Grizzlies/Kings

The Grizz enter off a 113-103 road win at Portland. The Kings are off a 119-105 home win over the Wizards.

Memphis picked up the 128-101 home win in early November over Sacramento, and I expect a similar final outcome here as well.

The biggest difference comes on the defensive end. Memphis allows 109 PPG, which isn't great (ranked 19th), but Sacramento concedes 114 PPG.

The Kings are also just 1-4 ATS in their last five when playing on one days rest, while the Grizz are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last five on the road and 5-2 ATS in their last seven following an ATS victory. 8* PLAY-BOOK on Grizzlies. 

UTRGV/UTSA

I like the Vaqueros to keep this one close. UTRGV is 4-7, while the UTSA Roadrunners are 6-4. 

UTRGV is off a 70-60 loss to Texas Southern. RayQuan Taylor was a bright spot in defeat with 16 points and six boards. 

UTSA is 3-1 in its last four. It's off a tighter than expectd 78-73 win over Sam Houston on Saturday. 

The Roadrunners' strength of schedule has to be questioned somewhat. I see this one coming down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last, so that means I'm grabbing the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Texas Rio Grande Valley. 

Northern Colorado/Arizona

The 6-5 Northern Colorado Bears are going to catch the 9-0 Wilcats looking past them here to their long Christmas break, before a big road conference road trip starting at UCLA on December 30th.

The Bears are off a 74-69 win over South Dakota. They average 74.6 PPG, while allowing 72.8. Clearly, the last thing the visiting side can do is turn this into a faster-paced affair and expect to "hang" with the highest-scoring team in the nation.

Arizona averages 90.7 PPG, while allowing 61.7. The Wildcats though are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine as a non-conference home favoirte in the -23 to -27 points range.

I look for the home side to take the foot off the gas in the second half. No outright, but closer than expected. Northern Colorado 10* COACHES CORNER. 

Pacers/Bucks

Bucks' star Giannis is sidelined with COVID issues. The Bucks are going to have to make adjustments quickly, which comes at the wrong time here facing the improved Pacers.

Indiana had its four game win streak snapped in a 102-100 setback at home to the Warriors last time out. This is a revenge game for the Pacers though after falling 118-100 to Milwaukee in early November. 

The Bucks are off a 117-103 loss at Boston. Note that Milwaukee is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight off a SU/ATS road loss in which it was held to 105 points or less in.

A great situational play. Outright possible, but grab the points. 8* PLAY on Pacers. 

Warriors/Knicks

The Knicks were the talk of the NBA last season. They're struggling this year though, as they enter having lost three straight, most recently a 112-97 home loss to the Bucks (New York though is 8-2 ATS in its last ten off a SU/ATS home loss in which it was held to 99 points or less in.)

Golden State is now 17-9-1 after last night's 102-100 win at Indiana. The Warriors long Eastern-Conference road swing continues with games at Boston and Toronto after this.

On the heels of the second game of the B2B scenario though, I expect the Warriors to finally stumble here.

The Knicks are ultra-motivated to break out of their slump and here's the perfect "measuring stick" to do that against. New York has all the motivation it needs to get off the schneid and I expect it to deliver. That said, grab the points! 10* GAME OF THE WEEK.

VMI/Wake Forest

Outright victory? I don't think so. But I do absolutely believe the 7-4 VMI Keydets will keep this one close. Wake Forest is 9-1. 

VMI averages 80.3 PPG and it allows 64.6. Kamdyn Curfman averages 17.6 points and 2.5 boards per game. 

The Demon Deacons average 81.5 PPG, while conceding 65.6. Alondes Williams averages 18.2 points and 6.6 rebounds to lead the team in each category.

Wake Forest is the better overall team, but VMI has the offense to hang around. That's exactly what I'm expecting! 8* PLAY on VMI. 

Wizards/Nuggets

Denver returns home after a 4-3, seven-game road trip. I say the Nuggets stumble here in this first game back in friendly confines. That's often the case with professional athletes, who get a little TOO comfortable at home after an extended road trip.

Two nights after falling 123-111 at San Antonio, the Nuggets bounced back with a 127-112 win on the road in the rematch.

Washington is the much "hungrier" dog in this fight. it's lost three of its last four, including a 123-98 setback at home to the Jazz last time out. Washington though is 7-1 ATS in its last eight off a SU/ATS home loss in which it was held to 99 points or less in.

Both teams have plenty of injury issues to contend with, but this one has all the makings of a "nail-biter!" As such, let's grab the points. 8* PLAY on Wizards. 

Magic/Lakers

LA has a nasty habit of "playing down" to the level of its competition and all signs point to that occurring here against the 5-22 Magic.

Orlando has lost four in a row. It hasn't been for a lack of trying though, most recently fallling 106-104 to the Clippers.

The Lakers are the slowest team in the NBA. They've been wildly inconsistent. They're off an easy win at OKC, but note that they're just 2-7 ATS in their last nine off a SU/ATS road win in which they held their opponent to 99 or less points in.

LA could even rest some starters here. No outright, but closer than expected. 8* PLAY on Magic. 

FAMU/Akron.

The 2-5 Rattlers get ready to take on the 5-3 Zips. Outright win? I'm not calling for that.

But I do think this is a few too many points to be giving up to FAMU.

FAMU enters off a 69-55 loss to Florida Gulf Coast last time out. Bryce Morgan was a bright spot with 13 points (the Rattlers though are 7-1 ATS in their last eight off a SU/ATS loss in which they were held to 55 points or less in.)

The Zips have won three straight. They're the better team. But I think they come in complacent here and get caught looking past their lowly opponent (note that Akron is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine as a double-digit non-conference home favorite.)

The Rattlers are also 11-4 ATS in their last 15 as an underdog. Grab the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Florida A&M.

Austin Peay/North Florida

The Governors are 4-3, but just 1-2 on the road.

North Florida is 2-9 overall, but 2-0 at home.

Austin Peay is off a relatively simple 98-55 home win over Milligan (note though that the Governors are 2-7 ATS in their last nine after a 30 points or greater SU/ATS home victory.) 

The Ospreys are off an 85-55 loss at Florida, but note that they're a near-perfect 6-1 ATS in their last seven off a SU/ATS road loss of 30 or more points.

The level of competition has to be called into question for each side. Numbers are skewed. Home floor is big here. 9* COACHES CORNER on North Florida. 

Lakers/Thunder

The Lakers are 13-13 after a 108-95 loss at Memphis last night. LA has chemistry issues. It's also old. The Lakers won't be in the NBA Finals this year obviously.

The young Thunder are off a huge 110-109 road win at Toronto. I say they keep it rolling here. OKC already beat the Lakers 107-104 as 10.5-point underdogs on November 4th and I think it can do it again.

James and company have a target on their back every night. They always have to face their opponents "A" game. Look for this road weary Lakers team to once again fall below the .500 mark.

Grab the points. 10* COACHES CORNER Thunder. 

Denver/New Mexico

New Mexico is a heavy favorite. Denver has struggled this year, but I think it comes in under the radar tonight. 

The Lobos have been inconsistent. They beat New Mexico State 101-94 on the road, before then falling 78-76 to the Aggies at home in the following one.

Denver will have an opportunity here against a New Mexico side that ranks 266th in terms of defensive efficiency rankings. 

New Mexico is getting great pla from Jamal Mashburn Jr., who is avearging 21 PPG, but the Lobos are already 0-2 ATS this year as a favorite.

Denver on the other hand is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a road underdog.

I think the Pioneers keep this one interesting down the stretch. 10* COACHES CORNER on Denver. 

CMU/YSU

Youngstown is a heavy favorite here, but this line is just a little TOO steep for in my reckoning.

CMU enters off a 97-70 loss to Western Illinois. Cameron Healy was a bright spot with a career-high 24 points. Kevin Miller added 15. 

Off B2B road conference victoriees, I think the Penguins get caught flat-footed here. Most recently they beat Green Bay 82-58. Tevin Olison led all scorers with 20 points. 

