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Spurs +2
Bottom Line: Likely no Parker or Ginobli tonight, but I don't believe it will matter. The Spurs are much more than the Big 3 these days, and they'll be hungry following a bad showing in Minnesota. The Spurs are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following an ATS loss and 23-9-1 ATS in their last 33 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Mavs handed Utah a 12-point defeat last time out, but they are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a win of more than 10 points. They are also 3-11 ATS in their last 14 versus the Spurs, including 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home meetings in the series. Playing against home teams that are playing with double revenge has resulted in a 71-37 ATS record the last 5 seasons when they are up against a team that is off an upset loss on the road.

4* Major NBA *UNDERDOG SHOCKER* on Magic +5.5
Bottom Line: The Magic have an excellent chance to knock off a Nets squad that is in a letdown situation following last night's big win over the Heat. Orlando has a better home record that Brooklyn has on the road, and the Magic are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games versus a team with a losing road record. They are also 9-1 ATS as a home underdog of 3.5 to 6 points this season, winning these games by an average of 4.8 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA Game of the Week on Wizards -5
Bottom Line: The Wizards blew a 16-point halftime lead in their recent 100-94 loss at Charlotte, and they'll be out for some serious revenge as a result. The Wizards are 48-26 ATS under coach Wittman when out for revenge for a loss where they allowed 100 or more points, including 19-5 ATS in this situation this season. Pound the Wizards as they have their revenge in impressive fashion.

4* Major *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Heat -7
Bottom Line: Miami has lost all 3 prior meetings with the Nets this season and will be out for blood tonight as a result. Home teams that are out for revenge for at least 2 consecutive upset losses to an opponent are 18-4 ATS the last 3 seasons if they are also off a home win. Additionally, the Nets haven't been the same team on the road where they are 0-4 ATS in their last 4.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pistons +7
Bottom Line: In a game taking place at least 42 games into the season, playing against home favorites that led their previous game by 20 points or more at the half has resulted in a 23-3 ATS record since 1996 if the game involves teams that average 98-102 ppg. Additionally, road teams that give up 103 ppg or more and trailed by 10 points or more at the half in their last 2 games are 86-34 ATS since 1996. This system is a perfect 11-0 ATS this season. The Hawks are being overvalued following their big win in Indiana. Pound the Pistons.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +6.5
Bottom Line: Dallas is being overvalued in this one because it has won its last 4 on the road. Its last 2 wins over the Kings have come by just 4 and 3 points. The Kings will be looking to avoid the season sweep as well as save face following an embarrassing 102-69 loss at Golden State. The Mavs are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Kings are 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss. The underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Pound Sacramento.

5* Wiseguy NBA Game of the Week on Cavs -3
Bottom Line: We rode the following system I'm about to unveil to a big win on the Rockets last night, and I'm going to ride it again here. When the line is +3 to -3, home teams playing with triple revenge are 69-35 ATS since 1996 when they are matched up against a team off 2 consecutive covers as a favorite. This system is 13-3 ATS the last 3 seasons. Cleveland is still in the playoff hunt, and I expect maximum effort from it tonight after a humiliating performance in Atlanta last night. Additionally, they will be out to make sure they aren't swept by Charlotte. Cleveland has won 14 of its last 16 at home against the Bobcats. Pound the Cavs.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* (ESPN) on Rockets -2.5
Bottom Line: Not only have the Rockets lost their last 3 games, they've lost all 3 meetings with the Thunder this season. They'll be out for blood here as a result. When the line is +3 to -3, home teams playing with triple revenge are 68-35 ATS since 1996 when they are matched up against a team off two consecutive covers as a favorite. This system is 12-3 ATS the last 3 seasons. Additionally, Houston is 18-3 ATS under coach McHale in home games after failing to cover in 4 or 5 of their last 6. The Rockets have won by an average of 15.0 points in this spot. Pound Houston.

4* Major NBA Oddsmaker Error on Bucks +11.5
Bottom Line: Playing against Friday favorites of 10 points or more that have won 3 consecutive games or more has resulted in a 36-16 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Additionally, playing on Friday double-digit underdogs off a double-digit loss on the road has resulted in a 40-18 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Chicago is a soft 8-18 ATS as a home favorite of 6.5 to 12 points over the last 2 seasons. The Bucks are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 road games and 7-1 ATS in their last 8 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The underdog is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA on TNT *BEST BET* Bailout on Mavs +4.5
Bottom Line: Not only will Dallas be motivated by losses in each of the season's first 3 battles, but it will also be motivated by a loss to Golden State last game as well as the tight playoff race it finds itself in. The Mavs should have more legs having had yesterday off. LA used a lot of energy in last night's late comeback in Phoenix. Dallas is 27-13 ATS under coach Carlisle in road games when playing against a top-level team (Win Pct. > 70%). Pound Dallas.

