Philadelphia at Miami 8:00 ET

Heat (-) over 76ers- Something might be going on here as Miami comes up the favorite against the 76ers. It just does not make sense Philadelphia has been one of the most dominate teams in the NBA this season and are 20-8 SU and 8-4 SU and ATS on the road. What is going on is that Joel Embiid the reigning MVP who averages a league high 35 points,11.7 rebounds six assists and 2 blocked shots.The Heat just haven’t been able to put it together yet and are just 4-10 ATS at home. But, without their stud they are not the same. Take MIAMI!

Boston at LA Lakers 5:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Celtics- The Celtics are shooting the lights out of the ball scoring 144 and 145 points in their past two games making 47 three-point shots. Yep, 47 long range bombs defeating the Kings and Clippers and that was the first time since 1966 that the Celtics scored over 140 points in consecutive games. The Lakers with Anthony Davis and LeBron can dominate play at times but the rest of the squad has to pick up the slack. LA won the in season tourney and have dropped five of six since. On Christmas and with a national audience King James will do enough to get the money here. Take the LA LAKERS

Milwaukee at New York 12:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Bucks- This is the second of back-to-back contests and Milwaukee already routed the Knicks 130-111 winning their ninth straight in the series bring their ATS record to 7-0-2. New York has shown improvement in each of the past three seasons under Tom Tribodeau but have had their problems with the Bucks. The media in NY has been riding the Knicks pretty hard saying that they can’t win against the NBA elite and site the Bucks as a perfect example. But, they are capable and are 7-4 SU at home while Milwaukee is 6-5 ATS on the road but just 13-16 ATS on the season. Take NEW YORK!

St. John’s at Connecticut 8:00 ET

Huskies (+) over Red Storm- Both of these clubs had their Big East openers this week and with unexpected results. The defending national champs suffered their worse loss in almost four years as Seton Hall trounced Connecticut 75-60. Seton Hall under Rick Pitino opened conference play with a 75-60 win over Xavier. The Red Storm only returned two players from last season’s and had trouble early meshing together. The Huskies were off to an impressive start with double digit wins over North Carolina, Texas and Gonzaga but fell at Kansas. Look for the champs to rebound (literally) and handle the storm easily. Take CONNECTICUT!

Orlando at Indiana

Magic (+) over Pacers- Considering that Orlando has lost four straight this line looks awful shallow to me but, then again the Pacers have dropped five of their last six. Indiana leads the NBA is scoring and that attracts a lot of attention but, there is always a but, they also allow the most points pr game. The Magic have already posted a 128-116 win over Indiana in November and now the Pacers Jalen Smith is out. Take ORLANDO!

Phoenix at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Kings- How about those Phoenix Suns...with a line up that includes Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Eric Gordon and Frank Vogel as coach (for how long) and are 3-7 in their last 10 and amazing 1-9 ATS with their only win and cover against Golden State. Sacramento has won the last three meetings and three of their last four games after getting blown out by the Celtics 144-119 at home Wednesday night. Kings might get caught peeking to Saturday night when they host Minnesota who has the NBA’s best record. Take PHOENIX!

Dallas at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (-) over Mavericks- Now, hold on a sec...I had to do a double check upon seeing the opening line on this encounter as it just ‘don’t make sense.’ Dallas is 16-11 SU including a stellar 9-5 both SU and ATS on the road and are such a heavy underdog to upstart Houston who is 13-12 SU on the year. Now, if my memory is correct the Mavericks have Luca Doncic and Kyrie Irving a pair of superstars but getting them on the court at the same time can be difficult. The have lost their last two and 3-of-4 while Irving has been on sabbatical the past six games and other injuries have depleted the Mavericks quality playing time. Take HOUSTON!

Atlanta at Miami 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Heat- Once again I am either being sucked into a play or I am on another winner and I think that it is the later of the two. Here is Miami four-games over .500 and Atlanta three games under .500 with the Heat at home a virtual pick’em. Injuries are playing  a huge part of this match-up as Atlanta returns Bogdan Bogdanovic to the line up while the Heat have numerous players on and off the work management goof and Jimmy Butler is often court side in street clothes. Take ATLANTA!

San Antonio at Chicago 7:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Bulls- When even thinking of playing San Antonio you have to pick your spots and although the Spurs have won just four of 26 games and are 2-10 SU on the road and are 5-7 ATS. I have stayed away from this bottom rung club posting them only twice and winning both times and this is a spot to play them. San Antonio has won just one of their last 20 games while Chicago has won two straight against the Sixers and Lakers. Victor Wembanyama rested Tuesday and should be ready tonight. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Alabama vs Arizona

Crimson Tide over Wildcats- Both clubs off losses with Alabama having dropped their last two to No. 1 Purdue and No. 8 Creighton and this will be their third consecutive Top-10 opponent. Arizona reached the top spot and as No. 1 at Purdue last Saturday they tasted defeat for the first time and fell, after a two week stint at No. 1. This game is a supposed to be played at a neutral site , but in Phoenix their will be little fan support for the Crimson Tide.  But the Tide ebbs and flows and they are ready to flow with their it’s ‘Us against the world’ attitude. Take ALABAMA!

North Carolina vs Oklahoma 9:00 ET

Sooners over Tar Heels- Man there are some bogus numbers surrounding these two squads that make this contest a ‘no mas’ for one side. North Carolina has n edge over the Sooners in offensive scoring averaging just a half more 84.9-to-84.4 but on the other end of the floor it is a totally different story. But, the only offensive stat which the Tar Heels are ranked within the Top-100 is that they make 21.2 free throws a game ranking #2 whole Oklahoma is within the Top-50 with four categories and two of which are Top-15.  Take OKLAHOMA

Atlanta at Houston 8:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Rockets- It wasn’t long ago Houston was one of the dregs of the NBA and although they have only two wins on the road they have currently won 11 straight home games. They have accomplished this by playing tough defense where they are ranked at the third best defense in the league. Atlanta is still trying to regain the form that had them advancing in the NBA playoffs as they are below .500 and just 6-20 ATS on the year. Trae Young has started to warm-up. hawks flying high tying to win their second consecutive game for just the second time since week two of the season. Take ATLANTA!

Denver at Toronto 8:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Nuggets- The price (line) on this game is a bit short when you have a sub .500 club up against the reigning NBA Champions. Denver having won the bet last season seems to be on cruise control so far and injuries and stars missing games have had its impact as well. The Nuggets are just 7-8 SU on the road and although struggling with their record Toronto has is starting to mesh together having five straight games with 30 assists. Take TORONTO!

Minnesota at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers over Timberwolves- Ya know, after Joel Embiid won the MVP last season (his numbers were good enough I expected a bit even ever so slight of a drop off in his level of play. I couldn’t have more off base as his numbers are better this season and he is even more deserving up to this point. Currently he has 11 straight games with30 points and 11 rebounds. So, kudos to Joel! But, it is Minnesota with the best record in basketball (20-5 ) after a come from behind win at Miami (A-play loser) so I’m a a little leery have to play on or against the T’wolves. But, I will. Take MINNESOTA!

