Rocketmansports.net - Free Picks from Expert Hanidcappers

Become a Facebook Fan!

Follow Me on Twitter!

NBA Archive
Date	Match Up	Rating	Score	Result	Profit	Lead Time	Analysis
02-04-18	Blazers v. Celtics OVER 201.5		96-97	Loss	-106	7 h 32 m	Show
Portland has scored in triple-digits in each of its last 17 games. The Trail Blazers have one of the most explosive backcourts in the league with Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, who is on fire with 71 points in his last two games. The Trail Blazers just gave up 19 3-pointers to the Raptors on Friday in a 130-105 loss. Boston ranks fourth in 3-point shots made per game. The Celtics aren't likely to have Kyrie Irving again, but Terry Rozier has been brilliant replacing him. The Trail Blazers' defense has slipped while their offense has picked up. Portland has yielded 110 or more points in 11 of its last 17 games.
02-03-18	Rockets v. Cavs +3.5		120-88	Loss	-102	8 h 59 m	Show
Call it a hunch, but I believe the Cavaliers will show up hard today and protect their home floor against the Rockets. The Cavaliers just may be a better team minus Kevin Love. The Rockets are short-handed, too, with Eric Gordon out and Trevor Ariza questionable. LeBron James wants to prove that rumors of his going to the Warriors are pure speculation. His top priority is getting the Cavaliers straighten out. Cleveland has been a pure fade this season when laying points. But being a home 'dog in a game with much pride at stake is a different story.
02-03-18	Bulls v. Clippers UNDER 222		103-113	Win	100	6 h 22 m	Show
Rust, new faces and an early start time all work in favor of Under the total in this matchup. Note this is an early West Coast starting time being a day game. There should be lots of defensive energy and potential rust on offense as the Clippers have been idle since Tuesday while the Bulls have been off the past two days. The extra time off should work in favor of the defense given additional practice and preparation. The Clippers already have been through 16 different lineups and that number is rising today as newly acquired Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley are expected to make their LA debuts here. There's going to be an adjustment period as the Clippers work these two in while no longer having the outstanding, consistent scoring of Blake Griffin. Bradley also is an ace defender. The Bulls are missing point guard Kris Dunn, who remains out with a concussion. Chicago is averaging 102 points in its last four games. The Bulls no longer have Nikola Mirotic, who was their leading scorer. He was traded to the Pelicans for a bunch of players who don't figure to make major offensive contributions.
02-02-18	Warriors -12.5 v. Kings	Top	119-104	Win	100	13 h 18 m	Show
I want the Warriors going for me here and I'm willing to lay the wood. Not only does Golden State have revenge for a 110-106 shocking home loss to the Kings from Nov. 27, but it is coming off an embarrassing 30-point road loss to the Jazz this past Tuesday. The Warriors have had two full days off to think about that horrific loss to Utah. Sacramento, meanwhile, is fat and happy having just concluded a six-game road trip with an upset victory against the Pelicans on Tuesday. The Kings haven't been home since Jan. 17, a span of more than two weeks. They have failed to cover in five of their past six home contests. Golden State hasn't lost two games in a row all season. The Warriors aren't going to lose here. The question is can they cover this high road number? They didn't have Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant when they lost to the Kings earlier. Now the Warriors have all their key players healthy. They should be highly motivated and playing one of the five worst teams in the league. So this sure spells blowout to me
02-02-18	Heat v. 76ers UNDER 202		97-103	Win	100	15 h 49 m	Show
Miami surrenders the third-fewest points per game in the NBA. The 76ers are an underrated defensive club raking in the top-five in defensive efficiency. The 76ers' defense will be made easier by the Heat's slow tempo. Miami rates 30th in offensive efficiency during the past 10 games. Miami has failed to break the 95-point barrier during its past five games.
02-02-18	Heat +4.5 v. 76ers		97-103	Loss	-110	11 h 4 m	Show
The Heat usually play better on weekends - 17-8 on Friday-through-Sunday games - and are 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 games. The 76ers are much better in an underdog role. The 76ers have talent, but are full of youth and inexperience. Already they have blown leads of 11 or more points eight times. This also is Philadelphia's first home game following a four-game road trip that ended Wednesday night. So concentration may be a problem. The Heat can neutralize Joel Embiid's impact with Hassan Whiteside, the top rim protector in the Eastern Conference. The Heat are well-coached, disciplined and have a deep bench. They make for a worthy underdog here.
02-01-18	Bucks v. Wolves -5.5		89-108	Win	100	5 h 30 m	Show
Minnesota has won its last 10 home games. The Timberwolves, however, have dropped their last two games, both on the road. So they are in stop-the-pain mode. The Bucks will be minus Eric Bledsoe. Milwaukee is 4-0 since letting Jason Kidd go. However, they've been very fortunate during this span. That 4-0 record is deceiving as they've played three lottery teams and the 76ers minus Joel Embiid.
02-01-18	Grizzlies +8 v. Pistons		102-104	Win	100	8 h 55 m	Show
There's a buzz in Detroit today with Blake Griffin set to make his Pistons debut. But this buzz can't hide the fact the Pistons are 1-8 in their last nine games, have failed to cover the past five times they've been favored and they no longer have Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley, their two leading scorers. They were traded to the Clippers as part of the deal for Griffin. The Grizzlies have signaled they are in rebuild mode after declaring their intentions to sit out Tyreke Evans until he can be traded. Mike Conley is out for the season. But Memphis still is a strong defensive team - ranking sixth in fewest points allowed per game - and have been playing well covering seven of its last nine games. Memphis opened its current road trip with a four-point road loss to Indiana Wednesday. Now they are nearly getting that many points against the Pistons, who have been much worse than the Pacers. Griffin could make a difference, but there's going to be an adjustment period. Memphis 7-1-1 ATS the past nine times following a loss. The Pistons aren't good enough to cover a spread this high. They are 2-5-1 ATS the eight times this season they've been favorites of six points or more. They are 1-5 in their last six home games and 3-13-1 ATS versus opponents with a winning percentage below .400.
02-01-18	Raptors v. Wizards UNDER 214		119-122	Loss	-105	6 h 53 m	Show
Take away John Wall and the Wizards become more of a grinder team. They have to with Tomas Satorasnky and Tim Frazier at the point. Those two took advantage of a weak and tired Hawks defense when Washington put up 129 points on Atlanta this past Saturday. But they've lost their surprise element. The Wizards are an above average defense team and they relied on that in beating the Thunder, 102-96, this past Tuesday. The Raptors are familar now with Satoransky and Frazier. The Wizards averaged only 95.5 points per 100 possessions against the Thunder, who were missing their star defender, Andre Roberson. Toronto has a top-10 defense. The Raptors have held four of their last seven foes to fewer than 98 points a game. The Raptors will be hurt offensively by Fred VonVleet, their No. 3 guard, being out. VonVleet had scored 19 and 25 points during two of his last four games.
01-31-18	Knicks +8.5 v. Celtics	Top	73-103	Loss	-110	12 h 37 m	Show
This is Boston's fifth game in nine days and fifth different venue. The Celtics haven't played at home since Jan. 21. So the Celtics' focus could be off and their energy level down. Boston played Golden State extremely tough before losing by four points this past Saturday. The Celtics then edged Denver by one point in the rocky mountain high altitude in another tough game this past Monday. Now they are back on East Coast time drawing a division rival. The Knicks have been playing more respectable on the road covering six of their last 10 away games. Boston is 1-6-1 ATS the past eight times hosting opponents with losing road marks. New York has won two in a row beating the Suns and Nets last night by 16 points. Fatigue shouldn't be a factor for Brooklyn, though. None of the Nets logged more than 32 minutes Tuesday night and the team had been idle the previous three days. The Celtics are shorthanded in the backcourt with Kyrie Irving and Marcus Smart both out.
01-30-18	Blazers v. Clippers UNDER 219.5		104-96	Win	100	10 h 9 m	Show
This is the Clippers' first game without Blake Griffin, their major inside scoring threat and top offensive focal point. The Clippers are going to go through an adjustment period minus Griffin. There is no guarantee that Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley, who the Clippers received as part of the deal for Griffin, will be able to play in this game. If that's the case, the Clippers will be very much short-handed as they also have a number of injuries. The Trail Blazers face a rust factor as they've been idle the past three days. Their defense should be better, though, than it has been with fresh legs and added practice time.
01-30-18	Blazers -135 v. Clippers		104-96	Win	100	10 h 8 m	Show
Portland is 5-1 in its last six games. The Trail Blazers are playing their best ball of the season, according to point guard Damian Lillard. This spot sets up great, too, for Portland. The Trail Blazers last played on Friday and draw the Clippers in their first game without Blake Griffin. Griffin was traded to the Pistons on Monday. As part of the deal, the Clippers received Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley. It's not a given that Harris and Bradley will be ready to play today. Griffin was the Clippers' second-leading scorer and focal point of their offense. The Clippers lack sufficient scoring inside minus Griffin. The trade has to be a shock for the Clippers. Griffin has been with the team since drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 2009. There is going to be a mental and physical adjustment for the Clippers minus Griffin especially in this first game without him. The well-rested Trail Blazers should be able to take full advantage. They have covered the last five times when enjoying three or more days rest.
01-30-18	Cavs -5.5 v. Pistons	Top	114-125	Loss	-107	8 h 36 m	Show
The Pistons have become one of the worst teams in the NBA since point guard Reggie Jackson suffered an ankle injury. They've gone 3-12 following Jackson's injury and have lost eight in a row. Detroit's latest defeat came to Cleveland, 121-104, as 7 1/2-point road underdogs two days ago. Now look at the spread. It's much lower. Detroit's home-court advantage isn't nearly worth that. The Pistons have lost and failed to cover during their past five games at Little Caesars Arena, losing to three Eastern Conference teams worse than the Cavaliers during this span. Cleveland has now beaten the Pistons in its last three meetings, winning those games by an average of 25.7 points per game. The Cavaliers are playing better with two straight victories. If newly acquired Blake Griffin doesn't play, and he's not expected to play, the Cavaliers will have the four best players on the court. The big news is the Pistons acquired Griffin on Monday. Detroit gave up its two leading scorers, Tobias Harris and Avery Bradley, as part of the cost to get Griffin. Bradley is a premier defensive guard.
01-30-18	Thunder v. Wizards OVER 219		96-102	Loss	-115	16 h 47 m	Show
The teams just met this past Thursday at Oklahoma City and the Thunder beat the Wizards, 121-112. That's a combined 233 points being scored. Andre Roberson is the Thunder's best defensive player. He logged more than 23 minutes in that game. However, Roberson suffered a season ending injury against the Pistons on Saturday. Oklahoma City gave up 112 points to the 76ers on Sunday in its first game without Roberson. The Wizards average 107 points, same as the 76ers. If you discount a flat road performance against the Mavericks, the Wizards are averaging 118 points in their last four games. The Wizards scored 129 points and had excellent ball movement in their last game against the Hawks despite missing John Wall, who is questionable for this game with a sore knee. The Thunder are averaging 122.5 points in their last six games. Russell Westbrook and Paul George have been playing at their superstar levels during this span.