4* Major NBA on TNT *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Thunder -3.5
Bottom Line: Playing against road dogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent has resulted in a 33-12 ATS record since 1996 if they enter off a cover as a double-digit favorite. The Spurs are the hottest team in the league, but OKC has been their kryptonite. The Thunder are 4-0 SU and ATS in the last 4 meetings overall and 6-0 SU and ATS in the last 6 home meetings. OKC has been off since Sunday while the Spurs are playing the 2nd game of a back-to-back and a 5th game in 7 days.

5* Wiseguy NBA Western Conference Game of the Week on Suns -2.5
Bottom Line: Phoenix needs this game more than LA, and it will be out for blood following Sunday's humiliating loss to the Lakers. Explosive offensive teams like Phoenix that average 103.0 ppg or more are 147-79 ATS since 1996 if they trailed in their previous game by 15 or more points at the half. The Suns are a trustworthy 23-9 ATS in their last 32 games following a loss and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 home games against the Clippers. Pound the Suns.

4* Major Eastern Conference *SUREFIRE* on Hawks +2.5
Bottom Line: Playing on all teams when the line is +3 to -3 that are out for revenge for 3 straight losses to an opponent has resulted in a 76-39 ATS record since 1996 if the opponent checks in off 2 consecutive covers as a favorite. The Bulls are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a cover and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points.

4* Major NBA "Total" Dominator on Warriors/Mavs OVER 204
Bottom Line: The fact Dallas has lost the last 2 meetings bodes extremely well for us. The Mavs are 7-0 "Over" this season in home games when playing with double revenge. We have seen an average of 219.2 total points scored in these contests.

5* Wiseguy NBA "Total" Blowout on Rockets/Nets UNDER 210
Bottom Line: This line opened at 208 but has been bet up to 210 in some places creating even more value. Because of where the line opened the following system applies. Playing the "Under" on home teams when the total is 200-209.5 has resulted in a 50-16 record the last 5 seasons, provided they have gone over the total by 48 or more points in their last ten games and have won between 51% and 60% of their games on the season. We have seen just 198.3 total points scored on average in this situation. Pound the UNDER.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Nuggets +4.5
Bottom Line: It will be very difficult for Memphis to cover this number. The Grizzlies are playing their 2nd road game in as many days, and 3rd in 4 days, and to make matters worse are playing in altitude where fatigue sets in faster. The Nuggets have had the last 2 days off so they carry a sizable advantage in terms of fresh legs. Underdogs that average 103.0 ppg or more are 62-30 ATS since 1996 is they trailed in their previous game by 15 or more points at the half.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on T-Wolves +2.5
Bottom Line: Minnesota has lost 8 straight to the Clippers but has been very close to ending the skid this season. The T-Wolves haven't lost by more than 4 points in any of the season's 3 meetings with one of the losses coming by 2 points and the other coming in OT. With this in mind, I think we are getting a good number, especially since Blake Griffin is doubtful. The T-Wolves fell by double digits in Brooklyn yesterday but are 35-16 ATS in their last 51 games following a loss of more than 10 points. They are also 7-1 ATS in their last 8 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. Pound Minnesota.

4* Major NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Pacers +4.5
Bottom Line: Home underdogs off an upset loss are 46-19 ATS since 1996 if they have a win percentage of .600 to .750 and are playing a winning team. This system is 10-2 ATS the last 5 seasons. Underdogs that have failed to cover the spread in 12 of more of their last 15 games are 77-36 ATS if they are playing a team that has covered the number in 4 or 5 of their last 6. This system is 8-1 ATS this season.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Knicks +7.5
Bottom Line: The Knicks are still fighting for a playoff spot, and I expect them to rebound following Friday's ugly loss to Phoenix. The Warriors are banged up. Their biggest concern is getting to the postseason as healthy as possible. The Warriors are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games overall, 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS win, 2-6 ATS in their last 8 Sunday games and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on 1 day of rest. Pound the Knicks.

