Cleveland at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Cavaliers-

Cleveland is coming off one of the season’s most dramatic wins as Max Strus made his seventh 3-pointer of the night a 59-foot buzzer beater to give them a 121-119 victory. Chicago is off a terrible 105-95 loss to Detroit their second of the year to a team that has won just nine games this season with a pair of those victories came  against the Bulls. The Cavs have won the past seven meetings including three this season while the Bulls had won the previous three. Bulls man up. Take CHICAGO!

Dallas at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Mavericks- Dallas really thought that they had something going winning seven straight (6-1 ATS) heading to Indiana who was a Megabucks winner running the Mavericks out 133-111. Cleveland after dropping two straight posted a much needed win over lowly Washington Sunday but are 0-5 ATS in their past five games overall. The Cavaliers have won the last three meetings including one this season in December 113-110 as a 6-point underdog. The beat goes on...take CLEVELAND!

Brooklyn at Memphis 8:00 ET

Nets (-) over Grizzlies- Kevin Ollie has taken over the reins of the Nets and so far there has not been any change in Brooklyn’s performances. Memphis has not been the sae since the troubled Ja when down and they are 2-10 in their last 12 games overall and the Nets under Ollie are just 2-8. The fact that te Nets are favored on the road where they are 8-18 SU on the road. Take BROOKLYN!

Milwaukee at Philadelphia 1:10 ET

76ers (+) over Bucks- There is no question that Philadelphia is a totally different team without MVP Joel Embiid in the line-up. The 76ers even without their superstar who was leading the league in scoring when he went down will be ready to greet their former mentor and last season’s coach Doc Rivers return to the ‘City of Brotherly Love.’ I do not believe he will be welcomed back and he should hear it from the Philly faithful who are known to extremely rude. Milwaukee is 4-7 since Doc took the reins.Te PHILADELPHIA!

Boston at New York 8:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics- The NBA’s best team the Boston Celtics (record wise) has won a season high seven games in-a-row and look to win their fourth game this season over the Knicks. New York is a legitimate threat when they are healthy but right now the are missing key personnel. The Knicks just ended a 4-game losing streak as their deep bench provided the points needed with Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson ad OG Anunoby all sidelined. New York is led by Jalen Brunson and they are 19-8 SU at home and with NYK’s injuries it is just too much to overcome. Take BOSTON!

Phoenix at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Suns- The Rockets who surprised the league with the quality of their plat early on in the season have hit a patch where they have dropped six of their past seven games including a 127-105 blowout loss against New Orleans. Phoenix has had to deal with injuries but have managed to win five of six but will be without Bradley Beal. The Suns dropped to 14-12 while playing Beal-less nd are 12-14-1 ATS on the road whereas Houston is 19-9 SU at home and have won two-of-the-last three meetings. Take HOUSTON!

Houston at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Pelicans- New Orleans who had won seven of eight game before the All-star break including a win over these same Rockets. But, Houston did win the first two meetings back before the New Year. The Rockets have lost six of eight and five of six before they break as they have cooled off after their attention getting start but, they haven’t won back-to-back games since January 1-3. The break has given some of the Rockets time to heal and I expect a fresh effort here tonight. Take HOUSTON!

Boston at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Celtics- Boston has won three of the last four meetings including a 124-97 blowout in Boston in late November, but they are 5-5 straight up in the last 10 with Chicago going 8-2 ATS. The Celtics by far have the best record in the NBA and I expect the rest of the pack will close that gap a bit and they could wane their way back to the pack. Take CHICAGO!

Brooklyn at Toronto 7:00 ET

Nets (+) over Raptors- A pair of NBA dregs hook-up and there isn’t many positive things that can be said about either club. There records are similar with Brooklyn having a slight edge SU 21-33 to the Raptors 19-36 and almost identical ATS records of 24-27-3 ATS for the nets and 26-29 ATS for Toronto. The Nets have had their way with the Raptors winning and covering 8-of-10 meetings and with new coach Kevin Ollie leading the youngsters will hopefully at least for tonight energizes the visitor. Take BROOKLYN!

Golden State at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz over Warriors- Golden State has to have an eerie feeling coming to Utah to make up a contest that was canceled because of the untimely death of coach Dejan Milojevic. Utah has turned their season around after starting 4-11 as they have won 12 of 14 and are now 22-20 on the year. Draynond Green has return to the lineup for Golden State after his second suspension of the season and the Warriors are virtually a different team when he is on the floor. The Jazz have dropped three straight including a 129-107 home loss to the Warriors three days ago but are 18-8 ATS at home. Take UTAH!

Sacramento at Denver 9:00 ET

Kings (+) over Nuggets- The defending NBA Champions have dropped two straight for the first time since December losing by 17 to Milwaukee Monday and on Friday lost at Sacramento by 29 points. Usually I would be jumping on Denver in a situation like this where a team returns home and plays a club that crushed them on the road a few days earlier. But, the Nuggets are hurting and most likely will be without their starting back court including Jamal Murray. The Kings have lost their last two but have defeated Denver in the past two meetings and 3-of-4. Take SACRAMENTO!

Oklahoma City at Orlando 7:30 ET

Magic (+) over Thunder- Step-by-step the Magic are progressing and it started with No. 1 draft pick Paolo Banchero who was Rookie of the Year last season and earned an All-star berth this year. The injured have returned and Orlando is at full strength and have won back-to-back games and five of six. The Thunder have won nine of their last 13 games but will be without their two newcomers in Gordon Hayward and Bismack Biyombo. Magic sprinkle dust over OKC and get the in. Take ORLANDO!

