SUNS @ PISTONS NBA AFTERNOON ANNIHILATOR

The Phoenix Suns are just 4-14 SU on the season, but they picked up a 116-114 win at Milwaukee on Friday and I think they'll give the Pistons a fair fight here at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday. One could argue that this is a letdown spot for Phoenix, but the same thing can be said about Detroit which is coming off a physically and mentally exhausting 116-111 OT win against the Rockets. We can also note that the Pistons more often than not seem to be overrated by the bookies when hosting lesser teams, going 6-13 ATS in their last 19 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Suns are 6-1 ATS in their last seven Sunday games. Pistons are 1-8 ATS in their last nine Sunday games.

8* play on Phoenix Suns. 

TOP RATED 10* NBA BOOKIE BREAKER

The Nuggets are off a 25-point win over Orlando Friday night, but the Nuggets as well as the Thunder are teams generally much stronger at home than on the road. 

Before winning their last two games, the Nuggets lost six of seven games and here they'll face an OKC team which has played well lately, winning five of its last six and beating Golden State by 28 points. Both teams will be playing on no rest which I think gives the home team a solid advantage. We can also note that the visitors may be shorthanded as starting shooting guard Gary Harris left Friday's contest with a sore left ankle.

10* play on OKC Thunder. 

LATE NIGHT NBA TOTAL (10* TOP PLAY)

The Golden State Warriors are in free fall, coming off four straight defeats as they're battling injuries to Draymond Green and Stephen Curry. The former might be back here while the latter is expected to miss several more games. Four of their last five games when playing without Curry have gone under the total, and that's a pattern I expect to continue here. 

This will be the finale of a tough six-game road trip for the Blazers and I think they'll make sure to up the intensity on the defensive end after giving up 143 points at Milwaukee last time out. 

Under is 4-0 in Trail Blazers last four games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. Under is 19-6-1 in Warriors last 26 games following a straight up loss.

10* play on UNDER. 

PELICANS @ KNICKS BUCKET BREAKER

The New York Knicks snapped a six-game skid with a huge 117-109 triumph as a 22-point underdog at Boston last time out. I think that puts them in a huge letdown spot here, facing a Pelicans team which will be looking to get back to its winning ways after having a three-game win streak come to an end with a narrow loss at Philadelphia Wednesday night. 

The Pels are just 2-7 SU on the road this season but 13-3 ATS in their last 16 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. With the Knicks just 2-6 at home I expect the visitors to roll to an easy victory here. 

8* play on New Orleans Pelicans. 

ROCKETS @ PISTONS HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Houston Rockets have turned things around after a rocky start to the season. They travel to Detroit riding a five-game win streak and had covered the spread in four straight games before beating the Pistons by only two as a nine-point favorite in the opener of this home-and-home set last time out. 

That game ended way closer than it should have been with Detroit allowed to score 41 fourth-quarter points. "We had the game about five times in our hand, and you know we kind of try to give it away," D'Antoni said. "You've got to give them credit, Griffin makes his shots, made some hard shots, but at the same time we had time to put it away a few times and we just (made silly fouls) or just didn't play." 

I expect the Rockets to stay focused and win and cover here, particularly with Detroit only 2-5 ATS home at Little Caesars Arena on the season.

8* play on Houston Rockets. 

NBA BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Dallas Mavericks took a 98-88 loss at Memphis last time out, but they are a solid 6-2 SU at home on the season and a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four at American Airlines Center. They had won four straight contests outright prior to the loss to the Grizzlies and look good to get back to their winning ways against Brooklyn Wednesday night. The Nets are in a letdown spot following a 104-92 win at Miami last night and have failed to cover the spread in each of their last five when playing on no rest. 

10* play on Dallas Mavericks. 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

The Indiana Pacers have held three straight opponents to fewer than 94 points and six of their last nine have gone under the total. Here they'll visit a Charlotte team which has been involved in a fair amount of shootouts lately, but note that under is 8-2 in Hornets last 10 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Indiana fits the bill with a 5-3 SU record on the road and I expect this game to stay under the total. 

8* play on UNDER. 

NETS @ HEAT TUESDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

The Miami Heat have failed to break 100 points in each of their last two games. It had however seen seven of its last eight go over the total prior to the recent funk and picked up a 120-107 road win over the Nets on Nov. 14. This looks like a good spot for the Heat to find their scoring touch again as they'll face a Brooklyn side which has lost four of its last five and allowed more than 120 ppg on average in each defeat. 

Both teams rank in the top half of the table when it comes to making three-pointers and Miami is third worst in the league at defending the three. I expect to see both teams make a high percentage of their attempts outside the perimeter to push this game over the total. 

8* play on OVER. 

MONDAY NIGHT NBA MONEYLINE MASSACRE

The Boston Celtics won their first two games of a three-game homestand but closed it out with a 98-86 loss to Utah on Saturday. That game was the day after a draining OT win over Toronto though, so not all that surprising that they came out flat. I expect Boston to get back to its winning ways when visiting Charlotte Monday night, supported by a trend saying they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

The Hornets have dropped three of their last four, losing the last two games outright as favorites.

The Celtics have covered the spread in six straight matchups at Charlotte and in 12 of the last 16 meetings overall. 

8* play on Boston Celtics. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA) TOTAL

The Indiana Pacers have won back-to-back games despite not breaking 100 points scored in either contest. They're allowing just 101.4 ppg on the season which drops to 97.1 ppg home at Bankers Life Fieldhouse where the O/U is 1-7 for the season. 

Tonight the Pacers will host a Utah team which has not played with its usual intensity on the defensive end of the court lately, but it showed what it's capable of when holding Boston to 86 points on 38.5 percent shooting its last time out. 

Under is 10-3 in Jazz last 13 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 18-8 in Pacers last 26 vs. Western Conference. Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Indiana.

10* play on UNDER in Indiana. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA)

The Portland Trail Blazers have opened a six-game road trip with a couple of losses at Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota, but I think they look good to bounce back with a win when visiting the Washington Wizards Sunday night.

The Blazers had scored 100 points or more in each of their first 14 games of the season prior to a 112-96 loss to the Wolves last time out and should be able to take advantage of a Wizards side which allows 116.7 ppg. 

Washington looked like it finally had turned its season around after a 1-7 start to the season as it had recorded three straight victories before taking a 115-104 loss to Brooklyn Friday night. The worry of another losing streak could linger in the Washington players mind here, and I expect the visitors to be fired up to avenge a 125-124 overtime home loss to the Wizards on Oct. 22.

10* play on Portland Trail Blazers. 

SATURDAY NIGHT NBA NO-BRAINER

The Philadelphia 76ers are in a tough spot, playing on no rest following a 113-107 home win over the Utah Jazz on Friday. 76ers are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 road games and 0-4 ATS in their last four games playing on no rest.

The Charlotte Hornets on the other hand have had plenty of rest and time to mull over an embarrassing 113-89 loss to the lowly Cleveland Cavaliers Tuesday night.

Philly has defeated Charlotte in a couple of close games this season so expect to see a fired up home team looking to make up for it with a blowout in this contest. 

8* play on Charlotte Hornets. 

BLAZERS @ WOLVES PLAY OF THE DAY (10* TOP PLAY)

The Portland Trail Blazers had won four straight before taking a 126-117 loss to the Lakers in La La Land. I like the Blazers to bounce back with a big performance here at Northwest Division rivals Minnesota Timberwolves Friday night. 

The Wolves have won back-to-back games since shipping Jimmy Butler to Philaelphia for Robert Covington and Dario Saric, but it's a big difference to beat up on Brooklyn and New Orleans compared to taking on this solid Portland side.  