4* Major Eastern Conference *SUREFIRE* on Hawks +5
Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from Washington following last night's big win over Indiana. Plus, an Atlanta team that has lost 5 straight knows it needs to start showing up if it's going to hold onto the No. 8 seed in the East. The Hawks should have no problem getting up for this game after getting hammered at home by the Wizards last month. The Wizards are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win, 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points and Wizards are 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 home games versus a team with a losing road record. The Wizards are also 10-21 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons. The underdog is 5-1-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA Western Conference Game of the Week on Rockets -2
Bottom Line: The Rockets have yet to beat the Clippers this season, but they are primed to do it tonight. They catch the Clippers at a great time as LA is playing its 3rd road contest in 4 nights. Plus, Houston has been in a great rhythm offensively, and that bodes extremely well for us. The Rockets are 15-4 ATS under coach Kevin McHale after 4 straight games of making 47% of their shots or better. They have won by an average of 10.0 points in this spot. Houston has won 11 straight at home with wins over Portland, Indiana, Miami and San Antonio during this stretch. The Clippers have shown some vulnerability on the road where they have lost 2 of 3. Pound the Rockets.

4* Major NBA Double Digit *BLOOD BATH* on Nets -9
Bottom Line: Brooklyn won the most recent matchup 89-82 at home to cover a 6.5-point spread. Now, it is laying 2.5 more points despite coming off back-to-back losses and despite Cleveland winning its last 3. That's because Brooklyn has won 11 straight at home by 11.4 points on average. Also, the Cavs are 11-26 ATS the last 3 seasons when out for revenge for a loss where they were held to 85 points or less. The Nets are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games, and I expect them to continue their home dominance tonight.

5* Wiseguy NBA Game of the Week on Wizards +3
Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from Indiana as it hits the road following a big win over the Heat. The Pacers have lost 3 in a row and 6 of 8 on the highway. They are 6-21-1 ATS in their last 28 games overall, 4-17 ATS in their last 21 road games, 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games following a win and 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games versus a team with a winning record. Washington has lost its last 2 games and has been buried twice by Indiana this season so it will be lacking no motivation. Plus, it wants to hold onto the 6th spot in the East to avoid Indiana and Miami in the first round. Pound Washington.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Clippers -1
Bottom Line: Dallas has lost both meeting with the Clippers this season, and it catches them at a bad time. Off last night's ugly loss in New Orleans, LA will be out for blood. Playing against home teams in a double revenge spot has resulted in a 69-36 ATS record the last 5 seasons if the team they are out for revenge against is off an upset loss on the road. Plus, the Clippers are a perfect 9-0 ATS since Doc Rivers took over in road games following a road loss. They have won these games by an average of 9.4 points. Additionally, the Mavs are a poor 11-23 ATS as a home dog under Rick Carlisle. Pound LA.

5* Wiseguy ESPN *BEST BET* BAILOUT on Jazz +8
Bottom Line: The Jazz will be looking to bounce back following a 114-94 home loss to Detroit. They will also be out for revenge for a pair of 10-point losses to Memphis this season. Both of those games were on the road, and I expect things to go much differently in Utah where the Jazz are 10-1 in the last 11 meetings. The Jazz are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 games following a double-digit loss at home and 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Utah is 11-2 ATS the last 2 seasons after failing to cover in 4 of its last 5 games. The Grizzlies are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 meetings in Utah. Pound Utah.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Wizards +2.5
Bottom Line: Washington's defense has been poor of late as it has given up 105 points or more in 4 straight games. Those were all on the road. The "D" should be much better at home where the Wizards have held their last 3 opponents to 98 points or less. The Wizards have been motivated by poor defensive efforts and are 14-4 ATS this season after allowing 100 points or more in 2 straight games. They have won these contests by an average of 4.3 points. Washington has had the last 2 days off so it should be much fresher than a Phoenix squad playing a 3rd road contest in 4 days.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Magic +5
Bottom Line: The Blazers covered in Miami last night, erasing a 17-point 4th quarter deficit before LeBron James ripped their heart out. The Blazers, who are only 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a cover, will have a hard time pulling themselves off the floor after that heartbreaker. The Magic are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. They are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 home games, losing only twice by more than 5 points during this stretch. The Magic are 5-2 SU and ATS in their last 7 home games against Portland with one of these losses coming by less than 5 points. Pound Orland.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pelicans +2.5
Bottom Line: Bad spot for Brooklyn playing a 2nd road game in as many days, especially since yesterday's contest went to OT. The Nets are just 14-20 on the road this season, including 3-7 when playing without a day of rest. New Orleans hasn't quit on the season. It has won 6 of 9, including its last 2, with the most recent win coming against Miami. The Pelicans should also benefit from having had a day off prior to this contest. Home teams that shoot 45.5-47.5% and have a +/-3.0 rebounds per game margin are 74-35 ATS since 1996 when they are matched up with a team that holds opponents to 43.5-45.5% shooting and has a -3 to -5.5 rebounds per game margin. This system is 6-1 ATS this season. Pound the Pelicans.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Hawks +1.5
Bottom Line: This game is meaningful for both teams in terms of the playoff race, but the edge goes to Atlanta at home where it is 20-12 on the season. The home team has had the advantage in this series, going 3-0 in the last 3 and 9-4 in the last 13. It's also worth mentioning that the Hawks are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 versus Pacific division foes and 7-4 ATS this season as home dogs. The Suns have dropped 7 of 11 this season when playing on the road without a day of rest.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Mavs -4.5
Bottom Line: This game means more to a Dallas team that is sitting 7th in a tight Western Conference playoff race. Plus, Brooklyn hasn't been the same team on the road where it is 5-6 in its last 11 and averaging just 94.8 ppg in these contests. It will have a tough time keeping pace offensively against a Dallas team that is averaging 111.0 points on 50.5% shooting over its last 5 games. Playing against road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are off a win of 10 points or more over a division rival has resulted in a 53-24 ATS record since 1996 if their opponent is off a home win of 10 points or more. Pound Dallas.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Warriors -1
Bottom Line: After losing each of the first 2 matchups of the season by 2 points, I expect Golden State to break through against the Spurs. The Warriors are 21-9 ATS when out for revenge for an upset loss to an opponent under coach Mark Jackson, including 11-2 ATS this season. They have won by an average of 12.8 points in these 13 contests.

