Atlanta at Boston 6:00 ET

Hawks (+) Celtics- The Hawks were trailing the Celtics by 17 at the end of the first quarter Friday and battled back before losing down the stretch. Boston's All-Star Isaiah Thomas scored a career high 42 points in the win but it was not without controversy as Thomas hit Atlanta point guard Dennis Schroder in the face but will not be suspended. The Celtics will still be without their leading scorer in Avery Bradley and that will continue to hurt Boston. Take ATLANTA!

Golden State at Houston 3:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors- The Rockets pull off a 97-96 win over Golden State in Game 3 but it was not without controversy as James Harden scored the winning bucket with 2.7 second remaining. The NBA brass has stated that the officials made five errors in the final two minutes that help Houston's cause. With Stephen Curry returning from a two-game rest because of an ankle turn will cause the 'number' to be inflated here. In a surprise I expect the Rockets to show up once again. Take HOUSTON!   

L.A. Clippers at Portland 10:30 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Clippers- The Clippers roll into Portland with a 2-0 series lead and have won the first two by an average of 20.5 points. The Trailblazers who have surprised the experts by just making the playoffs are 0-5 ATS in their last five overall and are hungry for a win. Los Angeles used their bench for a total of 43 points in Game 2 but are just 2-8 ATS in their last 10 when playing on two days rest. The home floor will present a huge advantage for the Blazers as they pull this one out. Take PORTLAND!  

Miami at Charlotte 5:30 ET

Hornets over Heat- To say the Heat have been dominate the first two games would be an understatement as they breezed through their two home games. Miami is shooting 58% through the first two games and that number will come down in a dramatic fashion this afternoon in Charlotte. Granted the Hornets will be without starting guard Nicolas Batum with a foot injury and he will miss the rest of the series. Look for the Hornets to rebound here and post the outright win. Take CHARLOTTE!

Toronto at Indiana 3:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Raptors- Toronto's All-Star back court when to work in Game 3 after poor performances in Game 1 as Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan each scored 21 points and led the Raptors to an easy victory. The Pacers who stole Game 1 will be led by Paul George who had 25 points, 10 rebounds and six assists but suffered a poor shooting night but is still averaging 28.7 points in the three playoff games played. This time the Pacers get the gold...take INDIANA!    

San Antonio at Memphis 9:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Spurs- The Spurs posted two huge wins (average 29 point wins) and lead the series 2-0 against the beat-up Grizzlies who just don't have the man-power to win this series. The San Antonio's defense set the tone early in both contests allowing just 13 points in the first quarter in Game 1 and only 11 in Game 2. Zach Randolph has just 17 points n the first two games and Matt Barnes just 11. Look for a super effort at home by the Grizzlies and they get the 'money.' Take MEMPHIS!  

Atlanta at Boston 8:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Hawks- Last time out in Game 2 the Celtics set a NBA Playoff record by scoring just seven points in the first quarter (trailed 24-3) and fought for the remaining three quarters to make it close as they eventually lost 102-101 and fell behind 2-0 in the series. Boston has to deal with the injury to Avery Bradley (leading scorer) and now Kelly Olynyk who is questionable and Marcus Smart suffered a bruised rib in Game 2. Atlanta record 15 blocks shots in Game 2 but will find the environment a bit more hostile. Take BOSTON!

Cleveland at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Cavaliers- The Cavaliers made 20 3-pointers in their Game 2 rout of the Pistons in Detroit 107-90. Detroit let a lead slip away in the fourth quarter of Game 1 and will come out in a physical fashion. Cleveland who is favored of course to get to the Finals is just 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a straight-up win by more then 10 points and the Pistons are 4-1 ATS in their last five after a loss of 10 points or more. This time take DETROIT!  

Golden State at Houston 9:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors- By all reports on Stephen Curry is that there is nothing serious and his status is a game-time decision. With Golden State up 2-0 in this series they may take the cautious rout and keep him sided line until they are threatened. Houston came to life so to speak as they 'covered' the original number but were caught by the closing bell. There is no getting around the fact that the Warriors are 13-1 against the Rockets since the beginning of last season including the playoffs but they need not 'cover' here. Take HOUSTON!     

Toronto at Indiana 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Raptors- Suddenly after a season of guard dominated play the Raptors are finding their major production in the opening round of the NBA playoffs from their center Jonas Valanciunas. With a pair of All-Star guard Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozen have been struggling. Most of that I believe is because of the superior play of the Pacers Paul George who is averaging 30.5 points in the split series. With their Game 2 win Toronto ended a seven-game playoff losing streak only to start a new one tonight. Take INDIANA!   

Oklahoma City at Dallas 7:00 ET

Thunder (-) over Mavericks- The question for me surrounding this game is 'What kind of integrity do the Oklahoma City Thunder have as professionals.' If they have any at all after their showy pre-game dance and late fourth quarter collapse. The numbers are no good when looking at the Mavericks as they are 0-5 ATS in their last five home games against a team with a winning road record. To make matters worse is that the Thunder are 14-6-1 ATS in their last 21 trips to Dallas. But none of that matters tonight. Take DALLAS!  

Portland at L.A. Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers (-) over Trailblazers- The Clippers surprise a few with they way they handled the Trailblazers as they won by 20 in an easy 115-95 victory. If center DeAndre Jordan continues to dominate the boards Portland will have little chance. This is a reason Jordan stayed here and now he's out to make good like his Game 1 performance with 18 points, 12 rebounds and four blocked shots. The Trailblazers are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall while the Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last four home games. Take LOS ANGELES!

