Rocketmansports.net - Free Picks from Expert Hanidcappers

Become a Facebook Fan!

Follow Me on Twitter!

Basketball Archive
Date	Match Up	Rating	Score	Result	Profit	Lead Time	Analysis
11-07-19	Thunder v. Spurs -180		112-121	Win	100	15 h 32 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the San Antonio Spurs. The Oklahoma City Thunder are 3-4, which is pretty solid for a team going through a rebuild. All three of those wins have come at home, and they are 0-2 on the road. The Spurs are 3-1 at home, and they are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games versus the Thunder. The Thunder are 2-6 ATS in the last eight meetings, and the home team has covered in each of the last five meetings. The favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. Pop isn't happy with the way the Spurs have played on defense, and he should have his troops well prepared for this game against an inferior opponent. Take SA. GL, Jesse Schule
11-06-19	76ers v. Jazz UNDER 211.5		104-106	Win	100	10 h 21 m	Show
This is a 10* play on PHI@UTAH to go Under the total. The Sixers are coming off their first loss of the season, and they might have trouble scoring here in Utah tonight. The Jazz are undefeated at home this season, and they rank first overall in the NBA in opponent's scoring average. They have allowed just 95.6 points per game this season, and they have been even tougher at home. Opponents have averaged just 90.6 points in Utah. The under is 5-0 in Utah's last five home games, and the under is 5-0 the Jazz last five games coming off a loss. These two teams have gone under in five straight meetings in Salt Lake City. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
11-05-19	Heat v. Nuggets -4.5		89-109	Win	100	11 h 19 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Denver Nuggets. The Miami Heat come into Denver with a 5-1 record, sitting first in the Eastern Conference. They might be playing a little over their heads though, and it's important to point out that two of their five wins have come against the Atlanta Hawks. This is a tough spot for an Eastern Conference team, playing on the road at altitude in Denver. A lot of people might not realize that Denver had the best home record in the NBA last season, going 34-7 at the Pepsi Center. Denver has won four of the last five head to head meetings, and the Heat are 4-9 ATS in the last 13 meetings in Denver. The Heat are 2-6-1 ATS in their last nine versus the NBA Northwest. Take DEN. GL, Jesse Schule.
11-04-19	Blazers -9.5 v. Warriors		118-127	Loss	-110	15 h 51 m	Show
8*
11-03-19	Jazz v. Clippers -4.5	Top	94-105	Win	100	23 h 42 m	Show
10*
11-02-19	76ers v. Blazers -119		129-128	Loss	-119	10 h 48 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Portland Trailblazers. Philly comes into Portland with a perfect 4-0 record, thanks to what Brett Bown calls "bully ball defense" and "smashmouth offense". it's real," he said. "Every time we can, we like to point to an example, 'Yup, this is Philly hard. Yup, that thing had an edge.' This is real. There's a spirit amongst our team that's authentic. It is Philadelphia and life moves on. That's part of it." Joel Embiid has been a big part of Philly's success, averaging over 23 points and 10 rebounds per game. He's serving the first game of a two game suspension tonight, and his production will be missed. Portland has won six of the last nine meetings, and five straight at home during that span. GL, Jesse Schule
11-02-19	Nuggets -175 v. Magic		91-87	Win	100	21 h 55 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Denver Nuggets. After losing at home to Dallas and then on the road at New Orleans, the Nuggets coach Mike Malone ripped his team. "We're a great talk team. We can talk before the season starts about all the things we want to accomplish, and we want to be a contending team," Malone said. "It's all bulls---. Don't tell me about it, show me. And right now we've got a lot of guys that aren't showing me much." This should be a focused team tonight in Orlando, and while the the Magic are able to compete with the majority of teams in the East, I don't fancy their chances against one of the best teams from the Western Conference. Denver is 6-0 straight up and 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings versus Orlando. Take DEN. GL, Jesse Schule.
10-28-19	Magic v. Raptors -4.5		95-104	Win	100	7 h 25 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Toronto Raptors. There is no doubt that Kawhi Leonard deserved plenty of credit for bringing a title to Toronto, but I believe that there is a false narrative that he did it by himself. Many people question how competitive the Raptors can be without Kawhi. I would point out that last year they actually had a higher winning percentage in games he missed due to load management, than they did in the games he played. This is also a team that finished at or near the top of the Eastern Conference several seasons in a row prior to the arrival of Kawhi. Players like Fred Van Fleet and Pascal Siakam should be primed to thrive in a greater role. I caution against sleeping on the Raptors, and I'll take them in tonight's game in Chicago with both teams playing the second game of a back to back. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
10-26-19	Pelicans +11.5 v. Rockets		123-126	Win	100	30 h 51 m	Show
8*
10-26-19	Raptors -142 v. Bulls		108-84	Win	100	17 h 47 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Toronto Raptors. There is no doubt that Kawhi Leonard deserved plenty of credit for bringing a title to Toronto, but I believe that there is a false narrative that he did it by himself. Many people question how competitive the Raptors can be without Kawhi. I would point out that last year they actually had a higher winning percentage in games he missed due to load management, than they did in the games he played. This is also a team that finished at or near the top of the Eastern Conference several seasons in a row prior to the arrival of Kawhi. Players like Fred Van Fleet and Pascal Siakam should be primed to thrive in a greater role. I caution against sleeping on the Raptors, and I'll take them in tonight's game in Chicago with both teams playing the second game of a back to back. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
10-23-19	Wizards v. Mavs -8.5		100-108	Loss	-108	13 h 9 m	Show
8*
10-22-19	Lakers v. Clippers +3.5		102-112	Win	100	16 h 58 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the LA Clippers. The Clippers were a playoff team last year and the Lakers were not. The Lakers are expected to be dramatically better with Anthony Davis, and so are the Clippers with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. The Lakers though are old, I don't like their depth, and I think it's inevitable that LeBron loses a step. The Clippers are shorthanded without Paul George, but the Lakers won't have Kyle Kuzma. Anthony Davis isn't 100 percent either, and I think this Lakers team is going to really struggle to live up to all the hype. My money is on Kawhi to become the NEW .. King of LA. Take KAWHI over LEBRON. GL, Jesse Schule
10-22-19	Pelicans v. Raptors -6.5		122-130	Win	100	15 h 17 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors. There is no doubt that Kawhi Leonard deserved plenty of credit for bringing a title to Toronto, but I believe that there is a false narrative that he did it by himself. Many people question how competitive the Raptors can be without Kawhi. I would point out that last year they actually had a higher winning percentage in games he missed due to load management, than they did in the games he played. This is also a team that finished at or near the top of the Eastern Conference several seasons in a row prior to the arrival of Kawhi. Players like Fred Van Fleet and Pascal Siakam should be primed to thrive in a greater role. I caution against sleeping on the Raptors, and I'll take them in a home opener against the short-handed Pelicans. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
06-13-19	Raptors +127 v. Warriors	Top	114-110	Win	127	8 h 59 m	Show
This is an 8* play on Toronto. I have been riding Toronto the whole way, with pending bets on the Raptors to win the series and Kawhi to win MVP. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors have all the momentum, coming off four straight wins over a Milwaukee team that had the best record in the NBA during the regular season. They cranked up the defense, and physically dominated the Bucks. The same approach could yield a similar result here in the NBA Finals against the Warriors. Toronto swept the season series, and the Raptors are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings. If Toronto's role players play the way they did in Games 5 and 6 against Milwaukee, they could win this series." Now KD is gone and isn't coming back. Cousins and Klay Thompson are banged up, and Looney is hurt. Toronto is the better team at this point. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
06-10-19	Warriors v. Raptors -118	Top	106-105	Loss	-118	27 h 13 m	Show
This is a 10* play on Toronto. For all but the first 5-6 minutes of the third quarter in Game 2, the Raptors have completely dominated this series versus the Warriors. They appear to be younger, healthier, and depth has been a huge advantage. The Warriors are hoping to get KD back in Game 5, but I am not sure that it will be enough. Surely if KD isn't 100 percent healthy he could actually be a defensive liability. I have been riding Toronto the whole way, with pending bets on the Raptors to win the series and Kawhi to win MVP. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors have all the momentum, coming off four straight wins over a Milwaukee team that had the best record in the NBA during the regular season. They cranked up the defense, and physically dominated the Bucks. The same approach could yield a similar result here in the NBA Finals against the Warriors. Toronto swept the season series, and the Raptors are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings. If Toronto's role players play the way they did in Games 5 and 6 against Milwaukee, they could win this series." Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
