NBA
Play: Houston Rockets
Rating: 8*

The Houston Rockets are battling for a playoff spot and are desperate for a win as they're entering play Monday one game behind the Jazz for No. 8 in the West with only two games to go. Failure is not an option tonight and I expect to see a fired up Houston team. The Rockets caught some momentum with a 130-110 win against the lowly Lakers last night and they're 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings in Minnesota. The Timberwolves have come to life with three consecutive wins at Golden State, Sacramento and Portland, but they're 0-4 ATS in their last four home at Target Center. 

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

I like the Charlotte Hornets to cover the spread in a low-scoring game. The Hornets will be looking to bounce back from a 113-98 loss at Washington on Sunday, and they're 5-1 ATS in their last six games playing on no rest and 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. The Celtics are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall and the Hornets are 12-5-1 ATS in the last 18 meetings in Boston.

With both teams battling for homecourt advantage for the playoffs this game will have a playoff like atmosphere and I think we'll see a defensive battle.  

NBA
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

I like the Charlotte Hornets to cover the spread in a low-scoring game. The Hornets will be looking to bounce back from a 113-98 loss at Washington on Sunday, and they're 5-1 ATS in their last six games playing on no rest and 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. The Celtics are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall and the Hornets are 12-5-1 ATS in the last 18 meetings in Boston.

With both teams battling for homecourt advantage for the playoffs this game will have a playoff like atmosphere and I think we'll see a defensive battle.  

Top Rated NBA *BASKET BRAWLER*
Play: San Antonio Spurs
Rating: 10*

NBA
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

Top Rated *BASKET BRAWLER*
Play: Atlanta Hawks
Rating: 10*

The looks like a good spot to back the Atlanta Hawks as they host the Boston Celtics Saturday night. 

It's a tight race for home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference, and the 3rd placed Hawks and 4th placed Boston can take a big step towards gaining it Saturday night. The teams enter this contest with identical 47-32 records, but home court advantage is swaying this contest in Atlanta's favor IMO. 

The Hawks have won nine of their last 11 at home and are 6-4 ATS as a home favorite of 3.5 to 6 points this season while the Celtics are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games overall. They're 3-13 ATS in their last 16 road games vs. a team with a winning home record and will be playing on short rest after a 124-109 home win against Milwaukee last night. The Hawks have had an extra day off since an impressive 95-87 win against Toronto Thursday. Jeff Teague scored 23 points against the Raptors and is averaging the same amount over a five-game span.

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

The Charlotte Hornets had suffered back-to-back losses before defeating the Knicks 111-97 Wednesday. They remain in the race for the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference and will definitely play to beat the Nets here. That means limiting Brooklyn's offense, which shouldn't be that big of a task anyway. The Nets have shut down veteran frontcourt players Brook Lopez and Thaddeus Young which hurt their offense big time. 

Under is 5-2 in Nets last seven road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600 and 4-1 in Hornets last five home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Top Rated Western Conf Total *GAME OF THE YEAR*
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The San Antonio Spurs and the Golden State Warriors will square off twice in the last week of the season. The Warriors will play host Thursday night, and I think points will be hard to come by for both teams. 

The under is 4-0 in the last four meetings in the series and the Spurs won the most recent matchup 87-79 on March 19. They were zoned in on defense in Tuesday's 88-86 win at Utah and you can always count on Gregg Popovich's team to play hard on defense. 

The Warriors will be looking to bounce back from their second home loss in three games with losses against Boston and Minnesota. We can note that teh under is 6-1 in the Warriors last seven games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and 5-2 in Warriors last seven after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game, which they did in Tuesday's 124-117 OT loss against the Wolves. 

I don't see either coach being particularly interested in giving away their offensive gameplan but will save that for the playoffs, so we should see two pretty stale offenses.

Top Rated NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The New Orleans Pelicans will visit the Boston Celtics Wednesday night. The under is 13-3 in the last 16 meetings in Boston, and this total looks a bit high to me. 

The injury-ridden Pels had only starter averaging more than 7.6 points in yesterday's 107-93 loss to the 76ers. Under is  21-6 in Pelicans last 27 games playing on no rest and 9-0 in Pelicans last nine vs. a team with a winning straight up record. We can also note that 26 of New Orleans' 38 road games this season have stayed under the total. 

The Celtics are off a pair of wins against two very different teams, as they handed the Warriors a 109-106 loss Friday followed by a 107-100 win at Lakers Sunday. They're back home after a lengthy road trip and we can note that the under is  8-1 in Celtics last nine home games following a road trip of seven or more days and 6-1 in Celtics last seven overall.

NBA
Play: Portland Trail Blazers
Rating: 8*

Big game for the Portland Trail Blazers as they look to catch the free-falling fifth-place Memphis in the West. They had won four on the bounce prior to a 136-111 loss at Golden State Sunday, nothing to be ashamed of. The Trail Blazers are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.

The Sacramento Kings have done OK lately, winning four of their last six, but they lost 105-93 at Portland on March 28 and the Blazers are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings in Sacramento. Damian Lillard has averaged 30.7 points while hitting 14-of-26 from 3-point land in his last three trips to Sacramento, and he's off a 38 points performance against the Warriors. 

NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The over is 5-1 in the past six meetings between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets, but I think tonight's contest will stay under the total.

