6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Mavericks +3
The Key: This is a big game for both teams as they are in the hunt for the 8th and final playoff spot in the West. I give the edge to Dallas, which is in better current form and is the healthier side. The Lakers are 2-4 in their last 6 while the Mavs have won 4 of their last 5. The Lakers are without Metta World Peace, Steve Nash is listed as doubtful and Kobe Bryant is playing hurt. These injuries are a big part of LA's recent struggles. I should also mention that Dallas has won 4 of its last 5 on the road with the only loss during this stretch being a 1-point setback in San Antonio. Dallas is an incredible 18-5 ATS as a road underdog of 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons. The road team is 3-0 ATS this season and 18-7-1 ATS in the last 26 meetings. The Mavericks are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Los Angeles. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Trail Blazers +9.5
The Key: Utah is being overvalued here because it has won 4 in a row SU and ATS and Portland has dropped its last 4 both SU and ATS. You want to fade favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have covered the number in 4 or more consecutive games if their winning percentage is just 45%-55%. Doing so has produced a 32-8 ATS result the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting these parameters have been favored by an average of 6.1 points but have won by just 1.2 points on average. This system is 17-5 ATS the last 3 seasons and 6-2 ATS this season. You also want to take road teams like Portland that check in off a blowout loss of 20 points or more if their opponent has scored 100 points or more in 4 straight games. Doing so has produced a 53-27 ATS result since 1996. These teams have been underdogs of 9.0 points on average but have lost by just 5.9 on average. The more a team loses, the more the value swings in its favor. With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that Portland is 17-6 ATS the last 3 seasons when it enters a contest with at least 6 losses in its last 8 games. Utah just won in Portland Friday so the Blazers will be out for some revenge here. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Celtics +6.5
The Key: This is a game Boston wants badly. After winning the season's first meeting in New York, the Celtics have lost the last two in the series at home. They were kicked 100-85 by the Knicks Tuesday, and that loss can't be sitting well. It will be the driving force behind a strong showing here. The road team has been the play in this series. It is 3-0 SU and ATS this season. Going back further, it is 9-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings. It is also worth noting that the Celtics are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in New York. Catching this many points on the road has been a gift for Boston backers since Doc Rivers took over. That's because the C's are 51-33 ATS as a road underdog of 6.5 to 12 points under his watch. In addition, Boston is 91-68 ATS when playing with double revenge under Rivers. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Suns +10.5
The Key: The Suns are playing a lot of young guys as they are already starting to think about next season. Still, they aren't getting the respect they deserve at home tonight versus a road-weary Pacers club that will be playing its third road game in 4 days. You want to fade favorites of 10 or more points that gave up 80 points or less in their last game if they are matchup up against a team that allowed 110 points or more in their last game. Doing so has produced a 49-18 ATS mark since 1996. This system is 9-3 ATS the last 3 seasons. You also want to take underdogs of 10 or more points that have failed to cover the spread in 8 or more of their last 10 games even if they are playing a third game in 4 days. That's because these teams are 58-30 ATS since 1996. Also, the underdog is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the Pacers are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Take the points.

6* Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Rockets pk
The Key: This is LA's 4th game in 5 days so fatigue will definitely be an issue. Plus, I expect motivation to be an issue as well as it is coming off a heartbreaking loss in San Antonio last night. It will be tough to bounce back from that one. The Rockets will be very motivated as they've yet to clinch a playoff spot. They've also lost the season's first two meetings with the Clippers so the revenge angle is live here. The Clippers are a soft 2-11 ATS under coach Del Negro when coming off a cover in a game they lost straight up. They have lost by an average score of 99.6 to 92.1 in this situation. The Rockets are 17-5 ATS under coach McHale in home games after having lost 2 of their last 3 games. They have won by an average score of 106.9 to 97.4 in these spots. Take the Rockets.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Mavs -4
The Key: *reduced writeup due to late line release and early start time* Bulls are in for a letdown on the road following a huge win over the Heat. Dallas, which is vying for a playoff spot, is in major bounce-back mode after getting embarrassed by Indiana. The Mavs were also kicked by the Bulls earlier this season so they will be lacking no motivation. Plays on any team that is out for revenge for a blowout loss of 20 points or more on the road to an opponent, provided it checks in off an upset loss of 15 points or more, are 37-12 ATS since 1996. This system is a perfect 6-0 ATS the last 3 seasons. Lay the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Trail Blazers -3
The Key: Utah has won its last two but is still just 5-12 in its last 17. I expect Utah's struggles to continue tonight in Portland where the Blazers are 22-12 on the season. The Jazz are just 10-27 on the road, including 0-9 in their last 9 road contests. They have lost by an average of 8.4 points during this losing streak. Portland should be lacking no motivated here following back-to-back double-digit defeats. The last one came at home to Brooklyn and that's significant because the Trail Blazers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a double-digit loss at home. The Jazz are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600 while the Trail Blazers are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400. Lay the points.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Nuggets -6.5
The Key: Denver saw its 15-game losing streak come to an end Monday and then lost a tough one in San Antonio Wednesday. Both of those were on the road. The Nuggets are a much better team at home and should be hungry to get back in the win column tonight. They'll be further fueled by a loss at Brooklyn in the season's first meeting. This is the Nets 6th straight on the road so I expect them to be feeling pretty road-weary by now. The Nuggets are 17-0 in their last 17 at home and have won these by an average of 11.9 points. They are also 5-0 in their last 5 at home versus the Nets and have won these by an average of 13.2 points. These two trends form a 22-0 angle that carries an average winning margin of 12.6 points. Lay the number.

6* NBA Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Memphis -4.5
The Key: After back-to-back poor performances on the road, I fully expect Memphis to bounce-back strong at home tonight. The Grizzlies will draw added motivated from an embarrassing 121-96 loss at Houston the last time these two met. The Grizzlies are 10-0 in their last 10 at home and have won these by an average of 7.9 points. The Rockets have struggled on the road all season and haven't played away from home since Mar. 9 so this is a tough spot for them. The Grizz are 4-0 in their last 4 at home versus Houston, winning these by an average of 10.8 points. It is also worth noting that the home team is 9-0 in the last 9 meetings with an average winning margin of 11.1 points. These 3 trends form a 23-0 angle that carries a 9.9-pt avg. margin of victory. Memphis is 32-17 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less over the last 3 seasons. Also, the Grizzlies are 15-4 ATS all-time under coach Hollins when out for revenge for a blowout loss of 20 points or more to an opponent. Lay the number.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Suns +1.5
The Key: This is a big letdown spot for Sacramento, which won at Golden State last night. Keep in mind that the Kings hadn't defeated an opponent with a winning record away from Sacramento all season before last night. Even with the win, they are only 7-30 on the road. The Suns will be in bounce-back mode after losing in Utah last night. They will also be out for revenge for a loss at Sacramento earlier this month. They had won 5 straight in the series before that defeat. The Kings have had virtually no success in Phoenix where they have lost 12 of their last 13. The Kings are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU win. The Kings are also 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings and 2-10 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Phoenix. Take the Suns.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Lakers -4.5
The Key: Motivated by 3 consecutive defeats that have reduced their lead to a single game for the final playoff spot in the West, the Lakers will bounce-back strong against a team they have defeated 21 straight times. You want to fade home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are looking for revenge for a loss of 20 points or more to an opponent, provided that opponent checks in off a road game where both it and its foe scored 100 points or more. Doing so has produced a 25-5 ATS mark the last 5 seasons, and a perfect 2-0 ATS result this season. The Timberwolves rolled in Detroit last night. That bodes well for us as they are 3-13-1 ATS in their last 17 games following a win and 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games following a in of more than 10 points. The Lakers are 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Minnesota, winning these by an average of 9.3 points. The Lakers have been hurt by the 3-point during their 3-game slide, but Minnesota shoots an NBA-low 30.0 percent on 3s. The T-Wolves made a season-high 14 on 26 attempts last night, which means they used them all up. If anything, the good shooting night will make them fall more in love with the long range jump shot tonight, and that plays in our favor. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Grizzlies +1
The Key: Motivated by Monday's disappointing performance at Washington, the Grizzlies will bounce-back strong tonight. We're talking about a team that is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games following a loss. Plus, Memphis hasn't lost too many against the East on the road. It's 10-4 on the road against the East this season. The Grizzlies are 19-9 ATS in all games against the East this season. They are also 14-4 ATS all-time under coach Hollins in road games against Atlantic division foes. Memphis has also been a tremendous investment in games oddsmakers expect to be close. It is 14-6 ATS this season in games when the line is +3 to -3. The Knicks have won 5 in a row but only last night's win against the banged-up Celtics was against a playoff team. The Grizzlies have had a day off to gear up for this one, and I fully expect them to respond.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Mavericks +1.5
The Key: The Mavs will be the more motivated team tonight. They have played their way back into the playoff picture, trailing the Lakers for the No. 8 spot in the West by only two games in the win column. Plus, they have lost the season's first two meetings with the Clippers so they'll be out for revenge. Both of those defeats came in L.A. I expect a different result in Dallas where the Mavs have won 10 of the last 11 in the series. The Mavs have been an outstanding investment in revenge spots this season. They are 17-8 ATS when out for revenge for a same-season loss this season. They are also an impressive 18-6 ATS in their last 24 versus the Western Conference. The Clippers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 versus the West. They are also 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a win. Take Dallas.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Wizards +3
The Key: The Wizards are showing value at home in the underdog role tonight. Washington has won each of its last 5 and 15 of its last 19 at home with notable wins over the Thunder, Bulls, Clippers, Knicks, Nuggets and Rockets during this stretch. Memphis has been pretty good on the road this season but has dropped its last 3 away from home. Besides, the Wizards are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games versus teams that have a winning road record. Washington is also a reliable 34-18 ATS as an underdog this season, including 16-7 ATS as a home underdog. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Rockets +1.5
The Key: The Spurs have won each of the season's first three meetings, which means Houston will be out for some serious revenge. San Antonio hasn't swept the season series since 2005-06, and I don't expect it to get it done here. The Spurs needed OT to defeat the Rockets in the season's prior meeting in Houston and James Harden didn't even play in that game. The Rockets are a better team than they were the last time they saw the Spurs and will certainly benefit from Harden being in the lineup. Houston has been playing very well at home where it has won 10 of its last 12. It is also worth noting that the Rockets had won 3 in a row at home versus the Spurs by 3, 20 and 5 points before suffering the OT loss. Houston is an outstanding 9-1 ATS the L2 seasons as a home underdog of 6 points or less. Take the points.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Bulls -3.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats, and further fueled by losses in each of the season's first three meetings with Indiana, Chicago will be hungry to say the least. Consider that home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are looking for revenge for a same-season loss to an opponent, provided that opponent checks in off a win of 20 points or more over a division rival, are 42-15 ATS since 1996. Teams fitting into this situation have won by an average of 8.6 points. The Bulls were upset in last game by a Portland team that has been terrible on the road much of the season. That loss can't be sitting well. Fortunately for us, nothing gets Chicago's juices flowing like an upset loss at home. The Bulls are 13-4 ATS the last 2 seasons following an upset loss at home. They have won by an average score of 95.5 to 83.9 in this spot. Indiana has been far from dominant on the road. It is just 15-18 away from home on the road. Plus, it is 3-11 ATS in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season. It has lost by an average score of 98.1 to 90.1 in this spot. Lay the points.

