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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

Atlanta at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Pelicans- Atlanta started the season with a pair of losses but have responded by winning their last three games averaging 128 points over that 3-game span. This line seems very short to me as New Orleans incoming off a pair of wins and it should not be because of players getting ’rest’ as Zion Williamson sat out the Pelicans last game. The Hawks are flying high an get the win here. Take ATLANTA!

Dallas at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Mavericks- There is just one undefeated NBA team remaining and the Dallas Mavericks will bring their perfect 4-0 record into they defending NBA Champion Denver Nuggets den. The Nuggets were handed their first loss of the season at Minnesota (Megabucks winner) Wednesday night and look to rebound with a win over these impostors. The Mavs’ Luke Doncic is still as unbelievable as ever and Kyrie Irving seems to be happy not be playing having missed the last two games. This game is part of some silly in-season tournament the NBA has come up with and we can’t be sure yet the players care or are even aware. But, maybe that will give the Nuggets even more incentive. Regardless, they should be ready tonight and dispose these pretenders. Take DENVER!

New York at Milwaukee 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Bucks- Both of thee playoff clubs are off to slow starts as New York has dropped 3-of-5 while the Bucks have split four games. Milwaukee opened the season with new comer Damian Lillard leading the way while the Knicks have struggled because for the most part Julius Randle is have troubles making shots all kinds of shots including free throws and layups. The Bucks swept the series 3-0 last season and have won six straight the past two seasons. But, Milwaukee is still having adjustment issues with a new superstar joining their ranks. Take NEW YORK!

Denver at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets- Denver has won its first four games by an average score of 116-102. The Nuggets have shown no signs of a hangover on the heels of a remarkable championship season. Minnesota is off to a much bumpier start as it prepares to face Nokic and the Nuggets. The Timberwolves have dropped two of their first three games, including a 127-113 loss against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday as Atlanta erased a 19-point halftime deficit. Anthony Edwards leads the Timberwolves with 25.3 points per game to go along with 7.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists. Karl-Anthony Towns (15.7 points, 10.0 rebounds) and Rudy Gobert (14.3 points, 13.3 rebounds) each are averaging double-doubles. Take MINNESOTA!

Portland at Detroit 7:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Pistons- After three losses, Portland collected its first win of the season on Monday, 99-91 at Toronto. The Trail Blazers' big men sparked the win. Forward and former Piston Jerami Grant had a team-high 22 points, and center Deandre Ayton grabbed a career-best 23 rebounds and added 10 points. For Ayton, the victory was his first in a Blazers uniform. He was traded by Phoenix in late September. Ayton will have an intriguing matchup on Wednesday against Detroit's second-year center, Jalen Duren, who is averaging 15.5 points, 13.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.0 blocks a game. The Trail Blazers, who will wrap up a three-game trip vs. the Pistons, won both matchups with Detroit last season. Take PORTLAND

Milwaukee at Toronto 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Bucks- The Toronto Raptors will face a former assistant coach Wednesday night when they try to end a three-game losing streak in their meeting with the visiting Milwaukee Bucks. New Bucks coach Adrian Griffin was an assistant to Nick Nurse with Toronto for five years through the end of last season. Nurse is the new coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who posted a 114-107 win over the Raptors on Saturday night in Toronto. The Raptors have not won under new coach Darko Rajakovic since taking their season opener last Wednesday. The Bucks will be playing their first road game after winning two of three at home to start their season. They win tonight. Take TORONTO!

Chicago at Indiana 7:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Pacers- Indiana is off to a great start to the season as they have six players with point scoring averages in double-digits. The Pacers average a league high 134 points after three games while Chicago is 0-3 ATS and dropped all three meetings last season. While the Pacers scoring is spread the Bulls rely on three stars in Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic. LaVine had 51 points in the loss to Detroit Saturday and DeRozan led them to their only win a non-cover over one-point win over Toronto. Take CHICAGO!

New York at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks over Knicks- Both of these clubs missed the mark in their respective openers as New York went 1-for-9 down the stretch and 0-for-3 from the foul line in their loss to Boston. Atlanta had the same shooting woes making just 17.2 percent from 3-point range ( their lowest 3-point shooting % since facing the Knicks last December. But unlike New York the Hawks shot poorly for three quarters and then put it together in the final 12 minutes but fell short against the Hornets. The mindset for this encounter has the Knicks brooding while the Hawks are soaring off their fourth quarter effort in their loss to the Hornets.