Detroit at Cleveland 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Pistons- The Pistons let a golden opportunity slip through their bubbling hands in the final minutes of Game 1 as they failed to execute and Cleveland stole a victory. Detroit fought like crazy and had a great season to make the playoffs but this loss will be just too much for them to overcome. Although they are now 4-1 ATS against the Cavaliers this season the jig is up. Too much Cavs firepower. Take CLEVELAND!

Charlotte at Miami 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Hornets- Now, don't go jumping to any conclusions that I and coming back with the Hornets because of the 'zig-zag' theory. I am not, I don't pay too much attention to that because it really doesn't work. But, in this case Charlotte is a 'Monster Winner' that I expect to win outright. (Please take the points) The Heat won Game 1 by 32 points and the Hornets are just too good to let that pass. Miami scored a franchise playoff record 123 points as Goran Dragic was the only starter not to score in double figures. It will be different tonight. Take CHARLOTTE!

Memphis at San Antonio 9:30 ET

Spurs (-) over Grizzlies- I all my years for charting the NBA I never seen anything close to a favorite this high in the playoffs. (and the Spurs are not even the highest seed) San Antonio who is now 41-1 straight-up at home are banged-up and that has a lot to do with the 'number.' In the other two blowouts in Game 1's, the big loser came back with a win (Dallas) or cover (Houston) in Game 2. Well, I just don't thing that's going to happen tonight. Memphis has lost seven straigh road games and 11 of their last 12. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Boston at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Hawks (-) over Celtics- The Boston Celtics lost more then just a basketball game on Saturday as they will be without guard Avery Bradley their leading scorer because of a 'significant' hamstring injury suffered with 6:48 remaining and the Celtics holding an 83-80 lead. This after trailing by 19-points is especially difficult to over-come. In an oddity Boston is 1-7 ATS in their last eight games playing on two days rest. This time the Hawks hold on to their lead. Take ATLANTA!

Houston at Golden State 10:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors- With or without Curry the Warriors are a machine that attacks the basket and the boards every time down the court. They also play defense something that James Harden refuses to acknowledge. Rockets coach J.B Bickerstaff said changes are coming in Game 2 and they need to happen soon. Golden State is 1-5 ATS in their last six home games following a win by more then 10 points. Take HOUSTON!

Dallas at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Thunder (-) over Mavericks- As I was watching the Game 1 rout by the Thunder I made a mental note that I would come back with Dallas in Game 2. Well, guess what? I don't think so. Oklahoma City is 5-0 against the Mavericks this season and they are just too fast too quick for the aging Mavs who should be put out to pasture or sent to the glue factory. Dallas just doesn't have it. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at Toronto 7:00 ET

Raptors (-) over Pacers- The Toronto Raptors haven't won a playoff series since 2001 and loss the opening series game for the eighth straight time on Saturday. The Pacers Paul George was too much for the Raptors to handle in Game 1 as they sputtered turning the ball over 20 times and shooting 38%. Toronto has now lost their playoff opener three straight years at home and still have the confidence needed to overcome Indiana here. Take the RAPTORS!

Portland at L.A. Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers (-) over Trailblazers- If there is an 'over-achiever' in the NBA playoffs it is the Portland Trailblazers who were not even expected to make the payoffs after the way their roster was depleted in the off-season and ended up with the fifth seed. The Clippers seeded fourth will have Blake Griffin at full strength after the power forward missed over three months due to an injury and suspension. The Blazers took the first meeting this season but Los Angeles won the next three. They also had a franchise best limiting opponents to 43.3% shooting. Defense wins playoff games. Take LOS ANGELES!

Charlotte at Miami 5:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Heat- Although they ended the season with the same record (48-34) Miami received the No. 3 seed and the home court while Charlotte is the No. 6 seed due to the NBA tie-breaker system. The Heat who blew a 24-point halftime lead against Miami on the season's final day and will be without Chris Bosh the entire playoffs. The Hornets won 18 of their last 24 to pull into the four-way tie. Miami is back in the payoffs after missing last season without LeBron James. The Hornets are just the hotter team entering the playoffs. Take CHARLOTTE!  

Detroit at Cleveland 3:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Pistons- I really can't remember the last time an NBA coach was fired and they team ended the season with the top seed in the conference for the Playoffs. Cleveland fired coach David Blatt after 41 games with the Cavaliers having a 30-11 record and have been 27-14 since. Detroit who is one of the most improved teams in the NBA defeated Cleveland three of four this season including a win on the final day of the season when the Cavs rested LeBron. Look for Cleveland to get out quick and win easily. Take CLEVELAND!  

Dallas at Oklahoma City 9:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Mavericks- Oklahoma City won over 67% of their games this season and that's saying something when you consider the Western Conference is loaded with the likes of Golden State and San Antonio. The Thunder won all four regular season meetings over Dallas averaging 112.5 points per contest and are well rested entering this fray. Too much fire-power coming out of OKC with Westbrook and Durant. Take the THUNDER!  

Boston at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Celtics (+) over Hawks- The much improved Eastern Conference ended the 2015-16 season with four teams with 48-34 record a tie for the No. 3 through 6 seeds. After the tie-breakers were applied Miami ended with the No. 3 seed and then Atlanta, Boston, and No. 6 seed Charlotte. Boston won the first meeting in Atlanta but dropped the next three by an average 13.7 points. The Hawks who had the No. 1 seed last season dropped their final two games and four of their last seven including a 118-107 home win over the Celtics. This time it plays close...take BOSTON!

