The NY Knicks enter into this game against the Orlando Magic off a hard fought , heart breaking 92-91  loss last night to the Toronto Raptors. The Knicks had led by as many as 17 points before falling apart as the game progressed. However despite of their deflating effort,  NYK still had a chance to win it with a wide open buzzer beater from C Anthony, that he missed. Now in an emotional letdown situation, and on tired legs I expect their hosts the Orlando Magic have the edge . The Magic are a side that has looked rejuvenated since the All-Star break, easily  running down  the Hawks 105-86 in the team's last game Saturday. With the Knicks still trying to figure out which direction the team will take going forward, they look, at least to me like fade material in spots like this vs a Orlando team that matched up well against them in a recent meeting in January in NY winning by  a 115-103 count as road dogs.

 Knicks are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Knicks are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games overall..

Play on the Orlando Magic to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Sixers lost 110-109 heart breaker on Saturday night to the New York Knicks, as Carmelo Anthony nailed a baseline jumper with three-tenths of a second remaining . The Sixers despite of key injuries to leading scorer Joel Embiid, have won 4 of their L/6 and have looked competitive, with the core of the team looking cohesive and showing positive chemistry. Meanwhile, Golden State with a 49-9 SU record, and a front runner for the NBA championship, come into the City of Brotherly love installed a almost 14 point road favorites. With that said, I know its not easy betting against the Warriors, but they are not infallible vs the spread, as is evident by a overall 28-28 ATS record a sub .500 -13-15 away ATS record. With the young Sixers playing with pride, and a trend that dates back to last season showing they are 12-0 ATS L/12 vs explosive offensive teams scoring 106+ ppg , in the second half of the season , Im recommending we take the points here. 

Philly has covered the L/2 meetings in this series at home.

Play on the Philadelphia 76ers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Celtics after a bad fourth quarter lost 107-97  at Toronto on Friday , and will now be prepared to bounce back vs a Detroit side they matchup well against. Meanwhile, Detroit won its first game after the All-Star break, rallying from an 18-point, second-half deficit to defeat a a lowly Charlotte side by 114-108 count  in overtime on Thursday. Boston took a 113 -109 win on Jan 30th at home and Im betting they have the edge again here on the road.

BOSTON is 16-5 ATS L/21 in road games when playing against a marginal losing team (Win Pct. 40% to 49%) and s 10-2 ATS  as a road favorite of 6 points or less this season.

All teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Pistons  - revenging a loss vs opponent against opponent off a road loss against a division rival are just 19-51 ATS over the L/5 seasons for a go against 73% conversion rate for bettors .

Boston Celtics to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Washington Wizards entered the all star break as the  Eastern Conference's hottest team , but had their flow interrupted in their  first game after the All-Star break as they lost, allowing 120 points to the 26th- ranked scoring offense in the NBA. Meanwhile, The Jazz had a good game, by winning  Friday in Milwaukee thanks to their pick-and-roll scheme, which Im betting will give the Wizards alot of problems this Sunday. Washington got some big headaches coming as they face the stingiest defense in the league. Utah allows 95.7 points per game which I am betting will be the catalyst behind a Jazz cover. 

Wizards are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.

Play on the Utah Jazz to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The young Lakers are big underdog here at home today vs the visiting San Antonio Spurs. Yes, the Spurs are obviously the superior side, but from a matchup standpoint Im betting they are being under rated , vs a HC Popovich coached side, that is notorious for resting starters , during a game. This gives credence to a multitude of covering situations and furthermore from a mathematical standpoint we have value taking points. 

LA LAKERS are 17-4 ATS L/21  versus good passing teams, averaging 23 assists/game or more - in the  2nd half of the season over the last few seasons and 17-6 ATS L/23 versus good shooting teams - making 46% or more of their shots.

Play on the LA Lakers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Pelicans enter into this game with the newly acquired DeMarcus Cousins on the roster, but  things did not pan out as expected in his first trip to the hardwood for Bayou crew, in a lopsided loss to the Rockets . From my perspective there seems to be no chemistry between himself and Anthony Davis, at least for now ,which makes the Pelicans fade material for me here tonight in Dallas. Meanwhile, the Mavericks, have steadily improved this season after a slow start, and have now covered 13 of their 18 entering the all star break, and have covered 7 of 8 games when favored overall this season.

From a league wide NBA trends database:  NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Mavericks - an average team (+/- 3 PPG diff.) against a poor team (-3 to -7 PPG diff.) after 42+ games are 71-39 ATS over the L/5 seasons for a 65% conversion rate for betting backers. 

 Mavericks are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.Mavericks are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games.Home team is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.DALLAS is 8-1 ATS L/8 in home games versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game like the Pelicans. DALLAS is 12-2 ATS L/14 in home games when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season dating back to last season and is 8-0 ATS L/8 in home games versus lower tier teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game under the same game and time perimeters. 

Play on the Dallas Mavs to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Atlanta Hawks are ranked fairly high on my power rankings lists  compared to many others I have seen, and  I feel we have great value backing them tonight vs a young and less than cohesive Orlando Magic side that  recently traded away top tier talent Serge Ibaka. I know the Hawks looked horrid last night vs the Miami Heat in  108-90 setback, but after that ugly loss, you can bet this group will now be motivated for redemption against a side the Hawks have demolished in recent battles,  winning the  last two meetings by a combined 46 points.

NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Hawks - off an upset loss as a home favorite, extremely well rested team - playing 3 or less games in 10 days are a bankroll expanding 43-19 ATS dating back 21 seasons for a close to 70% conversion rate for betting backers. 

ORLANDO is 2-10 ATS L/12 when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) this season losing SU by an average of 13.9 ppg.  ORLANDO is 2-10 ATS  at home when the line is +3 to -3 this season losing SU by an average of 8.7 pppg.  Hawks are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Hawks are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games playing with no rest. Magic are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games overall.Magic are 6-19-1 ATS in their last 26 home games.Hawks are 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Orlando.

Play on the Atlanta Hawks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

With the  return of Chris Paul expected tonight, the Los Angeles Clippers expect to be very competitive and  to get back on the winning track when the play the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night at Staples Center. Even if Paul does not play I like the Clippers chances at covering with the personnel they now have avaliable. Although the Spurs remain one of the league's top tier clubs, they have encountered problems with the Clippers as is evident by San Antonio having lost both of this season's previous meetings against Los Angeles. In the most recent confrontation  on Dec. 18, the Spurs were handed a 106-101 road defeat . The Clippers also pounded the Spurs 116-92 on Nov. 5 at San Antonio.

Spurs are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 road games.Clippers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.Underdog is 18-6 ATS in the last 24 meetings.Home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

LA Clippers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Serge Ibaka will make his Toronto Raptors debut Friday night vs the  Boston Celtics at the Air Canada Centre.  The Raptors after losing , 11 of their last 16 games  needed to make a change.

Toronto also expects forward Patrick Patterson to return Friday from a bruised left knee, a player that is a important cog in their teams future and current chemistry.Toronto has won two of three games between the teams this season with the lone loss coming in OT, and matchup well against the Celtics. There is no doubt in my mind that the Raptors are a top tier team despite of their struggles and must be respected here on their own home court. TORONTO is 7-0 ATS when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) this season and is 10-2 ATS  vs. division opponents this season.Celtics are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Atlantic.Celtics are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

Play on the Toronto Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Despite losing forward Jabari Parker to a season-ending ACL injury the Bucks still finished the first half in top form and must not be underestimated, as was evident by  winning three in a row entering the all star break and look like a viable choice here tonight, vs the visiting Utah Jazz. Meanwhile, Utah had lost three in a row before wrapping up the first half with a 111-88 victory and looked a little rattled/ragged overall before the break, with cohesive issues being at the center of their problems.

Jazz are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games.Jazz are 9-20 ATS in their last 29 games overall.NBA teams like   Milwaukee - good shooting team - shooting 46% or more on the season, hot shooting team - 4 straight games making 47% or more of their shots are  32-11 ATS dating back 20 seasons. 

Play on the Milwaukee Bucks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Golden State Warriors matchup very well against the LA Clippers, as has been evident by 3 straight wins in this series during the current campaign, with the victories coming by an average of 25.3 ppg. With the core of the Warriors both rested and not rusty after play off game action, I expect they come out here , and run over the Clippers for a lopsided win. Golden State   smashed the Clippers in a  46-point humiliation on Jan. 28  here in Oakland and another lopsided finish is what Im expecting tonight. 

GOLDEN STATE in 20 games this season  versus good 3 point shooting teams - making 36% or more  of their attempts are 14-6 ATS with the average margin SU win coming by 18 ppg. GOLDEN STATE is 9-1 ATS L/10 in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season, dating back to the previous campaign, winning SU by an average of 16.3 ppg. 

Play on the Golden State Warriors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

I am going to start off by saying I am not a big DeMarcus Cousins fan. It is not that the Pelicans new acquisition Cousins isn't extremely talented, but that he has problems with harnessing his ego and the so called proverbial  demons that haunt him. He has proven my theory in spades during his tumultuous  NBA career . But now despite of that I expect he will for at least tonight Cousins come out on fire with his new  teammate NBA  all star Anthony Davis and leave everything on the floor for what I expect will be a Pelicans cover .  Note: New Orleans also have a revenge on board for a 122-100 beat down at Houston earlier this season, which is favorable from a trends perspective that shows, as the Pelicans are 10-0-1 ATS in 11 previous same season revenge scenarios for a 20 point loss or more vs an opponent with a .666 win % or better like the Rockets.

Houston is 1-7 ATS L/8 as road chalk in this series.NEW ORLEANS is 23-9 ATS L/32 in home games versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game.