06-07-19	Raptors +170 v. Warriors		105-92	Win	170	10 h 41 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Toronto Raptors. For all but the first 5-6 minutes of the third quarter in Game 2, the Raptors have completely dominated this series versus the Warriors. They appear to be younger, healthier, and depth has been a huge advantage. The Warriors are hoping to get Klay Thompson back in Game 4, but I am not sure that it will be enough. Surely if Klay isn't 100 percent healthy he could actually be a defensive liability. I have been riding Toronto the whole way, with pending bets on the Raptors to win the series and Kawhi to win MVP. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors have all the momentum, coming off four straight wins over a Milwaukee team that had the best record in the NBA during the regular season. They cranked up the defense, and physically dominated the Bucks. The same approach could yield a similar result here in the NBA Finals against the Warriors. Toronto swept the season series, and the Raptors are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings. If Toronto's role players play the way they did in Games 5 and 6 against Milwaukee, they could win this series." Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
06-05-19	Raptors +5.5 v. Warriors	Top	123-109	Win	100	59 h 53 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Toronto Raptors. Toronto heads to Oakland with the series tied 1-1, and they will be getting a handful of points as the underdog here in Game 3. The Raptors have been the better team, in all but six of minutes in the 3rd quarter of Game 2. They have dominated the first half of both the first two games so far, and I expect them to do it again in Oakland. The Warriors aren't a first half team, as they often wait until the third quarter before they really get going. They might struggle to do that tonight if Clay Thompson can't Play. Looney is out, and Cousins isn't 100 percent. Andre Iguodala has to he held together by duct tape. The 35 year old has battled injuries for the entire post-season, and he suffered an upper body injury in Game 2. Pascal Siakam should be better in Game 2, and as long as the Raptors stay out of foul trouble they should have a chance to win this game. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
06-02-19	Warriors v. Raptors -130		109-104	Loss	-130	46 h 26 m	Show
This is a 6* play on the Raptors. I had Toronto in Game 1, and I have pending futures on Toronto to win the series, lead after three games, and Kawhi to win MVP. After Game 1 I was tempted to come back with Golden State and hedge my bets in Game 2, but I am sticking with the Raptors. Here is what I said before the series started: "There is a good reason why the Golden State Warriors are a 3-1 favorite to win the series, but a slight underdog in Game 1 in Toronto. The Warriors have had nine days off, and they could be caught a little flat footed here in Game 1. The Raptors are an excellent home team, with a record of 40-11. The Raptors have all the momentum, coming off four straight wins over a Milwaukee team that had the best record in the NBA during the regular season. They cranked up the defense, and physically dominated the Bucks. The same approach could yield a similar result here in the NBA Finals against the Warriors. Toronto swept the season series, and the Raptors are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings. If Toronto's role players play the way they did in Games 5 and 6 against Milwaukee, they could win this series." Even after losing Gake 1, I still don't think Steve Kerr and the Warriors are taking Toronto seriously. I expect to see a confident Toronto team come out hard in Game 2. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-30-19	Warriors v. Raptors +1	Top	109-118	Win	100	78 h 17 m	Show
This is an 10* play on the Toronto Raptors. There is a good reason why the Golden State Warriors are a 3-1 favorite to win the series, but a slight underdog in Game 1 in Toronto. The Warriors have had nine days off, and they could be caught a little flat footed here in Game 1. The Raptors are an excellent home team, with a record of 40-11. The Raptors have all the momentum, coming off four straight wins over a Milwaukee team that had the best record in the NBA during the regular season. They cranked up the defense, and physically dominated the Bucks. The same approach could yield a similar result here in the NBA Finals against the Warriors. Toronto swept the season series, and the Raptors are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meetings. If Toronto's role players play the way they did in Games 5 and 6 against Milwaukee, they could win this series. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-25-19	Bucks v. Raptors UNDER 213.5		94-100	Win	100	41 h 8 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Under. I had the Raptors in the first half of Game 3, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Raptors got off to a good start in Game 1, leading 59-51 at halftime. They fell apart in the fourth quarter, losing by a final score of 108-100. They return home down 0-2, and they face a must win game as they try to get back into this series. The Bucks come into Game 3 in complete control, and it's tough to see them matching Toronto's intensity here in the first half of this game. The game plan for Milwaukee is likely to weather the storm early, try to keep the game close and steal one late (similar to Game 1)." Toronto has flipped the script by winning three straight and pushing the Bucks to the brink. They have figured out a way to slow down Giannis, forcing him to make shots. There are no pretenders in the post-season, and it's beginning to look like the Bucks weren't all they were cracked up to be. The Raptors shot just 36.9 percent from the field in Game 5, and in an elimination game in the conference finals, we should expect no easy buckets. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-25-19	Bucks v. Raptors -135		94-100	Win	100	41 h 8 m	Show
This is a 5* play on Toronto. I had the Raptors in the first half of Game 3, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Raptors got off to a good start in Game 1, leading 59-51 at halftime. They fell apart in the fourth quarter, losing by a final score of 108-100. They return home down 0-2, and they face a must win game as they try to get back into this series. The Bucks come into Game 3 in complete control, and it's tough to see them matching Toronto's intensity here in the first half of this game. The game plan for Milwaukee is likely to weather the storm early, try to keep the game close and steal one late (similar to Game 1)." Toronto has flipped the script by winning three straight and pushing the Bucks to the brink. They have figured out a way to slow down Giannis, forcing him to make shots. There are no pretenders in the post-season, and it's beginning to look like the Bucks weren't all they were cracked up to be. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-23-19	Raptors v. Bucks -6.5		105-99	Loss	-107	22 h 52 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Milwaukee Bucks. Give the Raptors a ton of credit for grinding out back to back wins at home to tie this series heading back to Milwaukee for Game 5. Those wins came at a cost though, as Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry are banged up. Lowry has a hand injury that has really been bothering him, and Kawhi was visibly limping in Game 4. The Bucks are back home with their backs against the wall, and they will be desperate to get off to a good start in Game 5. The books blew the doors off in the first half of Game 3, leading by a score of 64-39. I expect a similar result here in Game 5. Take MIL. GL, Jesse Schule
05-21-19	Bucks v. Raptors +2.5		102-120	Win	100	20 h 4 m	Show
I had the Raptors in the first half of Game 3, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Raptors got off to a good start in Game 1, leading 59-51 at halftime. They fell apart in the fourth quarter, losing by a final score of 108-100. They return home down 0-2, and they face a must win game as they try to get back into this series. The Bucks come into Game 3 in complete control, and it's tough to see them matching Toronto's intensity here in the first half of this game. The game plan for Milwaukee is likely to weather the storm early, try to keep the game close and steal one late (similar to Game 1)." I expect Toronto to build on their momentum coming off a double-OT win. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-20-19	Warriors -146 v. Blazers		119-117	Win	100	8 h 27 m	Show
This is an 8* play on GSW. So the Blazers are coming off a heartbreaking loss in Game 3, and now they could get swept here tonight in Game 4. The only thing you can tell me they are playing for at this point is their pride. So while they might earn a bit of respect by avoiding a sweep, the reward for a victory tonight would be to get on a plane and go to Oakland, where they will surely be blown out in Game 5. Damian Lillard would be forced to play another elimination game with a sore hamstring and separated ribs. No NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 series deficit, and I can't see the Blazers having a lot left in the tank here tonight. Take GSW. GL, Jesse Schule
05-16-19	Blazers v. Warriors -7.5		111-114	Loss	-104	25 h 25 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Warriors. The Blazers had no answer for the Warriors in Game 1, especially Steph Curry. The two time MVP scored 36 points and hit nine three-pointers. Portland looked lost, and it appears the seven game series versus Denver took it's toll. Damian Lillard scored just 19 points on 4-of-12 shooting in Game 1, and he's now scored 22 or less in three of his last four games overall. He averaged less than 26 points per game during the regular season, but after a few heroic efforts in the first round versus Oklahoma City the bookmakers have set his points total at 26.5. The Blazers aren't saying anything about an apparent hamstring injury (he was seen grabbing the back of his leg and wincing in pain in Game 1) and I am sure he will continue to play through the pain. Kevin Durant might well be the most dominant scorer in the game, but the Warriors aren't bad without him. In fact in their last 29 games when Curry plays and Durant sits, the Warriors are a staggering 28-1. Take GS. GL, Jesse Schule