Houston at Golden State 3:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors- Well, now that Kobe is gone all the light will shine on defending NBA Champion Golden State who set a new standard for most wins this season while the disappointing Rockets had to win their final three games to end at 41-41 and win the tie-breaker over Utah. The Warriors I might add are the only team in NBA history to go the entire season and not lose two straight. Houston has had a tumultuous year that saw coach Kevin McHale get fire in the third week of the season. The Rockets lost in the West Finals to Golden State last year and knows what it take to win here. Take HOUSTON!  

Memphis at L.A. Clippers 10:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Clippers- Memphis who has had a rash of injuries has dropped eight of their last nine and are now sixth NBA playoff seed in the West as the Clippers have won five straight and nine of their last 10. I watched the Grizzlies Saturday lose to Golden State blowing a nine-point lead in the final two minutes and still can't figure out how they lost. Despite of all the injuries Memphis continues to play hard and get the money. Take the GRIZLLIES!

Oklahoma City at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Spurs (-) over Thunder- The Spurs are sure closing the regular season with some big-time match-ups as Golden State just left town and Oklahoma City arrives. San Antonio lost on Sunday to the Warriors which ended their dreams of a perfect home season (39-0 entering that contest) and now the Thunder are here fresh off their cruising win over the hapless Lakers last night. The funny thing about this contest is the OKC will do most of the 'resting.' Take the SPURS!   

Miami at Detroit 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Pistons- Both these clubs are headed to the playoffs with Detroit most likely ending up with the eighth seed and a meeting with Cleveland as they are tied with Indiana who would have to lost to the Knicks to change things. Miami is back in the payoffs after a years hiatus and will once again have problem-child Hassan Whiteside back at center and Dwayne Wade healthy. The Pistons are in the playoff for the first time in six years and get the win here tonight. Take MIAMI!    

Sacramento at Phoenix 10:05 ET

Suns (-) over Kings- Okay here are the Phoenix Suns 36-games under .500 favored by a half-dozen points against a club with 10 more wins and I believe Vegas is trying to tell 'us' something. Sacramento who have won five of the last seven in this series will be without center DeMarcus Cousins who will be 'resting' his sore feet. Kings point guard Rajon Rondo will also most likely be out and with rookie guard sensation Devin Booker leading the way with double-digit scoring in 22 of the last 23 games the Suns rise in the west. Take PHOENIX!

Houston at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Rockets- I'm a bit sad as the season winds down as my opportunities like this to 'play' against the Rockets will soon be over. Houston is the biggest 'dog' in the NBA and by that I mean that they lay-down every change they get. After beating the Lakers by 20 points yesterday I expect the Rockets to completely take the day off. Minnesota is growing up fast and have won their last three and can put the Rockets out of their misery with a win here. Take the TIMBERWOLVES!

Washington at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Wizards- These two played last Wednesday in Washington as John Wall led the Wizards to a 121-103 win and the Wiz were eliminated form the playoffs on Friday. With nothing to play for Washington will sit-out John Wall this and their remaining contest Wednesday against Atlanta. Brooklyn has dropped eight straight games and were blown out Sunday 129-105 by Indiana. Washington has won seven of the last nine meetings but will be sleep walking tonight. Take the NETS!

Golden State at San Antonio 7:00 ET

Spurs (-) over Warriors- After all this, after we waited the entire season counting the games looking to see if Golden State would set the NBA win record...They may tie it but after tonight's loss that's the best that they can do. Gregg Popovich has said he will not rest anyone for this contest and it looks of late that the grind of the season has started to take its toll on the Warriors. Their is one factor to enlist here and that is Golden State has lost 33 straight games in San Antonio and haven't won their since February 1997. Take the SPURS!  

Orlando at Miami 6:00 ET

Heat (-) over Magic- In a back-to-back series the Heat are looking to recover from their 112-109 loss to the Heat in Orlando on Friday. Miami is 27-13 at home and need to win out to get a home court during the first round of the playoffs. The Magic have won five of their last seven but they are going nowhere but home when the season ends Wednesday. Miami is 5th in NBA scoring defense and with Whiteside guarding the bucket they have Wade to score. Take MIAMI!  

Utah at Denver 5:05 ET

Jazz (-) over Nuggets- The Utah Jazz are one-game in front of Houston for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference while the Nuggets are getting ready to play golf. This is Denver's final home game of the season as they close the year out in Portland on Wednesday. Denver is off a huge win over San Antonio and they were favored to win and did, this afternoon they are a underdog to a weaker Jazz team and that just doesn't make any sense. I believe the Nuggets have packed it in and Utah win easily. Take the JAZZ!  

Cleveland at Chicago 8:35 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Bulls- The Cavaliers have clinch the No. 1 spot in the East and are off a123-109 loss at Indiana where LeBron James took the night off and rested. This is Cleveland's final home game and they are aware that they can virtually knock Chicago out of the playoff picture with a win here tonight. The Bulls have dropped seven of their last 10 and are 3-games behind Indiana with three to go. Tonight is the end of the line for Chicago. Take CLEVELAND.

Boston at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (-) over Celtics- These two are in a virtual tie for the third spot with overall 47-32 records with the Celtics having won the last four and Hawks their last two. They are one-game ahead of both the Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets who Boston plays next to end the season. This is why is game doesn't have a much importance to Atlanta. The Hawks have won 14 of their last 18 games overall and nine of 11 at home. Take ATLANTA!

Phoenix at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Suns over Pelicans- These last couple of week in NBA action have created a number of 'strange' looking lines with so many team resting starters and others just laying down getting ready to play golf. A prime example if the lowly Phoenix Suns winners of just 21 of 79 games favored on the road against a 30 win team. New Orleans has been a major disappointment due to injuries and a coaching change they make in the off-season. The Pelicans are 2-1 against the Suns this season and have won for of the past six meetings and yet are an underdog at home here. Take PHOENIX!  