Cousins is expected to play tonight.

Play on New Orleans Pelcians to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Celtics have been in top form since late January and have won  12 of their L/13 SU.  But this is a precarious spot for the Beantown hoops crew, as they will be playing their 5th road game in their L/6 and are on tired legs after playing last night in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, the Bulls looked good in their last trip to the hardwood a win vs the Raptors and should be well rested as they play their 2nd game in a row at home after enduring a grueling 6 game road trip to start February. In both meetings this season, the home team has prevailed and from a long term perspective the Bulls are 11-2 SU as a host in this series and 6-1 SU with revenge. Advantage goes to the hosts.

BOSTON is 1-13 ATS L/14 after 4 or more consecutive wins dating back to last season.Bulls are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.Home team is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the Chicago Bulls to cover 1 unit reg selection 

 The Clippers strong defensive play of late has sparked them to three straight wins. The Clippers always base their successes and failures on their ability to defend. Meanwhile, the visiting Hawks their opponents tonight,   earned a hard fought 109-104 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, and are now playing their third straight and final road game on a west coast swing that will have them on tired legs. The Clippers look good against the Hawks in Atlanta in their lone meeting this season winning by a 115-105  count, and are my choice again here on home court.

LA CLIPPERS are 10-2 ATS L/12 after covering 3 of their last 4 against the spread this season.Hawks are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 vs. NBA Pacific.Clippers are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games playing on 1 days rest.Hawks are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up win.

NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Hawks - off an upset win as a road underdog are a long-term bad betting going just 124-185 ATS for go g against conversion rate of 60% for bettors.

Play on the LA Clippers to cover 

The Nuggets tied an NBA record with 24 made 3-pointers and blew out Golden State, 132-110 last time out and now Im betting they use the momentum of that win to take out the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight.The Nuggets face a Timberwolves team coming off a 116-108 home defeat to defending champion Cleveland on Tuesday night and will now be in a letdown state after leaving it all on the court and still not winning.Also the injury of Wolves leading scorer Zach LaVine who had surgery on his left knee will effect this young team, and that is evident by  having already lost 4 of the 6 games he has not played.  Denver had won 5 straight in this series until losing the last meeting between these two teams, and will be out for revenge.

Timberwolves are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games overall.Nuggets are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 home games.Nuggets are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.

Denver to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Cleveland played last night, and took out the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road and now the media is making a big deal about the loss of Kevin Love's loss to the Cavs after arthroscopic surgery. After the disappointing news LeBron James was quoted as saying: "I'll rest when I retire. As long as I'm in the lineup, we've got a chance," James said. "We good. Kev is out for an extended period of time. J.R. (Smith) has been out, but I'm in the lineup. I'll be suiting up, we've got a chance against anybody. I ain't worried." END QUOTE: I couldn't agree more with the future hall of famers words, and will be backing him and his team on home court tonight against a up and down Indiana Pacers that  followed up a seven-game win streak with a four-game losing streak.CLEVELAND is 20-8 ATS L/28 versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game - 2nd half of the season dating back to last season.

The Toronto Raptors are struggling and last time out, against Detroit blew a big DD lead going in the the fourth quarter before losing in OT by a 102-101 count. Now downtrodden and lacking confidence they  travel to Chicago, where they favored by 7 points on the opening line. QUOTE: "I'm starting to get worried, yeah,"  Toronto stay Lowry told reporters, according to the Globe and Mail. "It's not going the way we're supposed to be going and things aren't changing. So yeah, I'm starting to get worried."Meanwhile, despite of Chicago's recent ugly outings,  and possibly playing short handed , I like their chances at making Toronto work hard for a win, and for the Bulls to possibly spring the out right upset as they matchup well in  head to head scenarios. It must be noted that the Raptors lost 123-118 at Chicago back on Jan 7th and are just  6-18 ATS L/24 revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite . 

CHICAGO is 21-10 ATS L/31 versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game .  Chicago is 9-0 SUA/ATS L/9 meetings and 5-0 SU/ATS L/5 at home.

Play on the Chicago Bulls to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Minnesota enters this game off a beatdown of the Chicago Bulls last time out by DDs(117-89) But today against a Cleveland side that  dominated Minnesota the last time these teams met back on  Feb 1 winning by a 125-97 count the Wolves look like fade material. According to my own numbers the defending league champs once again look like solid bets laying 5 points or less in the rematch. 

MINNESOTA is 0-9 ATS L/9 after a blowout win by 15 points or more over the last couple of seasons losing SU by an average of 8.9 ppg. 

 This from a league wide ATS data base: NBA Underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points like the Wolves - revenging a road blowout loss vs opponent of 20 points or more against opponent off a home win by 10 points or more are 13-39 ATS dating back 5 seasons 

Play on the Cleveland Cavaliers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Warriors are coming off two tough games, including Kevin Durant's first game back in Oklahoma City and will be on tired legs vs an   opponent the Denver Nuggets that is almost never easy to deal with when playing here in the high altitude of the Mile High City. 

GOLDEN STATE is 8-17 ATS L/25 when playing against a team with a losing record this season.GOLDEN STATE is 3-14 ATS L/17 versus poor defensive teams - shooting pct defense of 46% or more - 2nd half of the season . GOLDEN STATE is 3-12 ATS L/15 after 3 straight games where they made 47% of their shots or better this season.

Denver to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Pistons come to town off a high energy come from behind victory last night. They rallied from a 16-point deficit to force overtime and took a 102-101 decision Sunday at Toronto, and will now be in an emotional letdown state and on tired legs as they play back to back games. Despite of the Bucks , not playing at the same level as the Pistons, I like their chances at underdogs vs a side that could easily be playing on an empty tank. 

NBA teams like the Bucks - cold team - failing to cover the spread in 12 or more of the last 15 against opponent after having covered 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread are a long term bankroll expanding 72-36 ATS for a 68% conversion rate for their betting backers. DETROIT is 12-23 ATS L/35 after covering 4 or 5 of their last 6 against the spread.

Milwaukee to cover 1 unit reg selection 

 Two teams the visiting San Antonio Spurs and their hosts the Indiana Pacers are both coming off losses and  will now meet this Monday night. The Pacers  have lost three straight games after winning seven in a row.Meanwhile, the Spurs  suffered a surprising 94-90 loss to the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon in Madison Square Garden. The Spurs looked disinterested and lethargic and key catalyst LaMarcus Aldridge continued a recent funk. The Spurs after playing at such a high level for so long, may have now hit a wall, and the all star break could not come at a better time. 

The Pacers have compiled a 20-8 home record this season at Bankers Life Fieldhouse and defeated the Spurs here last season, and once again in my humble opinion look like solid underdog picks.

INDIANA is 19-8 ATS L/27 after having lost 3 of their last 4 games over the last 2 seasons.SAN ANTONIO is 19-31 ATS L/50 versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game - 2nd half of the season dating back to last  season.

Play on the Indiana Pacers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The New Orleans Pelicans and the Sacramento Kings are two inconsistent teams. The Pelicans in part depend to much on Anthony Davis , while the Kings seem to do better  when their temperamental  super star DeMarcus Cousins is on the sidelines. When the Kings star has been in the lineup he has not looked cohesive with his teammates of late. QUOTE: "I'm fighting my demons right now," Cousins said after his last  game, before later adding, "I don't know how to be myself anymore. It's something I'm going to have to figure out." END QUOTE. Cousins is talented, but he's an emotional wreck and wreaks havoc on his teams flow , more often than not. He is expected to be in the lineup tonight. Yes, I know the Kings have won two straight (both at home), but from a matchup, standpoint some teams matchup well against certain opponents, according to my own data, and the Pelicans matchup very well against the Kings from a systems and player to player standpoint. HC Joerger of the Kings  is 7-20 ATS  off 2 or more consecutive home wins in all games SACRAMENTO is 0-9 ATS L/9 after scoring 105 points or more 4 straight games .  .

Pelicans are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.Kings are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.Kings are 16-33-2 ATS in their last 51 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.Pelicans are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the New Orleams Pelicans to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Toronto Raptors have looked exhausted of late , but I am betting a 3 day layoff and  their  return home can get them headed in the right direction again, beginning with a matchup against the visiting Detroit Pistons this Sunday. Note: Raptors are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

Meanwhile, the Pistons despite of playing some good hoops of late,  they are off a hard fought loss to San Antonio last time out, and will be in a let down state vs a well rested and  hungry team. DETROIT is 3-11 ATS  in road games after a non-conference game this season.

Toronto entered Saturday tied for fourth in the NBA in foul shooting (80.6 percent) and Detroit was 27th (73.6) .It must be noted that when laying points with a team in this league,  these types  of inequalities can be a key to cashing a ticket. Also TORONTO is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) versus poor foul drawing teams - attempting 24 or less free throws/game this season.

Pistons are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.Pistons are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 vs. Eastern Conference.

Toronto Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Bulls in their last tilt got back the services of Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade  but still lost 115-97 at Phoenix, which has the second-worst record in the NBA. That was embarrassing, for the Bulls, and pros do not like to be embarrassed ,especially all star future hall of famers like Dwayne Wade. QUOTE: "Awful, awful ... they out-competed us in every category," Chicago coach Fred Hoiberg said. "Rebounding, loose balls, 19-6 in transition. That tells you all you need to know. END QUOTE: With that said, I expect the veteran core of the Bulls to stand up today, and take advantage of another very inconsistent team the Minnesota Timberwolves that is now playing without the services of key cog Zach LaVine, who will miss the rest of the season and looked  bad without. in a lopsided loss to New Orleans last time out. There is also payback on the agenda for the Bulls as the Wolves upset them 103-110 at home earlier this season. 