We can also note that this is just their second winning streak of the season, and the Wolves are 0-4 ATS in their last four Friday games while the Trail Blazers are 4-1 ATS in their last five Friday games.

10* play on Portland Trail Blazers. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Washington Wizards have found their groove and enter this matchup riding a three-game winning streak SU and ATS, the most recent a 24-point rout of Cleveland. They've averaged 117.3 points during the streak and here they'll face a Brooklyn team which took a 120-107 home loss to the Heat on Wednesday to go to 0-3 SU and ATS last three. We can also note that the visitors will be without their leading scorer, guard Caris LeVert who is out indefinitely with a dislocated right foot and that the Nets are 3-12 ATS in the last 15 meetings in Washington.

Over is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings and I expect Washington to score plenty here to push this game over the total. 

8* play on Washington Wizards. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Washington Wizards have found their groove and enter this matchup riding a three-game winning streak SU and ATS, the most recent a 24-point rout of Cleveland. They've averaged 117.3 points during the streak and here they'll face a Brooklyn team which took a 120-107 home loss to the Heat on Wednesday to go to 0-3 SU and ATS last three. We can also note that the visitors will be without their leading scorer, guard Caris LeVert who is out indefinitely with a dislocated right foot and that the Nets are 3-12 ATS in the last 15 meetings in Washington.

Over is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings and I expect Washington to score plenty here to push this game over the total. 

8* play on OVER.

NBA BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The San Antonio Spurs took a 116-96 beating by the struggling Phoenix Suns Wednesday night.

I think they're in a very tough spot when visiting the Clippers on no rest with this being their third game in four nights.

Spurs are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games playing on no rest and 3-12 ATS in their last 15 road games. We can also note that center Pau Gasol is expected to miss his fifth consecutive gamw with a foot injury. 

The Clippers on the other hand have won four of their past five games with the last two impressive wins over Milwaukee and Golden State.

They've covered the spread in six straight home at Staples Center and the home team is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 matchups with the Spurs. 

10* play on LA Clippers. 

NBA 3-PACK

The San Antonio Spurs have dropped three of their last four but look primed to bounce back from a five-point loss in Sacramento when visiting Phoenix Wednesday night. 

Everyone is beating up on the Suns who took a 118-101 loss to a Thunder team which was without its superstar Russell Westbrook their last time out. They've been outscored by an average of 16.5 points during a four-game skid and have won only two of their seven home games, one since beating Dallas in the season opener.

The Spurs are averaging 108.7 ppg on the season and the Suns are 1-6 ATS versus teams scoring 106+ points/game. 

8* play on San Antonio Spurs. 

10* NBA TOP PLAY

The Boston Celtics have lost four of their last five and shot only 38.7 percent from the field in a 100-94 loss at Portland their last time out.

Under is 6-2 in Celtics last eight games following a straight up loss and I think we'll see a low-scoring game when they host the Chicago Bulls Wednesday night.

Chicago has been held to 99 points or fewer in four of its last five games, the lone exception an OT win at New York.

Under is 6-1 in Bulls last seven overall.

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Philadelphia 76ers have won two of their last three on the road and defeated the Heat 124-114 in Miami Monday night. Here they'll visit the Magic who have played surprisingly well lately winning four of their last six, but they took a 117-109 loss at Washington on Monday.

The 76ers are expected to give newly acquired Jimmy Butler his debut here, and I think Philly will be extra fired up for this contest. We can also note that 76ers are 6-1 ATS in the last six meetings in Orlando.

8* play on Philadelphia 76ers. 

HORNETS @ CAVS HARDWOOD HAMMER

On Nov. 3, the Charlotte Hornets snapped a nine-game losing streak in the series with a 126-94 rout. I think they'll pick up another easy victory when paying a visit to the worst team in the NBA Tuesday night. 

Charlotte has won three of its last four games and the offense is clicking, which is bad news for a Cleveland side which is allowing 113.1 ppg. Hornets have also been stingy on the defensive end by allowing a season-low 36.5 percent shooting in Sunday's 113-103 win at Detroit. 

The Cavs are banged up and have a matchup with the Wizards tomorrow while Charlotte will get a nice break before taking on Philadelphia on Saturday. 

Hornets are 7-2 ATS in their last nine road games while the Cavaliers are 19-42-1 ATS in their last 62 home games.

8* play on Charlotte Hornets. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Golden State Warriors have covered the spread in five of their last six games, the exception a 134-111 home loss to Milwaukee on Nov 8. They bounced back with a 16-point victory over Brooklyn on Saturday and look good to claim another victory when visiting the LA Clippers Monday night. 

The Clippers are in a letdown spot following an OT victory as an underdog against the Bucks and they're just 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games following a ATS win.

Golden state All Star point guard Stephen Curry has missed the last two games with a groin injury, but the Warriors have decent depth and Quinn Cook stepped up with 27 points on 11-of-16 shooting against the Nets. We can also note that the road team is 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings.

8* play on Golden State Warriors. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Memphis Grizzlies are in a letdown spot following a 112-106 overtime win against Philadelphia on Saturday. Here they'll face a Utah team back in business again, coming off triumphs over Dallas and Boston following an ugly four-game losing streak. Memphis has beaten Utah twice this season, so I expect to see a focused Jazz team tonight. 

8* play on Utah Jazz. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Phoenix Suns look like a great underdog at Oklahoma City Monday night.

The Thunder have been without star Russell Westbrook in the last three games due to an ankle injury, and he's unlikely to be back for this matchup. There's not much to like about the visitors; Phoenix has lost three straight games and ranks dead last in the NBA in offensive rating, but this is simply too many points for Thunder to be asked to cover without Westbrook. 

8* play on Phoenix Suns. 

MONDAY NIGHT CBB BOOKIE BREAKER

The Oklahoma Sooners opened the season with a 91-76 triumph over Texas Rio Grande Valley Friday night, and I think they'll close out this road trip through Texas with another victory here on Monday. 

Texas-San Antonio took a 77-76 loss to Division II program St. Edwards as a 16.5-point favorite on Wednesday, despite battling back from a rather big deficit to take the lead with only 14 seconds to go. 

The Roadrunners are 1-4 ATS in their last five vs. Big 12 teams and I expect Oklahoma to be too much to handle in this matchup.

8* play on Oklahoma Sooners. 

BUCKS @ NUGGETS BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

I really like the Denver Nuggets to come through with a big win as they host Milwaukee Sunday night. Playing in the high altitude at Pepsi Center is always a tough ask for the visitors, and that is particularly true here with the Bucks playing on no rest off a 128-126 OT loss to the Clippers in LA on Saturday. 

Bucks are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games while the Nuggets are 6-2 ATS in their last eight home games, and Denver should be very motivated after a pair of disappointing losses to Memphis and Brooklyn. 

Denver has won eight straight meetings at home and covered the spread in three of the last four meetings overall. 

10* play on Denver Nuggets. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA SIDE)

The Houston Rockets opened a five-game road trip with three straight triumphs before coming out flat in a 98-80 loss at Oklahoma City Thursday night.

I think they might've been guilty of looking past the Thunder with all focus on this Lone Star State rivalry matchup with San Antonio, and I like the Rockets to close out the trek with a win.

The Spurs are coming off back-to-back defeats (0-2 ATS) and coach Gregg Popovich called out his team as soft after a 95-88 loss to the Miami Heat on Wednesday. Spurs could come out firing after a comment like that, or they could take it the completely wrong way ...

We can also note that Rockets are 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings at AT&T Center.

10* play on Houston Rockets. 