01-29-18	Celtics v. Nuggets OVER 205.5		111-110	Win	100	5 h 11 m	Show
The Celtics play differently on the road against Western Conference opponents. This total doesn't fully reflect that. Boston's last three games - against the Lakers, Clippers and Warriors - have all been on the road. And all three of those games resulted in the combined score being at least 214 or more points. The Over, in fact, has cashed in seven of the Celtics' past 10 games versus Western Conference opponents.
01-29-18	Heat -118 v. Mavs	Top	95-88	Win	100	19 h 17 m	Show
The Heat came on strong during the second half of last season and they're displaying signs of repeating that performance winning nine of their last 13. Miami has been strong on the road covering seven of its last nine away matchups. The Heat have covered in five of their past six trips to Dallas. When backing the Heat you can count on good coaching with Erik Spoelstra, a full team effort and strong bench play. The Heat's depth was on display when they met the Mavericks on Dec. 22. Miami won 113-101 despite not having Hassan Whiteside and Goran Dragic, its two best players. Key reserves James Johnson and Justise Winslow also missed that game. All four players are healthy now. Whiteside should be able to dominate the boards against the Mavericks, who rank last in rebounding margin. The Heat surrender the third-fewest points in the league at 101.3. The Mavericks are averaging 96.7 points during their last four games, failing to reach triple-digits in any of those games. Dallas is just 10-17 at home, 12-15 ATS. The Mavericks have lost six of their last seven overall games, including the past three. They could remain shorthanded in the backcourt with J.J. Barea and Devin Harris each questionable. Monday Free Play Pacers minus 2 1/2 hosting Hornets Victor Oladipo has become the face of the Pacers franchise with a breakout season and well deserved All-Star berth. But 6-foot-11 center Myles Turner is Indiana's second-best player and a huge key. Turner played for the first time in 10 games two days ago. Turner logged just 11 minutes and was noticeably rusty in the Pacers' 114-112 home win against Orlando. Turner should be less rusty here. His presence is going to be huge for the Pacers even if he doesn't score because he provides spacing and open driving lanes for Oladipo, Thaddeus Young, Darren Collison and a hot Lance Stephenson, who plays better at home and is 19-of-34 shooting from the floor in his last four games. Turner can neutralize Dwight Howard on the defensive end, too. Turner ranks second in the NBA in blocked shots per game. The Pacers have become a respectable middle-of-the-road type team at 27-23. The Hornets continue to regress and are unlikely to make the playoffs once again. They are 20-28 and talking about dealing their star guard, Kemba Walker. Charlotte is 6-14 on the road. Only Atlanta has fewer away victories in the Eastern Conference than the Hornets. Charlotte went 0-2 at Indiana last season losing by an average of 18.5 points. The Hornets carry a high fatigue rating in action for the fourth time in six days. This is the first time the teams are meeting this season. Charlotte hosts Indiana on Friday. So the Pacers should have the added urgency of protecting their home floor.
01-28-18	Clippers v. Pelicans -118	Top	112-103	Loss	-118	10 h 15 m	Show
You can find the Pelicans listed in the obituary section rather than the sports pages after they just lost DeMarcus Cousins for the season. Cousins suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in the final seconds of the Pelicans' victory against the Rockets Friday. That was New Orleans' seventh win in its last eight games and fourth straight. Cousins' injury is likely to doom the Pelicans' chances of making the playoffs. But right now the Pelicans are playing their best ball and they will be highly motivated to win this first matchup minus Cousins especially this being a Sunday home game. The Clippers are nothing special. They are just a .500 club with plenty of injuries of their own with Austin Rivers, Patrick Beverley and Danilo Galinari all out.
01-27-18	Nets +11 v. Wolves		97-111	Loss	-107	8 h 0 m	Show
The Timberwolves are a rising power with an impressive 24-9 record against fellow Western Conference opponents. Strangely, though, the Timberwolves struggle versus the lesser Eastern Conference going 7-11 against those teams. The Nets have been huge underdog money-makers all season especially on the road where they have covered 16 of 24 times in that role for 67 percent. When catching four or more points, the Nets are 20-8 on the season for 71 percent. D'Angelo Russell has been back for four games now. He looked the best he has since returning from a knee injury in the Nets' last game. Brooklyn was blasted in that game, however, by the Bucks losing 116-91 last night. Nets coach Kenny Atkinson questioned the effort of his team following that loss. So I expect the Nets to play very hard in this matchup. They are 7-3 ATS the past 10 times when playing without rest. They also had covered six in a row on the road until that loss to the Bucks. The Timberwolves haven't had All-Star guard Jimmy Butler in their last four games. He's a game-time decision for tonight.
01-26-18	76ers v. Spurs -3.5	Top	97-78	Loss	-104	15 h 51 m	Show
The 76ers beat the Spurs for the first time in six years, 112-106, at home a little more than three weeks ago. I can't see the 76ers sweeping the Spurs by winning in San Antonio, a place they haven't won at since 2004. The prideful Spurs are down Kawhi Leonard, but still have been dominant at AT&T Center going 20-3 SU, 16-6-1 ATS at home this season. They are 15-1 in their last 16 home contsts winning their last six home games by an average of 13.3 points a game. The 76ers have turned the corner. So they are far more of a threat to end their 13-game losing skid at San Antonio than in previous years. But they must prove they have the maturity and discipline to beat what should be a fired-up Spurs club bent on revenge. Gregg Popovich has made sure he has a fresh LaMarcus Aldridge and Pau Gasol for this game. Newly-appointed starting point guard Dejounte Murray is in the midst of a break-out type season.The Spurs have a deep bench, too. They aren't just about Leonard.
01-26-18	Lakers v. Bulls -4		108-103	Loss	-102	15 h 22 m	Show
The spot and situation set up for Chicago here. The question is can the Bulls be trusted to cover a margin at home? I believe they are. Since opening 3-20, the Bulls have turned things around going 15-10. Chicago has been one of the hottest ATS teams covering 20 of its past 26 games. The Bulls have won nine of their last 13 home games with the losses during this span occurring to the Warriors, Rockets, Raptors and Trail Blazers in overtime. Chicago has covered 10 of its last 13 at United Center. The Bulls have done the job versus bad teams going 8-0-1 ATS versus sub .500 opponents. The Lakers enter the road fat and happy after a 3-0 homestand with the last victory coming against the Celtics, 108-107, this past Tuesday. LA hasn't been nearly as good on the road going 6-14 away from Staples Center. The Bulls have revenge for a November loss to the Lakers when they weren't playing nearly as well and are coming off an embarrassing 14-point road loss to the 76ers from two nights ago. That was a rare flat game for the Bulls and it occurred following a tough road overtime loss to the Pelicans. The Bulls are back home now, rested and ready.
01-25-18	Knicks v. Nuggets -4.5		118-130	Win	100	11 h 42 m	Show
The Knicks are a horrendous 6-18 SU, 10-14 ATS away from home. The Nuggets are 17-6 at Pepsi Center with a winning point spread mark there. Given the Knicks' high fatigue ranking - fifth game in nine days - and terrible defense, I'm not going to get fancy. I'll just lay the points. New York is giving up an average of 125 points in its last two games. This is the Knicks' sixth straight road game. They have a far more winnable game on Friday against the Suns. Denver has a number of underrated players with Nikola Jokic, Gary Harris and Jamal Murray coming to mind. The Nuggets are well rested, too, having last played on Monday.
01-25-18	Wizards +5.5 v. Thunder		112-121	Loss	-115	9 h 23 m	Show
The Thunder have been terrible as chalk going 7-13 ATS versus foes with a winning record and 13-27 overall when favored. Washington actually has a worse record than Oklahoma City by just one game and has more All-Stars than the Thunder do. The Wizards should have Otto Porter back and are out for redemption following a horrendous 98-75 loss to Dallas on Monday. So expect a strong effort.
01-24-18	Suns +7.5 v. Pacers		101-116	Loss	-105	14 h 38 m	Show
This point spread is too high considering the situation. The Suns have covered all three game of their current road trip so far and should be motivated for this matchup since the Pacers embarrassed them at home just 10 days ago. Despite that loss, the Suns still have covered 11 of the last 14 in the series, including going 6-1 at Indiana. This is Indiana's first home game following a five-game road swing that concluded with the the Pacers upsetting the Spurs on Sunday night. Myles Turner, the Pacers' best big man, has been out with a right elbow injury and is questionable here. The Pacers are a bit fat and happy being back home following their highly-satisfying victory against San Antonio. The Pacers also have a much more important game on deck when they play the Cavaliers on Friday.
01-23-18	Celtics -4 v. Lakers	Top	107-108	Loss	-110	21 h 4 m	Show
Technically speaking the Celtics haven't won in the United States since Jan. 6. They did beat the 76ers in London. But Boston hasn't won since losing three straight games, all at home. It's the first time Boston has dropped three consecutive games all season. Now the Celtics head West to warm weather and to find their groove. I see that happening here against the Lakers. I have a lot of confidence in Brad Stevens. The Celtics meet the Clippers on Wednesday followed by games at Golden State on Saturday and Denver on Monday. Those will not be easy games. So this is the matchup the Celtics need to win to get out of their funk. The Lakers have been playing better. But this is a lottery team that has backcourt injuries. Lonzo Ball is out with a knee injury and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has missed the past two games with an Achilles injury. That's LA's starting backcourt. The Lakers are 2-8 without Ball, their point guard. Boston has covered 71 percent of its road games this season. Kyrie Irving is back so the Celtics are healthy. Boston rolled past the Lakers, 107-96, in the earlier meeting this season on Nov. 8. The Celtics achieved that 11-point victory despite not having Al Horford and losing Jayson Tatum for the second half because of an ankle injury.
01-22-18	Suns v. Bucks -4.5		105-109	Loss	-110	10 h 19 m	Show
First the bad news. Giannis Antetokonumpo isn't going to play. Now the good news, the point spread is greatly reduced because of that and the Bucks still should be able to take care of business against a bottom-feeder they have dominated. Milwaukee has defeated Phoenix five consecutive times, including 113-107 at Phoenix on Nov. 22. The Bucks didn't have Antetokounmpo for that game either. But former Sun Eric Bledsoe and Kris Middleton made up for Antetokonumpo's absence by scoring a combined 70 points. The Bucks will have Malcolm Brogdon back after he missed the Bucks' last game. The Bucks are in stop-the-pain mode going 1-4 in their last five games. Their losses during this time frame have come to teams much better than the Suns - Warriors, Heat twice and 76ers. Phoenix, by contrast, is fat and happy coming off a 108-100 upset road victory against the Nuggets. The Suns had dropped their previous three road matchups by a combined 44 points. Phoenix has failed to cover five of the last six times following a straight-up victory.