Bulls are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.Timberwolves are 16-37-1 ATS in their last 54 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.Timberwolves are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games overall.Road team is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings.Bulls are 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Minnesota.

 NBA Road teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Bulls - off 2 or more consecutive road losses, well rested team - playing 6 or less games in 14 days are a bankroll expanding 63-22 for their betting backers dating back 21 seasons. 

Play on the Bulls to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Oklahoma City took on the defending NBA champion Cleveland Cavaliers in their last trip to the hardwood, and upset them as underdogs which has them entering this tilt against mighty Golden State  riding a four-game win streak. I know most of us view the Dubs , as virtually invincible, because of their SU record, but the truth is they are  barely a .500 team ATS this season, because in part because of the premium lines placed on their games by bookmakers. Tonight , with Durant visiting his old diggs, and the home team motivated to get revenge for ugly losses in the two first meetings ( both at Oakland) Im expecting a much better effort from Westbrook and company in front of their own fans in what promises to be an emotionally charged affair. I must also be noted that the Warriors played last night, in a hard fought game at Memphis, and will now be on tired legs. With that said, I'm taking the points with the motivated and fresher hosts. GOLDEN STATE is 3-12 ATS L/15 in road games on Saturday games.OKLAHOMA CITY is 17-8 ATS  in home games this season and  8-1 ATS  in home games revenging a loss vs opponent this season and a longer term 25-9 L/34 ATS with revenge.

Oklahoma City to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The New Orleans Hornets enter into this game well prepared to play a good but inconsistent young Minnesota Wolves group. The Hornets may not always inspire alot of nba pundits, but they are a tight crew, that play hard together. With one of the NBAs best players healthy and  in their lineup ( Anthony Davis)  the Pelicans can be a menace, especially against a deficient defensive team like the Wolves that have allowed 100 or more points in 12 straight games. It must be noted that Davis had a rare down game last time out, potting just 12 points, and will be very ready for a huge bounce back performance in this spot.From a player to player matchup standpoint, the Pelicans actally matchup well vs the Wolves, and I'm betting they make life difficult for their hosts tonight and get us the cover. 

MINNESOTA is 8-17 ATS L//25 as a favorite this season.MINNESOTA is 5-16 ATS L/21 in home games when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last few seasons.NEW ORLEANS is 36-23 ATS  versus top tier offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game dating back to last season. Pelicans have won 3 of their L/4 visits to Minneapolis. 

Play on New Orleans to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Miami is the league's hottest team and takes a 12-game winning streak into Friday's visit with the Nets In Brooklyn.The Heat are averaging 109.4 points, shooting 49.4 percent and making 42.8 percent of its 3-pointers during the streak. Now going against the lowly Brooklyn Nets,  some pundits might expect the Heat , to over look their opponents. I however, am betting this will not be the case tonight. A little over two weeks ago, the Miami Heat visited the Brooklyn Nets and had to stage a ferocious comeback to net a 109-106 victory, and than in the rematch took a 104-96 victory in South Florida.  So tonight I expect the Heat to be even more focused. Meanwhile, Brooklyn is off an exhausting matchup vs the Washington Wizards last time out losing a heart breaker in OT. Now in an emotional letdown scenario and on tired legs, I expect the visitors will take advantage of them, in what could easily be a lopsided victory. It must be noted that  the Nets have lost 11 straight, allowing 109.8 points/per game while average margin of defeat is 9.2 ppg.

MIAMI is 11-0 ATS L/11 versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season and 11-0 ATS  versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season with the average margin of victory coming by 11.2 ppg.

Play on the Miami Heat to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Boston Celtics are a team with alot of chemistry. Add to that they consistently play hard and  find ways to win , even  when they have had a multitude of walking wounded. The Celtics  have won 7 of their L/8 games overall, and just had a 7 game win streak end , against Sacramento last time out. as they began a 4 game road trip. The Celtics looked a little fatigued as they adjusted to a west coast time zone last night, but will be better prepared to play tonight.  Meanwhile, Portland is coming off a last second win against Dallas last time out, 114-113, but that was after blowing  a substantial lead, something that has haunted them consistently this season. I expect the Blazers will be in an emotional letdown situation here after that energy filled victory. 

Considering the Celtics have revenge on board for a 127-123 loss at home to the Blazers back on  Jan 21, I expect a motivated pay back effort must be expected by the men from Beantown. 

HC Stevens is 31-17 ATS L/48 revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite. BOSTON is 32-15 ATS L/47 when playing on back-to-back days. BOSTON is 7-0 ATS in road games after having won 3 of their last 4 games this season.PORTLAND is 7-15 ATS L/22 after 1 or more consecutive wins this season . This also from a NBA league wide archive: NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Celtics - off a road loss against opponent like Portland off a road win by 3 points or less are a bankroll expanding 26-7 ATS dating back to the 2011 campaign for a 79% conversion rate for bettors. 

Boston Celtics to cover 1 unit reg selection 

I did not like what I saw from the NY Knicks last time out, in a lopsided loss to the visiting LA Lakers, a team that had lost 13 straight road games. With NYK HC Jeff Hornacek frustrated and his teams negative body language while on the court , I'm going against them here. I don't know whats going on in the dressing room, but I personally think all the talk of the Melo Anthony trade, and the teams overall lack of character in key situations has finally taken its toll  over the entire teams mind set. Its a old cliche, in sports, but I'll say it again. This Knicks team has chemistry issues and management and ownership know it. I know their opponents tonight the LA Clippers are also struggling, but they are still a strong side, that will find this game much easier than the last 4 they have lost ( two vs Golden State , Boston, and Toronto). With that said, Clippers get the nod.

NEW YORK is 14-27 ATS L/41 as a home underdog of 6 points or less and 3-14 ATS after trailing their last two games by 10 or more points at the half, which happened in the the first two games of their current home stand.Knicks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 vs. Western Conference.Clippers are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings in New York.

Play on the LA Clippers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Atlanta after a ugly effort against Utah last time out, losing by DDs,will be ready to bounce back here vs a improving Denver team.Its interesting to note the Atlanta Hawks have won 15 of their past 21 games, but they've alternated good and bad performances since starting the stretch with seven straight victories. I'm not saying that because they were out played last time out that they will systematically play better here, but I do believe they have enough good coaching and quality player personnel to right their ship quickly. Yes,  this young Denver side  has played some very good ball of late, and won their last game at home despite of having three key players out, but now I expect the injury of their top scorer Gallinari to be issue here on the road, where their defense has been atrocious as is evident by allowing 110.7 ppg this season. The Hawks won 109-108 in Denver on Nov. 23 and have beaten the Nuggets at home each of the last four seasons and are 15-3 SU L/18 meetings overall. 

ATLANTA is 27-13 ATS L/40 in home games versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game on the season winning SU by 9.2 ppg. Hawks are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games following a ATS loss and are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 games following a double-digit loss at home.

Play on Atlanta to cover 1 unit reg selection 

In one of the best games in recent NBA history the Wizards fell short in a 140-135 overtime thriller to Cleveland, and will now be in an emotional let down state vs a lowly Brooklyn team I'm sure they are over looking. The last time Washington visited the  Brooklyn Nets ,   they  trailed by 16 in the first half in an eventual come from behind 118-113 victory Dec. 5, and another similar affair may not be out of the question. I know backing Brooklyn under any circumstances can be a death defying feat, but in my usual contrarian fashion, Im recommending we just close our eyes, plug our noses and some how find the guts to pull the trigger and  back the Nets here in a advantageous situation vs a side that I expect will lack the energy needed to cover the spread. (Wizards are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.)

Play on the Brooklyn Nets to cover

The Dallas Mavericks are off a sleepy performance last night in the Mile High City. Lack of oxygen or just a down game, are to blame for getting beat by DDs by the Nuggets. Dallas had a four-game winning streak end abruptly, but had won nine of its last 13 and are still looking more and more like a possible play off team. Now after being embarrassed I expect they come home and put forth a focused bounce back effort vs a inconsistent Portland side  currently on a two game losing run.Dallas has won two of the three meetings with the Blazers this season and ar my choice again.

DALLAS is 21-8 ATS  vs. good free throw shooting teams like Portland - making 76% or more  of their attempts this season.Stotts is 7-21 ATS L/28  after a game being outrebounded by opponent by 15 or more.

Mavericks are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a ATS loss.Mavericks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.Mavericks are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games.Trail Blazers are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 vs. NBA Southwest.Trail Blazers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.Trail Blazers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Trail Blazers are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Dallas.

Play on the Dallas Mavericks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Atlanta Hawks, will be out to avenge lopsided loss at Utah back on Nov 25 by a 95-68 count, and will be out to take down the Jazz for the eighth time in the past 10 home meetings on Monday night. Meanwhile, the Jazz have been playing well, but are coming off a game on Saturday at home against Charlotte, rallying to win 105-98 and will now be on tired legs, as they travel west to east in a time zone jet lag situation.
UTAH is 7-17 ATS L/24 in road games when playing against a team with a winning record and 11-23 ATS L/34 in road games versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game.UTAH is 1-10 ATS as a road underdog this season and 0-7 ATS as a road underdog of 6 points or less this season.Utah head coach Quin Snyder is 4-14 SUATS away versus opponents with revenge from a loss of 16 or more points.