Baylor vs Duke 7:00 ET

Bears (+) over Blue Devils- The old gray mare just ain’t what she used to be...and neither are the Blue Devils. Duke has won their last two games against Charlotte and Hofstra (not exactly powerhouses) and are now 7-3 on the year. Now, a Duke team that already had three losses and were 5-3 before playing a pair of powder puffs. Baylor after winning their first nine contests is off a loss at another supposed neutral site in Detroit falling to Michigan State (Megabucks winner). Ranked No 10 the Bears come up a small dog at Madison Square a place the Blue devils love to play and their history is to put on a show. The defenses of these two are very comparable but the Bears get the edge on offense and are ranked #2 in shooting 42.1% from 3-point range as well as being #3 with defensive rebounds. Take BAYLOR!

Boston at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Celtics- Boston who has played more home games than any other NBA team is off five straight wins at home and embarking on their first west coast trip facing the Warriors, Sacramento, the Lakers and Clippers. Golden State doesn’t look anything like the clubs that defeated the Celtics four-games to two in the 2022 NBA Finals. They started to look better last time out as Klay Thompson who had been slumping came to life along with Andrew Wiggins and of course Curry is still Curry. Curry’s streak of consecutive games with a 3-pointer ended at 286 games (five years) and will be starting a new streak tonight. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Marquette at Providence 8:30 ET

Friars (+) over Golden Eagles- Both of the clubs come in with glittering 9-2 records with only Marquette being ranked and at No. 6 at that. The Golden Eagles (They were the Warriors when Al McGuire led them to their National Championship) have made their brand most prominent in today’s game and they will be favored on the road against a team that is 8-0 at home. Friars losses to Kansas State and Oklahoma while beating up on weaklings at home but also defeated Wisconsin and Georgia. This one com down to the final buzzer...take PROVIDENCE!

Virginia at Memphis 7:00 ET

Tigers over Cavaliers- Both of these squads will be a part of the first 64 in the Big Dance come March and both survived with narrow wins on Saturday. Memphis -3.5 defeated Clemson 79-77 for the non-cover victory while the Cavaliers downed Northeastern 56-54 a game that wasn’t even n the board. The Tigers win over the ACC Tigers is a much more impressive getting the best of NE and by just two-point. Virginia will try and slow down the pace which they do very well, but the Tigers dealt with the same style deliberate play against Clemson and prevailed. Last time out I used Clemson as my Highest-Rated megabucks release and I said it was a game where usually when a non-ranked team is favored over a ranked team they are a play.Well, we busted that theory and played against it, tonight we are going back to it! The non-ranked Tigers are favored over the 22nd ranked Cavaliers...Take MEMPHIS!

Florida at Michigan 7:00 ET

Wolverines (+) over Gators- Every year I can count on one thing, and that is that the Florida Gators will be over-rated in basketball. The impostors are a shinny 7-3 SU but once again are a deal breaker when it come to turning a profit as thy are just 2-7-1 ATS. Michigan has had a rough road playing and losing to the likes of Memphis, Texas Tech, Oregon and Indiana while the Gators fell to Virginia and Baylor. Both clubs average 82.4 PPG with Florida holding a defensive edge, But, this is where improvement form scheduling help along with paying at home where the Wolves defense will stiffen. Take MICHIGAN!

Minnesota at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat over Timberwolves- Minnesota is finally playing the way may have expected for a number of season and have been one of the most impressive NBA teams this year. The Timberwolves have won 8-of-9 and 18 of their last 21 and have not lost consecutive games this season. Miami is off a tough 118-116 victory over Chicago with Jimmy Butler hitting the winning shot. The Heat are still difficult to beat and although they are just 3-9 ATS at home now they are playing in the underdog roll. Add that Kevin Love is healthy and has eased the pressure on Butler. Take MIAMI!

Seton Hall vs Missouri 5:00 ET

Pirates (+) over Tigers- I know how bad Seton Hall can actually be and when I saw Missouri come up such a short favorite my thoughts were that the tigers are probably over-rated by the public. It just looks so easy I have seen the Pirates up close and personal and maybe I am expecting too much early in he season but I was not impressed. With this game in Kansas city I expected Mizzu to be at least a 5.5-6-point favorites but the bookmaker thinks otherwise and I truly believe he knows more today than I do. The injury to Tigers guard Caleb Grill must be having a huge impact. Take SETON HALL!

Brooklyn at Golden State 8:30 ET

Nets (+) over Warriors- Conflict here because I beginning to think that it is time to fade Golden State and it is not just the Draymond Green thing...they just don;t seem to have what it takes this season with Klay Thompson having another disappointing start. If Curry is the only one that is the same, hey they will win their portion of games but my conflict comes from the Warriors starting the season 1-7 SU at home but have won five of their last six. But, overall Golden State has been a nightmare for their backers going 2-9 ATS at home. The Nets have been on the opposite side of the ledger and are 17-6-1 ATS on the season and 7-4 ATS on the road. Without a superstar the Nets don’t let their egos affect their performance. Take BROOKLYN!

Clemson at Memphis 3:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Tigers- Ha! Okay, so that their no confusion right off and that is Clemson is  he side for me. Some have questioned me because well, for the most part the rule to me is that when a non-ranked team is favored over a ranked team fade then ranked and that would Clemson. But, I am beginning to believe that after what I saw last season that maybe they have gone too far with unranked teams being favored over undefeated teams again Clemson. The difference should come down to the ACC defense because Memphis doesn’t play it as well. Take CLEMSON!!

Texas A&M at Houston 2:30 ET

Aggies (+) over Cougars- The No. 4 team in the nation will do battle with an instate rival as they host Texas A&M at a neutral site in Houston. The Cougars are though off as an offensive unit but it is their defense which is No. 1 in the nation allowing just 49.7 PPG while posting 10 straight wins against many inferior opponents. Texas A&M is off a gritty loss to Memphis snapping a 14-game home winning streak but will have to shoot better (39% last time out) to reach their season average of 76.6. With Houston undefeated on a Saturday afternoon a pair of state rivals clash and it has all the earmarks of a buzzer beater although Cougars hold a 53-32 series advantage. Still...Take TEXAS A&M!

Baylor at Michigan State 2:00 ET

Spartans (+) over Bears- I really like this Baylor club they are ranked No. 6 and are undefeated at 9-0 opening the year with a win over Auburn and currently they are 6-1-1 ATS overall. I can’t say too much that I like what I have seen from Michigan State (4-5) as ‘we’ have faded them three times Nebraska, Wisconsin and Arizona and won them all. But, MSU coach Tom Izzo is a great motivator and always gets the most out of his players even when their talent level is a step below their opponents. The Spartans have dropped from a preseason No. 4ranking to out of the Top-25...but, they must have something that we haven’t seen yet. Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Connecticut vs Gonzaga 10:00 ET

Huskies over Bulldogs- With this line (Connecticut favored) and these two clubs meeting in Seattle in the virtual home game for the Bulldogs and  it appears the Huskies are by far the superior team with this price. Gonzaga has been recognized with national prominence in recent seasons and UConn is the defending national champions but still, this price I would have thought if the Zags had a legitimate chance to win this line would be closer to pick-em. Bookmakers re .making it easy to take Bulldogs at home in their backyard. Huskies prevail. Take CONNECTICUT!