San Antonio at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets over Spurs- 'Hokie Smoke Bullwinkle' do you believe this 'line? Well, we are all aware of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich is known to rest his players in meaningless games and with the Warriors locking up the No. 1 spot and San Antonio 'locked' into the No. 2 spot this game fits the bill. Here now, are the Spurs who have won their last five visits to Denver and are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 trips and now an underdog. Take DENVER!

L.A. Lakers at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Pelicans- These Los Angeles Lakers have set a franchise record with 62 losses this season breaking the dubious team record set last season. With just four game remaining in his career Kobe Bryant is back if the line-up and had 17 points last time out in the loss to the Clippers on Wednesday. New Orleans is so banged-up they currently have just nine healthy players who gave it their all in Boston Wednesday but don't have enough here. The Lakers have won the last two meetings and this makes three. Take LOS ANGELES!

New York at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (+) over Knicks- Two of the NBA's bottom feeders clash as the New York Knicks come to Philadelphia to play the 76ers who for the third straight season will have the worst record in the league. New York will be resting their prized rookie in Kristaps Porzingis and Carmelo Anthony appears to be done for the season. The 76ers are off a win over New Orleans and look to make it a rare two-game streak here. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Toronto at Atlanta 8:00 ET

Hawks (-) over Raptors- Toronto has locked-in the No. 2 seed in the East as they invade Atlanta to play the Hawks who they have swept all three meetings this season and seven of the last eight meetings. With their playoff position locked-in I expect Toronto to sleep-walk through their finally games making sure to stay healthy for their playoff run. The Hawks have played four straight ATS losses but will be ready tonight as they are under pressure to maintain the No. 3 seed. Take ATLANTA!

Houston at Dallas 9:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Rockets- This encounter may go a long way to deciding who get into the NBA Playoffs and who doesn't as there is one-game that separates these two for the final playoff spot. Houston sits one game behind Dallas with five games to go. A win here by the Mavericks will just about guarantee them a spot. The Rockets have won the last two meetings and it's the Mavericks turn tonight. Take DALLAS!

New Orleans at Boston 7:30 ET

Celtics (-) over Pelicans- It's been a long tough year for New Orleans who after making the playoffs on the final day of the season last year have been plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. The Pelicans who are just 9-30 on the road are just 2-12 on the road against the East and are 0-5 ATS in their last five meetings with the Celtics. Boston who has been off since Sunday are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 home games and get the nod tonight. Take BOSTON!   

Detroit at Orlando 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Magic- The Magic has have four of their last five including three straight over playoff bound clubs averaging 118.6 in those five games. The Pistons who are fight for a playoff spot have dropped three of their last five at Miami last night but still have a two-game lead over Chicago for the final playoff spot in the East. Detroit needs a win here and has won the last five meetings including two wins this season by an average 21 points. Take the PISTONS!

San Antonio at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Spurs- The Utah Jazz are fighting for a playoff spot and to their chagrin they have to face san Antonio tonight a team they have struggle with this season (Who hasn't). The Spurs have defeated Utah three times this year by an average of 26.7 points. Now, we find the line very small as Utah has won 10 of their last 13 while San Antonio has won 11 of their past 13 as they are trying different rotations for the playoffs. The Jazz despite their bad losses to the Spurs is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings in Utah. Take the JAZZ!

Charlotte at Toronto 7:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Raptors- both these clubs have secured playoff spots with Toronto most likely the No. 2 seed while Charlotte is trying to improve their position. The Hornets dropped into fifth place with their last against Cleveland Sunday although they have won 14 of their last 18. The Raptors on the other hand have dropped four of their last seven and are 1-5 ATS in their last six home games. Charlotte is now only 20-6 ATS in their last 26 meetings but they are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 meetings in Toronto. Take the HORNETS!  

New Orleans at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (-) over Pelicans- I guess it had to happen sooner or later and with the lack of talent spread so thin and injuries coming into play the 76ers are actually favored in a game. The team with the 'guaranteed' worst record in NBA once again is favored. New Orleans who is without Anthony Davis has won their last two their longest win streak in six weeks. Philadelphia has had injury issues of their own as Nerlans Noel has missed the last six contests and forward Richaun Holmes the last four. Look for the 76ers to pull out a rare victory here. Take the 76ERS!   

Washington at L.A. Clippers 3:30 ET

Wizards (+) over Clippers- The Clippers know exactly where they will be positioned for the NBA Playoffs as they have the fourth spot in the Western Conference and coach Doc Rivers is so confident that he rested Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan and J.J. Redick while waiting for the return of Blake Griffin who was serving the final game of his four-game suspension. The Clippers won their only meeting this season n Washington 108-91 and now it's the Wizards turn. Take WASHINGTON!

Dallas at Minnesota 3:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Mavericks- The Dallas Mavericks have moved into the top-8 winning their last three and moving ahead of the Houston Rockets for the final playoff spot in the West. Minnesota has had two straight awful home outing losing to the Clippers and Jazz and are 0-4 ATS in their last four contests. Dallas has taken six straight in the series but will be without guard Deron Williams once again who has missed the last five games. This time it's...MINNESOTA!  

Oklahoma City at Houston 3:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Thunder- The Rockets who fired coach Kevin McHale seven games into the season are still with interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff and have yet to develop and consistency. Houston who made it to the conference finals last year are in the three team battle for the final two playoff spots and are currently 2-games under .500. The Thunder are secure in their No. 3 playoff spot and have won nine of their last 10 games but get caught here. Take HOUSTON!