The Chips though are 3-1 ATS in their last four after allowing 90 or more points in their previous game, while the Penguins are just 1-4 ATS in their last five home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

The Penguins are averaging only 66 PPG at home, while CMU is averaging 61.2 PPG on the road.

So grab the points here and expect a solid cover at the very least. 8* play on Central Michigan. 

South Dakota/Northern Colorado

South Dakota is 5-3 and I think it's going to give 5-5 Northern Colorado a run for its money this evening.

The Coyotes come in off a 93-37 win over Waldorf College. Where's Waldorf? Erik Oliver solved the puzzle and scored 20 points and had had three rebounds as well.

Northern Colorado is off a tight 78-75 win over Montana on Saturday, getting 18 points from Daylen Kountz.

The Bears though are just 1-5 ATS in their last six following an ATS victory.

South Dakota on the other hand is 6-2 ATS in its last eight after scoring 90 or more points in a SU/ATS victory in its last outing.

This one is going to come down to the wire. I'm grabbing the points. South Dakota. 10* Game Of The Week. 

Cavs/Bucs

Why is everyone continuing to sleep on the Cavaliers? Cleveland comes into this one likely as the hottest team in the league after seven straight ATS victories.

Hows does that old saying go, good teams win, but great teams cover?

The Cavs had won four straight SU, before a tight 109-108 loss at home to Utah.

I like the Cavs to respond here in the second game of the back to back. The Bucks are dealing with injury issues and are preparing for a tough four-game road swing starting in Miami on Wednesday night.

And that's signficant to note, as the Bucks are off a 124-102 home win over the Heat in their most recent action Saturday.

Look for the under the radar visiting side to keep this one interesting late. 10* COACHES CORNER on Cavaliers. 

Ohio State/Penn State

Ohio State is off a 71-66 upset win over No. 1 Duke on Tuesday. It came from behind after being down by 13 points at halftime. EJ Lidell had 14 points and 11 boards, while Zed Key led all scorers with 20 points.

Call it a trap, call it a letdown, call you what you will, but I think that the Buckeyes are primed for a minor letdown here.

The 4-3 Penn State Nittany Lions don't have the same luxury though after falling 63-58 to Miami on Wednesday. John Harrar had 16 points, but the Nittany Lions turned the ball over 14 times. 

Ohio State averages 74.7 PPG, and it allows 68.9. Penn State is averaging 67.3 PPG, while conceding only 64.1. 

I say Ohio State has difficulty producing the same effort for a second straight time on the road. Look for the hungrier team to keep it close, if not come out on top. 10* COACHES CORNER on Penn State.

Spurs/Warriors

The Spurs are quietly playing their best basketball of the season. They've won three straight, most recently a 114-83 win at Portland. I love San Antonio here, and would recommend sprinkling a little on the moneyline as well.

Golden State bounced back with a huge 118-96 victory here last night against the Suns, revenging a loss at Phoenix a week earlier.

I say the Warriors get caught complacent here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

Note that GS is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight when playing the second game of a B2B after scoring 115 or more points in a SU/ATS victory in the first.

This is way too many points to be giving up to this much improved and confident Spurs side. I'm grabbing all these points. 8* PLAY on Spurs. 

Arkansas Little Rock/Arkansas

I think Arkansas takes the foot off the gas in the second half here as it gets caught looking ahead to the start of its conference schedule, starting with a tough game at Okalahoma, followed by at Mississippi State.

UALR has so far beaten the teams it should, and struggled against the "better" competition. That was the case last time out, falling 86-55 at Colorado State.

But this line is inflated here now. Note that UALR is 7-1 ATS in its last eight as well after a SU/ATS road loss in which it was held to 55 or less points in.

This line is a little TOO big. Look for a comfortable backdoor cover from the visiting side. UALR 10* COACHES CORNER. 

VMI/Portland

I think the hungry 4-4 VMI Keydets will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. 

The Portland Pilots come in complacent at 7-2 in my reckoning. 

The Keydets enter off an 88-40 blowout win over Summit. Kamdyn Curfman had 16 points. 

The Pilots have played some weak competition as well this year though, most recently a 77-68 win over Incarnate Word. Mike Meadows had 22 points and three boards in the win.

The Pilots though are a terrible 2-8 ATS in their last ten at home, while VMI is 6-2 ATS in its last eight after a SU/ATS win in which it held its opponent to 50 or fewer points in.

Grab the points. 8* PLAYBOOK on VMI. 

76ers/Hawks

I think this one sets up well for the hungry visiting side.

Philadelphia is 11-11, while Atlanta is 12-10.

The 76ers are off a tight 88-87 loss at Boston. Philly had to play from behind the entire night, and it was just unable to get over the hump at the end. With a tough upcoming two-game road set at Charlotte, the 76ers can't afford to take the foot off the gas.

The Hawks are off a 114-111 win at Indiana to open up December. When these teams played on October 30th, the 76ers won 122-94 as 3.5 point favorites and I expect a similar final discrepancy here as well.

This is a good matchup for Joel Embiid. He was shutdown by the Celtics, but finally we can expect a monster game from the Philly big man. 

There's plenty of talent on both sides of the ball. This is going to be a dog fight.

One last big stat working in favor of the visiting side sees the 76ers having gone 7-2 ATS in their last nine off a SU road loss in which they were held to 90 or fewer points in.

Grab the points. 10* GAME OF MONTH on Philadelphia. 

Pistons/Suns

I base my picks on many different things. Being flexible with one's approach is crucial in my opinion. Here I just think that the Suns are overvalued because of their 18 game win streak. They just took out the Warriors at home here two nights ago, and Golden State was on a 17-game win streak.

The Suns ultimately could care less about their win streak. They're realistic and understand it'll come to an end at some point. That won't be tonight. I believe the Suns will win, but I expect them to take the foot off the gas down the stretch as they prepare for the rematch with the Warriors in Golden State tomorrow night.

Look for the hungry Pistons to end their road trip with a solid effort and comfortable cover. 10* COACHES CORNER on the Pistons.

Lamar/Mississippi State

Two teams on opposite ends of the spectrum end their respective non-conference parts of their schedules here.

Mississippi State is 5-1 and Lamar is 1-6. 

I think the Bulldogs come in complacent and leave the back door open in the second half. They're off an emotional 82-71 OT win over Richmond last time out, and I think they're over-priced here.

The Cardinals are coming off a loss to Texas Tech. They've taken their lumps, but they have talent and experience and while the outright win is out of the question, the stage is definitely set here for a much tighter battle than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe. Grab all those points! 8* PLAY on Lamar. 

Rockets/Thunder

Houston has won and covered in three straight. That includes a 102-89 victory over OKC two nights ago at home. Normally I always "look" at the revenge factor, but here I don't think it matters at all.

And that's because the Rockets are still just 4-16 on the season. Houston is unquestionably playing its best basketball of the season right now and I expect it to keep the good times rolling here again. 

After six straight ATS covers, the Thunder finally stumbled in Houston last time out and I expect that trend to continue here.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has returned from injury for the Thunder, but it's not going to be enough here against this suddenly surging young Rockets team.

Grab the points though! 8* COACHES CORNER on Houston. 

Boston U/George Washington.

The 5-3 Boston Terriers are going to have their hands full with the 2-6 George Washington Colonials in my opinion.

Boston is off a tight 61-60 win over Merrimack. Overall the Terriers average 69.9 PPG, while allowing 63.6.

The Colonials are out to rebound off a 72-54 loss to a tough Missouri State team. George Washington averages 63.3 PPG, while allowing 71.4. 

Clearly, if just looking at each side's offensive and defensive numbers, the visitors would seem to be the correct call.

But that's not the case. Strength of schedule has to be taken into account here. 

I like the Colonials to defend home court and find a way to deliver in this one. 8* MID MAJOR MONEY TIME on George Washington.

Pistons/Blazers

Portland has gone 0-3 SU/ATS over its last three. I expect it to come in focussed on the task at hand in this one.