05-15-19	Raptors v. Bucks -6		100-108	Win	100	55 h 30 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Milwaukee Bucks. The Toronto Raptors are coming off a huge win in Game 7 on a buzzer beater by Kawhi Leonard. Raptors fans are in good spirits heading into the Eastern Conference Finals, but they could be in for a huge let down in Game 1. When you look at the fact that Toronto shot just 38.2 percent in Game 7, you have to think they are lucky to have advanced to the Conference Finals. The Bucks won three of four in the season series, and they have covered the spread in four of the last five meetings. Aside from Kawhi Leonard, the rest of Toronto's starters have really struggled offensively. Khris Middleton, Eric Bledsoe and the Bucks starters have all played well, especially at home. "They've got a lot of weapons," Lowry said. "They're pretty deep and they shoot the ball as well as anybody, and they've got the one-man fast break in Giannis and then they've got a point guard (Bledsoe) who's really, really good and physical. They've got George Hill coming off the bench and playing well." The Raptors won't compete in this series unless they play a lot better than they did against Philly. Take MIL. GL, Jesse Schule
05-14-19	Blazers +8 v. Warriors		94-116	Loss	-109	33 h 32 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Blazers. The Bookmakers obviously aren't giving Portland much credit for winning a Game 7 at Denver where the Nuggets had the best home record in the league this season. They don't seem to mind that Kevin Durant won't play, DeMarcus Cousins is still out, and Steph Curry might not be at 100 percent (remember he dislocated his finger in Game 2 versus the Rockets). The Blazers earned a split in the season series, winning in overtime at Oracle Arena in December. The Warriors have failed to cover in four of their last five home games, and they didn't beat Houston by more than seven points in any of the six games in their previous series. Take POR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-12-19	Blazers v. Nuggets UNDER 213.5		100-96	Win	100	6 h 44 m	Show
This is a 10* play on POR@DEN to go Under. Winning a Game 7 on the road isn't easy, and for Portland they will be playing at altitude in Denver where the Nuggets owned the best home record in the NBA this season. Denver has won just two of their three home games in this series, suffering a let down in Game 2. They won by a whopping 26 points (124-98) in the last game at the Pepsi Center. The Trail Blazers are 2-5-1 ATS in the last eight meetings in Denver, and they are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 Conference Semifinals games. The Nuggets were up by 14 points at halftime in Game 7 versus the Spurs, and they held San Antonio to just 34 first half points. Both teams will likely be fighting extra hard on defense tonight. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-09-19	Raptors -125 v. 76ers		101-112	Loss	-125	31 h 45 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Raptors. I bet on Toronto to win this series, and here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors were 3-1 against the Sixers during the regular season, but perhaps the most significant thing about the regular season series was that Kawhi Leonard didn't play in the one game that Philly won. The Sixers were 31-10 at home this season, but they had a losing record on the road. I am not convinced that this team is all that different that the team that lost in five games to Boston in last year's East Seminfinal. They lost all three games at Boston, and they lost Game 1 by 16 points. While they have since added Jimmy Butler, the health of Joel Embiid is in question. The Raptors on the other hand look a lot better with Kahwi Leonard and Marc Gasol than they did a year ago." The Rapors won Game 4 in Philly, and when their supporting cast shows up, they are by far the better team. With an ailing Embiid, the Sixers might be done. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-08-19	Rockets v. Warriors -5.5		99-104	Loss	-113	33 h 49 m	Show
This is a 7* play on the Warriors. The Warriors couldn't make a shot to save their lives in either of the two games in Houston. Steph Curry was 6-of-23 from beyond the arc in Games 3-4, and Klay Thompson was 3-for-12. Still Game 3 was decided in overtime and Game 4 was decided by just four points. Surely the Rockets hopes are slim if they are relying on the Warriors poor shooting to continue. Kevin Durant leads all scorers in the plaoffs averaging over 35 points per game, and he's likely due for another epic performance. Take GSW. GL, Jesse Schule
05-07-19	Blazers v. Nuggets -185	Top	98-124	Win	100	46 h 39 m	Show
This is a 10* play on Denver. The Nuggets seized all the momentum in this series with a gutsy win in Game 4. What was most impressive is how they responded to losing a 4 overtime thriller in Game 3. Watching the game it looked like Denver's depth was the difference. It doesn't have to be Nikola Jokic carrying the load when they can get 20+ points from the likes of Jamaal Murray, Paul Millsap or Will Barton. Here is what I said about Denver prior to Game 1: "Portland is coming off a shocking first round series win over Oklahoma State, but I think they are vulnerable to a let down here in Game 1 at Denver. The Blazers took full advantage of home court in round 1, winning all three of their home games. They will have to win on the road here if they want to get past Denver, and that's not going to be easy. The Nuggets had the best home record in the NBA in the regular season (34-7). Denver doesn't have the same problems that Oklahoma City has. Poor decision making by Russell Westbrook really cost the Thunder, and the Blazers can't count on the Nuggets beating themselves. The Blazers have lost six of the last seven head to head meetings versus Denver, and they have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five at the Pepsi Center." Take DEN. GL, Jesse Schule
05-06-19	Warriors v. Rockets UNDER 220.5	Top	108-112	Win	100	9 h 43 m	Show
This is a 10* play on GSW@HOU to go Under the total. I had the under in Game 3, and after a low scoring first half it was bitter disappointment as they piled on the points in the third quarter and then eventually went to overtime. I don't think the Warriors have any interest in allowing the Rockets to tie this series, and they should step up the defensive intensity in the first half of Game 4. Here is what I said prior to Game 3: "Game 1 of this series was a close, low scoring battle with the Warriors winning 104-100. Game 2 was shaping up to be a similar score through three quarters, before an offensive explosion of 67 points in the fourth quarter. The Rockets are now on the ropes, and Game 3 might as well be an elimination game. James Harden is banged up, taking a shot to the face in Game 2 that has left him with vision problems. Steph Curry dislocated a finger in the last game, and we can expect more bumps and bruises as this series goes on. These two teams have failed to reach the total in nine of the last 11 meetings, and the under is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings in Houston. The Rockets have failed to reach the total in seven straight when coming off an ATS loss." Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-06-19	Bucks v. Celtics -114		113-101	Loss	-114	32 h 54 m	Show
This is an 8* play on Boston. After earning a split in the first two games in Milwaukee, everything seemed to go wrong for Boston in Game 3 of this series at home. They got in foul trouble, they couldn't stop Giannis. Antetokounmpo scored 16 of his 32 points on his 22 free throw attempts. As bad as it was for the Celtics, they still had a lead at halftime in Game 3. I expect a better game out of Boston here in Game 4. Here is what I said before this series started: "So the Bucks were the better team in the regular season, and because of that they are a significant favorite in this second round series versus Boston. Granted they have home court advantage, so laying a few points would make plenty of sense. Giving Boston 8+ points though seems absolutely illogical to me. The last time these teams played each other, Boston won by a score of 117-113. The last time Boston played at Milwaukee they lost by a score of 98-97. Kyrie Irving is a proven playoff performer with a championship ring, and this Celtics team has proven itself in the post-season. Milwaukee is coming off a four game sweep of Detroit, a subpar team who's best player (Blake Griffin) was injured. I don't think that helps them prepare for the challenge they will face here versus the Celtics." Take BOS. GL, Jesse Schule
05-05-19	Nuggets v. Blazers -148		116-112	Loss	-148	8 h 55 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Blazers. Playing four overtime periods in Game 3 is going to take it's toll on both teams, but coming out on the wrong end of such a game is likely to be devastating. I had Portland in Game 3, and here is what I said before tip off: "The Nuggets looked pretty good in Game 1 of this series (I had Denver). I changed it up in Game 2 and took the under, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Nuggets won Game 1 in a high scoring affair, with both teams shooting over 50 percent from the field. I expect them to see plenty of push back from the Blazers in Game 2, and I expect those numbers to go down. In four home games against the Spurs, Denver allowed an average of 95 points per game. The under is 13-4 in Nuggets last 17 home games, and they are 6-0 ATS in their last six Conference Semifinals games." The Nuggets are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games versus teams with a winning home record." Take POR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-05-19	Raptors v. 76ers UNDER 215		101-96	Win	100	45 h 1 m	Show
This is an 8* play on TOR@PHI to go Under the total. I took the under in Game 3 of this series, and that was a bit of a lucky win for me after a low scoring second half. Here is what I said prior to tip off: "The Sixers shot 39 percent from the field and scored 95 points in their Game 2 win, and that says a lot about just how bad Toronto was offensively. While you have to give Philly credit for their play on defense, you can bet the Raptors will be better here in Game 3. Toronto has failed to reach the total in five straight road games, and the under is 7-1 in Toronto's last eight overall." The stakes are even higher for the Raptors tonight, and they might be without their second best player (Siakam). Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-04-19	Warriors v. Rockets UNDER 220	Top	121-126	Loss	-110	77 h 1 m	Show