WIZARDS @ MAGIC HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Washington Wizards could easily be branded the biggest disappointment of the early NBA season, entering Friday with the Eastern Conference's second-worst record after taking a 119-100 loss to the Mavericks Tuesday night. They'll be well rested for this contest though, playing on two days rest, and I expect to see a focused and angry Wizards team ready to turn things around.

"I thought we played real cool in the first half, (against Dallas)" Wizards guard Austin Rivers told ESPN.com. "Cool gets you L's. There's nothing cool about losing. Maybe we thought, 'Oh, we won finally (against the Knicks on Sunday). It's just going to click for us now because we're talented.' Like, it's hard to get wins in the NBA. It's hard. Unless you're the (expletive) Warriors. For everybody else, it's hard. You've got to compete every night." 

The Magic meanwhile are off to a 4-7 start but failed to make it three wins in a row as they took a 103-94 home loss to Detroit Wednesday. Orlando ranks last in the league in scoring offense and I don't think the Magic will be able to keep up with the Wizards talented offense. 

Washington won three of four meetings last season by averaging 123.3 points in its three wins. Road team is 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings.

8* play on Washington Wizards. 

THURSDAY NIGHT BUCKS @ WARRIORS MIDNIGHT MASSACRE

The Milwaukee Bucks own the 4th best record in the league, but I don't think they'll stand a chance when visiting the reigning NBA champions Thursday night. 

The Warriors are 6-0 (5-1 ATS) home at Oracle Arena while Milwaukee is just 2-2 SU (1-3 ATS) on the road.

The Bucks have dropped two of their last three and allowed the Blazers to shoot 52.7 percent in a 118-103 loss at Portland on Tuesday. The Warriors have been tearing opponents apart since their lone loss of the season and have scored 116 or more points in all eight games of their winning streak. 

I expect a relatively easy win for the home team in this nationally televised affair.

8* play on Golden State Warriors. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA TOTAL)

The LA Clippers have scored 120 points in back-to-back victories and 110 points or more in six straight games. Here they'll face a Portland team off a 118-103 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday and the Blazers are averaging a healthy 120.6 ppg home at Moda Center on the season. 

With both teams in the top 5 for offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions) I have no doubt this will be a high-scoring affair. 

10* play on LAC @ POR OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

This looks like a great spot to back the Utah Jazz to pick up their first home win of the season.  

The visiting Dallas Mavericks are in a massive let down spot after ending a six-game losing streak by routing Washington Tuesday night. The Jazz on the other hand should be extremely motivated to make up for a double-digit home loss to Toronto Monday night. 

Dallas is the most recent team to lose to the Jazz and the Mavs are 0-5 on the road this season. 

8* play on Utah Jazz. 

NBA 3-PACK

The New York Knicks have won just one road games on the season, but I think they'll double that tally when visiting Atlanta Wednesday night. 

The Hawks dropped a 113-102 decision to Charlotte on Tuesday, have covered the spread in only one of their last six in the second leg of a back-to-back and have lost five of their last six overall. 

The Knicks posted a 126-107 victory over Atlanta at Madison Square Garden in the season opener and they're 14-6 ATS in the last 20 meetings in Atlanta.

8* play on NY Knicks. 

TOP RATED 10* NBA PLAY

I think this looks like a good spot for the San Antonio Spurs to bounce back from a 117-110 home loss to Orlando on Sunday. They've dominated this series in recent seasons covering the spread in 10 of the last 11 meetings and they'll face a Miami team in a let down spot after defeating the Pistons 120-115 in overtime Monday night. Miami star Hassan Whiteside, who ranks second in the NBA in rebounding and blocked shots missed that game with an injured right knee and is questionable for this matchup.

Spurs are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a ATS loss. Heat are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up win and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 home games.

10* play on San Antonio Spurs. 

BUCKS @ BLAZERS BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Milwaukee Bucks have already matched the best nine-game start in franchise history by winning eight of their first nine games. I think they look good to improve on that record when visiting Portland Tuesday night. 

The Blazers have won four of their last five and recorded an 111-81 win over Minnesota Sunday night, but this is a bad spot for the home team. Note that this will be the Blazers third game in four nights and that they're just 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

The red hot Bucks are coming off a 144-point performance against Sacramento on Sunday and they should be well rested since that was their first game since Nov 1. The Bucks have covered the spread in six of the last seven matchups at Moda Center.

10* play on Milwaukee Bucks. 

CELTICS @ NUGGETS HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Denver Nuggets have lost just one game all season and defeated a tough Utah team 103-88 on Saturday. They must feel pretty good about themselves and are a perfect 5-0 SU (4-1 ATS) home at Pepsi Center. 

The Boston Celtics on the other hand are off a deflating 102-101 loss at Indiana on Saturday as a missed layup by Kyrie Irving opened the door for Pacers guard guard Victor Oladipo to hit the winning 3-pointer with 3.4 seconds left. Celtics are just 1-7 ATS in their last eight road games vs. a team with a winning home record and I expect the home team to roll over the visitors in this matchup. 

8* play on Denver Nuggets. 

MONDAY NIGHT ROCKETS @ PACERS BEST BET (10* TOP PLAY)

The Houston Rockets aim for a third straight win Monday night and have seemingly righted the ship following a 1-5 start to the season. They've still only covered the spread in one of their last six games though, and the Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse is just a different kind of animal compared to beating up on Chicago and Brooklyn. 

Indiana is 3-1 ATS and SU at home on the season with the lone home loss coming to Portland on Oct. 29. They've reeled off three straight triumphs since, including an impressive 102-101 upset win over Boston Saturday night as guard Victor Oladipo hit a 3-pointer with 3.4 seconds left. "His confidence level is at a really high point and he's just amazing," Domantas Sabonis said about his teammate. "Last year he did it many times and this year he keeps getting better and better."

Pacers are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 Monday games and 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Indiana.

10* play on Indiana Pacers. 

NBA HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Memphis Grizzlies have won five of their last six (both straight up/against the spread) and have already shown they can get it done on the road having won twice in Utah.

The confidence is high in the Grizzlies camp and they're having fun together: "Once you make shots everything gets easier," Memphis center Marc Gasol told reporters. "Being unselfish, exploiting the pick-and-roll, mixing the rolls with pops. ... I like the mindset of the guys. I like the problem-solving mindset we have now, and guys want to continue to get better." 

Here the Grizzlies will visit a Phoenix Suns team which has lost seven straight since a season opening win over Dallas. I can't find a reason why we shouldn't back the red hot and road team in this matchup. 

8* play on Memphis Grizzlies. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA TOTAL)

The Philadelphia 76ers have yet to win on the road this season, and while I'm not confident in them covering the spread when playing on rest here at Brooklyn Sunday night I don't think scoring points will be an issue. The 76ers will be facing a Nets side which has lost five straight and allowed 115 points or more in all those contests with all but one of those going over the total.

Philly has struggled defensively away from home giving up 122.5 ppg, and for all the Nets woes they've actually scored 111 points or more in four of their last five. 

Over is 6-0 in 76ers last six games playing on no rest and 6-1 in their last seven road games.

10* G.O.W on OVER. 

LATE NIGHT NBA BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Golden State Warriors have been red hot since their lone loss of the season (100-98 at Denver) and have covered the spread in five of six victories since. 

They're in a good scheduling spot here, playing on a days rest since beating the Pels by 10 points and they'll have the weekend off before taking on Memphis Monday night.

I think we'll see a focused Warriors team coming to play and the visitors could certainly have asked for an easier opener to a five-game road trip. 

The Wolves defeated Utah 128-15 Wednesday night but are 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

10* play on Golden State Warriors.