Detroit lost both games in LA, but covered in each as a big underdog.

The Pistons though are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after back-to-back road covers.

Portland on the other hand is 7-1 ATS in its last eight after after three straight SU/ATS road losses in a row.

The Blazers have always played better at home, and that's definitely the case again this season, as they're just 1-10 on the road and 9-1 in Portland.

Detroit is just 2-8 on the road.

Look for the determined home side to keep the foot on the gas until the final horn. 10* COACHES CORNER on Portland. 

Montana/Oregon

Montana is pretty good, but I expect Oregon to lay the hammer down from start to finish tonight.

The Grizzlies are 4-2, most recently scoring a 74-62 win over Southern Miss on Friday. Lonnell Martin Jr. had 20 points in the victory. 

Oregon is 3-3 after back-to-back losses. Most recently the Ducks got smashed 78-49 by HOuston. Eric Williams Jr. had 13 points in the losing cause.

Here's the perfect opponent to get back on track against. Montana excels on the defensive end, conceding just 60.3 PPG. Oregon isn't far behind allowing 66.5. 

The Ducks have routinely been one of the best defensive teams in the nation, but there's still lots of time to make adjustments.

Both teams also sport similar offensive numbers. 

Montana's early schedule has to be called into question here. Also note that the Grizzlies are a terrible 1-5 against the spread in their last six on the road.

When Montana faced Mississippi State this year, it conceded 86 points.

I'm laying the points here and expecting a blowout. Oregon 8* PLAYBOOK. 

UTA/USU

UTA has lost all four games it's played this year against Division 1 opponents and its path doesn't get any easier this evening at Utah State. All that said though, I like the Mavericks to keep this one much closer than what this spread is suggesting.

UTA is already quietly turning the corner with its performance, losing to SDSU by six points in its last outing (as a 19-point underdog.)

Utah State enters complacent here after four straight wins. The Aggies won the Myrtle Beach championship with a 73-70 win over the Sooners last Sunday, so this sets up as a classic "trap" for the home side in my opinion.

Utah State may have been undervalued in the betting market up to this point, but now it's the Mavericks who are in that role.

UTA is playing much better now than its earlier struggles and numbers are still pointing to, so expect that progression to continue here.

Grab the points. Texas Arlington 10* GAME OF MONTH. 

Heat/Bulls

The Heat have lost two of their last three, while the Bulls have lost two of three as well.

These are two of the best in the East, but each is looking to snap out of their current mini-slides. 

Both teams are loaded with talent, so it wouldn't be too difficult to write a convincing argument either way.

The Bulls though are off a satisfying 123-88 road win at Olrando just last night (they're only 1-6 ATS in their last seven after a SU/ATS road win in which they posted 120 or more points in.)

Expect fatigue to be a factor here for Chicago and lay the points. 8* Top Tussle on Heat. 

Wolves/Hornets

The Wolves are 9-9, but they come in red hot as they've won five of their last six. 

The Hornets are 12-8 overall, and they've won seven of their last eight games. 

The Wolves have been sharp defensively, allowing just 105 PPG. The combination of Karl Anthony Towns, Anthony Edwards and Patrick Beverley has been very effective.

LaMelo Ball leads the nightly charge for the Hornets. He is averaging 19.8 points, 8.1 boards and 7.7 assists this year. While Charlotte does average 112.2 PPG (ranked third), it struggles defensively, ranked 22nd in defensive rating so far this season.

The Hornets are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten vs. the Western Conference and I think this is a bad matchup for them.

Grab the points, but don't be shocked by an outright. 8* PICK on Wolves. 

Baylor/VCU

This is the semi's of the Bad Boy Mowers Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament. I like VCU to carry over its momentum here after upsetting Syracuse 67-55 as a 5-point underdog. 

It's early, but the Rams average 54 PPG, while allowing 52. Levi Stockard III had 15 points in the victory over the Orange.

Baylor is a perfect 5-0. Its' averaging 85.8 points per game, while conceding 55.6. LJ Cryer had 15 points in the Bears 75-63 win over Arizona State last night.

Clearly VCU will be trying to double down on the defensive end tonight to try and grind out the upset. Expect this one to be much closer than what this line is suggesting. VCU 10* COACHES CORNER. 

Heat/Wolves.

Miami is off a 100-92 win at Detroit, unable to cover the 10.5-point spread. The Heat have lost two straight ATS. With two nights off after this, followed by a final road game at Chicago, I think Miami gets caught flat-footed again here.

The Wolves are getting zero respect from the oddsmakers. They're slow in realizing how good Minnesota is playing right now. Minnesota has won four straight and covered in five straight. This is the best basketball that Minnesota has played in years.

Note that the Wolves are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a SU/ATS road win in which they held their opponent to 99 or less points in (just beat Pels 110-96 in NO.)

Grab the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Wolves. 

Hampton/USF.

The Hampton Pirates are 2-3, and the USF Bulls are 2-2.

Hampton won its first two games, but has since lost three straight. It'll be motivated here and I like wagering on motivated teams. The Pirates most recently lost 86-66 to Georiga Southern, led by Russell Dean with 30 points and three assists.

USF is off a 58-52 loss to Auburn. Caleb Murphy was a bright spot in a losing cause with 19 points.

The Bulls though are a poor 1-9 ATS in their last ten following an ATS victory.

USF gets caught looking past its lowly opponent today as its hangover from the "near miss" vs. the Tigers carries over.

Grab the points. 8* Situational Slam Dunk. 

Heat/Pistons.

Is Miami the better team?

Clearly it is.

Am I calling for an outright upset?

I am not.

But I think that Miami comes in complacent here and "plays down" to the level of its competition. 

Miami is 11-6 overall, but only 5-5 on the road. It's off a 103-100 loss at Washington. 

Detroit is off the 121-116 loss to the Lakers, and it'll be plenty fired up after the scuffle with LeBron James etc.

The Pistons are on the road for a very tough road trip as well after this game, with a game at Milwaukee tomorrow, followed by the Clippers, Lakers, Portland and Phoenix. That puts added importance onto tonight's game to try and "steal" a victory.

Miami on the other hand is in Minnesota tomorrow night, followed by a game at the Bulls. I think the Heat get caught looking ahead.

No outright. Grab the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Detroit. 

Evanvsille/Vermont.

Evansville is 2-4, while Vermont is 3-2.

The Aces lost 109-104 to Rice last time out. Hamar Givance leads the way with 13 points and four assists per game.

So far the Purple Aces have allowed 71.3 PPG, while averaging 63.

The Catamounts are off a 63-61 loss to Oakland. They average 66.2 PPG, while allowing 57.6 (Ryan Davis leads the Catamounts in scoring with 18 PPG.)

The early numbers on paper favor Vermont, but the competition of each side has to be taken into account to this point.

These teams are more evenly matched than what this spread is trying to suggest. Grab the points. 10* GAME OF WEEK Evansville. 

Grizzlies/Jazz

The Grizzlies had won two straight, scoring at least 120 points in each before getting blown out in their last game. 

Ja Morant averages 25.1 PPG for Memphis and he leads four players that average at least 14 PPG. 

The Jazz had lost four of five, before now entering this one having won three straight. Six players scored in double figures in the win over the Kings most recently.

One of these teams is desperate to break out of its current slide, while the other comes in complacent.

I think the hungrier team keeps this one competitive down the stretch (note that the Grizz are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a 30 points or greater SU/ATS road loss in their last outing.)

Grab the points. 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Grizzlies.

Cal Poly Slo/Nicholls State

This is the Cal Poly Slo men's basketball program's lengthiest road trip in 51 years as the SoCal challenge continues. 

Cal Poly looks to snap a three-game slide, and that's noteworthy, as the Mustangs are 7-2 ATS in their last nine following a three games or longer losing streak. 

Nicholls State (3-2), had a three-game, season-opening win streak stopped with B2B road defeats at defending national champion Baylor (89-60) on Nov. 15th and TCU (63-50) on Nov. 1st.