01-22-18	76ers v. Grizzlies +3.5		101-105	Win	100	10 h 18 m	Show
The 76ers are riding an impressive three-game win streak beating three of the best Eastern Conference teams - the Raptors, Celtics and Bucks. The 76ers host the Bulls on Wednesday. But first is this nonconference matchup against Memphis. The 76ers are talented. They also are young, possibly short-handed in the backcourt with JJ Redick out and Jerryd Bayless questionable due to a sore wrist and excited like the rest of Philadelphia about the Eagles reaching the Super Bowl following Sunday's upset victory against the Vikings. So the 76ers may lack the focus necessary to win a road game against a top-five defensive team. The Grizzlies are under-the-radar. They are 4-2 SU, 5-1 ATS in their last six games. They also are 5-0-1 ATS during their past six home contests and have won six of their last eight at FedEx Forum. Memphis also has dominated this series beating the 76ers nine straight times.
01-22-18	Jazz -135 v. Hawks	Top	90-104	Loss	-135	12 h 20 m	Show
One of the most difficult schedules in the league and Rudy Gobert missing 26 games has contributed to the Jazz's disappointing 19-27 record. But now Gobert is back and the schdule has lightened up for Utah. The Jazz have won two of their last three while averaging 120 points during this span, their highest three-game offensive span of the season. Utah just played one of its best offensive games of the season in beating the Clippers, 125-113, this past Saturday. I'm seeing a buy sign on Utah - at least against this opponent. The Hawks are 13-32 on the season. That's tied with Sacramento for the worst mark in the league. The Hawks are better at home, but still have lost 13 of 22 games at Philips Arena. The Jazz are 4 1/2 games out of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. So this becomes almost a must-win spot for Utah considering the lowly caliber of opponent.
01-21-18	Nets v. Pistons UNDER 209		101-100	Win	100	10 h 9 m	Show
There are a lot of ingredients here that point to this game going Under the total. Let's start with the situation. It's a day game. That's often a plus for the Under. It's a stop-the-pain game for Detroit, losers of four in a row. It's the Nets' revenge game of the year. They suffered their worst home loss of the season 11 days ago losing to the Pistons, 114-80. Brooklyn was in a vulnerable spot for that game having just taken the Raptors to overtime before losing by one point the night before. Their energy was lacking. It won't be here. Now let's talk current form. The Nets have slowed things down ranking in the middle of the pack in tempo during the last two weeks. Brooklyn ranks last in offensive efficiency during this span, too. However, the Nets have played stronger defense in January than they did earlier in the season. If you discount that bad performance against the Pistons, the Nets have held five of their last nine opponents to fewer than 101 points. Only two opponents in the last 10 games have scored more than 107 points on the Nets during regulation. The Nets just held the Heat to six points under their season average in a 101-95 home win this past Friday. The Pistons rank 25th in scoring. They are a bottom-10 team, too, in field goal percentage and free throw shooting. Now let's discuss matchup. There are key players back from injury who are pluses for the Under. The Nets have back DeMarre Carroll and D'Angelo Rusell. Both are underrated defensive players. Russell played 14 minutes against the Heat after missing the previous 32 games following knee surgery. He was rusty shooting-wise, as expected, but provided a defensive spark. Detroit has reserve sparkplug Stanley Johnson back from a hip injury. Johnson is a stiff on offense, but a good defender.
01-20-18	Mavs v. Blazers OVER 208	Top	108-117	Win	100	16 h 18 m	Show
Since the end of Christmas both Dallas and Portland have become strong offensive, rather than defensive, teams. But the oddsmaker hasn't fully caught up to this. Dallas has reached triple digits in eight of its last nine games. The Mavericks have scored 114 points or more in six of those nine games. Portland is on a streak of 10 straight triple digit scoring games. The Trail Blazers have scored 110 or more points in eight of those 10 games. During this time span, both teams are ranking in the top-five in offensive efficiency and in the bottom-10 in defensive efficiency. Increased tempo and strong guard play has contributed to this. Rookie Dennis Smith Jr. has started to live up to his hype, while the Trail Blazers are finding extra minutes for Shabazz Napier joining sharpshooters Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum in the backcourt giving Portland an effective small-ball lineup.
01-20-18	Raptors v. Wolves -3		109-115	Win	100	9 h 30 m	Show
The Timberwolves are in stop-the-pain mode and catch the Raptors off a huge, physical 86-83 home win against the Spurs last night. That was a hugely satisfying victory for the Raptors. It's hard to imagine they are going to be as hungry for this non-conference matchup as the Timberwolves, losers of two in a row. Minnesota hasn't lost three consecutive games all season. But the Timberwolves are off back-to-back road losses to the Magic and Rockets. They looked past the Magic and paid the price. There's no shame in losing to the Rockets at Houston especially with James Harden back in the Rockets' lineup like he was for that game. The Timberwolves are 18-6 at Target Center this season. Their last six home games have all been double-digit victories, including wins against the Cavaliers. Thunder and Trail Blazers.
01-20-18	Thunder +3.5 v. Cavs		148-124	Win	100	11 h 46 m	Show
Lot of superstars with a lot of egos. They're all going to be together here in this nationally televised day game. This is just the fifth time the Thunder will be underdogs this season. They are 3-1 ATS as 'dogs. Oklahoma City has gone 21-13 since opening 4-7. The Thunder have won three in a row. Cleveland is 1-4 in its last five games and has been terrible as a favorite failing to cover 12 of the last 13 times in that role. Oklahoma City has the far superior defense and just got back defensive ace Andre Roberson. The Thunder have been idle since Wednesday so their energy and pride levels should be off the charts.
01-19-18	Pacers -125 v. Lakers		86-99	Loss	-125	12 h 39 m	Show
Thanks to Victor Oladipo's All-Star-caliber season, the Pacers have reached mid-level respectability. The Lakers are back to being a bottom level type team losting 12 of their last 17 games. The Pacers played flat in a 100-86 road loss to Portland last night. But they were 5-1 SU and ATS in their previous six games. It's not too much to ask the Pacers to beat the Lakers especially considering all of LA's key injuries. The Lakers will be missing their starting backcourt of Lonzo Ball (knee) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (Achilles). Ball leads the Lakers in assists and rebounds. In addition, the Lakers also could be missing their two top scorers, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram. Both are banged up. The Lakers' depth isn't nearly strong enough to compensate for so many missing starters.
01-19-18	Spurs +6.5 v. Raptors		83-86	Win	100	7 h 13 m	Show
No Kawhi Leonard here. Rudy Gay reamins out, too. Still, this is too many points for the Raptors to lay to an elite team. Gregg Popovich is an "A" coach and he has a strong bench. Even without Leonard, the Spurs have gone 25-12 in the games he's missed. Toronto hasn't been playing that well losing two of its past three games and going 2-4 ATS in its last six. Only once in their last six games have the Raptors won by more than five points.
01-18-18	Pacers v. Blazers OVER 213		86-100	Loss	-110	15 h 16 m	Show
The perception is Portland is a strong defensive team and a below average offensive club. The season statistics bear that out where the Trail Blazers rank eighth defensively and 20th in scoring. But since the start of January those perceptions have turned wrong. The Trail Blazers have become a top-five offense in terms of points per possession and their defense ranks 26th since the calendar turned to 2018. Star point guard Damian Lillard is close to 100 percent. He's averaged 26 points in his last four games while shooting 50.7 percent from the floor. The Trail Blazers have started to play more small ball going with three guards - Lillard, C.J. McCollum and Shabazz Napier, who shined in Lillard's absence. This means increased tempo. The Pacers remain without their rim protector Myles Turner, who ranks second in the NBA in blocked shots. The Pacers have been playing well despite the absence of Turner. Indiana is averaging 111 points per game game during its last six games. Victor Oladipo has emerged as a star ranking 12th in scoring at 24.3 points per game.
01-17-18	Knicks v. Grizzlies OVER 202		99-105	Win	100	5 h 42 m	Show
The Knicks haven't been playing much defense surrendering triple digits in nine of their last 10 games. Sparked by the return of Tim Hardaway Jr., though, the Knicks have been producing offensively. New York has scored 103 or more points in its last seven games. The Grizzlies just scored 123 points in their last game and are playing more up-tempo. There's a chance Marc Gasol doesn't play due to illness, but I still like this total to go Over based on how poorly the Knicks are playing defense and how well Memphis looked offensively in its last game with crisp passing and unselfish play. The Over has cashed 12 of the last 16 times the Knicks have visited the Grizzlies.
01-16-18	Wolves v. Magic +8		102-108	Win	100	8 h 14 m	Show
Fresh off their first 5-0 homestand since 2001, the Timberwolves get ready to face a big road test against the Rockets on Thursday. But first Minnesota must play at Orlando today. It's going to be difficult for the talented - and youthful - Timberwolves to take the Magic serious. Orlando has lost seven in a row. I smell a dangerous situation for the Timberwolves here. I suspect Minnesota is going to be too overconfident for this game. Orlando is more competitive now that its two leading scorers, Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier, are healthy. The Magic have lost by seven points or fewer in five of their last seven defeats. The Magic have had three full days to get ready for this matchup having last played on Friday. Minnesota is a sparkling 23-6 versus Western Conference foes. However, the Timberwolves are a perplexing 6-10 against Eastern Conference teams. They have a bad history, too, at Orlando losing eight of the past nine times there. The Magic have covered eight of the last 10 games against the Timberwolves. Minnesota won by just six when they hosted the Magic earlier this season.
01-15-18	Lakers v. Grizzlies -138	Top	114-123	Win	100	8 h 49 m	Show
The Lakers are fat and happy after opening their road trip with an overtime victory against the Mavericks this past Saturday. The Grizzlies have been playing better. They are are 3-2 in their five home games, but off an 87-78 road loss to Denver. That game was on Friday and ended the Grizzlies' string of six straight games of scoring triple-digits. The Grizzlies were idle during the weekend and should be ready for this early-start MLK Day matchup. Memphis is the stronger defensive club. The Grizzlies have defeated the Lakers the past six times at home. The Lakers are playing for the fourth time in seven days. They won't be helped by an earlier start time than normal for them. LA also is banged-up as both Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram are questionable.
01-15-18	Knicks v. Nets UNDER 213		119-104	Loss	-110	3 h 53 m	Show
Both teams carry a high fatigue rating that isn't going to be helped playing at this early start time. That means tired jump shooters. The Knicks are playing for the third time in four days, including going into overtime on Sunday. Kristaps Porzingis logged nearly 44 minutes yesterday. The Nets also are playing for the third time in four days. The Nets have gone Under in seven of their last eight games. This is a rivalry game, too, so the defensive intensity should be up.