OKC blew yet another fourth-quarter lead in Sunday's 118-110 defeat at Houston, the 13th time that has happened this season. Such performances are obviously a big no-no in the playoffs, and I think we'll see the Thunder focus on shoring up their defense here in the last regular season games. They'll probably like the fact that the Nuggets have been abysmal in the fourth quarter in their last two, totaling 35 points on 26.7 percent shooting, including 2 of 16 from 3-point range. The Nuggets have not been much of an offensive threat lately overall and the under is 4-1-1 in their last six games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

NBA
Play: Atlanta Hawks
Rating: 8*

No Comment

NCAA Tourney Final
Play: North Carolina
Rating: 8*

The North Carolina Tar Heels are coming into the NCAA Tourney Final as a small favorite against the Villanova Wildcats, and I think they'll win comfortably. 

Villanova has better shooting from behind the arc, but I don't see them being able to stop the Tar Heels on the inside. 

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Memphis Grizzlies
Rating: 8*

The banged up Memphis Grizzlies are entering this contest as losers of five straight, and the situation is getting desperate with only a slim edge over sixth-place Portland in the Western Conference playoff picture and a four-game lead over ninth-place Houston. They're however 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings in Orlando and this looks like a lot of points to give the Grizzlies. 

Orlando had recorded three straight wins prior to a 113-110 loss at Milwaukee Friday. Eliminated from playoff contention already I think they'll struggle to motivate themselves to bounce back with a big effort here.  

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Dallas Mavericks
Rating: 8*

The Dallas Mavericks are coming off three consecutive wins, yielding just 88.7 points in that span. They picked up a huge win when they defeated the Pistons 98-89 Friday to massively improve their chances of reaching the postseason. 

They come into this contest looking to complete the season sweep of the Wolves and their seventh straight win in the series. They're 6-1 ATS in their last seven road games and can play hard with plenty of rest to look forward to before Wednesday's crucial matchup against the Rockets.

The Wolves have dropped three of their last four and put up just 85 points in a 13-point loss at Utah Friday. They're 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.

NBA Top Rated Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Washington Wizards are still playing hard as they're within striking distance of the East's No. 8 seed. They're off a 106-99 win at Phoenix Friday and the under is 6-2 in Wizards last eight games following a straight up win and 6-2 in Wizards last eight after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. "When we play defense and we're locked in, we're a totally different team," John Wall said after the game against the Suns. "It's the end of the season, there's only six games left, but that's something we've been preaching all year."  

The Clippers' reserves came oh so close to defeat the Thunder Thursday but they ended up a 119-117 loser in the end. Starters  Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan and J.J. Redick plus Blake Griffin will all likely play today, which should benefit the Clippers' D. Under is 5-1 in the Clippers last six overall and 18-5 in their last 23 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Wizards have struggled in previous meetings with the Clippers as a 108-91 loss in Washington on Dec. 28 marked the 12 loss in the last 14 of this series. We should see another low-scoring encounter today.

CBB *GAME OF THE YEAR*
Play: Syracuse
Rating: 10*

I like the Syracuse Orange to give the North Carolina Tar Heels a run for their money in this Final Four matchup Saturday night. 

This will be the third meeting of the season. The Tar Heels won the first game, 84-73 on the road and 75-70 from Chapel Hill later in the season. Syracuse is 3-1-1 ATS in the last five meetings.

North Carolina is the only No. 1 seed in this Final Four and the ACC's highest-scoring team at 83 points a game, but I think they'll struggle with Syracuse's solid defense. 

Top Rated NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Indiana Pacers have averaged just 95 points per game over a pair of home losses to Chicago and Orlando. Under is 7-1 in Pacers last eight games following a straight up loss and 5-1 in their last six overall. They fell 114-94 to the Magic Thursday and the under is 17-5 in their last 22 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

The pathetic Philadelphia 76ers are losers of 11 straight and are off a 100-91 defeat at Charlotte last night. They've averaged 88 points in their last two games and struggle offensively without big men Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel - both sidelined with knee injuries.

Indiana has won eight of nine meetings, limiting the 76ers to an average of 78 points in the last three. They defeated Philly 91-75 at home on March 21 and we should see another low-scoring affair tonight.

Top Rated NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Washington Wizards have lost four of their last five to drop three games behind the No. 8 seed in the East. They've been struggling defensively lately, but should have little to fear from a Phoenix Suns team that shot 5-for-24 from 3-point range in Wednesday's 105-94 loss at Milwaukee. The under is 7-2 in Suns the last nine overall and 5-1 in their last six following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

The under is 4-0 in Wizards last four road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400 and 9-6 in a road game where the total is greater than or equal to 210 this season. John Wall has been just shooting 36.5 percent in the first three of a five-game trip and has gone 8-for-30 in the last two games for 22 points.

Under is 5-0-1 in the last six meetings and 4-0 in the last four meetings in Phoenix.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Miami Heat
Rating: 8*

This looks like a good spot to back the Miami Heat as they're looking to bounce back from a 102-100 OT loss to the Lakers Wednesday. They're 10-1 ATS in their last 11 Friday night games and 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a straight up loss.

The Sacramento Kings have won three of their last four and are off a 120-111 against Washington Wednesday. DeMarcus Cousins picked up his league-leading 16th technical, which brings an automatic one-game suspension if upheld. The Kings are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record and 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games.

