The Utah Jazz look to close out their series with the Denver Nuggets tonight. The Jazz lost game one to Denver and have since won three straight. Utah has had little trouble scoring against Denver with 125, 124, 124 and 129 points in their four games. Denver finally broke a two-game scoring drought with 127 points in game four, but still came up short. I don't see any reason to change in tonight's contest. I'm going to take the OVER here in game four.

The Denver Nuggets won the opener in this series and since then it's been downhill. The Nuggets lost game two, 105-124 and then got blown out in game three, 87-124. That makes today's game four a very important one for the Nuggets. They can ill afford to go down 1-3 in this series. The Nuggets need to regroup on defense and keep the Jazz from score 120+ points here today, as they have done in all three games. They also need to find the offense again too. The key here today is not to get out to another slow start for the Nuggets. I look for them to come out aggressive and get away from being down big in the first quarter. I have to give them a shot here, their collective backs are up against the wall and they are too good a team to go down like this. Take Denver.

The Lakers flexed their muscles in game two of their series with the Blazers. After losing game one in bad fashion they rebounded with a resounding shutdown of the high scoring Portland offense, winning game two easily. The Lakers look to continue that here in game three. The Blazers realize that they need to play more of an uptempo game against the Lakers. The Blazers are led by Damian Lillard, who has been unstopable up until game two of this series. Problem for Blazers is that he hurt his index finger in game two, dislocating the finger. He will be playing today in game three, but how will this effect his play? Lilliard had only 18-points before leaving in the 3rd quarter with his injury. For me, even with a healthy Lilliard the Lakers have found out how to shut down this offense of the Blazers. Number a bit high for me here today, so I will go with the UNDER.

The Portland Trailblazers and LA Lakers play game two of their best of seven series. The Blazers have been basically in the playoffs since they returned, as every game was crucial to them making the postseason. They did so by beating the Grizzlies in a play-in game last Saturday, 126-122. The Blazers shocked the Lakers in game one, taking the opening stanza of this series. Damian Lillard has been unstoppable, as he collected 34 points in the game one victory. The Lakers could see the return of Rajon Rondo, who has been cleared to play and is day-to-day. Still, the Blazers will continue to pile on the points as they have done since returning to play. The Lakers will have to match the here on Thursday. Take the OVER.

Early game here on Tuesday has Houston and San Antonio squaring-off in a battle of Texas. Houston has clinched their division title and a playoff spot. Right now the Rockets are 4th in the West but could overtake 3rd place Denver which is just one game ahead of them. The San Antonio Spurs are close to elimination. The Spurs are 2-games back of the 8th and final playoff spot, currently held by Memphis. That means the Spurs can't lose here tonight or they are done. The Spurs have covered five of their last seven games. With what's on the line here tonight, I'll take San Antonio to keep their playoff lives afloat. Take San Antonio.

Philadelphia has won three straight games and sits in the 6th place in the East standings. The Sixers are just a half game from fourth place Miami with the Pacers in between. Portland still on the outside looking in as the Blazers are 9th right now, 1 1/2 games back of Memphis. That makes every game a must game for the Blazers at this point. Both sides have key injuries. The Sixers are going to be without guard Ben Simmons (16.7 ppg) who has a knee injury. The Blazers center Hassan Whiteside (16.3 ppg) is questionable with a hip injury. Portland laying a few points here. I'll have to side with the Blazers in this one as they need the win badly. Play Portland.

Clippers sitting firmly in 2nd place in the West with no hope of catching the Lakers at this point. Therefore, today expect them to be resting Kawhi Leonard, their best player. Some teams already putting it in cruise control as they await the playoffs and the Clippers might be one of those teams. Portland is one game back of the Grizzlies for that final playoff spot so this is a must win for them. I look for a big effort today out of the Blazers. Your Bubble Game of the Month is on the Blazers.

Celtics are 3rd in the East, though they did lose their opener of this restart a few nights ago to the Milwaukee Bucks, 112-119. They had the spread covered most of the game between falling back at the end. And no shame in a good game vs the NBA's top team in the Bucks. Now they play a Portland team who had to go to OT to beam Memphis on Friday, 140-135. Celtics still looks like one of the favorites and I'll lay this short 4-point line on Sunday. Play Celtics.

Opening day for the resuming of the NBA season after the Covid break. The teams are all playing from the bubble so the risk of infection might not be the same as the MLB is going through. Good news for the Pelicans is that rookie phenom Zion Williamson cleared his quarantine period and has rejoined the team at practice. The Pelicans looked in fine form when they destroyed the Nets a few days ago, 99-68. Really when Zion plays this Pelicans team wins and with him now cleared to go, I like New Orleans minus the small number. Play Pelicans.

The Atlanta Hawks are the last team in the Eastern Conference with a 17-43 record, just a half game worse than the Knicks. They have lost two straight and four of their last six games. In addition, they are 2-4-1 ATS in their last seven games overall. The Nets have done well off a loss, going 5-1 ATS in their last six after losing the game before. They are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine games with 1-day of rest. The Nets are 7-1 ATS in their last eight vs the Hawks and 5-1 ATS in their last six at Atlanta. I like the visitor in this one, play Brooklyn.

 The Detroit Pistons not only are a long ways from home, but now they have to play in the high altitude of Denver tonight. Detroit has lost six straight games and is 2-8 their last 10 games. The Pistons are 8-17-1 their last 26 as a road dog. They did cover their last game at Portland, but that's not good as they are just 5-15-1 their last 21 following an ATS win. The Denver Nuggets are 2nd in the Western Conference with a 39-18 record. They have won seven of their last 10 games. Denver is also 5-1 ATS in their last six games as a home favorite. Don't expect much fight here tonight out of the Pistons. Take Denver in a blowout win.

The New Orleans Pelicans need to pick up the pace if they hope to make the playoffs. The Pelicans are 11th in the West, five-games back of 8th place Memphis. Same goes for the Blazers who are in 9th place, 3 1/2 games back of the Grizzlies. Tonight though, I'm looking at the OVER in this contest. The Pelicans are the third highest scoring team in the West at 115.8 ppg. Bad news is that they are the worst defensive scoring team with 117.3 ppg. The Pelicans have gone over in four straight games and six of their last eight. They are 16-11 O/U on the road this year. The Portland Trailblazers have gone over in six of their last eight games and 11 of their last 14. They average 117 points per game at home and allow 115 ppg at home. This one should be very high scoring tonight. I'm taking the OVER.

The Miami Heat are having a fine season, currently fourth in the East at 34-17 on the season. They have lost two straight though and are just 5-5 in their last 10 games. Miami has a losing road record at 12-14 S/U and 11-14-1 ATS on the season. They are also getting outscored by 2.8 points per game. Portland is sitting in that bubble spot, 9th place in the West, just 2 1/2 games back of 8th place Memphis. Portland is 5-2 S/U their last seven games and 6-1 ATS. They are 14-11 S/U at home and outscoring opponents by 2.1 ppg this year. I'll lay the points with the home team here tonight against a sub-par Heat team on the road. Play Portland.

The Milwaukee Bucks are the best team in the NBA with their 43-7 overall record. They have won two straight games and nine of their last 10 games. They will host the Philadelphia 76ers tonight. The Sixers are 6th in the East with a 31-20 record and have lost three straight games. The Sixers are also 0-4 ATS in their last four games. Philly hasn't played well on the road, going 9-18 S/U and 9-17-1 ATS. Milwaukee is 23-3 S/U and 14-12 ATS at home this year and outscoring their opponents by a 13.3 point margin. Bucks just too good and right now they are the team to beat in both the East and the NBA. Take Milwaukee.

The Detroit Pistons are 11th in the East and fading fast. Detroit still trails 8th place Orlando by just four-games, but they have to do better than 4-6 in their last 10 games. The Pistons have also failed to cover five straight games and are just 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games. Detroit is 8-14-2 ATS on the road this season. Memphis is 8th in the West with a 24-25 record. They have won seven of their last 10 games. The Grizzlies have also covered four of their last five and are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games. They are 15-12 ATS at home this season. I like Memphis to win this one easily over the visiting Pistons. Take Memphis.