This is a 10* play on GSW@HOU to go Under the total. Game 1 of this series was a close, low scoring battle with the Warriors winning 104-100. Game 2 was shaping up to be a similar score through three quarters, before an offensive explosion of 67 points in the fourth quarter. The Rockets are now on the ropes, and Game 3 might as well be an elimination game. James Harden is banged up, taking a shot to the face in Game 2 that has left him with vision problems. Steph Curry dislocated a finger in the last game, and we can expect more bumps and bruises as this series goes on. These two teams have failed to reach the total in nine of the last 11 meetings, and the under is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings in Houston. The Rockets have failed to reach the total in seven straight when coming off an ATS loss. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-03-19	Nuggets v. Blazers -180		137-140	Win	100	46 h 54 m	Show
This is an 8* play on Portland. The Nuggets looked pretty good in Game 1 of this series (I had Denver). I changed it up in Game 2 and took the under, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Nuggets won Game 1 in a high scoring affair, with both teams shooting over 50 percent from the field. I expect them to see plenty of push back from the Blazers in Game 2, and I expect those numbers to go down. In four home games against the Spurs, Denver allowed an average of 95 points per game. The under is 13-4 in Nuggets last 17 home games, and they are 6-0 ATS in their last six Conference Semifinals games." The Nuggets are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games versus teams with a winning home record. Take POR. GL, Jesse Schule
05-03-19	Bucks v. Celtics UNDER 220		123-116	Loss	-105	43 h 59 m	Show
This is an 8* play on MIL@BOS to go Under the total. I bet on the Celtics to win this series, so I am happy with Boston coming home with a split. While the Bucks ran away with Game 2, it was actually a close game early. Boston had a five point lead after the first quarter, and they trailed by just four points at halftime. Expect Boston to bounce back, they have covered the spread in six of their last seven home games versus Milwaukee. The last two times Milwaukee played in a playoff game in Boston, they failed to score 100 points in each of those games. Here is what I said before Game 1: "So the Bucks were the better team in the regular season, and because of that they are a significant favorite in this second round series versus Boston. Granted they have home court advantage, so laying a few points would make plenty of sense. Giving Boston 8+ points though seems absolutely illogical to me. The last time these teams played each other, Boston won by a score of 117-113. The last time Boston played at Milwaukee they lost by a score of 98-97. Kyrie Irving is a proven playoff performer with a championship ring, and this Celtics team has proven itself in the post-season. Milwaukee is coming off a four game sweep of Detroit, a subpar team who's best player (Blake Griffin) was injured. I don't think that helps them prepare for the challenge they will face here versus the Celtics." Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-03-19	Bucks v. Celtics -128	Top	123-116	Loss	-128	53 h 36 m	Show
This is a 10* play on Boston. I bet on the Celtics to win this series, so I am happy with Boston coming home with a split. While the Bucks ran away with Game 2, it was actually a close game early. Boston had a five point lead after the first quarter, and they trailed by just four points at halftime. Expect Boston to bounce back, they have covered the spread in six of their last seven home games versus Milwaukee. The last two times Milwaukee played in a playoff game in Boston, they failed to score 100 points in each of those games. Here is what I said before Game 1: "So the Bucks were the better team in the regular season, and because of that they are a significant favorite in this second round series versus Boston. Granted they have home court advantage, so laying a few points would make plenty of sense. Giving Boston 8+ points though seems absolutely illogical to me. The last time these teams played each other, Boston won by a score of 117-113. The last time Boston played at Milwaukee they lost by a score of 98-97. Kyrie Irving is a proven playoff performer with a championship ring, and this Celtics team has proven itself in the post-season. Milwaukee is coming off a four game sweep of Detroit, a subpar team who's best player (Blake Griffin) was injured. I don't think that helps them prepare for the challenge they will face here versus the Celtics." Take BOS. GL, Jesse Schule
05-02-19	Raptors v. 76ers UNDER 217		95-116	Win	100	19 h 29 m	Show
This is an 8* play on TOR@PHI to go Under the total. I took the Raptors to win this series, and I like them in Game 3 coming off a terrible home loss in Game 2. The Sixers shot 39 percent from the field and scored 95 points in their Game 2 win, and that says a lot about just how bad Toronto was offensively. While you have to give Philly credit for their play on defense, you can bet the Raptors will be better here in Game 3. Toronto has failed to reach the total in five straight road games, and the under is 7-1 in Toronto's last eight overall. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors were 3-1 against the Sixers during the regular season, but perhaps the most significant thing about the regular season series was that Kawhi Leonard didn't play in the one game that Philly won. The Sixers were 31-10 at home this season, but they had a losing record on the road. I am not convinced that this team is all that different that the team that lost in five games to Boston in last year's East Seminfinal. They lost all three games at Boston, and they lost Game 1 by 16 points. While they have since added Jimmy Butler, the health of Joel Embiid is in question. The Raptors on the other hand look a lot better with Kahwi Leonard and Marc Gasol than they did a year ago." Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
05-01-19	Blazers v. Nuggets UNDER 220	Top	97-90	Win	100	6 h 22 m	Show
This is a 10* play on POR@DEN to go Under the total. The Nuggets won Game 1 in a high scoring affair, with both teams shooting over 50 percent from the field. I expect them to see plenty of push back from the Blazers in Game 2, and I expect those numbers to go down. In four home games against the Spurs, Denver allowed an average of 95 points per game. The under is 13-4 in Nuggets last 17 home games, and they are 6-0 ATS in their last six Conference Semifinals games. We've seen a lot of talk about the officiating in these playoffs, but the consensus from the league seems to be to let them play. I think the total for tonight's game appears to be a little inflated, and I'll fade the big number. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
04-30-19	Rockets +6 v. Warriors	Top	109-115	Push	0	49 h 19 m	Show
This is a 10* play on Houston. The Rockets delivered a detailed report on last year's WC Final, suggesting that the officials were biased in favor of Golden State. Most people see this for what it is, a rather classless position for a franchise who's star player has earned a living on cheap foul calls. Still the squeaky wheel often gets the grease, and Harden will likely get a call or two in his favor tonight. If there's one thing that conspiracy theorists know about NBA officiating, it's that the league loves to extend a series. The Rockets lost Game 1 last year and responded with a huge win in Game 2. The Warriors have been rather sloppy of late, losing two of their last three at home and failing to cover in four of their last five home games against the Rockets. I'll take the points. Take HOU. GL, Jesse Schule
04-30-19	Celtics +7.5 v. Bucks		102-123	Loss	-110	47 h 46 m	Show
This is an 8* play on Boston. You don't want to overreact to the results of just one game, and just because Milwaukee lost Game 1 at home as the biggest favorite in the second round doesn't mean they can't win in Game 2. That being said, there is a difference between overreacting and failing to react at all. The results of Game 1 are not meaningless. Boston didn't just win, they didn't get lucky and steal the game. No sir, they dominated the game from start to finish, winning by a whopping 22 points. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "So the Bucks were the better team in the regular season, and because of that they are a significant favorite in this second round series versus Boston. Granted they have home court advantage, so laying a few points would make plenty of sense. Giving Boston 8+ points though seems absolutely illogical to me. The last time these teams played each other, Boston won by a score of 117-113. The last time Boston played at Milwaukee they lost by a score of 98-97. Kyrie Irving is a proven playoff performer with a championship ring, and this Celtics team has proven itself in the post-season. Milwaukee is coming off a four game sweep of Detroit, a subpar team who's best player (Blake Griffin) was injured. I don't think that helps them prepare for the challenge they will face here versus the Celtics." The bookmakers giving Boston +7.5 points in Game 2 tells me that they think the results of Game 1 are meaningless, and I disagree. Take BOS. GL, Jesse Schule
04-29-19	Blazers v. Nuggets -150		113-121	Win	100	33 h 14 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Denver Nuggets. Portland is coming off a shocking first round series win over Oklahoma State, but I think they are vulnerable to a let down here in Game 1 at Denver. The Blazers took full advantage of home court in round 1, winning all three of their home games. They will have to win on the road here if they want to get past Denver, and that's not going to be easy. The Nuggets had the best home record in the NBA in the regular season (34-7). Denver doesn't have the same problems that Oklahoma City has. Poor decision making by Russell Westbrook really cost the Thunder, and the Blazers can't count on the Nuggets beating themselves. The Blazers have lost six of the last seven head to head meetings versus Denver, and they have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five at the Pepsi Center. Take DEN. GL, Jesse Schule