01-15-18	Hornets v. Pistons -150		118-107	Loss	-150	4 h 27 m	Show
Charlotte isn't a good road team. The Hornets have lost 13 of their 18 away contests. Charlotte is 2-11 versus .500 or better clubs when playing on the road. The Pistons are 13-5 at home. Detroit is in a strong scheduling advantage here since this is an early start because of Martin Luther King Day. The Hornets ran out of gas on Saturday night after also playing on Friday. Now they're playing a very early Monday game making this their third game in four days.
01-15-18	Hornets v. Pistons UNDER 205		118-107	Loss	-105	4 h 26 m	Show
Charlotte is averaging just 95 points in its last two games. The Hornets face a severe fatigue factor here playing for the third time in four days, which is made worse by this being a very early daytime start because of Martin Luther King Day. So the Hornets are not going to have interest in running and their perimeter game could be off because of tired legs. This likely means a lot of standing around on offense watching Dwight Howard hog the ball inside and miss free throws. He's shooting less than 53 percent from the foul line. The Pistons rank fifth defensively. Detroit has held its past four opponents at home to an average of 91 points per game. The teams met early in the season and the Pistons beat the Hornets, 102-90, at home.
01-14-18	Pacers v. Suns +4		120-97	Loss	-105	13 h 30 m	Show
Granted, asking the Suns to cover a short number carries a certain risk. Phoenix has some young talent, but is in clear rebuild mode. Still, the spot, situation and history set up well for the Suns to stay close - if not pull the outright upset. The Pacers won't have center Myles Turner, their best big man and second-best player next to Victor Oladipo. He'll miss a third straight game due to an elbow injury. Indiana takes to the road for the first time in 11 days fat and happy after overcoming a 22-point deficit to defeat the Cavaliers, 97-95, on Friday night. The Pacers have lost their last three away matchups falling by a combined 57 points to the Bucks, Bulls and Pistons. This marks only the Pacers' third game versus a Western Conference opponent since Dec. 14. Indiana lost to Dallas by four points at home and were blown out by Minnesota at home by 17 points the past two times it faced a Western Conference foe. The last time Indiana played a road game against a Western Conference team was way back on November 29. The Suns aren't as good as the Timberwolves and Mavericks. But they are home where they have covered five of the last six times against the Pacers. All together, the Suns have covered 11 of the last 13 times versus the Pacers. Phoenix also should be motivated after a 112-95 home loss to Houston this past Friday. The Suns were short-handed in the backcourt, but expect to have back point guard Isaiah Canaan and swingman Josh Jackson. The return of Canaan frees up rising superstar Devin Booker to play other positions besides point guard setting up favorable matchups. The Suns have responded well following a blowout home loss covering 72 percent of the time in their next game during the past 27 instances. They also are 6-1-2 ATS the past nine times after not covering the spread in their previous game.
01-13-18	Thunder -120 v. Hornets		101-91	Win	100	12 h 5 m	Show
The Thunder are in stop-the-pain mode losing three in a row. The latest loss was to Minnesota, which has emerged as an up-and-coming power. Now the Thunder drop down in class facing a non-playoff Eastern Conference team, Charlotte. Oklahoma City holds a huge talent edge here. The Thunder have been idle since Wednesday while the Hornets beat Utah, 99-88, last night. The Jazz weren't sharp after upsetting the Wizards as a 7 1/2-point 'dog in their previous game. The last time Charlotte played without rest was Dec. 27 at Golden State. The Hornets lost that game by 25 points to the Warriors. The Thunder have covered 10 of their last 14 times when playing on two days rest.
01-13-18	Lakers v. Mavs UNDER 216		107-101	Win	100	9 h 22 m	Show
Not only is this the Lakers' first road game in 12 days, but it is an extremely early start at 11 a.m. Pacific time. That's a major plus for the Under. So is the way the Lakers have been playing defense. LA held the Kings to 86 points on Tuesday in a 99-86 victory. The Lakers followed that up by defeating the Spurs, 93-81, on Thursday. The Spurs had a number of starters out, but do possess excellent depth. The Lakers held San Antonio to 40.8 percent shooting from the floor while forcing 20 turnovers. Dallas ranks 10th in the league defensively holding foes to 104.4 points per game. The Mavericks held the Magic and Knicks to 100 and 99 points, respectively, during their last two home games. This matchup is going to be heavily influenced by a pair of rookie point guards, Lonzo Ball and Dennis Smith Jr. Ball is shooting 35.8 percent from the field. Smith has made just 39.4 percent of his field goals.
01-12-18	Nets +3.5 v. Hawks	Top	110-105	Win	100	15 h 33 m	Show
Should the worst team in the NBA be laying points, especially this many, to any opponent? My answer is no. Brooklyn is four games better than Atlanta in the standings. It's not a fluke. The Nets are the better team. The spot is ripe, too, for the Nets to defeat the Hawks. Atlanta is returning home following a five-game, nine day road swing fat and happy after upsetting the Nuggets in Denver two nights ago. Focus could be a real problem for the youthful, rebuiilding Hawks especially knowing nine of their next 10 games will be played at Philips Arena their home base. By contrast, the Nets should be extremely fired-up after being embarrassed at home by the Pistons, 114-80, Wednesday night. That was the Nets' worst home loss of the season. Brooklyn had been below-the-radar prior to that loss having lost by only one point in overtime to the Raptors in their previous game and coming within five points or fewer during their past five games before that. The Nets have the second-best ATS mark in the league at 25-16, including covering six in a row until the Detroit debacle. The Nets have covered 73 percent of their last 15 away games, too. Brookly still aspires to be a playoff team, at this point, being six games out of the final playoff spot in the East. The Hawks have no such aspirations.
01-11-18	Clippers v. Kings +1.5		121-115	Loss	-104	10 h 0 m	Show
Take away Blake Griffin, Patrick Beverley, Danilo Gallinari, Austin Rivers and Milos Teodosic and the Clippers shouldn't be a road favorite against the Kings especially carrying a heavy fatigue like they do for this matchup. The Clippers are playing for the fourth time in six days, third time in five days and on back-to-back nights. They are in a huge letdown spot after stunning the Warriors, 125-106, at Golden State last night. Lou Williams was the hero for the Clippers against the Warriors scoring 50 points. Williams is having a fantastic season. He's the leading candidate for Sixth Man of the Year honors. Williams, however, has a history of not being nearly as effective when his minutes go up. Williams has logged 76 minutes in his past two games spanning the past three days. It wouldn't shock me if his shooting was off today - and the Clippers have no other consistent scorers to rely on with their many injuries. The Kings are more respectable with De'Aaron Fox back in the lineup. Fox scored 18 points and dished off seven assists when the Kings defeated the Nuggets by eight points at home three games ago. The Clippers and Kings meet again Saturday at Staples Center so the Kings definitely want to get the home victory.
01-11-18	Celtics -130 v. 76ers		114-103	Win	100	13 h 4 m	Show
I'm happily surprised to see this line open so low. Boston definitely is the superior team. The Celtics have proven that during the first two meetings this season beating the 76ers by an average of 10.5 points in sweeping both games one of which was played in Philadelphia. Both teams are in good form. But the Celtics have won six in a row. Boston leads the NBA in scoring defense and defensive field goal percentage. The Celtics have the top point spread mark in the NBA at 26-15-2, will have the best player on the court in Kyrie Irving and the better coach, Brad Stevens. Al Horford missed Boston's last game with a knee injury, but is expected to play while the 76ers will be mimus backup center Amir Johnson due to illness.
01-10-18	Magic +10.5 v. Bucks		103-110	Win	100	17 h 13 m	Show
I understand it's difficult to get behind Orlando, which has lost 14 of its last 15 and is 3-12 ATS during this span. I will point out the Magic led both the Cavaliers and Mavericks at halftime during their last two games and that the Magic have their two best scorers, Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier, healthy again. But much of this handicap is a fade on the Bucks. Only twice since December - a span of 17 games - have the Bucks won by double-digits. Milwaukee has failed to cover during its past seven games versus opponents with a losing record. The Bucks also host Golden State on Friday in their next game. Milwaukee then goes on the road to take on the Heat and Wizards Sunday and Monday. So the backdoor should swing wide open for the Magic in case the Bucks do build up a lead. There would be no reason for Jason Kidd to play his starters big minutes here especially super star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been dealing with sore knees and even recently sat out a game.
01-10-18	Mavs v. Hornets -6.5	Top	115-111	Loss	-110	16 h 17 m	Show
Charlotte is poised to make a move. The Hornets are coming off a 3-1 West Coast trip highlighted by a victory against the Warriors. Charlotte is feeling confident and rested having last played on Friday. The Hornets are just 15-23, but they also have played the toughest schedule in the NBA in terms of opponent's winning percentage. Charlotte's schedule lightens up starting here. Dallas is playing for the fifth time in eight days and without rest. The Mavericks just defeated the Magic, 114-99, at home last night. Dallas has beaten some good teams - Spurs, Wizards, Raptors, Bucks and Thunder - but is 9-20 the past 29 times when facing opponents with a losing record, including 4-11 during the last 15 instances. The Hornets average 105 points a game. Dallas is 3-20 when giving up triple-digits. The Mavericks are vulnerable to Dwight Howard being one of the worst rebounding teams in the league. Howard ranks fourth in the league in rebounding.
01-09-18	Heat v. Raptors -3.5		90-89	Loss	-110	4 h 45 m	Show
The Raptors have won five in a row averaging 121.8 points per game during this span. Toronto has been dominant at home with a 14-1 record. Yet the line is much shorter than normal because Kyle Lowry is out. I believe the marketplace has overreacted to this injury. The Raptors are much better than the Heat. They've defeated the Heat the past five times in Toronto, too. DeMar DeRozan, who is on fire, is the Raptors' key player not Lowry. Miami has a couple of injuries, too, with Dion Waiters and Justise Winslow both out.
01-08-18	Bucks v. Pacers OVER 214		96-109	Loss	-105	2 h 45 m	Show
The Bucks are averaging 117.2 points during their last four games, including putting up 122 points on these same Pacers this past Wednesday in a 122-101 victory. The Pacers didn't have their leading scorer, Victor Oladipo, for that game. Oladipo returned from injury on Saturday and the Pacers scored 125 points in burying the Bulls. Both teams have above average offenses and Oladipo makes the Pacers far more dangerous on offense. It's also short revenge for the Pacers. The Bucks have been a huge Over team going above the total 18-7-1 in their last 26 games.