The Toronto Raptors have ridden a nine-game winning streak to 2nd place in the Eastern conference. The Raptors are still 7 1/2 games back of conference leading Milwaukee. The Raptors are 17-7 on the road and scoring an average of 109.6 ppg away from home. The Detroit Pistons are 10th right now in the East, 5-games back of the Nets for that 8th place spot. The Pistons have lost four straight and seven of their last 10 games. The Pistons have also seen five straight games go over and eight of their last nine go over. At home the Pistons are averaging 111.4 ppg and allowing 112.2 ppg. I expect a lot of points in this game tonight. I'm playing the OVER.

The Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic meet up tonight in a Eastern Conference clash. The Celtics have won two straight games, but are still only 4-6 in their last 10 games. The Celtics are 4th in the East with a 29-14 record while Orlando is 7th in the East at 21-24. The Magic are 5-5 in their last 10 games. The Celtics are 12-7-1 ATS on the road this season and out scoring opponents by 4.6 ppg. The Magic are 9-11-2 ATS at home and outscoring opponents by 2.6 ppg. Tonight begins a 3-game road trip for the Celtics after playing six of their last seven games at home. The Magic are the best defensive team, holding opponents to a NBA best 104.3 ppg this season. Magic did a poor job though in their last game, allowing 120 points to Oklahoma City. The Celtics do have some injuries though, with F Jayson Tatum out tonight (21.5 ppg) and Jaylen Brown (20 ppg) questionable with a ankle injury. Plus they are already without C Enes Kanter who has a foot injury. I look for the Magic to rebound from that poor defensive game last time. They pride themselves too much on defense to let that happen again. Take Orlando.

The San Antonio Spurs sitting just outside the playoff window at 9th in the West with a 18-23 record, 1 1/2 games back of 8th place Memphis. The Spurs playing the 2nd of a back-to-back spot here tonight after beating the Heat at home last night, 107-102. The Spurs are 8-9-2 ATS on the road this season and being outscored by 2.7 points per game. The Suns have won and covered their last two games, both on the road at Boston and New York. The Suns return home where they are 9-14 S/U and 10-12-1 ATS. They get the Spurs off that tough back-to-back spot here tonight. I'm taking the rested home team here tonight. Play Phoenix.

The Utah Jazz having a fine season as they are 23-12 S/U on the year and have won five straight games and 10 of their las 11. They have also covered six straight games. The Jazz haven't been as good on the road where they are 10-9 S/U and 9-9-1 ATS and about even on point differential. However, they play a very poor Pelicans team here tonight. New Orleans is just 12-24 S/U and 13-20-3 ATS on the season. At home, the Pelicans are 6-11 S/U and 7-10 ATS and being outscored by 1.2 points per game. Utah laying just three-points here on the road tonight. Hard to pass on this small line with a good Jazz team against a poor Pelicans club. Take Utah.

The Detroit Pistons bring their 11-17 record to Boston tonight to face the 18-7 Celtics. Detroit has dropped two straight games both S/U and ATS. They are off a loss at home against the Raptors, 99-112. The Pistons are just 4-9 S/U on the road and 4-7-2 ATS. They are getting outscored by 2.7 points on the road. The Celtics snapped a 2-game losing streak last time out with a win at Dallas, 109-103 as a 2.5-point dog. The Celtics are a good covering team at 15-9-1 ATS on the season. At home they are 10-1 S/U and 7-4 ATS and outscoring opponents by 8.7 points. I like the home club here tonight. Get on this side before the line moves too much. Play Boston.

Never thought I would put the Golden State Warriors in the phrase "Worst team in the NBA" but they hold that distinction with tonight's team, the Knicks. The Knicks and Warriors both have just 5 wins this season. The Knicks have lost nine of their last 10 games and have a league worst -10.6 point differential. The Jazz are 6th in the West with a 14-11 record. The Kings have won three straight and have covered three of their last four games. Sacramento is 6-4 S/U and 5-5 ATS at home this year with a -1.3 point differential. The Knicks have a -13.7 point differential on the road and are 2-10 S/U and 6-6 ATS. The Knicks did just cover at that other worst team, the Warriors, winning straight up, 124-122. They still have two games left on this Western road trip and they get tougher now with Sac tonight and Denver on Sunday. I'm going to lay the points here tonight in a blowout win. Take the Kings.

 Tonight's contest being played in Mexico City, Mexico has the Dallas Mavericks taking on the Detroit Pistons. The mavs are having an excellent season at 14-9 S/U and ATS. The Pistons will have to do better if they want to make a postseason, currently sitting at 10-14 S/U and 10-12-2 ATS. Dallas had its five game win streak snapped last time out vs Sacramento, 106-110. The Mavs have covered five of their last six and 10 of their last 12 games. While this isn't a true road game, they have been very good away from home, posting a 8-2 mark both S/U and ATS. The Pistons have won two straight and four of their last five both S/U and ATS. Detroit hasn't been so good away from home with a 3-9 mark S/U and 3-7-2 ATS. The Mavs just too good a road team to pass on the points here tonight. I'll take Dallas and lay the number.

Contrast of teams here today as the visiting New Orleans Pelicans are just 6-16 on the season with an 11-11 spread mark. They must face a very good Dallas Mavericks team that is 15-6 S/U and 13-8 ATS. The Pelicans have lost seven straight games and gone 1-5-1 ATS during that stretch. They are just 2-8 away from home and have been outscored by 7.7 points. Dallas is first in the Southwest Division. They have won four straight both S/U and ATS. They are also 9-1 S/U and ATS their last 10 games. The Mavs are 7-4 at home and outscore opponents by 8.3 ppg. I like the Mavs a lot in this early game. Take Dallas.

 Denver is now 13-5 S/U and 7-9-2 ATS after a 2-game losing streak to the Lakers and the Kings the last couple of outings. The Nuggets are also 4-3 ATS their last seven games. Still, the Nuggets are atop the Western Conference Northwest division. Denver is 5-2 S/U and 3-3-1 ATS on the road this year where they have outscored opponents by a 2.9 point margin. The Knicks just can't seem to do much right, off to a 4-17 S/U record. The Knicks have now lost seven straight games and are also 1-4-1 ATS their last six games. They are 3-8 S/U at home and 4-6-1 ATS. They are being outscored by a 5.6 point margin on their own court. No doubt Denver is much better. The points are a bit stiff in this one, but I'll lay them with the much better team. Play Denver.

Milwaukee looks to be the team to beat in the NBA Eastern Conference. The Bucks sit atop the conference with a 18-3 S/U record and have the highest scoring differential in the entire NBA at +12.4 ppg. The Bucks have won 10 straight games and are led by the amazing Giannis Antetokounmpo with 30.8 ppg and also leading the team in assists with 5.8 per game. The Detroit Pistons sit 9th in the East right now with a 8-13 record. The Pistons have +1 scoring differential. The Pistons are a better home team with a 6-4 record both S/U and ATS and have a +6.8 score differential. Still, the Bucks are just too good a team to pass on here tonight. Play Milwaukee.

Cleveland Cavaliers are 4-10 S/U and 6-6-2 ATS to start their season. The Cavs will find it difficult to snap their five-game losing streak here tonight. Easier might be their four-game spread losing streak as they are getting 10-points from the Mavericks. The Cavs are 2-6 S/U and 4-3-1 ATS on the road where they are getting outscored 101.9 to 107.1. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have won three straight games both S/U and ATS. They are coming off a complete white wash of the Warriors, 142-94. The Mavs are 5-3 both S/U and ATS at home where they have a +7.1 score differential. I'm going to lay the points here tonight with the home team. Play the Dallas Mavericks.