Play on the Atlanta Hawks to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Lakers have lost 13 straight road games and have not procured a victory on the road since taking down the Philadelphia 76ers 100-89 on Dec. 16. They have allowed at least 100 points in 12 of those games and rank 27th, giving up 110.3 points a night. Meanwhile, despite of Knicks also struggling, I feel they have the advantage tonight, vs the Lakers side that is 5-13-1 ATS in their last 19 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. The Knicks last time out lost to the Cavaliers 111-104 as dogs, but are are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 games following a ATS loss and are 10-1 ATS  after playing a game as a home underdog this season. Advantage to the Knicks.

New York has won 5 straight in this series and took the first meeting this season 118-112 at Los Angeles on Dec. 11. 

Play on the NY Knicks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Clippers enter this tilt against their hosts the Boston Celtics having lost  3 of their L/4, but two of those losses came to the leagues most explosive team the Golden State Warriors. The Clippers usually stable D, has been their biggest issue, of late , but are more than capable of righting that ship against a tired Boston side, that is off a hard fought win last time out by a 113-107 count vs the Lakers.  From a league wide trends archive it must be noted that NBA Road underdogs  like the LA Clippers- - after allowing 105 points or more 3 straight games against opponent after a win by 6 points or less or 35-4 L/39  ATS dating back 5 seasons. I know the Celtics are on a 6 game winning streak,but the Clovers are just  1-11 ATS L/12 after 4 or more consecutive wins over the last couple seasons. BOSTON is also 1-8 ATS L/9 in home games when playing 6 or more games in 10 days this season.  From a matchup perspective the Clippers HC Rivers is 16-4 ATS L/20 in road games vs. excellent free throw shooting teams - making 80% or more of their shots - 2nd half of the season in all games he has coached in his career. 

Clippers are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a double-digit loss at home.Celtics are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 vs. NBA Pacific.Clippers are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Boston.

Play on the LA Clippers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Minnesota and Memphis enter this game  both off losses yesterday.Memphis  had a three-game winning streak snapped at Oklahoma City, while the Wolves 1-6 ATS L/7  lost in Detroit for their second straight defeat . In head to head meetings Minnesota  struggled against Memphis last time out losing 93-71 on nov 19  this season and Im betting the matchup scenarios remain the same, with the Grizzlies having the edge. MEMPHIS is 10-2 ATS off a road loss this season.Grizzlies are 21-10 ATS in their last 31 games playing on 0 days rest.

NBA Home underdogs like the Wolves - after playing 2 consecutive road games, playing on back-to-back days are just 41-76 ATS for a go against conversion rate of 65%.

MINNESOTA is 0-12 ATS L/12 in a home game where where the total is between 200 and 204.5 points this season.

Play on Memphis to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Two teams coming off hard fought games have go head to head on back-to-backs on Saturday night when the Milwaukee Bucks visit the Phoenix Suns. The Suns took a big 105-103 win in Sacramento as 5 point dogs snapping a 5 game losing streak and the Bucks lost a close affair against the Denver Nuggets 121-117 as 3.5 point pups for their 5th straight loss. NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Suns - off an upset win as a road underdog, a lower tier  team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record are just 12-33 ATS L/45 follow ups, dating back to the 2012 season. Also NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Bucks  - off a road loss against opponent off a road win by 3 points or less are 25-7 ATS L/33 also dating back 5 seasons. 

I expect the Bucks hold the advantage here according to my own stats and Im betting they get the cover. 

PHOENIX is 3-12 ATS L/15 after a win by 6 points or less . MILWAUKEE is 41-23 ATS L/ 64 after 5 or more consecutive losses.

Milwaukee Bucks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Phoenix Suns come in there in struggling form, after 5 straight losses ,but I'm betting they right their ship and stay very competitive in this spot, vs a Sacramento team that they matchup well against. The Suns will present a problem with their backcourt tandem because Sacramento labors to guard the perimeter. Suns guard Eric Bledsoe scored at least 40 points in three of his L/6 games, and  Booker scored at least 20 in 14 straight tilts and will be the catalysts for a Suns cover.

NBA teams like the Kings - average shooting team (43.5-45.5%) against an poor defensive team (45.5-47.5%) like the Suns, after a game where a team made 35% of their shots or worse, 9-29 ATS L/38.

Suns are 21-8-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a ATS loss.Kings are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. The Sacramento Kings are 0-14 ATS L/14 at home before facing Golden State. ( I call this the look ahead syndrome)

Phoenix to cover 1 unit reg selection

Oklahoma City enters this home game against Memphis off three straight losses. The first two defeats came against defending champions Cleveland and  contenders San Antonio, and the third was in let down mode vs the Bulls after exerting alot of energy in the first two losses to top tier sides. Now with a day to rest, I expect the Thunder will be primed to bounce back. It must be noted that OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-1 ATS L/10 after having lost 3 of their last 4 games this season and are 5-1 ATS in their L/6 at home. Meanwhile, MEMPHIS is 3-15 ATS L/18 in road games when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) losing SU by an average of 8.4 ppg.

.Grizzlies are 0-5 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Oklahoma City.Home team is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

Play on Oklahoma City to cover 1 unit reg selection 

 The Celtics enter this home game against the LA Lakers  in top form having won 5 straight games, but it must be noted that  BOSTON is  just 1-10 ATS L/11 after 4 or more consecutive wins dating back to last season. Meanwhile, the LA Lakers, with 24 more hrs to acclimate to a east coast time zone, after playing last night in Washington will be ready to compete here tonight, much like they did late in last nights games vs a solid Wizards team covering as 10.5 point dogs in a 116-108 loss. The Lakers are a solid 5-1 ATS in their L/6 and are once again being under rated by the pundits. 

LA LAKERS are 15-4 ATS L/19 versus good passing teams, averaging 23 or more assists/game - 2nd half of the season over the last few seasons.Lakers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.Celtics are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 vs. NBA Pacific.Lakers are 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

Play on the LA Lakers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Golden State Warriors off a DD win vs Charlotte last night 126-111 look head and shoulder above every other team in this league and once again look like viable bets here against the LA Clippers tonight in the Staples Center. The Warriors have taken eight straight victories vs the Clippers, including the last four meetings in LA.. The Dubs average margin of victory has come by more than 13 points in the past eight contests against the Clippers, while  averaging 117.5 points per game and shooting 49.9 percent.In their last meeting Golden State smashed LA 144-98 on Jan 28th. This sets up this trend perfectly-

NBA Underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points like the Clippers- revenging a road blowout loss vs opponent of 20 points or more against opponent off an home win scoring 110 or more points are 4-28 ATS L/32.

GOLDEN STATE is 12-4 ATS L/16 versus good 3 point shooting teams  like the Clippers- making 36% or more of their attempts this season with the average margin of victory coming by just under 22 ppg. GOLDEN STATE is 40-22 ATS L/62 as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points dating back to last season winning SU by an average of 9.5 ppg. 

Play on the Golden State Warriors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Golden State off a hard fought 113-11 win vs Portland on Sunday  now takes on a usually feisty and under rated Charlotte Hornets squad off a 115-98 loss last night in Portland.   I know the Hornets have struggled recently, losing 5 straight and 10 of their last 13 games, but because of the Warriors extreme superiority in this league and the Hornets current struggles, a premium favorite line has been installed by lines-makers, giving us value with the dog. 

NBA Road underdogs like the Hornets - after allowing 105 points or more 3 straight games against opponent like the Dubs after a win by 6 points or less are 35-4 ATS L/39 dating back 5 seasons.

GOLDEN STATE is 8-25 ATS L/33 after a game - attempting 20+ more free throws than opponent which happened last time out vs Portland. 

Warriors are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following a ATS loss.Warriors are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.Hornets are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Golden State.

Play on Charlotte to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The NY Knicks enter this game against lowly Brooklyn off getting clobbered by the Washington Wizards last night, and now are in an emotional letdown state and on tired legs, and also in a look ahead mode, as the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers are on deck. Meanwhile, the Nets, while not inspiring many bettors are looking forward to getting some revenge, against a Knicks side that cruised to a 110-96 victory in a earlier meeting this season. It must be noted that the Knicks are just are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400 and 0-5 ATS L/5 against a side with a below .500 home record.

Home team is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings and I am betting on the host side covering again. Brooklyn has win 4 straight SU at home in this series,

Injury update - NYK Knicks Derrick Rose expected to miss (injury)

Play on the Brooklyn Nets to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Portland Trailblazers enter this game playing some very good basketball, having won 3 of their L/4 games with their only loss coming last time out, by 2 points to the explosive Golden State Warriors 113-111. Now in top form they face a Charlotte side playing at the proverbial opposite end of the performance spectrum, and have lost four straight. 

From a head to head perspective the host Blazers , also match-up well according to my own player to player and matchup stats, especially considering the Hornets are expected to play tonight's game without the services of starting center Cody Zeller. It must be noted that Charlotte is just 1-9 SU without Zeller in the lineup this season. Also from a defensive perspective the Blazers have gotten better as the season has progressed, and have come a long way since being ranked dead last in the league entering January. Since than the Blazers in 14 games have allowed 107.1 ppg and have allowed more than 120 points just three times with only 5 teams shooting better than 48% against them. While those numbers may not be championship calibre stats, they are still showing me this team is correcting earlier mistakes , and now on a upward trend and very under rated.

CHARLOTTE is 6-23 ATS L/29 vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season.CHARLOTTE is 3-11 ATS L/14 when the total is greater than or equal to 210 this season. Portland is 10-2 L/12 SU in this series. 

Portland to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Phoenix Suns have lost three straight after, back to back series losses to the Denver Nuggets, and will now be primed for a bounce back effort vs the up and down Memphis Grizzlies, a side that is 4-5 SU and just 3-6 ATS in their L/9 games. Both sides may not inspire bettors at the moment, but the Suns here on their own home court have the match-up edge according to my proprietary programs and overall data .