01-07-18	Hawks v. Lakers -3.5		113-132	Win	100	12 h 12 m	Show
Luke Walton is feeling heat as the Lakers have lost nine in a row. Clearly, it's stop-the-pain mode in LA. Luckily, the Lakers have the perfect opponent to do just that as they host the Hawks. Atlanta is in total rebuild mode. The Hawks are at their worst on the road where their record is 3-17. The Hawks' last away victory occurred on Dec. 2 against the Nets. The Lakers are back to full strength with Lonzo Ball and Brook Lopez healthy. They hold a talent edge on the Hawks. Atlanta has one good player, Dennis Schroder, and he's in a shooting slump. Schroder is 12-for-31 in his last two games from the floor. He has shot much worse on the road this season at 41.2 percent from the field.
01-06-18	Pelicans v. Wolves -125		98-116	Win	100	14 h 12 m	Show
Minnesota is back from a bad East Coast trip that resulted in a 98-97 loss to the Nets on Wednesday and 91-84 defeat to the Celtics last night. Now the Timberwolves return home in stop-the-pain mode. They haven't lost three games in a row all season. Minnesota is 11-1 at Target Center this season and 20-6 versus Western Conference foes. The Timberwolves are 2-0 versus the Pelicans this season winning both times in New Orleans, 104-98, on Nov. 1 and 120-102 on Nov. 29. Karl-Anthony Towns helps off-set the inside dominance of DeMarcus Couins and Anthony Davis, while Jimmy Butler gives the Timberwolves the best non-big man on the floor. Butler is having another All-Star caliber season scoring 20 or more points in nine of his last 10 games. The Pelicans have played just one winning opponent during their past six games and that was Miami.
01-06-18	Pelicans v. Wolves OVER 218		98-116	Loss	-110	14 h 3 m	Show
The Pelicans are well rested and should have lots of energy. The Timberwolves are not strong defensively inside so Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins should be able to score plenty. The Pelicans score the fourth-most points per game in the NBA, but are 28th defensively. Minnesota ranks seventh in scoring. The Timberwolves have scored at least 106 points in 10 of their last 13 games. Jimmy Butler is riding a hot streak of scoring 20 or more points in nine of his last 10 games. The Timberwolves are stepping way down in defensive class after just playing the Celtics.
01-05-18	Wizards v. Grizzlies OVER 206	Top	102-100	Loss	-108	14 h 8 m	Show
The rankings show Memphis to be 29th in scoring. But the rankings don't reflect current form. The Grizzlies are much improved offensively. Sparked by a great season from Tyreke Evans, the Grizzlies are averaging 111.3 points in their last six games. Evans has scored at least 20 points in eight of the past 10 games. This is a rare nationally televised game for the Grizzlies so they should be motivated to put on a show. The Wizards are finally at full strength with John Wall and Otto Porter back to being 100 percent. They've helped Washington to win three in a row. The Wizards are averaging 118.7 points during their win streak. Going back to their last six games, the Wizards are averaging 116 points. This also marks Washington's lone road matchup during a nine-game span. The Wizards have surrendered an average of 116.6 points in their last three road contests.
01-04-18	Thunder -120 v. Clippers	Top	127-117	Win	100	14 h 32 m	Show
The Thunder have covered in four of their last five games against the Clippers, including beating them, 120-111, at home on Nov. 10. Oklahoma City has picked up its play winning 13 of 18 since December as Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony are all better in sync with each other now. The Thunder played one of their best games in beating the Lakers, 133-96, last night at Staples Center. That's the venue for this matchup so no travel is involved for the Thunder. The Clippers are playing better, too, but have just met five straight sub .500 teams, including the 12-26 Grizzlies twice. This is a step up in class for the Clippers and they still have key injuries with Patrick Beverley and Danilo Gallinari out and Austin Rivers questionable.
01-04-18	Warriors -4 v. Rockets		124-114	Win	100	11 h 41 m	Show
Until proven otherwise, I see the world champion Warriors as the best team in basketball. When the Warriors really want to win, they win. That should be the case here with the Warriors facing their strongest challenger in the Western Conference. I'd like the Rockets' chances far more if they had James Harden. But they don't. He's out with a hamstring injury. The Rockets didn't need him in burying the Magic, 116-98, at Orlando last night. I can't see the Rockets, though, hanging real close to the Warriors without Harden. Stephen Curry is back for the Warriors and he's hot making 24 of 36 shots from the field in two games since returning to the lineup after being out for 11 games. The Warriors also were in action last night, beating the Mavericks, 125-122. The Warriors have the shorter trip to Houston than the Rockets do coming from central Florida. Golden State also has the better bench. Until defeating the hapless Magic and Lakers, Houston had dropped five in a row. This will be just their second game of the season without Harden, who leads the NBA in scoring and is third in assists. Golden State has won its last eight road games and is 11-2 versus the Rockets during its past 13 regular-season meetings, including beating the Rockets six consecutive times at Toyota Center.
01-03-18	Rockets v. Magic UNDER 221	Top	116-98	Win	100	13 h 33 m	Show
This will be the Rockets' first game this season without James Harden. There hasn't been a more devastating offensive player in the NBA than Harden, who is averaging a league-best 32.3 points and 9.1 assists. There will be an adjustment period for Houston as Harden probably is going to miss a couple of weeks after suffering a hamstring injury this past Sunday against the Lakers. Chris Paul and Clint Capela have returned from their injuries. But they've only been back for a short time so there's a get-in-sync factor that is even more pronounced now that Harden is sidelined. Orlando is a below average offensive team that was just held to 95 points by the Nets this past Monday. Brooklyn ranks 26th defensively. If you discount the 111 points the Magic put up on banged-up Miami, Orlando is averaging 96.6 points in its last six games.
01-02-18	Hawks v. Suns -125	Top	103-104	Win	100	13 h 20 m	Show
The Hawks have the worst record in the NBA and it's because they are 3-15 on the road. Atlanta is 1-10 in its last 11 away games with the lone victory during this time frame occurring versus the Nets. I don't think it's too much ask of the Suns to defeat the Hawks at home. The Suns have covered four of the last five at home against Atlanta and are playing well winning five of their last eight games. The Suns are a much better team with Devin Booker back in the lineup. Booker is ninth in the league in scoring at 24.9 points per game. It's not just his scoring, but his play-making and ability to create space for his teammates that make him so valuable. It helps that TJ Warren and Marquese Criss also have been playing well for Phoenix and that Tyler Ulis has solidified the point guard spot. The Hawks have an outstanding point guard in Dennis Schroeder. But the Hawks have an unimpressive front line that Tyson Chandler and Greg Monroe can do well against. The Hawks carry a fatigue rating, too, playing for the third time in five days and fourth in seven days.
12-31-17	Hornets v. Clippers -2.5		98-106	Win	100	7 h 56 m	Show
The Clippers are the superior team with Blake Griffin back and are home. LA is on a 9-1-1 against the spread run. The Hornets are coming off a shocking upset of the Warriors at Golden State just two days ago. Even with that victory, the Hornets are just 5-13 in their past 18 games. Dwight Howard has played well for Charlotte, but he won't do much against defensive whiz DeAndre Jordan.
12-30-17	Cavs -3.5 v. Jazz		101-104	Loss	-112	10 h 24 m	Show
The Cavaliers are in stop-the-pain mode off consecutive road losses to the Warriors and then Kings. Cleveland last played on Wednesday and won't play again until Tuesday so this spots sets up well for the Cavaliers. The Jazz have no defensive stoppers to face LeBron James. Utah remains without Rudy Gobbert, their top inside scoring threat and one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. Utah has lost three in a row, losing by an average of 21 points a game during this span. The Jazz aren't close to being in the Cavaliers' class without Gobert.
12-29-17	Hornets v. Warriors -11		111-100	Loss	-106	15 h 32 m	Show
The Warriors can name their score here. The question is can they name it by a wide enough margin to cover this double-digit spread? I believe they can. They certainly did when the two teams met on Dec. 6 in Charlotte. The Warriors rolled past the Hornets, 101-87. Golden State achieved that win minus Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Curry won't be back for this game. But Green is healthy and Golden State is home this time. The Warriors are 9-1 in the 10 games Curry has missed. They've held six of their last 10 foes to fewer than 100 points. The Hornets are a below average defensive club that may not even be good enough to sneak into the Eastern Conference playoffs. They have lost 13 of their last 17 games. Golden State leads the NBA in scoring and field goal percentage. Since losing to the Warriors, the Hornets have faced three other strong teams - Boston, Toronto and Houston. Charlotte dropped all three of those games by double-digits with the average loss being 13.6 points. Charlotte has been terrible on the road going 2-12 SU, 3-8-3 ATS. The Warriors host Memphis on Saturday, but after that game won't play again until Wednesday. So they should be playing hard.
12-29-17	Rockets v. Wizards UNDER 220.5		103-121	Loss	-105	8 h 41 m	Show
I'm not anticipating Chris Paul to play, but if he does I still like this game to go Under. Paul would be rusty having missed the last three games. He likely wouldn't play big minutes either. The spot sets up for a hard-nose, defensive battle with both teams coming off losses. The Rockets blew a huge lead in losing 99-98 at Boston last night. Houston's four best players all logged more than 38 minutes in that game. The Under has cashed six of the last seven times the Rockets have played without rest. No Paul obviously would be good for the Under, too. Houston has another key injury. Center Clint Capela is out. He leads the NBA in field goal percentage. The Rockets lack an inside game minus Capela. I see reduced minutes for James Harden, Ryan Anderson, Eric Gordon and Trevor Ariza tonight with newly-signed veteran swingman Gerald Green picking up more minutes. Green made his Rockets debut last night going scoreless in 11 minutes. He's a big offensive downgrade from any of those four players. The Wizards still are mad from an embarrassing 113-99 road loss to the Hawks two nights ago. The Wizards weren't happy with their defense nor their lack of ball movement. I see the Wizards tightening their defense while also taking their time on offense to get the best shot rather than play up-tempo. The Under has cashed 13 of the last 17 times the Wizards have played on one day's rest. Washington is an underrated defensive club at home. The Wizards have yielded just 97.3 points per game during their last six games at Verizon Center.
12-28-17	Wolves v. Bucks OVER 212.5		96-102	Loss	-105	12 h 36 m	Show
I'm going to roll with the tide and play this matchup to go Over. The Bucks have been a monster Over team going 14-2-1 above the number in their last 17 games. Milwaukee has reached triple digits in each of its last 16 games and is averaging 110.4 points during its last nine games. That shouldn't change here as the Bucks are off an embarrassing 115-106 home loss to the Bulls two nights ago and catch the Timberwolves in action for the third time in four days and second in two nights having nipped the Nuggets, 128-125 in overtime, last night. The Timberwolves rank last in the league in defensive field goal percentage. The Bucks have the perimeter shooters to take full advantage. Minnesota is averaging 113.5 points in its last seven games. The Timberwolves have gone Over in seven of their past eight games, including the last five. Jimmy Butler has been on fire and Karl-Anthony Towns could dominate against a weak rebounding Bucks front line. The Timberwolves may not have starting point guard Jeff Teague. But Tyus Jones is one of the more underrated backup point guards in the league. He's better than an 83 percent foul shooter and is second on the Timberwolves in 3-point shooting percentage.