Orlando Magic now 2-5 S/U and 1-5-1 ATS on the year. The Magic had to play last night at Oklahoma City and while they hung around most of the night, they fell back late in a loss, 94-102. The Magic have yet to crack the 100 point mark this season in their seven games. Might be difficult tonight too. They are playing the second of a back-to-back spot and that's always tough on a team. Conversely, the Mavs have yet to score UNDER 100 points in any of their six games. In fact, they are averaging 116.7 ppg this season. The Magic will have to keep the Mavs scoring down or else they won't come close in this game. Still, bad spot for the Magic playing back-to-back against a high scoring team. Play the Mavericks

I'll be looking at the NBA game between the San Antonio Spurs and the Golden State Warriors.  Well, it's officially panic time in Golden State.  Not only are the Warriors just 1-3 to start the season, but they have been blown out in both home games. They are coming off one of those blowout losses at home to the Phoenix Suns of all teams, 110-121. And worse of all, the Warriors fell behind by 20 early in the game and never got close.  That was the first game the Warriors were even a favorite.  To make matters even worse, now the Warriors will be without their star guard in Stephen Curry who broke his hand.  The Spurs are 3-1 S/U and 0-4 ATS on the season.  The Spurs lost their first game of the season last time out at the Clippers, 97-103. They had won their first three games, all at home, but failed to cover any of those. The Spurs are averaging 113.5 ppg and allowing 111.5 ppg this season. Until I see some major improvements in the Warrior team and the return of some healthy players, I'll continue to go against them like I have in just about every game this year.

 Denver has started the season quickly with a 3-1 S/U and 2-2 ATS mark. Denver suffered its first loss of the season last time out at home to Dallas, 106-109. The Nuggets are averaging 105.8 ppg and allowing 102.5 ppg this season. Denver has covered both of its road games this year, outscoring those two opponents by 7.5 points. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans are still looking for their first win of the season after a 0-4 S/U and 1-3 ATS start to the year. The Pelicans give up a lot of points, at least 123 in each of their first four games. They are averaging 121 ppg and giving up 128.3 ppg thus far. The Pelicans are just 2-11 ATS in their last 13 home games and 5-20 ATS their last 20 dating back to last season. I like Denver here tonight laying the small number. Play the Nuggets.

Houston Rockets have started the season with a 2-1 S/U and 0-3 ATS record. The Rockets opened the season with three games at home, winning two of the three but failing to cover any of those games. They are off a win over Oklahoma City, 116-112 as a 10-point favorite. Now they take to the road for the first time this year. Washington is 1-2 S/U and 3-0 ATS. The Wizards started the season all on the road, at Dallas, OKC and San Antonio. While they only beat Oklahoma City, they did cover all three. Now they host their first game of the season. The big game is not this Houston vs Washington matchup, but rather the one on the diamond tonight for the World Series crown. Still, these teams might draw some interest and I like the host here. They are getting eight-points and have covered every game thus far. Take the Washington Wizards tonight plus the points.

Both these teams have been scoring machines this early NBA season. The Clippers won the Kawhi Leonard sweepstakes in the offseason and it's paid dividends thus far as the Clippers beat their instate rivals in the Lakers in the opener, 112-102 and then beat Golden State on the road, 141-122. They did lose their third game at Phoenix, 122-130. They have gone over in the last two games. Charlotte opened the season with a win over Chicago, 126-125. Then lost at home to Minnesota 99-121 and then lost at the Lakers, 101-121. All three of their opponents scoring 120 points or more. I like this one over tonight. I expect the Clippers to score over 120 and that means we don't need much over 100 out of Charlotte. Take the OVER.

The LA Clippers won the Kawhi Leonard sweepstakes over the off season. So far it has looked like it has paid off well, with a 2-0 start to the season. The Clippers started off with a win over intrastate rival LA Lakers and then went to Golden State and trounced the Warriors 141-122. Leonard has averaged 25.5 points so far in the two games. Phoenix started with a win at home over Sacramento, 124-95 and then lost at Denver in a close matchup yesterday, 107-108. Playing the Clippers right now looks difficult enough, but add to that fact that the Suns had to play last night and then travel back home tonight and it's a daunting task. I'm taking the Clippers here tonight.

Chicago didn't have the best preseason, but we have to not put much into those numbers. They shot just 41% as a team during the preseason in their five games. The Bulls had a 2-3 record with a +0.4 point differential. The Hornets were just 1-4 in the preseason with a -2.6 point differential. Both these clubs missed the postseason last year. The Hornets are much different looking with many players gone from last year. The current roster holds many question marks with unknown players ready to start. The addition of a key few vets to Chicago gives them a bigger edge to start the season. The Hornets are just too inexperienced at this point. I'm going to lay the points on the road with the Bulls. Play Chicago.

Game 4 here in Northern California sees the Toronto Raptors up 2-1 in this series. The Warriors don't want to go down 1-3 in this series either. In game three they were without Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Kevon Looney. Durant still won't play here tonight, but the good news is that Thompson will be back and Looney is a possibility. Thompson is a key cog in this offense and they can ill afford to do with out the shooting guard. This is a game where I fully expect the Warriors to rebound from that poor performance in game three. This is too good a team to not show up again here tonight. In addition, the Warriors seem to play their best when their backs are up against the wall as they are tonight. This might be the closest to a must win this Warriors team has seen this season. I like the Warriors to rise to the occasion. Play Golden State.

 The Trailblazers face elimination here tonight as they are down 0-3. They had another chance at a win in game three leading by 13 points at the half. However, a 13-point third quarter followed by a 20-point fourth quarter and the Blazers lost 99-110. That makes two games in a row that they have led by double digits only to lose. Makes you wonder how they can have any confidence in any lead they get, knowing that the Warriors have the ability to come back. Their can't be a lot left in the tank tonight for the Blazers. I'm taking Golden State as they look for the sweep.

I'll be looking at the under here in game three between the Bucks and Raptors. This is really the tale of two different teams. The Bucks have been scoring a lot of points and the Raptors have been keeping games lower scoring with UNDERS. With the Bucks up 2-0, I look for Toronto to try and control the tempo of this game. The Raptors pretty much know they don't want to get into a scoring exchange with the Bucks. They have been a good under team, with 4-11 O/U their last 15 games. They have also gone under in five of their last seven home games. I expect the best effort of this series from Toronto and that means a more deliberate contest and that means lower scoring. Play the UNDER here in game three.

Game three of the NBA Western Conference finals moves to Portland as the Blazers in desperate need of a win after going down 0-2 in this series. The Blazers lost game two at Golden State, 111-114, but did cover the 7-point line. The Blazers should have some confidence coming into this game three as they played very well at Golden State in game two. The Blazers shot well in game two, hitting 44.2% from the field and outscored the Warriors from beyond 3-point arc, 54-27. The Warriors found themselves trailing by as many as 17-points in game two, so to be up 2-0 is very fortunate for this Golden State team. Now they have to play at Portland, where the Blazers have played very well. I like Portland to grab game three here on Saturday. Play Portland

The two best teams in the East square off for the chance to go to the NBA finals. The Raptors had that amazing finish to their game 7 with Kwahi Leonard hitting that buzzer-beater to win the series. Have to wonder if the Raptors will have a bit of a letdown going into game one here. The Bucks have more rest, having dispatched the Celtics in relative easy fashion. You can make a case for either team here, but I do like the well rested Bucks to show why they were the best team in the NBA this season. Take Milwaukee.

IT's game 7 between the Blazers and Nuggets for the right to move to the Conference Championship series against the Warriors. The Blazers forced this game seven with a win at home in game six, 119-108. As I predicted in game one, these might be the most evenly matched teams in the NBA Playoffs and they have provided it here. The Nuggets have covered four of the six in this series though including two of three at home. A big concern for the Blazers here in game seven is center Niola Jokic. Jovic has been someone that the Blazers have been unable to contain. The game 7 experience goes to the Nuggets in this one and with Jokic being a force, I look for the Nuggets to cover and advance in this one. Take Denver.