One player to keep your eyes on today is Alimamy Koroma, who is averaging 13.5 PPG this year. 

Note as well that Nicholls State is just 2-8 ATS in its last ten as a favorite in the -5 to -7.5 points range vs. non-conference opponents.

Grab the points. 8* Cal Poly Slo. 

Southern/Nebraska

Southern lost its second straight game in a heart-breaking 71-68 loss to South Dakota State this past Friday. While it won the turnover battle 17-13, it lost the rebound battle by a 37-27 margin. Jayden Saddler had 19 points in a losing cause for the Jaguars.

Southern averages 66 PPG, while allowing 73.5. Nebraska averages 73.8 PPG, while allowing 69.2. 

The Cornhuskers enter off a 78-60 win over Idaho State. Keep your eyes on Bryce McGowens today, as he is averaging 16.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1 assist per game in the early going.

The Huskers are 4-0-1 ATS in their last five though vs. teams with losing records and 4-0 ATS in their last four against teams with losing road records.

Southern has played decently, but I say this step up in competition will be too much for it to handle.

Lay the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Nebraska. 

Western Illinois/DePaul.

A couple of 3-0 teams collide in this one and I expect it to be a real "nail biter." Western Illinois beat Iowa Wesleyan in its last outing, while DePaul held on for a three-point win over Rutgers in its last outing.

Western Illinois does also have a nice quality win over Nebraska already as well. Will Caries led the team with 16 points, two assists and two steals in their most recent win.

David Jones had 22 points and five boards for DePaul in its last outing against Rutgers.

The Lumberjacks are 8-2 ATS in their last ten as a road favorite though. DePaul managed a win last time out despite getting out-played in several key categories.

No outright, but closer than expected for sure. 8* MAULING on Western Illinois. 

Heat/Wizards

Miami is off five straight covers and four straight victories. With two nights off before a game at Detroit though, I think the Heat come out cold here.

Washington plays with revenge after a 112-97 loss at Miami just two nights ago (and that's sigificant to note as the Wizards are 8-2 ATS in their last ten in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which they were held to 99 or fewer points in.)

I think home court matters in this one for sure. The play is Washington. 10* PLAYBOOK on Washington. 

Bulls/Nuggets

In my professional opinion, this is a great "spot bet." A great spot to bet the Nuggets here who come in off back-to-back losses, including last night's humbling 103-89 setback to Philadelphia.

That's back-to-back losses for the Nuggets now after they had won four straight. With a tough two-game road trip at Phoenix and Portland this week, tonight's game takes on added importance to bounce back.

The Bulls have been great this year. They've already exceeded my expectations. They looked impressive in taking out both the Clippers and Lakers to open up their road trip, but off a loss at Portland last time out, I think they're primed for another letdown here in the finale of their Western swing.

Nikola Vucevic is out for the Bulls, to the advantage goes to Nikola Jokic tonight. 

The Nuggets are still 4-0 ATS in their last four at home, while the Bulls are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight road games against a team with a home winning percentage above .600.

Lay the points. 8* PROFITS on Nuggets. 

Charlotte/App State 

Charlotte is 2-0 and I think it'll take 2-1 App State down to the wire (at the very least!)

Most recently the 49ers beat SC Upstate 76-64, while the Mountaineers hammered William Peace by a score of 98-49 in their last matchup.

The 49ers are led by Jahmir Young, who averages 19.5 PPG, while the Mountaineers are led by James Lewis Jr., who scored 15 points in his team's latest blowout.

App State though is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 90 or more points in its previous game.

As for Charlotte, it's 7-2 ATS in its last nine after two or more straight ATS losses in a row.

Grab the points.

Charlotte. 8* SPECIAL. 

I don't think New Orleans will win this game straight up. If I did, I'd take it at +280.

But I do think the Pels can keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch.

Clearly Miami is the better team. It's loaded with talent. The Pelicans are still without their best player in Zion Williamson until the new year. If you want a complete break down of every player on both teams and their strengths and weaknesses, then I'd recommend heading over to ESPN for an update.

I'm here to tell you why New Orleans is going to keep this one close!

The Heat have covered in three straight, but with the surging Wizards coming to town tomorrow, I say they get caught "looking ahead."

Grab the points, this one has all the makings of a nail-biter!

8* COACHES PLAY-BOOK Pelicans. 

Suns/Wolves

The Suns are 9-3 after their 115-89 win at Houston last night. With two upcoming home games against Dallas starting on Wednesday, followed by Denver and a four-game road trip, I think Phoenix finally stumbles here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

Minnesota is off a 129-102 loss at the Clippers. The night before that they hammered the Lakers 107-83. 

Now the Wolves return home and I expect this healthy team to make a game of this one.

Phoenix is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight in the second game of a B2B after holding its previous opponent to 95 or fewer points in the first. 

10* GAME OF WEEK Minnesota. 

Northwestern State/SMU

Northwestern State is 1-2 SU, but 3-0 ATS. SMU is 1-1 SU and 0-2 ATS. 

The Demons beat lowly Champion Christian last time out by a score of 91-62. Kendal Coleman had 19 points and 11 boards.

SMU enters off an 86-63 loss to a good Oregon team. Emmanual Bandoumel was good in a losing cause with 14 points, five boards and one assist. 

The Mustangs are the bigger and more athletic team. The Demons haven't faced any tough teams yet.

This is a David vs. Goliath matchup, but in this version, Goliath stomps the underdog through the hardwood. 8* MID-MAJOR MAULING on SMU.

Bulls/Clippers

The Bulls West-Coast opener didn't go so well in Golden State, but I think this young, deep and talented visiting side can bounce back here and before the face the Lakers tomorrow night in this building.

This is the second game of a back-to-back for the Clippers, who pulled away for a win and cover against the Wolves last night.

Fatigue is an issue now at this point of the season. LA is dealing with several injury issues as well.

The Bulls are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a SU/ATS road loss in which they allowed 120 or more points in as well.

I think the outright upset is in the cards. That said, let's grab the points.

8* SITUATIONAL COACHES CORNER on the Bulls. 

WKU/South Carolina

Both teams are 1-1, but I like WKU to come out on top here. The Hilltoppers beat Alabama State, then it came up short against Minnesota. 

The Gamecocks enter off a tight loss to Princeton and I believe they'll struggle again here.

After only scoring 23 points in the first half against the Golden Gophers, WKU made a game of it last time out, eventually falling 73-69. I think Davyion McKnight, who had 34 points, nine boards and four assists, and company will keep the momentum rolling here. 

South Carolina beat USC Upstate, but then lost 66-62 to Princeton. 

Off that 46 point second half, look for the Hilltoppers to keep that good times rolling.

8* MAULING on WKU. 

Wolves/Clippers.

I like the Wolves to keep the momentum rolling here after their big win over the Lakers last night. The Clippers are off a 112-109 win over Miami, but with a more high-profile nationally televised game against the Bulls here tomorrow night, I think the home side gets caught looking ahead.

Minnesota broke a six-game slide in last night's 107-83 win here against the Lakers last night. Fatigue won't be an issue this early in the season. Note that the Wolves are 6-1 ATS in their last seven after a SU/ATS road victory in which they held their opponent to 90 points or fewer in as well.

I won't call for the upset, but I think the confident Wolves take this one down to the wire again. 8* play on the Wolves. 

Davidson/San Fran.

Davidson destroyed Delaware 93-71 at home on Tuesday, but I think it'll struggle to duplicate that success in this difficult road venue.

The Dons smashed Prairie View A&M 92-76 on Thursday and they're now 2-0 SU. Davidson was 13-9 last year, but it lost its offensive heart in Kellan Grady to Kentucky.

San Fran won't win the the conference, as it's in the same one as Gonzaga, but this is the best Dons team on the floor in years. They return four starters from last year and are led by Jamaree Bouyea, who had 24 points last time out.

Look for the Wildcats to struggle on the road against this vastly improed Dons team. 8* MAULING on San Francisco. 