6* NBA Blowout on Rockets -12.5
The Key: The Cavaliers gave all they had in an attempt to bring Miami's lengthy winning streak to an end. They led by as many as 27 points in the third quarter despite being without leading scorers Anderson Varejao, Kyrie Irving and Dion Waiters, but it wasn't enough as LeBron James punked Cleveland again. That would have been a season-making win for Cleveland, and I don't see it being over it tonight. The Cavs lost the season's first meeting with Houston at home. With this is mind, consider that plays against any team that is coming off a close home loss of 3 points or less and is looking for revenge for a home loss to an opponent are 70-33 ATS the last 5 seasons. The road has not been kind to Cleveland. It is just 9-25 on the highway this season, has lost 11 of its last 12 road games versus West foes and has dropped 20 of its last 23 in Houston, including 5 straight by an average of 15.4 points. The Cavaliers are 0-7 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Houston. Lay the number.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on 76ers +14
The Key: The Nuggets were upset in Philadelphia clear back on Halloween. However, plays against double-digit home favorites that are out for revenge for an upset loss to an opponent, provided their opponent checks in off a double-digit road loss, are 37-14 ATS the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting into this situation have been favored by an average of 12.2 points but have won by only 9.8 points on average. Philly was embarrassed last night so I fully expect it to put forth a great effort here. Denver has been rolling but this will be its third game in four days and it is coming off back-to-back taxing games against Chicago and Oklahoma City. Plus, Denver is a bit banged up with Wilson Chandler expected to miss with a shoulder injury and Ty Lawson listed as questionable with a heel injury. The Nuggets upset the Thunder Tuesday but are on a 0-10 ATS slide in home games off a double-digit win as an underdog of 6 points or more. They have lost by an average of 7.3 points in this situation. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Spurs -8
The Key: The Spurs have completely owned the Warriors in San Antonio. In fact, they are 28-0 in their last 28 at home in the series and have won these games by an average of 17.0 points. After getting 3 days of much-needed rest and out for revenge for last month's overtime loss at Golden State, I expect the Spurs to continue their home dominance of the Warriors. Golden State checks in off back-to-back impressive road wins, but this will be its third road game in four days. Plus, the Warriors are 0-8 ATS this season in road games after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games. It has lost by an average score of 104.4 to 92.4 in this situation. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Magic +11
The Key: The Magic were blown out by 22 in Indiana last night, but consider that road underdogs of 10 or more points off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more, a bad team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a winning record, are 66-33 ATS since 1996. Teams fitting this system have lost by just 9.3 points on average. Plus, this system is 21-9 ATS the last 5 seasons. It is also worth noting that the Magic are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS loss and 48-21-2 ATS in their last 71 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Magic haven't lost consecutive games against the spread in a month, which correlates to how undervalued they are and how much they've improved. The Knicks get Carmelo Anthony back tonight, but his return could produce a hiccup as roles now have to change. The Knicks were blasted 92-63 at Golden State the last time Melo came back from injury. Also, we can't ignore the level of motivation that Orlando will have as it tries to avoid the season sweep. The Magic are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 road games while the Knicks are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 home games. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Thunder -9
The Key: This is a game the Thunder have had circled, and it just so happens that they catch Denver at a great time. The Nuggets just played a tough overtime contests in Chicago last night so they won't be nearly as fresh as a Thunder team that had Monday off. Oklahoma City wants this game badly because it has lost its last two in Denver in heartbreaking fashion. The Thunder lost 121-118 in overtime Jan. 20 and 105-103 Mar. 1 when Ty Lawson nailed a jumper with 0.2 seconds left. Home court will make all the difference in the world for the Thunder tonight. The Thunder are a perfect 20-0 in their last 20 home games against Western Conference foes and have won these games by an average of 17.0 points. This streak includes a 117-97 win over Denver on Jan. 16. Revenge has been a solid angle to play on the Thunder, especially when they're at home. Consider that they are 13-3 ATS the last 2 seasons in home games when out for revenge for a same-season loss. They have won by an average of 14.0 points in this situation. Lay the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Suns +3.5
The Key: The Lakers have won 2 straight since Kobe Bryant's ankle injury but will be lucky to make it out of Phoenix alive. LA just defeated the Kings Sunday behind big games from veterans Metta World Peace, Steve Nash and Antawn Jamison. These vets will have a tough time bringing it on consecutive nights. Recently, the Lakers are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Lakers are also a soft 17-38 ATS in their last 55 games following a win, 14-36-1 ATS in their last 51 games following an ATS win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Suns have lost 4 straight and were embarrassed 127-105 at Washington Saturday. That poor defensive effort should be a huge motivator here. Consider that the Suns are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. Here's the key 10-1 ATS angle: The home team has had the upper hand in this series winning each of the last 8 meetings by an average of 10.8 points. In terms of the line, the home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Also, the Lakers are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Phoenix and have lost the last 3 straight up by an average of 12.7 points. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Hornets +3.5
The Key: This is a sandwich game for Golden State. The Warriors earned an emotional 30-point win last night against a Houston team that had won the season's first three meetings. The Warriors have another big game with San Antonio Wednesday so it will be easy for them to look right past a New Orleans squad they have defeated twice already this season. The Hornets have lost 3 straight and will be further motivated by the revenge factor so while Golden State looks ahead they'll be very focused on the task at hand. The Hornets have covered the number in 32 of their last 48 when out for revenge for 2 consecutive defeats to a foe. Prior to last night, the Warriors had lost 9 of 10 on the road with the lone win coming by a single point against the T-Wolves. They are just 2-9 ATS in their last 11 road games. They are also 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a win, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Lastly, the underdog is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Bobcats +7.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back double-digit defeats in Toronto and Boston, and further fueled by a 104-87 loss at Washington earlier this month, Charlotte will show up tonight. Washington has been much improved since the return of John Wall, but his presence hasn't made much of an impact on the road where the Wizards have lost 3 straight and 8 of 10. Washington's improved play has led to it being overvalued on the road against teams with losing home marks. In fact, it is 0-4 ATS in its last 4 road games versus teams with a losing record at home. In addition, plays against favorites that carry a winning percentage of .250 to .400 that are playing their 5th game in 7 days and are matched up against a team with a losing record are 60-29 ATS since 1996. These favorites have tied on average in this fatigued situation. Also, underdogs that have failed to cover the number in at least 12 or their last 15 games that are matched up against a team that have covered the spread in 3 of its last 4 games are 52-23 ATS since 1996. These teams have been underdogs of 8.0 points on average but have lost by only 2.9 points. The Bobcats have defeated Washington twice this season so they'll be lacking no confidence. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Warriors +8
The Key: In case Friday's 113-95 home loss to Chicago isn't motivation enough, losses in each of the season's first three meetings with Houston will be. I believe the Chicago loss will be motivation enough and the three losses to Houston will further fuel the fire. "This was an embarrassing performance by us, point blank,'' said Stephen Curry, who scored just eight points on 2-for-13 shooting against Chicago. Curry is one of the NBA top 3-point shooters at 45%, and I fully expect him to bounce-back strong following a game where he was 0-for-5 from beyond the arc. Golden State has not been blown out at home often, and it has responded when it has been. The Warriors are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home. Prior to Friday, they had suffered 3 double-digit home losses this season. Following a 10-point home loss to the Grizzlies, they responded with a 114-110 road win over the Clippers. Following a double-digit home loss to Miami, they went on the road and covered the number with a 7-point loss at San Antonio. After a 10-point home loss to Milwaukee, they drilled the Knicks 92-63. These games clearly show the way getting kicked at home motivates this team. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Jazz -1.5
The Key: This is a very tough spot for Memphis, which will be playing its 4th road game in 5 days. Utah will be the much fresher side as it has had 2 days of rest. The Jazz are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 2 days' rest. The Jazz should also be the more motivated side as they look to avenge losses in the season's first 2 meetings. The fact they were kicked by Oklahoma City last time out throws more fuel on the fire. The Jazz are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games following a loss of more than 10 points. Utah is one of the best home teams in the NBA year in and year out. It is 23-8 at home this season. It is even on an 8-3 ATS run at home games versus teams like Memphis with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. It is also worth noting that Utah is a rock solid 25-13 ATS in games when the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons. Lay the points.

