8*

10*

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

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.

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

8*

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

8*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8* analysis before game time

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

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

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

8*

8*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is an 8* play on the Charlotte Hornets.

The Blazers won their first four games of this Eastern Conference road trip, before falling 119-117 at Toronto. They could suffer a bit of a let down here on Sunday in Charlotte. The Hornets are a solid home team, with a record of 20-12 in Charlotte. They are in a heated battle for first place in the Southeast, with just one game separating them from Orlando and Miami. Home court should be key here, as the home team has covered in seven of the last eight head to head meetings.

Take CHA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on MIN@IND to go Under the total.

The Indiana Pacers are coming off back to back losses, but they look good to get back on track against the Minnesota Timberwolves at home tonight. Minnesota is a terrible road team, with a record of 9-22 away from the Twin Cities. The Pacers are the best defensive team in the NBA, ranking first in the league allowing 103.5 points per game. They lost 101-91 at Minnesota earlier this season, but the total for tonight's game is far higher than it was in nine of the last 10 meetings. The under is 39-18 in Pacers last 57 home games, and 9-4 in their last 13 overall.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on OKC@DEN to go Under the total.

The Nuggets are three games up on Oklahoma City, sitting first place in the Northwest Division. They have been one of the toughest defensive teams in the Western Conference this season, and they have given the Thunder plenty of trouble in recent head to head meetings. Denver won all four meetings versus Oklahoma City in 2018, and the Thunder failed to score 100 points in the last two head to head meetings. The under is 6-2 in the last eight meetings, but tonight's total is way higher than it was in any of those previous eight games. The Thunder have failed to reach the total in eight of their last 10 when playing a team with a winning record.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on BOS@TOR to go Under the total.

The Raptors are 2.5 games out of first place in the Eastern Conference, and they will play a huge game at home versus Boston tonight. This is also a big game for the Celtics, who are coming off back to back losses, and are still looking to establish themselves as a contender in the East. Both these two teams rank in the Top 10 in the NBA in opponent's scoring average, so it's a little surprising that tonight's total is higher than it was in any of the previous 10 meetings. The Celtics have failed to reach the total in seven of their last eight road games, and each of their last five visits to Toronto yeilded less than 225 combined points.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Pelicans shocked the Lakers on Saturday, winning outright by a score of 128-115 without Anthony Davis. They were a 6.5 point underdog in that game, despite their 18-11 home record. The Sixers didn't fare so well without their star big man, losing 130-115 at home to Portland. Philly isn't a great road team even with Joel Embiid, with just a 14-14 record. They have lost three of their last four at New Orleans, and they are 1-4 in their last five when Embiid sits. The Pelicans scored 42 points in the first quarter of Saturday's win over the Lakers, and I expect them to start strong again here at home versus Philly.

Take N.O.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The trade deadline has come and gone, and The Brow is still in the Big Easy. Here is a statement from the Pelicans: "Anthony made it clear to us that he wants to play and he gives our team the best opportunity to win games," New Orleans general manager Dell Demps said in a statement. "Moreover, the Pelicans want to preserve the integrity of the game and align our organization with NBA policies. We believe Anthony playing upholds the values that are in the best interest of the NBA and its fans." New Orleans will host the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight, and the T-Pups are playing their second game of a back to back. The Timberwolves are 0-6 ATS in their last six games following a straight up loss, and they are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings in New Orleans.

Take N.O.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Orlando Magic.

The Magic have 22 wins this season, and 14 of those have come at home. They host the Minnesota T-Wolves tonight, and Minnesota has been brutal on the road (8-18). The Magic have won four of their last five home games against Minnesota, and with the trade deadline and the All Star break looming large, I'll take the home team here tonight. The Timberwolves are 2-6 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Orlando, and 5-15 ATS in the last 20 meetings. The Magic have won back to back home games against Indiana and Brooklyn, and I'll bank on a third straight home victory here against the T-Pups.

Take ORL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Thunder come rolling into Boston as winners of seven straight, and they will look to take advantage of a Celtics team that could be distracted by the drama surrounding Kyrie Irving. The infamous "Flat Earther" is rumored to be interested in leaving Boston, and either joining LeBron in LA or KD in New York. The Thunder have covered the spread in four straight road games, and they are 5-0 ATS in their last five versus Eastern Conference teams. Oklahoma City has covered in four of their last five at Boston, and the road team is 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings. I'll take the points and ride those trends today.

Take OKC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Golden State Warriors.