LA Lakers at Denver 7:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Nuggets- Last season I never thought the Lakers had a shot against Denver and the Nuggets playoff sweep proved me right. This time around there have been changes for both clubs and the Lakers talent level is still about the same but Denver may be another matter. The Nuggets will still have the same starting five take the floor but all of what was their support system has been altered. Bruce Brown and Jeff Green are gone, Christian Braun hasn’t had playing time in preseason and neither has Michael Porter Jr. Last season was a first time ever for Denver to eliminate the Lakers from the playoffs and as LeBron James and his supporting cast meaning Anthony Davis were not pleased by the way the Nuggets acted after their win. At 39 years of age he said that he will be motivated against the two-time MVP Jokic as he watches the reigning winners raise their NBA banner and receive their Championship rings. Take LA LAKERS!

Miami at Denver 8:30 ET

Heat (+) over Nuggets- It is Do or Die for the Heat with their 3-point shots as that is they only way they can stay alive against the Nuggets in Denver . The points are generous and well they should as them Mile High Guys look and play much better even at sea level (which after forty years is still not rising...Al Gore). From what i have seen I can not see the Heat winning this game but at the same time I believe that their intensity will be at the max. The South Beach boys have responded throughout most when little was expected of them and that is what I am expecting here. Although the 9-points or so is temping to take on a team that will be making their last salvo if eliminated. Take MIAMI!

Denver at Miami 8:30 ET

Heat (+) over Nuggets- The problem for Miami is that when they get beat they look so bad. When watching them go down you begin to wonder how they got to where they are right now. But, the thing is to remember is that no team is as bad as they look and that they are still professionals and respond in kind.I expect a maximum effort from the Heat tonight and for this game to stay within the margin one way or another. Take MIAMI!

Denver at Miami 8:30 ET

Heat (+) over Nuggets- It was in 1966 the the Monkeys, the British rock group led by teen idol Davy Jones sang their hit song ‘I’m a believer’ and it has taken me up until now to become a true believer in the Heat. To start with it seems that Miami really does not began to play until they are facing at least a 15-point deficit and more then likely in the second half. When Pat Riley stepped down many said he choose Eric Spoelstra to coach because he would make Riley look better as a head coach and now it is being said that he is the best coach in the NBA. Maybe he is, but that hasn’t stopped the public from playing Denver like no one else is playing in the game. Take MIAMI!

Miami at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Heat- In all three of their previous playoff series No. 8 seed Miami was able to get a jump on the No. 1 Bucks, No. 5 Knicks and No. 2 Celtics in the opening game of the series and that put tremendous pressure on the home clubs. They felt ambushed in a way and that is not something Denver has to worry about. After crushing Phoenix in their final two games of the series the Nuggets swept the Lakers and won their seventh straight over the Heat in Game One. I am sure to hear how Miami will make adjustments and the Game-1 loser is covering with the zigzag concept is they play...well not so fast. Let us take a closer look at this Heat club. To start with they are just 3-9 ATS following a loss by 10 points or more. And I have more, Miami is 9-26 ATS in the lat 35 overall meetings and 0-4 ATS at Mile High. Finally, they are 4-14 ATS in their last 17 with 2 days rest while the Nuggets are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games on two days rest and we will rest with the Nuggets are 8-3 last 11 at home. Plus they really are a lot better and hungry. Nuggets can shoot the ball and the other side not so much, as they already shot their load in the last three anomalies. Take DENVER!

Miami at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Heat- Being in the Mile High City should cool off this Miami team who have been blazing hit in every big game situation in the entire playoffs. Denver who has been sitting around for what seems like an eternity is the polar opposite of the Heat and will force the tempo into a pace Miami will try and avoid. The key for the Nuggets is to hit their usual shots and do not allow the Heat pressure to affect them.  Straight up, I think Nikola Jokic is just too big and powerful for the Heat defense. Miami has been through a grinding run and are just 4-12 ATS in their last 16 games with just two days rest and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six meetings in Denver and 9-25 ATS in the last 34 meetings overall. Take DENVER!