Sacramento at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Kings- Without center De Marucs Cousins in the line-up the Kings become peons and just have a habit of laying-down as they are 2-11 with their imposing corner stone. Sacramento has posted two wins over Denver this season with Cousins averaging 38 points and 14.5 rebounds in the meetings and his production will be missed. The Nuggets have enjoyed playing Saturdays going 5-0 ATS the past five chances. Take DENVER!   

Toronto at San Antonio 8:30 ET

Spurs (-) over Raptors- Well, San Antonio is now the only team in theNBA that is undefeated (38-0) at home as Golden State lost as hosts to the Celtics last night. Now, the Spurs will try an establish as franchise record for wins as their current 63 victories overall matches the previous franchise mark set in 2005-06. Toronto who trails Cleveland by just two games is running out of time for the top seed as they are 0-4 ATS after a straight-up win. Take the SPURS!

Detroit at Chicago 8:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Bulls- The Bulls are just one-game behind the Pacers for the final playoff spot in the East after winning their last two games on the road over Indiana and Houston. Detroit although off a bad home loss to Dallas last night have won six of their last eight games. The Pistons are 1.5 games ahead of Chicago and have defeated the Bulls twice this season in overtime and are 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in Chicago. TAKE DETROIT!

Washington at Phoenix 10:30 ET

Suns (+) over Wizards- The Wizards who made it to the second round of the NBA playoffs last season find themselves on the outside looking in if the season ended today as they have lost their last two and four-of-five. Washington is 3½ games behind Indiana for the final spot in the East and are in Phoenix to play the sinking Suns who have lost their last four. The Wizards are 2-5 ATS in their last seven meetings in Phoenix while the Suns are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games following a straight-up loss. Take PHOENIX!  

Toronto at Memphis 8:00 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Raptors- The Memphis Grizzlies are holding on to the fifth playoff spot despite a four-game slide as the teams behind them aren't playing much better. Toronto posted their first 50-win season on Wednesday defeating Atlanta 105-97. With eight games remaining the Raptors trail Cleveland by two games for the top spot in the East. Even though Toronto is 3-1-1 ATS in their last five meetings the Grizzlies are 7-0 ATS in their last seven friday night games. Take MEMPHIS!

Dallas at Detroit 7:30 ET

Pistons (-) over Mavericks- These two clubs are fighting for a playoff spot in the West and appear heading in opposite directions. Detroit is off an 88-82 home win over the Thunder for their sixth victory in their last seven contests while Dallas has lost 10 of their last 14. The Pistons have seven games left and the next three are on the road so they need to take advantage of every home opportunity they have. Take DETRIOT!  

L.A. Clippers at Oklahoma City 9:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Clippers- Another contest with a ridiculous 'line' as the Thunder jump to a huge double-digit favorite over the Clippers who have won four straight including a 99-79 victory at Minnesota last night. Oklahoma City is off an embarrassing loss at Detroit and will be out full guns blazing tonight. Los Angeles expects to rest Chris Paul, J.J. Redick and center DeAndre Jordan. With so much fire-power sidelined the Clippers get routed. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Chicago at Houston 7:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Rockets- The Houston Rockets overcame a 19-point halftime deficit at Cleveland Tuesday to post a 106-100 over the LeBron James-less Cavaliers. Chicago is off a Tuesday 98-96 road win over Indiana snapping a four-game losing streak. Houston will play five of their final seven games at home while Chicago who is now because of the win over the Pacers are 3-13 straight-up on the road and 5-11 ATS. The inconsistent Rockets fall short again. Take CHICAGO!

L.A. Clippers at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) Clippers- This has been one of the most lopsided series in all of NBA rivalries as the Clippers have won 14 of the last 15 meetings including the last seven in Minnesota. Los Angeles who I believe to be the 'Big Imposters' have won their last three and should be looking to tank right about now. With the return of Blake Griffin just a day away the Clippers might get caught thinking 'what next' when he returns. The Timberwolves are young are beginning to mature quickly. The Wolves are 3-1-1 ATS the last five against L.A. and are the side tonight. Take MINNESOTA!   

Phoenix at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Suns (+) over Bucks- Both these clubs are playing out the string so to speak with the Bucks having lost their last five and Phoenix has dropped their last three contests. With their dreams of the playoffs fading fast Milwaukee has lost their last four at home ATS and the Suns are 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings in Milwaukee. The road team has won the last four meetings straight-up and I'll stick with that trend. Take PHOENIX!

Atlanta at Toronto 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Raptors- This game gets to me and I really like it. To start with don't you think this line is very inviting to lay with the home team? They are 10-games better on the season then Atlanta and are 6-1 ATS in their last seven meetings with the Hawks. Atlanta who had the best record in the East last season will most likely settle for the No. 3 seed and have now won four straight with double-revenge while the Raptors are off a home loss to Oklahoma City and have lost three of their last four. Take ATLANTA!

Houston at Cleveland 8:05 ET

Rockets (+) over Cavaliers- The Cavaliers are starting to have days where they have complete letdowns as the move toward the playoff as they are 0-5 ATS in their last five games following a straight-up win. Most likely the most inconsistent team in the league this season has been the Houston Rockets who are 10-games (32-42-2) under .500 against the points. The Cavaliers haven't been all that much better as they are 32-38-3 ATS for the year. Houston is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take the ROCKETS!

Oklahoma City at Detroit 7:30 ET

Pistons (+) over Thunder- Oklahoma City is coming off two huge wins, one over San Antonio Saturday night at home and last night 119-100 over the Raptors in Toronto. The Thunder own a win over the Pistons by 16 (103-87) back in November but Detroit is a much different team now. But, they are off a 112-95 home thrashing handed to them by Atlanta Sunday. OKC comes in off a big win and the Pistons a bad home loss. Both will move toward the middle here and they are as the Thunder are 2-5 TAS in their last seven in Detroit. Pistons pull this one off. Take DETROIT!