04-29-19	76ers v. Raptors -6.5		94-89	Loss	-102	23 h 46 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors. I had Toronto in Game 1, and while I was happy with the double digit win, I thought the game was closer than it should have been. The Raptors played a great game defensively, but some poor decisions allowed Philly to hang around in what should have been a blowout. The most egregious of those poor decisions was at the end of the third quarter, up by 15 points with 16 seconds on the clock, surely you hold the ball for last shot with a chance to go into the fourth up 17 or 18 points? Instead, Danny Green forced a quick three point attempt, and Ben Simmons came back to score a quick bucket. Joel Embiid added a pair of free throws and the lead was cut from a possible 17 or 18 to just 11. Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Raptors were 3-1 against the Sixers during the regular season, but perhaps the most significant thing about the regular season series was that Kawhi Leonard didn't play in the one game that Philly won. The Sixers were 31-10 at home this season, but they had a losing record on the road. I am not convinced that this team is all that different that the team that lost in five games to Boston in last year's East Seminfinal. They lost all three games at Boston, and they lost Game 1 by 16 points. While they have since added Jimmy Butler, the health of Joel Embiid is in question. The Raptors on the other hand look a lot better with Kahwi Leonard and Marc Gasol than they did a year ago." After getting the monkey off their back in Game 1, expect a more convincing win in Game 2. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
04-28-19	Celtics +8 v. Bucks		112-90	Win	100	83 h 15 m	Show
8* analysis before game time
04-27-19	76ers v. Raptors -5	Top	95-108	Win	100	90 h 37 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors were 3-1 against the Sixers during the regular season, but perhaps the most significant thing about the regular season series was that Kawhi Leonard didn't play in the one game that Philly won. The Sixers were 31-10 at home this season, but they had a losing record on the road. I am not convinced that this team is all that different that the team that lost in five games to Boston in last year's East Seminfinal. They lost all three games at Boston, and they lost Game 1 by 16 points. While they have since added Jimmy Butler, the health of Joel Embiid is in question. The Raptors on the other hand look a lot better with Kahwi Leonard and Marc Gasol than they did a year ago. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
04-23-19	Thunder v. Blazers -150		115-118	Win	100	35 h 32 m	Show
This is an 8* play on Portland. The Blazers have absolutely owned Oklahoma City in this series, and their double digit victory in Game 4 came despite every effort from the officials to allow the Thunder to get back into this series. I am sure I wasn't the only one who say Damian Lillard take a handful of shots to the head while the refs kept the whistle in their pocket in the fourth quarter. Lillard remained calm, not bothering to say a word to the officials. You look in his eyes and the expression says "It's cool, I got this". Russell Westbrook was 5-of-21 from the field in Game 4, and he is on the verge of cementing his legacy as the league's most overrated player. Portland should close out the series tonight. Take BLAZERS. GL, Jesse Schule
04-23-19	Spurs v. Nuggets -5.5		90-108	Win	100	71 h 11 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Denver Nuggets. The Spurs are coming off a terrible loss at home in Game 4, and they are in rough shape heading back to Denver. Not only did they miss out on a chance to wrestle home court advantage away from the Nuggets in this series, they allowed the younger and less experience team to gain confidence. Now Denver has a chance to take a 3-2 series lead at home in Game 5. The Nuggets have the best home record in the NBA, and home court advantage in Denver has been a story long before this team finished as the #2 seed. Playing at altitude in Denver could prove to be even more challenging for a Spurs team that has the worst road record of any team in the playoffs. I think the Spurs window of opportunity closed when they lost at home in Game 4. Take DEN. GL, Jesse Schule
04-21-19	Raptors v. Magic UNDER 235		107-85	Win	100	51 h 17 m	Show
8*
04-21-19	Raptors -110 v. Magic		107-85	Win	100	45 h 11 m	Show
8*
04-20-19	Bucks -8 v. Pistons	Top	119-103	Win	100	65 h 28 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks are heading into Game 3 of this series up 2-0, and some might expect them to suffer a let down here as the series shifts to Detroit. Well they didn't finish with the best record in the NBA by taking nights off. This Milwaukee team enjoys beating up on the opposition, and I expect them to cruise to another double digit win over an inferior opponent. The Bucks have won six straight against the Pistons, and their last game in Detroit was a 115-105 win on January 29th. The Pistons are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a ATS loss, and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 Conference Quarterfinals games. Blake Griffin hasn't seen any action in this series, and his status is in serious doubt for Game 3. Take MIL. GL, Jesse Schule
04-20-19	Nuggets v. Spurs -160		117-103	Loss	-160	20 h 22 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the San Antonio Spurs. I had the Spurs in Game 3, and here is what I said prior to tip off: "Denver is lucky to have earned a split heading back to San Antonio, as the Spurs out-played them for the majority of Game 2. The Spurs look good as a home favorite in Game 3, given that they won 32 games in San Antonio during the regular season. That's more home wins that the Warriors and Rockets. The home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings between these teams, and the Nuggets are 2-5 ATS in the last seven meetings in San Antonio. The Nuggets are 1-8 ATS in their last nine Conference Quarterfinals games." I think San Antonio will take a 3-1 series lead heading back to Denver. Take SA. GL, Jesse Schule
04-20-19	76ers v. Nets +2		112-108	Loss	-110	18 h 48 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets took Philly by surprise in Game 1, but now they head into Game 4 trailing the series 2-1. Joel Embiid is likely going to rest with a knee injury, and Ben Simmons is coming off a monster performance in Game 3. Simmons scored 31 points on 11-of-13 shooting, but I seriously doubt he can do it again here in Game 4. Simmons will likely suffer a let down here, as he simply isn't a great shooter and hasn't turned into one overnight. Brooklyn did cover the spread in three of the four regular season meetings, and I expect the Nets to give a big push back here early in Game 4. Take BKN. GL, Jesse Schule
04-19-19	Celtics v. Pacers UNDER 203.5	Top	104-96	Win	100	42 h 50 m	Show
This is a 10* play on BOS@IND to go Under the total. I bet on the under in Game 2 of this series, and here is what I said prior to tip off: "The Pacers lost Game 1 by a score of 84-74, and yet the public is still betting on tonight's Game 2 to go over 200 points. I don't think Indiana is going to change a thing, coming out with every intention of muddying things up, playing down and dirty defensive basketball. The Pacers were the league's top defensive team in the regular season, ranking 1st in opponent's scoring average. Neither team shot the ball well in Game 1, and good looks will continue to be hard to come by throughout this series in my opinion." Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
04-18-19	Nuggets v. Spurs -162		108-118	Win	100	18 h 20 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the San Antonio Spurs. Denver is lucky to have earned a split heading back to San Antonio, as the Spurs out-played them for the majority of Game 2. The Spurs look good as a home favorite in Game 3, given that they won 32 games in San Antonio during the regular season. That's more home wins that the Warriors and Rockets. The home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings between these teams, and the Nuggets are 2-5 ATS in the last seven meetings in San Antonio. The Nuggets are 1-8 ATS in their last nine Conference Quarterfinals games. Take SA. GL, Jesse Schule
04-17-19	Pacers v. Celtics UNDER 207		91-99	Win	100	6 h 49 m	Show
This is a 10* play on IND@BOS to go Under the total. The Pacers lost Game 1 by a score of 84-74, and yet the public is still betting on tonight's Game 2 to go over 200 points. I don't think Indiana is going to change a thing, coming out with every intention of muddying things up, playing down and dirty defensive basketball. The Pacers were the league's top defensive team in the regular season, ranking 1st in opponent's scoring average. Neither team shot the ball well in Game 1, and good looks will continue to be hard to come by throughout this series in my opinion. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
04-10-19	Magic v. Hornets -172	Top	122-114	Loss	-172	8 h 27 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Charlotte Hornets. It all might be too little too late for the Hornets, but they have stayed alive in the hunt for the playoffs by winning four straight games. They play their final home game against Orlando (already clinched) and they need a win to get in. They also need help, and given that it's the New York Knicks that they are cheering for, they are unlikely to get it. They have won 2-of-3 versus Orlando this season, and Charlotte has been a strong home team. There is a possibility that Orlando rests some players, and I like Charlotte to come out like gangbusters. Take CHA. GL, Jesse Schule
04-08-19	Texas Tech v. Virginia OVER 117.5	Top	77-85	Win	100	13 h 52 m	Show
This is a 10* play on TTU@UVA to go Over the total. Both the Cavs and the Red Raiders are capable of completely shutting down their opponent, and each team has been involved in more than it's fair share of low scoring games. The bookmakers have taken this into account by posting a total well below what we normally see in an NCAA Tournmanet game. Both these teams come in averaging over 65 points per game in the tournament, and I expect both these teams to get their points tonight. The total for this game is lower than it was in any of either team's previous games at this tournament. Take Over. GL, Jesse Schule