Miami at Boston 8:30 ET

Celtics (+) over Heat- Okay, here comes the rub, I totally expect Boston to win this game as I posted them at 7/1 to win the series after falling behind 0-3. We had the Game 6 Megabucks winner Boston 104-103 on the ‘Money Line’ -140 and as I expected it came down to the final buzzer and we were lucky enough to win outright while avoiding the non-cover favorite point spread loss. The position that I personally am in with the series bet +700 I should without a doubt take the points and cover my original action and have a 7.5-point middle or even take the Heat on the money line...but I just do not believe Miami is the winner. Now, while the betting public is taking them at a 3-to-1 clip I find it difficult to even play my middle. Instead I am going to let it ride (love that movie) because it has not happened in 150 other tries and because the money has been wrong every game this series. Aside from the final four minutes Jimmy Butler looked either hurt of too tired to carry this team any longer. Celtics are 9-3 ATS after an ATS loss. I never thought that I would have the favorite here, and I though that the Heat would come to play and make it a battle to the final whistle. But, now, with all the pressure on Miami we will see why they were seeded EIGHTH! Take BOSTON!  

Miami at Boston 8:30 ET

Celtics (-) over Heat- All’s I can say is, if Boston wins here ...watch out! AM I thinking of the 2004 Red Sox who were down 3-0 to the Yankees and had just lost at home 19-3 and no one gave them a chance...they won and yes I have thoughts of that and they are not pleasant (Yankees fan). Knowing that 0-3 teams in NBA playoff series are 0-150 and after posting a Highest-Rated Megabucks winner with the Celtics I am coning right back with my strongest side of the season. The number is huge and Miami is catching most of the money and from what we have seen rightly so. But, other than the Game 4 line adjustment the odds maker makes the Celtics the same as Game 1. If the Celts have as much confidence in themselves as the odds makers..they win. Take BOSTON!

Boston at Miami 8:30 ET

Celtics (+) over Heat- I know what I said about Miami having more ‘Mojo’ than Austin Powers and they went out and absolutely destroyed the Celtics in a Game 3 romp that put them ahead 3-0 in the series. So, at this point everyone is in shock and Boston doesn’t have a clue how to change things the media is killing their rookie coach and looking to dissect the club. At 0-3 no team in NBA history has ever come back (0-150) to win the series and I would image the Celtics down to a man are bewildered and embarrassed. That second thing going a long way among professionals and Boston is that. This time around the Heat are favored and maybe that might too much for them to carry. I always take points but this is do or die for the Celtics and winning the game is all that counts for them here on out. Oh...I can not believe it...take CELTIC PRIDE! 

Denver at LA Lakers 8:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Nuggets- Unlike Boston the LA Lakers did not quit in their Game 3 loss to Denver the issue with team is that they just were not and are not good enough. Yes, Denver is just better and has more depth along with better shooters. In Game e the Lakers actually had a 12-point lead at one point and a one-point lead with seven minutes to go before the Nuggets closed them out. No NBA team has ever comeback from a 3-0 deficit to win the series but to gain a win here is not out of the question. Take LA LAKERS!

Boston at Miami 8:30 ET

Heat (+) over Celtics- The hits just keep comes if you dare to pay against the Heat team as their ‘Mojo’ is stronger than Austin Powers. Now, they are at home and are underdogs again to a team that just does not seem to be in sync. as a matter of fact Boston looks like all the other playoff teams that had to plat Miami. The Heat had to beat the Bulls after losing a play-in game to Atlanta and then the let Milwaukee win one game and the Knicks a pair and now Boston who may not win one game. But, Karma, is hard to overcome and if the Celtics pull it off here... Take MIAMI!

Miami at Boston 8;30 ET

Celtics (-) over Heat- The moment Game 1 ended I said aloud to anyone that would listen that I will not play against this team (Miami) again as they just have the right kind of mojo that teams ride out to championships. I was a serious as I could be...then I started to recall some history. I know that it was not Indians or the Guardians for that matter that threw the tea overboard as it was the Knicks that defeated the Heat in Game 2 after a home loss in Game 1. And it was Boston with a win over Philadelphia after a Game 1 home loss. As a matter of fact the Game 1 home loser is 20-1 ATS or something very similar to Game 2. Honest, the number is ridiculous and it is like 6-0 this season post season alone. Hate it but must lay-it. Take BOSTON!

LA Lakers at Denver 8:30 ET

Nuggets (-) over Lakers- The Lakers shot 67% in the second half come back in Game One and stole the money in a game that they were never in until Jokic stopped playing after the third quarter. So, that left many with the impression that the Lakers are ready for Game Two and the Zig-zag people will come wit the Game One outright loser and I don’t see it that way. To me, LA was the winner as they got the money and tonight they fall short. The Lakers are 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 trips to the Mile High City and the Nuggets are 7-2 ATS in their last nine games as hosts overall. Take DENVER!