Brooklyn at Orlando 7:00 ET

Nets (+) over Magic- With their two-game winning streak stopped in Miami last night the Brooklyn Nets road record is 0-4 ATS in their last four. But. The Nets are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games following a straight-up loss of more than 10 points. Brooklyn fell one-point short of making it eight straight 100-point scoring output. Orlando reached the 30 win mark for the first time since 2011-12 with a win at Chicago Sunday that ended a six game losing streak. Tonight it's the NETS!

Boston at L.A. Clippers 10:30 ET

Celtics (+) over Clippers- The L.A. Clippers clinched a playoff spot with their win over Denver yesterday when DeAndre Jordan had 16 points, 16 rebounds and six blocked shots. Boston meanwhile has won their last four and can draw even on the road with a win here which will be difficult as the Clippers have won the last three as hosts but are 0-5ATS in their last five games following an ATS win. This time the Celtics get it done. Take BOSTON!

Sacramento at Portland 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (-) over Kings- now, let me think about this...Sacramento is off two blow-out wins over Phoenix and Dallas by a combined 44 points and now they are an 11-point underdog at Portland. So why would they be a double-digit dog other then they revert back to their inconsistent pattern of play. The Trail Blazers have won five straight home games and 11 of their last 13 against the Kings. The Kings are last in the NBA in defensive scoring allowing 110 points per game and even worse on the road. Take PORTLAND!

Phoenix at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Suns (+) over Timberwolves- Both these clubs are eliminated from the NBA playoffs but are playing their best basketball of the season. Minnesota's young talent has four wins in their last eight games and are off a loss to Utah but are 4-0 ATS following a straight-up loss. Phoenix has dropped their last two despite the fine play by rookie guard Devin Booker who has gone over 20 pints in four of the last five contests.The T'wolves defeated the Suns 117-87 while shooting 57% in a win in Phoenix in mid January. Turn-about-is-fair-play as Phoenix gets the money. Take the SUNS!     

Dallas at Sacramento 6:00 ET

Kings (+) over Mavericks- The Dallas Mavericks are fighting for the final playoff spot in the West but are struggling to get it done having lost their last two and are 2-9 in its last 11 games including a home loss to the Kings. Dirk Nowitzki is starting to take more night 'off' and the Mavericks will be without Chandler Parsons the rest of the season and are in free-fall right now. Take SACRAMENTO!    

Denver at Los Angeles Clippers 3:35 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers- As the season moves forward the L.A. Clippers have seemed to hit a wall losing five of the last seven. A buzzer beater gave them a win over Portland last time out but they haven't won back-to-back games in over a month and they are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall. Denver who will not be in the playoffs have won their last two and are building confidence as the season finishes. Take the NUGGETS!

San Antonio at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Thunder (-) over Spurs- I know and understand how valuable Kawhi Leonard is and he will be missing his second straight game but for the Spurs to be a double-digit underdog anywhere against anybody tells me there is Something rotten in Denmark.' Granted Oklahoma City has won six straight and is 5-0 ATS against teams with winning records and they are 10-2 ATS over San Antonio their last 12 visits. Okay, well maybe there is solid reason but, I think the Spurs are taking the night off. Take the THUNDER!

Atlanta at Detroit 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Pistons- The Detroit Pistons opened their current nine-game home stand with a loss to the Hawks and since have ripped off five straight wins. They are off Friday's won over Charlotte when they got to welcome Kentavious Caldwell-Pope back and moved into a tie with Indiana for the seventh playoff seed. Atlanta has won 12 of their last 15 and have won nine of the 13 meetings against the Pistons and are off a win over Milwaukee last night. It happens here again tonight. Take ATLANTA!

Toronto at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Raptors (-) over Pelicans- The Raptors made a run at the Cavaliers for the best overall record in the East and even though Cleveland isn't playing that well Toronto has failed to capitalize losing their first two of the three game road trip which ends tonight. New Orleans of course will be without Anthony Davis and other key personnel as Ryan Anderson and Jrue Holiday are also out. The Pelicans have lost seven of the past nine meetings including a pasting on the road last November. New Orleans is just playing out the string so to speak and wish to put this season behind them. Take TORONTO!    

Denver at L.A. Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Nuggets- The Denver Nuggets who are out of the NBA playoff as are the Lakers enter this contest off a buzzer beating win over Philadelphia as Emmanuel Mudiay drained a desperation 40-foot heave that went in for the win. Meanwhile, the Lakers here losing their five in six games at Phoenix 119-107. Denver has won two of the three meetings this year but Los Angeles will have the return of Kobe Bryant as and the improved play of D'Angelo Russell and Julius Randle. In this one the Lakers get even for the season series. Take LOS ANGELES!

Charlotte at Detroit 7:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Pistons- The Pistons are now in the eighth seed in the East for the NBA Playoff and lead the Wizards by 2-and-a-half games improving to 4-1 on their current nine game home stand. Charlotte is currently tied for the No. 5 spot in the East with Miami and a half-game behind the Hawks and Celtics for the No. 3 spot. The Hornets own two win over Detroit this season both at home and will get the money again tonight. Take CHARLOTTE!

Minnesota at Washington 7:00 ET

Wizards (-) over Timberwolves- The Washington Wizards a playoff team last season had their five-game winning streak ended by Atlanta last time out and fell one-game under .500 and trail the Detroit Pistons by two-games in the loss column for the final playoff seed in the Eastern Conference. The timberwolves have shown vast improvement as the season wears on but are still a meager 11-25 on the road and the home team has won six of the last seven in this series and get the money again tonight. Take WASHINGTON!  