 Bucks can close out their series with the Celtics tonight on their home court. The Bucks, leading 2-1, took game four at Boston to take a commanding 3-1 lead in this best of seven series. Since their game one loss to the Celtics, Milwaukee has kept the Boston offense in check, holding them to 40, 43 and 38 percent from the field. They have also out rebounded the Celtics in the last three games. Moreover, Milwaukee has now covered seven of their eight playoff games this season. Boston won game one of the series by 22-points. Since then, they really haven't come close, losing by 21, 7 and 12 points in games two thru four. The Celtics are now 3-7 ATS their last 10 games vs a team with a 60% winning record. I believe the Bucks took the wind out of the Celtics sails with that game four win at Boston. Boston knows they can't take three straight from the NBA's best team during the regular season. I look for Milwaukee to wrap up this series tonight. Take Milwaukee.

 The Philadelphia 76ers can take a commanding 3-1 lead in their best of seven series with the Raptors with a win today at home. The Sixers lost game one in Toronto, but then rebounded for wins in game 2 and game 3. The last game coming at home and a Philly blowout, 116-95. Philly saw it's shooting percentage skyrocket from 39% in games 1 and 2 to 51% in game three. They have also out rebounded the Raptors in all three games by a combined 169-142. I like the Sixers here in game four. They are controlling the boards, getting second shots and if they shoot anywhere near what they did in game three, this will be another Sixers blowout. Play Philadelphia.

The Houston Rockets are in that much dreaded "Must WIN" situation. As they return home to Houston they are down 0-2 in their best of seven series with the Warriors. The Warriors won game one, 104-100 and then game two 115-109. The Warriors shot 51% from the field in game one and 46% from the field in game two. Rebounds have been a big issue in this series, with the Rockets grabbing 39 in game one and 47 in game two. However, the Warriors grabbed 52 boards in both games to dominate that part of the game with Houston and why the Rockets are down 0-2 here today. I expect this is the game for Houston to pull out all the stops and they will have to hit those boards if they hope to stay alive in this series. Play HOUSTON.

Golden State took game one of this series in what was a very low scoring game, 104-100. Despite the low score, the Warriors still hit 51% of their shots from the field. Houston hit 42% of their shots from the field. The Rockets are now 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games and 5-0 ATS in their last five vs the NBA Pacific division. The Rockets have also been a great under team. Houston is 0-4 O/U in their last four road games, 6-20-2 O/U in their last 28 games with 1 day rest and 6-19-1 O/U in their last 26 overall games. The Warriors have had their issues covering games, evidenced by their 10-23-1 ATS mark in their last 34 home games. They are also 1-4 ATS in their last five conference semifinal games. Surprisingly, the Warriors have also been a good under team. They are 0-4 O/U in their last four conference semifinals and 5-16 O/U in their last 21 games playing on one day rest. They are also have gone under in 11 of their last 15 home games. I expect another close, low scoring contest here tonight. Play the UNDER.

Game two of this best of seven series has the Raptors leading 1-0 after Saturday's win at Toronto, 108-95. Toronto has now held opponents to fewer than 100 points in five straight games. It's rare for the Sixers offense to be held below the century mark, so don't look for that again here tonight. Philly has covered four of their last five games. In fact, they are 11-3 ATS their last 14 after a straight-up loss of 10 points or more. I do like the bounce back factor here tonight with the dog. I'm taking the points with Philly.

Portland can win this series tonight over the Thunder with a win on their home court. The Blazers split their two games in Oklahoma City, taking game four 111-98 and with it a commanding 3-1 series lead. Surprisingly, the Blazers defense has been the standout in this series, holding Oklahoma City to under 100 points in all three of their wins. Portland is now 25-9 ATS in their last 34 games when holding their opponent to less than 100 points in the previous game. They are also 43-21-1 ATS in their last 65 home games. Portland has now covered six of the last eight in this series and I expect them to close out this series tonight. Play Portland.

The Milwaukee Bucks are showing just why they were the best team in the NBA this regular season with 60 wins. The Bucks have pretty much just rolled right over the Pistons here in this series and would like nothing better than a 4-0 sweep and some down time. The Bucks stingy defense took game one by 35 points (121-86) and then again in game two by a 120-99 margin. Of course it doesn't help that the Pistons have been without one of their best players in F Blake Griffin who missed game two with knee injury. Griffin is doubtful for game three here tonight and that really hurts this Detroit club. The Bucks are now 5-0-1 ATS their last six against the Pistons. I don't see much chance for the Pistons here in game three. Play Milwaukee.

Spurs look to take a commanding 3-1 lead after tonight's contest at home against Denver. The Spurs won their last game against Denver at home, 118-108 as a 4.5-point favorite. Right now the Spurs are winning the back-court battle as their guard duo of Derrick White and DeMar DeRozan are playing the better ball. DeRozan and White combined for 61 points in game three. The Nuggets have now lost 14 straight games at San Antonio dating back to 2012. The Nuggets will have to find a way to win at San Antonio if they want to advance in these playoffs, something they haven't been able to do in seven years. The games have been close in the 4th, but the Spurs experience seems to be winning the day. Take San Antonio again here on Saturday.

Boston brings a 2-0 lead in this best of seven series back to Indiana for game three tonight. However, they could and really should be tied 1-1. The Pacers had one of the biggest spread collapses I've seen in ages in game two. Up by 1-point with just about 60 seconds to play, the Pacers turned the ball over and fouled their way to a 8-point loss and improbable Boston cover of the 7 or 7.5 points line. It was the most amazing fold I've seen in some time in regards to a spread. That being said, what effect will that have on the Pacers tonight. They are obviously in a must win position as they can't go down 0-3 with any hopes of winning this series. So I expect a full out effort here tonight. But will that game two collapse carry over to tonight? I don't think so. You have to have a short memory in sports and put those games behind you. The Pacers know they can get right back into this series with wins on their home court. It's now or never Indiana. Take the Pacers here in game three.

This best of seven series tied at one game apiece after Philadelphia rebounded for a win in game two. The venue changes to Brooklyn here for game three tonight, the first time a postseason basketball game has been in New York in four years. The Nets allowed Philly to score a NBA record tying 51 third quarter points. Still, Brooklyn got what they wanted, a split in Philly. The Sixers are a 3-point road dog right now in this game three contest. Philly is just 2-5 ATS in their last seven games and 1-4 ATS their last five times with 2 days rest. The Sixers are also 2-5 ATS in their last seven road games. Meanwhile, the Nets are 16-5 ATS their last 21 games playing on two-days rest and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 conference quarterfinal contest. Brooklyn has covered four of the last five with Philly and with a packed-house and a raucous crowd expected here tonight, I'm taking the Nets in game three.

 Denver in a must win spot here just to salvage a split in the first two games of this series with the Spurs. The first game was low scoring, just as I gave out as the Spurs won 101-96. The Nuggets only hit 42% from the field in game one while giving up 48% of their defensive shots. I won't be going under here because I look for Denver to kick up the pace and not let this game become bogged-down like what happened in game one. Denver had a big regular season and unless they want that dream season to come to an end, they need to take control in this game. Take Denver here in game 2.

It's a matchup of No5 vs No4 here in the Western Conference quarterfinals as the Jazz take on the Rockets. The Rockets finished fourth in the West with a 53-29 record. The Jazz were fifth with a 50-32 record. The Jazz are 6-1 ATS their last seven road games vs a team with a winning home record. They are also 20-5-1 ATS their last 26 games following a straight-up loss. The Jazz are also 10-3 ATS their last 13 road games. The Rockets don't do well on this much rest, going 0-6 ATS their last six times they have had 3 or more days rest. The Jazz are 3-0-1 their last four meetings vs the Rockets in Houston and 3-1 ATS the last four overall. The Dog is also 5-2 the last seven meetings and the road team is 6-1-1 ATS the last eight. I like the road team here today, Play Utah.