ROCKETS @ NETS TGIF TOTAL

I think we'll see a wide open high-scoring game when the Brooklyn Nets host the Houston Rockets Friday night. 

Houston has been held to fewer than 100 points in two of its last three contests and James Harden might miss his third straight game with a hamstring injury, but buckets should still come fairly easy against a Brooklyn side which has allowed 115+ in four straight games. 

Defensively Houston ranks in the bottom third of the league giving up 116.3 ppg and the Nets have averaged 113.7 ppg through its three games home at Barclays Center. 

8* play on OVER. 

BUCKS @ CELTICS BUCKET BREAKER

The Milwaukee Bucks are the lone undefeated team this season following an impressive 124-109 triumph over Toronto. I think the spread is pretty spot on for this contest, but the total is set too high IMO. 

Sure, scoring is way up in the NBA this season and Milwaukee has scored at least 113 points in all its games, but Boston owns the best defense in the league allowing just 97.6 ppg.

The Celtics gave up 105 in a win against Detroit Tuesday night but under is 5-0 in their last five after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. 

We can also note that Bucks' superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo who averaged 25 points, 14.2 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game in the Bucks' first six games this season is in the concussion protocol and remains questionable for this game. 

8* play on UNDER. 

EAST VS. WEST NBA BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Sacramento Kings have been a positive surprise here at the start of the season, travelling to Atlanta with a 6-2 ATS record and aiming for a fifth consecutive straight up victory. 

The Hawks on the other hand have dropped three straight games, including a 136-114 loss to Cleveland on Tuesday. They've been turning the ball over an average of 18.1 times per game for the second worst mark in the league while Sacramento ranks No. 5 for forced turnovers (16.6). 

Two young and inexperienced teams guaranteed to have their ups and downs throughout the season, but for this matchup I'm well happy to back the red hot Kings. 

Hawks are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six vs. Western Conference. Kings are 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 vs. Eastern Conference.

10* play on Sacramento Kings. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA SIDE)

The Utah Jazz will close out a four-game road swing with a matchup with the Timberwolves at Minnesota Wednesday night.

They've breezed past Houston, New Orleans and Orlando in the first three games of the trek and will be fairly rested here playing on two days rest, so I'm pretty confident they'll show up for this contest, particularly as the Jazz are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings in Minnesota.

We can also note that the Jazz have been lighting up the scoreboard lately, and here they'll face a Wolves team which has allowed 120+ points in each of its last two games. 

Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last six road games and 5-1 ATS in their last six games playing on 2 days rest. Timberwolves are 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games playing on one days rest and 2-7 ATS in their last nine home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

10* play on Utah Jazz. 

NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY (10* TOP PLAY)

The Oklahoma City Thunder recorded their first win of the season with a  117-110 home triumph over the Suns on Sunday. Russell Westbrook missed the first two games of the season following knee surgery but led the team with 23 points, nine rebounds and seven assists against Phoenix. The LA Clippers are off a 136-104 win over the Washington Wizards and have now scored 130+ points in two straight games. The Clippers beat the Westbrook-less Thunder 108-92 on Oct. 19, but I think we'll see a closer game with a higher score here with the OKC superstar back in the mix. 

Over is 5-1 in Clippers last six games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game. Over is 7-1 in the last eight meetings in Oklahoma City.

10* play on OVER. 

KINGS @ MAGIC HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Sacramento Kings will play on no rest following an upset win at Miami Monday night, although they don't have to worry about heavy travel for this matchup with the Magic at Orlando. I think this young Kings team will deal with back-to-back games just fine supported by the fact that they're 5-0 ATS in their last five games playing on 0 days rest. The Magic are coming off back-to-back losses, the most recent a 113-91 setback at Milwaukee on Saturday. They're just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games and 5-14 ATS in their last 19 games playing on two days rest. We can also note that the underdog is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.

8* play on Sacramento Kings. 

HEAT @ HORNETS TOTAL

I think we'll see a high-scoring contest when the Charlotte Hornets host the Miami Heat Tuesday night.

The visitors are likely to struggle with the intensity on defense as they'll be playing on no rest following a 123-113 loss to Sacramento on Monday. The Hornets should have a lot of energy and looking to play high tempo basketball following two days rest since a 105-103 setback at Philadelphia on Saturday.

Over is 9-1 in Heat's last 10 games playing on 0 days rest. Over is 18-7-1 in Hornets' last 26 home games.

8* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Chicago Bulls are coming off a 97-85 upset win at Atlanta on Saturday, putting them in a let down spot here when hosting the Golden State Warriors Monday night. 

The Warriors will be playing on no rest but made light work of Brooklyn without exhausting themselves last night. They've now won four in a row since their lone loss (100-98 at Denver on Oct 21) and the previous three were all by at least 20 points.

Trends supporting Golden State: Warriors are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Monday games. Bulls are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 Monday games.

With the under 10-4 in the last 14 meetings at United Center I also recommend a play on this game to go under the total.

8* play on Golden State Warriors. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Chicago Bulls are coming off a 97-85 upset win at Atlanta on Saturday, putting them in a let down spot here when hosting the Golden State Warriors Monday night. 

The Warriors will be playing on no rest but made light work of Brooklyn without exhausting themselves last night. They've now won four in a row since their lone loss (100-98 at Denver on Oct 21) and the previous three were all by at least 20 points.

Trends supporting Golden State: Warriors are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Monday games. Bulls are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 Monday games.

With the under 10-4 in the last 14 meetings at United Center I also recommend a play on this game to go under the total.

8* play on UNDER.

NBA 3-PACK

The Indiana Pacers are perfect 2-0 SU and ATS home at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on the season, beating Brooklyn and Memphis by a combined 48 points. Here they'll return home from a 2-1 road trip including wins at San Antonio and Cleveland, and I think the Pacers will prove too much to handle for the Trail Blazers in this matchup. Portland is in the middle of a four-game road trip and took a 120-11 loss at Miami on Saturday. The Blazers are only 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Pacers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games and 12-3 ATS in their last 15 Monday games.

8* play on Indiana Pacers. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA TOTAL)

The Utah Jazz defeated the Pelicans 132-111 Saturday night. I think we'll see another high-scoring affair involving the Jazz when they visit Dallas Saturday evening. 

The Mavs have been giving up an average of 118.6 points through their first five games and Utah has scored 123 points or more in three of its five games. The Jazz might struggle with fatigue and intensity on the defensive end of the court playing on no rest, giving the Mavs some easy buckets. 

Trends supporting the Over: Over is 12-5 in Jazz last 17 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Over is 5-1 in Mavericks last six vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Over is 5-1 in the last six meetings.

10* play on OVER. 

JAZZ @ PELICANS BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The New Orleans Pelicans remain unbeaten as they came from behind and outscored Brooklyn 9-0 down the stretch to earn a 117-115 victory Friday night. They've been prolific with the ball in their hands but here they'll face a defensively strong Utah team which will come in well rested following a rather comfortable 100-89 triumph over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. 

Jazz are 6-1-1 ATS in the last eight meetings overall and 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings at Smoothie King Center. 

10* play on Utah Jazz.

FRIDAY NIGHT NBA MONEYLINE MASSACRE

The Milwaukee Bucks have opened the season with four straight wins and look good to make it five in a row when they visit Minnesota Friday night. The Timberwolves are 2-3 following a 112-105 loss at Toronto last time out. The Bucks have dominated this series in recent seasons, winning six of the past eight meetings and covering the spread in seven of the last nine, and that's a trend likely to continue. 

8* play on Milwaukee Bucks. 