Orlando at Boston 7:30 ET

Magic (+) over Celtics- I always get a lump in my throat when playing against Boston as they may be the best balanced club in the NBA. The Celtics just swept Cleveland I their two-games back-to-back played over three days and they are now 12-0 SU at home. Although a game under .500 ARS on the season Boston still takes advantage of their home floor going 8-4 ATS at home and all as favorites. Tonight’s opposition is the up and coming Orlando Magic who are 17-6 ATS on the year to date and 6-4 ATS on the road and have won 11-of their last 13 games. Take ORLANDO!

Golden State at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Clippers- I believe that these two clubs have exchanged places in the NBA pecking order of late. LA is on a five game winning streak and have won 10 of 13 and tonight the are hosting a reeling Warriors who have lost three of four. Golden State although 10-13 is 8-4 ATS on the road while the Clippers are 9-3 ATS at home. These two have alternated wins and losses the last eight meetings and tonight it’s the Warriors turn. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Minnesota at Dallas 7:30 E

Timberwolves (+) over Mavericks- This year these two clubs both Minnesota and Dallas who have been floating in middle of the pack for the past few seasons but are having on a playoff track right now. The Mavericks are playing together this season after a year of turmoil that started after Kyrie Irving came over from the Nets. They and have won their last four and Irving has missed the past two games with a sore right heel. Minnesota had won seven in-a-row and 8-of-9 prior to their loss at New Orleans on Monday. Wolves on a mission this season and are 12-3 against Western foes. Take MINNESOTA!

Golden State at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Suns- Golden State has had a run behind the shooting of Stephen Curry and have had their way against most teams in the NBA in the past. But, last year they were just 11-30 on the road and their traveling woes have continued into this season where they have now lost five in-a-row. Phoenix who has loaded their roster with superstars will have Bradly Beal, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant on the floor together for the first time this season. The Suns haven’t played well of late losing five of six defeating lowly Memphis for their lone victory. Suns are 2-0 versus the Warriors this season and tonight their dreams of getting the Hat-trick will fall short. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Michigan State at Nebraska 6:30 ET

Cornhuskers (+) over Spartans- Both of these clubs are off losses and have yet to win a Big Ten contest. Nebraska has had their best start at 7-2 in 30 seasons while Michigan State hasn’t started 0-2 in conference action in three years while the Cornhuskers are trying to avoid their four straight 0-2 start to Big Ten play. Spartans struggling off the boards and have been out-rebounded this season while the ‘Huskers playing tough defense as this one comes down to the fianls buzzer. Take NEBRASKA!

Indiana vs LA Lakers 8:30 ET

Lakers (-) over Pacers- Although the NBA’s In-Season Tournament Finals are supposed to be played at a neutral site in Las Vegas, it is more like a Lakers home game with a strongly bias crowd in attendance. To travel to Las Vegas for these games if you are in New Orleans is a hardship to attend when these games were not even scheduled and the same goes for the fans in Indiana whereas for Lakers fans it is a whole different story from Los Angeles is not uncommon for LA people to drive here. Also, Vegas virtually adopts the LA teams and it’s a short hop or drive to Las Vegas.  LeBron James showcased his all around game in the Lakers rout of New Orleans playing just 23 minutes with 30 as he ran the show with eight rebounds and nine assists and tonight it will be ‘Show Time.” Pacers are good and I really like them but...Take LA LAKERS!

BYU at Utah 7:00 ET

Utes (+) over Cougars- This battle in the Beehive State has an undefeated BYU club that is bouncing back from a mediocre season last year. They have gotten off to an 8-0 start and lead the nation in scoring margin (32.9), 3-pointers per game (12.9) and bench points (40.8). Utah is always a tough foe for anyone and is 6-2 and have won three straight games. The Utes have the pleasure of hosting the Cougars first real road game of the year and and against this rival makes it more intense than they otherwise might expect. Take UTAH!

Arkansas vs Oklahoma 4:00 ET

Razorbacks (+) over Sooners- The Oklahoma (8-0) numbers are off the charts as they have dominated their opposition winning by an average margin of 23.5 ppg while scoring 85.5 and allowing 62.0 ppg. But, you have to figure that the Sooners have yet to play a road game although they do have a pair of neutral site wins, Arkansas are aggressive and go hard to the hoop averaging 10 more free throws a game than does Oklahoma. Razorbacks hold a 17-13 series lead and will give the Sooners all that they can handle. Take ARKANSAS!

Alabama at Purdue 1:30 ET

Crimson Tide (+) over Boilermakers- Last year’s National Player of the Year Zach Edey returns to his hometown of Toronto as Purdue and Alabama will go at it in the Hall of Fame Series as he was a member of Canada’s World Cup team. It looks like he might repeat the NCAA’s individual award as he is averaging 23.7 points on 63.6% shooting with 11.2 rebounds and 26 blocked shots. Both schools were No. 1 seeds last in the Final-4 last year and although the Crimson Tide have some work to do to reach that level of play but they can still hang with the big boys as evidenced  by their four wins by over 22 points. Take ALABAMA!  

Sacramento at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Kings over Suns- So, what I see here is a team with Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal as an underdog at home against a foe that is on their same level. Seeing Phoenix as an underdog raises questions and I think they are telling us the Kings have the answer. Take SACRAMENTO!

Golden State at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Thunder- Golden State has had a season’s worth of drama already this season. Starting with Dramond Green’s five-game suspension, Klay’s Thompson’s shooting woes and Stephen Curry’s health have them at 10-10. OKC is an upstart that will cause plenty of teams headaches and they have gotten the bookmakers respect when you see what the line is here. Thunder a false favorite against this veteran club that will respond here. Take GOLDEN STATE!

New Orleans vs LA Lakers 9:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Lakers- When Lebron James decides to go to the hoop he is still virtually unstoppable. If he misses the shot that’s fine but you really can not stop him from getting the shot off he is just too big and strong. Zion Williamson appears to be healthy and when he plays there is no stopping him, especially if he want to get to the basket, his all-around game has 22.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Indiana vs Milwaukee 5:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Bucks- The Pacers are the highest scoring team in the NBA and they averaged 128.4 points a game during their five game in-season tournament performances. Indiana has already defeated the Bucks at home this season a 126-124 victory where Giannis Antetokounmpo poured in 54 points. Milwaukee has one less day to get ready coming off a win over the Knicks on Tuesday. Take INDIANA!