The Lakers got LeBron James back from injury on Thursday, and they managed to beat the Clippers in overtime. There are still plenty of rumors swirling around the team, and it remains to be seen if players like Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram will be part of the future in LA. Anthony Davis has issued a public demand to be traded, and he's looking to become a Laker. Lonzo Ball says if he get's traded to New Orleans he won't play for the Pelicans. It sounds like a hot mess to me. The Warriors won 11 straight before losing at home to the Clippers on Thursday. Perhaps they were looking ahead to this game against LeBron and the Lakers. Golden State has covered in four of it's last five when coming off a loss, and they are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 home games versus the Lakers. I think they'll jump all over LA in the first half, and cover easily.

Take GS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LA Clippers.

The Lakers are a mess at the moment, coming into tonight's game against the Clippers as losers of four of their last five. LeBron James is still recovering from a groin injury, and isn't expected to return tonight. Lonzo Ball is also sidelined by and injury, leaving LA extremely shorthanded. Anthony Davis has been fined by the league for publicly demanding a trade to the Lakers. Lonzo Ball has already gone on record saying he won't play for the Pelicans if he's included in such a trade. The Clippers had won three straight before suffering a home loss to Atlanta. That was the second game of a back to back and a third game in four nights. They should be ready to bounce back here against the struggling Lakers. The Clippers have won six of the last seven meetings, and they've covered the spread in six of the last eight meetings. The Lakers are 5-14 ATS in the last 19 meetings at Staples Center.

Take LAC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors.

The Rockets haven't won back to back games since the beginning of January, and coming off a close win over the Knicks, I expect them to have trouble at home tonight versus the Toronto Raptors. They are just 5-5 over their last 10 games, and four of those five wins came against teams with a losing record. Only Golden State has a better road record than the Raptors, who have won their last two games at Houston. Kawhi Leonard sat out the last two games for what the Raptors claim was simply rest. He's expected to return to action here in Houston. The Rockets are still extremely thin with Cint Capela and Chris Paul both sidelined by injuries. James Harden has averaged over 52 points per game in his last five starts, and he's going to need to score at least 50 to give the Rockets at chance tonight. It's only a matter of time before he runs out of gas, and the Raptors aren't going to make life easy for him.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Minnesota T-Wolves.

Already without LeBron James, the Lakers will be without Lonzo Ball in their home game against Minnesota Thursday. The Wolves are one of the weaker road teams in the Western Conference, but they should still have the Lakers out-gunned here tonight. Minnesota is coming off back to back wins in a home and home series versus Phoenix, and tonight's game against a banged up Lakers team might be similar to their last game on the road in Arizona. The Lakers have lost six of their last seven games against Minnesota, and they only covered the spread in one of those games. The Lakers are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six home games, and I think they come up short tonight against a Minnesota team that is just 1.5 games back in the standings.

Take MIN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Utah Jazz.

The Denver Nuggets can forget about first place. The Warriors are back, and they aren't going anywhere. Now the they need to concentrate on finishing the season strong and securing home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. It's not going to be easy, as every night is a battle in the Western Conference. They face a stiff challenge tonight in Utah, where they have lost their last four games. The Jazz have won six of their last seven overall, and they are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up loss. The Nuggets are 2-7 ATS in their last nine road games, and 2-5 ATS in their last seven games playing on three or more days rest.

Take Utah.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors,

The Raptors and Celtics were supposed to be battling for top spot in the Eastern Conference this season, but Boston has been a major disappointment. The Celtics are seven games back of the first place Raptors in the standings. The home team has won nine straight meetings since the Raptors won 101-94 at The Garden in 2016. This is an opportunity for Toronto to make a statement, and the last time they faced such a challenge they beat the Bucks by a score of 123-116 in Milwaukee. They did that without Kyle Lowry, who is no back at full speed. The Celtics are banged up, with Kyrie Irving and Marcus Spart missing the last game. Toronto has been the better bet in this series, going 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on GS@DEN to go under the total.

The Warriors haven't been as dominant this season as they have been in recent years, and they come into Denver trailing the Nuggets by a half game for top spot in the West. Denver has been successful thanks to their 4th best defense that allows just 105.5 points per game. History tells us that these teams have played strong defense in past meetings. Three of the last four head to head meetings have gone under the total. Given that the winner of this game will take over first place in the Western Conference Standings, we could see a game with a playoff atmosphere. The under is 9-2 in Nuggets last 11 home games versus teams with a winning road record. I think tonight's total looks a little high.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Utah Jazz.

The Pistons won 109-104 at LA on Saturday, and Blake Griffin scored 44 points against his former team. This sets up Detroit (and Griffin) for a let down here on the road at Utah. Detroit rarely wins on the road, with a record of 7-13. The Jazz have won five of six, and four straight at home. History certainly favors the home team, as Utah has won five straigh versus Detroit. The Jazz also covered the spread in all five of those victories. The Jazz are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 home games. The Pistons are 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 games playing on 1 days rest, and they have a long history of losing to Utah. Going back more than a decade, the Pistons are 8-21 ATS in the last 29 meetings.