FRIDAY NIGHT NETS @ PELICANS BANKROLL BUILDER

This looks like a good spot to fade the New Orleans Pelicans who have started the season a perfect 3-0 despite allowing an average of 116.7 ppg. They're been shooting 51.7 percent from the field which is simply unsustainable, and I would not be surprised to see them come out flat here against a Brooklyn side which must feel pretty good about itself following a 102-86 triumph at Cleveland Wednesday night. Nets are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games following a straight up win of more than 10 points and 9-3 ATS in their last 12 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

8* play on Brooklyn Nets. 

THURSDAY NIGHT HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Cleveland Cavaliers will be playing on no rest following a 102-86 home loss to Brooklyn yesterday. They've yet to win a game since King James left and have failed to cover the spread in two straight games.

Here the Cavs will face a Detroit Pistons team off four straight wins and the offense has really been clicking this season, averaging 118 ppg. I think they'll win big against the Cavs who have been terrible on defense, are low on confidence and here also fatigued. 

Trends supporting Detroit: Pistons are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Pistons are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 home games. Cavaliers are 15-41-2 ATS in their last 58 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

8* play on Detroit Pistons. 

LATE LAKERS @ SUNS MIDNIGHT MASSACRE

The LA Lakers are still searching for their first win both SU and ATS since LeBron James joined the team. They've had a tough schedule though, facing Portland, Houston and most recently San Antonio and I think they're ready to go off and get the W at Phoenix Wednesday night. 

The Suns have lost by 20+ points in both their last two games, at Denver and Golden State, but they're not covering the spread often at home either going 4-10 ATS in their last 14 home games. 

LeBron will be angry after missing the game's last shot in Monday's frustrating 143-142 overtime loss to the San Antonio Spurs, and I don't see this young Phoenix team having an answer to King James. 

8* play on LA Lakers. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA)

The San Antonio Spurs have plenty momentum as they're coming off a dramatic OT win at LA Lakers and aim for a third win in four games when they host the Indiana Pacers Wednesday night. 

The Pacers have split their first two games of the season, winning both at home while losing a pair on the road (0-2 ATS). They shot just 39.6 percent from the field in a 109-101 loss at Minnesota Monday night, and here they'll face a defensively strong Spurs team which is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 home games.

We also have a strong revenge angle favoring the home team as the Pacers swept two games from the Spurs last season.

10* play on San Antonio Spurs.  

TUESDAY NIGHT BASKET BRAWLER (10* TOP PLAY)

The New Orleans Pelicans host the LA Clippers Tuesday night. They went 3-1 against the Clippers last season and have covered the spread in 15 of the last 20 meetings as a home team. 

The Pels have opened the season 2-0 and pretty much scoring at will after putting up 131 against Houston in the season opener followed by a 149-129 rout of Sacramento. 

The Pelicans are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games following a straight up win of more than 10 points and I think points will come fast and easy against this Clippers side which defeated Houston 115-112 Sunday but is only 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games following a straight up win.

10* play on New Orleans Pelicans. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The over/under is 27-12 in the NBA so far this season, and I think we'll see another game fly over the total when the Charlotte Hornets visit the Toronto Raptors Monday night. 

Charlotte has scored at least 113 points in each of its first three games of the season with a 115.0 ppg average. Kemba Walker is 19-of-38 from behind the arc so far in 2018-19 and scored a total of 39 points a 113-112 win at Miami on Saturday. 

Toronto is off to a perfect 3-0 start and has averaged 115.3 ppg. Kawhi Leonard has averaged 27.5 points and 11 rebounds in two games and should be well rested here after sitting out Saturday's 117-113 win at Washington. 

Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

The Hornets have covered the spread in all their games this season and won outright as an underdog their last time out. Charlotte is 14-5 ATS in the last 19 meetings in Toronto and should be able to keep this a relatively close game.

8* play on Charlotte Hornets+. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA) - MIKE'S TOP RATED *BEST BET* TOTAL

The over/under is 27-12 in the NBA so far this season, and I think we'll see another game fly over the total when the Charlotte Hornets visit the Toronto Raptors Monday night. 

Charlotte has scored at least 113 points in each of its first three games of the season with a 115.0 ppg average. Kemba Walker is 19-of-38 from behind the arc so far in 2018-19 and scored a total of 39 points a 113-112 win over Miami on Saturday. 

Toronto is off to a perfect 3-0 start and has averaged 115.3 ppg. Kawhi Leonard has averaged 27.5 points and 11 rebounds in two games and should be well rested here after sitting out Saturday's 117-113 win at Washington. 

Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

10* play on OVER. 

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY (TOP RATED 10*)

The Golden State Warriors have opened their title-defending campaign with a pair of wins, but got a real scare at Utah Friday night, winning only thanks to a tip-in at the buzzer. The Jazz were hitting 3-pointers at an amazing rate but were still unable to beat Golden State, which says a lot about this team.

Here the Warriors will take on a Denver Nuggets side playing on back-to-back nights following a matchup with Phoenix Saturday night.

Playing on no rest is never easy, particularly not in the Mile High City; Nuggets are 2-13 SU and ATS playing on no rest at home since the beginning of the 2014 season. 

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED 10* ATS *BEST BET*

The Indiana Pacers opened the season with a 28-point rout over Memphis but couldn't make it two in a row as they took a 118-101 beating at Milwaukee last night. 

I like Indiana to bounce back here against a Brooklyn side which is coming off a tight 107-105 win over the Knicks Friday night. Both teams will be playing on no rest, but this is a particularly tough spot for the the visitors who will play their third game in four nights. 

Indiana swept last season’s series and has won seven straight meetings between the teams while covering the spread in six of those games.

10* play on Indiana Pacers. 

WARRIORS @ JAZZ MIDNIGHT MASSACRE

The defending NBA champions Golden State Warriors opened the season with a 108-100 win against Oklahoma City Thunder. That game went way under the total which closed at 220 points, and I think we'll see another under involving the Warriors when they visit the Utah Jazz Friday night.

Utah held opponents to 99.8 ppg last season but struggled to slow down Sacramento in a 123-117 triumph on Wednesday. I expect the Jazz to play much better defense tonight, fueled by the motivation of putting beating the reigning champs.  

Trends supporting the under: Under is 12-3 in Warriors last 15 overall, 22-7-1 in their last 30 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 10-3 in their last 13 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Under is 6-2 in Jazz last 8 games vs. a team with a winning record.

8* play on UNDER. 

CAVS @ WOLVES HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Minnesota Timberwolves took a 112-108 season-opening loss to the San Antonio Spurs Wednesday night. 

I think they'll get their first W of the season when hosting the Cleveland Cavaliers who are getting used to life after Lebron James, but it's simply impossible to replace a player like King James. This is proven by the fact that Cleveland fell 116-104 to the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday and 14-40-2 ATS in its last 56 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. 

The Cavs are likely in for a very different kind of season than they're used to as they lack leaders, and I'm backing the talented Wolves to cover the spread in this matchup. 

8* play on Minnesota Timberwolves. 

CELTICS @ RAPTORS BOOKIE BREAKER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Boston Celtics impressed with a 105-87 triumph over Philadelphia in Tuesday's season opener. They're one of the favorites to win the East, finally at full strength with Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward both healthy, and I think they'll take it to the Toronto Raptors Friday night.

Toronto owned the conference’s top record last season and is another favorite to claim the conference this year as well. The Raptors opened the season with a 116-104 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday as Kawhi Leonard contributed with 12 rebounds to his 24 points in his team debut. The Celtics have just as much talent plus more depth, so my recommendation is to take the points on the visitors in a game likely to go down to the wire. 

Trends supporting Boston: Celtics are 27-13 ATS in their last 40 games overall and 23-9-1 ATS in their last 33 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. Raptors are 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games following a straight up win.