 Portland has been one of the better covering teams in the NBA of late. The Blazers did fail to cover last time out at San Antonio, but that was the second of a back-to-back spot and they were in a tough situation in that game. Portland has covered nine of their last 13 games overall. They are also 38-18 ATS their last 56 home games and 12-4 ATS their last 16 against a team with a winning straight up record. The Pacers are not nearly as good a covering team. In fact, they are just 1-4 ATS their last five eon the road and 2-7 ATS their last nine against a team with a win percentage above 60%. Portland has also covered seven of the last eight meetings with the Pacers. Moreover, they are 5-1 ATS their last six at Portland against Indiana. I like the host here tonight. Take Portland.

The Denver Nuggets are having an excellent season, but they will look to improve here tonight on the road where they are just 2-7 ATS their last nine away games. They are also 3-9 ATS their last 12 road games against a team with a winning home record as they face tonight. The Spurs are 16-5 ATS their last 21 games at home vs a team with a winning road record. They are also 7-3 ATS against the NBA Northwest division and 15-6 ATS their last 21 overall at home. The Spurs have a two-game win streak as they head into tonight's contest while the Nuggets have lost two straight. The Spurs have covered seven of the last nine in this series and five of the six at San Antonio. I like the Spurs here tonight. Play San Antonio.

Reason: Washington not having the kind of season they are used to having with just a 24-36 record. The Wizards are 0-2-1 ATS their last three games and 2-6-1 ATS their last nine games. In addition, they are 4-23 ATS their last 27 road games vs a winning team. Brooklyn has a winning record at 32-30 and is also 35-27 ATS on the season. They have covered four of their last five games and are 12-5 ATS their last 17 vs a team with a straight-up losing record. The Nets are 5-0 ATS their last five vs the Wizards in Brooklyn. Take the home team, Brooklyn.

The Sacramento Kings are having one of their best seasons this year with a 30-26 mark and 33-23 ATS record. The Kings have won two straight games and five of their last six. They have also covered five of their last six. The Kings have a rough road test here now as they play at Denver, Golden State, Oklahoma City and Minnesota. Tonight is at Denver, always a tough place for visitors to play. Denver is one of the best teams in the NBA with a 38-18 S/U and 30-26 ATS record. The Nuggets broke a three game losing streak with a win over Miami, 103-87 last time out. The Nuggets are 7-1 ATS their last eight home games. They are also 20-6 ATS their last 26 games at home against a team with a losing road record. Denver has covered seven of the last eight vs Sacramento and the last four in Denver. I like the host here tonight, play Denver.

Washington still struggling to get back to that .500 mark at just 24-32 S/U and 24-31-1 ATS. The Wizards have won two straight games both S/U and ATS. They had lost the previous five of six though, both S/U and ATS. Washington has to play two straight now on the road and four of its next five games. Overall, the Wizards are just not a good spread team, evidenced by their 19-39 ATS mark their last 58 games and 5-21 ATS their last 26 games on the road against a winning home team. The Pistons are 25-29 S/U and 25-28-1 ATS on the season. Detroit has won and covered three straight game. The Pistons have had two days rest to prepare for this game and when they have had this much rest they are 5-1 ATS their last six time. The home team has covered four of the last five in this series and that's what I'm looking at here tonight. I'm taking the home club, Detroit.

As bad as the Chicago Bulls are this season at 12-42, they are not the worst team in the division as that distinction goes to Cleveland at 11-43. The Bulls won for just the second time in their last 16 games with a 105-89 victory last game at Miami. It was also just their fifth cover in their last 15 games. Meanwhile, Brooklyn is having a decent season with a 29-27 record and 31-25 ATS mark. The Nets have won 12 of their last 16 games and covered 12 of 16. The Nets have also covered 12 of their last 17 home games and 21 of the last 31 overall. The Bulls are 3-12 ATS their last 15 vs the NBA Atlantic division. Nets have covered five of the last six in this series and the favorite is 6-1 ATS the last seven. Take the Nets here tonight.

Milwaukee having an excellent season at 38-13 S/U and 29-20 ATS. The Bucks have won two straight and eight of the last nine. They have covered two straight games. The Bucks have to lay seven points today on the road to the Nets. The Nets are not the Nets of old. This team has a winning record at 28-26 S/U and 30-24 ATS. The nets have won 11 of their last 16 games. They have also covered 11 of their last 16. The Nets are 6-1 ATS at home their last seven against a winning road team. They are also 6-2 ATS in their last eight overall at home and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games. This is not the same old Nets squad. I like the points here at home today. Play Brooklyn.

Chicago having a terrible season, with a 11-39 record. The only team worse is Cleveland at 10-41. The Bulls are also 21-27-2 ATS. Chicago has lost its last three both S/U and ATS. The Bulls are also 2-8-1 ATS their last 11 games. The Bulls are also 1-7 ATS their last eight playing on one day rest and 5-16 ATS their last 21 vs the Atlantic division. Brooklyn is having a winning season at 27-24 S/U and 29-22 ATS. The Nets are coming off a loss at Boston, but have won six of their last seven games and covered 10 of their last 13 games. The Nets are also 6-1 ATS at home their last 7 game against a team with a losing road record. The Nets have covered the last five in this series and I expect that again here tonight. Play Brooklyn.

The Rockets have been a very good friend to bettors this year, going 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games. They are also 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 times they are playing with one day rest. The Magic are playing in a back-to-back spot here today and while that works for deeper teams, not for the Magic. The Magic are not deep enough and it shows in their 2-5 ATS record the last seven times in this spot. The Magic are also 0-6 ATS in their last six games against the Western Conference. I'm taking the Rockets to cover here on Sunday. Play Houston.

Lakers in a back-to-back spot here on Sunday, but they seem to do ok in that spot with a 6-2 ATS their last eight games. LA is 18-11 S/U and 12-16-1 ATS so far this season and in second place in the Pacific division behind Golden State. The Lakers have won three of their last four games and seven of their last nine games. Washington not doing so well this year with a 11-18 S/U record and in fourth in the Southeast division. The Wizards are on a four game losing streak both S/U and ATS. The Wizards are also 3-8 ATS in their last 11 vs the Western Conference and 2-5 ATS the last seven vs the Pacific division. Lakers have owned this series with a 12-5-1 ATS mark in Washington their last 18 games. I like the Lakers here today. Play LA.

 Game one results will surely bring on some adjustments. This is especially true for the Rockets. What were they thinking in game one? Did they really think they could run with the Warriors and prevail? Most hoop experts believed they would be wise enough to try and slow the Warriors by running time off the clock on both offense and defense. Game two will be different, od they will be going on the road down 0-2. Look for the Rockets to slow the pace to limit the fatigue on Harden and Paul. This will hopefully allow them to stay close at the end and possibly salvage game 2 in this series. That being said, i am not looking at a side here but the total. A slower pace and a little more defense will bring the total home for us. Play Under in game #2

After scoring 83 points in game 1, the Cavs will bring higher than usual focus to this game. This is a tough series as the Celtics have won and covered all eight home games in the playoffs. The oddsmakers are giving them no respect because the public refuses to see that. Not all fo their home wins and covers have been easybut they have found a way. LeBron is a story all by himself. In his 15 year career, especially the last 8 years, he has been the story for any team he has been with. He is the man and i dont feel Morris will be able to do what he did in game 1. The reason is, i feel the rest of the Cavs who may not be great, are good enough to do more than they did in Gm 1. 4 for 26 from 3 point land will not happen again. But lets not take anything away from the Celtics defense. They do a great job of guarding the perimeter. teh Cavs will counter by playing some old school, by going to the rim more. The total was adjusted off the game 1 score but should not have been IMO. Play OVER in Game 2

Of course we all know what powerful offenses these teams have but remember that knowledge is in the line already. What most people don't see is that during the regular season, NBA teams coast quite often. We do not get a true read on who they are until the reach the playoffs. Both of these clubs went under 60% of their games in the second round matchups. In the first round the combined record was 50% over and under. I'm going with the more recent trend and adding in a lot of urgency to play some tough defense. These teams both rank in the top ten in defensive rankings. PLay Under Game #1

Second round action begins today as the Utah Jazz take on the Houston Rockets. Utah had to go six games to take care of Oklahoma City and they split against the spread. In their three games at OKC, the Jazz were 1-2 both S/U and ATS. Houston went five games to beat Minnesota in their first round matchup. The Rockets covered the last two in the series and saw their offense finally click with 122 and 119 points. The previous three games saw the Rockets scored 104 points or less. During the regular season the Rockets gave the Jazz all kinds of problems. The Rockets beat the Jazz four times in the regular season and the average margin of victory was 17.5 points. The games played in Houston saw the Rockets win by 27 and 21 points. The Rockets have one of the best sixth men in the NBA in Eric Gordon, who averaged 18 ppg. The Jazz will also be without Ricky Rubio who is out todya with a hamstring injury. I'm taking the Rockets here today as I look for them to make this a blowout win.