Golden State at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Warriors- Both of these two clubs are off games against a common opponent with different results. Golden State used a last second 3-point shot by Stephen Curry to defeated Phoenix 113-112 whereas Utah who last played at Phoenix on Thursday fell 129-115 to the Suns. The Jazz are 18-6 ATS at home and get the cash tonight. Take UTAH!

New York at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Knicks- It is really a shame what has happened to the Knicks because the have accumulated some awesome talent and were just starting to put it together and were making a move on the top tier of squads. But, alas a plethora of injuries have beset New York and even coach Thibodeau admits there will be a period of adjustment. Houston has dropped four straight games and is having issues with injuries as well. The price of this contest has me on the home team. Take HOUSTON!

Indiana and New York 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Knicks- New York has become a legitimate threat in the East as they have made huge player additions that put this club in another level. The Knicks have  the chemistry that is needed when ‘new’ players mesh together but with just one problem. Playing their best ball of the season New York has run into major injury troubles and are playing with the next man up to fill the void of those not able to play. The trouble for them is that they have lost major contributors whose production can not be matched. The Pacers are looking to rebound themselves off a home loss to Golden State in one of their worse performances of the year. Take INDIANA!   

Denver at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Nuggets- The defending NBA Champs are starting to put things together winning their last three and five of their last six. Sacramento returns home off a pair of losses including one at Detroit last time out. In the only previous meeting between these two was played December 2nd in Sacramento and the Kings prevailed 123-117 as the Nuggets played without Jamal Murray. The Kings need to get the taste of their poor performance against the Pistons out of their mouths and what better way than to take down the champs. Take SACRAMENTO!

Denver at L.A. Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Nuggets- Streaks both winning and losing are a huge part of the long NBA season and the Lakers have proved to be the team that appears to be streaking one way or another at all times. Los Angeles started the season 3-5 and then won six of seven and went on to win the silly NBA in-season tournament adding a meaningless trophy to their case. then the Lakers when out and won just three of their next 13 games ad are now buzzing along winning eight of their last 12. Denver has been prodding along and for a defending Champion has played rather well. I prefer to play the hot team...take LAKERS!

Utah at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Suns- Phoenix is starting to play on the court the way many expected them to play from the season’s beginning, but better later then never. The Suns have already posted three wins over Utah this year and this is the final regular season meeting between these two. The Jazz will need to burn the Suns with their powerful inside game with Lauri Markkanen controlling the boards and action around the hoop.

Take UTAH!

Minnesota at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Timberwolves over Bucks- If it ain’t broke don’t fix it...it seems that I have heard that time and again and it needs to be said time and again. Okay here is Milwaukee (two weeks ago) 34-12 and leading their division and feel the need to remove the newly hired first year coach who replaced a NBA champion coach in Milwaukee and since the hire of Dic Rivers they are 1-4. Not to say that it is Rivers influence but  a move like that shakes a team up and they really didn’t need it. Timberwolves have lost 2-of-3 and 3-of-6 as they blew another huge half-time lead, this time 22 points against Chicago. Rudy Gobert has stated the need to stay focused for the full game. Take MINNESOTA!

Golden State at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

76er’s (+) over Warriors-  Without a doubt Joel Embiid has established himself as the true MVP as it seems Philadelphia is hapless without him in the line-up. The news for the 76ers has Embiid sidelined at least six weeks and his mates will have to make some adjustments. Golden State is just a midland team this season with only Stephen Curry maintaining his level of play, but Green and Thompson are not longer the impact players that they once were. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Dallas at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Mavericks- Dallas is just another team that brings a superstar to Brooklyn that had previously played for the Nets. Kyrie Irving returns to New York a place he spent nearly four years but managed to play in less than half the games scheduled because of injuries and personal (mental) issues. The Mavericks have been in the tank since his arrival and he still only plays about 50% of the games. The trade brought a number of players to the Big Apple but altogether they can’t contribute what Irving an produce. Dallas has won seven of the past eight meetings with the last six encounters have been decided by five points or less. Brooklyn’s Ben Simmons (another head case) has played twice since his return and the Nets scored  147 and 136  in those two outings. He plays tonight...take BROOKLYN!

Golden State at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Warriors- Fading this Golden State team has been a priority this season as they are just a shell of their former selves. Yes, Stephen Curry is still as great ever as evidenced by his 60-point performance in the Warriors loss at Atlanta, but the drop off in performances by the rest of the squad is too much for one-man to overcome. The Warriors are fading before the All-star game losing 11 of their last 17 games. while Brooklyn one of the youngest teams in the league are maturing as the season wears on and have won three of four after a 2-12 slide. Warriors (-3.5) won the first meeting 120-116 but the Nets covered the previous four meetings. Take BROOKLYN!

LA Clippers at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Clippers- It’s called ‘mojo’ and Atlanta has found it for the first time this season and have won a season high four straight wins. The Hawks who have had the NBA’s worst ATS record this entire season especially at home where they were 3-18 ATS prior to their currently home stand are averaging 133.5 points during their win streak. Los Angeles has won eight of their last nine and and are 5-1 on their current road trip which ends here. After spending two weeks on the road the Clippers are longing to return home and stop living out of a suitcase. The Hawks are still flying high and their momentum will help carry them tonight. Take ATLANTA!