Pistons/Cavaliers.

I've been impressed by the Cavaliers this year. They're 7-5 SU and they've won six straight against the spread. The recent loss of Colin Sexton is going to catch up to them though, and I firmly believe that'll be sooner, rather than later.

The Cavs get caught looking ahead to their game here against Boston tomorrow night, while Detroit will look to take advantage.

The Pistons have covered in two straight and they're off a big 112-104 outright win at Houston as 2.5-point underdogs last time out.

This one sets up as a possible outright upset, but grab the points. 10* COACHES CORNER on Pistons.

VMI/Presbyterian

The Blue Hose are 0-1, while the Keydets are 1-0. I think VMI is the correct call here.

The Keydets smoked Carlow University in their opener, while Presbyterian fell to Clemson. 

The Keydets though are 6-1 ATS in their last seven as a favorite, while teh Blue Hose are interesting 0-11 ATS in their last 11 games played on a Friday and just 1-5 ATS in their last six off an ATS victory.

Outright is possible, but I'm grabbing the points. 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on VMI.

Raptors/76ers

I like Toronto to bounce back here after last night's 104-88 loss at Boston.

The 76ers are ravaged by COVID right now and I expect the Raptors to quickly regroup here and to take advantage.

The Raptors have performed well in this position by going 7-1 ATS in their last eight after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. I'm not buying into the "fatigue factor" this early in the season either.

Philadelphia has lost two in a row, and with a six game Western road swing on deck after this, I expect it to go through the motions here as it prepares for that daunting trek.

Look for the Raptors to deliver on Thursday night.

10* COACHES CORNER on Toronto. 

Air Force/South Dakota.

The home side went 14-11 last year. The Falcons on the other hand won just five games last season, and they have almost an entirely new roster this year (AJ Walker is back, he averaged 15.3 points, 3.0 boards and 2.6 assists.) 

Overall the Falcons averaged only 58.7 PPG last year. 

South Dakota averaged 79 PPG, and this year it'll lean on A.J. Plitzuweit, who last year averaged 19.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

The Coyotes have four of their starters back this year. After going 0-4 in non-conference play last year, I think South Dakota comes in focussed here. Lay the points.

10* SPECIAL on South Dakota. 

FAU/New Mexico

FAU finished 13-10 last year and it's looking for its third straight winning season under coach Dusty May. New Mexico was terrible last season, finishing 6-16. The Owls went 7-5 in Conf. USA play. There are two double-digit scoring options on FAU. The Owls put up 78.1 PPG last year. 

The Lobos have plenty of issues coming into the season. Offense was the biggest issue, as New Mexico averaged only 65.3 PPG. 

The Lobos were terrible last year and it's going to take some time for Pitino to gets things turned around. I like the Owls to lay the hammer down here in what will be a hostile environment. 10* Coaches Corner on FAU.

Hornets/Grizzlies.

I'm expecting an all out war until the final horn. 

10* PLAY-BOOK on Charlotte. The Hornets played a back-to-back at LA, losing badly to the Clippers, but then bouncing back with a much better effort in what turned out to be an unfortunate 126-123 OT loss to the Lakers.

The Hornets have now lost five in a row (both SU and ATS), but I expect them, at the very least, to give the Grizz everything they can handle tonight.

Memphis off a tiring 125-118 OT home win over the Wolves, so I believe fatigue is a factor here. Also note that it's a look-ahead spot with Phoenix coming to town next.

I believe these teams are evenly matched on paper. That gives the advantage here to the "hungrier" team, which as I've clearly pointed out above, is the Hornets in my opinion. 10* Charlotte.

Miami Ohio/Georgia Tech.

I like Georgia Tech to roll over its MAC opponent today. The Yellow Jackets finished 17-9 overall last year, including 11-6 in the ACC. GT returns five of its top seven scorers from last year. 

The Jackets warmed up for this game by hosting Morehouse in an exhibition contest on Oct. 31st, defeating the Maroon Tigers, 89-52.

The Redhawks finished 12-11 overall and 9-8 in conference play. Miami will be improved, with nine of its ten players returning, but I still don't think it'll be enough here.

Tech is too deep and I expect it to send an early statement on its own floor. Lay the points, the play is GT.

Siena/St. Bonaventure.

Sienna was 12-5 last year, taking the reg. season co-championship in the MAAC, while St. Bonaventure easily won the A-10 and went on to play in the NCAA Tournament.

Siena eventually lost 55-52 to Iona in the Conference Tournament semifinal. 

The Bonnies however also won the regular season title over VCU, and eventually fell 76-61 to LSU in the First Round.

The Saints are just 1-4 ATS in their last five on the road. The Bonnies are 22-7-2 ATS in their last 31 at home.

All five senior starters return for St. Bonaventure, so lay the points here!

10* Bonnies. 

Dallas Mavs @ Denver Nuggets

Denver is just 2-2. It's definitely looking to rebound off a 122-110 loss at Utah two nights ago.

Here's the perfect opponent and opportunity to do just that. Dallas is now 3-1 after last night's come from behind 104-99 home win over the Spurs. With a much easier home game against Sacramento up next, this sets up as a very real potential letdown spot for the visiting side.

Denver's had two whole nights off to regroup and prepare for this one. The Nuggets hit the road for three straight as well after this, starting in Minnesota tomorrow night. That puts added importance onto this contest for the home side.

Whether Joker plays or not for Denver, I think the well prepared and much hungrier home side is the correct call here.

Kristaps Porzingis is not the players he once was. He's constantly injured and may not even play for Dallas tonight. Luka Doncic is unbelievable, but after shouldering the load last night, I say he comes in fatigued here.

Look for the Nuggets to find a way to deliver here. The play is Denver.

Charlotte Hornets @ Orlando Magic

The Hornets have been pretty good in the early going. They're 3-1. That includes going 2-0 straight-up and against-the-spread on the road.

The Magic have been pretty much garbage to open, as they're just 1-3. That includes going 0-1 SU/ATS at home.

Off a tough 140-129 OT home loss to Boston, a game that they led most of the way, I expect this young and talented Hornets team to take out its frustrations on this young and rebuilding Magic side.

Orlando was most recently torched 107-90 at Miami on Monday.

A game at home is not what the doctor ordered either to get back on track for the Magic, who are a putrid 1-8-1 ATS in their last ten at home (also a disturbing 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 as an underdog.) 

The Hornets on the other hand are 38-12-1 ATS in their last 51 games vs a team with a winning percentage below .400.

Everything is in place for a lop-sided road destruction for the Hornets. The play is Charlotte.

Memphis Grizzlies @ LA Lakers

The Grizzlies are off a relatively simple 120-114 road win here over the Clippers just last night and I expect them to keep the momentum rolling here. If this were the end of the season, I'd likely avoid playing on a team in the second game of a back-to-back, but in this case, I don't expect fatigue to be an issue whatsoever.

Instead, I think Ja Morant and the opportunistic Grizz are to send a statement by beating both LA teams on two straight night's in their own building. 

Morant had 28 points in last night's win, while De'Anthony Melton added 22 points on nine of 16 shooting.

The Lakers have issues. They're 0-2, most recently falling 115-105 at home to the Suns. LA shot just 39 percent from the field in the setback. 

LA is also 0-4 ATS in its last four home games. 

I expect this one to come right down to the wire. As such, grab the points and the Grizzlies.

Golden State Warriors @ Los Angeles Lakers

These teams put together very different preseasons and I think their performances matter to open the season.

Golden State went 5-0 and LA went 0-6. The Lakers have plenty of talent, but they'll be without the services of Trevor Ariza, Wayne Ellington, Malik Monk, Kendrick Nunn and Talen Horton-Tucker. The Warriors will be without the services of Jonathan Kuminga, Klay Thompson and James Wiseman.

The preseason is not a good indicator of what will transpire in the regular season, but Golden State comes in with confidence and while it may struggle to post an outright upset, I do think this one will get decided in the final moments. 

Because of that, let's grab the points! The play is the Warriors.