04-06-19	Auburn +6 v. Virginia	Top	62-63	Win	100	87 h 58 m	Show
This is a 10* play on Auburn. In recent memory, this Virginia team has been a juggernaut in the regular season, but they always disappoint in the NCAA Tournament. Things got really bad when they were bounced in the first round last year losing to UMBC. Then in their first game of this Tournament, they got blown out in the first half by Gardner Webb. They have avoided disaster with wins by the closest of margins against Oregon and Purdue, and really needed a miracle to get past the Boilermakers. Auburn's journey to the Final Four has been far more impressive, beating Kansas, Kentucky and North Carolina in their last three games. I'll take the Tigers plus the points against a fragile looking favorite. Take AUB. GL, Jesse Schule
04-05-19	Hawks v. Magic UNDER 226	Top	113-149	Loss	-110	28 h 11 m	Show
This is a 10* play on ATL@ORL to go Under the total. The Magic have won eight straight home games, and they are in a position to clinch the Southeast Division with just three games left in the season. They host Atlanta in their final home game, and Atlanta has won five of it's last seven. Orlando ranks 5th in the NBA in opponent's scoring average, and they have allowed an average of less than 100 points during their eight game home win streak. The under is 36-16 in the last 52 meetings between the two teams, and four of Orlando's last five home games against Atlanta have gone under the total. The opening number for tonight's game is higher than it was in any of the previous 10 head to head meetings. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
04-02-19	Texas Southern v. Green Bay -5		86-87	Loss	-108	19 h 5 m	Show
This is a 5* play on Wisconsin-GB. The Phoenix come into Tuesday night's home game against Texas Southern as winners of three straight, and they were up big at the half in each and every one of those games. They are an excellent home team (14-3 home record), and they are 8-1 ATS in their last nine home games. Texas Southern relies on a high scoring offense to win games, as they have allowed over 86 points per game in their last five overall. That style tends to play better at home, and while the Tigers have had some success on the road, for the most part it was versus inferior opponents. I expect the Phoenix to open up a big lead early, winning big at home. Take GB. GL, Jesse Schule
03-31-19	Auburn v. Kentucky OVER 140.5		77-71	Win	100	5 h 32 m	Show
This is an 8* play on AUB@UK to go Over the total. The Auburn Tigers averaged over 80 points per game during the regular season, but here in the tournament those numbers are up. It's not as though they have had any easy games, playing New Mexico State, Kansas and North Carolina. They rely heavily on the three-point shot, and they are coming off a 97 point performance against the Tar Heels. They shot 17-of-37 (45%) from beyond the arc in the victory. Kentucky is perhaps better defensively than their previous three opponents, but the Tigers did score 80 points in a home loss to the Wildscats earlier this season. The total of 140 appears to be a little too low. Take Over. GL, Jesse Schule
03-30-19	Texas Tech v. Gonzaga -180		75-69	Loss	-180	16 h 14 m	Show
5*
03-29-19	Houston v. Kentucky -135		58-62	Win	100	3 h 1 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Kentucky Wildcats. Houston has impressed in the tournament so far, but they lost to Cincinnati in the American Conference Tournament Final. They didn't play a team ranked as high as Kentucky all season long, and I like the #7 ranked Wildcats to advance to the Elite Eight. Kentucky has covered the spread in six straight non conference games, while Houston is just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 versus SEC teams. Kentucky is 5-1-2 ATS in their last 8 NCAA Tournament games. I'll take the more battle tested Kentucky Wildcats. Take UK. GL, Jesse Schule
03-29-19	LSU +6 v. Michigan State		63-80	Loss	-107	76 h 57 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the LSU Tigers. LSU comes into this Sweet Sixteen matchup versus Michigan State as an underdog. The SEC champs have been giant killers this season, beating Kentucky, Tennessee and Auburn. They jumped all over Yale in their first game at the tournament, leading 45-29 at the half. They faced a BIG10 team in their next game, and they had a 38-29 lead over Maryland at halftime in their last game at the tourney. The Spartans are 1-4 ATS in their last five NCAA Tournament games, and they appear to be on upset alert here against LSU. Take LSU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-28-19	Texas Tech v. Michigan -129		63-44	Loss	-129	79 h 4 m	Show
8*
03-28-19	Purdue v. Tennessee -115	Top	99-94	Loss	-115	89 h 56 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the Tennessee Volunteers. I bet on Tennessee in their last game at the tournament, and here is what I said before the game: "The Vols got off to a good start in their first round win over Colgate, leading by a dozen at halftime. Tennessee came into the NCAA Tournament as winners of five of seven. Two of those five wins came against #4 ranked Kentucky." They jumped all over the Hawkeyes, building a 21 point lead at halftime. They let Iowa come back in that game and force overtime, before going on to win 83-77. If the Vols have had trouble finishing games, they certainly haven't had a lot of trouble starting them. The Vols have a big edge when it comes to free throws and three point shooting, and I expect them to take it to Purdue early. Take TENN. GL, Jesse Schule
03-24-19	Cal-Irvine v. Oregon OVER 123.5		54-73	Win	100	18 h 41 m	Show
This is an 8* play on UCI@ORE to go Over the total. The Ducks are coming off a 72-54 win over Wisconsin in the first round, shooting 54.9 percent from the field and 7-of-15 (46.7%) from beyond the arc. They will look to keep it rolling against UC Irvine, and they have a history of beating up on the Anteaters. The Ducks have won all five meetings dating back to 2006, covering the spread in in four of those five games. The most recent meeting was a 78-63 Oregon win back in 2015. The Anteaters love the three ball, and they nailed nine of 23 attempts in their win over Kansas State. The over is 5-1 in Anteaters last SIX overall, and they have gone over in four of their last five versus teams from the PAC12. The Ducks have gone over in eight of their last 10 versus teams from the Big West. Take Over. GL, Jesse Schule
03-24-19	Ohio State v. Houston -5.5		59-74	Win	100	17 h 59 m	Show
This is a 7* play on the Houston Cougars. I bet against the Buckeyes in their first round matchup versus Iowa State, and here is what I said before that game: "They will play a Buckeyes team that lost four of their last five games. Ohio State has a history of struggling against teams from the BIG12, failing to cover in seven straight against BIG12 teams. They have only covered the spread in one of their last eight NCAA Tournament games. The Cyclones are 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine non-conference games. An OSU team that averaged less than 64 points per game in it's last five, and lost seven of it's last 10 overall, isn't likely to advance past the first round." OSU got the upset, but they are 2-7 ATS in their last nine games following a straight up win. The Cougars are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 neutral site games, and 7-2 ATS in their last nine non conference games. Take HOU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-24-19	Iowa v. Tennessee -7.5		77-83	Loss	-113	8 h 13 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Tennessee Volunteers. The Vols got off to a good start in their first round win over Colgate, leading by a dozen at halftime. Tennessee came into the NCAA Tournament as winners of five of seven. Two of those five wins came against #4 ranked Kentucky. Iowa trailed by five points at halftime in their first round game against Cincinnati, but rallied to win by a score of 79-77. The Hawkeyes are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games overall, and they have failed to cover in five of their last six against teams with a winning record. They are 2-7 ATS in their last nine NCAA Tournament games, and they have failed to cover in five straight when coming off a win. Take TENN. GL, Jesse Schule
03-23-19	Baylor +14 v. Gonzaga		71-83	Win	100	7 h 55 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Baylor Bears. Baylor will be a double digit underdog in their second round matchup versus Gonzaga, despite the fact that 11 of their 13 losses this season have come by fewer than 10 points. Gonzaga has won three straight head to head meetings versus Baylor since 2006, but they failed to cover in two of those games. All three of those contests were decided by fewer than 10 points. The Bulldogs have a history of coming into the tournament as an overvalued favorite, and that is evidenced by the fact that they are 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 NCAA Tournament games. Baylor is 6-0 ATS in their last six versus the WCC. Take BAY. GL, Jesse Schule
03-23-19	Maryland v. LSU -160		67-69	Win	100	1 h 34 m	Show
This is an 8* play on LSU. The Tigers opened the tournament with a 79-74 win over Yale. They failed to cover as a six point favorite in that game, but they did open up a 16 point lead at halftime. I expect this talented LSU team to jump out to another fast start against a Maryland team that struggled on offense early on in their win over Belmont. The Bruins took a 40-34 lead into halftime, but Maryland just barely escaped with a 79-77 win. The Terrapins are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up win, and they are 1-7 ATS in their last eight NCAA Tournament games. Take LSU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-22-19	Ohio State v. Iowa State -5		62-59	Loss	-106	11 h 48 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Iowa State Cyclones. The Cyclones are playing their best basketball at the right time, coming into the tournament off a double digit win over Kansas in the BIG12 Tournament Final. They will play a Buckeyes team that lost four of their last five games. Ohio State has a history of struggling against teams from the BIG12, failing to cover in seven straight against BIG12 teams. They have only covered the spread in one of their last eight NCAA Tournament games. The Cyclones are 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine non-conference games. An OSU team that averaged less than 64 points per game in it's last five, and lost seven of it's last 10 overall, isn't likely to advance past the first round. Take ISU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-22-19	Memphis v. Creighton -182		67-79	Win	100	10 h 32 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the Creighton Blue Jays. Memphis is a great team at home, but not so much on the road. They lost seven of 10 away from home this season, and they could be up against in Nebraska tonight. Memphis has failed to cover in 10 of their last 11 versus teams from the Big East. The Blue Jays have covered the spread in four straight home games, and six of their last seven overall. They are also 7-3 ATS in their last 10 non conference games. I'll take the home favorite. Take CRE. GL, Jesse Schule