4* Major NBA Non-Conference *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Grizzlies -1
Bottom Line: Memphis may not have Marc Gasol tonight, but it shouldn't matter at home where they are 8-0 in their last 8 and 14-2 in their last 16. Indiana is a very inconsistent offensive team and likely won't get much help from points off turnovers against a Memphis squad that averages only 13 turnovers per game. The Pacers are 0-8 ATS in the 2nd half of this season versus teams averaging 14 turnovers or less. They have lost to these teams by an average of 6.4 points. The Pacers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a cover, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 versus the West and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games versus a team with a winning home record.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Bobcats +1
Bottom Line: Charlotte has been outstanding in the 2nd half of the season at home where it is on an 8-1 ATS run and outscoring opponents by 8.1 points. Plus, the Bobcats are 11-3 ATS this season as a home dog of 6 points or less, winning these games by 3.2 points on average. Portland is one of the best rebounding teams in the league but likely won't have leading rebounder LaMarcus Aldridge tonight. Besides, the Cats are 8-0 ATS versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds per game in the 2nd half of this season, defeating these teams by 10.8 points on average. Pound the Bobcats.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Kings +8.5
Bottom Line: Sacramento is rested and will be hungry for a win against a Spurs team it has 8 straight against. The Spurs have a much more challenging game against Golden State tomorrow so I don't believe Sacramento will get their full attention. The Kings are 31-15 ATS as a home underdog of 6.5 to 9 points since 1996. They are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 home games versus a team with a winning road record and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage greater than .600.

5* Wiseguy NBA Blowout Game of the Week on Mavs -7.5
Bottom Line: Dallas is off a home loss to Minnesota and has lost all 3 matchups this season with a Denver squad that has won 4 of 5 (2 of the wins over the Heat and Clippers), yet it is laying 7.5 points? Obviously, the books are expecting Dallas to take care of business in this highly motivated spot, and I completely agree. Not only will the Mavs be out to avoid the season sweep, but they need every win they can get as they fight to hang on to a playoff spot. With several tough games ahead, this is one Dallas really needs. The Mavericks are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game, 7-3 ATS in their last 10 versus the Western Conference and 37-14 ATS in their last 51 games following a loss. Pound Dallas.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Bailout on Bucks +13.5
Bottom Line: Warriors head coach Mark Jackson has said the focus right now is to get healthy. He's not going to push guys extra minutes just to blow out the Bucks. The Warriors won in Milwaukee by 21 earlier this season, and they have San Antonio on deck so I don't see them being very hungry or focused tonight. Milwaukee has been scoring the ball well and covering big numbers as a result. The Bucks are 15-6-1 ATS in their last 22 games. They are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Warriors are off a 14-pt. win over Orlando but are 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Bucks are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings at Golden State. Pound the Bucks.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Lakers +13.5
Bottom Line: The Lakers haven't played since the 14th when they were brutally embarrassed in San Antonio. I expect a much, much better effort from them here as they look to save some face. The Spurs have had the last 2 days off, but they will be looking to conserve as much energy as possible down the stretch to get their bodies ready for another championship run. I don't see them going for the jugular again tonight. Playing against double-digit favorites after 8 or more consecutive wins has resulted in a 30-14 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are a winning team playing a losing team. The Spurs are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on 2 days' rest. The Lakers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