PHOENIX is 31-17 ATS L/50 after a loss by 10 points or more PHOENIX is also 8-0 ATS L/8 in home games after a game where they were called for 30 or more fouls, which happened in a 123-112 loss the Denver Nuggets last time out. Suns are 21-6-1 ATS in their last 28 games following a ATS loss.Memphis  is 8-19 ATS L/27 in a road game where the total is 200 to 209.5 .Grizzlies are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a straight up win.Suns are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 home games.Underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Play on Phoenix to cover 1 unit reg selection   

Dallas comes off a invigorating win vs the San Antonio Spurs last night , and will now be in a emotional letdown state and on tired legs, vs a Cleveland Cavaliers team, that has something to prove , as many believe they cannot remain champions.  The Cavaliers matchup very well against the Mavs, as was evident in a 128-90 win back on Nov 25 at home. It must be noted that NBA  Home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points like the Mavericks - revenging a road blowout loss vs opponent of 20 points or more against opponent off a home win by 10 points or more are just 5-29 ATS L/34 dating back to the 2010/11 season. . (Cleveland smashed Oklahoma City by a 107-91 count last time out ) Dallas HC Carlisle is just is 10-22 ATS in home games revenging a blowout loss vs opponent of 20 points or more.

Cleveland to cover 1 unit reg selection 

 The road team took each of the first two meetings this season, with the Pistons taking a 121-114 win at Boston on Nov. 3 and Im betting the visitor once again has the edge taking points. The Celtics are short handed and despite of   winning the last two games without key performers Al Horford and Avery Bradley at  less than 100% or on the sidelines, Im betting the pride of Boston basketball cannot consistently play top tier hoops.  I also know the Pistons have struggled of late, and looked bad converting just four treys against Miami last time out, in ugly loss,  but now a bounce back performance must be expected. Look for the Pistons big man Andre Drummond to dominate in the paint and for him to be the catalyst behind a competitive Motown performance. Pistons are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.Road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Play on Detroit to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Minnesota smashed Orlando by a 123-107, back in November in the Magic Kingdom, and now the Magic have revenge on board tonight. Orlando is 6-1 L/7 as visitors in this series and 7-1 SU/ATS wit same season revenge in this series. Orlando is also 9-2 ATS as 7 point or more rod dogs this season. With that said, I'll be recommending we take the dog here tonight. 

ORLANDO is 12-2 ATS L/14 in road games against Northwest division opponents. MINNESOTA is 5-16 ATS L/21 after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons and 0-8 ATS L/8 after a blowout win by 15 or more points.)Minny whipped Brooklyn last time out by a 129-109 count.

Orlando to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Miami is in top form after 7 straight wins and in top form, but because of this I'm betting they may over look their opponents. Meanwhile, Brooklyn's horrendous season consistently makes them big underdogs. The lines makers are even now throwing in a premium point or 2 price tag when fading them.  I know the Nets throw alot of clunkers out there, and may not inspire many bettors, but at the moment I am stubbornly sticking to my guns, because of mathematics,  and recommending we back the Nets on a slightly bloated line . Heat are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 vs. NBA Atlantic.

Play on the Brooklyn Nets to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Mighty Golden State Warriors come into the Moda Center tonight in Portland off a blowout win last night. However, it must be noted that the Dubs are just 1-6 ATS on the road without rest this season. Meanwhile, the Blazers, with revenge on their minds for three straight losses in this series, look like viable underdog bets after  having won three straight games and look to be in a upward momentum trend. 

From a league wide league data base : NBA Road favorites of 10 or more points like the Warriors - a dominant team - outscoring their opponents by 9+ points/game are just 27-66 ATS dating back 21 seasons.

Play on Portland to cover 1 unit reg selection

Philadelphia (17-28) has recently playing some good basketball but is coming off a 123-118 loss at home Friday to the Houston Rockets, and won't have their catalyst and  star center Joel Embiid in the lineup tonight, which puts them at a disadvantage. Meanwhile, the Bulls (23-25) have struggled mightily in their past two games and began to criticize each other in postgame interviews and social media accounts.  Bulls HC Hoiberg then benched stars Wade and Butler, and the team lost 100-88 to Miami. Pros do not like to be embarrassed and Needless to say, they have now ignited a fire under their proverbial butts, and Im betting they come out here on fire and get us the cover. 

PHILADELPHIA is 9-21 ATS L/30 in road games after playing a home game. Chicago is a perfect 8-0 SU L/8 meetings. 

Play on the Chicago Bulls to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Houston Rockets enter this tilt vs their hosts Indiana  looking very much like the right side here today according to my own power rankings and team and player to player matchup stats. Look for the Rockets high powered offense to get the best of a Indiana defense that allowed more than 106 ppg this season. I know the Rockets D, is nothing to brag about either, but he difference maker will come via the superior offense, which belongs to the Rockets (114.5 ppg).

HOUSTON is 28-19 ATS  versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game on the season this season and 24-13 ATS  versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season,INDIANA is 18-31 ATS L/49 in non-conference games dating back to last season.

Houston Rockets to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Brooklyn's horrendous season consistently makes them big underdogs. The lines makers are even now throwing in a premium point or 2 price tag when fading them. Meanwhile, Minnesota is a fine young team , but are hardly a top tier side,  , just yet. However, despite of that , the Wolves are being made double digit favorites here tonight vs a side that actually matches up fairly well against them, as was the case on Nov 8 when the Nets beat the Wolves 119-110 on home court as 4 point dogs. Hey guys I know that the Nets are without Booker and Lopez,  but they look better in my opinion with Justin Hamilton at center, Bogdanovic and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson at forward and guards Spencer Dinwiddie and Randy Foye,in the lineup and scored 43 points in the fourth quarter in a loss vs the Cleveland Cavaliers last time out.MINNESOTA is  9-21 ATS L/30   in home games revenging a road loss vs opponent and is 19-34 ATS L/53 as a favorite.MINNESOTA is also 19-36 ATS when playing against a team with a losing record dating back to last season and s 9-22 ATS  lower tier teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game.

Brooklyn to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Nuggets standout center Nikola Jokic suffered hip injury in his last outing and will miss this game vs the Phoenix Suns. Immediate advantage now goes to the Suns in this matchup in the desert tonight. Jokic won't be easy to replace. The Nuggets star is just  one five players -- along with Russell Westbrook, DeMarcus Cousins, Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Davis -- to be averaging at least 20 points and 10 rebounds in January. The Nuggets have lost 17 of 26 when he does not start compared to 11-8 SU when hes in the lineup. 

Phoenix Suns to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Grizzlies have been playing mediocre basketball this month losing 6 of 11 games, and are not looking as consistently tenacious as they did  last season. Do not get me wrong their still a hard working group with good chemistry, but tonight  they are fade material against a Portland side , that is  in an upward momentum trend after two straight wins, against the Celtics on the road and Lakers at home. It must also be noted that in their two meetings this year the Blazers matched up well against the Grizz, losing a close affair 88-86 in December, and defeated  them 100-92 in the first meeting back in November.with both games coming on the road . Now with home court advantage, the Blazers look very much like the right side in this spot. 

Blazers HC Stotts is 32-18 ATS L/50 versus poor shooting teams like the Grizzlies- making 43% or less of their shots.MEMPHIS is 10-21 ATS  when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days dating back to last season.PORTLAND is 16-6 ATS L/22 in home games when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days dating back to last season.Grizzlies are 2-5-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.

Play on the Portland Blazers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Two teams playing exceptional ball at the moment, clash to -night in Atlanta as the Hawks host the Washington Wizards. The difference maker  is in how each team has performed in the visitors role and as hosts. Washington has struggled on the road, going 6-14 SU away from the Verizon Center , while Atlanta is 13-9 SU at Philips Arena.This is the third meeting of the season between the two clubs. Atlanta won the first game 114-99 and Washington hung on in a  95-92 victory in the rematch, with each team winning at home.The difference maker tonight comes via home court advantage again. 

ATLANTA is 27-12 ATS L/39 when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%)

Play on Atlanta to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Minnesota has won three straight games, and getting accolades from the NBA pundits. However, despite of their current  short term success, Im still not sold on them, and feel like they still have a long way to go. In the Wolves last trip to the hardwood, they got a buzzer beater to upend the Suns on the road, by 1 point (112-111) and despite of their hard work were lucky to get that win and will now be in an emotional letdown state . It must be noted the Wolves are,  2-11 ATS  in home games off a road win and a long term 19-44 ATS  off a road win by 3 points or less . Meanwhile, the visiting Indiana Pacers are playing at the proverbial opposite end of the spectrum losing three straight, but according to my own numbers and player to players matchup statistics offer value taking points here.

MINNESOTA is 19-33 ATS L/52 as a favorite . INDIANA is 18-8 ATS L/26 after having lost 3 of their last 4 games.MINNESOTA is 9-23 ATS L/32  in home games versus good ball handling teams - committing 14 or less turnovers/game  and 8-17 ATS L/25 vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season.