03-22-19	Thunder v. Raptors UNDER 226.5		116-109	Win	100	9 h 39 m	Show
This is an 8* play on OKC@TOR to go Under the total. The Raptors won't have their starting PG Kyle Lowry tonight at home in the second game of a home and home versus Oklahoma City. They beat the Thunder 123-114 in overtime on Wednesday, and it was a low scoring game in regulation. The Thunder really need to get back on track, they are in danger of slipping all the way to the 8th seed and playing Golden State in the first round. The under is 10-4 in the Thunder's last 14 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven road games. History favors OKC here as the road team has covered in seven of the last eight head to head meetings. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-22-19	Washington v. Utah State UNDER 135.5		78-61	Loss	-105	8 h 53 m	Show
This is an 8* play on WAS@USU to go Under the total. The Washington Huskies are coming off a 68-48 loss to Oregon in the PAC12 Final. They will play Utah State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, and Utah State comes in as winners of 10 straight. The Aggies can play defense, and they proved that by beating San Diego State 64-57 in the Mountain West Final. The under is 5-1 in Huskies last six non-conference games, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last six at neutral sites. The Aggies have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven games at the NCAA Tournament. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-22-19	Oregon v. Wisconsin -130		72-54	Loss	-130	6 h 46 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Wisconsin Badgers. As much success as Oregon has had in the PAC12, I think they are a poor man's version of Wisconsin. They have been dominant on defense, holding opponents to just 55 points per game over their last five overall. The Badgers have played far superior opponents in the BIG10, and they held opponents to just 57.1 points per game at neutral sites this season. Wisconsin is 6-2 ATS in their last eight versus PAC12 teams, and they have covered the spread in five of their last six at the NCAA Tournament. Wisconsin can lean on 6"10 senior Ethan Happ, who posted three triple doubles during the season. Take WIS. GL, Jesse Schule
03-21-19	Belmont v. Maryland UNDER 147.5		77-79	Loss	-106	16 h 40 m	Show
This is an 8* play on BEL@MD to go Under the total. The Belmont Bruins can light it up on offense, and they are coming off an 81-70 win over Temple. They face a far more formidable opponent in Maryland, and they have struggled to score in recent games as an underdog. They scored just 65 points in their conference tournament loss to Murray State, and last year they scored 51 points in a loss to Murray State in the conference tourney. The Terrapins allowed opponents to average just 62.7 points per game at neutral sites during the season, and they have allowed an average of 67.6 points per game over their last five overall. The under is 5-0 in Bruins last 5 non-conference games, and the Terrapins have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven neutral site games. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-21-19	Yale v. LSU -6.5		74-79	Loss	-106	9 h 30 m	Show
This is a 5* play on the LSU Tigers. I'm not too high on Yale coming out of the Ivy League. They did win the league and they won the conference tournament, but they cruised through a pretty soft schedule. They only faced one ranked team during the season, and they lost by 33 points to Duke. LSU was able to navigate a difficult schedule in the SEC, and weather the storm of a scandal involving former coach Will Wade. They managed to hold on and finish at the top of one of the toughest conference in the country. While they did lose a coach, there is no doubt that they come into this game with superior talent on the floor. LSU lost a close game to Florida in the SEC tourney, but the Tigers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up loss. Take LSU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-20-19	Arizona State v. St. John's UNDER 153.5		74-65	Win	100	16 h 18 m	Show
This is an 8* play on SJU@ASU to go Under the total. The St. John's Red Storm come into their First Four matchup versus Arizona State as losers of four of their last five. They scored just 54 points in a loss to Marquette in the Big East Tournament. Arizona State won six of seven prior to an overtime loss to Oregon in the PAC12 Tournament. The Sun Devils have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven overall, and the under is 5-1 in their last six non conference games. St. John's has failed to reach the total in five straight versus teams with a winning record. I expect both these teams to step it up on defense in a do or die game. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-19-19	76ers v. Hornets UNDER 224.5	Top	118-114	Loss	-107	26 h 16 m	Show
This is an 8* play on PHI@CHA to go Under the total. The Charlotte Hornets are only 2.5 games out of first place in the Southeast, but they are going to have to play a lot better than they did in their last game if they want to make the playoffs. Charlotte scored just 75 points in a loss at Miami on Sunday. The good news for the the Hornets is that they do play a lot better at home. Philly is coming off a big win over the Bucks in Milwaukee, but that could set them up for a let down here in Charlotte. Prior to upsetting the Bucks on Sunday, the Sixers had lost back to back road games at Chicago and Houston. The Sixers have failed to reach the total in eight of their last 10 overall, and four of their last five on the road. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-17-19	Auburn v. Tennessee -200		84-64	Loss	-200	12 h 29 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Tennessee Volunteers. The Vols only lost three games in the SEC this year, all road games at Kentucky, LSU and Auburn. They lead at halftime in two of those three games. They also lead at the half in Saturday's win over Kentucky in the conference tournament. Despite leading 41-35 at the half, the Vols failed to clinch the SEC when they lost their final regular season game at Auburn. A chance to avenge that loss comes here in the SEC Final in Nashville, and they should have a huge advantage playing in front of a Tennesse crowd. I expect Tennessee to start fast and run away with this game. Take TENN. GL, Jesse Schule
03-16-19	Oregon v. Washington OVER 121	Top	68-48	Loss	-110	13 h 26 m	Show
This is a 10* play on ORE@WAS to go Over the total. This will be the third meeting between Washington and Oregon this season, and the bookmakers are projecting another low score. The Ducks won at Washington by a score of 55-47 in the last meeting, falling well short of the total of 125.5. This has bookmakers dropping the number even lower to 121. I believe this is a case of recency bias influencing the line, and I'll fade that low number. The Ducks made 10 three-pointers in an overtime win over Arizona State on Friday, scoring 67 points in regulation. The Huskies won 66-61 versus Colorado, and a similar score tonight versus the Ducks wouldn't be much of a surprise. Take Over. GL, Jesse Schule
03-16-19	Blazers v. Spurs -130	Top	103-108	Win	100	12 h 48 m	Show
This is a 10* play on the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs come into tonight's home game versus Portland as winners of seven straight, and they still have one of the best home records in the NBA. In fact their 27-7 home record is the best in the Western Conference, and only Toronto and Philly (each have 28 home wins) have a better record. While both teams will be playing the second game of a back to back, the Spurs didn't have to travel, and Pop was able to rest the starters in the second half of a blowout win over the Knicks on Friday. The home team has won five straight head to head meetings, and the Trail Blazers are 3-9 ATS in the last 12 meetings in San Antonio. Take SPURS. GL, Jesse Schule
03-15-19	Mississippi State v. Tennessee UNDER 147		76-83	Loss	-125	11 h 31 m	Show
This is an 8* play on MISST@TENN to go Under the total. History tells us we should expect scoring to be hard to come by when these two SEC rivals meet in Nashville in the conference tournament tonight. Not only have these two teams failed to reach the total in four straight head to head meetings, Mississippi State has failed to score 60 points in each of the last three meetings. The Bulldogs have failed to reach the total in eight of their last 10 overall, and the under is 6-1 in their last seven neutral site games. Tennessee is coming off a loss to Auburn in it's final game of the season, and the Vols have gone under in five straight games following a loss. Of the four games played at Bridgestone Arena yesterday, three of those games saw fewer than 140 combined points. It's not uncommon to see low scores at venues that don't normally host basketball games. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-11-19	Kings v. Wizards UNDER 240		115-121	Win	100	8 h 15 m	Show
This is an 8* play on SAC@WAS to go Under the total. Both these teams are on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoffs, but either team could be right back in the mix if they could string a few wins together. Sacramento comes in as winners of two of their last three, although both those wins came against the New York Knicks. Washington has lost seven of their last 10 overall, and they don't really look like a team that is trying to make the playoffs. These teams have failed to reach the total in six of the last nine head to head meetings, and the total for tonight's game is higher than it was in all of those nine games. The under is 5-1 in the last six meetings in Washington, and the under is 9-2-1 in Kings last 12 road games. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-10-19	SMU v. South Florida UNDER 134.5		77-71	Loss	-109	13 h 23 m	Show