4* Major NBA Non-Conference *SUREFIRE* on Pelicans +1
Bottom Line: Bad spot for the Raptors who played an OT game in Atlanta last night. I don't think they'll have enough left in the tank to come away with a win tonight. They are 0-5 SU and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games without a day of rest. The Pelicans will be working on 2 days of rest and are on a 4-0 ATS run when that is the case. The underdog is 15-5-1 ATS in the last 21 meetings, and I'll side with the home dog here.

5* Wiseguy NBA Game of the Week on Bobcats +6
Bottom Line: The Nets are being overvalued because they have won 9 straight at home and defeated Charlotte by 16 at home last month. Despite that win, Brooklyn is laying less here than it did in that game (-7.5). Obviously, the books are expecting Charlotte to put up a lot more of a fight this time around, and I look for the Bobcats to take the Nets down to the wire. Charlotte is 9-1 ATS this season versus teams with a win percentage of 51% to 60%, and it has defeated these teams by an average of 3.4 points. The Bobcats are also 15-7 ATS this season when out for revenge for a double-digit loss. They have lost these contests by just 3.1 points on average. Pound the Bobcats.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Raptors -3
Bottom Line: Atlanta won in Charlotte last night, but it hasn't fared well in the 2nd game of a back-to-back. The Hawks are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games when playing without a day of rest and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. Toronto won by 21 when it hosted the Hawks last month, and it will be motivated to crush them again following an upset loss to Phoenix last game. The Raptors are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games following a loss and 12-3 ATS in their last 15 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Hawks are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home games. Playing against home teams when the line is +3 to -3 that are out for revenge for a loss to an opponent has resulted in a 92-50 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are off a win on the road. Playing against home underdogs that are out for revenge for a road loss of 20 points or more has resulted in an 87-49 ATS record since 1996 if they're opponent is off an upset loss. Pound Toronto.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Bailout on Nuggets +4.5
Bottom Line: Denver was fortunate to cover at Atlanta in its last game as it trailed by 21 points in the contest. That poor performance bodes well for us tonight. Consider that underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that average 103 ppg or more are 37-14 ATS since 1996 if they trailed by 15 points or more at the half last game. The Nuggets have been a terrific investment at home against elite competition, going 9-1 ATS there the last 2 seasons versus teams with a win percentage over .700. They have defeated those teams by an average of 5.1 points. Pound the Nuggets.

4* Major NBA *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Thunder -2.5
Bottom Line: The Bulls catch the Thunder at a bad time. After getting embarrassed by Dallas yesterday, Oklahoma City will be out for blood. The Bulls are one of the top defensive teams in the league, but so are the Thunder. The difference is OKC is far superior on the offensive end. In the end, OKC's offense will be a little too much for Chicago to overcome. That's been the case in OKC's 4-game win streak in the series. They've won these 4 by 15.5 points on average while holding Chicago to 84.0 points. The Thunder are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games following a double-digit loss at home and 8-1 ATS in their last 9 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage greater than .600. In games played in the second half of the season, road teams that average 102.0 ppg or more and are off a loss of 15 points or more are 41-15 ATS since 1996 if they are up against a team that averages only 92-98.0 ppg. This system is 6-1 ATS the last 3 seasons.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Nets -4.5
Bottom Line: This is a tough scheduling spot for the Suns who will be playing their 3rd road game in 4 days and 2nd in as many days. Brooklyn is in a much better scheduling spot as it is playing for just the 2nd time in 5 days. The Nets lost at Washington last time out, but they are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss. They are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home games and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning record. Bet the Nets.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Bailout on Clippers -11
Bottom Line: The Clippers have taken care of business against poor teams lately going 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games versus teams with a winning percentage below .400. They'll be lacking no motivation here as they look to pay Cleveland back for a 6-point upset loss in the season's first matchup. LA is 11-3 ATS this season when out for revenge for an upset loss this season. Playing against double-digit road dogs that have beaten the spread by 24 or more points total in their last three games has resulted in a 61-31 ATS record since 1996 if they have a winning percentage of .250 to .400. These teams have lost by an average of 16.0 points in these contests. Pound the Clippers.