Miami is battling with Atlanta and Charlotte for the Southeast Division title and the third seed in the East. They'll be pissed off after the embarrasing loss to the Lakers and I expect a big response. The Heat have won the past three meetings, including a 116-109 home win over the Kings on Nov. 19. The Heat are 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings in Sacramento.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Memphis Grizzlies
Rating: 8*

The Memphis Grizzlies are desperate for a win after four consecutive losses. They're still holding on to the fifth seed in the West which would give them the Clippers in the first round of the playoffs and they don't want to drop down to sixth to face the Thunder. "We don't want to just get in the playoffs,"  coach Dave Joerger said after a loss Wednesday. "We want to get fifth, and we want to play the Clippers. This was not a step in the right direction."

Memphis is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 vs. Eastern Conference teams and its looking to bounce back from a disappointing 109-105 home loss against Denver Wednesday. The Grizzlies are 13-5 ATS in their last 18 games following a straight up loss and 17-8 ATS in their last 25 home games. Raptors are 3-7-2 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Memphis.

With a new franchise record for victories and the Atlantic Division title both secured, the Toronto Raptors may not be thinking about a No. 1 seed. They defeated Atlanta 105-97 at home Wednesday but are 1-4 ATS in their last five vs. Western Conference teams. We can also note that they're in a look ahead spot with a more interesting challenge in the form of a matchup against the Spurs in San Antonio on deck tomorrow. 

NBA 
Play: Under
Rating: 5*

No Comment

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Portland Trail Blazers
Rating: 8*

This looks like a great spot to back the Portland Trail Blazers as they host the Boston Celtics Thursday night. 

The Celtics lost 114-90 against the Clippers in LA Monday and they're 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games overall and 1-10 ATS in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.. Portland has won five straight home games and 14 of its last 16. It is off a convincing 105-93 win against the Kings Monday and is a solid 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games playing on two days rest, the Celtics are 0-5 ATS in their last five playing on same rest. We can also note that Boston is in a look ahead spot with a match-up against the Warriors on deck tomorrow while Portland has a day off before facing Miami Saturday.

Portland will seek to revenge a 116-93 loss at Boston on March 2, and it is 24-17 ATS revenging a loss vs. an opponent this season. 

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The Denver Nuggets won 109-105 at Memphis last night while the New Orleans Pelicans fell 100-92 at San Antonio. With both teams on the back-end of a back-to-back, I expect a low-scoring contest.

The under is 20-6 in the Pels last 26 games playing on no rest and 12-4 in the last 16 meetings in New Orleans. Denver is still alive in the playoff race thanks to last night's win, and it'll play hard on defense. New Orleans' biggest offensive threats in Anthony Davis, Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday are all out for the rest of the season. 

NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost two of their last three and fell 104-95 at Brooklyn a week ago. LeBron James was rested in Tuesday's 106-100 home loss against the Rockets, but he'll be back on the floor tonight. 

The Nets are off a very high-scoring contest when they lost 139-105 at Orlando two days ago. The under is 5-2 in their last seven games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game and 4-0 in their last four games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. We can also note that the under is 6-2 in the Cavs last eight when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game and 4-0 in their last four vs. a team with a losing straight up record.

Under is 11-5 in the last 16 meetings in Cleveland and 4-0 in the last four meetings overall. Cleveland will be looking to revenge last week's defeat, and since it lacks any kind of team chemistry right now it'll have to do it by playing solid defense. 

NIT Final
Play: Valparaiso
Rating: 8*

This is it, the National Invitational Tournament final featuring two schools eyeing their first NIT championship in ever!

I like Valparaiso here as they're playing with a point to prove after the NCAA Tournament snub. They had recorded three consecutive double-digit NIT wins prior to Tuesday's 72-70 victory over Brigham Young in the semifinals. "Obviously, we would have rather made the NCAA Tournament but this really adds to the legacy of our seniors and that's what I really feel good about," coach Mike Lonergan said Wednesday. "Getting to New York was probably what we really needed to do, for me, to have a good summer." 

George Washington is no doubt a talented team, but we can note that it is 2-6 ATS in its last eight games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and 2-9 ATS in its last 11 games after allowing less than 50 points in their previous game. That does not bode well coming off a 65-46 win against San Diego State.

The Colonials have the better defense of the two teams, but the Crusaders offense is superior and I think they'll run away with the game once they can create a gap. 

Top Rated NBA *BASKET BRAWLER*
Play: Miami Heat
Rating: 10*

The Los Angeles Lakers were obliterated by the Jazz in a 123-75 loss Monday to match the worst loss in team history. This is not a team I expect to bounce back from a poor performance and the Lakers are 0-4 ATS in their last four games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. 

Reports are indicating D'Angelo Russell's teammates are 'isolating' the rookie after a video surfaced in the past week that shows Russell recording a private conversation between himself and teammate Nick Young. No harmony in the Lakers camp, and I don't see them keeping up with the red hot Heat tonight. 

The Heat recorded their fourth win in five games when they comfortably beat the Nets 110-99 Monday. They're 20-6 ATS in their last 26 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and 2-0 ATS as a road favorite of 9.5 to 12 points this season. The Heat are 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings and 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings in Los Angeles.

NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The Golden State Warriors are off a 102-94 win against Washington last night, a game that went well under the total. The total is set a lot lower for today's matchup against the Utah Jazz, but I'm backing the under in this contest too.