10* play on Boston Celtics. 

HEAT @ WIZARDS HARDWOOD HAMMER

The Miami Heat opened the season with a 104-101 loss at Orlando Wednesday night. I think they're in for another loss, playing on no rest here at Washington the following evening. 

Washington was forced to battle injuries to key players injuries last season, but five-time All-Star point guard John Wall is fit for fight for the opener and looking forward to bring success to the capital. "I'm the type of guy that wants to have a statue out front," Wall told reporters. "I want to bring a championship here. Those are all the things that I care about. If you're not winning as a group and doing things as a team, then you don't get individual success."

Washington struggled at home last season, but Miami is a bit banged up and could be worn down physically after a dogfight with Orlando last night. The Wizards on the other hand will come into this game well prepared and I'm backing the home team to win and cover the spread.   

8* play on Washington Wizards. 

WOLVES @ SPURS HARDWOOD HAMMER

The San Antonio Spurs were 34-9 SU and 27-15-1 ATS at home last season. They've lost former All-Star Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors but got shooting guard DeMar DeRozan in return. DeRozan seems excited to be playing under coach Gregg Popovich "You definitely want to be around a culture of this magnitude, play with a coach of this status, one of the greatest coaches of all time," DeRozan told reporters. "To be here is definitely a blessing."

The Minnesota Timberwolves have a talented team, but four-time All-Star Jimmy Butler has been disrupting the harmony demanding a trade for quite some time now. The Spurs won 13 of the past 14 meetings straight up, and I think they'll not only win but also cover the spread. 

Trends supporting San Antonio: Spurs are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 home games. Timberwolves are 7-18 ATS in their last 25 road games. Spurs are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings. 

8* play on San Antonio Spurs-. 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT GRIZZLIES @ PACERS BASKET BRAWLER (10* TOP PLAY)

The Indiana Pacers are coming off a 48 win season and finished just two games behind the Cavaliers in the race for the Central Division title. They're led by All-Star guard Victor Oladipo and picked up guard Tyreke Evans (19.4 ppg last season) and sharpshooter Doug McDermott during the offseason. They have a deep bench while Memphis rely too much on the duo of Marc Gasol and Mike Conley.

The Pacers were 17th in the league in scoring last season but sixth in the NBA in shooting at 47.2%. Indiana should should have no trouble to run away with this game against a poor emphis Grizzlies mustered only 22 victories last season. 

Trends supporting Indiana: Pacers are 20-8 ATS in their last 28 games overall. Pacers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 vs. Western Conference. Grizzlies are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 vs. Eastern Conference.

10* play on Indiana Pacers-. 

THUNDER @ WARRIORS BASKET BRAWLER (10* TOP PLAY)

Both Oklahoma City Thunder and Golden State Warriors are extremely talented with the ball in their hands and play high-paced basketball, but I think the bookmakers have set the total too high for this contest. 

OKC allowed an average of 104.4 ppg last season while Golden State allowed 107.5 ppg and there's a good chance the shooting will be off for several players here in the season opener.  

Trends supporting the under: Under is 11-5 in Thunder last 16 overall. Under is 11-3 in Warriors last 14 overall. Under is 10-1 in the last 11 meetings in Golden State. Under is 13-3 in the last 16 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

76ERS @ CELTICS OPENING NIGHT TNT BUCKET BREAKER

The bookmakers have made the Boston Celtics favorites to win the East this season, but I think they're in for a dogfight when hosting Philadelphia in the season opener. 

The talented 76ers are coming off a stellar campaign and will be looking to avenge a Game 5 loss to the Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Now their young core led by Joel Embiid and reigning rookie of the year Ben Simmons has another preseason under its belt and we can also note that the underdog is 9-4 ATS in the last 13 meetings. 

"I think our future is amazing," Sixers coach Brett Brown said recently. "I see a progressive growth. I think we've got a chance to be good for a decade, I think we have a chance to be good for a long time, and that's what excites me the most."

Boston must still be considered the better team until we're proven otherwise, but I think Philly will keep this close. 

8* play on Philadelphia 76ers+.

5-PACK

The Golden State Warriors are going for the kill here when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. They're clearly the superior team, but also know they can't afford to give the Cavs anything for free. "You never know, crazy things that can happen, turn of events in a series that could take place," Golden State forward Draymond Green told reporters. "So you have the opportunity to close out, you want to do that. So you come in, take full advantage of the opportunity in front of us."

Lebron James has carried the Cavs throughout the playoffs, but there's only so much he can do alone against this Warriors team. 

Under is 10-3 in Warriors last 13 overall. Under is 11-5 in Cavaliers last 16 home games.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ CAVS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Golden State Warriors are going for the kill here when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. They're clearly the superior team, but also know they can't afford to give the Cavs anything for free. "You never know, crazy things that can happen, turn of events in a series that could take place," Golden State forward Draymond Green told reporters. "So you have the opportunity to close out, you want to do that. So you come in, take full advantage of the opportunity in front of us."

Lebron James has carried the Cavs throughout the playoffs, but there's only so much he can do alone against this Warriors team. 

Warriors are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings and has covered three straight in this playoff series after almost losing Game 1. 

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

BONUS PLAY

The Golden State Warriors are just two wins away from their third NBA title in four years after a pair of double-digit wins home in Oakland. 

The Cavs gave GS a scare in Game 1 but still lost by 10 in OT, and the Warriors dominated Game 2 from start to finish to run away with a 122-103 triumph. 

Remember how Cavs defeated Golden State in the 2016 NBA Finals in seven games, coming back from a 3-1 series deficit to avenge their NBA Finals loss from the year before? I'm sure Warriors do, and that's why I expect them to keep pushing the pedal to the metal and not give Cavs any reason to think they can win this series. 

Under is 6-1 in Warriors last 7 road games. Warriors are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

Bonus Play: 8* on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA)

The Golden State Warriors are just two wins away from their third NBA title in four years after a pair of double-digit wins home in Oakland. 

The Cavs gave GS a scare in Game 1 but still lost by 10 in OT, and the Warriors dominated Game 2 from start to finish to run away with a 122-103 triumph. 

Remember how Cavs defeated Golden State in the 2016 NBA Finals in seven games, coming back from a 3-1 series deficit to avenge their NBA Finals loss from the year before? I'm sure Warriors do, and that's why I expect them to keep pushing the pedal to the metal and not give Cavs any reason to think they can win this series. 

Under is 6-1 in Warriors last 7 road games. Warriors are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

10* NBA Game of the Month: Golden State Warriors.

Bonus Play: 8* on UNDER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The Cleveland Cavaliers gave Golden State Warriors a scare in Game 1 of the series, and would probably have won the game in regulation if not for a missed free throw at 107-107 with only seconds left on clock. The Warriors could instead win the game by 10 points in overtime, and I think they'll cruise to a blowout win here while holding the Cavs offense in check. Cleveland superstar LeBron James couldn't have played any better in Game 1 (51 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists), and to still lose after such a performance must be deflating. 

Under is 8-3-2 in the last 13 meetings in Golden State. Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.

8* Bonus Play: Golden State Warriors ATS. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA)

The Cleveland Cavaliers gave Golden State Warriors a scare in Game 1 of the series, and would probably have won the game in regulation if not for a missed free throw at 107-107 with only seconds left on clock. The Warriors could instead win the game by 10 points in overtime, and I think they'll cruise to a blowout win here while holding the Cavs offense in check. Cleveland superstar LeBron James couldn't have played any better in Game 1 (51 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists), and to still lose after such a performance must be deflating. 

Under is 8-3-2 in the last 13 meetings in Golden State. Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.