Take Utah.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on BKN@TOR to go Under the total.

The Raptors are coming off a 104-101 win over the Hawks, in a game that they trailed for most of the first three quarters. They played a similar game against the Nets in Brooklyn a few weeks ago, and they ended up losing in OT by score of 106-105. The Nets have been rolling lately, winning four of their last five. They have played solid defense, allowing 100 points or less in each of their last three wins. Four of the last six head to head meetings between these teams have come up short of the total. Brooklyn hasn't seen 220 combined points in any of their last four games. I expect another low scoring game in Toronto tonight.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on OKC@SA to go Under the total.

One of the biggest stories of the first half of the season has been an increase in scoring league wide. While the numbers are up this year from years past, one trend has held true for as long as I can remember. When the playoffs get closer, the defensive intensity always increases. This appears to be the case for the Spurs, who have been steadily impoving on defense. Their last home game was a 108-88 win over the Grizzlies. They come into tonight's game as winners of five of their last six, and they have allowed just 103 points per game during that span. The Thunder rank in the Top 10 in the NBA in opponent's scoring average, and the under is 6-1 in the last seven head to head meetings, and 4-1 in the last five at San Antonio.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Portland Blazers.

After watching Russell Westbrook shoot 3-for-20 from the field, and still celebrate by doing an "air guitar solo" for Lance Stephenson in a win over the Lakers, I can't help but think the Thunder are due for a let down. They will play at Portland tonight, where the Blazers are 14-6. Portland has owned the Thunder, winning the last six head to head meetings and covering the spread in all six of those games. Coming off a possible night out in LA after the win over the Lakers, you might expect Russ and PG to be a little hung over (maybe a metaphor, maybe not). The Thunder are 7-21 ATS in their last 28 versus the NBA Northwest, and they are 0-6 ATS in their last six visits to Portland. I'll take the home team as a pickem all day long.

Take POR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on UTAH@TOR to go Under the total.

The Utah Jazz are still one of the best defensive teams in the NBA, ranking 5th overall in opponent's scoring average. They face a Raptors team that has really struggled offensively without PG Kyle Lowry. Toronto has averaged just over 97 points per game while going 2-2 in their last four games. They shot just 37 percent from the field against the Bulls, and just over 34 percent from the field in a loss to Orlando. The Jazz have gone under in seven straight when coming off a win, and the under is 8-1 in their last nine overall. The Raptors have failed to reach the total in five of their last six home games. I think this number is far higher than it should be.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LA Clippers.

The Spurs were blown out in the first half in Denver last night, and while they rallied to make it close in the fourth quarter, they ultimately came up short. That is nothing new for San Antonio, a team that has been terrible on the road this season. The Spurs are 8-18-1 ATS in their last 27 road games, and they are 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 games playing the second game of a back to back. While both teams played last night, the Clippers don't have to travel after beating the Lakers at the Staples Center. LA is one of the hottest teams in the league, winning four of their last five overall and ranking 3rd in the NBA in points scored. The Clippers are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games, and they are 6-2 ATS in their last eight when playing on back to back nights.

Take LAC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the LAC.

The Lakers were shorthanded last night when they lost a heartbreaker on the road at Sacramento. Not only is LeBron out with a groin injury, veteran PG Rajon Rondo is sidelined with a finger injury. The young Lakers play their second game in as many nights at the Staples Center against the Clippers. LA's other team has won 24 of the last 28 meetings versus the Lakers, and they have covered the spread in three of the last four meetings. The Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall, and this looks like a good spot for the Clippers to take advantage of a young Lakers team without their veterans. Patrick Beverly owned his matchup versus Lonzo Ball last year, and that will be an interesting matchup here tonight.

Take LAC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Raptors.

The Heat have won five of six games since Goran Dragic last played. The veteran PG had a right knee scope last week, and there is no initial timetable for a return. While the Heat have played well at times, they have a losing record at home. They host the Toronto Raptors tonight, and the Raptors have the best record in the NBA. Toronto comes in with a 12-6 road record. While Kyle Lowry might not play tonight, the Raptors are expected to have Kahwi Leonard and Serge Ibaka back. Neither player was in the lineup when the Raptors lost at Philly before Christmas. Fred Van Fleet has been solid filling in for Kyle Lowry, in his last start he scored 14 points on 6-of-10 shooting with five rebounds and eight assists in a win at Cleveland. The road team has covered the spread in five of the last six head to head meetings, and I'll take the visitors as a small favorite.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Philadelphia 76ers.

This looks like a let down spot for the Raptors, who have already missed Kyle Lowry and Danny Green due to injuries. Playing on the road on the second leg of a back to back in Philly, Nick Nurse says he plans to rest Kawhi Leonard tonight. The Sixers are 15-3 at home, and Jimmy Butler is back from a groin injury. The home team has won four straight in this series, and I don't like the Raptors chances of breaking that trend here tonight as they appear to be severely shorthanded.