The under is 5-1 in the Warriors last six overall and 5-1 in their last six when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. That is the case here as the Jazz are off a 123-75 blowout win against the Lakers Monday. Worth noting though that the under is 5-0 in the Jazz last five after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

Utah is allowing just 92.7 points per game home at Vivint Smart Home Arena this season and the team is playing at the slowest pace in the NBA with only 93.4 possessions per game. Golden State won't push the tempo in the back-end of a back-to-back situation.

Under is 19-7-2 in the last 28 meetings. 

NBA 
Play: Dallas Mavericks
Rating: 8*

The Dallas Mavericks ended a three-game skid with a 97-88 win at Denver Monday night. They're still desperate for wins though as they seek to overtake the Rockets for the eighth seed in the West, and they should come in motivated for their first game at American Airlines Center since March 20.

The Mavs are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall while the Knicks are 2-5 ATS in their last seven. New York is coming off a pair of losses against Cleveland and New Orleans and the motivation within the team is low. 

The Knicks have lost 13 of 15 visits to Dallas since 2000, and I don't see the mavs hold anything back tonight. 

NBA
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The Golden State Warriors are seeking to beat the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls’ regular-season record of 72 wins, and I would not bet against them failing. They also have to take the postseason into consideration though, and we're likely to see Steve Kerr rest his key players whenever possible. The over is 41-31-1 in games involving Golden State this season, but the under is 4-1 in its last five overall and I expect to see some lower scoring Warriors games here near the end of the season. 

The Washington Wizards are playing hard as they're trying to make it to the playoffs, and they put up a solid defensive performance when they held the Lakers to 37.9 percent shooting in a 101-88 win Sunday. The Lakers are obviously, no Warriors, but it was a step in the right direction and we can note that the under is 5-2 in the Wizards last seven following a straight up win.

With a game at Utah tomorrow I don't see the Warriors push the pace too much, and Washington will be happy to keep this a tight close game hoping to snatch a win in the end.  

Top Rated Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Houston Rockets 91-77 on Jan. 15 in the most recent meeting in the series. LeBron James contributed with 19 points and seven assists, but the Cavs superstar will be rested for tonight's contest. The under is 12-3-1 in Cavs games without LeBron since the start of the 2014/2015 season and I think this one will stay under the total as well. 

The Rockets will be looking to bounce back from a 104-101 loss at Indiana Sunday and they enter play Tuesday tied with the Mavs for the last playoff spot in the West, holding the tie-breaker. The under is 4-1 in the Rockets last five overall and 4-1 in their last five road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

The Cavs have been without offensive chemistry for quite some time, and I don't see how the loss of LeBron will help that. The Rockets will like their chances of picking up an important win and will play hard on D. We can also note that the under is 5-0 in Rockets' games as a road underdog of three points or less this season. 

NBA
Play: Indiana Pacers
Rating: 8*

The dysfunctional Chicago Bulls are winless in their last four games, the last in the row a devastating 102-100 home loss against Atlanta last night. Bounce back time tonight at Indiana? I don't think so. The Bulls are 1-4 ATS in their last five games playing on no rest and 3-9 ATS in their last 12 road games.

They'll face a Pacers team that has won three of its last four games to build a three-game gap to the ninth-placed Wizards and the 10th placed Bulls in the West. They're 11-2 ATS against division opponents this season and 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings wtih the Bulls. They won 104-92 when the Bulls came to visit back in November and have covered the spread in five straight meetings at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. 

Extremely tough spot for the Bulls, and I don't think they have neither the will power or energy to make this a close game. 

NBA
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The Los Angeles Clippers are coming off a pair of home wins against Portland and Denver, the most recent a 105-90 victory over the Nuggets last night. The under is 10-4 in their last 14 games playing on no rest and 12-4 in their last 16 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Boston Celtics are riding a four-game winning streak fueled by solid defensive performances and Boston leads the league in 3-point defense this season at 32.6 percent. The under is 4-1 in the Celtics last five overall. 

Under is 4-1 in Celtic road games where the total is between 205 and 209.5 points this season and 6-2 in Clippers home game with the total in the same span.

NBA
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

The Dallas Mavericks are allowing a league-worst 112.3 points per game since Feb. 5 and 124.0 per game over their past five. Their hopes of making the playoffs suffered another blow last night when they fell 133-111 at Sacramento for their 10th loss in 12 games. The over is 4-1 in the Mavs last five playing on no rest and 13-5 in their last 18 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Nuggets are also coming off a loss last night when they fell 105-90 to the Clippers at LA. The over is 6-1 in Denver's last seven playing on no rest and 18-7-1 in their last 26 home games.

Over is 15-8 in the Mavs games versus poor defensive teams that are allowing 99+ points/game in the 2nd half of the season and 33-16 in Denver games versus poor defensive teams that are allowing 99+ points/game for the season. 

NBA
Play: Toronto Raptors
Rating: 8*

The Oklahoma City Thunder are coming into this contest riding a seven-game winning streak, but I still don't think they should be favorites in a matchup against the Raptors at Toronto. 

The Raptors are off a solid 115-91 win at New Orleans Saturday and they're a perfect 6-0 ATS in their last six home games vs. a team with a winning road record. They won 103-98 at Oklahoma City back in November and have covered the spread in each of the last five meetings in the series. 

The Thunder are off a 111-92 win against the Spurs, but keep in mind that San Antonio rested several starters. The Thunder are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points and just 18-27 ATS versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season. The Raptors are 2-0 ATS as a home underdog of 3 points or less this season and 8-2 ATS over the past three seasons.