Portland at L.A. Clippers

Trailblazers (+) over Clippers- I must say the Portland Trailblazers have done a fabulous job this season going 42-30 ATS and 37-35 straight-up after last seasons defections. It's been ALL Damian Lillard! This is the fourth meeting between the two with Portland winning the first early (Nov. 20) and the Clippers winning the next two with their last meeting January 4. Both clubs played last night L.A. Dropping their third straight against Golden State while the Blazers were beating Dallas. The Clippers are 0-6 ATS in their last five games against a team with a winning record. Take TRAILBLAZERS!

Cleveland at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Cavaliers- The Cavaliers have to keep their foot on the pedal as the Raptors are keeping the pressure on Cleveland to play more minutes among their starters then they wish. Getting Lebron and Irving some rest is just not possible at this time. The Cavs have won both meetings this season including a 91-78 win in Brooklyn in mid-January. This is their fifth game in seven days and a number of their starters may get some rest tonight. Take BROOKLYN!

Chicago at New York 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Bulls- These two met last night in Chicago where the Bulls were finishing a four-game home stand where the hosts had won the previous three and nine in-a-row against the Knicks. Most of the time when clubs go back-to-back we have a tendency to take the first game loser to win the next night but, tonight New York gets it done again. The Bulls are just 12-21 on the road and they fall again tonight. Take the KNICKS!

Sacramento at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Timberwolves- I've on the Timberwolves band wagon for a while now and 'we' now notice that the Vegas odds-makers see their worth as well. Although they have guaranteed themselves another losing season their play has had drastic improvement. Sacramento has moved up the food chain themselves as they have posted five more wins then Minnesota and have 27 entering this contest. The T'wolves have struggled at home and hurt the 'man' covering just 11 of 34 games ATS. Take SACRAMENTO!

Orlando at Detroit 7:30 ET

Pistons (-) over Magic- the Detroit Pistons have responded at the right time winners of their last three as they battle the Chicago Bulls for the final playoff spot in the East. Orlando who at this point is an 'also-ran' in this race and have dropped their last four. It doesn't look as if it will get any better for the Magic as they might as well have 'disappeared' in their last four meetings losing all four against Detroit by an average of 18.3 points. The beat goes on...take the PISTONS!  

Atlanta at Washington 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Wizards- it was just two short days ago when Washington marched into Atlanta (Wasn't that Sherman...) and grounded to Hawks with a convincing 117-102 win while they out-rebounded Atlanta 44-33. The Hawks are 7-2 ATS in their last nine road games and are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six visits to Washington. Before that loss to the Wizards on Monday night the Hawks had won 16 of 18 at home against Washington and will get payback tonight. Take ATLANTA!  

Charlotte at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Hornets- The Hornets are riding high after their unbelievable come-back win over San Antonio last night. Scoring only seven points in the first quarter and trailing by 23 before they made their move and won 91-88. Brooklyn who has had a dismal season has lost six of their last seven but will have rookie Rondae Hollis-Jeffereson returning from his fractured right ankle. The Nets have dropped their last two hosting Charlotte but had won the previous six. Hornets in a letdown spot as Nets take advantage. Take BROOKLYN!

Memphis at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Grizzlies- The Phoenix Suns who have just 19 wins with season try to get to 20 by defeating Memphis for the third straight time this season. Memphis just ended a four-game losing streak with the return of Zach Randolph who return with season's best 28 points and career high 10 assists and 11 rebounds. The Grizzlies also will have the return of Matt Barnes who returns once again for an one-game suspension. Still, it's the rising SUNS!

San Antonio at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets(+) over Spurs- San Antonio just posted an 87-79 victory over Golden State and now head to Charlotte to play the Hornets who they have defeated 10 straight times. The Spurs winners of six straight are just three-games behind the Warriors and haven't lost to Charlotte since January 15, 2010 and are 6-2 ATS in the last eight meetings. The Hornets are 5-1 ATS in their last six games following an ATS loss. Take the HORNETS!  

Denver at Cleveland 7:05 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Nuggets- Am I floating above the clouds when I think that this is a very strong 'price' as the Cavaliers just clinched a playoff spot and but are looking to hold back the Raptors for the top seed in the East. Cleveland has dropped two of their last four and are off a pasting in Miami where they lost 122-101. Look for Cleveland to bounce back with a solid effort as they dominate with NBA bottom feeder who is just 13-22 on the road. Take the CAVALIERS!

Oklahoma City at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Thunder- The Pacers who just lost for the seventh time in eight tries when going into overtime with their Thursday night loss to Toronto have had their way against the Thunder winning the last two meetings. Listen to this, I found this hard to believe but Indiana has to win one more home game to extend their winning home record to 27 straight season the most in the NBA. It's just another good spot for the Pacers. Take INDIANA!

Sacramento at Detroit 7:30 ET

Pistons (-) over Kings- The Pistons have dropped their last two games and 3-of-4 and are now at .500 (34-34) for the season and fighting for the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. Detroit beings a nine-game homestand (seems long doesn't) that begins against four teams with losing record. They Pistons who have surrendered 242 points in their last two games will be up against the worst defense in the NBA as the Kings give up 109.5 points per contest while losing 10 of their last 12. Injuries have hurt Sacramento and the Pistons are in need. Take DETROIT!

Minnesota at Memphis 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Grizzlies- How's this for an 'odd' looking line for Minnesota (21-46) to be a road favorite in Memphis against a 39-28 most likely playoff bound club. There are tow huge factors that contribute to the 'Vegas' way of thinking and that is the Timberwolves are growing up fast as their young matures but the biggest factor is that nobody is playing for the Grizzlies. They have six players either out of injured and it is just too much to overcome at this level. Take MINNESOTA!  