12-27-17	Knicks +1.5 v. Bulls		87-92	Loss	-110	15 h 43 m	Show
I understand the Bulls are far removed from the 3-20 team that opened the season. I also understand the Knicks are not a good road team, just 2-10. Still, I'm not buying the Bulls opening a favorite in this matchup. The Bulls carry a high fatigue rating. This marks their fifth game in eight days and second in two nights following a highly satisfying road victory against the Bucks last night. Chicago has lost five of six times this season when playing without rest, losing by an average of nearly 13 points per game. The Knicks play five of their next six games on the road, including facing the Spurs in San Antonio on Thursday. New York is coming off a Christmas Day home loss to the 76ers and will be placing a lot of emphasis on winning this game, while Chicago is fat and happy. This also is a big revenge spot for the Knicks. They lost 104-102 to the Bulls at United Center on Dec. 9. The Bulls were blistering hot in that game making 51.2 percent of their shots from the floor. Chicago also went to the free throw line 23 times to just nine times for the Knicks.
12-27-17	Celtics -115 v. Hornets	Top	102-91	Win	100	14 h 44 m	Show
The Celtics are the much better team and have a huge coaching edge with Brad Stevens against Hornets interim coach Stephen Silas. Charlotte is 4-8 in its last 12 games. The Hornets really miss big man Cody Zeller, who is out following knee surgery. Charlotte is 2-6 SU and ATS in its last eight home contests. The Celtics are coming off a home loss to the Wizards on Christmas Day and host the Rockets Thursday. So they are in real danger of being saddled with a three-game losing streak if they lose this matchup. Boston has dominated this series under Stevens winning nine of the past 10 times, including the last five.
12-26-17	Bulls v. Bucks OVER 212		115-106	Win	100	6 h 44 m	Show
The Bulls are playing far better on offense with the emergence of Kris Dunn at point guard. They have scored at least 103 points in eight of their last nine games. If you discount their last game, a 92-point road performance against the No. 2 defensive ranked Celtics, the Bulls have averaged 114 points in their last four games. The Bucks have reached triple digits in their last 15 games. They are averaging 111 points per game in their last eight games. The Over is 13-2-1 in Milwaukee's last 16 games. The teams just met 11 days ago at Bradley Center and there were 224 points scored in Chicago's 115-109 upset win.
12-26-17	Pacers v. Pistons -120	Top	83-107	Win	100	10 h 27 m	Show
The Pistons have defeated the Pacers two of three times this season with the latest coming 11 days ago at Indiana, 104-98. A key to the Pistons beating the Pacers is they can control blossoming star Victor Oladipo, who is shooting just 35.5 percent from the field versus Detroit this season. Even though Avery Bradley remains out, the Pistons have other defensive-minded players such as Reggie Bullock and Anthony Tolliver. Both teams have been playing well, but Indiana has met inferior competition in three of its last four games drawing the Hawks and Nets twice. The Pistons enjoy playing in their new home, Little Caesars Arena. It's not too much to ask of them to beat the Pacers at home.
12-25-17	Wizards v. Celtics UNDER 206.5		111-103	Loss	-103	9 h 2 m	Show
Peace on earth, goodwill to men. Those sentiments don't hold when the Wizards and Celtics get together. This is their first matchup since their contentious Eastern Conference semifinal playoff series that went seven games. There's going to be a lot of intensity in this game. It's a day game, too. These are helpful factors to the Under. It's also a huge Under factor, too, that both teams are strong defensively. Boston ranks second in the NBA in scoring defense and defensive field goal percentage. Part of this is the Celtics' ranking in the bottom-five in tempo. The Celtics aren't going to get in a track meet against John Wall. Washington has scored fewer than 101 points in five of its last seven games. It's easy to think of Wall and his excellent backcourt mate, Bradley Beal, when talking about the Wizards. But Washington is better defensively than perceived. The Wizards rank No. 1 in 3-point defensive percentage and are eighth in defensive field goal percentage. During their last seven games, the Wizards have ranked in the top-five in defensvie efficiency. The Under has been a sneaky good play in Wizards games covering 73 percent of the time during their past 26 games.
12-23-17	Mavs -125 v. Hawks	Top	107-112	Loss	-125	7 h 13 m	Show
The Hawks have been playing terrible defense yielding triple-digits in 14 of their last 15 games. Atlanta also isn't a good home team going 4-11 this season at Philips Arena and holding a losing ATS home mark. Dallas has picked up its game going 10-4-1 ATS in its last 15 games. The Hawks are one of the three worst teams in the NBA. Their lack of talent is even more exposed when playing Western Conference foes where they are 2-7 ATS. This is a tough spot, too, for Atlanta following a tough 120-117 road loss to Oklahoma City Friday night. The Hawks gave a great effort in that game. It's an added plus for the Mavericks if the Hawks are going to missing point guard Dennis Schroder for a second straight game. Dallas is in revenge mode, too, for a 117-111 home loss suffered to the Hawks back on Oct. 18 when it wasn't playing as well.
12-22-17	Knicks v. Pistons -6		101-104	Loss	-105	8 h 13 m	Show
The Knicks are in a major letdown spot after upsetting the Celtics, 102-93, at home last night. Now the Knicks hit the road where they have been terrible. New York is 2-9 this season away from Madison Square Garden, 3-8 ATS. Kristaps Porzingis is far and away New York's best player. But he hasn't been 100 percent due to a knee injury. The Pistons are in bounce-back mode after a bad 110-93 road loss to the Mavericks on Wednesday. Detroit had won three in a row prior to that. The Pistons are tough in their new Little Caesar Arena going 9-5 there with a winning point spread mark.
12-21-17	Bulls +11 v. Cavs		112-115	Win	100	12 h 36 m	Show
Maybe the Cavaliers cover a rare home game and beat the spread when laying double-digits for the first time this season. But I have to take the Bulls believing this isn't going to happen. Sparked by the return of Nikola Mirotic and the emergence of Kris Dunn as a legitmate NBA point guard, the Bulls have put their rebuild plans on hold winning and covering seven in a row. Chicago should be motivated to test itself going against LeBron James and Cleveland in a double-revenge spot. The Bulls were playing much worse when they lost to the Cavaliers, 119-112, in the third game of the season during their last visit to Cleveland. The Cavaliers are 13-4 at home, but a mind-boggling 2-15 ATS. They are 0-11 ATS when laying double-digits. Only four times in their 32 games this season have the Cavaliers won by 12 or more points. Cleveland has a monster look-ahead game, too, as following this matchup the Cavaliers take off for the West Coast. The marquee matchup of the season goes Sunday with the Cavaliers meeting the Warriors. The Bulls did play last night. But no Chicago starter even reached the 29-minute mark in the Bulls' 112-94 home win against Orlando.
12-20-17	Magic +5 v. Bulls		94-112	Loss	-110	9 h 35 m	Show
It's easy to do a double-take when looking at this spread. But it's legitimate. Chicago has won six in a row. The Bulls actually are in position to overlook the Magic with upcoming marquee road matchups against the Cavaliers, Celtics and Bucks. Orlando looks at Chicago and sees how its season can turn around, too. The Magic have lost five in a row, but are getting healthier. They have forward Jonathan Isaac, one of their best defensive players, back and could get back leading scorer Evan Fournier. He's questionable along with Arron Affalo. Mario Hezonija stepped up in their absence erupting for 28 points in a 114-110 road loss to the Pistons - a team better than the Bulls - this past Sunday. The Magic have been idle since losing to the Pistons. Orlando has revenge motivation for 105-83 home loss suffered to the Bulls last month when down its two top point guards. Both are back for Orlando. Orlando has covered in seven of its last 10 visits to Chicago.
12-20-17	Kings v. Nets -5		104-99	Loss	-110	12 h 59 m	Show
When is it ever good to lay a mid-size number with the Nets? Now. The spot, situation and history set up a Brooklyn play. The Kings stunned the 76ers last night rallying from 16 points down to win, 101-95, as 8 1/2-point road 'dogs. Now the Kings have to turn around to play the win-starved Nets at the conclusion of their four-game, seven day road trip. Bad timing for them. Sacramento could be short-handed, too, in the backcourt. George Hill missed last night's game due to illness and good-looking rookie De'Aaron Fox reinjured his thigh against the 76ers. The Nets are in stop-the-pain mode with a three-game losing streak. Before then, they had won five of eight. Brooklyn has a winning spread mark when favored. The Nets also are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games versus Western Conference foes. Sacramento happens to be 4-10-2 ATS versus Eastern Conference opponents even with that victory against the 76ers, who were minus Joel Embiid. The Kings are 5-13 on the road this season and had lost seven straight road games to the Nets before winning last season. Brooklyn is 6-1 ATS in its last seven games against Sacramento.
12-19-17	Cavs v. Bucks OVER 215		116-119	Win	100	3 h 41 m	Show
LeBron James is having an MVP-type season and Cleveland has reached triple digits in 24 straight games. The Bucks are an average defensive team and rank last in 3-point defense. Milwaukee has reached triple-digits in its last 12 games. The Bucks have scored 108 or more points during each of their last five games. The Over is 10-1-1 in the Bucks' last 12 games. The teams have met twice this season. Both games went Over the total. That's in keeping with the trend in this series, which has seen the Over cover 22 of the last 29 times. Note the short spread, too, in this game. So there's an increased chance of overtime potentially occurring.
12-18-17	Jazz v. Rockets OVER 216	Top	99-120	Win	100	4 h 60 m	Show
The Rockets have the top offense in the NBA right now. Chris Paul has made James Harden even more dangerous if that's possible. Harden is leading the NBA in scoring at 31.5 points a game. The Rockets have scored at least 115 points in nine of their last 11 games. The Jazz are far more vulnerable on defense without Rudy Gobert, their star center and rim protector. The Jazz have become more up-tempo and offensive-minded minus Gobert. They have scored triple digits in each of their last five games and 11 of their last 12 games. Derrick Favors, the Jazz's second-best big man, is out, too. So there should be a lot of small ball in this matchup.
12-15-17	Nets +11 v. Raptors	Top	87-120	Loss	-105	9 h 43 m	Show
The Nets are a scrappy bunch and very underrated by the oddsmaker. Brooklyn has greatly improved its defense to the point where until last night, the Nets ranked No. 1 in defensive efficiency during their past seven games. Brooklyn couldn't hit its 3-pointers and lost, 111-104, at home to the Knicks Thursday night. The Nets were short favorites in that game. They are much better in an underdog role where they have covered nine of the last 10 times. Despite that defeat, the Nets still have a winning record in their last nine games. The Nets found, if not a star, a very reliable player in that loss to the Knicks. Point guard Spencer Dinwiddie put up a career-best 26 points to go with seven rebounds and seven assists. He is averaging 15.4 points per game since replacing injured D'Angelo Russell. This isn't a good spot for Toronto. The Raptors just concluded a four-game, six-day road trip on Wednesday night beating the Suns, 115-109. The Raptors are 2-4 ATS in their last six games and are in a flat spot playing in their first home game in 10 days.