OKC has the No. 3 seed in the West locked down while Toronto can catch Cleveland for the top seed in the East.  

Top Rated Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Golden State Warriors need to win eight of their final 10 games to finish 73-9, which would mark the best season in NBA history. The Philadelphia 76ers should be an easy obstacle to get past Sunday night. 

The Sixers are the lowest scoring team in the NBA with a 97.0 average and they'll be without their leading scorer Jahlil Okafor for this contest. The under is 5-1 in their last six overall and we can note that the under is 5-1 in 76ers last six after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game and they're off a 108-105 loss at Portland last night. 

The Warriors are the highest scoring team in the NBA with a 115.4 points per game average, but the under is 6-2 in their last eight vs. a team with a winning % below .400. and 4-1 in the last five meetings with Philly. They won 108-105 at Philadelphia on Jan. in the only previous meeting this season and I think they'll be more concerned about maintaining good energy levels rather than blow away the Sixers. 

NBA SUNDAY'S BEST BET *TOP RATED*
Play: Dallas Mavericks
Rating: 10*

The Dallas Mavericks are desperate for a win after dropping nine of their last 11. That stretch began with a 104-101 home loss to the Kings but I like the Mavs to revenge that defeat tonight. 

Dallas has had an extremely tough schedule lately with two losses to Golden State, one at Cleveland, one at Portland and a home win over the Blazers in their last five games. They're 5-1 ATS in their last six though and 4-0 ATS in their last four games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

The Kings are off a 116-94 win against Phoenix Friday but they're 6-16-1 ATS in their last 23 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game and had failed to cover the spread in seven straight home games prior to beating up on the Suns. 

Dallas gave forward Dirk Nowitzki the night off Friday to rest up so he should be fresh, looking to improve Dallas' chances of making the playoffs. Sacramento has nothing to play for and I think the more motivated Mavs will take this one down.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

This looks like a great spot to back the Charlotte Hornets to bounce back from a 112-105 defeat to Detroit last night. They're 6-2 ATS in their last eight games following a ATS loss and still battling for fourth place in the East. A win would distance themselves from the Bulls who are 4 1/2 games back at ninth place in the conference.

The Bucks shot 41.7 percent in a 101-90 loss in Atlanta on Friday, their fourth consecutive loss and they've averaged just 90.0 points in their last three home games. Charlotte has won eight of 11 on the road, has won four straight visits to Milwaukee (4-0 ATS) and claimed a 98-95 victory there Feb. 19.

The under is 4-0 in the Bucks last four home games and 5-1 in their last six overall. The under is 5-2 in the Hornets last seven overall and 5-2 in their last seven following a straight up loss. Under is 4-0 in the last four meetings.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

This looks like a great spot to back the Charlotte Hornets to bounce back from a 112-105 defeat to Detroit last night. They're 6-2 ATS in their last eight games following a ATS loss and still battling for fourth place in the East. A win would distance themselves from the Bulls who are 4 1/2 games back at ninth place in the conference.

The Bucks shot 41.7 percent in a 101-90 loss in Atlanta on Friday, their fourth consecutive loss and they've averaged just 90.0 points in their last three home games. Charlotte has won eight of 11 on the road, has won four straight visits to Milwaukee (4-0 ATS) and claimed a 98-95 victory there Feb. 19.

The under is 4-0 in the Bucks last four home games and 5-1 in their last six overall. The under is 5-2 in the Hornets last seven overall and 5-2 in their last seven following a straight up loss. Under is 4-0 in the last four meetings.

Elite 8 *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Kansas Jayhawks
Rating: 8*

I trust the Kansas Jayhawks to get the job done and defeat the Villanova Wildcats here to advance to the Final Four of the NCAA Tourney. 

Villanova has impressed so far in the tournament but is 1-4 ATS in its last five Saturday games and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 vs. Big 12 teams. The Wilcats have been putting up incredible numbers from behind the arc but I don't see them being able to keep that up much longer. Kansas is 14-3 ATS in its last 17 games overall, 6-2 ATS in its last eight Saturday games and 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

Two very talented teams, but I'm giving the edge to the Jayhawks.  

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

The Detroit Pistons have impressed offensively lately averaging 110.4 points during a five-game winning streak. They're off a 112-105 win against Charlotte last night and the over is 4-0 in Detroit's last four games playing on back-to-back nights. We can alsonote that the over is 5-1 in the Pistons last six overall and 10-4 in their last 14 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. 23 of their 36 games home at the Palace this season have gone over the total. 

The Atlanta Hawks are off a solid defensive performance in a 101-90 win against Milwaukee last night, but the over is 6-1 in the Hawks' last seven games playing on no rest and 4-0 in the last four meetings with Detroit. They won 118-114 on March 16 their last visit to the Palace and this should be another high-scoring encounter between the two Eastern Conference rivals. 

Top Rated NBA *BASKET BRAWLER*
Play: Denver Nuggets
Rating: 10*

I like the Denver Nuggets as they travel to LA to take on the Lakers Friday night. 

Denver has won two of its last three and rookie point guard Emmanuel Mudiay drained a game-winning 35-foot shot at the buzzer for a 104-103 victory against the 76ers Wednesday. "Honestly, I just want to win as many games as we can this year, whether we don't make the playoffs or not," Mudiay told reporters. "We are trying to change the culture because it's been down for about two years now ..." Sounds like the Nuggets have no intention what-so-ever of tanking the season and they're 7-1-1 ATS in their last nine road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. 