This is an 8* play on SMU@USF to go Under the total. The South Florida Bulls will play their final home game against a struggling SMU Mustangs team. History favors the Mustangs, who have been one of the top teams in the conference over the years. That hasn't been the case this year though, and I think the bookmakers have given SMU too much love here. The Mustangs come in as losers of nine of their last 10 overall, including a home loss to South Florida. They are 2-7 on the road, and they have lost five straight away games. They have averaged just 61.6 points in their last five games, and South Florida plays strong defense at home. The Mustangs have failed to cover in four of their last five at USF, and six of the last eight meetings between the two teams have gone under the total. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-10-19	SMU v. South Florida -2		77-71	Loss	-108	13 h 23 m	Show
This is an 8* play on USF. The South Florida Bulls will play their final home game against a struggling SMU Mustangs team. History favors the Mustangs, who have been one of the top teams in the conference over the years. That hasn't been the case this year though, and I think the bookmakers have given SMU too much love here. The Mustangs come in as losers of nine of their last 10 overall, including a home loss to South Florida. They are 2-7 on the road, and they have lost five straight away games. They have averaged just 61.6 points in their last five games, and South Florida plays strong defense at home. The Mustangs have failed to cover in four of their last five at USF, and six of the last eight meetings between the two teams have gone under the total. Take USF. GL, Jesse Schule
03-09-19	Duke v. North Carolina -3.5	Top	70-79	Win	100	16 h 36 m	Show
This is a 10* play on UNC. It was just a few weeks ago that North Carolina went into Cameron Indoor Stadium and laid a whupping on Duke. Now the Blue Devils look to return the favor, and some might think this looks like a natural revenge spot. I might like Duke's chances of an upset here, if they had Zion Williamson back, or if Trey Jones wasn't hurt, or if they didn't just come oh so close to losing to one of the worst teams in the conference a few days ago. Duke is a mess, and expecting them to pull it all together to beat the Tar Heels at Chapel Hill just doesn't seem at all realistic. North Carolina lead by double digits at the half in the last meeting. Take UNC. GL, Jesse Schule
03-08-19	Pistons v. Bulls UNDER 218.5		112-104	Win	100	17 h 22 m	Show
This is an 8* play on DET@CHI to go Under the total. Well it's that time of year again! The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner, and a handful of teams will fight like cats and dogs to get in. This normally results in tighter, lower scoring games down the stretch for these teams that are on the bubble. One such team is the Detroit Pistons, who currently sit in sixth place in the East. The Pistons have won six of their last seven overall, and 10 of their last 12. They rank in the Top 10 in the NBA in scoring defense, and they have gone under in 10 of their last 14 when playing on one day's rest. They held Cleveland to just 93 points in their last road game. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-08-19	Mavs v. Magic UNDER 213.5		106-111	Loss	-106	16 h 19 m	Show
This is an 8* play on DAL@ORL to go Under the total. Well it's that time of year again! The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner, and a handful of teams will fight like cats and dogs to get in. This normally results in tighter, lower scoring games down the stretch for these teams that are on the bubble. One such team is the Orlando Magic, who sit just one game back of Miami for first place in the Southeast. They might just have to win the division if they want to make the playoffs, making tonight's game against the Mavs a "must win". The Mavs come in as losers of eight of their last nine, and they rank 22nd in the NBA in scoring. The under is 14-4 in the Mavs last 18 versus Eastern Conference teams, while Orlando has failed to reach the total in five of their last six overall. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-08-19	Wizards v. Hornets UNDER 234		111-112	Win	100	16 h 18 m	Show
This is an 8* play on WAS@CHA to go Under the total. Well it's that time of year again! The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner, and a handful of teams will fight like cats and dogs to get in. This normally results in tighter, lower scoring games down the stretch for these teams that are on the bubble. One such team is the Charlotte Hornets, who sit just one game out of first place in the Southeast. They might have to win the division to make it into the playoffs, and that makes tonight's game against Washington a "must win". Charlotte is coming off a 91-84 home loss to Miami, and I expect tonight's game to be another battle against a division rival. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-07-19	Temple v. Connecticut UNDER 145		78-71	Loss	-110	16 h 17 m	Show
This is an 8* play on TEM@UCONN to go Under the total. The Huskies come into their final home game off a solid win over South Florida. That snapped a six game losing skid, but Connecticut had been quite competitive during that losing streak. They lost by two at Wichita State, lost by four at home versus Cincinnati, and both of those games were low scoring defensive battles. We should expect another low scoring battle here tonight, especially given that UCONN has gone under in nine of it's last 10 overall. They have failed to reach the total in 10 of their last 11 home games, and four of Temple's last five at UCONN have gone under the total. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-06-19	Marquette -140 v. Seton Hall		64-73	Loss	-140	6 h 38 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Marquette Golden Eagles. Marquette can move into a first place tie with Villanova in the BIG EAST with a win at Seton Hall tonight. History suggests that they have a good chance to do just that. The Golden Eagles have won four of the last five head to head meetings, and their last game at Seton Hall was an 88-85 win last year. The Pirates are far from invincible at home, in fact they have failed to cover in seven of their last nine home games. Seton Hall is coming off an overtime loss at Georgetown, and the Pirates are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games following a straight up loss. This is a "must win" for Marquett, and I fully expect Markus Howard to take care of business tonight. Take MARQ. GL, Jesse Schule
03-05-19	Mississippi State v. Tennessee UNDER 145.5		54-71	Win	100	8 h 18 m	Show
This is an 8* play on MISST@TENN to go Under the total. The Vols might need to win out if they want to win the SEC. They are currently tied with LSU, and just a game ahead of the Kentucky Wildcats. They host the Mississippi State Bulldogs tonight, looking to extend their perfect 17-0 home record. Tennessee has allowed just over 61 points per game at home, and they held Kentucky to just 52 points on Saturday. The Vols are 8-2 straight up in their last 10 versus Mississippi State, and four of the last five head to head meetings have gone under the total. Take Under. GL, Jesse Schule
03-05-19	Kentucky -5 v. Ole Miss		80-76	Loss	-110	8 h 42 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Kentucky Wildcats. This is a big game for Kentucky, coming off a 19-point loss at Tennessee over the weekend. They are still in the mix at the top of the SEC, but a loss tonight at Mississippi and they can kiss their title hopes good bye. If history is any indication, they should be in good shape. They are 9-0 straight up in the last nine meetings, and they covered the spread in six of those games. They have been great on the road this season, winning seven of nine games. The Wildcats are 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take UK. GL, Jesse Schule
03-05-19	Rockets v. Raptors -144		107-95	Loss	-144	7 h 18 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors. The Rockets come into Toronto as winners of five straight, but coming off a big win over the Celtics in Boston, they could be due for a let down here. Keep in mind the Raptors lead the NBA with 27 home victories, two more than the first place Milwaukee Bucks. The Rockets are 2-9 ATS in the last 11 meetings in Toronto. They are 6-13-1 ATS in their last 20 games overall, and 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 games following a straight up win. They have failed to cover in nine straight coming off an ATS win. Take TOR. GL, Jesse Schule
03-05-19	Virginia Tech v. Florida State -175		64-73	Win	100	5 h 35 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the FSU Seminoles. Florida State comes into tonight's home game versus Virginia Tech as winners of nine of their last 10 overall. The home team is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between these teams, and the Seminoles are 5-0 at home in those games. FSU has a home record of 14-1 this season, averaging 79.5 points in those games. The Hokies are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Florida State. The last two times the Hokies played at Tallahassee, the spread was double the points that it is tonight. This looks like a short line. Take FSU. GL, Jesse Schule
03-04-19	Knicks v. Kings -11.5		108-115	Loss	-110	29 h 6 m	Show
This is an 8* play on the Sacramento Kings. The New York Knicks are tanking, and that couldn't have been any more obvious than when they allowed the Clippers to score 82 points in the first half of a 128-107 loss Sunday. The Knicks have lost 21 of their last 24 games, many of those losses coming by double digits. The Kings are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 home games. They are 7-1 ATS in their last eight home games versus teams with a losing road record. The Knicks are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall, while the Kings are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games overall. This game has blowout written all over it. Take SAC. GL, Jesse Schule