5* Wiseguy NBA Blowout Game of the Year on Hawks -6
Bottom Line: This is the last game of a long 5-game road trip for Denver, and it comes after arguably its biggest win of the season. In other words, this has letdown written all over it for the Nuggets. Atlanta will be the more rested team. Plus, it will be highly motivated as it looks to hold off teams for the last playoff spot in the East. The Nuggets are a terrible 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games when playing without a day of rest. They are also 1-11 ATS in the 2nd half of the season versus teams with a win percentage of 40-49% over the last 2 seasons. Pound the Hawks.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +9.5
Bottom Line: Off a big win over Golden State, it's going to be mighty tough for the Clippers to get up for the lowly Jazz. Utah hasn't quit and continues to be competitive at home where it has lost by double digits just twice in its last 12 games. The Jazz are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600 and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus a team with a winning road record. This is the Clippers' first trip to Utah since 12/28/12, and they typically haven't fared well there. The Clippers are 4-17 ATS in the last 21 meetings in Utah. Pound the Jazz.

5* Wiseguy NBA on TNT Game of the Month on Bulls +3.5
Bottom Line: I think Houston will still be holding on to Tuesday's loss to the Thunder. That was a game it really wanted, and I don't see it being able to get up for a Bulls team it defeated by 15 earlier this season. Plus, the Rockets are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. The Bulls suffered a letdown against San Antonio following a huge win over Miami, but they are 12-2 ATS in their last 14 games following a loss. They are also 10-1 ATS in the 2nd half of the season the last 3 seasons when playing against good teams that have a Win Pct. of .600 to .700. Also, Chicago is 13-4 ATS this season when out for revenge for a double-digit loss to an opponent. Pound the Bulls.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Bobcats +5.5
Bottom Line: Washington is being overvalued at home, where it is 11-18-2 ATS this season, against a Bobcats team that will be out for revenge for a disappointing 14-point loss in the first matchup. The Wizards are a soft 9-19 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons. The Wizards are also 2-9-1 ATS in their last 12 home games versus a team with a losing road record. Charlotte is one of the best defensive teams in the league and has been solid in transition defense. That's why it's 8-1 ATS in the 2nd half of this season versus up-tempo teams like Washington that average 83 shots or more per game. The Bobcats have won these games by an average of 9.3 points. Pound Charlotte.

4* Major Western Conference *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Thunder -4
Bottom Line: Following an ugly upset loss to the Lakers, OKC will take its frustrations out on a Houston team it has owned. The Thunder have won 3 straight in the series by 9 points or more with the home win coming by 31. Playing against underdogs that are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent has resulted in a 92-51 ATS record the last 5 seasons if the opponent is also off a road loss. The Thunder are 19-8 ATS the last 3 seasons following an upset loss on the road, winning these contests by an average of 8.4 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers -11
Bottom Line: Look for the Pacers to bounce back at home, where they are 29-4 on the season, against a Boston team that has struggled on the road and has struggled against the Pacers. The Celtics are 8-22 on the road this season, including 0-4 in their last 4. They've lost 3 straight to the Pacers with two of the losses coming by 15-plus. They lost by 27 in the game played in Indiana. Cold teams like Indiana that have failed to cover the spread in 12 or more their last 15 games are 68-30 ATS since 1996 if they are up against an opponent that has covered the number in 5 or 6 of its last 7 games. This system is a perfect 5-0 ATS this season. Additionally, playing against road underdogs that are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent has resulted in a 165-103 ATS record the last 5 seasons if their opponent is off a road loss. The Pacers are 28-11 ATS off a road loss the last 2 seasons. Pound Indiana.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Clippers -10
Bottom Line: This is a tough spot for Phoenix, which is playing a 2nd road game in as many days. The Clippers suffered a letdown following their blowout win over the Lakers and were lucky to beat a struggling Atlanta squad. They will be focused here because of it. Plus, they lost by 19 on this floor to Phoenix earlier this season and will be motivated to right that wrong. The Clippers are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 versus the Western Conference. They are 18-8 ATS this season after a game where they failed to cover the spread.

4* Major NBA Fool's Gold Favorite on Jazz +1.5
Bottom Line: The wrong team is favored here. The Hawks are 1-14 in their last 15, including 0-6 in their last 6. They are 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 games overall and 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 road games. They are even 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games versus teams with losing home records. Utah has been playing good at home where it is 2-0 in its last 2, 4-2 in its last 6 and 11-6 since Dec. 27.