Play on the Indiana Pacers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Mavericks  smashed the Los Angeles Lakers by 49 points on Sunday, and bring momentum in to game  against a NY Knicks side that is exhausted, as they play their 9th game in 14 days. The Knicks did win last time out over Indiana , but they have not won two in a row since Dec 22 of this season.Meanwhile, the Mavericks have won four of their last six and split their last 18 games overall, and are healthy and currently in top form, and my choice tonight as short favorites on  home  court tonight. The Mavs are 16-3 SU L/19 at home in this series. DALLAS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season.Knicks are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

Play on the Dallas Mavs to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Houston enters into this game against their hosts Boston losing 5 of their L/8 games, and are not playing at the same level that they did earlier this season. Meanwhile, the Celtics despite of a current 3 game losing streak, are a capable home side, with enough offensive guns ,  as is evident by scoring 103 or more points in 17 straight games,  to keep pace here and get us the cover. I do know that the Celtics played last night but they are one of leagues better conditioned side, as is also evident by a  30-15 ATS when playing on back-to-back days.HOUSTON is  just 19-32 ATS L/51 as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points. 

Play on the Boston Celtics to cover 1 unit reg selection 

This is my Ugly Betty wager of the week. On the surface its a selection that has negatives attached to it, but  my data base, and matchup stats are telling me the home team actually has an edge on this line as underdogs.  I know the Heat take a season-high four-game winning streak into to play the lowly  Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday night, but in contrarian fashion I'll take the home dog, as Im betting on the Heat being in a emotional let down spot after upsetting Golden State last time out 105-102..MIAMI is 0-8 ATS L8 in road games after a game where they made 12 or more 3 point shots, which happened last time out vs the Warriors. 

Play on Brooklyn to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Timberwolves beat the Suns 98-85 in Phoenix in November, and then won 115-108 in Minneapolis last month. However, despite of these results I now expect a rejuvenated looking Suns side to get some payback.Phoenix has gone 5-5 SU this month, including wins over two division leaders -- San Antonio and Toronto and must not be underestimated at the moment. Yes, I do know that the Suns are playing their 3rd game in 4 nights, but they are one of the better conditioned teams in the NBA and have covered 13 of their L/17 under those perimeters. 

MINNESOTA is 0-9 ATS L/9 off a win against a division rival, which happened against Denver last time out (111-108)

Timberwolves are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.Timberwolves are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.Suns are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.Suns are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 home games.Home team is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.

Play on the Phoenix Suns to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Two Eastern Conference rivals the Washington Wizards and Boston Celtics prepare to do battle tonight . These teams have no real love for each other, with Boston getting the upper hand in the most recent conflict winning 117-108 and also won the first meeting . Washington has been red hot, having won 8 of their L/10 and 13 straight at home. Meanwhile, the Celtics had won won 7 of 8 before dropping their two most recent games, but are rested and ready to go after a few days off. The bottom line here from a betting perspective ,  the Celtics current lineup  matchup very well vs  the Wizards according to a head to head system I created 9 years ago, which factors in fatigue, which Washington should be experiencing at the moment, with this being their 6th game in 8 days. WASHINGTON is 9-21 ATS L/30 in home games when playing 6 or more games in 10 days.

Celtics are 21-6 ATS L/27 in road games versus upper tier offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game and 12-4 ATS  in road games versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game this season. Boston is a perfect 7-0 ATS as a road favorite of 3 points or less this season.

Boston Celtics to cover  1 unit reg selection 

The Raptors are in a slump right now and will play without their leading scorer DeMar Rozen tonight, but still have the depth needed to make a game of this tilt vs San Antonio. After all its not like, the Spurs are completely healthy at the moment, as Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker and Paul Gasol are all banged up and doubtful to play tonight and if they do play, they will be less than 100%. Look for the Raptors in their current desperate state to come out on fire tonight, and give the visiting Spurs more than they bargained for.

SAN ANTONIO is 4-13 ATS L/17 versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game - 2nd half of the season dating back to last season. 

Toronto Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Bulls and the Magic are both struggling. Both have obvious weaknesses, but my own matchup data suggests that Orlando has the advantage here at home. 

Bulls are 0-5 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Orlando.

CHICAGO is 7-15 ATS L/22 when playing against a team with a losing record this season. CHICAGO is 7-21 ATS L/28 against Southeast division opponents.

Play on the Orlando Magic to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Pacers are coming off a three-game road trip that saw them drop the final two games at the Los Angeles Lakers and Utah Jazz on Friday and Saturday. Now a little jet lagged, they go against a  team that has seen Seven of their  last 13 losses come by five or fewer points. Most recently the Knicks despite of racking up losses, are still extremely competitive, as their  last three losses came by a total of six points. What Im betting here is that they remain competitive and get us the cover.

 Knicks are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Central.Knicks are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games following a ATS loss.INDIANA is 7-16 ATS L/23 when the total is greater than or equal to 210 this season.

Play on the NY Knicks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Cleveland Cavaliers enter this game off a heartbreaking OT loss to San Antonio , and will now be in a letdown situation, entering a game against a struggling New Orleans team that will not have them overly motivated. Meanwhile, the Pelicans after being absolutely humiliated vs Brooklyn last time out, allowing 143 points and now  are a team that desires to get back some respect.The Pelicans HC Gentry was livid after that effort and really hammered his team with a verbal tirade. With payback also on the agenda, for a loss earlier this season on the road vs the Cavaliers, Jan 2, ( 90-82) I expect the Pelcians to come out on fire here, and get us the cover.Home underdogs like the Pelicans - revenging a road loss vs opponent, off an upset loss by 15 points or more as a favorite are 49-19 ATS dating back 21 seasons.NEW ORLEANS is 21-8 ATS L/29  in home games versus top tier teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game.

New Orleans Pelicans to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Milwaukee Bucks are in a slump,  and will be primed  to kick start  a more positive tone to their struggling ways with a win at home vs a explosive Houston Rockets team , that has shown inconsistencies of late losing 4 of their L/7 SU. MILWAUKEE is 17-6 ATS L/23 in home games after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games  and is 36-19 ATS L/54 off 3 or more consecutive road losses.HOUSTON is 19-31 ATS L/50 as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points .

Play on the Milwaukee Bucks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Suns went into NY last night and upset the Knicks, and now play a Raptors team that has looked tired both mentally/phsically in recent games, and is off back to back losses. The Raptors lost 99-91  to the Suns in Phoenix on Dec. 29, and many pundits now are expecting payback, but in my usual contrarian way believe that the Suns actually matchup well here, especially with the Dinos struggling. You don't always get what you want, as the rip from one the Rolling Stones songs suggests. TORONTO is  just 6-16 ATS L/22 revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite dating back to last season, and s 19-33 ATS L/52 revenging a same season loss vs opponent. The Suns have covered 7 straight in this series. 

Play on the Phoenix Suns to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Los Angeles Lakers won't have injured D'Angelo Russell for Sunday's game and that is a big blow to the flow of this young team. The Mavericks may not exactly inspire bettors with their recent performances, but, they are more than capable of beating a inexperienced opponent at home in Mark Cuban land, with a key catalyst missing. 

LA LAKERS are 6-19 ATS L/25 vs. good free throw shooting teams like Mavs - making 76% or more of their attempts this season.DALLAS is 16-7 ATS L/23 vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season. An interesting anomaly/trend shows the Lakers are 0-6 ATS in Sunday road games, while the Mavericks are perfect 11-0 ATS in their L/11 Sunday home games. 

Play on Dallas to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Golden State is looking unstoppable at the moment, and that is why in part why the linesmakers have slapped such a big road fav line in this affair vs a lower tier Orlando side, that has looked less than magical this season. However, it must be noted that the Magic have covered 7 of their L/8 as home dogs of 6 points or more and is 9-1 ATS L/10 as an underdog of 10 or more points. Meanwhile,  GOLDEN STATE is just  2-15 ATS L/17 versus lower tier teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last few seasons. After three big games vs Cleveland ,Oklahoma City and Houston, I will not be surprised if the Dubs, run into a natural letdown spot here, and play down to their opponents. 

Orlando Magic to cover

Milwaukee after a four game losing streak, will be primed to rebound here vs a Miami Heat team that is just 7-13 SU at home and that they matchup well against according to my own personal matchup statistics data as was the case on Jan 13 in a 116-108 win at home. MILWAUKEE is 24-12 ATS  after 2 or more consecutive losses dating back to last season. MIAMI is 18-32 ATS L/50 vs top tier  offensive teams like the Bucks - scoring 103+ points/game. HC Kidd of  The Bucks have won 7 of the L/9 meetings in this series and 3 of the L/4 played in Miami. 

Milwaukee to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Indiana has been on a hot run lately, but their recent road trip, and a hard fought come from behind victory last time out against Sacramento will have them on tired legs tonight's, vs a LA Lakers side they will over look.I know the Lakers have dropped five in a row and 21 of their past 26 contests after a 10-10 start, but tonight I very much expect they will make a game out of this, and get us the cover.LA LAKERS are 21-9 ATS L/30 in home games after 4 or more consecutive losses .

INDIANA is 1-9 ATS L/10 in road games vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season and are s 1-8 ATS in road games versus poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game this season and are also 3-11 ATS L/14 in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.

 NBA Underdogs like the Lakers - a lower tier  defensive team - shooting pct defense of 48% or better on the season against opponent hot shooting team like the Pacers - 2 straight games making 50% or more of their shots  are 52-22 70% ATS dating back 20 seasons.

Play on the LA Lakers to cover 1 unit reg selection

The teams the Hawks and the Bulls meet in Atlanta on Friday and then in Chicago next Wednesday.The Hawks, who have a five-game winning streak against the Bulls, won 115-107 at home in the first meeting and matchup very well vs Chicago. The Hawks outrebounded the Bulls 49-30 back in November and will once again be the difference maker.ATLANTA is 25-12 ATS L/37 in home games versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game on the season over the last few seasons. 