12-15-17	Blazers v. Magic UNDER 210		95-88	Win	100	3 h 7 m	Show
Portland is a top-six defensive team while the Magic's scoring is greatly reduced with their two leading scorers still out of action as both Evan Fouriner and Aaron Gordon are sidelined by injuries. The Magic haven't broken 95 points in three of their last five games. Portland is a huge Under team. The under is 14-4-1 in its last 19 games.
12-14-17	Knicks v. Nets -120		111-104	Loss	-120	11 h 18 m	Show
The Nets don't get the media attention the Knicks do. They don't have any stars either. But Brooklyn has been playing good ball winning five of its eight games. The Nets have improved their defense by 10 points per game during this span holding opponents to 100.9 points in their last eight games. Brooklyn is a respectable 5-6 at home, covering seven of its last 11 games at Barclays Center. The Nets have defeated the Thunder and Wizards during two of their past three home contests. The Knicks have an NBA-low one road victory in nine away matchups. They are 2-7 ATS away from Madison Square Garden. The Nets take this rivalry more serious than the Knicks and also have revenge motivation for a 107-86 road loss on Oct. 27. There should be a buzz to this game, too, for the Nets as Jahlil Okafor should be making his Brooklyn debut.
12-14-17	Pistons -4 v. Hawks		105-91	Win	100	7 h 2 m	Show
The Pistons are in circle-the-wagons mode and can take their frustrations out of the hapless Hawks. Atlanta is one of the four-worst teams in the NBA at 6-21, including 3-9 at home. Detroit should exploit the Hawks' weak defense that ranks 26th in scoring and 28th in field goal percentage. Opponents have hit 50 percent of their field goals during the past five games against the Hawks. Atlanta is giving up an average of 113 points per game during this span.
12-13-17	Raptors v. Suns UNDER 220.5		115-109	Loss	-107	9 h 23 m	Show
The Suns aren't the same high-scoring team without their leading scorer and best player, Devin Booker. He's been out the last three games and the Suns have averaged 97.3 points in those contests, going Under all three times. Phoenix just lost 99-92 on the road to the Kings last night. Toronto is playing its fourth road game in six days. So there is a fatigue element on both teams, which should mean a slower pace.
12-13-17	Nuggets v. Celtics -6.5		118-124	Loss	-103	8 h 51 m	Show
I want the Celtics going for me here after they suffered their worst and most embarrassing loss of the season in their last game. That was a 100-85 road defeat to the Bulls two nights ago. The Celtics didn't have Kyrie Irving in that game. Irving is expected to play here. Boston won't have Al Horford, but Denver is missing its two best players, big men Paul Millsap and Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets are a bit fat and happy after upsetting the Pistons, 103-84, last night. Even with that victory, the Nuggets are just 5-10 SU, 4-11 ATS on the road this season. Denver carries a high fatigue rating, too, as this concludes their six-game, 10-day road swing.
12-12-17	Wizards -145 v. Nets		98-103	Loss	-145	13 h 2 m	Show
The Wizards aren't going to have John Wall back yet, but they still are good enough to beat the Nets. Washington will have the three best players on the court in Bradley Beal, Otto Porter and Marcin Gortat. Not only is this Brooklyn's first game back after playing a pair of games in Mexico City, but its underrated chemistry has changed. The Nets will be breaking in newcomers Jahlil Okafor and Nik Stauskas and are without Sean Kilpatrick and Trevor Booker. Kilpatrick and Booker aren't great players, but they fit in well with the Nets and were popular teammates. There's going to be an adjustment period as the Nets learn how to best utlize Okafor, a talented big man who failed to mesh with the 76ers. Beal has stepped up well in Wall's eight-game absence averaging 23.3 points. The Wizards should be in angry mood after getting nipped, 113-112, by the Clippers on the road Saturday when Beal's game-winning basket was disallowed. Despite that non-cover, the Wizards still are 9-4 ATS during their past 13 away matchups. They have owned the Nets winning 12 of the past 14 meetings, including the last seven.
12-11-17	Raptors v. Clippers OVER 214.5	Top	91-96	Loss	-107	15 h 47 m	Show
The Raptors are comfortable in their new offense. Their recent scoring results prove this. Toronto is averaging 117 points in its last six games - all victories. Toronto has reached triple-digits in 12 straight games while scoring 112 or more in five of its past six games. DeMar DeRozan is the Raptors' main threat and he's hot averaging 25.4 points on 50 percent shooting from the floor in his last five games. DeRozan also is averaging 6.8 assists per game during this span. He'll be highly motivated to perform well being from Southeren California. The Clippers should contribute their share of points. Danilo Gallinari looked sharp in his second game back from injury scoring 25 points in a 113-112 home win against the Wizards this past Saturday. Austin Rivers has been playing well, too, averaging 23 points in his last three games. Lou Williams is a dangerous scorer when he has rest and the Clippers were idle yesterday. There's a chance the Clippers get back guard Milos Teodosic for this game. The Clippers have struggled defensively minus injured Blake Griffin and Patrick Beverley, allowing an average of 114.3 points per game during their last six games.
12-10-17	Raptors -8 v. Kings		102-87	Win	100	7 h 12 m	Show
The Raptors average 15 points more per game than the Kings. I consider the Raptors a "B" level team, while the Kings are in my "F" level with the Bulls, Suns and Hawks. The questions here are the Raptors' motivaiton level and how much of a home-court edge do the Kings have? Toronto should have strong incentive since Sacramento swept them last season. The Raptors are playing their best ball averaging 115 points during their past 11 games while going 5-0 during their past five games. DeMar DeRozan, Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka easily give Toronto the three best players on the court. Sacramento ranks last in scoring at 96.4 points a game. The Kings are returning home after a 116-109 upset road win against the Pelicans on Friday. This is the Kings' first home game following four consecutive road games. That trip began 10 days ago. So this isn't a good situational spot for the Kings, who actually could be in letdown mode, too, after surprising the Pelicans. It's another added plus for the Raptors if Kings center Willie Cauley-Stein has to miss a third consecutive game due to a bad back.
12-09-17	Rockets v. Blazers OVER 215.5		124-117	Win	100	5 h 48 m	Show
The Rockets are averaging 116.1 points in their last six games. That would rank No. 2 in the NBA if computed for the entire season. It's not a fluke. The Rockets' offense has picked up with Chris Paul back from injury. He's made James Harden even more dangerous. The Trail Blazers have a strong scoring backcourt themselves and will have lots of energy having been idle since Tuesday.
12-09-17	Magic v. Hawks -2		110-117	Win	100	10 h 59 m	Show
Atlanta is in short revenge after losing 110-106 to Orlando on the road this past Wednesday. The Hawks blew a nine-point fourth quarter lead and had several controversial calls go against them. Orlando forced overtime by scoring with three seconds left in regulation. The Hawks have been idle since while the Magic were beaten at home by the Nuggets, 103-89, last night. The Magic's offense looked terrible in that game minus injured Evan Fournier, their second-leading scorer and top 3-point marksman. Making it worse for the Magic are they lost leading scorer Aaron Gordon in that loss. He suffered a concussion. Neither he nor Fournier will play against the Hawks. Atlanta is one of the worst teams in the NBA. But Orlando is in free-fall losing 12 of its last 15 games. The Magic are short-handed with swingman Terrence Ross and Jonathan Isaac also out. Orlando is playing for the third time in four days and without rest. So the spot and situation set up well for the Hawks, who have covered four of their last six and are 11-3 in their last 14 home games versus Orlando.
12-09-17	Magic v. Hawks UNDER 210		110-117	Loss	-110	10 h 58 m	Show
Orlando is now down its top two scorers with Aaron Gordon suffering a concussion in the Magic's 103-89 loss to the Nuggets last night, a game which went Under the total by 26 points. The Magic already are without Evan Fournier, who is sidelined with an ankle injury. Fournier is the Magic's top perimeter shooter. His absence was felt very much last night on the offensive end. The Magic have a thin bench, too, with swingman Terrence Ross and Jonathan Isaac out. This marks the Magic's third game in four days and second in two nights. Considering the fatigue factor and multiple injuries, I expect the Magic to play at a slow pace. The Hawks have held their last two opponents to an average of 93 points during regulation. The Magic haven't been playing bad defense either holding foes to an average of 100.7 points per game in regulation during their last four games. Orlando hosted Atlanta this past Wednesday and the teams combined for just 192 points in regulation before Orlando won, 110-106 in overtime. Fournier and Gordon combined for 51 points in that game.
12-08-17	Celtics v. Spurs UNDER 197.5	Top	102-105	Loss	-106	12 h 4 m	Show
Not only are the Cetics and Spurs the top two defenses in the NBA, but they also play at a slow pace. Boston gives up the fewest points per game and ranks second in defensive field goal percentage. San Antonio yields the second-fewest points per game and ranks fourth in defensive rebounding. So I see this total as being too high. My opinion also is formed by the high caliber of coaches and the possible injury factor. I rate Gregg Popovich and Brad Stevens as the two best coaches in the NBA. They are going to treat this matchup like a chess game. Boston's rotation could get really stretched if Jaylen Brown and Marcus Morris both have to miss the game due to injuries. That would mean increased minutes for Terry Rozier, Marcus Smart and Daniel Theis, none of whom are noted for their offensive prowess. There is a chance the Spurs get back Kawhi Leonard, the best defensive player in the league, for this game.
12-08-17	Cavs -3 v. Pacers		102-106	Loss	-115	10 h 32 m	Show
The Cavaliers are gunning for a franchise-best 14th consecutive victory. I see them getting it here in a revenge spot. Indiana upset the Cavaliers, 124-107, as a 10-point road 'dog at the start of November. The Cavaliers were really struggling on defense back then ranking last. Now, during their 13-game game win streak, the Cavaliers have had the sixth-best defense. Cleveland has been strong on the road going 16-6-1 ATS in its past 23 away contests, including 8-4 this season. The Cavaliers also are going for a club-record eighth road win in a row. LeBron James is in the MVP discussion. He's the only player in the NBA to average 25 points, eight rebounds and eight assists per game. The Pacers are 14-11. All but four of their victories, though, have come against below .500 opponents. Cleveland has covered the past five times it has played against a winning foe. It's a plus for the Cavaliers if Tristan Thompson can return for this game after being out with a calf strain.