The Lakers have lost five of their last six (1-5 ATS) and they're 0-5 ATS in the last five when hosting the Nuggets. Kobe Bryant is playing through shoulder pain and might hold the team back if he opts to play.

NCAA Tourney *CA$H COW*
Play: UNC
Rating: 8*

The No. 1 seeded North Carolina Tar Heels will take on No. 5 Indiana Hoosiers Friday night, and I expect an easy win for the top seeded team. 

North Carolina won its seventh straight game on Saturday with a solid 85-66 win against No. 9 Providence. They're 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall. They've averaged more than 82 points and 64 shots a game this season and have limited 27 straight opponents to less than 45 percent shooting from the field. This team got what it takes to take down the whole tourney and albeit being a solid team, I don't think the Hoosiers can compete with them tonight. 

The only advantage I can see for the visitors are their shooting from behind the arc, but they were only 6-for-21 from 3-point land in Saturday's win against Kentucky.

NCAA Tourney Sweet 16 *GAME OF THE YEAR*
Play: Gonzaga
Rating: 10*

I like the Gonzaga Bulldogs to pick up a dominant win against the Syracuse Orange Friday night to move into the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament.

The Bulldogs have started the tourney by defeating the number six seed Seton Hall Pirates by a score of 68-52 and destroying the number three seed Utah 82-59. They're 7-0 ATS in their last seven games overall. 

The Orange are off a 70-51 victory over number seven seed Dayton followed by a 75-50 win over number 15 seed Middle Tennessee State. They're just 1-4 ATS in their last five NCAA Tournament games as an underdog though and I think they'll struggle with a Zags team that are shooting the ball better and will dominate the boards. 

Gonzaga averages nine more points per game than Syracuse this season, and combine that with a superior defense for the Zags and I'm sure you'll agree that this is an easy play on the Bulldogs.

NCAAB Total
Play: Under
Rating: 5*

Both the Wisconsin Badgers and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have made it here to the Sweet 16 thanks to solid defensive performances. 

Wisconsin defeated Pittsburgh 47-43 in the first round before upsetting the #2 seed Xavier with a 66-63 win Sunday. Under is 10-1 in the Badgers last 11 overall and 5-1 in their last six neutral site games.

Notre Dame is off a 70-63 win against Michigan followed by a 76-75 win against Stephen F. Austin. Under is 7-3 in the Fighting Irish last 10 overall and 15-5-1 in their last 21 NCAA Tournament games.

I expect the solid defending from both teams to continue and we should see this contest stay under the total. 

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Brooklyn Nets
Rating: 8*

The Cleveland Cavaliers are off a 113-104 home win against Milwaukee last night, but I think they'll be in for a tougher matchup at Brooklyn here the following day. Cleveland is 10-6 SU in the second half of back-to-back sets this season and Tyronne Lue said he would consult with the training staff to decide who will sit. "It could be a possibility that guys will sit out," Lue said.

We can note that the Cavs are 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 vs. Eastern Conference and 3-11-2 ATS in their last 16 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and 1-5 ATS as a road favorite of 6.5 to 9 points this season. The Nets are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. 

Brook Lopez starred with 29 points in Tuesday's 105-100 loss against the Hornets and leads the Nets with 38 points and 19 boards through two meetings with the Cavs this season.

NBA 
Play: Chicago Bulls
Rating: 5*

The Chicago Bulls are coming to MSG looking for a quick revenge after a 115-107 home loss to the Knicks last night. I like their chances as the Knicks are just 2-9 ATS in their last 11 home games and 1-7 ATS as a home underdog of 3.5 to 6 points this season. 

New York has little to play for while Chicago is trying to catch Detroit and Indiana for the last playoff spots in the East. "I told them they've got two choices right now," coach Fred Hoiberg said after yesterday's loss. "One's to tuck your tail between your legs and walk out of there with your head down or toughen up, suck it up and go find a way to get a win tomorrow and finish this thing out the right way." I think the second option is exactly what Chicago will do.

NBA Total
Play: Under 
Rating: 8*

The New Orleans Pelicans have been involved in several high-scoring games this season, but the under is 23-11-1 in their 35 games on the road and with Anthony Davis out for the season they're likely to struggle when on the ball.

The Indiana Pacers have seen the total go under in four of their last five overall and 5-2 in their last seven games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. They played solid defense in a 91-75 drubbing of the hapless Philadelphia 76ers in on Monday.

The under is 12-5-1 in the last 18 meetings in Indiana and 5-1 in the last six meetings overall.

NBA *LATE SHOW*
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

Analysis shortly

NBA Total
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

Analysis shortly

Top Rated Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

Analysis shortly

NBA *LATE SHOW*
Play: Memphis Grizzlies
Rating: 8*

The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Suns 103-97 at Phoenix last night and I like them to pick up another win at LA tonight despite playing on a back-to-back. The Grizzlies are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games playing on no rest and 7-1 ATS in their last eight after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering this contest on a four-game losing streak, the most recent setback a 95-90 home loss to Phoenix Friday. They're 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a straight up loss and they've lost all three meetings with Memphis this season by an average of 14.0 points allowing the Grizzlies to shoot 54.4 percent from the field. 

The Grizzlies spread out their minutes well last night as only two players logged more than 30 minutes (Randolph 30 and Barnes 35) while nine players logged 19+. Fatigue should not be an issue, and I expect the Grizzlies to roll over the Lakers with ease. 