Oklahoma City at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets over Thunder- After sitting out his rookie season Oklahoma City has seen amazing play from the former No. 1 draft pick Chet Holmgren who has been selected Rookie of the Month in both October and November. The Thunder have the second youngest team in the NBA with only San Antonio having the team with the least experience. OKC has been a beast on the road and is 7-2 away from home while Houston is a stellar 8-1 (7-1-1 ATS) when hosting. These two are the winningest ATS teams in the league with the Thunder at 14-5 ATS and the Rockets are 11-5-1 ATS despite being the only NBA team that has yet to win on the road but, at home...Take HOUSTON!

Rutgers at Wake Forest 6:00 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Demon Deacons- Under ordinary conditions I would think that Rutgers might struggle here as it is their first true road game (I always consider that) and that Wake Forest is 3-0 (2-1 ATS) at home. These two met last season with the Scarlet Knights winning big 81-57 as a 9-point home favorite. This time around the points are very short and I don’t think that we will even need the (always take them) points as the Deacons are top heavy with virtually all their scoring coming from just four players and the rest of the squad averaging just 3.3 ppg (the remaining roster). Depth is the Knights huge advantage. Take RUTGERS!

Oklahoma State at Southern Illinois 9:00 ET

Huskies over Cowboys- This is the first true road game for Oklahoma State and for a team that is 2-5 ATS in games on neutral and home courts that spells trouble. Add that the Cowboys are one of the worst shooting teams in the nation making just 45.3% for their field goal attempts ranking 154th and they are even worse from the free throw line hitting only 61.9% ranking 343rd. Southern Illinois has always been a personal favorite of mine since watching them playing in the NIT at Madison Square Garden and seeing a youthful Salukis in Walt Frazier who become ‘Clyde’ once he arrived in New York with the Knicks capturing the only two New York Knicks NBA Championships. Don’t be afraid of this non-power-5 club because these Cowboys are broke back...Take SOUTHERN ILLINOIS!

Cornell at Syracuse 8:00 ET

Big Red (+) over Orange- When these two colors clash there is nothing attractive from the result. Syracuse with Jim Boeheim or without him of late are not the Big East power many associate them to be.  In head-to-head match-ups which they play every season Syracuse has won the last ten but Big Red have covered 3-of-4 and are 7-1 this season with their only loss  at George Mason. The Orange are in the red going 1-6 ATS with their only cover against Chaminade. Take CORNELL!

New York at Milwaukee 7:30 ET
Knicks (+) over Bucks- Both of these clubs have picked up their action after slow starts. For Milwaukee the adjustment of adding Damion Lillard who replace Jrue Holiday and it took awhile to mesh together but they have won 10 of their last 13 and the Knicks after a 3-4 start have won 9-of-11. The Bucks are an impressive 9-1 SU at home although they covered only three of those games, while New York is 6-3-1 ATS on the road with six outright wins. The winner of this game comes to Las Vegas for this silly in-season NBA tourney (?) and the Knickerbockers will attract more money. Take NEW YORK!

Cincinnati at Jacksonville 8:15 ET

Bengals (+) over Jaguars- I believe that there has been a general over reaction to both of these team because of their recent play. So, trending to the negative are the Bengals and becoming the public’s choice the Jacksonville stock has never been higher. Cincinnati has dropped three straight while the Jaguars have won seven of eight and their only loss was to San Francisco. Jags QB Trevor Lawrence has better command of the offense now to go with his talents as he is learning how to win. Win...that is something the Bengals don’t understand for certain situations. What I say here is the truth and it is why I like them (Go figure). Here it is and this won’t be easy to swallow. The Bengals have lost nine straight Monday night road games (their last win came on Oct. 22, 1990 (that’s Oct. 22, 1990) and there is more, they have lost 15 straight prime-time road games and lastly they have lost 26 of 27 night road games. When you put it all together it seems that the Bengals don’t stand a chance and maybe they don’t but, when people have buried a team and assume they are done, that they have quit, that they are finished...that’s when amazing things start to happen. These guys are pro’s and after their inept offensive performance at Pittsburgh picking up only 10 first downs and gaining just 25 yards rushing i expect personal pride to rise up and for them to go toe-to-toe with the home club. Jake Browning gets his second start for the two-time defending division champs. Somehow, the money goes to CINCINNATI!

Iowa at Purdue 7:00 ET

Boilermakers (-) over Hawkeyes- Purdue was undefeated and ranked No. 1 until we posted Northwestern on Saturday and our ‘Highest-rated’ megabucks winner upset the Boilermakers 92-88 in overtime. The main reason they fell was not poor shooting or a hot hand of shooting by the Wildcats but, it was the fundamental aspect of taking care of the ball as they committed 17 turnovers and force only three. The Boilermakers are 8-3 in the last 11 meetings with Iowa winning only twice in West Lafayette since 2006 going 2-14. take PURDUE!

Creighton at Nebraska 4:00 ET

Cornhuskers (+) over Bluejays- No. 15 Creighton understands they are a target for most unranked clubs but the Rivalry for bragging right in Nebraska does exist and the Cornhuskers are ready for bear as they have the confidence needed with seven wins under their belt without a loss. It has been 30 years since Nebraska started 7-0 and each of their wins without a complete roster for any game by 10 points. Take NEBRASKA!

Clemson at Pittsburgh 2:00 ET

Panthers over Tigers- Clemson has started another ACC basketball conference play undefeated (7-0) as they do most seasons and like years past this will also be the Tigers first true road game. Regardless, of where this game is played the contrast in playing styles couldn’t be more pronounced. Pittsburgh has two losses the latest of which was to ranked Missouri and have had trouble shooting the ball but they can take any team out off their rhythm with a pressure defense that has opponents shooting well below their average. Tigers come up lame on the road...take PITT!

USC at Gonzaga 10:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Bulldogs- Las Vegas will be hosting a non-conference dual between Southern Cal and Gonzaga in their Legends of Basketball Invitational. Both of these clubs should qualify of the Big Dance come March as they meet for the third time with Gonzaga winning the previous two. Bronny James the USC recruit has return to the team after suffering a heart attack and is not expected to see any action tonight. Still, with three portal transfers the Trojans have enough firepower to play with the No. 11 Zags. Take USC!

Minnesota at Charlotte 5:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Timberwolves- Minnesota has finally started to play the kind of basketball that has been expected of them for a number of seasons right now having won their last three and six of their last seven as Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns are playing up to their talents. The Hornets are playing their best span of the season to date and has won their last three including a win at Brooklyn. Take CHARLOTTE!

Marquette at Wisconsin12:30 ET

Badgers (+) over Golden Eagles- Wisconsin who was 1-2 have now won four straight and will be pumped to be playing on of their greatest rivalries as Marquette invades Madison and they will be playing for there 130th meeting with the Badgers leading the series 70-59 that started in 1917. Defense is the key for Wisconsin as they have held their last four opponents to 54.8 PPG. Take WISCONSIN!