CHICAGO is 1-8 ATS  versus good passing teams, averaging 23 or more assists/game this season losing SU by an average of 12.5 ppg. CHICAGO is 7-20 ATS L/27 against Southeast division opponents over the last 2 seasons. CHICAGO is 12-23 ATS L/35  as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons. 

Play on the Atlanta Hawks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

 Philadelphia enters this game playing some of their best basketball of the season, and are off upsetting the Toronto Raptors last time out, and will now be in a natural let down spot. With that said, I am still not sold on this young 76ers team, and tonight I instead will back the Portland Trail Blazers. I know the Blazers do not inspire alot of bettors, but they are still an explosive team, offensively that can beat any team in this league on any given night and must not be disrespected here despite of some struggles this season. 

Play on Portland to cover

The Raptors may have over looked Philadelphia last time out and suffered a upset loss. Now however, I expect they will be ready to bounce back against the Charlotte Hornets. In that first meeting on Nov. 11, the Raptors came out ahead, 113-111. A big difference -from then  to now is that Raptors did not have free agent  forward/center Jared Sullinger in the lineup -- but on Friday night they will.The 6-foot-9, top tier defensive player Im betting will be the difference maker. NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Hornets  - revenging a home loss vs opponent against opponent off a road loss against a division rival are 5-30 ATS dating back 5 seasons.

CHARLOTTE is 5-18 ATS L/23 vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more of their attempts this season. CHARLOTTE is 1-9 ATS L/10 against Atlantic division opponents this season.

Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The LA Clippers enter this game missing two key players from their lineup, Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, but still must not be underestimated on their own home floor.  Despite of being short handed, the Clippers face a struggling Minnesota team,  that has lost its last two games on the road against the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Mavericks and are 3-6 SU in their last nine trips to the hardwood.Minnesota biggest problems is turnovers, and are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for 21st in the league heading into Wednesday's  NBA tilts. Not taking care of the ball will be their downfall again tonight. 

Play on the LA Clippers to cover 1 unit reg selection

Denver is playing some pretty good basketball of late, having won three straight, while San Antonio, despite of being a top tier team, has a tendency to let lower tier teams hang around alot longer than necessary, which gives credence to suggesting we take the points with the visitors tonight. The Nuggets are averaging 130.7 points and 33 assists per game during their winning streak, are viable underdogs in this spot. DENVER is 32-18 ATS  as a road underdog dating back to last season.

Nuggets are 21-6-1 ATS in their last 28 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.Spurs are 6-15-1 ATS in their last 22 Thursday games.Nuggets are 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings in San Antonio.

Denver Nuggets to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Knicks sprung an upset last time out via a 117-106 win over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, the Knicks ( are right back at it on Thursday when they host the Washington Wizards, but now they are on tired legs and short handed with  Porzingis, Noah, and Thomas all out. Meanwhile, the Wizards a team that has won 14 of their L/20 SU are fairly healthy, with key catalyst John Wall playing well. It must be noted that  NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like NYK - off an upset win as a road underdog are 115-176 ATS for a 61% go against conversion rate for bettors dating back 5 seasons. Also relevant to this tilt is the fact that Home underdogs like NYK - revenging a same season loss vs opponent, extremely tired team - playing their 4th game in 5 days are just 1-25 ATS L/26 dating back 5 seasons, for a go against conversion rate of 96%. ( On Nov 17 - Washington defeated NYK by a 119-112 count, for their 7th win in their L/8 tries in this series, which includes 3 straight wins at MSG. 

Play on the Washington Wizards to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Miami Heat are coming off their most impressive underdog victory of the season vs the Houston Rockets (109-103), and the Dallas Mavericks are the hottest they have been all season long winning 3 straight. The Heat have four players competing at a top tier level right now -- point guard Goran Dragic, center Hassan Whiteside and reserves Tyler Johnson and James Johnson and despite of a fairly ugly record are capable of upending a Mavericks team that is just 6-16 SU on the road this season. It must be noted that teams like Dallas where the line is +3 to -3  - off an upset win as a road underdog, a lower tier  team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record like Miami are just 10-32 ATS dating back 5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 76% for bettors.(Dallas 99 Chicago 98 a 4.5 point dog win)

 MIAMI is 10-0 ATS L/10 after allowing 100 points or more 3 straight games dating back to last season,( which has just happened)

Mavericks are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 vs. NBA Southeast.Heat are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.Heat are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Southwest.avericks are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the Miami Heat to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Sacramento and Indiana are two inconsistent sides.  Indiana has been hot of late, but have played poorly on the rod this season losing 15 o 20 games. The Pacers also looked jet legged in their last tilt a 98-95 win vs New Orleans, after coming home after a game in London England and now Im betting they really feel the full effects of it tonight in a Northern California time zone . INDIANA is 0-9 ATS L/9 in road games vs. good free throw shooting teams - making 76% or more  of their attempts this season and is 1-8 ATS  in road games versus terrible defensive teams - allowing 103+ points/game this season. INDIANA is 1-10 ATS L/11 in road games after 1 or more consecutive wins this season.

Play on the Sacramento Kings to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Golden State enters this game off a very physical affair vs the Cleveland Cavaliers last time out, in a lopsided win, that they looked like they were really up for. Now in a natural letdown spot, I expect they may not be as focused, going up against a Oklahoma City squad they have beaten 4 straight times. Considering the big DD, line favoring the Dubs,  it becomes obvious at least to me, that  the public is now paying a premium when backing the Warriors, thus according to my own numbers giving us value on the underdog line with a capable Thunder squad that is 8-1 ATS after playing 2 consecutive road games(this is the Thunders 4th straight road game). The Thunder lost to the LA Clippers last time out by a 120-98 count but have proven resilient for their betting backers covering 10 of their L/12 after a loss by 10 or more points, and are  14-3 ATS L/17 after allowing 100 or more points in a previous game, and are also 6-1 ATS  off a SU loss.

OKLAHOMA CITY is 12-4 ATS L/16 versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game on the season this season. Warriors are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. Western Conference and 1-6 ATS L/7 with 1 days rest and are just 2-5 ATS in their L/7 at home.

Play on Oklahoma City Thunder to cover 1 unit reg selection

The Orlando Magic are playing their final game of their current road trip against a New Orleans Pelicans team that just concluded its longest trip of the season. Teams like the Pelicans a tired side, off an extended trip usually take time to acclimate back into a home environment, and tonight in their first game back in the bayou I will not be surprised by an uninspired performance. With New Orleans  All-Star forward Anthony Davis  falling hard and suffering a hip contusion and sprained thumb last time out he may not be 100% here and to valuable to push into action tonight and if he does suit up limited minutes and fatigue will play a role.  There are no sure bets in the NBA, , so despite of Orlando's perceived weaknesses are still capable of being competitive and possibly pulling off an upset. Especially considering, NEW ORLEANS is 13-24 ATS make  as a favorite dating back to last season. Meanwhile, ORLANDO is 26-11 ATS L/37 in road games in non-conference games.

Play on the Orlando Magic to cover

The Hawks have won nine of their last 10, including a 108-107 triumph over the New York Knicks on Monday afternoon, buy in my usual contrarian fashion Im betting on their red hot ways to come to an abrupt end in this road game, as my number suggest the wrong team is favored despite of the Hawks current form.

DETROIT is 22-10 ATS L/32 in home games versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game on the season over the last 3 seasons.ATLANTA is 4-16 ATS L/20 in road games after playing 3 consecutive games as favorite

NBA Road favorites like Atlanta - red hot team - having won 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) playing a losing team are 23-50 for a 68% go against ATS conversion rate .

Play on the Detroit Pistons to cover 1 unit reg selection

Philadelphia has been playing some very competitive basketball of late,   covering 7 of their L/8 , but that will have the talented Raptors very ready for them in this spot. The Raptors are currently in top form having won and covered 4 straight, after blowing a lead and suffering a hurtful loss to the Houston Rockets, and are very dangerous opponents for all comers at the present time. Toronto has won 10 straight meetings in this series, and are 5-0 in their L? visits to the City of Brotherly Love.

TORONTO is 21-9 ATS L/30 versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game this season and 18-5 ATS versus poor fouling drawing sides shooting an average o less than 24 FTs a game.

Play on the Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection

Youth and inexperience continue to plague the LA Lakers as they are mired in a deep slump after a 10-10 start to their campaign. as they have lost four straight, and 20 of their L/25 tilts. They now go against a Denver side, that has won two straight, averaging a whopping 132.5 ppg on offense and has shown flashes of brilliance this season. It must also be noted that the offensively explosive Nuggets have won 6 straight at Staples vs the Lakers, and must not be underestimated vs a weak defensive team, that allows 110.2 ppg. Denver has covered 19 of their L/26 on the road vs a team like LAL that allows +103 or more ppg.The Nuggets are also 31-18 L/49 ATS as road dogs.

Play on the Denver Nuggets to cover 1 unit reg selection

Indiana had a 5 game winning streak snapped last time out vs Denver, by a 140-112 count in London England and will now be ready to rebound at home  where they are 15-5 SU vs a New Orleans side on tired legs, that will be playing the final tilt of a 5 game road trip. These two teams played earlier this season, with the Pelicans beating  the Pacers 102-95 in New Orleans, but it must be noted that the Pelicans have not won in Indiana since the 2010 season, and Im betting the well rested Pacers get their revenge and more importantly get us the cover. INDIANA is 17-6 ATS  in home games revenging a same season loss vs opponent and s 20-8 ATS  in home games revenging a road loss vs opponent. INDIANA is 16-6 ATS  when playing 4 or less games in 10 days dating back to last season.