Atlanta at Detroit 7:30 ET

Pistons (+) over Hawks- Detroit coach Stan Van Gundy is livid over the Pistons effort their last time out and is not happy with their overall play the past three games with only a win over lowly Philadelphia. Detroit is 19-11 at home are trying to bounce back from a 124-81 loss to the Wizards on Monday and have lost eight of the past 12 meetings but have split two games this season. Atlanta has won their last two and five of their last seven but the Hawks get grounded here. Take the PISTONS!  

Oklahoma City at Boston 7:00

Celtics (+) over Thunder- Oklahoma City no doubt is a threat against any opponent as they race into the playoffs playing 10 of their final 15 games on the road where they are 13-18. The Thunder come storming into Boston routing Portland on Monday 128-94 while the Celtics have dropped back-to-back games for the first time in two months and are looking to correct their current path. Although OKC has won the last two and five of their last seven in Boston tonight's not their turn. Take the CELTICS!  

Toronto at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Raptors- The Bucks made a 'move' 11 games ago that is paying off dividends that make them look toward a bright future.Sine they started to play Giannia Antetokunmo has delivered four triple double in 11 games and Milwaukee has shown steady improvement. Toronto had won nine of 11 before getting beat in Chicago Monday at home and now travel. The Raptors are 3-0 agains the Bucks this season winning by an average of 15 points. This time it's different. Take MILWAUKEE!

Milwaukee at Brooklyn 8:00 ET

Nets (+) over Bucks- The Brooklyn Nets return home to host their former coach as Jason Kidd brings his Milwaukee Bucks into the 'City's' largest borrow of a loss to the NBA's worst in the Philadelphia 76ers. The Bucks have shown tremendous improvement this season under Kidd as he has put his trust into a youth movement led by Giannis Antetekounmpo and Jabari Parker. Milwaukee opened the season with a win here but this time the Nets get it done. Take BROOKLYN!

Washington at Utah 9:00 ET

Wizards (+) over Jazz- Both clubs enter this fray stumbling left and right as Washington has dropped their last three and Utah their past two games including seven of their last eight. The Wizards came out of the All-Star break winning seven of nine and tonight will have the return of Bradley Beal who has played in just 41 games this season. The Jazz will most likely miss out on the playoffs for the four straight year while the Wizards are looking to return for the second straight season. Take WASHINGTON!

Detroit at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Hornets- The Hornets are streaking toward the playoffs with five straight wins as they sit in the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference. Detroit is in a battle for the final playoff spot and are No. 9 right now on the outside looking in. The Pistons have won six of their last eight and their last two defeating Portland and Dallas while Charlotte's five straight wins have come against teams with losing records. The Hornets crushed Detroit 108-84 here on December 7 and the Pistons look to even the ledger. Take DETROIT!

Atlanta at Toronto 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Raptors- The Hawks have recovered from their little slump and have bounced back to win five of their last six including their last three with their only loss coming at the hands of Golden State. The Toronto Raptors have won 13 of their last 14 at home. These teams will meet twice after this contest as the Hawks try and gain ground on the Celtics and Heat. Atlanta who also has two game against Cleveland and will need to continue their fine defensive play allowing just 84.4 points in their last six wins. Take ATLANTA!

Detroit at Dallas 8:30 ET

Pistons (+) over Mavericks- The Mavericks are slipping fast having lost their last three as they have dropped into a sixth place tie with Portland in the West. Dallas has dominated this series winning 13 of the past 16 meetings but this is a different Detroit club as coach their improvement have been dramatic. Dallas is aging fast and the rising Pistons have five wins in their last seven games. Their fine play continues here. Take DETROIT!   

Miami at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Heat- The loss of Chris Bosh once again hasn't slowed down the Heat and has actually improved without him as Hassan Whiteside has more then picked-up the slack as he has double-digit rebounds in nine straight contests. Miami is off a winning streak where they have beat up on weaker competition as they defeated the Knicks, 76ers and Suns. Now they will start to face some real opposition and on the road to boot. Take MILWAUKEE!  

New Orleans at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (-) over Pelicans- As the season has moved forward the Charlotte Hornets have come together and have now won their last four and five straight at home. The Hornets are 22-9 at home and play 10 of their next 12 games as hosts. New Orleans has been a major disappointment this season after making the playoffs last season and having one of the NBA's brightest stars in Anthony Davis who is the only player to respond to their 'new' coach Alvin Gentry this season. This price is high as Pelicans swoon. Take CHARLOTTE!  

Milwaukee at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Bulls- The return of All-Star guard Jimmy Butler helped Chicago handle the Rockets on Saturday scoring 24 points, grabbing 11 rebounds with six assists. With him back the Bulls ended a four-game losing streak while Milwaukee has lost four of their last six including a home loss yesterday to Oklahoma City. The Bucks are witnessing the rise of Giannis Antetokounmpo who posted his third triple-double against the Thunder and hope his play translates into victories. Take the BUCKS!  

Sacramento at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Kings +) over Pelicans- It is understood that Anthony Davis is the key to New Orleans being successful but without help from his teammates the Pelicans just don't win. So, now with shooting guard Eric Gordon out with a broken finger they have lost four straight with him sidelined. Sacramento has injuries to their guard as well as Rajon Rondo have slowed his game as the Kings have dropped five of their past six games. The Pelicans have won both meetings this season and yet they are in a pick-em situation at home and that seems a bit odd. Take the KINGS!