The home team has won each game so far, and I believe that it will continue here in Game 5. The Bucks have been excellent the past two games, especially 2-time MVP and DPOY Giannis Antetokoumnpo. The Greek Freak had  41, 13 and 6 in Game 3 in that crucial game. He followed that up with another stellar performance last time out where he dropped 26 while having 14 rebounds and 8 assists. Now, we head back to Phoenix, Arizona where the Suns have looked nearly unstoppable this postseason. Phoenix point guard, Chris Paul, was definitely not his best in Game 4, as he struggled with his ball-handling and his shooting. CP3 is one of the best players in the league to have not won a championship. Every single time he would reach the playoffs, an injury got in the way of his success. Finally, the Suns provided that opportunity and I expect him to have one of his best games of his career this next game as he's also one of the clutchest performers in the NBA. Don't forget, the Suns also have Devin Booker, one of the newest Superstars of the league, who just dropped a 42-piece, as well as former #1 ovr pick Deandre Ayton. Bridges, Cam Payne, and Crowder have been huge as well. Look for Phoenix to take it to the Bucks from the opening Tip-Off and keep the pressure on them the entire game.  Take  phoenix - 3 1/2.

The set-up: The Suns are in the cusp of punching their ticket to the NBA Finals. I think Phoenix will win this series, but it could have its hands full here in Game 5 in trying to put away this desperate Clippers team. LA lost 84-80 in Game 4, and it now has its back against the wall in this elimination contest. 

The pick: I think LA is going to show up and play well defensively and after a poor shooting game last time out, I also expect Paul George to be much more efficient here. The Suns are the better team, but I think this one will come down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last. I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Clippers.

The set-up: I just think the Clippers are going to dig deep and deliver the goods in this Game 3. They won't be panicking, as they've already been here in their two previous series, going down 0-2, only to then rally for a series victory. I got down early and have an unfavorable line, and while the Clippers are now the slight home dog, I still think that the change in venue is just what Paul George and this veteran-laden Clippers team needs to get back into this series. 

The pick: Game 2 was tight, and the Clippers had their chances at the end. I say Game 3 is controlled start to finish by the home side. Chris Paul won't be at 100% health and I think LA's competent guards can slow him down even further. For all the reasons listed above, the play is LA.

This is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Clippers.

The set-up: The Atlanta Hawks are averaging 106.3 points on 44.4 percent shooting and allowing 105 points in the playoffs, while the Milwaukee Bucks are averaging 107.9 points on 45.1 percent shooting and allowing 102.3 points so far in the post-season. The Bucks were one of the favorites to advance in the East before the season started, but the Hawks rise to this point is nothing short of spectacular. Clearly, Atlanta has already exceeded expectations to this point. 

The pick: I think Milwaukee is going to win this series. I don't think it'll sweep Atlanta though. That said, I do think that the Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo is a major matchup issue for the Hawks and I believe that Atlanta is going to struggle down the stretch of this opener. I'm laying points and expecting a comfortable cover for the home side in Game 1.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Bucks.

The set-up: The Clippers ran out of gas in the fourth quarter, but despite only shooting 45 percent from the floor, they still had a shot at upsetting the Suns in Game 1. Phoenix didn't look overly impressive and I believe the Clippers can make the necessary adjustments to not only make Game 2 even more competitive, but possibly even pull off the straight-up upset here. 

The pick: The continued absence of Chris Paul won't help this Suns team over the long-term. He'll likely return soon, but he's out again tonight. So is Kawhi Leonard for the Clippers, but LA is deep and experienced and I believe it throws it best shot at the Suns tonight. That said, grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Clippers.

The set-up: Some cappers put a lot of stock into where the public money is going. Most sharps are contrarian by nature. When there's just a few games remaining though, those percentages of public money become skewed. I think they're much more accurate during the regular season. Most of the public money is on the Hawks, but in this case I think the public is correct. 

The pick: This is going to be a battle. It has been all series. Very back and forth and very close. Nothing's going to change here. Note though that the Hawks are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which they were held to 100 points or less in. This one comes down the final moments, so grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Hawks.

The set-up: The Nets would have easily won this series if not for injuries to James Harden and Kyrie Irving. I don't think that Kevin Durant is the best basketball player of all time, but he's clearly been the best players in this series. Even better than the Bucks Giannis, who has played very well himself. But KD is going to be exhausted at this point and after the Game 6 collapse, I think the Bucks can smell the blood in the water. 

The pick: Further, note that Milwaukee is 7-1 ATS in its last eight after holding its previous opponent to 90 points or less in a SU/ATS home victory. Milwaukee's depth will prove to be the difference here vs. this wounded and undermanned Nets side. 

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Bucks.

The set-up: With a chance to end this series here and now, I like the Hawks chances to do just that. This is a well-coached team that continues to get underestimated, both by its opponents, and the bookmakers. It's Atlanta that is controlling the pace and flow of this series and I say nothing changes here in this crucial contest. Philadelphia has the best player on the floor in Joel Embiid, but the Hawks counter with the second best player in this series in Trae Young. 

The pick: The bottom line here though is that Atlanta's defense has been the difference-maker for it during the playoffs and I like the Hawks to continue that run here in this crucial Game 6. Outright win is completely possible obviously, but let's grab the points just in case.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Hawks.

The set-up: Despite both Kyrie Irving and James Harden sitting this one out, I think Kevin Durant and his cast of role players can take this inconsistent Bucks team down to the wire. 

The pick: I think that Blake Griffin, Jeff Green and Joe Harris will have significantly better games at home. The Bucks are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven on the road. Clearly, the outright win isn't out of the question, but also note that Brooklyn is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 at home. I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Nets.

The set-up: The Hawks have been fantastic at making game-to-game adjustments since Nate McMillan took over as head coach. I think that happens again here. Atlanta is now desperate to avoid an 0-3 hole and I like the Hawks to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Note that Philly is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after back-to-back SU/ATS victories in a row as well. 

The pick: ATL on the other hand is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to revenge a 15 points or greater SU/ATS home loss to an opponent. Look for Trae Young to have a monster game for the Hawks' defense to finally show up as well. Outright is obviously possible, but grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Hawks.

The set-up: Brooklyn looked like it was going to roll over the Bucks in this series, but then it shifted to Milwaukee and the Bucks somehow managed to hold on for the 86-83 victory. It was a back and forth game and really, Milwaukee did not win that one by very much obviously. But I think that Game 4 finally sets up as a great spot for the Bucks to bounce back with a convincing win.

The pick: Brooklyn's role players aren't contributing and it's two super stars are now worn out, as the continued absence of "The Beard" is now taking its toll on the Nets. I like Giannis and company to lay the hammer down here. Outright win is obvious, but let's grab the points anyways.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Bucks.

The set-up: I think the Clippers have a legitimate shot at taking Game 2 outright. LA let a lead slip away in Game 1, and it had a shot at sending it to OT late, but ultimately while LA covered in Game 1, it lost outright. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George continue to play well though and the Clippers have the defensive toughness to make adjustments and play better against Donovan Mitchell and the Jazz. 

The pick: LA is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it allowed 110 or more points in. I say that this one comes right down to the wire (at the very least) as well, and that's why I'm recommending to grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the LA Clippers.

The set-up: The Hawks destroyed the 76ers in Game 1. Well, they did for three quarters anyways, and then they took the foot off the gas and allowed Philly to make a game of it. Atlanta never trailed though and I think the Hawks have a legimtate shot at taking Game 2 as well. Atlanta looked especially good on the defensive side for three quarters. 

The pick: Is 76ers big man Joel Embiid back to 100% health? He wasn't in top form in Game 1 and the uncertainty in Game 2 is definitely not going to help this 76ers offense. When Embiid is in the line-up, the offense is run through him, but his injury makes it awkward and difficult to game-plan in the short-term. The Hawks are 100% healthy, hungry and Nate McMillan has been brilliant in making adjustments from game to game and I expect him to have another masterpiece planned tonight. Grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Hawks.