Connecticut at Kansas 9:00 ET

Huskies (+) over Jayhawks- Ya know this Connecticut team may be right...here they are National Champions who dominated the entire NCCAM basketball scene the second half of the year and had one of the most impressive tournament performances in NCAA history. Still hey have not lost a game and are 7-0 yet they are ranked no higher than No. 4. Kansas who is No. 5 is 6-1 with their loss coming at the hands of Marquette in the Maui Invitational. The Huskies who find themselves the underdog have been favored by 32, 36, 45, 39 and 26 points this season and now get to bite as the dogs they are...Huskies! Take CONNECTICUT!

Purdue at Northwestern 9:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Boilermakers- Can the do it again? Does lighting strike twice do the Wildcats have the Boilermakers number...we shall kind out Friday night in Evanston. Last season No. 1 Purdue was upended by the Wildcats 64-58 knocking Purdue off the Top ranking. The ‘Iron workers’ are undefeated and once are ranked No.1 and are 7-0 already with wins over three ranked teams #11 Gonzaga, #7 Tennessee and #4 Marquette. Northwestern has only one loss and is determined to have their basketball program recognized that they are the rise. This is Purdue first true road game and it being a conference game adds intensity from the Wildcats who are 4-0 at home. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Philadelphia at Boston 7:30 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- The only issue that I have with this contest is the condition of MVP Joel Embiid. Embiid is having an even more impressive season that last year’s run and he is looking to capture his first NBA Championship. The 76ers are 0-2 with him in the line-up and he rested Wednesday. This is the rhird meeting of the year between these two and they have split with both game being played in Philadelphia. Boston is a perfect 8-0 at home going a more than respectable 6-2 ATS while the Sixers are 5-3 on the road a much improved record away from home than in recent seasons. Celtics will be without center Kristaps Porizingis and Joel will take advanatge of his absence. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Maryland at Indiana 7:00 ET

Hoosiers (-) over Terrapins- The Indiana brand has taken a hit in recent seasons as they are looking to regain their national stature and have started 5-1. Hoosiers 7’0” center Kel’el Ware has been impressive with his all-around game leading his club in points, rebounds, blocks and steals. Maryland at 4-3 is off to a shaky start but have a star of their own in Julian Reese who had 22 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks last time out and looks to counter the Hoosiers big man. Indiana coach Mike Woodson admits that there are times Ware doesn’t put out his best effort. We can’t have that...take MARYLAND!

Charlotte at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Nets- The no-name Nets may end up being the biggest surprise in the NBA this season because defense travels well and they play it. Brooklyn has won their last three and their 3-point shooting has been the key factor. Charlotte on the other hand has lost their last two by double digits on the road to Orlando and the Knicks. The Nets have won the last five meetings including three straight by 12 points or more. I expect a better effort out of the Hornets tonight. Take CHARLOTTE!

Indiana at Miami 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Heat- The Heat have cooled off losing their last three games nd Jimmy Butler who is questionable tonight. He isn’t the only Miami player on the shelf as Tyler Hero has missed 10 straight and their best defensive forward Haywood Highsmith is out as well. The Heat pay pressure defense something the Pacers no nothing about as they are 29th in defensive rating but number 1 on offensive NBA pace of play. The Heat have too many men down and the Pacers will ware what is left down Take INDIANA!

Texas Tech at Butler 6:30 ET

Red Raiders (+) over Butler- Neither of these clubs are ranked among the Top-25 but that doesn’t mean that one or the other or both won’t get there or end up there, they both have programs that have played quality basketball over time. Butler seems to be a bit short here after posting wins over Penn State and Boise State after getting tripped up by No. 19 Florida Atlantic 91-86 getting 6.5 and are 3-0 ATS in their last three and 3-0 at home. Texas Tech has gone 5-1 SU but just 2-4 ATS ad this is their first true road game and that is something that I usually like to play against but they have had two neutral tournament games. After losing to a weak Villanova squad 85-69, they responded with a 73-57 win over Michigan as a 2.5 home dog. The number tell me that it is a Red Raiders day. Take TEXAS TECH!

Texas A&M at Virginia 7:15 ET

Cavaliers over Aggies- Well, this will be my attempt this season in college basketball where I will be using a tried and true trend in NCAAM. Texas A&M is ranked No. 14 and they come to Charlottesville in the SEC/ACC Challenge and here we have an un-ranked Virginia team a favorite on the opening line against a ranked team Texas A&M club. The Cavaliers (5-1) are a gutty crew that wears you down and are 3-0 at home while the Aggies are 2-0 in their only two road games. This will be a contrast of styles as A&M likes to run the court and throws up over 64.4 shots per game averaging 79.3 ppg while the Cavs attempt just 51 shots but hold their opponents to 53.1 ppg ranked No. 2 in the nation. Take VIRGINIA!

Toronto at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Nets- Brooklyn has a new look this season with all of their previous superstar players gone and the youth movement is showing signs of brilliance. They set an NBA record last time out with a record 11 three-point shots in one quarter as they defeated Chicago 118-109 after trailing by 21 points. But, the Nets will be short-handed tonight with three players watching from court-side and most important they will be without Nic Claxton. Toronto is coming off their worst shooting night of the season in their 105-103 loss at Cleveland. Fortunes changes tonight. Take TORONTO!

Atlanta at Boston 6:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Celtics- Well it has happened again, Celtics center Kristap Porzingis will be out once again for an unknown period after an MRI yesterday. These two clubs met in the NBA Playoffs last season with Boston winning the series 4-2 winning the first two and splitting the next four games for the series victory. The Celtics are a perfect 6-0 SU at home and 4-2 ATS while the Hornets are 5-2 SU in their last seven games on the road. The points may come into play here. Take ATLANTA

Charlotte at Orlando 6:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Magic- These two clubs have started to put things together as host Orlando has won six in-a-row while after a poor start Charlotte has won their last two over Boston and Washington by a 3-point bucket. The Hornets won just three of their first 12 games but with the return to action by Miles Bridges from suspension for domestic violence. Combined with LaMelo Ball who is healthy make the Hornets that much better. Take CHARLOTTE!

Phoenix at New York 6:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Suns- Both Phoenix and New York saved their NBA in-season tournament lives with wins their last time out. The Suns routed Memphis and keep the pressure on lte although they had a huge lead because during this in-season competition point differential is a factor in advancement. After starting 2-4 the Knicks have won seven wins in their last nine games while the Suns who started 3-6 has won seven straight. So the Suns are hot but with will cool in NYC today. Take NEW YORK!

Dallas at L.A. Clippers 10:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Mavericks- Last season when Dallas acquired Kyrie Irving many expected the Mavericks to take off and pose a threat to make some noise during the playoffs. but alas they went straight into the tank from the trade day forward. This year it seems that Dallas is able to mesh all their talent and is now a legitimate contender. LA have had their own troubles meshing new talent and had won three in-a-row until last night as New Orleans ended their mini streak. Look for the Clippers to start a new streak tonight. Take the LA CLIPPERS!