Cleveland returns home with a 2-2 tie in this best of seven series. So far all four games have gone under the total. That's what I'm looking at again here on Wednesday is the UNDER. We've seen the oddsmaker drop the total from 212.5 in game one to 206 in game four and tonight 205. The closest these teams came was in game four where they got 204 points and just went under the 206. This Cavs team has been so difficult to put your thumb on, one day they play great then they lose by 20. They did this all season, which makes it hard to pick a side here. That's why I'm sticking with the UNDER. We haven't seen the Pacers exploit the Cavs bad defense yet in this series and I don't think we'll see it here in game five. Forget the side in this game, take the UNDER.

This best of seven series tied at two games apiece. Milwaukee had a huge, 20-point lead in game four and while they held on for the win, they didn't cover the six-point line in a 104-102 win. So far each team has held home court as we return to Boston for game five. The Celtics have covered three of the four in the series. Boston needs to improve its defense, as it has allowed the Bucks to shot over 52% from the field each of the last three games and over 43% from the 3-point line. I don't see any reason to ahem, buck the trends I see taking place in this series and that's play the home team. The Celtics can't go back to Milwaukee down 2-3 so look for a Boston win here on Tuesday. Play Boston.

When this series started it looked to be one of the more interesting and equally matched ones. However, that hasn't been the case as the Warriors have dominated this series and can eliminate the Spurs today with a win. The Warriors have been without their star guard Stephen Curry, who has been out this series with a knee injury. That looked to be the great equalizer for the Spurs, who play a good defensive game. The Warriors have had little trouble scoring against this Spurs defense, with 113, 116 and 110 points in the first three games. The Spurs were also dealt a big blow before game three when coach Gregg Popvich's wife passed away and the coach had to miss the game. Popovich will not be on the bench today either. To me, that takes the heart out of this Spurs team. They are down 0-3 in the series, they are without their coach, don't see what positives I can place in the Spurs column here today. Play the Warriors.

 No doubt in my mind that the Philadelphia 76ers are the best team in this matchup. We saw the 76ers in game three that we had seen for their 16 game win streak at the end of the regular season where they were blowing out opponents and scoring tons of points. There was a question whether or not Joel Embiid would play in game three and not only did he, but he was the difference in the Sixers win, 128-108. Embiid scored 23 points, grabbed seven rebounds and had four assists in just 30 minutes of play. Embiid had missed the previous three weeks with a concussion suffered and orbital fractures. Sure, the Heat won game two, but it took a perfect game by the Heat and a performance by Dwayne Wade that frankly looked like he had turned back the close 10 years. I can't see that happening again, especially against this young, hungry Sixers team that has Embiid back at center. This is the perfect spot for another blowout win today. Play Philadelphia.

The Miami Heat evened their best of seven series with the 76ers by steeling game two in Philly. The Heat played about as perfect a game as they could to get the win. They almost lost it though as a huge lead evaporated to just two points at 98-96 before Dwayne Wade took over and held off the Sixers for the win, 113-103. Wade looked like his younger self, pouring in 28 points and coming up with big plays down the stretch. The Sixers how to get back their big man, Joel Embiid, who is questionable for tonight's game with a concussion. Embiid averages 22.94 ppg and 10.95 rebounds. The Sixers are hoping to recapture the momentum they had at the end of the regular season that saw them win 16 straight games. The loss of Embiid tonight is huge though. The Heat must once again control the pace and keep Philly from going wild scoring points. If Embiid were playing this might be a different play, but without him I'm taking the points at home with Miami.

The New Orleans Pelicans stole game one of this series from the Blazers, 97-95. Anthony Davis was the leader for the Pelicans, scoring 35 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Davis controlled the paint for the Pelicans. The Pelicans did see a 19-point lead virtually evaporate when the Blazers pulled to within one point in the final minute of the game. Portland's backcourt of Damian Lillard and C.J McCollum combined for just 13 of 41 field goals. The Pelicans are ready for another win here on Tuesday as they look to go up 2-0 in this series. The Blazers haven't really showed me anything of late and the 6 1/2 point dog here is just too much to pass on. I'm taking the Pelicans plus the 6 1/2 points.

 It's the last day of the NBA regular season and there's still a lot at stake for the NBA Western Conference teams numbers 3 through 9. The third-place Utah Jazz are tied with the Portland Trail Blazers and they just one game ahead of the Pelicans, Spurs and Thunder. There's a lot of room for jockeying of position for the playoffs here and tonight's game between the Jazz and the Trailblazers will determine the third and fourth place seeds. The Trailblazers will finish third and host the first round game if they win tonight versus the Jazz. If they lose to the Jazz then they will play the winner of the Spurs and the Pelicans matchup and that will feature the 4th against the 5th Place teams. I do like the Jazz here tonight mainly because they are on a six-game winning streak and have been very impressive during that stretch. The Jazz are also 15-1 S/U and 12-4 against the spread in their last 16 road games. Getting points is just too much to pass on here tonight. Play the Jazz

The Philadelphia 76ers host the Dallas Mavericks today on NBA TV. The 76ers still have something to play for as they lead the fourth place Cleveland Cavaliers by just a half-game. As for the Dallas Mavericks, well they're out of it for this year. In this game though, I'm looking at the over. Philadelphia has won 13 straight games. But what's probably more impressive is that they have scored at least 115 points in 11 of those 13 games. the 76ers jumped out to a 30-point lead against Cleveland last Friday night, but despite the large lead, they still had to hold on for a two-point win over the Cavaliers. In that contest, the 76ers still scored 132 points. The Dallas Mavericks will try and snap the 76ers 13 game winning streak. Unfortunately for the Mavericks they have won just two games and lost 10 in their last 12 overall. In addition the Mavericks have allowed 113 points their last game at Detroit. I don't really see how the Mavericks will hold down the 76ers scoring machine here today. I'm going to stick with the over in the 76ers and Mavericks contest.

The Detroit Pistons and the Dallas Mavericks play for just a little pride today, seeing as both of these clubs have been eliminated from the NBA playoffs. The Pistons have been hot, winning seven of their last 10 games. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have won only 24 and lost 55 games this year and they are 2-8 their last 10 games. In addition, Dirk Nowitzki is out for the remainder of the games this season as he is having ankle surgery. The Pistons are 8-1 ATS in the last nine games overall, 4-0 ATS in the last four vs the Western Conference and 7-0 ATS in their last seven games versus a team with a losing straight-up record. The Mavericks are just 1-5 ATS in their last six road games and 0-4 ATS their last four vs the East. Take the Pistons.

The NBA playoff picture in the Eastern Conference is pretty much set, all eight teams are locked-in with the other teams already eliminated. However, there is still plenty of room to jockey for position within that top eight. One such game is the game on national television tonight between the Washington Wizards and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Washington sits currently tied for the 7th and 8th position with Milwaukee, just a half-game back of number 6 Miami. The Cleveland Cavaliers currently are in third position tied with the Philadelphia 76ers and two games ahead of 5th Place Indiana. For the Cavaliers this game has more implications as far as home court goes in the early rounds they don't want to drop below that number four spot here in the East or they face the possibility of not getting home court in the first round. The Wizards have not been very good for bettors lately, going 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games overall and they are 0-6 ATS in their last six away games. The Cavaliers who were horrible against the spread earlier this year have improved lately. Cleveland is 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home games and 4-0 ATS in their last four overall. I like the Cavaliers today to take this game and solidify their hold on the number three position.