The set-up: I'm expecting an absolute war until the final horn. In fact, this game could even go to extra's, that's how competitive it's been. LA's only averaed 108 points here during the playoffs, while Dallas has averaged 115 on the road.

The pick: The Mavericks are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which they were held to 100 points or less in. Outright victory? Of course. Dallas has already proven it can win here. In the end though, let's grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: We haven't yet really witnessed the true power of these Brooklyn Nets. Kyrie Irving, KD and James Harden only played in eight regular seaosn games together, and Brooklyn still finished No. 2 in scoring behind the Bucks. Both teams rolled through their first round opponents, but was most impressive to me was how well the Nets played defensively against the Celtics.

The pick: The Heat were completely pathetic. I think Boston could have beaten Miami if they played in the first round. I expect the Nets' Big 3 to take this personally and to send an early message. A great "situational" play here, so lay the points.

This is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Nets.

The set-up: These teams are evenly matched, but this is the biggest spread so far in the series. I think the outright upset is very possible here, but in the end I'm going to grab the points. The Nuggets have a chance to close out this series here and now after their 147-140 OT win. Damian Lillard had a truly monster game for the Blazers, and Portland still couldn't pull off the upset. I don't see the Blazers being able to push this one to a Game 7. 

The pick: Nikola Jokic continues to put up impressive numbers and Denver's depth and experience is paying huge dividends right now. The Nuggets are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine as a road dog in the +4.5 to +6.5 points range. In a contest which I see being decided late, I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Nuggets.

The set-up: I think LeBron James and the Lakers have more than enough fight in them to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. AD can still return to this series, and LA will be looking great heading home to Game 6 if it can somehow pull off an upset. I don't see much of a drop off here with Andre Drummond ready step and fill the void left by Davis. 

The pick: Chris Paul and Devon Booker are going to have their hands full with LA's elite defense. The Lakers are one of the best in defending the perimeter and I believe the visiting side will double down on that end of the court tonight. I'm not counting out King James in this big game situation. While the outright victory is possible, in the end let's grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Lakers.

The set-up: I say the Wizards don't go down without a fight here. Note that Philadelphia is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after three or more straight SU/ATS victories in a row. 

The pick: Washington is also 8-3 ATS in its last 11 in a "double revenge" spot against an opponent, so the fact that this is a "triple revenge" spot makes this play even stronger. I think the outright win is a possibiity as well. I say Washington fights until the final moments. Grab the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Wizards.

The set-up: The Nets suddenly are facing some adversity. The Celtics finally made some adjustments and combined with a little "home cooking" Jayson Tatum and company looked much better in their upset Game 3 victory. And now I believe Boston will keep the foot on the gas here to try and even things up.

The pick: The Nets have all the talent in the World, but dominating in the regular season and doing well in the playoffs are two entirely different things. Brooklyn's weakness all year has been on the defensive end and I expect it to regress here in this now pressure situation. While the outright is possible, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Boston Celtics.

The set-up: Philadelphia won the first two games at home, but I expect a minor letdown here in its first game away from friendly confines. Russell Westbrook is listed as questionable for this game, and while I do expect him to play, whether he does or not I still love Bradley Beal and the revenge-minded Wizards to claw tooth and nail at home, and at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. 

The pick: Note that the Wizards are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge back-to-back losses to an opponent. With their backs against the wall, look for the Wizards to put forth their best effort so far in this series and in the process, easily cover this spread. Grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Wizards.

The set-up: So far Brooklyn has clearly been the better team. I knew the Nets could score, but it's been their defensive play which has been the suprising thing over their first two victories in this series. I didn't think though that the Celtics would win this series, but I also don't expect it go get swept. This is it, do or die for Boston, as clearly an 0-3 hole would be just too big for it to climb out of. 

The pick: Boston is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge back-to-back SU/ATS losses to an opponent. The Nets somehow managed to hold Boston star Jayson Tatum to just nine points in Game 2, but I expect an entirely different effort from the All Star at home. Expect a much grittier effort from Boston today (and grab as many points as you can!)

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the Celtics.

The set-up: The Clippers are clearly getting too much respect here after their 113-103 Game 1 loss. Dallas has a golden opportunity to take a commanding series lead here and I think the pressure is fully on the home side. Note that Dallas is 7-2 ATS in its last nine off a ten points or greater SU/ATS road victory. 

The pick: The Clippers actually lost the last two games of the regular season on purpose to avoid playing the Lakers, and now they're going to pay the price. Note that the Mavericks are 5-2 ATS in their last seven on the road, while the Clippers are just 1-4 ATS in their last five at home. Outright is possible, but let's grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Mavericks.

The set-up: The Heat lost Game 1 by a score of 109-107. I say that's a moral victory for the Heat, as both Jimmy Butler and Bam Abedayo had horrible games. And despite that, Miami took the mighty Bucks to OT on their own floor and even had a shot at the outright victory. Last year the Heat took out the Bucks in the Eastern Conference Finals. Miami coach Eric Spolestra was masterful with his adjustments from game-to-game last year, and with a fully healthy club to draw upon here, I expect him to do just that.

The pick: The Bucks have to get a huge game every night from Giannis. I'm positive the Milwaukee star will deliver with another big performance here, but I think Miami's depth and experience can at the very least, once again keep this one close until the final moments. Grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Heat.

The set-up: The Hawks and Knicks in the playoffs. Who'd have thought? New York was consistent all season, but a great second half push has it in the drivers seat in this series. Atlanta's entire season changed when it hired Nate McMillan as head coach. Both teams avoided having to play in the "play in" tournament, and each got here using different styles of play. The Hawks push the pace and use their incredible shooting efficiency to stretch defenses, while the Knicks are better on the defensive end, wearing teams down and then also using efficient shooting themselves. It's an interesting confilct in styles, but I think the Hawks offer great value here to pull off the slight upset in Game 1.

The pick: The Knicks are going to have difficulties keeping pace with Trae Young and company in my opinion. Also note that the Knicks are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine when playing with three or more days of rest. The staget is set for a big upset in the opener.

This is a 10* FIRST ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR on the Hawks.

The set-up: The Celtics are dealing with injury issues, but they still have loads of talent and experience playing together. They also come off a commanding win over the Wizards, a team which I'd say is almost identical to the Nets. Brooklyn doesn't play defense, and that's not going to win any championships.

The pick: Boston is a big underdog, but it won't go down with a fight. Especially in Game 1. Note as well that Boston is 7-2 ATS in its last nine as a road dog in the +7.5 to +9.5 points range. Grab the points, expect an excting contest.

This is a 10* COACHES CORNER on the Celtics.

The set-up: Memphis plays with revenge here after falling 113-101 to the Warriors in these team's regular season finale. It was a big win for the Warriors at the time, as it ensured that if they lost the first "play in" game, that they'd still have a shot at making the playoffs by hosting the second game and playing the winner of the lower seeds. And that's exactly what's happened here, as Memphis held on for a four-point home victory over the Spurs to set up this rematch.

The pick: Golden State is still hung up on the previous loss to the Lakers, while Memphis is now in the drivers seat after its big win. The Warriors are also injured, while Memphis enters almost completely healthy. Grab the points.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Grizzlies.

The set-up: Here's a great situational play. The Hornets have lost five straight, while the Pacers have split their last ten games. Indiana's top scorer though Malcolm Brogdon is out. Evan Turner is also out for the Pacers and Caris Lavert and Holliday are also questionable. 

The pick: I love this young Hornets team here led by Terry Rozier and LaMelo Ball. Indiana is just too banged up to back here and while I obviously think Charlotte's going to win this one outright, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Hornets.

The set-up: New York has been playing unbelievably well and it's now back in the playoffs. It enters off a highly satisfying 106-100 win over the Clippers, avenging an earlier loss. But with a night off before three straight at home to end the regular season, this absolutely sets up as a look-ahead spot for the visiting side. 