Miami at Boston 8:30 ET

Celtics (-) over Heat- Boston who once again is a heavy favorite for the series and of course Game 1 and once again we have eighth-seeded Miami the working man’s underdog survivor surprising everyone. The Celtics do not want to start this series as they did the last because a loss off the top to this clubs will only give them more confidence and put added pressure on them selves. Jimmy Butler has been a force to contend with and Bam Adebayo is no slough. but, the Celtics focus will run as deep as their talent. These two split four games this season each winning a pair on their home floor. The Celts are 10-4 ATS in last 14 home games and 11-3 ATS in their last 14 games against teams with winning records. Take BOSTON!

LA Lakers at Denver 8:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Nuggets- I find it so difficult to play against Denver as they are that good and so under-rated. Last year Jamal Murray was out and the Nuggets fell short.This year with a healthy Murray they look like the team to beat. LA well, what is there to say other than that if AD and LeBron can work together as they have, their inside game is tough to to beat.Think of all the Finals experience James has and then realize Denver has never been to the NBA Finals. The Nuggets have had their way against LA as hosts going 5-1-1 ATS in the last seven. But, this one will be close at the final buzzer. Take the LA LAKERS!

Philadelphia at Boston 3:30 ET

Celtics (- ) over 76ers- All year long I insisted that Joel Embiid deserved the MVP and was glad to see him win it but at the same time I was saying that I thought the Celtics were the beat team I saw this season. So, you see where I’m coming from...the 76ers have a history of not winning when put in this position and James Harden, well when does he show up. The thing here is that both The Beard and Joel can have great nights and they can still get beat. The skeptics will once again be after Doc Rivers throat because the Celtics are 10-3 ATS against teams with winning records and 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings with the Sixers. Take BOSTON!

New York at Miami 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Heat- New York once again is facing elimination and and staved it off last time out as Jalen Brunson scored 38 points while RJ Barrett continues is hot playoff shooting scoring a high of 26points in Game five. Miami has played over their heads for the entire playoffs as Jimmy Butler is establishing his star status but he was held to a playoff low of 19 points last time out. The Knicks are 38-18-1 ATS on the road and 15-6-1 ATS after a straight-up win while the Heat have the series edge at home going 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Still, with what is a stake here keeps this one close. Take NEW YORK!

Boston at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- Most of what I have been hearing is that Doc Rivers will be fired after the Celtics eliminate the 76ers from the playoffs. Well, I guess that has been put on hold for now as Philadelphia has shocked most that pay attention by taking the last two games from Boston since falling behind 2-1 in games. The force that Boston hs not be able to handle is MVP Joel Embiid who just does not want to return to Bean Town for a game 7. Joel too much for visitors. Take PHILADELPHIA !

L.A. Lakers at Golden State 10:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Warriors- Things just do not look right for the defending champion Warriors as they now trail the Lakers 3-1 in the best of seven. Golden State has won 19 consecutive series against Western Competition since 2015 and have trailed 3-1 twice in that span. LA has the size and inside game to rattle Golden State especially if the Warriors are struggling from the outside. LA is 7-1 ATS in their last eight Conference Semifinal games and are 6-1vATS in the last seven meetings. Take the LAKERS!.

Miami at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Heat- Right now the No. 8 seed in their eastern conference is ready to reach to NBA East finals with one more win in their next possible three games with New York. The Knicks have had one of the better seasons’ in what seems like decades but have fallen 3-of-4 to the more physical Heat. Miami’s defensive pressure has had the Knicks committed 52 turnovers in the series 13 more than the Heat. But, it is their rebounding that the Knicks have to improve on as Miami has controlled the boards. Take NEW YORK!

Phoenix at Denver 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Nuggets- Five days ago we were hearing how Denver was ready to sweep the series or at least end it early after Chris Paul was sidelined with a groin injury. As those of you that have been a part of our saga that I am not a big Paul fan and believe that the Suns are better off than on when it comes to this perennial playoff loser. We all pretty much accept that role players are better at home than n the road during the playoffs and the Suns bench outscored the Nuggets bench 40-11. That is a lot to overcome just thinking home floor difference. Now, it is Denver that feels the pressure and they have not been here in a long time. Take PHOENIX!