6* NBA Letdown Game of the Week on Cavs +7
The Key: The Mavs were down 8 points late in San Antonio last night but made a ferocious comeback only to come up 1 point short when Vince Carter's 3-point attempt at the buzzer came up short. Dallas put a lot of stock into that game as it had lost each of the previous 3 meetings this season so it will have a tough time picking itself up off the floor in time for this one. With Oklahoma City up next on Sunday, the Mavs also face the sandwich effect here. The Cavs are without Kyrie Irving but find themselves in a great spot as they haven't played since Tuesday. They will be the much fresher side tonight. The Cavaliers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a losing record. It is also worth noting that they are 7-0 ATS this season on the road versus up-tempo teams that average 83 or more shots/game. They have defeated these teams by an average score of 98.0 to 95.1. In a battle of teams that prefer to push the pace, I'll go with the team that has the fresher legs. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Lakers +10
The Key: This line is an overreaction to the absence of Kobe Bryant. The Lakers aren't going to quit because of Bryant's injury. They want to make the playoffs, and I expect them to keep fighting hard. Steve Nash and Dwight Howard are more than capable of picking up the slack. Everyone, not just Kobe, has picked up its play during a stretch where the Lakers have won 17 of 24. They have been resilient during this stretch, going 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss. The Pacers check in off a blowout win over Minnesota but are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a victory. They are also 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning record. It is also worth noting that the road team is 4-0 SU and ATS in the last 4 meetings. The Lakers were upset by 2 points as an 8.5-point home favorite in the season's first meeting. However, teams headed up by Mike D'Antoni are on a 25-8 ATS run when out for revenge for a home upset loss where they were laying 7 points or more. His teams have responded to win by an average score of 110.4 to 101.7 in this situation. Take the points.

6* NBA on TNT *CA$H COW* on Spurs -8
The Key: The Spurs, who are already without Tony Parker, were humiliated at Minnesota Tuesday, but Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard didn't play and they were in a letdown spot following a big win over the Thunder the previous night. With Duncan and Leonard back, and motivated to wash the sour taste of their most recent defeat out of their mouth, expect the Spurs to bounce-back strong this evening. San Antonio is a dominant 15-3 ATS in home games off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more since 1996. It has won by an average score of 103.1 to 89.8 points in these spots. The Spurs have won four straight over Dallas by an average of 21.5 points. They won the most recent meeting in Dallas by just 6 points, but Duncan didn't play in that game and Manu Ginobli logged only 8 minutes. While revenge can be a solid angle, this is not the time to play that card. That's because plays against teams that are out for revenge for 2 consecutive losses to an opponent that scored at least 100 points in each, provided that opponent checks in off a road loss of 20 points or more, are 36-13 ATS the last 5 seasons. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Hawks +1
The Key: Both teams played last night with the Lakers winning in Orlando and the Hawks going down in Miami. Playing on consecutive days should be a bigger issue for the Lakers, who are a much older team. In fact, the Lakers are 6-13-1 ATS in their last 20 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. Atlanta is 22-11 ATS the last 2 seasons in the second game of a back-to-back. The Hawks should be lacking no motivation here following last night's 17-point defeat. They should be further fueled by a 1-point loss in L.A. earlier this month. Atlanta is 9-1 ATS in home games off a road loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons. It has won by an average score of 101.8 to 88.0 in this situation. The Lakers are a public team and the public is really starting to fall in love with them after back-to-back covers. This is precisely the time to go against the grain as they are 3-13 ATS after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games over the last 2 seasons. Atlanta is 12-2 ATS in home games after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games over the last 2 seasons. Take the Hawks.

7* NBA Humpday *HEAVY HITTER* on Pacers -14
The Key: This is a letdown spot for Minnesota following last night's big win over the Spurs. Consider that the Timberwolves are 0-7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a win. Minnesota is also 0-8 ATS the last 3 seasons after leading by 15 points or more at the half in its previous game. Meanwhile, this is a bounce-back and revenge spot for Indiana, which was whipped at Miami in its last game and lost on a last-second layup in the first meeting with Minnesota. Indiana has been virtually unstoppable at home where it is 25-7. Its home record is significant because the Timberwolves are 0-7-1 ATS in their last 8 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. The Pacers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a losing record. In addition, Indiana is 8-1 ATS after a loss by 10 points or more this season. There is also a system in our favor that supports home favorites playing only their 2nd game in 5 days against an opponent playing their 4th game in 5 days. This system is 35-9 ATS the last 5 seasons. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Timberwolves +9
The Key: Off a big win over the Thunder last night, expect the Spurs to suffer a letdown. San Antonio will have a tough time bouncing back from that win both emotionally and physically. Tony Parker has carried the team in the second game of back-to-backs, but they won't have his services this evening. Minnesota enters off an ugly 100-77 home loss to Dallas, but it is 5-0-1 ATS in its last 6 games following a double-digit loss at home. The Timberwolves are 21-10 ATS in their last 31 games overall following a loss of more than 10 points. As if the Dallas loss isn't enough motivation, the Wolves have lost the season's first two meetings with San Antonio. Keep in mind the Spurs are just 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. Also, the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Hawks +10
The Key: Motivation will not be an issue for the Hawks, which check in off back-to-back defeats. Furthermore, they have lost each of the season's first three meetings with Miami. Not only will Atlanta be motivated, it will be rested and prepared. The Hawks have had 2 days to rest and prepare while Miami has had just 1. It is significant that Atlanta enters off a double-digit loss to Brooklyn. That's because it is 4-0 ATS in its last 4 games following a loss of more than 10 points. It is also significant that the Hawks lost by double digits the last time they faced Miami. That's because they are on a 15-5 ATS run in road games when out for revenge for a loss of 10 points or more. Miami was only favored by 6.5 points the last time it hosted Atlanta so the line has clearly been inflated due to Miami's win streak. Consider that the Heat are on a 5-17 ATS slide in home games after 9 or more consecutive wins. They have won these games on average but only by 2.6 points on average. Lastly, the road team is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* (NBA TV) on Spurs -1.5
The Key: The Spurs will be lacking no motivation this evening. They are coming off their worst loss of the season and will also be out to avenge a 14-point loss at OKC in the most recent meeting. Consider that home teams that are out for revenge for a double-digit road loss, provided they check in off an upset loss of 15 points or more, are 17-5 ATS the last 5 seasons. The Spurs don't have Tony Parker, but they have a huge advantage in terms of fresh legs. This will be OKCs 2nd game in as many days and 4th in 5 days while the Spurs have had 2 days off. Home favorites that are playing their 2nd game in 5 days and are matched up against a team playing their 4th game in 5 days are 34-9 ATS the last 5 seasons. Additionally, the Spurs are 13-4 ATS the last 2 seasons when playing on 2 days' rest. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on 76ers +6.5
The Key: The 76ers have been struggling, but I believe they will be lacking no motivation here. They will want to wash the sour taste of yesterday's 8-point loss to lowly Orlando out of their mouth as soon as possible. Plus, they have lost the season's first two meetings with Brooklyn, including a 20-point loss at home in the most recent meeting. Philly is a reliable 38-23 ATS when out for revenge for a loss to an opponent that scored 100 or more points on them under coach Collins. It has won these games by an average of .8 points. It is also 15-5 ATS under Collins when it checks in with 8 or more losses in its last 10 games. It has won by an average of 3.2 points in this spot. Also, the 76ers are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS loss while the Nets are 21-34 ATS in their last 55 games following an ATS win. The Nets are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings. Take Philly and the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Kings -1
The Key: The Bucks are at a disadvantage here because their starting five logged 169.77 minutes last night against Golden State. They had three other bench players log 65.14 minutes. This is significant because the Bucks are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing without a day of rest and 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Kings had yesterday off so they should be the fresher side. The Kings have quietly been playing good basketball at home. They are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 at home with solid wins over the Rockets and Jazz during this stretch. They also took the Spurs and Nuggets down to the wire during this run. The Kings are an impressive 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games versus teams that sport a winning record while the Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last four games versus teams that carry a winning percentage below .400. Lay the point.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Suns +6.5
The Key: Houston won at Golden State last night, but this is still a team that's only 14-20 on the road. The Rockets have been extremely overvalued on the road versus lesser competition this season. In fact, they are just 2-12 ATS in road games when playing against a team with a losing record this season. They have actually lost these games by an average of 2.4 points. The Rockets are a dismal 8-24 ATS in the last 32 meetings in this series. Also, the underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Pistons +3.5
The Key: The Pistons have been struggling, but I don't think they are getting the respect they deserve at home against a Dallas squad that is only 10-21 on the road. While Detroit hasn't been able to break through often against quality competition, it has taken care of business against losing teams. In fact, the Pistons are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games versus teams that have a losing record and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus teams that have a road winning percentage of less than .400. Detroit gave the Knicks all they wanted Wednesday while playing without Greg Monroe. Monroe is expected back tonight, which helps, but I like the Pistons catching points at home in this spot regardless.