The pick: The Lakers are off a big 123-110 home win over the Suns and with LBJ returning to the line-up tonight, this MEANS a lot to The King and the Lakers overall, who also play with revenge here now after a 111-96 setback in the Big Apple in mid April. Lay the points, expect a blowout.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Lakers.

The set-up: The Pels are in the 11th spot, on the outside looking into the playoffs with just under a week left in the regular season. They're coming off a 112-110 victory at Charlotte just last night. Star player Zion Williamson is done for the season though, and I think the visiting side will feel the effects of his absence here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. 

The pick: The Grizzlies are in eighth and are coming off a big road win against Toronto. Memphis plays with revenge here as well after a humbling 144-113 setback to New Orleans in mid February. The Grizzlies hit the road for three straight as well after this, before one last home game, putting an added emphasis to perform in this almost "must win" scenario. Lay the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Grizzlies.

The set-up: The Raptors need to win out and get some outside help to make the play-in tournament. The Wizards have been steamrolling of late, but off a tight 135-134 loss in Milwaukee just last night, I finally expect Washington to stumble here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Toronto has three more games at home, before three on the road. It's now or never for the Raptors. 

The pick: Washington has a tricky schedule, with a game at Indiana up next, followed by two at Atlanta, before then wrapping up with two at home vs. Cleveland and Charlotte. The Wizards though are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine when playing the second game of a back-to-back and off an ATS victory in the first. Everything points to Toronto finding a way to get the job done for bettors tonight.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Raptors.

The set-up: Both teams need wins. Both teams have been playing really well of late. At some point, one of these two teams is going to have a minor "letdown," and I believe that time has come for the Bucks, who enter off back-to-back home wins over East leading Brooklyn, including a hard-fought 124-118 victory just last night. 

The pick: Washington most recently hammered the Pacers 154-141 in regulation at home two nights ago and it plays with the added incentive of revenge here after falling 133-122 to the Bucks on March 15th. With a game tomorrow night at Toronto, the road ahead doesn't get any easier for the visiting side either. I expect this one to come right down to the wire, so grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Wizards.

The set-up: The Clippers have lost three straight games. They've lost four straight against the spread. They haven't faced the Raptors yet this year, but with the Lakers and Knicks up next, I expect the home side to lay the foot on the gas from start to finish in this one. Note as well that the Clippers are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after three or more straight ATS/SU losses in a row. 

The pick: After three straight losses, the Raptors got a huge game from Kyle Lowry to beat the Lakers 121-114 here two nights ago. With a game at home vs. Washington up next though, this sets up not only as a letdown spot after beating the Champs, but also a "look ahead" spot as well. That = trap. Look for the hungry and focussed home side to take advantage. 

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Clippers.

The set-up: I think the Bulls catch the 76ers at the right time here. Clearly, if we just went by each team's offensive and defensive seasonal averages, then we'd be taking Philadelphia 9 times out of 10, but in this case, Philly is off a hard-fought 113-111 OT win just last night in San Antonio, and several of its starters will be rested here, or see very limited time. Philly has a night off after this before a game at Houston, so the temptation to get caught "looking ahead" is there as well. 

The pick: Despite who is or isn't playing for Chicago today, the Bulls have performed well for bettors in this spot by going 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge a SU/ATS road loss in which they allowed 125 or more points in (lost 127-105 on March 11th.) Chicago has lost three straight. It has two whole nights off after this before a game at Charlotte. I say the Bulls come to play tonight. No outright, but a nail-biter until the end. Grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Bulls.

The set-up: The Mavericks lost outright to the Kings last week, but they had to hold on for dear life in last night's 125-124 home win over the Wizards and as such, I believe fatigue will be a major factor for the home side here. The Kings are playing their most inspired ball of the season right now and have to be feeling confident after beating The Kings and the Lakers 110-106 last time out. 

The pick: Dallas has a night off before a game vs. the Heat, followed by a home game vs. the Nets. Not only is this a classic letdown spot, but it's also a "look ahead." When you put those two situational "spot wagers" together, that = "trap." Outright? It's possible, but in the end let's grab up all those points!

This is a 10* UNDERDOG BEST OF THE BEST on the Kings.

The set-up: As primarily a "situational" handicapper, I love the way this one sets up for the home side. Amazingly, the Wizards are on the cusp of a playoff spot, sitting just one game back of the No. 8 spot. They still have three weeks left in the regular season, but off a 122-93 road win at Cleveland just last night, I'm finally expecting a letdown here. Besides, the Wizards have a night off after this before a home game vs. the Pacers, a team which sits a .5 game back of them for that final playoff spot. In fact note, this is the Wizards very final game vs. a Western Conferenece team, putting added incentive over its final eight games after tonight. 

The pick: I think the Mavericks keep the foot on the gas. They're in a tight race now with the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th placed teams in the West. Dallas is off the 115-105 win over the Pistons, and they have the Kings coming to town tomorrow night. No need to look past this dangerous Wizards side tonight. I look for Washington to finally have a letdown here. Lay the points.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Mavericks.

The set-up: I think the Nets rest players here strategically vs. this Western Conference opponent. Brooklyn is off a 130-113 win over Indiana just last night, but with a night off after this before a tough five-game road swing to end the season, starting with back-to-back games at Milwaukee, this absolutely sets up as a classic "trap" for the home side. 

The pick: Portland plays with revenge here after falling 116-112 at home to the Nets on March 23rd. Portland smashed Memphis 130-109 in its last outing, and with tough upcoming games at Boston and Atlanta, it's now or never for this playoff hopeful Portland side. A great situational call on the visiting side here.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Blazers.

The set-up: No need to overthink this one. Dallas has the best player on the floor in Luka Doncic, but the Mavericks played and lost in Sacramento just last night. They're also playing without Kristaps Porzingis. 

The pick: The Warriors are off a 117-113 win over the Kings, and they play with revenge here after falling 134-132 to the Mavericks in early February. It's a perfect storm of situational factors working in favor of the hungry home side tonight.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Warriors.

The set-up: The Thunder have lost 16 of 17, including a 129-109 home loss to the Wizards. OKC has officially thrown in the towel on the season, but after six straight non ATS covers in a row, I like Philly to take advantage here and to pull away down the stretch for a comfortable cover. 

The pick: In fact, the 76ers have lost four straight SU as well, including a blowout 132-94 loss at Milwaukee on Saturday. Whether Simmons or Embiid play or not, I love the rest of the role players and Tobias Harris to step up here and deliver with a sizeable victory. Lay the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the 76ers.

The set-up: I expect the Cavaliers to comfortably sneak in through the backdoor down the stretch. Cleveland is coming off a 108-102 road loss in Charlotte. With a game tomorrow night at playoff hopeful Toronto, I believe Cleveland will give everything it has tonight to try and pull off a victory. Washington has been playing fantastic, but after winning six of its last seven, including two in a row, and with San Antonio coming to town tomorrow night, followed by the Lakers, this absolutely sets up as a classic "look-ahead" trap for the home side as well.

The pick: Finally note that Washington is a poor 3-7 ATS in its last ten after scoring 125 or more points in a SU/ATS road victory in its last outing (won 129-109 at OKC.) No outright, but much closer than what this spread would suggest. Grab the points.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE SHOCKER on the Cavaliers.

The set-up: The Mavericks come in off a 127-117 win over Detroit here jsut last night. They won, but they didn't cover. The Mavericks have dropped six straight ATS, but I expect that trend to end here, as I expect Luka Doncic and company to bring their "A" game with Anthony Davis and the LA Lakers coming to town. Working in a starter that returns from injury doesn't always go smoothly, so honestly it's hard to predict exactly what we'll get out of LA this evening. 

The pick: The Mavericks play with revenge here as well after falling 138-115 to LA on X-Mas Day. Despite having played just last night, I like the Mavs here, as I just can't trust all of the uncertainty right now involving LA's line-up. Dallas didn't expend a lot of energy in last night's win and fatigue isn't going to be an issue. I'm laying the points, but expecting a decisive win.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION on the Dallas Mavericks.