Kings (+) over Timberwolves- The Minnesota Timberwolves are off to their franchise best start to a season as they are off to an 11-3 start which is tops in team history and has propelled them to the top of the Western Conference standings. They are 7-0 at home. Sacramento is coming off back-to-back losses on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans. The Kings were outscored by 36 points in their first loss to the Pelicans and lost by five points in the second contest. The teams played each other four times last season, with Minnesota posting a 3-1 record. The Timberwolves won both of their games on the road and the teams split their meetings in Minnesota. Look for the Kings to rebound here and for the Wolves to slide. Take SACRAMENTO!

Denver at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Nuggets- The Nuggets will conclude a five-game road trip on Friday against the Houston Rockets, who earned a 107-104 home win over Denver on Nov. 12. To avoid a second loss in Houston in as many meetings, the Nuggets will have to reclaim the defensive intensity they've lacked. Without Murray, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, the Nuggets can't afford to be pedestrian defensively. Denver suffered its third defeat in four games by producing a defensive effort that lacked all the hallmarks of a championship contender. The Rockets have excelled thus far with their balanced offensive attack, but their offense thrives when Jalen Green takes a more assertive approach and capitalizes on his natural scoring ability. Take HOUSTON!

Golden State at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Suns- The Suns have gone on to win four more times on the road to improve to 5-2 on the season away from Phoenix. They have struggled at home, however, needing a 120-107 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday to reach 3-4 for the season. Meanwhile, the Warriors lost six of seven at home before recording a 121-116 win over the Houston Rockets on Monday. But they've nearly gotten themselves up to .500 for the season (7-8) by going 5-2 on the road. Chris Paul will be making his first return to Phoenix since being dealt by the Suns to the Washington Wizards in June. The Wizards in turn rerouted him to Golden State in July. Paul has enjoyed more than his fair share of success against the Suns in his career. He has averaged 19.3 points and 9.2 assists over 46 career games versus Phoenix. Take GOLDEN STATE

Toronto at Indiana 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Pacers - The Pacers are coming off a 157-152 road win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night in an NBA in-season tournament game in which they shot 60.6 percent from the floor. Indiana has won all three of its tournament games and has clinched a quarterfinal spot with one game remaining. The Raptors will complete a two-game, two-day road trip after losing 126-107 to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday. Toronto fell to 0-2 in in-season tournament action. The Raptors were coming off a 142-113 home victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, when they recorded a team-record 44 assists. The Pacers won all three matchups with the Raptors last season after Toronto won three of the teams' four meetings in 2021-22. This time it is TORONTO

Denver at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Nuggets- With two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic back in the lineup, the Nuggets will look to record their second straight win on Wednesday night when they visit the Orlando Magic. The Denver Nuggets overcame the early departure of their best player to snap a four-game road skid in their last outing. Jokic, who boasts team-best averages in points (27.4), rebounds (13.1) and assists (8.7) this season. Now winners of four in a row, the Magic opened their six-game homestand with a 126-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday in an NBA in-season tournament game. Take ORLANDO!

Utah at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers (-) over Jazz- I don’t know if the players know or even care which games are a part of this silly in-season NBA tournament. The Lakers are the only 3-0 team in this tourney and can advance to the knockout round (what ever that means) with a win over Utah tonight. It could be Lebron James is aware of the significance of these contests and rises his level of play (if possible). Tournament victories over the Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers followed, giving the Lakers a tourney-best plus-42 point differential. The Jazz aren't having the season they were looking for, yet they have found success in the in-season tournament at 2-1 after and the Jazz enter this fray off a 140-137 double-overtime defeat to the Phoenix Suns on Sunday in Salt Lake City. Still, Take LA LAKERS!

New York at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Timberwolves- Minnesota won four of those five games and has won nine of 12 to start the season while the Knicks are  riding a three-game winning streak and has won six of its past seven games. Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks with 24.2 points per game. RJ Barrett is next at 21.6 ppg, and Julius Randle (19.4) and Immanuel Quickley (15.5) round out the top four scorers. Anthony Edwards leads Minnesota with 26.0 points per game. Karl-Anthony Towns is averaging 21.7 points, and then there is a drop-off to the third- and fourth-highest scorers, Naz Reid (12.6) and Rudy Gobert (11.7). The Knicks and Timberwolves split their two meetings last season. The Knicks cruised in Minneapolis and the Timberwolves returned the favor with a win in New York. More of the same...take NEW YORK!

Denver at Cleveland 6:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Nuggets- Aside from two-time MVP Nikola Jokic Denver’s other big gun is Jamal Murray who will be out for at least two more weeks. The Nuggets are 3-2 since he went down on November 4 with both losses coming on the road.. Part of the problem has been the lack of production from Denver's bench as two key reserves from last season's title run Bruce Brown and Jeff Green left via free agency. The Cavaliers will be without leading scorer Donovan Mitchell but his replacement Darius Garland has picked up the slack scoring 29 ppg. Take CLEVELAND!

Philadelphia at Brooklyn 3:00 ET

Nets (+) over 76ers- The 76ers average the third-most points per game (120.4) in the NBA entering play on Saturday, with the three-headed monster of Joel Embiid (31.9), Tyrese Maxey (26.9) and Tobias Harris (20.3) accounting for 65.7 percent of that scoring. Last season the 76ers swept the Nets in the first round of the playoffs and did the same during the regular season willing all four meetings. This time around the Nets will give Philly some competition. Take BROOKLYN!

Dallas at Milwaukee 8:10 ET

Mavericks (+) over Bucks- The Bucks may have won by 34 points last night in Charlotte but they are far from a well oiled machine so to speak. After failing to ‘cover’ in seven straight games (0-6-1 ATS) they have won their last three getting the money in their last two. Dallas has meshed this season after a disaster after acquiring Kyrie Irving and many expected him to be moved in the off-season and they are glad that they stood pat. Kyrie missed Wednesdays win at Washington the second of back-to-back games but has found his missing left sock and can play Saturday. Take DALLAS!

Miami at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Heat- Two teams moving in different direction as Miami has won seven in-a-row while the Bulls have dropped their last three. Chicago managed just 33 points in the first half of consecutive games in Orlando which is an NBA low for the season. Coach Billy Donovan is looking to pick up the tempo now that DeMar DeRozan has return to action after a personal issue. The Bulls have won three straight against Miami including their lone meeting last season. They do it again...take CHICAGO!

New York at Charlotte 6:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Knicks- When I look at the Charlotte roster I am trying to figure out if they are having a poor start or are they really this bad. At 3-7 and having lost their last three while getting blown out twice including last night by the Bucks 130-99. New York has won their last two and 5-of-6 including a 129-107 home win over the Hornets ix days ago on Saturday. Hornets All-Stars Gordon Hayward and LeMalo Ball are off terrible shooting nights and I expect a turn-a-bout is in order hear and for the Hornets to be standing tall at the end. Take CHARLOTTE!

Boston at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Celtics- Toronto who is off a loss to Milwaukee on Wednesday has just completed a 4-game road trip while their stop in Boston was disappointing as they fell to the Celtics 117-94. Boston has won four straight with the latest a 117-107 win over Philadelphia on Wednesday and could be a little leg weary after that bruising battle. Celts have won the past three meetings all at home. It is only fair that the Raptors return the favor. Take TORONTO!