7* NBA Non-Conference Game of the Year on Bobcats +14.5
The Key: It's been another terrible season for the Bobcats, but this is a great spot for them. The Thunder just finished a stretch where they played the Nuggets, Clippers, Lakers and Knicks, and they have the Celtics and Spurs following this game. I believe they'll relax following such a high-intensity stretch, especially since a 114-69 win over the Bobcats in the first meeting will be in their mind. That loss was the worst in franchise history for the Bobcats and it will be out to save face here. Consider that double-digit underdogs that are out for revenge for a loss where they were held to less than 85 points, provided their opponent checks in off a win in a game they didn't cover, are 60-29 ATS since 1996. Also, the Thunder are a soft 5-16 ATS under coach Brooks when they check in off a close road win of 3 points or less. They have actually lost by an average score of 103.9 to 99.9 in these contests. The Thunder have been favored on the road by double digits just twice this season and lost straight up both times. Those losses came to Washington and Cleveland. The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Pistons +3
The Key: I really like the Pistons at home tonight whether Carmelo Anthony suits up or not. The Knicks beat Cleveland Monday but needed 70 points from the bench to erase a 22-point deficit. That big come from behind win places them in a letdown spot here, especially since they host Oklahoma City tomorrow night and have won the season's first three meetings with Detroit decisively. The Knicks will be looking ahead to a matchup with a bigger fish. The Knicks are just 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a win. They have struggled when getting only a day of rest as they are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 1 day of rest. The Pistons, meanwhile, are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games when playing on 2 days' rest. Lastly, it is certainly worth noting that the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Kings +5
The Key: This is a sandwich game for the Nuggets. They are coming off a big win over Atlanta last night, and they have the Clippers on deck. They'll be much more worried about their next one than a Sacramento squad they have defeated by 25 and 28 points this season. Those losses assure us the Kings will be motivated here. Plus, we can't forget that Sacramento is a solid 15-13 at home on the season while the Nuggets are just 13-19 on the road. The Kings are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games. Also, they are 12-1 ATS all-time under coach Smart when out for revenge for two straight losses of 10 points or more to an opponent. They have lost on average in this spot but only by 3.5 points. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Bobcats +13
The Key: There is plenty of history supporting this play on the Bobcats. Right away I like the fact that road underdogs that have failed to cover the number in 12 or more of their last 15 games are 107-61 ATS since 1996. This system instantly tightens up to 40-16 ATS if the team is playing at least its 8th game in 14 days, which is the case. Additionally, underdogs of 10 of more points that are playing their third game in 4 days and have failed to cover the number in at least 8 of their last 10 games are 57-27 ATS since 1996. Underdogs of 10 or more points that have failed to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games and are up against an opponent that checks in off a cover are 159-96 ATS since 1996. This system tightens up to 26-9 ATS the last 3 seasons. These systems leave no doubt that the value lies with the Bobcats. Plus, it is also worth noting that the Blazers are a soft 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games versus teams with a winning percentage below .400. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Timberwolves +10
The Key: The Heat were able to avenge a pair of 20-point losses to the Knicks with a huge come-from-behind victory in New York Sunday. However, that loss sets them up for a letdown in Minnesota where the T-Wolves have quietly been competitive. The Wolves have won or lost by 10 points or less in each of their last seven home games while playing good opponents like the Spurs and Knicks during this stretch. The Heat have not been a good investment following a game where the key guys log a lot of minutes. In fact, they are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Heat are even on a 1-6 ATS skid in road games versus teams that have a losing record at home. The Wolves were kicked last time out but typically bounce-back strong, as evidence by the fact they are 20-8 ATS in their last 28 games following a loss of more than 10 points. In addition, underdogs of 10 or more points that have lost 8 or more of their last 10 games and are up against a team that has won 8 or more of their last 10 games are 67-35 ATS the last 5 seasons. Underdogs of 10 or more points that have been beaten against the spread by 18 or more points total in their last three games, provided they carry a winning percentage of 25% to 40%, are 27-10 ATS the last 3 seasons. Lastly, underdogs of 10 or more points that have failed to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games, provided they carry a winning percentage of 25% to 40%, are 32-15 ATS the last 3 seasons. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Hawks +6
The Key: Like clockwork, the Lakers are being overvalued yet again following a win. LA rolled Minnesota by 22 last time out and this line is being inflated as a result. Ask yourself if the Lakers should be laying this many points against a team with 4 more wins that has victories against the Thunder (on the road), Pacers, Clippers, Nuggets, Grizzlies (on the road), Bulls and Celtics. The Lakers are a soft 15-37-1 ATS in their last 53 games following an ATS win, and fading them following a cover is 16-5 ATS under D'Antoni. LA is also just 11-23 ATS in home games after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons. The Hawks are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games, and I expect them to give LA all it wants and more here.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* (ABC) on Heat -4.5
The Key: The Miami Heat have lost each of the season's first two meetings with the Knicks by 20 points. You know that's not sitting well with the reigning champs. Those defeats place the Heat in arguably their most motivated spot of the entire season. In addition, these two haven't met since Dec. 6 and a lot has changed since then. The Knicks have come back down to earth while the Heat have regained their championship form. The Heat have won 13 in a row and are a perfect 5-0 ATS on the road during this stretch with marquee double-digit wins at OKC and Chicago. The Knicks are just 3-4 in their last 7, including 0-4 ATS at home during this stretch with one of the losses coming via blowout to the Clippers. Miami has been blowing out good teams on the road while the Knicks were blown out at home by the best team they've faced recently. Miami is in better form and will be extremely hungry. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Raptors +5.5
The Key: Motivated by three consecutive defeats and further fueled by 8 straight losses to the Bucks, the Raptors will have no trouble getting up for this one. Milwaukee has won its last two but neither win came by more than 5 points. In fact, the Bucks haven't recorded a win of more than 5 points since Feb. 2. It is also worth noting that each of their last six games have been decided by 5 or less so I'm liking the 5.5 on our side. The Bucks are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games overall and 17-35 ATS in their last 52 home games. The Raptors, meanwhile, are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 road games, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing without a day of rest and 13-6-1 ATS in their last 20 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400 and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a losing road record. Lastly, the road team is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Heat -8
The Key: Not only will Miami be the fresher side, it will be the hungrier side. The Heat have had 2 full days of rest while the Grizzlies have had just 1. Miami has lost two straight to Memphis going back to last season, including an embarrassing 18-point defeat in this season's prior meeting, so it will be out to make a major statement here. The Heat have been deadly of late when rested. In fact, they are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games when playing on 2 days' rest. They have also shown they can rise to the occasion against quality competition, as evidence by the fact they are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. The home team is 15-5 ATS in the last 20 meetings, and the Grizzlies are 2-7 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Miami. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Celtics -4
The Key: Boston will be the much fresher team tonight as it hasn't played since Monday. It doesn't play again until Tuesday so I'm expecting a great effort tonight. This will be Golden State's 4th road game in 6 days so I have to question how much it will have left in the tank. The Celtics have been outstanding at home where they are 7-0 in their last 7 with an average winning margin of 8.9 points. They have also been strong versus the Warriors at home where they are 4-0 in their last 4 with an average winning margin or 12.3 points. Golden State has really struggled on the road where it has dropped 7 of its last 8. The 7 losses have come by an average of 16.0 points and all of them came by at least 4. Lay the number.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Jazz -4.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats to the Clippers and Celtics, and with last month's 8-point loss in Atlanta also stoking the fire, expect Utah to take care of business on its home floor tonight. Atlanta has won 3 in a row, but wins over the Kings, Bucks and Pistons don't mean much. The Jazz are 21-7 at home where they have wins over the Nuggets, Spurs, Heat, Pacers and Thunder. If the Jazz can polish off these teams, they can certainly handle the Hawks in what is a highly motivate spot. The Jazz are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games versus a team with a winning road record and 18-7 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games over the last 2 seasons. Atlanta is on a 59-84 ATS slide as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points and a 7-21 ATS skid after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games. Lastly, the favorite is 14-5 ATS in the last 19 meetings. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Magic +10
The Key: The 76ers have gone from a double-digit dog (Sunday at NY) to a double-digit favorite, and I believe it's too big of a jump. The Magic are certainly struggling, but so are the 76ers, who haven't won by double digits very many times this season. One of their double-digit wins did come against Orlando, who scored only 61 points on 27 of 80 shooting (1 of 12 from 3-point range). That was arguably Orlando's worst showing of the season, and it will be very motivated here as a result. Philly played the Knicks tough and covered the number last time out but is a soft 3-8 ATS in its last 11 games following an ATS win. The schedule isn't on its side here either as this will be its third game in four days. Orlando, on the other hand, has had two days of rest so it should be the fresher team. Also, consider that road underdogs that have failed to cover the number in 12 or more of their last 15 games are 106-61 ATS since 1996. February road dogs that check in off five or more consecutive losses are 34-14 ATS the last five seasons. The Magic are 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 games following a double-digit loss at home, 43-21-2 ATS in their last 66 games following a loss of more than 10 points, 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings and 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Philadelphia. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Jazz -6.5
The Key: This is a terrible scheduling spot for Boston, which will be playing its fifth road game in seven days. Utah, which will be playing just its third game in seven days, will be the much fresher side. The Celtics are just 6-14 ATS in their last 20 road games. They are 4-13 ATS in road games after playing 2 consecutive road games over the last 2 seasons and 6-16 ATS on the road when playing the second game of a back-to-back. While Boston has struggled on the road, Utah has been lights out at home where it is 21-6 on the season. The Jazz are 37-24 ATS in home games over the last 2 seasons, 13-4 ATS in home games against non-conference opponents during this span and 23-10 ATS in home games after a game where they failed to cover the spread during this stretch. The Jazz were handled by the Clippers Saturday but are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss of more than 10 points. It is also worth noting that the home team is 5-1-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the favorite is 5-0-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Pistons +3
The Key: After being embarrassed by Indiana Friday and Saturday, I expect the Pistons to respond tonight. Atlanta has won back-to-back games and four of its last five, but these wins have come against Dallas, Orlando, Sacramento and Milwaukee. In other words, the Hawks are getting too much respect from oddsmakers for wins that aren't overly impressive. As a 1.5-point dog, Detroit won 85-84 at home against the Hawks Jan. 4. Looking back further, the Pistons have won two straight and 12 of the last 15 at home in the series. The Hawks are just 1-4-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings, and 1-5-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Detroit. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Trailblazers -2
The Key: Portland has lost seven in a row but six of those came on the road. Now it's back home where it is 17-9 and I expect it to get off the snide against the road-weary Celtics. This will be Boston's fourth road game in six days, and that has to be wearing on a team that is just 9-17 on the road this season. Portland, meanwhile, is playing just its second game in five days so it should definitely be the fresher side. The Celtics check in off a blowout win at Phoenix but are 11-23 ATS the last three seasons after a blowout win by 15 points or more. They are 5-15 ATS during this span when off a road win of 10 points or more. Lay the small number with Portland.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Timberwolves +1.5
The Key: Off Friday's big home win over San Antonio, expect the Warriors to suffer a letdown on the road where they are on an 0-5 SU and ATS slide. Minnesota was pounded by Oklahoma City in its last game, and it has lost each of the season's first two meetings with Golden State so it will be lacking no motivation. The Warriors are a soft 6-17 ATS in road games the last three seasons when checking in off two or more consecutive wins. They are an even softer 0-7 ATS this season in road games after successfully covering the spread in two or more consecutive games. They have lost by a whopping 13.8 points on average in this situation. Take the Timberwolves.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Pistons +3.5
The Key: Detroit has lost each of the season's first three meetings with the Pacers with each loss coming by double digits. The Pistons were completely and utterly humiliated (114-82) at Indiana last night, and I expect them to do something about it here. The Pacers have cruised to a pair of blowout victories since the All-Star Break, but both of those were at home. They haven't been the same team on the road where they have dropped four of six with a loss to lowly Orlando during this stretch. Plus, the Pacers are just 2-12 ATS since 1996 in road games following 2 straight blowout wins of 15 points or more. Detroit, on the other hand, is 18-6 ATS in home games the last three seasons after a blowout loss by 15 points or more. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Trailblazers +9
The Key: The Lakers are being overvalued here following their decisive win over Boston. We are getting additional line value because the Blazers have lost their last six. Consider that road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points are 31-10 ATS the last 5 seasons provided they check in with 6 or more consecutive defeats and the game takes place in the second half of the season. The public loves the Lakers and books love to take advantage of that by jacking up their lines, especially after a big win. As a result, the Lakers are 16-36 ATS in their last 52 games following a win and 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Blazers have been struggling on the defensive end and have been struggling to keep teams off the board. However, the Lakers are 0-8 ATS in home games in the second half of the season the L3 seasons versus poor defensive teams that allow their opponents to shoot 46% or better. The Lakers have defeated these teams on average but only by 4.0 points. Also, Portland is 8-0 ATS in the second half of the season the L3 seasons versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game. The Blazers have actually defeated these foes by an average of 7.1 points. The Trailblazers are 18-7 ATS in the last 25 meetings, and the underdog is 24-11 ATS in the last 35 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Nets -1.5
The Key: Expect a letdown from the Rockets as they head out on the road, where they are only 11-18, following a big revenge win against the Thunder. The Nets, who are 20-10 at home, are playing well and will be hungry to avenge last month's loss in Houston. The Nets are a reliable 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400. Brooklyn has also been a fantastic investment when entering with momentum on its side. It is 13-5 ATS when checking in with 2 or more consecutive wins this season. The Rockets have not been playing good defense. They have managed to outscore teams but will have a tough time doing that against a Brooklyn squad that ranks in the top 5 in scoring defense. Consider that Houston is 3-15 ATS in road games after allowing 100 points or more in 2 straight games over the last 2 seasons. Lastly, the home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the favorite is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Spurs +3.5
The Key: The Spurs have owned the Clippers over the years. In fact, they are 52-13 against the Clipps since 1996, including 24-8 on the road during this span. San Antonio is looking to make one more run at a championship with its current nucleus and the Clippers appear to be one of the teams standing in their way. LA has won the season's first two matchups so I expect the Spurs to treat this one like Game 7 of Finals. They'll be out to make a statement to the Clippers that they're not all washed up yet. The Spurs are on an impressive 23-10 ATS run when out for revenge for an upset defeat to a foe. They have won by an average score of 102.5 to 94.8 in these games. They are also on a 34-19 ATS run when out for revenge for two straight upset losses to a foe. They have won by an average score of 97.2 to 90.1 in this spot. The Spurs are 14-6 ATS in the last 20 meetings and 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings in Los Angeles. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Magic +11
The Key: It's common for teams to be rusty in their first game back from the All-Star break. The Magic certainly looked rusty last night when they lost to lowly Charlotte. That loss actually serves us well as they will be hungry because of it and have had a game to shake off the rust. This is Dallas' first game back and it will have a tough time stretching this one out. Of the 9 NBA games that took place last night, the home team won by double-digits in just one of them. The road team won 6 of them straight up. And, the road team covered the number in 7 of the 9 matchups. This just goes to show you the way the books like to overvalue the home side following the break. Consider that plays on any cold team that has failed to cover the spread in 12 or more of its last 15 games, providing it is up against an opponent that has covered the number in 5 or 6 of its last 7 games, are 61-26 ATS since 1996. Orlando is 13-4 ATS in road games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons. Also, teams headed up by Rick Carlisle are just 26-52 ATS all-time as a favorite of 10 or more points. Take the points.

6* Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Knicks +3.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats as well as a five-point loss in Indiana last month, expect the Knicks to take care of business here. The Knicks have been an extremely valuable underdog. In fact, they are 51-30 ATS as an underdog over the last 3 seasons. In addition, New York is an outstanding 29-11 ATS as a road underdog of 6 points or less during this span. Indiana has been good at home this season but it should be noted that it is only 9-21 ATS when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) over the last 3 seasons. The Knicks are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings and the underdog is 12-4 ATS in the last 16 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Nuggets -8
The Key: The All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time for Denver, which saw its 9-game win streak come to an end with 3 consecutive losses on the road in a span of 4 days. One of those was a 4-point loss at Boston in a game that went into triple-OT. Denver will certainly be motivated to return the favor. The break came at a bad time for Boston which had won 8 of 9 since learning the Rondo would miss the remainder of the season. The break brings an end to the momentum the Celtics had going while it gives the Nuggets time to regroup. 7 of Boston's last 8 wins have come at home. It is not the same team on the road where it is on a 1-4 ATS slide. It is also 3-8 ATS in its last 11 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Nuggets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games, 17-8 ATS in home games this season and 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games following a loss. They are also 40-19-2 ATS in their last 61 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest and 30-14 ATS when playing 6 or less games in 14 days over the last 3 seasons. The Celtics are on a 21-35 ATS slide when playing with 3 or more days' rest. Denver is 51-33 ATS as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points under coach Karl. Also, the home team is 16-5 ATS in the last 21 meetings, the favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings and the Celtics are 1-7 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Denver. The Nuggets have won 3 in a row at home against the Celtics and 2 of those came by 9 points or more. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Thunder -4.5
The Key: Motivated by Tuesday's double-digit loss at Utah and further fueled by a 6-point loss at Miami in the season's first meeting, expect the Thunder to have a small measure of revenge against the team that beat them in last year's Finals. Consider that favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that check in off a road loss of 10 points or more, provided they have won 60 or more of their games on the season, are 264-184 ATS since 1996. That's a 59% success rate over a 17-year span. The Thunder are 9-1 ATS this season following an upset loss. They are also on a 10-2 ATS run in home games when out for revenge for a loss to an opponent. In addition, they are 7-0 ATS in home games this season when checking in with wins in 4 of their last 5 games. They are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a loss of more than 10 points and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Lastly, the home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Timberwolves -2
The Key: The Jazz are just 9-18 on the road, and I expect their road struggles to continue here. Off last night's huge win against the Thunder, I believe they'll go into All-Star Break mode early. The Jazz are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games when playing without a day of rest, 5-14 ATS as a road underdog this season and 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following a win of more than 10 points. They are also 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a losing record and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win. Utah won the season's first meeting handily (by 22) but teams headed up by Rick Adelman are on a 30-13 ATS run when out for revenge for a road blowout loss of 20 points or more to an opponent. Lastly, the home team is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings, and the favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Jazz +6
The Key: Utah is tough as nails on its home floor, and it will be hungry to end a two-game slide tonight. It will also be motivated by a 12-point loss at Oklahoma City in the season's first meeting. It's been a while since the Thunder have played a high-intensity game as they check in off four consecutive blowouts. Plus, I believe they'll be looking ahead to Thursday's showdown with the Heat, which beat them in last season's Finals and in this season's first meeting. Home underdogs that have failed to cover the number in 4 of their last 5 games that are matched up against a team that has covered the spread in 6 or 7 of its last 8 games are 31-6 ATS the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting into this situation have caught 5.4 points on average but have won outright by an average of 1.8. Take the points.