12-07-17	Rockets v. Jazz OVER 208		112-101	Win	100	21 h 14 m	Show
The Rockets always were offensive-inclined, but now with Chris Paul back full throttle they could be the highest scoring team in the NBA. Houston has scored 117 points or more in each of its last five games. What makes this Over work, though, is Utah also has been high scoring. The Jazz were averaging 115.5 points in their last six games - all victories - until running out of gas in their last game two nights ago against Oklahoma City. The Thunder is a very good defensive team. Still, the Jazz were leading 80-68 after three quarters before falling down due to fatigue. This will be Rudy Gobert's third game back since returning from injury. His presence as perhaps the best rim protector in the Western Conference do affect the dynamics of Utah. However, the Jazz transformed themselves into more of an up-tempo, offensive-minded team when Gobert was out. They had success at it, too. So they are not going to completely revert back to their half-court ways. Plus Gobert still is working his way back into playing shape. Donovan Mitchell is becoming a below-the-radar star averaging 29.3 points in his last four games. No team fires up more 3-pointers than the Rockets. They are a long-range perimeter team no matter who the opponent is so Gobert has less effect on them. Gobert played in the team's first meeting. It was no contest. The Rockets buried the Jazz, 137-110, at home on Nov. 5. James Harden had a career-high 56 points. The Rockets didn't have Paul for that game either. Harden and the Rockets are even more potent with Paul.
12-06-17	Pistons +4 v. Bucks		100-104	Push	0	6 h 51 m	Show
Detroit is better than Milwaukee and in stop-the-pain mode trying to salvage one game out of its four-game road trip. Detroit didn't play well against the Wizards to begin their trip, but then suffered tough close losses against the 76ers and Spurs. The Pistons have covered nine of their 13 road contests this season. They are 8-1 ATS when getting three or more points, which is the case here. On deck for the Pistons are the Warriors and Celtics, the two-best teams in basketball. So they really need to win this game. The Bucks have proven untrustworthy going 3-6-1 ATS at home this season and 2-5 ATS when laying five points or fewer. Milwaukee has some outstanding talent. But the Bucks are not well coached, rank last in 3-point defense and don't rebound well making them vulnerable to rebounding leader Andre Drummond.
12-06-17	Warriors -5 v. Hornets	Top	101-87	Win	100	15 h 59 m	Show
The Warriors are still an outstanding team without Stephen Curry. They want to prove that on national TV against the Hornets here. Golden State has been playing well and when that happens no team can come close to the Warriors. The Warriors have won four in a row averaging 127 points during this span. All of these victories have come on the road where the Warriors have covered 19 of their last 27 away contests. Golden State has won its last three games by a combined 39 points against the Magic, Heat and Pelicans. The Hornets aren't any better than the Heat and Pelicans. Charlotte is 1-4 in its last five games with its lone win occurring this past Monday at home against the Magic, 104-94. The Hornets didn't play well, though. They were bailed out by a huge free throw advantage. They made 33 of 40 free throws while the Magic were able to get to the line only 14 times. The Hornets rank 26th in field goal percentage and free throw percentage. The Warriors are first in scoring, field goal percentage and 3-point shooting percentage. Golden State has beaten Charlotte six straight times, including the last three in Charlotte. The Warriors have a lot of fans in the area because of Curry.
12-05-17	Suns v. Raptors -13	Top	113-126	Push	0	17 h 22 m	Show
The Suns caught the 76ers playing probably their worst game of the season and upset them, 115-101, as 10-point road 'dogs Monday night. But the Suns aren't going to catch the Raptors in such a generous mood. Toronto is playing extremely well, has been dominant at home, is itching to play having been idle since Friday and won't be taking the lightly-regarded Suns lightly like the 76ers mistakenly did last night. Not only are the Suns in a letdown mood following their imprressive victory, but they could be out of gas, too, as this is the finale of a six-game, 10-day road trip that has resulted in close to 5,000 miles of travel. It's Phoenix's third game in four days, second in two nights and fifth in eight days. The well rested Raptors are 8-1 at home. They have won three in a row beating the Hawks on the road, Hornets and Pacers by a combined 52 points. The Raptors are averaging 119.3 points during their win streak and rank fourth in the NBA in scoring at 110.9. They also have a top-10 defense. Phoenix ranks last defensively in the league surrendering 115.2 points per game. So the Raptors certainly should pile up a high point total.
12-04-17	Bucks v. Celtics OVER 203		100-111	Win	100	11 h 44 m	Show
There are reasons why the Over has won in seven of the Celtics' last eight games. Boston's scoring is up and its defense is trending down. Kyrie Irving is getting more comfortable with his new teammates and players like Al Horford, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are benifitting from it. Boston has scored 108 or more points in seven of its last eight games. The Bucks are an average at best defensive club. They give up the highest 3-point shooting percentage in the league. The Celtics, though, have yielded at least 103 points in four of their past six games. The Bucks' offense has picked up since they acquired Eric Bledsoe. Milwaukee is averaging 108 points per game in regulation during its past five games. Bledsoe is averaging 22.6 points on 52 percent shooting from the floor during the last five games. The Over has cashed in four of those games. Giannis Antetokonumpo and Irving are two of the best scorers in the NBA ranking second and 14th, respectively. The Bucks have better backcourt scoring because of Bledsoe and Kris Middleton is a potent offensive player at the wing. Matthew Dellavedova is out for the Bucks, which helps the Over since he's one of Milwaukee's best defensive players.
12-04-17	Bucks v. Celtics -5.5	Top	100-111	Win	100	11 h 5 m	Show
Boston just may be the second-best team in the NBA next to Golden State. Certainly right now the Celtics are No. 1 in the Eastern Conference. Boston is 20-2 in its last 22 games and has won 10 of its past 11 home games. The Celtics have dropped just two home games all season. One of these losses came in their second game of the season to the Bucks. The Celtics had just lost to the Cavaliers the night before and also lost Gordon Hayward for the season with a gruesome injury. The Bucks took advantage of the spot. Boston hasn't forgotten. A motivated Celtics team can beat any team in the NBA at home as they proved when they defeated the Warriors on Nov. 16. The Bucks have a losing record when meeting above .500 opponents. Milwaukee improved when it acquired Eric Bledsoe, but the Bucks are nowhere near the Celtics' level
12-02-17	Pistons +5 v. 76ers		103-108	Push	0	13 h 43 m	Show
Any time the better team is getting points, especially this many, I'm strongly looking underdog. Yes, the Pistons played last night. They didn't play well either getting embarrassed by the Wizards, 109-91, on the road. That halted a three-game Detroit win streak and Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy was not happy ripping his team for not playing hard. I expect the Pistons to play better and with more intensity today. Detroit has covered each of the past five times following a loss. The Pistons also have revenge for a home loss to the 76ers from back on Oct. 23. Detroit is 14-7 on the season and in the argument for second-best team in the Eastern Conference. The Pistons have covered eight of their 11 road contests. The 76ers are greatly improved, but their record is 12-9 and they are striving to be more consistent with a lot of young talent that still is looking to mesh.
12-02-17	Clippers v. Mavs UNDER 207		82-108	Win	100	8 h 42 m	Show
Because the Dallas Stars hockey team is playing tonight at American Airlines Center, the Mavericks are hosting the Clippers in a day game. It's a morning start for the Clippers. The unusual early start time should be a plus for the Under. The Clippers are minus their two best offensive players, Blake Griffin and Danilo Gallinari. They are struggling to find a true point guard in their post Chris Paul-era with Milos Teodosic injured. LA is minus four of its opening night starters meaning such non-luminaries as Wesley Johnson, Montrezl Harrell, C.J. Williams and Sam Dekker are part of the rotation. So it's not a surprise the Clippers are averaging 89.3 points in their last three road games discounting the 116 points they put up against the Hawks. Dallas ranks in the bottom-four in scoring and field goal percentage. The Mavericks haven't broken triple digits in 10 of their last 15 games. Neither team gets much scoring production from their center. The intensity level in this series has been ratched up, too, the past couple of years when then free agent DeAndre Jordan went back on his word to the Mavericks and resigned with the Clippers. Dallas hasn't forgotten that.
12-01-17	Spurs v. Grizzlies UNDER 193.5	Top	95-79	Win	100	13 h 6 m	Show
San Antonio gives up fewer points per game than all but one team. The Spurs have gone Under in seven of their nine road games this season. Memphis ranks sixth in both defensive scoring and defensive field goal percentage. The Grizzlies have gone Under in nine of their 11 home contests this season. So there is a clear pattern of Unders involving the home/road breakdowns of these two strong defensive clubs. Now let's get down to the specific matchup. The two teams just met on Wednesday in San Antonio. The Spurs won 104-95. So that was a total of 199 points, which went Over the 195 total. This total opened lower. But for good reason. The teams combined to make 34 of 40 free throws for 85 percent in Wednesday's game. Both are above average free throw shooting teams, but not nearly that good. The Spurs and Grizzlies both shoot 79 percent from the foul line. Memphis made 11 of 22 shots from 3-point range. The Grizzlies rank 29th in 3-point shooting hitting 33 percent. The Spurs shot 50.7 percent from the floor. LaMarcus Aldridge scored a season-high 41 points on 17 of 24 shooting from the field. San Antonio ranks 16th in field goal percentage at 45.6 percent. Aldridge is an outstanding player and he's have a great season. But the Grizzlies aren't going to let him beat them again. Memphis is in desperation mode, losers of nine in a row. This will be their second game under interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff. I can't back the Grizzlies when they don't have Mike Conley, who is out with an Achilles injury. Memphis is averaging 90.6 points in its last six games - all without their star point guard. Tony Parker is back for San Antonio. This is just his third game, though, of the season. So he's still rusty. Put this all together and I believe Under is the way to go.
11-30-17	Cavs v. Hawks UNDER 216	Top	121-114	Loss	-110	11 h 56 m	Show
LeBron James isn't the sole reason why the Cavaliers have won nine in a row. James is playing great, but Cleveland has clamped down defensively holding their past nine foes to 99.8 points per game. Don't look for the Cavaliers to lose their defensive intensity against this lowly foe. The Hawks stunned the home Cavaliers, 117-115, when the teams last met on Nov. 5. Cleveland should have plenty of motivation for this rematch. James may see a reduction in minute, though, as this is Cleveland's third game in four days and a game it should win easily. The Cavaliers play again on Saturday hosting Memphis. Atlanta should have some defensive intensity, too, after being torched, 112-78, at home by the Raptors this past Saturday. Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer ripped into his team following that loss. The Hawks have had four full days off to practice, game plan and concentrate on this matchup. They also could be rusty offensively because of the extra time off.
11-29-17	Warriors -11 v. Lakers		127-123	Loss	-110	8 h 25 m	Show
Off a shocking loss to the Kings on Monday, I want the Warriors going for me today especially against the Lakers, a probable lottery bound team. Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant are both expected to play boosting the Warriors' chances. Neither played against the Kings. The Warriors should dominate all phases against the overmatched Lakers.