Play on the Indiana Pacers to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The New York Knicks are coming off an emotionally charged win last time out against the Chicago Bulls that they desperately needed, and come into this game on very tired legs after having played 7 games in the L/10 days. Add to that they are expected to be without, key contributor Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles), which puts them at a disadvantage vs a quality side . Meanwhile, Toronto after  playing a lazy game against Brooklyn last time out, but still getting a lopsided victory , will be better prepared to play a full game, after their coach Dwayne Casey was critical of his teams lack of intensity, allowing an inferior Brooklyn team to hang around for to long. Quote: "I commend our guys for finding a way, that's what our league is all about, but you can't play with fire like that and let a team hang around, hang around, hang around. End Quote: Now after lighting a proverbial fuse under his team, I expect they come out here with a top tier effort. 

TORONTO is 10-1 ATS L/11 after a home game where both teams score 100 or more points this seasons, which happened in a 132-113 beat-down of Brooklyn.TORONTO is 16-5 ATS L/21 versus poor foul drawing teams - attempting 24 or less free throws/game this season, and  22-12 ATS L/34 versus teams who attempt 18 or more 3 point shots/game on the season this season like NYK.

Play on the Toronto Raptors to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The New Orleans Pelicans prepare to play their 2nd straight game without the services of their top play all Anthony Davis against the Chicago Bulls tonight. I know the Pelicans won last time out without him in the lineup, but that was against lowly Brooklyn. Tonight despite of the Bulls dealing with a flu that has plagued the team this week, are getting better according to reports and must not be underestimated on their own home floor. It must be noted that from a long term trends data base that NBA teams where the line is +3 to -3 like New Orleans - off a road win, a bad team, winning 25% to 40% of their games on the season are just 23-56 ATS for a go against 71% conversion rate. 

Play on the Chicago Bulls to cover 1 unit reg selection 

OklahomaCity enters into this contest against Minnesota having beaten them twice already this season by double digits and maybe over looking their opponents in this spot. That however, I feel would be a mistake vs a side that will be primed to exact some revenge and is in top form after beating a top tier  Houston team last time out . Minnesota is 10-4 ATS hosting this series in and 6-1 ATS when they have a .300 record or better. 

Play on the Minnesota Timberwolves to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The NY Knicks come into tonights game against  the Chicago Bulls off an embarrassing loss last night to the Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks were up as much as 17 points in that game, and also blew a late lead and than lost on a buzzer beater. With that said, it must be recognized that pro teams do not like to be embarrassed, and Im sure after some soul searching will come out here focused and ready for some redemption. The Knicks won the first meeting, 117-104, in Chicago on Nov. 4 and matchup well agains the Bulls. 

NEW YORK is 9-0 ATS L/9 in home games after a division game over the dating back to last season.

 NBA Road teams where the line is +3 to -3 like Chicago - revenging a home loss vs opponent against opponent off a road loss against a division rival are 2-24 ATS. 

Play on NY Knicks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Oklahoma City is a team that depends far to much one thier one man band, Russel Westbrook. By slowing Westbrook and keying on him, teams are beginning to have some measured successes vs the Thunder. I know Steven Adams and Enes Kanter are fine players and provide alternate options for the Thunder attack, but Westbrook is the key. With that said, I expect the tenacious and never say die Memphs Grizzlies, a team, built to compete with this type of team, will have the upper hand behind the big three of Mike Conley at point guard and Marc Gasol at center and Zach Randolph off the bench. It must be noted Memphis already beat the Thunder (114-80) in their only meetings this season, and I'm betting they will frustrate them again tonight and get us the cover. 

Grizzlies are 13-4 ATS in their last 17 vs. Western Conference.Grizzlies are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 vs. NBA Northwest.

Memphis to cover  1 unit reg selection 

Both Washington and Boston played last night, so both are a little tired. However, the Celtics are one of the better conditioned teams in the NBA, and are 5-0-1 ATS off a loss and 9-1 ATS in their L/10 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes of the previous day. Meanwhile, the Wizards are 4-11 ATS in their last 15 games playing on 0 days rest and just  5-15 ATS L/20 after a close win by 3 points or less , which ahppened last night in a come from behind vicotry vs the Chicago Bulls 101-99. 

Washington clobbered the Celtics back in Novemeber at home by a 118-93 count, and now the host Celtics have revenge on board. The Celtics have coverd cover 31 of their L/46 in revenge mode vs Eastern Conference opposition. Favorite is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings. 

Play on Celtics to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Philadelphia has won 3 of their L/4 games overall and have covered 4 straight, but Im going against their flow here, as they no longer will have the ability to catch teams napping and not preparing for them properly, because of their current form. With that said, I expect  the slumping and desperae  Knicks come in here wide awake, and ready to get themselves a rare win  vs a young team they can beat. The Knicks have won 4 straight meetings in this series dating back to last season. 

Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home which happened last time out. Knicks are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 road games.76ers are 8-20 ATS in their last 28 vs. NBA Atlantic.76ers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.Knicks are 11-3 ATS in the last 14 meetings in Philadelphia.

NBA  teams where the line is +3 to -3 like the Sixrs - off an upset win as a road underdog, a lower tier team (25% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record are just 8-32 ATS dating back to the 2011/12 season for a powerful 80% go against conversion rate for bettors. ( Philly beat Brooklyn last time out as dogs)

Play on the NY Knicks to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Utah   should be a little tired here against the defending champs after a 5 game road trip, which ended in a hard fought 88-79 loss to Memphis last time out. Despite of  the Jazz being healthy and at full strength the Cavaliers are still the superior side, and must be respected laying laying low single digits.

UTAH is 2-10 ATS  as an underdog this season. Jazz are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up loss.Cavaliers are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

Play on Cleveland to cover 1 unit reg selection 

The Atlanta Hawks are on their best run of the season with 6 straight wins. But with the media frenzy about Atlanta  trades that are going on right now  their  positive flow I am betting will be disrupted  against Brooklyn tonight. 

BROOKLYN is 39-22 ATS  versus teams who average 53 or more rebounds/game  like Atlanta on the season dating back a few seasons. 

 Road favorites like the Hawks -  red hot team - having won 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) playing a below .500 opponent like Brooklyn are just 22-49 ATS L/71. 

Brooklyn to cover 1 unit reg selection 

Chicago enters this game- having won 3 straight before a loss , last time out to Oklahoma City 109-94. They are also playing tonight without Jimmy Butler, which has directly inflated this line to a point where I feel comfortable, backing the Bulls to cover the bloated number. (Bulls are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a double-digit loss at home.)Meanwhile, Washington ,  returns home after a 107-101 win Sunday at Milwaukee. It must be noted that WASHINGTON is 11-26 ATS L/37 after a win by 6 points or less .

Underdog is 17-5 ATS in the last 22 meetings.

Home favorites of 10 or more points the Wizards - an explosive offensive team (102 PPG plus ) against a good offensive team (98-102 PPG), after allowing 100 points or more 2 straight games have covered just 10 of the L/42 games, for a go against 76% conversion rate.

The Knicks lost to the Pelcians by 12 poins on Dec 30th and now have revenge on board. The Pelicans are 0-3 SU/ATS facing revenge this season. I know New Orleans Anthony Davis continues, to score in bunches , but his team continues to play some very inconsistent  hoops, as they rank  21st in the league in scoring average (102.2 ppg) and 19 in opposition scoring (105.6) and once again look like fade material vs a Knicks side that plays their est basketball at home covering 8 of 10 games..

NEW ORLEANS is 10-22 ATS  versus lower tier  teams  like NYK- outscored by their opponents by 3+ points/game. NEW YORK is 21-12 ATS L/34 versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game and of .NEW YORK is 14-4 ATS  after allowing 110 points.NEW YORK is 12-2 ATS L/14 after a game where they failed to cover the spread this season which happened last time out. 

NBA teams like the Pelicans - terrible defensive team - allowing 103+ points/game on the season against opponent after allowing 110 points or more 2 straight games are 43-84 ATS for go against 66% conversion rate. 

Play on the NY Knicks to cover 1 unit reg selection

Irrational exuberance is the key phrase here when explaining how the LA media and their fans  are celebrating, after recording a season high in points in a dominating 127-100 rout of the Miami Heat on Friday night.The Lakers won for only fifth time in their last 20 games, so their still a long way from being the team they were a few seasons ago. Don't get me wrong the Lakers are a fine young team, but still have some core issues, especially on defense,  that have to be ironed out. What I am betting tonight however, is that their plans on upward momentum will be curtailed, by a Magic team playing some decent basketball of late despite of losing their L/2 and 4 of their L/5 as was evident when they held Houston to 100 points in offense in a close loss, which was 14 points under the Rockets season average last time out. The Magic already proved they matchup well vs the Lakers when they pounded them 109-90 back on Dec23rd. 

ORLANDO is 31-17 ATS  in road games after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games  and are 12-3 ATS  after playing 5 consecutive games as an underdog . LA LAKERS are 4-19 ATS L/23 after 2 straight games where both teams scored 100 points or more .

Play on the Orlando Magic to cover

Toronto matches up well against the visitng Houston Rockets, as was evident when they beat them 115-102 as 4 point dogs on the road back on Nov 23. Now in the rematch here on their own home floor the Raptors have the advantage again, despite of playing last night as they are one of the best conditiond teams in the NBA. (Raptors are 13-3-1 ATS in their last 17 games playing with no  rest.)

TORONTO is 15-3 ATS versus poor foul drawing teams - attempting 24 or less free throws/game this season.TORONTO is 12-3 ATS L/15  in home games versus good teams - outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game dating back to last season.Rockets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 vs. NBA Atlantic.Rockets are 1-8 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Toronto. 

Play on the Toronto Raptors to cover