Boston College at Pittsburgh 7:00 ET

Panthers over Eagles- This game has got to be in the ‘gaff’ for Pittsburgh to win. Boston College is so superior that they had already become Bowl eligible before last weeks annihilation at Virginia Tech ending their five-game winning streak. Now, at  2-8 after off a loss to Syracuse who plated the entire game without a quarterback (that’s right) and still lost  28-13. so, trying to grasp Pitt being favored...I have to put my trust that the bookmaker knows more than I do...therefore or ergo take...PITTSBURGH.

Sacramento at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers over Kings- We now have to be concerned with which NBA players are on time management, which are injured and which of those who don’t play while actually on the court. De’Aaron Fox has returned from a five game absence and Lebron James has returned from a one-day off because of a calf bruise. The Lakers’ Anthony Davis has also returned from a one-game absence and appears fully recovered from his latest lame aliment. LA is on a three-game winning streak and captured the win here. Take LA LAKERS!

Cleveland at Portland 10:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Trailblazers- Portland was not expected to be contenders this season and so far the pundits have been right on as they return home after a three game road trip and four straight losses. Cleveland has been a bit overpriced as they are here but have defeated the Trailblazers in each of the last four meetings and the wins were by 18 points at home and six points in Portland. This line is stating that the Blazers who committed 17 turnovers in their last contest and had seven players with two or more has its NBA stock at a low price. Take CLEVELAND!

Minnesota at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Suns (-) over Timberwolves- After sweeping a two game set at Golden State Minnesota must now go to Phoenix where the 4-6 Suns will be waiting. The Timberwolves are off to their best start in franchise history at 7-2 while the Suns are just 1-4 at home and have dropped their last two. Phoenix has won eight of the last nine meeting with the T’wolves pulling off the victory in their last meeting last January in the desert. This seems like a really high price to pay as Phoenix has yet to put it together offensively ranking 22nd while Minnesota’s defense is No.1 overall. But, last night’s win over the Warriors took its toll and the Suns will take advantage. Take PHOENIX!

Minnesota at Golden State 10:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Warriors- The Minnesota will look to a sweep of a back-to-back set against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco on Tuesday night in an NBA in-season tournament game. The Timberwolves shot 52.4 percent during a 116-110 win at Golden State in the opener of the two-game, same-site matchup on Sunday. Defensively they limited the Warriors to 38.5 percent shooting overall and 12-for-43 (27.9 percent) from beyond the arc. Draymond Green blamed the Warriors' poor offensive night on a lack of organization. Afterall these years? Take MINNESOTA!  

LA Clippers at Denver 10:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Nuggets- The Los Angeles Clippers traded for James Harden but so far they've stumbled with him in the mix. Los Angeles has lost five straight games, four of those with Harden in the lineup. Denver is coming off a loss at Houston on Sunday night in a game that showed how much the absence of Jamal Murray is affecting the Nuggets' rotations. Reggie Jackson has moved into the starting lineup and has played well, and rookie Collin Gillespie has served as the backup point guard. It didn't work out well against the Rockets as the bench was outscored 31-8 by Houston's reserves. Take the LA CLIPPERS!

Indiana at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over 76ers-Tyrese Maxey scored a career-high 50 points and Joel Embiid collected 37 points and 13 rebounds to fuel the host Philadelphia 76ers to a 137-126 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night. Philadelphia shot 50.5 percent from the floor (53 of 105) and held a sizable 54-32 edge in rebounds. Philadelphia 76ers looks for their ninth consecutive victory as they host the Indiana Pacers in the league's in-season tournament. While the loss stung, Carlisle is confident in his group. Indiana didn't struggle offensively but it was the defensive end of the court that was troublesome. They will make huge adjustment for this rematch. Take INDIANA

Minnesota at Golden State 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Warriors- Streaks are common in the NBA and Timberwolves are riding a five-game winning streak, the Warriors won five in a row earlier this season. They have since lost three of their past four games. Former Timberwolves small forward Andrew Wiggins is averaging 11 points per game, still is struggling from 3-point range, however. He went 1-for-4 from beyond the arc on Saturday and is 4-for-24 on the season a 16.7 percent clip. For his career, he is shooting 35.2 percent from long distance. The T’wolves are playing like a team that is determined to move it in class, a win here would help. Take MINNESOTA!

Dallas at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Mavericks- The New Orleans Pelicans will try to bounce back from a 0-3 road trip when they host the Mavericks on Sunday night.Dallas is beginning a four-game road trip with two games against New Orleans in three days. The Mavericks on the road did in lose to the Nuggets, Timberwolves and Rockets in a span of five days on their first road trip. New Orleans had a nine-point lead in the fourth quarter against the host Houston Rockets before falling 104-101 on Friday. New Orleans played without three injured starters CJ McCollum (lung), Herbert Jones (bruised fibula) and Trey Murphy III (knee) but expect some of that firepower back. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Pacers (+) over 76ers- The surging 76ers and Indiana Pacers carry winning streaks into their clash on Sunday in Philadelphia. The 76ers, who also will host the Pacers on Tuesday in an NBA in-season tournament game, recorded their seventh straight victory over the Detroit Pistons on Friday. Indiana, in turn, notched its third consecutive win on Thursday a 126-124 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton collected his seventh double-double in eight games this season and Bennedict Mathurin added his first career double-double with a season-high 26 points and 11 rebounds. Pacers improved...Take INDIANA!

Cleveland at Golden State 8:30 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Cavaliers- This rematch already is the Cavaliers' fourth of a season that is only nine games old. The difference this time is Cleveland beat the opponent in the first meeting. The Warriors will be involved in a rematch for the second time this season. They swept the rival Sacramento Kings. Both teams enter the matchup coming off losses. Despite a 6-3 record, Warriors starters have been outscored by an average of half a point per game so far. On the other hand, the reserves lead the NBA with a plus-5.3 margin per game. It is time for the Cavaliers...take CLEVELAND!

San Diego State at BYU 9:00 ET

Cougars over Aztecs- Now, here we have one of those situations where the odds-maker have make a Final Four participant an underdog against a un-ranked team. No. 17 San Diego State who caught the attention of America last year making it to the NCAAM Finals has always had trouble when playing BYU. The Cougars hold a 50-27 series edge over the Aztecs including 30-4 all-time in Provo. Take BYU!

New Mexico vs St. Mary’s 10:00 ET

Lobos (+) over Gaels- This will be the second straight season that New Mexico (1-0) has made the trek to play the Gaels. The Lobos enjoyed a successful journey last year as they stopped the St. Mary’s 23-game home winning streak with a 69-65 decision, part of a 14-0 start that briefly got New Mexico ranked in the Top 25. The Lobos tuned up for the rematch by walloping Texas Southern 92-55 on Monday night in its season opener in Albuquerque. It was the largest margin of victory for the Lobos vs. a Division I foe under third-year coach Richard Pitino. Ordinarily, I would look to play against the Lobos with a win like that and with revenge in Saints favor but I was reminded that a Pitino was coaching. Take NEW MEXICO!