Sacramento at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Kings- The Kings have won five of six on their current seven game road trip have shot 51.3% on the road trip and are playing the Cavaliers for the second time this season winning the first meeting 130-120 at home. The Kings have won the past three meetings with four straight ATS wins in the series. Cleveland is on a winning streak of their own and has five straight victories and have done it with defense as they have held four of their last five opponents well under their season average. Take CLEVELAND!

Milwaukee at Utah 8:00 ET

Jazz over Bucks- Well, Doc Rivers has broken his cherry as Milwaukee posted their first win for their ‘new’ coach last time out defeating Dallas (Megabucks loss) 129-117 after trailing by 25 points in the third quarter. That lone win propelled Rivers into coaching in the All-star game as both the No. 1 (Boston) and No. 2 seeds (Bucks) coaches are ineligible. Utah collapsed late falling to Philadelphia on Thursday and vowed to stay focused for all four quarters. Take UTAH!

Milwaukee at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Bucks- If it ain't broke don’t fix it! I know that is simple to say after two straight losses by Milwaukee. You see they were cruising along at 32-14 with one of the best records in the NBA and it wasn’t good enough to retain rookie coach Adrian Griffin. This is a team that management expected to go undefeated after trading for Damian Lillard after all they fired Bud Budenholzer before the season, a man who led them to an NBA championship and was Coach of the Year in 2021 and was a Gregg Popovich disciple. No one can be absolutely sure what is going on with the Bucks, but we have seen just as much nonsense coming out of Dallas in recent seasons dealing with their personnel egos. But, all the Mavericks really need is just for Luca Doncic to be himself and Kyrie Irving come to play. Take DALLAS!

Golden State at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (-) over Warriors- Oh boy, a long range shooting competition may come to the for front before this one is over as Stephen Curry the greatest long range shooter I have ever seen and the new ‘Trae Young Gun’ takes aim. Golden State with or without Traymond Green on th floor are just another former champion that has seen better times. Curry is still great but the drop off with the rest of his teammates is too much for him to overcome by himself. Hawks have finally put thing together or so it seems but having won their last two as hosts they are now 6-18 ATS at home. The beat goes on...take ATLANTA!

Brooklyn at Philadelphia 6:00 ET

Nets (+) over 76ers- Ben Simmons returns...does he only the ‘Shadows Knows’ (sorry about that Lamont Cranston fans, the rest google it). Anyway, in this meeting the story line is of who is going to and not going to play. MVP Joel Embiid is out for Philadelphia but that only means Tyrese Maxey has more ball time to display his wears and boy has he taken advantage. Maxey, a first-time All-star poured in 51 points in the 76ers 127-124 win over Utah Thursday ending a 4-game losing streak. Aside from Embiid the Sixers have five other roster players hobbled one way or another. As far as Brooklyn is concerned they were short-handed in heir loss against the Suns with Ben Simmons resting after playing one game after returning from a three-year rest. In his debut he had 10 points, 11 assists, 2 steals, a blocked shot while going 5-5 from the field in just 18 minutes. Simmons plays the Nets win. Take BROOKLYN!

Phoenix at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Suns- Atlanta won their second straight game over the Lakers (megabucks winner) last time out while Phoenix has won nine of the last 11 games. The Hawks have the worse home record in the NBA and one in which  they have covered the number just five of 23 games with two of those wins coming of late. Atlanta swept both meetings last season and have won the last three and seven of the last 10 meetings. The Hawks are getting back to full strength as De’Andre Hunter returns and his defense is key. Take ATLANTA!

Indiana at New York 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Knicks- New York has won eight straight games and winning 14 games in January was their most wins in a month since 1994. But, as of yesterday two of the Knicks main cogs will be sidelined as both Julius Randle and OG Anunoby are nursing injuries. Indiana is one of the highest scoring teams in the league and have shown that they can play with the best of the NBA having defeated Milwaukee in back-to-back games. Pacers Tyrese Haliburton is back after missing 10 games and with New York pair of starters out take advantage. Take INDIANA!

Phoenix at Brooklyn 8:30 ET

Nets (+) over Suns- It was just over one year ago when the most fragile of ego’s Kevin Durant demanded a trade from the Nets as Brooklyn’s Big-3 experiment with James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Durant proved that the game is played with just one basketball. Phoenix after a slow start trying to mesh their new superstar with talented role players and the Suns have now won 13 of 18 after falling one-game below .500. Brooklyn had one of the most controversial player return to action Monday as Ben Simmons returned to play and is just 18 minutes had 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds and those are impressive stats in such limited play. Take BROOKLYN!

Dallas at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Mavericks- Surprisingly enough Minnesota has the best record in the West keeping a narrow lead over Oklahoma City and Denver with a victory Monday night over the Thunder. It was just one short year ago when these two clubs met in Minnesota the Mavericks were small favorites on the road with Dallas winning and covering. Well, look at the line today! T’wolves are huge double-digit favorites and there has got to be for the book-makers to put a line out like that. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Lakers at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Hawks (-) over Lakers- Atlanta is fourth in NBA scoring but last when it comes to point spread wins as they are 11-35 ATS on the year and 4-18 ATS at home. Los Angeles at .500 is the height of inconsistency as they just trod along. LeBron James has put end numbers that are close to his career averages if you consider the limited minutes that he plays per game.  This is the second of back-to-back games and James has yet to play in the second game this season. Take ATLANTA!

New Orleans at Boston 7:30 ET

Pelicans (+) over Celtics- Boston was 20-0 at home before their most recent encounters as hosts and now they have dropped two straight at the TD Garden and they are off their worse loss of the season to the LA Clippers.New Orleans is coming off one of their worst performances of the year at one time trailing Milwaukee by 34 points at one time. Kristaps Porzingis averaging 19.5 points and 6.7 rebounds will sit with a turned ankle. Take NEW ORLEANS!