Portland has been one of the hotter teams of late, especially at home where they are 13-2-1 ATS in their last 16 games and 16-5-1 ATS their last 22 overall. The Blazers are also on a nine game win streak after beating Golden State easily, 125-108. In fact, in their last nine wins, the lowest margin of victory has been eight points. Miami is coming off a two game home streak. The Heat have lost their last three away games, two in OT. The Blazers have covered four of the last five vs the Heat in Portland. In addition, the home team is 5-2 ATS the last seven. Portland just playing too well right now. I'm taking the Trailblazers tonight.

Portland catches Sacramento is a good spot here as the Kings are playing the second of a back-to-back spot tonight. The Kings lost at home last night to the T'Wolves, 118-100, then had to jump on a plane for the trip to Portland for tonight's contest. Portland has covered six of its last seven on its home court. In addition, the Blazers are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 vs the Western Conference. Portland has covered three of the last four in this series including the last two games by a combined 30 points. Kings are a bad team and now they are put in a bad spot, that's what we need for an easy win on Tuesday. Take Portland.

Brooklyn has covered just three of its last 10 games and just one of its last five home games. In fact, the Nets are just 1-9 S/U their last 10 games. Indiana has won two straight games both S/U and ATS. The Pacers are 7-3 S/U their last 10 games. Indiana has also had much success vs the Nets, covering five of the last six meetings and 12 of the last 17 in Brooklyn. Pacers have a fairly easy schedule coming up with Dallas and two games vs the Hawks. No need to look past this opponent tonight. Take the Pacers.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a very strange team. On one hand, you have the team with the third best record in the Eastern conference at 30-22. On the other hand, you have a team that is horrible at covering spreads this year. The Cavs had to play last night at Orlando. They led 43-31 after one quarter and 67-51 at the half. In the second half, the Cavs scored a total of 31 of points and lost 116-98 to the Magic, a blowout loss. The Cavs are now 14-36-1 ATS in their last 51 overall games. They are 16-35-2 ATS in their last 53 home games. That is terrible. Now they play the second of back-to-back spot where they are notorious for resting players. This is the perfect spot for a T'Wolves team that is 34-22 and 3rd in the West. Yes, it's difficult to lay points at Cleveland, but I'm just not sure what is going on with this Cavaliers club right now. Play the Timberwolves.

The new coach for the Bucks seems to have energized this team. Out is Jason Kidd and taking over is assistant coach Joe Prunty. Prutny is 3-0 in his short tenure. The Bucks have shown a lot more life and energy since Prutny has taken over. Both these teams coming off a Sunday game, making this a back-to-back spot for both teams. Bucks have done well in this spot, going 6-3 S/U and 6-2-1 ATS. Philly hasn't fared so well, going 1-4 S/U and 1-3-1 ATS in the same spot. Great spot here for the Bucks riding the new energy of the coach and having a good spot to catch the Sixers. Play Milwaukee.

 Spurs played a big game last night as they hosted the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Spurs trailed early but pulled away and never looked back in a 114-102 win. That's the good news. I had the Spurs last night, but tonight I expect a letdown spot. The Spurs are ripe for a road loss. First, they are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back spot - that's never easy. Next, they will be off that big win last night. The Spurs are just 1-6 ATS in the 2nd game of a back-to-back spot this year. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies have covered their last five games and are also 6-0-1 ATS in their last seven home games. The home team has a 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meeting and I like this spot for the Grizzlies.

The Clippers have really improved of late, winning three straight games and five of their last six games. They have also covered three straight and are 8-1-1 ATS their last 10. While the Clippers average 105.5 ppg this season, they are averaging 117.8 ppg their last five and allowing just 106.4 ppg. The Grizzlies are just 5-13 on the road this season adn 12-25 overall. Even though the Grizzlies have done better in this series, I like the way the Clippers are playing lately and I'll lay the points here with LA. Play the Clippers

The Oklahoma City Thunder (12-14 S/U, 8-18 ATS) take on the Indiana Pacers (16-11 S/U, 17-10 ATS) tonight. The Thunder have struggled on the road, going 0-9 ATS in their last nine road games. They are also 1-11 ATS in their last 12 overall. In addition, the club is just 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games with 1 day rest. Meanwhile, the Pacers are playing very well, going 4-1 ATS their last five games and 24-8 ATS their last 32 with two days rest. The Pacers average 109 points on the season while allowing 106.4 ppg. OKC averages 101.8 ppg and just 99.3 ppg on the road. I don't see the Thunder improving on their horrible road results here in Indiana tonight. The Pacers are laying just 1.5 points and that is just too good a line to pass on. Play Indiana.

We hit out Situation Game of the Month with Cleveland at Detroit on Monday evening in an easy win, 116-88. The issue with the Cavs is to know when to play them and when to fold them. The Cavs like to rest players, but I believe they see the Celtics pulling away and have had to step it up, evidenced by their five straight wins. If they aren't careful the Celtics will run away with the East. Both teams have bad defenses, allowing 113.9 for the Nets and 114 for the Cavs. However, during this last five game streak, Cleveland has allowed just 102.6 ppg, a drastic downturn. Brooklyn has lost three of its last four games and hits the road here tonight. This isn't a very good team, especially on the road. With Cleveland having last night off, I look for them to run up the score tonight. Play Cleveland.

Magic off to a 2-1 record both S/U and ATS. The Magic have owned this series of late, going 5-1-1 ATS the last seven against the Nets. The home team has also had the edge here, going 4-0-1 ATS the last five meetings. Brooklyn is also 2-1 both SU and ATS. The Nets are first in the NBA in scoring (124.3) and third in field goals (48.3%). The defense hasn't been so good, ranked 29th (121.7 ppg). Orlando can also put up points, averaging 117 (5th) and 2nd from beyond the 3-pt arc (48.3%). I expect a shootout here, but I'm taking the home club in Orlando.

04/23 1:00 PM EST   NBA   (509) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (510) INDIANA PACERS.
Take: NBA Inner Circle: Play (509) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS in Game 4.
Reason: Cleveland has the best player on the planet and is brimming with confidence after a historic comeback in Game 3, stunning Indiana. The Pacers have had no defense this series, allowing 109, 117 and 119 points. After choking away Game 3 in front of the home fans their season is over....and it's over today. Play Cleveland.

04/17 04:00 PM  NBA   (517) INDIANA PACERS VS (518) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Take: NBA High Roller Wise Guy Total: Indiana/Cleveland Game 2 Over the total.
Reason: Plenty of offensive talent on the floor for both teams, inside and out. Indiana (11-4 run over) has gone 8 straight games over the total on the road. Cleveland is home but a soft defensive teams, 6-1 over the total at home. The Over is 20-6-1 in the Cavaliers last 27 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. Play Indiana/Cleveland Game 2 Over the total.      

04/11 08:05 PM EST  NBA   (503) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (504) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES.
Take: NBA Blowout Game of the Year, (504) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Reason: Final home game for a young Minnesota squad with talent, and a meaningless game for Oklahoma City. It's the end of a four-game trip for OKC, 2-5 ATS against the West and a losing road record for the season. Minnesota is home from a 4-game trip and is playing hard for this first-year coaching staff, giving Utah and Portland close games on the road. The Timberwolves are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. The home team has covered 6 of 7 when these teams clash and the Thunder are 3-9 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Minnesota. Play Minnesota.      