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Atlanta Hawks
Rating: 8*

This looks like a good spot to back the Atlanta Hawks as they host the Washington Wizards for the first round of a home-and-home set Monday night. The Wizards are riding a four-game winning streak after wins against Detroit, Chicago, Philly and New York, but they're 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record and 0-5 ATS in their last five road games.

The Hawks are riding a five-game winning streak and they've won 10 of their last 12, holding opponents to 91.8 points per game on 39.2 percent shooting over that span. They're off a 109-97 win against Houston Saturday and 6-0 ATS in their last six following a straight up win of more than 10 points and 7-0 ATS in their last seven after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Wizards are 3-8-1 ATS in the last 12 meetings and the Hawks won 114-99 at home back in November.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Chicago Bulls
Rating: 8*

This looks like an excellent spot to back the Chicago Bulls are they'll host a Sacramento Kings team fresh off an 88-80 win at New York yesterday. The Kings are 1-4 ATS in their last five games playing on no rest and 0-4 ATS in their last four when their starting five players combine for more than 160 minutes of the previous day.

The Bulls are off a pair of comfortable wins against Brooklyn and Utah and 5-0 ATS in their last five home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Chicago won 107-102 at Sacramento on Feb. 3 and the Kings are just 4-13 revenging a home loss vs. an opponent this season and 6-14 ATS versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game in the 2nd half of the season. 

The Bulls will attempt to further their playoff push currently tied with the Pistons for the eighth and final playoff spot in the East with 14 games remaining. The Kings don't have anything to play for other than pride, and that motivation must be pretty low here in the tail-end of a back-to-back.

Top Rated NBA
Play: Golden State Warriors
Rating: 10*

I have no doubt that the Golden State Warriors will come into this contest with the Minnesota Timberwolves looking to inflict maximum damage on their opponent after Saturday's 87-79 loss at San Antonio, their worst offensive performance this season.

Golden State is 4-2 ATS after their previous six defeats this season and 5-1 ATS in their last six games following an ATS loss. They're 6-0-1 ATS in their last seven games playing on one days rest and 4-1 ATS in their last five Monday night games.

The Timberwolves upset the Grizzlies at Memphis with a 114-108 win Wednesday but were back to their losing ways with a 116-11 loss at Houston two days later. They're 12-28-1 ATS in their last 41 home games and the Warriors are 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings in Minnesota.

Stephen Curry was just 1-of-12 from 3-point land in the loss against the Spurs but he'll get more open shots tonight and I expect a big performance from the baby faced assassin. 

CBB
Play: Hawaii
Rating: 8*

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Los Angeles Clippers
Rating: 8*

The Los Angeles Clippers entered yesterday's matchup against the Grizzlies at Memphis as massive favorites but ended up an 11-points loser. They're 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up loss and I expect them to bounce back with a big win against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. 

The Pels are off a 117-112 loss to Portland on Friday as their superstar Anthony Davis was limited to just 14 minutes with knee and shoulder ailments. "I wouldn't say no to that. I wouldn't say no to that," coach Alvin Gentry told reporters Saturday regarding shutting down the forward for the remainder of the season and Davis is likely to sit out tonight's contest.

The Clippers are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games when playing a back-to-back so I don't think fatigue will be an issue, and the Clippers need a win jostling for best position possible for the playoffs.

NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 5*

The Boston Celtics has dropped five of their last six overall and four straight, averaging only 99 points on 40.6 percent shooting during the skid. The Sixers have lost four straight and 17 or their last 18 and this is a team that is averaging only 97.1 points per game this season. 

Under is 7-3 in the Celtics last 10 overall and 4-1 in their last five vs. Eastern Conference teams. Kelly Olynyk is 3-of-14 from the field in two games since returning from a shoulder injury. Boston needs a win but I don't think it'll go for a high-scoring blowout win with a matchup against Orlando home at TD Garden on deck tomorrow. Philly has given up on the season since long and won't push the tempo. 

Top Rated *TOTAL AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Over
Rating: 10*

The Portland Trail Blazers are off a 117-112 win at New Orleans on Friday but they've lost six of their last nine games while giving up an average of 115 points in that span. The over is 7-1 in Portland's last eight overall and 10-2 in its last 12 games following a straight up win.

The Dallas Mavericks got smoked by the Golden State Warriors in a 130-112 loss on Friday and over 10-4 in the Mavs last 14 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 12-5 in their last 17 overall.

Dallas took the first meeting this season 115-112 in overtime at Portland on Dec. 1. Over is 11-5 in the last 16 meetings overall and 7-1 in the last eight meetings in Dallas.

CBB
Play: Notre Dame
Rating: 8*

Saturday's NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP*
Play: San Antonio Spurs
Rating: 8*

The San Antonio Spurs are undefeated home at AT&T Center through 43 straight overall dating to March 2015. They've won a staggering 32 straight regular-season games when hosting the Warriors and they'll be looking to avenge a 30-point loss at Golden State back in January.

The Warriors are not in a particularly good spot coming off a 130-112 win at Dallas on Friday. They've covered the spread in just four of their last five when playing on a back-to-back nights, and we can note that Andre Iguodala is set to miss the game while Andrew Bogut was injured against the Mavericks and is questionable to play. The bench will be extremely important in this contest and the Spurs will now have a massive advantage in that regard.