New York at Charlotte 7:70 ET

Hornets (+) over Knicks- This is a really tough call as the Knicks have been something special since making the trade for Anunoby and have currently won six straight. Charlotte has taken a step back this season (maybe two) and are a dreadful 5-16 SU at home and just 8-13 ATS and have covered only twice in their past 10 games. But, New York has lost their starting forward Julius Randle averaging 24 points and 9.2 rebounds who dislocated his shoulder against Miami on Saturday. Take CHARLOTTE!

LA Clippers at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Clippers- The hottest teams in the NBA clash today where the Cavaliers will hosts the LA Clippers who have won five in-a-row and 13 of their last 15 games. Cleveland who just defeated Milwaukee has won and of its past 10 games while the Clippers just handed Boston their worse loss of the season. LA has their big man Ivica Zubac out and may rest Paul George as well. The Cavaliers are 15-8 at home and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 outings. Take CLEVELAND!

Phoenix at Orlando 6:00 ET

Magic (+) over Suns- I think there is something going on with the Suns as they are hotter Pete Davidson’s girl friends (nothing is hotter than those that have chased him).

Phoenix lost 133-131 at Indiana on Friday ending their seven game win streak. These two met on New Year’s Eve with the Suns  (-6) winning 112-107. Orlando is in a swoon having lost their last two and seven of nine. The Magic may be without Jalen Suggs who was Banged up in their lost to Memphis on Friday. Tricksters are 14-7 SU ar home. Take ORLANDO!

Miami at New York 3:00 ET

Heat (+) over Knicks- Last’s season Eastern Conference Champions the Miami Heat are on a five-game losing streak and are currently out of a guaranteed playoff spot. Four of those losses came against against conference foes while New York is on a roll having won their last five and have moved into the fourth playoff spot which guarantees a home series in the playoffs. The Heat have yet to win (0-2) since acquiring guard Terry Rozier from Charlotte and coming to Madison Square Garden will have them focused against the Knicks a team that they love to get up for. Take MIAMI!

Cleveland at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Bucks- How about that! Milwaukee has once of the highest winning percentages (70%) of all NBA teams and yet they fired their coach and have hired Doc Rivers at lead the charge. Why the change? A question that the media has not truly addressed is why coach Adrian Griffin was let go. Most likely it is another Magic Johnson and Paul Westhead situation where the star player is not happy with what is going on. This is the second of back-to-back games with the Bucks winning 126-112 in Rivers first outing on Wednesday. Cavaliers had an eight game win streak end with that loss and tonight they get their revenge. Take CLEVELAND!

Minnesota at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Timberwolves- There is something about this Minnesota team that I can’t quite put my finger on as fall as why they continually fail in key situations. On Monday Karl-Anthony Towns scored a franchise record 62 points for the Timberwolves on Monday in a loss to Charlotte blowing an 18-point lead. The Nets are 4-16 SU in their last 20 and just 2-11 with both wins back-to-back over Detroit. Brooklyn despite their poor SU record (10-11 SU at home) they are 12-7-2 ATS at home. This is the first first meeting of the season between these two with the Nets winning four of the past six. Take BROOKLYN!

Boston at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Celtics- A rematch of last year’s Eastern Conference Finals has the Conference Champion Miami on a four-game slide after falling to lowly Memphis last night. The Heat added Terry Rozier who averaged 23.2 points for Charlotte before being picked up by the Heat who surrendered Kyle Lowery who was scoring just 8.2 PPG. and he should help the Heat as he becomes part of their team chemistry. Take MIAMI!

Philadelphia at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over 76ers- For all of those that disputed Joel Embiid receiving the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player Award what are they to do this season when their vote comes up this season because he has undoubtedly been even better this season. Not only did Embiid score 70 points on Monday against the Spurs but he pulled down  18 rebounds as Philadelphia won their sixth straight game as he raised his NBA leading scoring average to 36.1 points per game. Although the Pacers will be without their leading scorer Tyree Haliburton ( 23.6 PPG) they have enough fire-power to overcome his absence. These two have split a pair of early season meeting in Philadelphia with the Pacers winning the last meeting 132-126. More of that here. Take INDIANA

Phoenix at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Suns- It looks like Phoenix has finally put it together winning six straight and 11 of their last 14 games after sinking below .500 with a loss to Dallas on Christmas Day. The Suns are embarking on a seven game road trip their longest of the season. The Mavericks are off their loss to Boston on Monday and willhave a healthy (at least physically) Kyrie Irving and Doncic had 50 points against the Suns last month. Take DALLAS!

New York at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Knicks- New York has a new look as trades have changed the dynamics of a clubs that has improved defensively with the addition of OG Anunoby. The Knicks have won the past three meetings by a total of 61 points and Brooklyn is off a loss to the LA Clippers after leading 16-0 and leading by 18 points in the third quarter getting outscored 41-14 in the fourth quarter allowing the Clips to score the games final 22 points while losing their 15th game in their last 19. Still, I am looking for the Nets to return home and give a full game effort against their inter-city rival. Take  BROOKLYN!  

Cleveland at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Cavaliers- Cleveland has won six straight and it has been their stellar defense that is turning their offense on leading to season high winning streak. In each of their last three wins they held their opponents under 100 points and won by 18 points or more. Orlando who ha lost five of six before their Megabucks win over Miami yesterday allowing Miami a season low 87 points. These two have split their two meetings with Banchero leading the ways with a 42-point performance. Take ORLANDO!