Take PHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on MEM@GSW to go Over.

The Warriors are back at full strength, with Draymond and Steph back from injuries. While they have won five of their last six, they haven't exactly looked that sharp. They lost a revenge game to the Raptors at home by a score of 113-93, and they needed to rally from behind to beat Sacramento. Their defense hasn't been very good, allowing and average of 110 points per game in their last six. The trends suggest that these teams have gone under more often than over, but the last two meetings both went way over the total. The Warriors scored 117, and 141 points in those games. I expect to see a high scoring first half here in Oakland.

Take Over,

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Detroit Pistons.

The Pistons are coming off a home win over the Celtics, snapping a six game losing streak. Detroit is still a solid 10-6 at home while Milwaukee is just .500 (6-6) on the road. The home team has won six straigh meetings straight up, and Detroit is 5-1 ATS in their last six versus Milwaukee. "We haven't done anything," Pistons coach Dwane Casey said during his postgame press conference. "We've got some momentum now but we still have a tough team coming in Monday night. It doesn't get any easier. I told the guys to enjoy it until midnight and think about the things we can do better." The Bucks are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 road games, and they are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up win.

Take DET.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the GS Warriors.

The Raptors needed overtime and 37 points from Kawhi Leonard to beat a banged up Warriors team at home at the end of November, and the media went nuts. All the talk in Toronto was that this was almost certainly a preview of the NBA Finals. Not so fast my friend! Steph Curry is back, and the Warriors have won four straight by double digits. That includes a 105-95 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in a very similar "Revenge Spot". This is the second game of a back to back for a Toronto team that hasn't played it's best basketball over the past few weeks. I like the Warriors to win big.

Take GS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Memphis Grizz.

The Grizz are still one of the NBA's best defensive teams, ranking 3rd in the league in opponent's scoring average. Coming off back to back losses, they should be focused on getting back on track at home against a Blazers team on the back end of a back to back. Portland came up just short in a 111-104 loss at Houston last night, and might not have the same energy here in Memphis tonight. Portland isn't great on the road at the best of times, failing to cover in six straight road games. The Grizzlies are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games.

Take MEM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Boston Celtics.

The Celtics are banged up, but they look to extend a six game winning streak in Washington tonight against a struggling Wizards team that might be without John Wall and Otto Porter Jr. The Celtics are 5-2 ATS in their last seven versus Washington, and the road team has won three of the last four in this series. Kyrie Irving didn't play in Boston's win over New Orleans on Monday, but he is expected to return tonight. Marcus Morris scored 31 against the Pelicans, and Jalen Brown and Jason Tatum combined for 40 points. Superior depth should bode well for Boston here given the injuries to both teams.

Take BOS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Memphis Grizz.

The Grizzlies are coming off a huge upset win on the road at New Orleans, and they held Anthony Davis to just 25 points. That's well below his season average of 29 points per game at home. The Grizz are still one of the NBA's best defensive teams, ranking second in the league in opponent's scoring average. They host the Lakers tonight, and LA is coming off a loss at San Antonio. LeBron scored 35 points in 37 minutes, and he continues to pile up the milage on his 33 year old body. Tonight's game figures to be a good spot to limit his minutes (if possible). In two games against Memphis last year LeBron averaged 26 points, and in one game versus Memphis two seasons ago he scored just 23 points. The Grizz have covered in seven of their last 8 home games versus teams with a losing road record, and they are 4-1 ATS in their las five home games versus LA. 

Take MEM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the GS Warriors.

Without Draymond Green and Steph Curry, the Warriors have had more than their share of losses this season. One of those losses came against the Bucks, and that sets up a revenge spot here in Milwaukee tonight. This time around it's the Bucks that may be shorthanded, potentially missing second leading scorer Kris Middleton (personal issues) and Ersan Ilyasova. While Draymond remains out with a toe injury, Curry is back and he cooked up 42 points in a win over the Cavs on Wednesday. Home court hasn't been much of an advantage in this series, with the road team covering in 20 of the last 27 meetings. The Warriors have won three of their last four at Milwaukee.

Take GSW.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Pelicans are 8-2 at home, and one of those two losses came in a game that Anthony Davis sat out. The haven't had a lot of success against the Wizards though, losing seven straight and 13 of the last 14 meetings. This isn't the same Wizards team though, as Washington is close to completely blowing things up and starting a rebuild. The Wizards are 2-7 on the road, and ranked 29th in the NBA in opponent's scoring average. The Wizards are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 road games versus teams with a winning record. I like the home team in a revenge game, and I expect a big first half from the Pelicans.

Take N.O.

GL,

Jesse Schule