7* NBA Pre-All-Star Break Game of the Year on Bobcats +4.5
The Key: This is a tough spot for Boston, which checks in off yesterday's triple-OT win. The Celtics won't have the legs to pull away from a Charlotte team that has a day of rest on its side. The Celtics are a soft 18-32 ATS when playing without a day of rest over the last 3 seasons. It is also worth noting that they are 4-11 ATS in their last 15 road games, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games versus a team with a losing home record and 4-13 ATS in their last 17 road games when listed as a favorite of 6 points or less. In addition, plays against favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have successfully covered the spread in 4 or more consecutive games, provided they have a winning percentage between 45-55% on the season, are 29-6 ATS the last 5 seasons. This system is a perfect 3-0 ATS this season. Lastly, the underdog is 17-6-1 ATS in the last 24 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Suns +8.5
The Key: Off back-to-back losses, including a humiliating 127-96 loss in Oklahoma City last game, expect the Suns to bounce back strong this evening. Phoenix is a phenomenal 21-7 ATS in its last 28 games after allowing more than 125 points in its previous game. Nothing gets a team to tighten the screws on defense like getting completely whacked. The Thunder are often overvalued following big wins. In fact, they are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games following a victory. They are also only 2-5 ATS in their last 7 road games. OKC has lost 2 straight and 4 of 6 on the road. Take the points.

6* NBA Play of the Day on Mavericks -5.5
The Key: This is a difficult scheduling spot for the struggling Warriors to say the least. They just lost a tough one in Memphis last night and this will be their 4th road game in 5 days. Dallas, meanwhile,, has had 2 days of rest and will be very hungry as it has lost the season's first two meetings. Consider that home favorites that are playing only their 2nd game in 5 days that are up against an opponent playing their 4th game in 5 days are 33-9 ATS the last 5 seasons. This system is already 4-1 ATS this season. Lay the points.

6* NBA Bailout (ESPN) on Bulls +4
The Key: After getting completely embarrassed in Denver last night, I expect the Bulls to bounce-back strong here. Prior to losses of 10 and 32 points in its last two road games, Chicago had won or lost by 4 points or less in 8 of 9 road contests. It has wins over the Knicks and Heat during this stretch so it clearly has what it takes to get the job done tonight in this highly motivated spot. The Bulls are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA but haven't looked like it in their last two games. I expect last night's ugly effort to be the wake-up call they need. Consider that they are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. The Bulls are also 13-6 ATS in their last 19 road games versus a team with a winning home record. Chicago has won 3 straight against Utah and is 7-2 ATS in the last 9 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Pistons +5
The Key: The Spurs are expected to be without Duncan and Ginobli tonight, but I like Detroit in this spot regardless of who San Antonio sends out there. The Spurs have won 11 in a row but have benefited from a pretty soft slate of games. They haven't faced a single elite team during this stretch and have faced the likes of Minnesota (twice), Philly, New Orleans, Phoenix, Dallas, Charlotte and Washington. All of these teams are well below .500. Detroit is far from elite and also fits into this category of teams that are well below .500 but it has been very competitive at home and we are getting a good number because of San Antonio's winning streak. The Pistons are 8-5 in their last 13 at home with 3 of the losses during this stretch coming by 3 points or less. The Pistons have wins over the Heat, Hawks and Celtics during this stretch so they are capable of beating quality teams on their home floor. It is also worth acknowledging San Antonio's struggles in Detroit. The Spurs are just 3-2 in their last 5 visits with only 1 of the wins coming by more than 5 points. The Spurs are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400 and 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in this series. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Raptors +7.5
The Key: Indiana is getting a little too much respect from oddsmakers tonight. Toronto has been extremely competitive of late. It is just 3-9 in its last 12 games but only two of these losses came by more than 7 points. Plus, the Raptors have played the Pacers very tough. Each of the season's first two meetings have been decided by 2 points with the Raptors winning on this floor. While Indiana will be out to avenge that loss, we can't ignore the fact that this will be its 4th game in 5 days. This will be Toronto's second game in 5 days so it will be the fresher team. Also, the Pacers haven't defeated Toronto by more than 5 in any of the last 6 meetings. Plays against home teams that are out for revenge for a close loss of 3 points or less to an opponent, provided they are coming off a road win of 10 points or more, are 25-7 ATS the last 5 seasons. Take the points.