Miami at Orlando 6:00 ET

Magic over Heat- These two Florida clubs have dropped their last two games with Orlando losing five of their last six games. Miami will be at full strength as Tyler Herro, Jimmy Butler and Ben Adebayo are finally playing together as a unit as injuries have prevented them from meshing as a cohesive unit. The Heat have won both meeting between these clubs this season and it is time for the Magic to pull off tricks and win her. Take ORLANDO!

Oklahoma City at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Timberwolves- Both of these clubs have shown that they are playoff worthy and have stars that can take over a game at any time. Minnesota has won their last four games and are off an easy 118-103 romp over Memphis while OKC has been as consistent as ever winning five of seven and 10-of-14. Anthony Edwards leads the T’wolves scoring 26.1 PPG and the Thunder are led by Gilgeous-Alexander who’s all around game has OKC ranked second in points at 122.2 PPG. The Timberwolves are first in scoring defense allowing 107.4 PPG and are 17-2 SU at home but are only favored by one bucket and that seems shallow to me. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Philadelphia at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over 76ers- The numbers are piling up again for Joel Embiid. Last year he was out to win the MVP award and he heard talk of how others may have deserved it in his place and he is out to prove once again that he in the NBA’s most dominate player. His stats are even more impressive this season than last and the 76ers are not nearly as affective when he is sidelined. The Magic have lost four of five and enter a three-game home stand hosting Philadelphia who defeated Orlando 112-92 three weeks ago without Embiid. This time with Joel in the line-up the Magic pull of a winning trick behind Paolo Banchero who has helped turned the franchise around. Take ORLANDO!

Indiana at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Pacers- Sacramento returns home losing their final three game on their five-game road trip losing to Milwaukee by 1-point and Phoenix by 2-points. This is Indiana’s fourth straight road game and they have dropped their last two at Utah and Denver and will once gain be without Tyrese Haliburton. Still, without their star the Pacers lead the NBA in scoring averaging 125.2 points per game but are at 29th on the defensive end allowing 123.4 PPG. The price is high but for good reason as the Pacers are becoming road weary and the Kings need a win. Take SACRAMENTO!

Oklahoma City at Utah 9:00 ET

thunders (+) over Jazz- Utah had all momentum they need entering yesterday’s shootout with Golden State and then were shocked at the death of the Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojevic and the cancellation of their game. The Jazz have won six straight and 12 of 14 and will be hosting one of the improved teams in all of sports Oklahoma City who despite a pair of losses in Los Angeles are still 11-8 on the road and have already defeated Utah 134-120 and will do it again here. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Houston at New York 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Knicks- Both of these squads have taken huge strides this season with New York changing its chemistry and Houston developing its young talent. Jalen Brunson came over to the Knicks last season is proving to be a future Super-star and with the addition of Anonubi with the departure of the poor shooting JA Barnett the Knicks have become formidable. Houston is off a terrible performance against the 76ers and have been pointing to this game in New York for a while now. Take HOUSTON!

Miami at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Heat- The Raptors just finished their six game road trip with four straight losses and will glan to be back in the Great White North to host the sun baked Heat. Playing in Miami is wonderful during the winter but traveling is a bitch to start with and then having to land in Toronto can be hostile. The Heat have had their top three players Butler, Herro and Adebayo available for just nine of their 40 games and chemistry is something that has to be developed. Take TORONTO!

Oklahoma City at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers over Thunder- Oklahoma City has now won four straight and nine of 11 while the Lakers continue to struggle as they are 5-12 since winning the silly NBA in-season Tournament. Los Angeles is off a road loss a Utah. But, LA has been shorthanded and will have two fresh legs for this encounter and of course Davis and Lebron. Take the LAKERS!

Chicago at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Cavaliers- Fist it was the in-season NBA Tournament and in their expanding effort to showcase the league around the globe the Cavaliers are off a win over Brooklyn in a game played in Paris (Paris, France not Texas in case you were wondering). Played on Thursday Cleveland may still feel the affects of the time difference and adjustment can be more difficult than one might realize. The Cavs have won four straight and are 15-3 SU against teams with losing records and have defeated Chicago five straight times going 4-0-1 ATS. The Bulls have picked up the pace in the New Year and have won four-of-five. Take CHICAGO!

Houston at Philadelphia 1:00 ET

Rockets (+) over 76ers- Philadelphia is just 3-7 without Joel Embiid but they won an impressive victory over Sacramento w/o Embiid 112-93 on Friday. Houston was just blown out at Boston as the Celtics rebounded from a beat down at the hands of Milwaukee on Saturday 145-113. The Rockets who won just 22 games last season are 19-19 and have dropped three of four and they are 0-4 ATS on their current road trip...today they ply close. Take HOUSTON!

Indiana at Denver 12:30 ET

Nuggets (-) over Pacers- Indiana is red hot having won three straight and nine-of-10 and of late have done it without spectacular Tyrese Haliburton who has a pulled hamstring. In his absence the leagues highest scoring team placed eight different players in scoring last time out in their 126-108 win over Atlanta their third win over them this season. Bruce Brown returns to Denver where he was a big part of the Nuggets championship team last season and he may be able to help with prep notes but when face-to-face with Nikola Jokic no much is going to help. Denver has had some stinkers of late but have still managed to win 10 of their last 13 with Jokic going 73-of -92 (79.3%) from the floor while averaging 10 assists. The Nuggets have won the last six meetings and are 16-4 SU at home and with the line this high against a team as hot as the Pacers I expect a blowout win. Take DENVER!