04/10 10:30 PM  EST  NBA   (717) HOUSTON ROCKETS VS (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS.
Take: NBA Western Conference Bailout of the Month, (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Reason: Houston is on the road again with nothing to play for. The coaching staff admitted they will be resting players this week. Houston had to play yesterday and was on a 0-6 spread run going into that one at Sacramento. The Clippers are rested and still fighting for playoff seeding, winning 5 in a row. Play the LA Clippers.

04/07 08:35 PM EST   NBA   (509) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (510) DALLAS MAVERICKS.
Take: NBA Trend Tracker Total of the Year: San Antonio/Dallas Under the total.  
Reason: San Antonio has nothing to play for down the stretch, and looked it the last game, scoring 95 points in a home loss to the Lakers as -13 chalk. They are on a 6-2-1 run under the total, 4-1 under on the road. The Under is also 16-4-1 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. Dallas is all about slowing the pace down, #4 in the NBA in points allowed, but last in scoring. Dallas is on a 17-7-1 run under the total, 23-9-1 under playing on one day of rest. And the Under is 8-3 in the last 11 meetings. Play San Antonio/Dallas Under the total.      

03/31 07:05 PM EST  NBA   (503) INDIANA PACERS VS (504) TORONTO RAPTORS.
Take: NBA Payback Game of the Year, (503) INDIANA PACERS.
Reason: Indiana is playing hard, 1-2 the last three games, including a 1-point loss to Minnesota. They have plenty to play for, trying to hang on to the #8 playoff seed in the East. The Pacers are 7-3 ATS following a straight up loss, 6-1 ATS after a straight up loss of more than 10 points. They got crushed by this Toronto team two weeks ago, 116-91. Toronto is still without Kyle Lowry and comes off a home loss to Charlotte as -5.5 chalk. The Raptors are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. The Underdog is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings, with Indiana 4-1 ATS against Toronto the last five meetings. Play Indiana. Play Indiana.      

3/29 07:35 PM ESt   NBA   (509) MILWAUKEE BUCKS VS (510) BOSTON CELTICS.
Take: NBA Shocker of the Year, (509) MILWAUKEE BUCKS.
Reason: The Bucks play hard for this coaching staff, having a nice run the last two weeks. They are scoring and allowing just over 104 ppg. The Bucks are 6-1 ATS playing on no days rest, plus 5-2 ATS against the Eastern Conference. Boston is rested and a big favorite, but the Celtics are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games playing on 2 days rest. The Underdog is 20-8-1 ATS in the last 29 meetings and Milwaukee is 10-4 ATS at Boston. Play Milwaukee.

03/28 10:05 PM EST  NBA   (773) DENVER NUGGETS VS (774) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS.
Take:  NBA Western Conference Total of the Month: Denver/Portland Over the total.
Reason: These teams are in the Top 6 in the NBA in points scored, and in the bottom 6 in points allowed. Denver is 13-6 over the total after a defeat, 10-3-1 over following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Portland likes to run, especially at home, and the Over is 16-7 in the Blazers last 23 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. And when these teams meet the over is 7-1. Play Denver/Portland Over the total.      

03/24 10:35 PM EST  NBA   (867) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES VS (868) LOS ANGELES LAKERS.
Take: Trend Tracker Game of the Year, (867) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES.
Reason: Minnesota just finished a brutal four-game stretch against strong teams, losing all 4 (3 on the road). But the Timberwolves are 8-2 ATS against the Western Conference and face a terrible L.A. Lakers squad. The Lakers are #28 in points allowed and dead last in field goal shooting defense, on a 3-11-1 ATS run. The Lakers are 18-40 ATS against the Western Conference and the road team is 18-8 ATS in the last 26 meetings. Play Minnesota.

3/19 06:05 PM EST   NBA   (711) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES VS (712) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS.
Take: NBA Dominator Game of the Year, (712) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
A tough spot for Minnesota,  winding up a 3-game road trip. It's been a bad trip, getting blowout out the first two games. The Timberwolves are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a losing home record. New Orleans is Top 8 in the NBA in field goal shooting defense and three-point defense, off a blowout win at home over Houston as a dog, 128-112.   The Pelicans are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games. New Orleans has dominated the T-Wolves all season, 3-0 SU/ATS. And the Timberwolves are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings, 1-6 ATS at New Orleans. Play New Orleans.

02/24 08:05 PM EST   NBA   (845) BOSTON CELTICS VS (846) TORONTO RAPTORS.
Take: NBA Atlantic Division Game of the Month, (846) TORONTO RAPTORS
Reason: Boston has been on the road a lot and is riding a 3-7 spread run. They open the second half with another road game, a showdown with division rival Toronto. The talented Raptors are 5th in the NBA in scoring, #10 in points allowed. Toronto is 14-6-1 ATS at home against a team with a winning road record,, plus 20-6 ATS against the Atlantic division. And the Celtics are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Play Toronto.

The Chicago Bulls looked good to start the season, but times have been hard for the club lately. The Bulls have lost two straight and seven of their last 10 games. Chicago is the best rebounding team in the NBA (48.1 rpg), but just averages 101 ppg (23rd). The Spurs are having another excellent season at 24-6. Kawhi Leonard leads the club in scoring with 24.3 ppg. The Bulls have covered just one of their last seven games and are 0-4 ATS in their last four road contests. The Spurs are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games. Even with the Bulls boasting Dwayne Wade on this year's club, Chicago will not fair well against the West's best teams. Take San Antonio.

11/09 06:05 PM  NBA   (715) DETROIT PISTONS VS (716) PHOENIX SUNS.
Take: (715) DETROIT PISTONS
Reason: NBA Situational Game of the Year: Detroit.
The Pistons were embarrassed two nights ago and the team is an an angry bounce back mode. Detroit coach Stan Van Gundy was greatly disturbed by the poor performance and second-year forward Stanley Johnson was deeply annoyed. Van Gundy's postgame comments included this: "Nothing positive came out of this game. It's like starting at ground zero again. They dismantled us." The Pistons are 8-2-1 ATS following a spread loss. They match up well with a struggling Phoenix squad that has lost 6 of 8, giving up over 111 points in every game but one. Phoenix had to play last night, the end of a three-game trip, a 124-121 loss at Portland and the Suns are 9-25 ATS in their last 34 games following an ATS win. The Pistons have won the past three meetings and five of the last seven. The Pistons are 20-8 ATS in the last 28 meetings, including 4-0 ATS at Phoenix. Play Detroit.

The Oklahoma City Thunder did not want this game to happen. And, it looked for the majority of game six that it wouldn't. The Thunder led game six by five points at half and finished the third quarter up by eight. Midway through the fourth quarter, it looked like the Thunder might just be going to the finals, as they led by seven points. However, this is where things fell apart for the Thunder. Golden State, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson tied the game with just under three minutes. Thompson set a playoff record with 11 three-points in a game and outscored the Thunder by 15 points to win going away 108-101. Now the clubs return to Northern California where the Thunder will almost certainly have a major letdown. That's what I'm counting on here, that and the knowledge that Golden State won't let the Thunder beat them twice on their home court. Thompson and curry combined for 70 points to lead the Warriors to the win. Favorites of 5 or more points on their home court in game 7 are 22-8 ATS. I'm taking the Warriors here tonight. Get on this line early, because the price will go up on the Warriors. Play Golden State

 Golden State had a series saving game on Thursday with a win over the Thunder, 120-111. Now the Warriors have to do something they haven't this entire series, win at Oklahoma City. It's a win or go home game for the Warriors. One thing the Warriors have done is slow down the game a bit. Sure, then wen't over in game 5, but that required big 2nd and 4th quarters to do so. The Warriors also stayed "big" in game five, keeping their small-ball squad on the bench as they went with size. The Thunder will have to improve on what turned out to be one of their worst performances of the season in the pain on Thursday. The Thunder, despite the game 5 loss, are still a very confident team in their ability to beat Golden State. Tonight's game really is a MUST-WIN spot for the Thunder. They realize that going back to Northern Cal will likely result in a game seven loss. Tonight's contest could be the most important in Oklahoma City history and I'm taking them here tonight laying the short number.