10* NBA Game of the Week: UNDER. 

8* Bonus Play: Golden State Warriors ATS. 

TOP RATED NBA FINALS GAME 1 *BEST BET* TOTAL

For the fourth year in a row, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors will meet in the NBA Finals. I think we'll see a relatively low-scoring game here in the opener. 

Cleveland was among the worst defensive teams in the NBA during the regular season, but the Cavs have stepped the intensity on defense here in the postseason and held the Celtics to fewer than 100 points in each of the last three games of the Eastern Conference Finals. Kevin Love is in the league’s concussion protocol after colliding with Boston’s Jayson Tatum in Game 6 of that series and will need to complete a series of tests before he's cleared to return. 

The Warriors held the Rockets to fewer than 100 points in each of the last five games of the Western Conference Finals. Primarily known for their offensive capabilities, it's also worth noting that State has held opponents to an average of 100.3 ppg here in the postseason. 

Under is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 road games. Under is 5-0 in Warriors last five overall. Under is 8-2-2 in the last 12 meetings at Oracle Arena.

10* play on UNDER. 

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS GAME 7 *HARDWOOD HAMMER*

The Golden State Warriors held the Houston Rockets to 25 points in the second half of a 115-86 triumph in Game 6. The Rockets didn't just lose the game, but also possibly Chris Paul who is most likely out for this contest with a hamstring strain. Yesterday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals finished with a total of just 166 points, and I would be surprised to see this Game 7 break 200. Five of the first six games of this Western Conference Finals series have gone under the total, and I expect to see two aggressive defenses once again tonight. 

8* play on UNDER. 

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS GAME 7 TOTAL

The Boston Celtics host the Cleveland Cavaliers for Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals Sunday night, and we should see a defensive battle with a spot in the NBA Finals at stake. 

Another reasoning for the under is the fact that the Cavs will be without power forward Kevin Love (concussion). Even though Love has struggled to find his rhythm during the playoffs, he's usually providing a key threat as an open shooter when Lebron James opens up the defense.

Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in TD Garden and 4-2 in the first six games of this playoff series. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED ROCKETS @ WARRIORS TOTAL

Golden State Warriors (113.5) and Houston Rockets (112.4) owned the highest points scored per game average over the regular season. Playoff basketball is a completely different animal though, and both teams have played aggressive defense so far here in the Western Conference Finals, and that will certainly be the case again here in Game 6. 

Note that both of the last two games stayed under 200 points! 

The books have caught on, and this is the lowest total we've seen in a matchup between these two teams for many years, but I'm confident they know what they're doing and are looking to make bank on people just seeing the (relatively) low number.  

Under is 7-1 in Rockets last eight games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Under is 7-1 in Warriors last eight overall. Under is 5-1 in the last six meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

CELTICS @ CAVS *ATS ANNIHILATOR*

Cleveland Cavaliers trail 3-2 in this Eastern Conference Finals series, but the home team has won every game to date. I expect more of the same when the desperate Cavs host the Boston Celtics at Quicken Loans Arena tonight. Boston is just one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010 following a 96-83 win in Wednesday's Game 5 at TD Garden, but there's just no way a team led by Lebron James lose this elimination in front of the home fans. "We have another opportunity on Friday to be as good as we can be, play Cavs basketball on our home floor and force a Game 7," James said. "I look forward to seeing us respond on Friday night."

Cleveland won the first two home games of this series by 30 and nine points respectively. 

8* play on Cleveland Cavaliers. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ ROCKETS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Houston Rockets had the audacity to march into Oracle and end Golden State's 16-game home postseason winning streak (plus stealing back home-court advantage) with a 95-92 victory Tuesday night. That can't sit right with the mighty Warriors who had beaten Houston by 41 points only a couple of days prior. Great spot to back Golden State to bounce back here at Toyota Center Thursday night. Warriors are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings in Houston and 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a straight up loss. Rockets are 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a straight up win.

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA)

The Golden State Warriors took a big beating in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals, but they bounced back in a big way with a 41-point victory in Game 3. Can the Rockets do the same here Tuesday night? I don't think so as I like the Warriors to take a 3-1 lead in the series with another blowout win. They've figured out how to beat the Rockets who don't have enough weapons or defensive tenacity to keep with with Golden State. Steph Curry found his range in Game 3 and finished with a game-high 35 points on 13-of-23 shooting after going just 2-of-13 from 3-point range in the first two games of the series. Bad news for Houston ... Bad, bad news. 

10* NBA Game of the Week: Golden State Warriors. 

TOP RATED CELTICS @ CAVS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Boston Celtics opened the Eastern Conference Finals with a pair of triumphs home at TD Garden, but they took a 116-86 loss here at Cleveland in Game 3. I like the Cavs to stay aggressive and tie the series with another win tonight as they can't afford to go back to Boston 3-1 down in the series. Cleveland held Boston to 39.2 percent shooting from the floor in the last game and the crowd should give the home team the energy needed to do the same here in Game 4. 

Celtics are 2-6 ATS in their last eight road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Cavaliers are 5-2 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

10* play on Cleveland Cavaliers. 

TOP RATED ROCKETS @ WARRIORS* BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Golden State Warriors stole home court advantage with a 13-point victory at No. 1 seed Houston i Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. The Rockets bounced back with a 127-105 thrashing in Game 2 but I like the Warriors to come back and defend home court here in Oakland Sunday night. Golden State has lost three games here in the postseason, and has rebounded to win by a total of 34 points in the game after each of its first two losses. Let down spot for the Rockets who are 3-13-1 ATS in their last 17 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.

10* play on Golden State Warriors.

TOP RATED CELTICS @ CAVS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Boston Celtics are coming off a pair of convincing triumphs home at TD Garden. I backed the Cavs to win both those games outright, but I like Boston to cover the spread as a road dog here in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics have amazing numbers against the spread as an underdog this season and they're 20-8 ATS in their last 28 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. The Cavs are definitely overrated here, particularly considering they're 15-35-1 ATS in their last 51 home games.

10* play on Boston Celtics. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ ROCKETS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Golden State Warriors delivered a huge 119-106 win in Game 1 of this series. This is what I said in my write up ahead of that game: 

"The Houston Rockets are the top seed in the West and expected to give Golden State a tough matchup for the Conference crown this year. They averaged 117.3 points per game during the regular season and live and die by the three, but the Warriors no doubt have the capability of hurting teams from behind the arc too as well as posing a big threat on the inside. I also rate Golden State's defense way above Houston's dito." 

As it turned out, it was the fast breaks that earned Golden State the victory with 18 fast break points against Houston's 3. The Warriors have too many weapons and ways to win for the Rockets to compete with. 

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

CAVS @ CELTICS *HARDWOOD HAMMER*

The Boston Celtics opened the Eastern Conference Finals with a 108-83 rout of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland superstar Lebron James was 5-of-16 from the floor and had seven of his team's 10 turnovers in Game 1, and the Cavs as a team missed their first 14 3-pointers and finished just 4-of-26 from behind the arc.

I don't know if James and the rest of the Cavs underestimated their opponent, but if they did they sure won't do the same mistake again. I expect a fully focused and determined Cleveland team to take the floor at TD Garden tonight to make sure they return home with this series tied at 1-1.

8* play on Cleveland Cavaliers. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ ROCKETS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Houston Rockets are the top seed in the West and expected to give Golden State a tough matchup for the Conference crown this year. They averaged 117.3 points per game during the regular season and live and die by the three, but the Warriors no doubt have the capability of hurting teams from behind the arc too as well as posing a big threat on the inside. I also rate Golden State's defense way above Houston's dito. 

Warriors are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings in Houston and 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings.