Philadelphia at Boston 7:30 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- I can not help myself, I know who the better team is and that individuals do not defeat teams but their is something about Joel Embiid and his desire to win, Yes, he wanted the MLP but he is a all around team player that wants to win first. After four game James Harden has been an aging washed up bum twice and an NBA superstar in the two other. As Lamont Cranston would say ‘Who knows which Harden will appear...’ (Even this is before my time). My bet is that the more confident and assertive James Harden show up as Embiid encourages a Harden that he believes is the key to victory. TAKE PHILADELPHIA!

Golden State at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers (-) over Warriors- Ya know, I love Steph Curry and believe that he is the greatest pure shooter that every played the game, but winning talks a certain balance and Golden State doesn’t have it. Be it the difference between their road record and home record is too great for a championship team. They were able to take the Kings down with their guile and experience but that is nit going to work here. If LeBron and A.D. can get any help from their role players they will be tough to beat. Lakers length and game in the paint has been too strong for the warriors to handle and I can see how that is going to change. Get used to it...LeBron is the key with his all around game. Tale LA LAKERS!

New York at Miami 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Heat- All the glitz and glamours that comes with winning in New York dies very fast when you play like the Knicks did in Game 3. Miami is having their best run of the season in the playoffs and are doing it without Tyler Herro their leading scorer and at times without Jimmy Butler and others and like a hot playoff goalie they just keep wining.The Knicks seem to be breaking down physically as Immanuel Quickey comes up a question and joins Josh Hart and a gimpy Julius Randle. But, the Knicks run deep and Tom Tribodeau will make adjustments if only they execute. Take NEW YORK

Denver at Phoenix 8:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Suns- I was wondering if I believed that Kevin Durant and Devin Booker would once again score a combined 86 points (the same amount the entire Knicks scored in the game against the Heat yesterday) then you should back Phoenix. If you have any doubts and I have mine, then the choice should be easy. But, the result may not always be. Even in their Game 3 loss the Nuggets were still more impressive to me. Take DENVER!

Boston at Philadelphia 3:30 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- James harden had fooled most of us with is 45-point Game 1 performance having many believing is past playoff failures were behind him. Not, so fast, even with Joel Embiid getting the MLP and very little pressure being on Harden he still failed once again to deliver. He was just 5-of-28 shooting the past tow games and I just can not believe that will continue. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Golden State at L.A. Lakers 8:30 ET

Lakers over Warriors- This is the match-up we wanted to see and at 1-1 this series will most likely go the full seven games. Golden State who got crushed in the paint in Game 1 make the adjustments needed to rout the Lakers in Game 2. This time around both clubs have made their changes and this should play close down to the final buzzer. It may be time to remember that the Warriors are just 17-36-1 ATS in their last 56 road games and the Lakers are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games Take LA LAKERS~

Miami at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Heat- The Heat are red-hot and Jimmy Butler is on fire. He is scoring at a rate that he has never displayed before. New York had an early double digit early lead and lead by five points at the half and that is all is wrote for the Knicks. New York was without Julius Randle but it was butler that was the difference in Game One as he has been throughout the playoffs. Although Miami won the last meeting they were 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings and they are just 10-28-1 ATS after a SU win. Take NEW YORK!

Denver at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (-) over Nuggets- Oh, I have got to love it! Phoenix is down 2-0 in games and have not looked like they belonged on the same court as Denver. The Suns were rolling along in those oh so unimportant games after they acquired Kevin Durant and now that they are facing stiff playoff competition they are struggling. Even the club’s weakest link and constant thorn to winning in the playoffs is injured has been sidelined. But, often less is more and the Suns may be better of with Chris Paul out of the lineup. At home they realize that this game has to be won. Take PHOENIX!

Boston at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- Joel Embiid was back as we hoped in Game 2 and although he had five blocked shots he was more of a liability because of his lack of lateral movement. Philadelphia was crushed with a third quarter Celtics attack that put the game away to even the series. I do believe that Boston is the best team left in the east and so do the odds makers as they are favored on the road against the No. 3 seed. The Sixers are 31-12 SU and 26-12 ATS at home and the points here are a bonus as they are 6-2 ATS after a SU loss. Take PHILADELPHIA!  

LA Lakers at Golden State 9:00 ET

Warriors (-) over Lakers- I really did not expect too out of Step Curry and the Warriors after he scored 50 points in their Game 7 win over Sacramento. One thing that I did expect was for the champs to feel liberated as the Game 7 pressure was gone. The Lakers and Anthony Davis dominated the paint in Game One with 30 points and 23 rebounds and LA dominated at the free throw line making 29 to the Golden State had six. After those kind of numbers adjustments will be make by both the Warriors and the officials. Warriors are 5-1 ATS after a SU loss and 40-19-1 ATS in their last 60 home games . Take GOLDEN STATE!