Atlanta vs Orlando 930 ET

Hawks (-) over Magic - In Mexico City my first thought is, which team has the most number of player sharing minutes because it is different playing at this altitude. Atlanta reeled off four consecutive wins before falling 126-117 to the host Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday. The Hawks went 3-1 against Orlando last season and has won nine of the past 11 meetings. t marks the first time the Hawks will play in Mexico. The Magic played games against the Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz in Mexico in December 2018. Orlando won both games on that visit and will look to bounce back from a 117-102 home loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Monday. Take ORLANDO.

Toronto at Dallas 8:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Mavericks- Dallas has won six of its first seven games and has the second-best record in the NBA behind the defending champion Denver Nuggets. The Mavericks' lone loss came against the 7-1 Nuggets. Toronto is 1-1 on a four-game road trip that included a wild 123-116 overtime win over the host San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. The Raptors overcame a 22-point deficit and rebounded from a porous 35-point first half to score 88 after intermission. The teams split two meetings last season, with Toronto's victory in the second matchup halting the Mavericks' four-game winning streak in the all-time series and they dot again. Take TORONTO!

Cleveland at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Thunder- The Cleveland Cavaliers struggled during a four-game stretch without Darius Garland. Without Garland, Cleveland went 1-3. With him, the Cavs are 2-1 so far this season, including Sunday's 115-104 win over Golden State. One of the losses without Garland came on Oct. 27, a 108-105 setback at home against the Thunder. Wednesday's game is the last of a season-long six-game homestand for the Thunder, who are 2-3 so far during the stretch. Oklahoma City is coming off a 126-117 win over Atlanta on Monday that snapped a two-game losing streak. Oklahoma City is next-to-last in the league in offensive rebounding percentage at 23.1 percent and are near the bottom in overall rebounding percentage at 47.5 percent. Take CLEVELAND!

Phoenix at Chicago 7:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Suns- The Phoenix Suns stopped a three-game losing streak on Sunday although the team remains cautious when it comes to the return of guards Devin Booker (calf) and Bradley Beal (back). Booker hasn't played since suffering a calf strain against San Antonio on Thursday and Beal hasn't played for his new team since the preseason.  Chicago snapped a three-game skid of its own on Monday with a 130-113 home rout of Utah that saw a season-high eight Bulls score in double figures. The Suns are coming off their first back-to-back this season. Phoenix has won seven straight games against Chicago and yet opened an underdog for this one...Take CHICAGO!

Auburn vs Baylor

Tigers (+) over Bears-  No. 20 Baylor and Auburn will meet Tuesday when they open their respective seasons at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, S.D. Baylor was 23-11 last season and lost to Creighton in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The Bears return just one starter, forward Jalen Bridges from the 2022-23 team. Auburn is also in rebuilding mode, but not as drastically as the Bears are. The Tigers went 21-13 in 2022-23 and also advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament before losing to Houston. Five-star freshman Aden Holloway, a 2023 McDonald's All-American, is the highlight of the Tigers' incoming class and is expected to step into the starting point guard position. Of the 10 players in the Tigers' anticipated rotation, eight are upperclassmen. Take AUBURN!

New Orleans at Denver 9:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Nuggets-  Despite getting Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram back into the lineup on Friday New Orleans dropped their contest to Atlanta. They are hoping things will start clicking when they visit the Denver Nuggets but will be without guard CJ McCollum, who suffered a form of collapsed lung. The Nuggets will likely be without one of their stars if point guard Jamal Murray can't go. Murray, the team's second-leading scorer at 16.3 points a game. The Nuggets have won six of their first seven but play close here. Take NEW ORLEANS! 

Milwaukee at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Bucks- Milwaukee has yet to mesh with Damian Lillard who can add fire-power to a line-up will also affect others production. He scored 30 and Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 22 in their win over the Knicks Friday and Jae Crowder added 14 points, Brook Lopez and MarJon Beauchamp contributed 13 apiece and Khris Middleton chipped in 12 while playing fourth-quarter minutes for the first time this year as the Bucks limit the guard's minutes. The Nets have split their first six games and began a stretch of 11 out of 14 games at home with a 124-114 loss to the Boston Celtics on Saturday to complete their first back-to-back set. The Nets rested Ben Simmons for the first time and their offense also produced a season-low 22 assists while scoring nine second-chance points.  Simmons is available Monday,and the Nets will likely start Dorian Finney-Smith at center. The Bucks won three of four meetings last season, while the Nets posted an 118-100 win at home on Dec. 23. I expect more of the same tonight. Take BROOKLYN!

LA Clippers at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks over Clippers- James Harden will make his 2023-24 debut Monday, when he and the Los Angeles Clippers visit the Knicks in the first clash of the season between the teams. Harden played a total of just 159 games in three seasons for the Brooklyn Nets and 76ers since January 2021. He will be added to a starting lineup that includes Paul George, Kawhi Leonard and Russell Westbrook. Only one of those four is a winner and yet he is a dog. New York Knicks are more concerned with ensuring they are more than Jalen Brunson who was 17 of 30 from the field while finishing with 45 points, on Friday’s 110-105 loss at Milwaukee. The 40-point game was the fifth for Brunson since he joined New York prior to last season. The Knicks are 0-2 both SU and ATS at home dropping games to Boston and Cleveland this year but will post their first MSG home win of the season tonight. Take NEW YORK!  

Toronto at San Antonio 3:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Spurs- The San Antonio Spurs will look to build on a rousing pair of victories when they return home to host the struggling Toronto Raptors on Sunday afternoon. The Spurs took two road games in three days from the Phoenix Suns, winning in the final seconds 115-114 on Tuesday after trailing the entire game.Then they dominated the Suns on Thursday, leading by as many as 27 points with Wembanyama scoring 38 points. The Raptors have dropped four of their past five games and are 0-2 on the road. Sunday's contest is the second of a four-game road trip that will see Toronto also play at Dallas and Boston. Toronto  has won five straight games against the Spurs dating back to a loss at San Antonio in December of 2020. The Raptors handed the Spurs their worst loss of the 2022-23 season in a 143-100 decision in November of 2022 and they are more than capable of winning here having posted one of their two wins over Milwaukee. Take the RAPTORS!

Chicago at Denver 9:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Nuggets- Both teams are coming off the opening of group play for the in-season tournament on Friday night. Chicago fell at home to the Brooklyn Nets, 109-107, while the Nuggets beat the visiting Dallas Mavericks 125-114. The Nuggets historically are dominant at home, including last season, when they went 34-7 in the regular season and 10-1 in the playoffs in Denver. One team that got them on their court was the Chicago Bulls, who came to Denver on March 8 and beat the Nuggets 117-96. The Bulls already have had one ‘players only’ meeting and it seems to have helped. Take CHICAGO!