Houston at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Rockets- Boston went to Milwaukee Thursday and in the middle of the first half they decided to take to rest of the night off...and that is exactly what they did. Getting annihilated by the Bucks as they scored 25 straight points the Celtics sat anybody that has had any kind playing time down for the rest of the game. They will be ready to play tonight after their worst showing in ages. The Celtics are 18-0 at home and Houston who is greatly improved is just 4-14 on the the road. Take BOSTON!

Toronto at Utah 9:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Jazz- A team that was considered an also-ran at the start of the season and lost 16 of their first 23 games Utah has now won 9-of-11 and have won their last three defeating Philadelphia, Denver and Milwaukee defeating three of the NBA’s strongest contenders. The Jazz have had their way against Toronto of late winning the last three meetings and six of seven. Although the Raptors are just 6-14 SU on the road they are 11-9 ATS and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall. Utah not used to the favorites role fall short. Take TORONTO!

Indiana at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (-) over Pacers- Points should not be a problem here as the No. 1 and No. 3 scoring team face off for the third time this season. Indiana leads the NBA in scoring averaging 126.5 PPG and the Hawks are third averaging 122.7 PPG. They have met twice with the Pacers scoring 157 and 150 points winning both contests and have scored over 130 points 15 ties this season. But, they will be without their leading scorer and All-star Tyrese Haliburton who will be out two weeks with a hamstring pull. Hawks starting to get it together after a horrid ATS start at home going 3-12 ATS. Take ATLANTA!

Boston at Milwaukee 7:30 ET

Bucks (-) over Celtics- Boston is off a tough overtime win over Minnesota where the trailed by nine points late in the fourth before tying and winning with an OT cover. Milwaukee has hit a lull losing four-of-five (All-star break will give them rest) but for now they return home after a loss to Utah. These two met in Boston in November by three points after building a 21-point lead. Damian Lillard has been out but returns tonight to aid in the Bucks victory. Take MILWAUKEE!

Hawks over 76ers- The 76ers are just not the same without MVP Joel Embiid as they continue to struggle when he is not in the lineup. Philadelphia has lost three of four and actually have five guys that are hurting enough to be out of the lineup one day or another. Atlanta has been the worst point spread team that I can ever remember as they have lost six of eight SU and have won just five home games all season and are just 2-12 ATS as hosts and have covered just eight of 35 games played this season. These ATS numbers are disgraceful and the Hawks with fly tonight against a weakened foe. Take ATLANTA!

Toronto at LA Lakers 10:30 ET
Lakers (-) over Raptors- It takes a meeting against their inner city rival the LA Clippers to get the Lakers going as they ended a four-game losing streak with a win on Sunday. Although the Lakers are 3-10 SU since winning the NBA’s in-season tournament and they are 13-6 SU at home while Toronto is just 6-12 SU on the road. The Raptors picked up RJ Barrett from the Knicks and he responded with a career high 37 points against the Warriors Sunday, but he will return to form as an consistent offensive shooter. Take LA LAKERS!

Houston at Miami 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Heat- It was been two weeks since the Heat played at home on Christmas Day when they downed the Embiid-less 76ers. Winning at home is a must in the NBA as getting road wins are so difficult as the Heat and Houston can attest. Miami has a winning home record of 9-6 but are not so hot as home favorites going 5-10 ATS something the Rockets can make note of as they are  1-10 SU but a 7-6 ATS on the road. Once again the crew from South Beach has a number of key personnel sidelined because of nagging injuries including Jimmy Butler. The Rockets are off their Megabucks win Saturday night 122-118 over Milwaukee and this is the first of a six-game road trip. The young club from our space center are eager to prove they can win on the road. Take HOUSTON!

Milwaukee at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Bucks- Despite having won 25 of 35 games a 71% winning pace many say Milwaukee has been inconsistent. Tonight they will play their third game in four nights and it is most likely that their 15-19-1 ATS is why people think that they are underachievers. Houston whose 17-16 record has people speaking their praises because of the difference in expectations between the two clubs as the Rockets are 14-6 (70%) SU and ATS at home. There are just two NBA that keep opponents scoring under 110 PPG and Houston is one of them while the Bucks allow 119.4 PPG ranking No. 24 in the league. This will be the Rockets seventh straight home game and they are off a 27-point home loss to Minnesota. Look for them to atone for their paltry effort last time out. Take HOUSTON!

Orlando at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Magic- Denver is coming off a come-back win over Golden State last night as they rallied from 18 points down with 6:51 left to play to a non-cover  (-4) win 130-127. Orlando has made great strides this season and had a nine game winning streak before their most recent slide as they have dropped 10 of their last 15 games overall. Although Denver is 14-3 SU at home they have a target on their backs as defending NBA champs and are just 16-20 ATS on the year. Two-time MVP  Nikola Jokic has gone an unbelievable 39-for-44 from the field in the last four games and Jamal Murray has returned to the line-up full time. Take DENVER!

Oklahoma City at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Thunder- After defeating the Celtics to extend their winning streak to five games Oklahoma City was beaten by Atlanta the following night. The Thunder have lost two games in-a-row only twice this season and are 12-4 since their last two-game losing streak. Brooklyn have dropped their last five games the last four of which were on the road the second time that they have lost five-straight this season. After getting find $100,00 by the league for violating the NBA’s Player Participation Policy the Nets will be playing at full strength. Take BROOKLYN!