7* NBA Total of the Week on Bulls/Nuggets Under 196.5
The Key: With Hinrich out, Belinelli doubtful and Noah questionable, the Bulls could be down a few key players tonight. They know they can't afford to get into a track meet with Denver so I expect them to take the air out of the ball every chance they get. Plus, Chicago is one of the best defensive teams in the league but didn't look like it last time out when it gave up 111 points to Indiana. That poor performance should fuel a strong defensive effort tonight. Consider that the Bulls are 15-4 UNDER since Thibodeau took over after allowing 105 points or more in their last game. The Nuggets can put up points in bunches, but the Bulls are also 17-5 UNDER under coach Thibs versus explosive offensive teams that score 103+ points/game. Take the UNDER as fresh Chicago team that has had 2 days of rest really gets after it on "D" tonight.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Hornets -6
The Key: New Orleans steps back on the floor at home tonight after losing 4 in a row on the road. It will be the much fresher side and will be lacking no motivation. The Hornets were buried in their last two games and have dropped 4 straight to the Suns so I expect the to be hungry. They will benefit from having had 3 days of rest while the Suns face the difficult task of playing a second game on the road in as many nights. The Hornets are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest while the Suns are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games when playing without a days' rest. The Hornets are also 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games following a loss of more than 10 points. Lay the number.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on 76ers -2.5
The Key: This will be Indiana's third game in as many days, and I don't think it will have enough left in the tank to get the job done. The 76ers have been solid at home all season while the Pacers have struggled on the road. The Pacers are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games versus a team with a winning home record while the 76ers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games versus a team with a losing road record. The 76ers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 home games overall. The Pacers held the Hawks to only 5 offensive boards last night, but they'll have a tough time keeping Philly off the glass with as fatigued as they will be. Plus, the Pacers are 0-9 ATS after a game of giving up 5 or less offensive rebounds over the last 2 seasons. Expect second-chance opportunities for the 76ers to lead to a win and cover.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Raptors -3
The Key: Boston has won 4 straight without Rondo, but I believe it gets hit with a harsh dose of reality tonight. Each of those 4 wins came at home. It won't be as easy on the road where the Celtics are 3-11 ATS in their last 14 road games. Boston is even 4-15 ATS in road games when playing against bad teams (Win Pct. 25% to 40%) over the last 3 seasons. The Raptors were kicked by Miami last time out but are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points and are expected to get Andrea Bargnani back tonight. Also, it is extremely important to note that the home team is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings. Toronto has won its last 2 home meetings with Boston by 5 and 12 points. Lay the number.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Suns +9
The Key: I don't think the well-rested Suns are getting quite enough respect from oddsmakers here. They are coming off back-to-back double-digit losses but those came on consecutive nights. They have had 2 days to gear up for this one and are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing on 2 days' rest. The Grizzlies have had 3 days' rest, but I believe they will be looking past Phoenix, which they defeated by 11 a month ago, and ahead to tomorrow night's revenge showdown with Atlanta, which beat them by 10 on this floor earlier this season. The Suns have won or lost to the Grizzlies by fewer than 9 points in 26 of the last 32 meetings. I'll gladly grab the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Bobcats +13.5
The Key: The Heat are being overvalued here as they so often are following an emphatic victory. They are just 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following a win and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Bobcats have been smoked in their last two and have also been smoked in three straight versus Miami so they will be lacking no motivation here. Plus, plays against favorites of 10 or more points that average 99 points or more per game and gave up 85 points or less last game are 151-96 (61.1%) ATS since 1996. These teams have been favored by 12.5 points on average but have won by just 11.2 points on average. This system is a potent 30-15 (67%) ATS the last 3 seasons. Lastly, the Bobcats are 5-2-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Miami. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Heat -4.5
The Key: Off Friday's embarrassing double-digit loss in Indiana, expect the reigning NBA champs to bounce back strong this afternoon. The Raptors, on the other hand, are primed for a letdown following their blowout victory over the Clippers. Miami typically responds following defeat. In fact, they have won by an average of 22.0 points following their last 3 defeats. The Heat are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss. It is also worth noting that the Heat are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400 while the Raptors are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. Miami is 9-0 in its last 9 games versus Toronto, and it has won these by an average of 11.6 points. Lay the points as the champs respond in this highly motivated spot.

6* NBA Play of the Day on Cavs +10
The Key: The Thunder are 15-8 on the road but don't often win via blowout away from home. In fact, they have won by more than 10 points just once in their last six road games. The Thunder are coming off a blowout win against Memphis but are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win. The Cavs just played last night and showed poorly in Detroit, but they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing without a day of rest and 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games following an ATS loss. Lastly, the home team is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Magic +9.5
The Key: Boston is being seriously overvalued tonight. The Celtics have won two straight without Rondo but their success without one of the top point guards in the NBA won't continue. The Magic have lost seven in a row but four of those defeats came by six points or less. Orlando desperately wants to end this skid and would take great pleasure in doing so against Boston, a team it has lost to six straight times. Keep in mind that the last three losses have come by eight points or less. The Magic are 40-17-2 ATS in their last 59 games following a loss of more than 10 points while the Celtics are 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Magic are also 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Celtics are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. Lastly, February road teams that check in with six or more consecutive losses are 24-5 ATS the last 5 seasons. These teams have been underdogs of 8.7 points on average but have lost by just 1.9 points on average. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Bucks +5.5
The Key: Milwaukee has been playing some outstanding basketball and has won eight of its last 12 games as a result so Wednesday's double-digit loss to the Bulls can't be sitting well. The Bucks will be further motivated by a double-digit loss to the Knicks in the season's first meeting. The Bucks have been tremendous lately in bounce-back spots. They are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU loss and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss. They are also 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss of more than 10 points. In addition, the Bucks are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 road games while the Knicks are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games. Milwaukee is 12-4 ATS in the last 16 meetings in the series and 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings in New York. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Cavaliers +4.5
The Key: The Pistons struggled at Indiana in their first game after trading forwards Tayshaun Prince and Austin Daye, and I expect their struggles to continue. Prince was averaging nearly 12 points and five boards and provided veteran leadership to a young team. Cleveland had its three-game winning streak snapped by Golden State in its last time but Kyrie Irving, who was ill, went just 5 of 17 from the field for 14 points. He had averaged 35.7 points and shot 61.2 percent in the previous three contests. Detroit has won the season's first two meetings but Irving didn't play in either. With a healthy Irving on the floor tonight, I expect the Cavs to have their revenge. The Cavaliers are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 road games while the Pistons are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 home games. The Cavs are also 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Detroit. Take the points.