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA)

The Boston Celtics are undefeated (7-0) in Beantown so far in the playoffs, but I'm very confident that's about to change here in the opener of their Eastern Conference Finals series with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Cavs struggled with Indiana in the first round but are coming off an impressive 4-0 sweep of No. 1 seed Toronto. LeBron James is playing better than ever and has averaged 34.3 points, 9.4 rebounds and 9.0 assists, shooting 55.3 percent from the field. The King will no doubt will benefit from the extended rest after beating the Raptors 128-93 in Game 4 on Monday.   

It took the Celtics five games to get past a talented 76ers side in their Eastern Conference Semifinals series which ended Wednesday. Impressive in its own right, but the Cavs are a much more experienced side than the young Sixers. 

Cleveland defeated Boston in five games in the Conference Finals last year, going undefeated through the three games here at TD Garden. A lot of respect for the Celtics and coach Brad Stevens, but no way the Cavs lose this one. 

10* NBA Game of the Month: Cleveland Cavaliers. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA)

The Phildadelphia 76ers came up with a big performance at a crucial time when they defeated Boston 103-92 on Monday. The Celtics are still just one victory away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals though, and I think they'll get the job done home at TD Garden tonight. 

Note that the Celtics are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 at home and 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. 

"It's 3-1, we get a chance to go back to Boston," forward Marcus Morris told reporters after Monday's defeat. "Nobody's head is down. We're all motivated. We're happy. It would've been better to end it (Monday), but so be it. We go back to Boston and play." 

10* NBA Game of the Week on Boston Celtics. 

TOP RATED PELICANS @ WARRIORS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Golden State Warriors took the night off in Game 3 of this series but bounced back with a dominant 118-92 victory on Sunday, their second win by more than 20 points in the series. They can close it out tonight to move on to the Western Conference Finals, and I don't think they'll let the pumped up home town crowd down. The Warriors have averaged 120.7 points in their three victories and points should come fast and easy for the home team here with Steph Curry eager to get back to his best after an injury that kept him out for several weeks.

It's also worth noting that Warriors bench have outscored the Pels' 134-95 in the four games, and New Orleans' Anthony Davis (39.3) and Jrue Holiday (38.2) must be getting worn out as they lead the series in minutes played.

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

TOP RATED CELTICS @ 76ERS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Boston Celtics have reeled off three straight upset wins here in their Eastern Conference semifinals matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers. They're an underdog once again here in Game 4, and I'm happy to take the points on the visitors Monday night. The Philadelphia 76ers have a talented, but also very inexperienced roster. How will their youngsters handle the pressure of an elimination game in front of a demanding home town crowd? Not all that well is my prediction. The Celtics are 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings overall and 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings at Wells Fargo Center.

10* play on Boston Celtics. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ PELICANS *ATS ANNIHILATOR*

The New Orleans Pelicans held the Golden State Warriors to 38 percent shooting in a 119-100 victory on Friday. The Pelicans are 21-6 ATS in their last 27 games following a ATS win and 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record, and I think they'll keep it close again here in front of the home town crowd. The bookies have a tendency to overvalue Golden State on the road, and the Warriors are just 2-11 ATS in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

10* play on New Orleans Pelicans. 

TOP RATED RAPTORS @ CAVS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Cleveland Cavaliers struggled to get past the Pacers in the first round of the NBA playoffs, but they have really stepped up their game here in the Eastern Conference semis.

Cleveland swept the  Toronto Raptors in this round last year, and it looks like history is about to repeat itself after back-to-back Cavs triumphs north of the border. "It's one game at a time, and that's the only way we should look at it," said LeBron James, who scored 43 and added 14 assists in Game 2. 

Counting the regular season, the Raptors have dropped four straight against Cleveland, including two at Quicken Loans Arena, and the Cavs are 4-0 ATS in those four games.

Raptors are 0-5-1 ATS in their last six Conference Semifinals games. Cavaliers are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 Conference Semifinals games.

10* play on Cleveland Cavaliers.

TOP RATED ROCKETS @ JAZZ *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Utah Jazz lost Game 1 of this series by 14 points but bounced back with a 116-108 triumph Wednesday night to steal homecourt advantage. I think they might very well defend it and win this game outright, but taking the points on the home team should be a safe bet. 

The Rockets are just 1-5 ATS in their last six on the road, and playing in the high altitude in Salt Lake City is never an easy task, particularly in the playoffs. The home team is used to the conditions and how to turn it into an advantage. 

10* play on Utah Jazz. 

TOP RATED NBA *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Boston Celtics won the opener of this Eastern Conference semifinals series 117-101. I think they'll put up another strong performance home at TD Garden Thursday night. Celtics are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games and have won four of five games against the 76ers this season. Boston has been money against the spread as an underdog all season long, and I'm very happy to take the points on the home team in this contest.

10* play on Boston Celtics. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA)

The Golden State Warriors put a 123-101 beating on the New Orleans Pelicans in the series opener, and here they're expected to have star guard Stephen Curry back in action. Curry has been out since spraining the MCL in his left knee on March 23 but coach Steve Kerr classified him as probable after Monday's practice. That would be a huge boost for an already super talented Warriors team, and if they Pels didn't stand a chance against the Warriors without Curry, why would tonight be any different?

Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last six Conference Semifinals games. Warriors are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 Conference Semifinals games. Warriors are 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings at Oracle Arena. 

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

CAVS @ RAPTORS *NO-BRAINER*

Lebron James carried the Cavs through a tough seven-game series with the pacers which concluded just two days ago. The King played 41.2 minutes per game in the series and logged 43 minutes in Cleveland's 105-101 Game 7 triumph on Sunday. I don't think the 33 year old will have much gas left in the tank for this matchup, and the rest of the Cavs are simply not that scary. The Toronto Raptors are the No. 1 seed in the East and come into this contest fairly well rested after defeating the Wizards in six games. 

Toronto won the last head-to-head meeting here at Air Canada Centre 133-99, and maybe the Cavs will make it close in the other games in the series, but I fully expect another double-digit win for the home team tonight. 

8* play on Toronto Raptors. 

TOP RATED 76ERS @ CELTICS TOTAL *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Philadelphia 76ers defeated Miami in five games in the first round, and they really turned up the heat defensively at the end of the series. The Boston Celtics relied on solid defensive performances at home as they needed seven games to get past the Bucks. 

Philadelphia won the last meeting 89-80 here at TD Garden, and three of the last four head-to-head matchups have gone under the total. 

Under is 10-3 in 76ers last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Under is 5-2 in Celtics last seven home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

10* play on PHI @ BOS to go UNDER the total. 

TOP RATED JAZZ @ ROCKETS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Utah Jazz are coming off a tough six-game series against the Thunder while the Houston Rockets have had additional rest after eliminating the Timberwolves in five games. Rockets are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games playing on three or more days rest and I don't think Utah will stand a chance against the well rested Rockets here Sunday afternoon.

Houston dominated Utah in four meetings during the regular season, winning all four by an average of 17.5 ppg and it has covered the spread in seven of the last nine meetings at Toyota Center.

10* play on Houston Rockets. 

PACERS @ CAVS GAME 7 *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Indiana Pacers in a deciding Game 7 of this Eastern Conference quarterfinals on Sunday. 

The Pacers forced this game with a convincing 121-87 win home at Indiana Friday night and have covered the spread in five of the six games in the series. LeBron James won the last matchup here at Quicken Loans Arena with a buzzer-beater, and I think we'll see another close game going down to the wire today. 

Pacers are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Cavaliers are 12-37-2 ATS in their last 51 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

8* play on Indiana Pacers.