Atlanta at Indiana 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Pacers- The high flying Hawks have started to put it together winning their last two contests scoring 130 and 141 against Washington and Oklahoma City. Indiana has won five straight since Christmas without a loss including the last two victories over Milwaukee a club that had defeated only once in 15 meetings prior to the seasons start. The Pacers who lead the NBA in scoring are led by Tyrese Haliburton who had a triple-double last time out without a turnover. Indiana leads the NBA in scoring but Atlanta is a close third and are playing their best basketball of the season right now. The Hawks were 6-25 ATS overall before their last two wins. Take ATLANTA!

Denver at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Nuggets- It sorta like the sophomore jinx in baseball which basically says for first time winners (a rookie in baseball) the second time around is a bit more difficult. Denver won their first NBA championship last yer and are feeling the affects of their champagne hangover. Golden State is nothing close to what they were in recent championship years but, hey still have the greatest shooter in NBA history in Stephen Curry as well a possible runner-up in Klay Thompson (must admit he has not returned to form since his major injury). The point is the Nuggets are just 10-8 SU on the road and 7-11 ATS. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Orlando at Sacramento 10:30 ET

Magic (+) over Kings- Gotta love the match-up of a pair of NBA teams that have emerged as a threat to win a playoff series against any possible opponent. Orlando is a stellar 22-11 ATS this season including 10-7 ATS on the road a place few prevail. Sacramento has improved in each of the past three season’s and have swept (2-0) the series the last two seasons. But, Orlando, has grown quickly since the arrival of Paolo Branchero who has pushed the Magic into a contender. Take ORLANDO!

Oklahoma City at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Thunder- We missed out on the Celtics and Thunder winner last night as Oklahoma City won their fifth straight game 127-123 over Boston the team with the best record in the NBA. But, I shall atone for it today with the winner here. Atlanta broke a streak of their own of four losses in-a-row Sunday by defeating lowly Washington 130-126. These two met in early November with the Thunder (+1.5) prevailing 126-117 (it was no surprise then as we did post the winner in that meeting) and this is the final meeting of the season. Last year they split the series and I see the same thing happening here. The Hawks have been putrid both SU and ATS especially at home where they are 1-12 ATS. But, they will play 13 of the next 18 at home and are looking to make up ground starting tonight. Thunder are playing back-to-back and the Hawks are flying high with confidence off the Sunday victory. The line seems a bit short and OKC looks like an easy play. Therefore...take ATLANTA!

Milwaukee at Indiana 7:10 ET

Pacers (+) over Bucks- When push comes to shove Milwaukee very well may have the biggest upside of all NBA contenders. Their firepower has them scoring 124.6 PPG second in the ‘Association.’ The number 1 scoring team happens to be hosting tonight match-up as the Pacers drop on 126.4 PPG. There will be no shortage of star power as the Bucks tout Antetokounmpo and Indiana sends out the fastest rising start in the NBA Tyrese Haliburton who is a triple-double machine. Look for a high scoring game with the home Pacers with the final edge. Take INDIANA!

Brooklyn at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Nets (+) over Pelicans- There two things that should happen at games end tonight is that Brooklyn will end a season long three game losing streak and the Pelicans will have their two-game win streak end. No question New Orleans has a big 3 in their line up with Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum who can carry a team as they have the past two games each scoring at least 20 points in wins over the Lakers and Jazz. The Nets who are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games are 8-1 SU and ATS in the last nine meetings and rebound here. Take BROOKLYN!

Dallas at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Mavericks- The last time these two cagers met the Mavericks handed Utah a 50-point loss (147-97) the second worse loss in Jazz history and goes back to when they played in New Orleans where it made more sense to called them the Jazz. In the last meeting Utah was shorthanded and Luca Doncic dropped in 40 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in just three quarters but since that defeat they have won seven of 10 and are healthy. Healthy or not Dallas most likely be without the services of Kyrie (Flat world) Irving who is resting and a regular basis. Take UTAH!

Orlando at Phoenix 8:00 ET

Magic (+) over Suns- Phoenix who procured Kevin Durant before the close of the 2023-23 season and then proceeded to acquire Bradley Beal to go along with Devin Booker, Eric Gordon and Grayson Allen have only had three games with the Big-3 in the line-up. Friday the Suns won for the first time with their trio of super starts in the lineup defeating lowly Charlotte 133-119 as 15.5 point favorites. We always hear stories of how teams with new players especially high profile stars take time to mesh and learn each other idiosyncrasies. So, now after one game together and have a good shooting night against a very weak club I am to believe that the Suns rises in the west...not so fast my friend. Phoenix had lost nine of 12 before their consecutive wins and they are .5-12 ATS at home. I really don’t have much to say about the Magic other than they are much better than most people realize as their No. 1 draft pick from a year ago Paolo Branchero all-around play is infectious. Take ORLANDO!

Brooklyn at Oklahoma City 7:05 ET

Nets (+) over Thunder- The Thunder continue to win and are on a three game streak right now and have won six-of-seven which brings them to a 70% winning percentage at 21-9 SU. OKC showed improvement he latter half of last season and the addition of 2nd year rookie (may not make sense but it is true) Chet Holmgren has make major contribution that Wembanyama can not match. Brooklyn reminds me of what the Thunder were last season they are young and hungry and give a full 48 minute effort. OKC is third in scoring while the Nets are strong off the boards ranking third. This one stays close. Take BROOKLYN!