7* TNT Total of the Month on Grizzlies/Thunder Under 191.5
The Key: We saw 204 total points scored when these two last met back in November in Oklahoma City, but I don't see the Thunder giving up 107 points to the Grizzlies on their home floor again, especially since Memphis will be without leading scorer Rudy Gay (traded) and likely won't have its new acquisitions available. Gay went for 28 in the first meeting so not having him on the floor will be a blow to the offense in the short term. The Thunder will tighten the screws defensively tonight after giving up 105 points to the Lakers last game. Memphis always brings the "D" and it knows it must be especially good on the defensive end tonight if it's going to hang with the defending Western Conference champs. The Grizzlies lead the NBA in scoring defense with 89.5 points allowed per game and are 19-7-1 Under in their last 27 games as a result. The Under is 37-18-1 in the Grizzlies' last 56 road games and 22-7 in their last 29 road games versus teams with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. The Thunder have had 3 days off so we can expect maximum effort from them on the defensive end. They have played to the under in 7 of their last 9 games when taking the floor on 3 days rest or more. Bet the Under.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Suns +3
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back losses on the road to the Spurs and Mavs, and further fueled by a 12-point road loss to the Lakers in the season's first meeting, I expect the Suns to leave it all out on the floor tonight. Phoenix hasn't played since Sunday so it will be the much fresher team (the Lakers just played last night). L.A. has won 3 in a row, but all 3 came at home. The Lakers haven't been the same team on the road where they are 5-15 on the season and 0-7 in their last 7. The Lakers are 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. They are also 4-12-1 ATS in their last 17 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400 and 1-6 ATS in their last 7 road games. The Suns are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400. Lastly and most importantly, we can't underestimate home court in this series. The home team is 5-0 SU and ATS in the last 5 meetings with each of these wins coming by at least 12 points. Take the Suns.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Timberwolves +4.5
The Key: Motivated by 4 consecutive losses and a 90-77 home loss to the Clippers earlier this month, I expect the Timberwolves to give L.A. all it wants and more this evening. The Clippers snapped a 4-game losing streak last time out, but I'm not ready to lay this many points with them on the road. Not against a team that is looking for revenge, and not with Chris Paul at less than 100%. The Clippers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games overall and even 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a losing record. The Timberwolves,meanwhile, are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games versus a team with a winning road record. It is also worth noting that the underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Trailblazers -2
The Key: Motivated by Sunday's 13-point loss in LA to the Clippers and further fueled by an embarrassing 23-point loss in Dallas earlier this season, I expect Portland to bounce back strong tonight. First off, the Blazers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points. Portland has won its last 2 at home and is a respectable 15-8 at home on the season. The Mavs, meanwhile, are 7-16 on the road. Dallas has won its last 2 on the road but those came against Orlando and Sacramento. Prior to those wins, it had lost 3 straight and 9 of 10 away from home. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Cavs +1.5
The Key: The Cavs, which are 3-0 SU and ATS in their last 3 games, are playing well and find themselves in a solid situation tonight. They will be the fresher team as they will be working on 2 days' rest while the Warriors will be playing their second road game in as many nights and their fourth road game in 5 days. To make matters worse, the Warriors could be down several key pieces. Curry and Bogut are doubtful and Barnes is questionable. Because the Cavs have the advantage in terms of fresh legs, and because the Warriors are banged up, I like Cleveland here even if Kyrie Irving isn't able to go. He is currently listed as questionable with an illness. The Cavaliers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning record and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 2 days' rest. Bet Cleveland.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Pacers +5.5
The Key: With back-to-back losses to Portland and Utah stoking the fire, and with a three-point home loss to Denver in the season's first meeting adding to their level of motivation, expect the Pacers to give the Nuggets all they want and more tonight. The Nuggets have won the last three in the series but their last two wins have come by just four and three points, respectively. Keep in mind the underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. The Pacers have typically been strong in bounce back spots as they are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss and 11-3 ATS this season following a road loss. The Nuggets are a good home team and Indiana is playing below .500 ball on the road, but I believe the Nuggets are being overvalued as a result. Consider that Denver is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 home games versus a team with a losing road record. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Clippers -7.5
The Key: Off four consecutive losses, including a one-point heartbreaker in Portland last night, expect the Clippers to dig down deep here. LA is 31-18 ATS when out for revenge for a loss to an opponent over the last two seasons and it is 13-5 ATS this season as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points. It has won these games by an average score of 101.5 to 89.6. It is also worth noting that the Blazers are a soft 8-21 ATS in road games after 1 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons. They have lost in this situation by an average of 9.5 points. Lay the number.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Celtics +4
The Key: Miami has struggled on the road where it is just 10-9 and Boston will be hungry to snap a 6-game skid. Plus, this is a game the Celtics want badly for other reasons. They were knocked out of the playoffs by Miami last season and lost the season's first meeting to the Heat in Miami. Plus, KG and company hate the fact Ray Allen bailed on them. They want to show the Heat they are still a force to be reckoned with. The Celtics have won 15 of their last 17 home games against the Heat and are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 home games in the series. Boston plays a lot of nationally televised games on Sunday and it has been awesome in the home ones. Consider that Boston is 12-2 ATS in home games on Sunday over the last 3 seasons and has won these by an average score of 94.7 to 83.2. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on 76ers +3.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back losses to the Spurs and Bucks and further fueled by a pair of blowout defeats to the Knicks in the season's first two meetings, expect this rested 76ers squad to come alive tonight. The 76ers will no doubt be the fresher team and they are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest. Also, Philly is on an 11-2 ATS run when checking into a matchup with losses in 8 of more of its last 10 games. It has actually won by an average score of 95.8 to 89.8 in this situation. The Knicks check in off Thursday's big win at Boston but are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games following a SU win and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following an ATS win. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Lakers -5
The Key: Motivated by four consecutive losses and defeats in each of the season's first two meetings with Utah, I expect the Lakers to come alive at home tonight. The Lakers have been respectable on their home floor where they are 12-10. 11 of their 12 home wins have come by 5 points or more so when they win they typically win by a comfortable margin. The Jazz are just 9-15 SU and 9-14-1 ATS on the road and are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 road games versus teams that have a winning home record. In addition, the Lakers are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games following a loss of more than 10 points. LA is sick of hearing it might not make the playoffs. It is sick of hearing that this team is a failure. I expect it to play some very desperate basketball to make a statement tonight. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Kings +9.5
The Key: The Thunder are being overvalued in Sacramento tonight. They won the season's first meeting by just 10 points at home, and they'll have a tough time posting another double-digit win over the Kings on the road. The Kings have been extremely competitive at home where they have won or lost by less than 10 points in 14 of their last 18 games. In addition, they have won or lost by less than 10 points in 7 of 8 all-time home meetings versus the OKC Thunder. It bodes well for us that Sacramento enters off a poor performance against the Suns as it is on a 28-13 ATS run off an upset loss by 10 points or more at home. It has won by an average score of 106.1 to 102.0 in this situation. Take the points.

6* NBA Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Houston Rockets +2.5
The Key: The value clearly lies with the Rockets here. Houston was a two-point favorite when it lost in New Orleans Jan. 9, and now it finds itself as a 2.5-point dog. That's two big of a line swing considering the Rockets won the season's first two meetings. The Hornets are just 7-14 at home this season so they can definitely be had at home. Houston is 8-14 on the road so it actually has a slightly better road mark than New Orleans has at home. It is significant that New Orleans played its last game on the road since it is 1-10 ATS in home games after playing a road game this season. It has lost by an average score of 96.3 to 87.1 in this situation. Also, Houston is on a 46-27 ATS run in road games when it checks in with 6 or 7 losses in its last 8 games. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Magic -3.5
The Key: As if 3 consecutive defeats aren't enough motivation, the Magic have lost each of the season's first 3 meetings with the Raptors. They were absolutely embarrassed (123-88) at home when these two last met, and I expect them to do something about it here. It is also significant that they took it on the chin at Detroit in their last game. That's because they are 40-15-2 ATS in their last 57 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Raptors just lost an overtime game in Miami against the defending champs last night and will have a tough time getting up for this one both physically and emotionally as a result. Lay the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Trailblazers -1
The Key: As if 6 consecutive losses aren't enough motivation, the Blazers have lost 3 straight to Indiana. I'll lay this small number with the home team in this highly motivated spot. Indiana has won back-to-back games which means it's time to start fading away. Consider that the Pacers are 2-10 ATS after 2 or more consecutive wins this season. Also, the Pacers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600 and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following a S.U. win. The Trailblazers are 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600 and 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games versus a team with a winning record. The favorite is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Lay the number.

7* NBA Humpday *HEAVY HITTER* on Jazz -7
The Key: Washington has won 5 of 7 and has covered the spread in each of these 7 games and is being overvalued as a result. Utah won the season's first meeting by 7 points on the road and it won the most recent meeting in Utah by 14. It has won 5 of its last 6 at home versus the Wizards with 4 of these wins coming by at least 14 points. The Jazz are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games, 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a losing record, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400 and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400. It is also significant that Washington enters off a narrow win at Portland. That's because it is 0-8 ATS in road games after a close win by 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons. It has lost by an average score of 113.9 to 99.0 in these games. Lay the points.

6* NBA "Total" Dominator on Thunder/Clippers Under 201
The Key: With neither of these teams wanting to drop a second straight game, I'm expecting a very hotly contested defensive battle this evening. It is significant that the Thunder check in off an upset loss at Denver as they are 17-6 Under following an upset loss over the last 2 seasons. We have seen just 196.1 total points scored in these games on average. Also, plays Under on road teams when the total is 200 to 209.5 that are off an upset loss on the road, provided they have a winning record and are playing another winning team, are 62-24 since 1996. This system is 15-3 the last 3 seasons and 5-1 this season. Bet the Under.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Bucks -6.5
The Key: It's going to be tough for Philly to turn right around and bring enough energy to the floor tonight following last night's tough loss to San Antonio. The Bucks, meanwhile, should be confident following back-to-back wins on the road and fresh as they haven't played since Saturday. The 76ers will be looking for a revenge for a 9-point loss at home in the season's first meeting but consider that plays against underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are out for revenge for a home loss to an opponent, provided they check in off a cover at home in a game they lost straight up, are 23-6 ATS the last 5 seasons. These teams have been underdogs of 6.8 points on average and have lost by an average of 11.1 points. The 76ers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games and 7-19 ATS in their last 26 games when playing without a day of rest. The Bucks are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing with 2 days' rest. Lay the number.

6* NBA on TNT *CA$H COW* on 76ers +6.5
The Key: I like the 76ers catching points at home here as they have the edge in terms of fresh legs and will be highly motivated to avenge an embarrassing loss earlier this month in San Antonio. Philly has had 2 days off since its last game. It had 2 days off prior to that game as well, 2 days off prior to the one before that and 2 days off prior to the one before that. In other words, the 76ers should be very fresh. San Antonio, on the other hand, will be playing its 3rd game in 4 days. Tim Duncan will be rested as he got Saturday off but the rest of the Spurs figure to be a step slower than the 76ers in this one. The Spurs are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on 1 days' rest. The 76ers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 2 days' rest. The home team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings. The underdog is 17-6 ATS in the last 23 meetings, and the Spurs are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Philadelphia. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Hawks -7.5
The Key: Off back-to-back narrow defeats to the Nets and Spurs, and further fueled by a 5-point loss at Minnesota earlier this month, the Hawks will be extremely hungry when they hit the floor this afternoon. The T-Wolves enter off an upset win over Houston but are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following an ATS win. Minnesota is just 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games overall and has struggled on the road where it is on a 0-4 SU and ATS slide. These 4 losses have come by an average of 16.8 points. Prior to losing to a very good Spurs team in its last home game, Atlanta had rattled off back-to-back home wins over Utah and Brooklyn by 8 and 14 points, respectively. Lay the number.