Philadelphia at Boston 8:00 ET

Celtics (-) over 76ers- Boston was beaten as a double-digit favorite in Game 1 of this series and they did it without Joel Embiid stepping on the court. They were able to win because James Harden picked up the slack matching his career playoff high by scoring 45 points. Boston dominated the inside game with Embiid missing and had a  66-42 advantage in points in the paint. I would actually feel better if Joel played but either way the Celtics should prevail here. 76ers are 1-5 ATS in the last six meetings. Take BOSTON!

Miami at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Heat- The Heat are red-hot and Jimmy Butler is on fire. He is scoring at a rate that he has never displayed before. New York had an early double digit early lead and lead by five points at the half and that is all is wrote for the Knicks. New York was without Julius Randle but it was butler that was the difference in Game One as he has been throughout the playoffs. Although Miami won the last meeting they were 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings and they are just 10-28-1 ATS after a SU win. Take NEW YORK!

Philadelphia at Boston 7:30 ET

Celtics (-) over 76ers- Of course the question here is can Philadelphia play well enough to win or even cover without Joel Embiid in the lineup. Coach Doc Rivers has said that he mostly will miss at least Game 1 of this series. Boston is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings including last time out when the 76ers won but did not cover as Embiid posted 52 points. if Joel can have an unbelievable night and still not get the money I can not see how they can stay with Boston without him. Sixers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 trips to Beantown and Celts are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games. Take BOSTON!

Golden State at Sacramento 3:30 ET

Warriors over Kings- This one is simple...are you willing to play against Steph Curry is a game of this significance and I am not! Golden State slept-walked though their last encounter not playing with the urgency that the Kings put out. Are the Warriors good enough to turn it on against a team that has outplayed them all season. It was thought that the defending champs would only have to win once on the road to win this series but now it must happen twice in-a-row. The Warriors are 5-1 ATS after a loss of 10 points and the Kings are 2-5 ATS in their last seven home games. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Miami at New York 1:00 ET

Knicks (-) over Heat- Miami dominated the Milwaukee Bucks without leading scorer Tyler Herro and is just the sixth No. 8 seed to advance into the second round, one other team to do it was the Knicks in 1999. Jimmy Butler has gone nuts offensively to pick up the slack left while Herro is out and shot 45% from 3-point range against the Bucks after being ranked 27th during the regular season. Look for New York coach Tom Thibodeau to tie up Butler run the Heat down. Take NEW YORK!

Phoenix at Denver 8:30 ET

Suns (+) over Nuggets- We all have seen what the addition of Kevin Durant has meant to the Suns as they have become virtually unbeatable and are the favorites to win this series. Denver the No. 1 overall seed is 37-7 SU at home and a handsome 28-16 ATS while Phoenix is 19-24 SU on the road. The teams split four games with season with the Nuggets getting the money the last three meetings. Suns are 5-1 ATS in their last six games in Denver and get the money here. Take PHOENIX!

Sacramento at Golden State 8:00 ET

Warriors (-) over Kings- The defending NBA Champion Warriors are seed sixth but are ready to close out Sacramento and reclaim it’s northern California dominance. Golden State won only 11 games on the road this regular season but have come up with the one road win they need to win this series. I expect the Warriors to hold serve and end this series tonight. The Warriors are 40-17-1 ATS in their last 58 home games. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Miami at Milwaukee 9:30 ET

Bucks (-) over Heat- Milwaukee is one game away from elimination trailing 3-1 in games to Miami and yet they are still favored in Las Vegas to win this series. That speaks volumes as Giannis has not be at full strength. Only 13 teams in NBA history have recovered from a 3-1 hole and the odds are the Bucks will be number 14. The Heat have scored more points in this four-game series than any span of four games this entire season and it is not even close. Bucks clamp down...Take MILWAUKEE!

LA Clippers at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (-) over Clippers- I’d like to be able to say that like most other teams who enters a game without their top player that they rally and come up with superior efforts. But, even the best of efforts does not make up for the absence of Kawaii Leonard. Phoenix seems to have made the adjustment of adding Kevin Durant to the lineup and they are now the favorites in the West. Russell Westbrook has filled in quite well for the Clippers but for the most part his contribution become meaningless with a bulk of turnovers that e commits. Take PHOENIX!