Miami at Utah 5:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Heat- This looks to me like a mirror image of the Thursday’s game with the Heat being a small underdog to the Warriors and now it has folded over with them as a small favorite at Utah. The Jazz just finished a five-game road trip and won the middle three games before falling at New Orleans Thursday night. The Jazz should be a full strength health wise for the first time this season while Miami continues to play hurt and continues to win. Utah has been under-maned most of the season and yet have managed to post a winning record at home going 8-5 SU and more importantly 9-3 ATS. The Heat have won the last five meetings, but the Jazz got the money the last meeting and will get it done here. Take UTAH!

Oklahoma City at Denver 9:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Nuggets- My goodness this is a short price to lay with the defending NBA Champions at home. Denver has not been all that bad at home going 13-2 SU although just 8-7 ATS with one of their two outright losses coming at the hands of the Thunder. Oklahoma City has the youngest team in the league and don’t know that they are supposed to be intimated by the defending champs...they are not! The Thunder have won their last two and seven of their last nine and will get it done again tonight. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Philadelphia at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over 76ers- Philadelphia is just not anything close to the same team when playing without the NBA’s MVP Joel Embiid who is the league leading scorer. The 76ers were 0-4 SU without their big man until a 20-point win at Orlando and winning on the road which has been a weak spot for them in recent seasons. Houston is one of the youngest teams (and developing fast) in the NBA and excel at home where they are 12-4 SU and 11-4-1 ATS. Embiid is still out. Take HOUSTON!

Sacramento at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+)over Kings- Atlanta may be the biggest underachiever in the NBA this season as they ave one of the worst home records in the league. The Hawks are a meager 4-8 SU at home but are an horrid 1-11 ATS as hosts despite having one of the top guards Trae young who averages 28.1 points and 11.3 assists. Sacramento can match the Hawk front court play as De’ Aaron Fox averages 30.2 and 6,1 assists. The Kings have won six of 10 while the black birds have lost three straight and won just three of their last 12 games. They are ranked No 3 on offense with 122.3 PPG while the Kings are NO. 22 on defense allowing 118 PPG. Take ATLANTA!

Miami at Golden State 10:00 ET

Heat (+) over Warriors- Even through their slow start had Miami had struggling but they have managed to win nine of 15 road games. Only three other teams in the NBA have won more on the road while Golden State who also is off to a weak start to the season has reeled off eight straight home wins. The Warriors may have won at home but they are a disappointing 6-9 ATS as hosts. The Heat still doesn’t know if Jimmy Butler will be able to play as he has missed the last three games and yet the line on this match-up is very low. It leads me to believe the Warriors will struggle again. Take MIAMI!

New York at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Thunder- OKC has three of the NBA’s youngest stars as their wait to next year mantra has turned into winning now. At 19-9 the Thunder have to be taken seriously being led by All-star Gilgeous Alexander, second year rookie Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. New York is led by Jalen Brunson and although they have lost their center Mitchell and still are second in the NBA in rebounding while Oklahoma City is second to last. Knicks over win over Milwaukee adding the confidence needed to beat the league’s elite. Take NEW YORK!

Milwaukee at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Bucks- When reviewing the Bucks play to date my thoughts run to this club scoring points and not playing the tough defense needed to win during the playoffs. Milwaukee is second in the NBA in points scored with 124.5 per game but allow 119.1 and have surrendered 120 points or more 15 times this season as their interior presence has been soft allowing 53 points per game in the paint. They have gone ‘over’ the total in 20 of their 30 games. Brooklyn who is 11-4-1 ATS at home have dropped nine of 11 SU against the Bucks but have gone 3-1 ATS in the last four meetings and 5-of-6 have gone under. The Nets had dropped five straight until their two wins against Detroit and are 1-6 ATS in their last seven. They are a young club that will surprise the league in their play before the season’s end and they are eager to measure up against the Bucks. Take BROOKLYN!

Memphis at New Orleans 8:10 ET

Pelicans (+) over Grizzlies- Ja is back! Ja Morant who was suspended the first 25 games of the regular season has return with a splash as Memphis who was 6-19 in his absence have now won three straight upon his return. (After three games he might have already established he is the league’s MVP) The Grizzlies started their win streak at New Orleans a week ago when the Pelicans blew a 24-point lead having a fourth quarter collapse. The Crescent City will host this meeting once again with the line dropping from a minus-8.5 and now have a price of minus-4.5 a number they will cover handing the Grizzlies their first loss since Morant’s return. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Indiana at Houston 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Rockets- Indiana was the NBA’s highest scoring team as of two weeks ago but have hit a snag losing their last two and six of seven as they meet Houston for the first time this season. The Pacers made a run during the NBA in-season tournament and are seeking to regain their intensity after a disappoint loss to the Lakers in the final. The Rockets are an outstanding 12-2 SU and 11-2-1 ATS at home but have lost seven straight to the Pacers going 2-7 ATS. They have rebounded nicely with a pair of wins after having dropped three straight but just seem to struggle against this Hoosier state club. Take INDIANA!

Atlanta at Chicago 8:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Bulls- Atlanta’s Trae Young is on a record setting streak scoring 30 points or more with at least 10 assists in seven straight games although the Hawks were only 3-4 losing their last two. Chicago is 2-1 on their current five game home stand and this without All-star Zach Levine who remains sidelined with a foot injury. The high flying Hawks average 122.7 PPG which is No. 2 in NBA scoring while the Bulls offense struggles at 110 PPG ranking 27th. Take ATLANTA!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!