The Spurs won by eight when they hosted Portland Thursday and are 21-9 ATS in their last 30 games following a ATS loss and 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

CBB *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Kansas
Rating: 8*

Ninth seeded Connecticut Huskies will be matched up against the top seeded Kansas Jayhawks Saturday and this should be a very one-sided affair. The Huskies are riding a five-game winning streak and downed eighth seed Colorado 74-67 Thursday. None of the wins were against teams with a winning record though and we can note that they're 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 as an underdog.

The Jayhawks are 12-3 ATS last 15 overall and off a 105-79 drubbing of the 16th seeded Austin Peay. The Jayhawks haven’t lost since an 85-72 defeat at Iowa State on Jan. 25, and are averaging 85.3 points over their last six outings.

I don't see how the Huskies will be able to keep up with this superior team, particularly considering the schedule has allowed Kansas to rest key players while Connecticut has played tons of tough matchups.

Top Rated Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

I expect to see a low-scoring contest when the Miami Heat entertain the Cleveland Cavaliers Saturday. 

Cleveland is on a roll with eight victories in its last 10 games, the most recent a 109-103 win in Orlando last night. The under is 9-4 in the Cavs last 13 games playing on no days rest and 4-0 in their last four road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

The Heat are a solid 22-13 SU at home this season and the under is 7-2 in the Heat's last nine home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. We can also note that the under is 22-13 when playing against a team with a winning record this season and 27-20 versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game.

There's no love lost between these to two teams and both sides will play hard on defense. 

CBB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Kentucky
Rating: 8*

The Indiana Hoosiers are off a solid 99-74 victory over 12th-seeded Chattanooga in Thursday's opener. They're however only 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games following a ATS win and 1-4 ATS in the last five meetings with the Kentucky Wildcats. Kentucky trounced No. 13 seed Stony Brook 85-57 and are 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a ATS win. The Wildcats have a deeper team and should win this contest behind their superior defense.

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Portland Trail Blazers
Rating: 8*

This looks like a good spot to back the Portland Trail Blazers as they look to bounce back from a pair of losses, the most recent a 118-110 setback at San Antonio last night. 

Portland is 4-1 ATS in its last five Friday night games and 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games following a straight up loss. Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum have not been at their very best lately but Lillard is averaging 25.5 points and seven assists through three meetings with New Orleans this season while McCollum is averaging 24 points.

The New Orleans Pelicans concluded a five-game trek by ending a four-game skid with a 123-108 win at Sacramento Wednesday. They're 0-7 ATS last seven games on Friday nights and 3-10 ATS off an upset win as an underdog this season.

The Trail Blazers are 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings and I'm happy taking the points on the way better team here, even though they're playing on back-to-back nights. 

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Houston Rockets
Rating: 5*

In addition to play this contest to go over the total, I also recommend a small play on Houston to win in a blowout fashion. The Rockets are off a 122-106 home loss to the Clippers and they've since held had a players-only-meeting.

Patrick Beverly: "I feel sorry for the team we play tomorrow. We came out with a lack of intensity. I didn't agree with coach J.B. (Bickerstaff) yesterday, but looking at the game a lot, I definitely have to agree with him today. We had those meetings and watched that film, it forces you to burn a fire inside to get ready for the next opponent. That's what our focus is. Our focus is Minnesota. We need a win. We're going to get a win tomorrow."

Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last six games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points and 6-2 ATS in its last eight home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. I'm counting on a big bounce back from the Rockets tonight.

NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK
Play: Over
Rating: 10*

I would be extremely surprised if Friday night's matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Houston Rockets don't go over the total. 

The Rockets are off a 122-106 loss to the Clippers Wednesday and each of their last four games have seen at least 224 points. The over is 6-0 in their last six games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points and 5-1 in their last six after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

The Timberwolves won 114-108 at Memphis Wednesday and the over is 9-2 in in their last 11 games following a straight up win and 19-6-1 in their last 26 overall. We can also note that the over is 11-2 in Minnesota's 13 matchups against against Southwest division opponents this season. 

Over is 4-0 in the last four meetings in Houston and 7-0 in the last seven meetings. We have a high total today, but I still think this one will fly over as well. 

CBB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Dayton
Rating: 8*

The Syracuse Orange will take on the Dayton Flyers Friday afternoon, and I like Dayton in this matchup.

The Orange are 4-15 ATS in their last 19 vs. Atlantic 10 while the Flyers are 5-0 ATS in their last five vs. Atlantic Coast. This is also a good day of the week for Dayton which is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six Friday games. 

Syracuse is stumbling into the tournament losing five of its last six games while Dayton made it to the Atlantic 10 Tournament semifinal where it lost to eventual champion St. Joseph’s.

NCAA East Region *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Kentucky
Rating: 8*

I predict an absolute massacre when the Kentucky Wildcats will take on the Stony Brook Seawolves in this East Region NCAA Tournament matchup Thursday night. 

The Seawolves are 0-5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall while the Wildcats are 5-0 ATS in their last five. The SEC tournament champions have an experienced squad and coaches having reached the Final Four in each of their last four NCAA Tournament appearances while Stony Brook is making its first NCAA Tournament appearance. 

NBA 
Play: San Antonio Spurs
Rating: 8*

The Portland Trail Blazers have had a rough month of March dropping five of their eight games, the most recent a 128-94 setback at Oklahoma City Monday. I don't like their chances of bouncing back with a win when they visit the San Antonio Spurs Thursday night.

The Spurs are a perfect 33-0 SU home at AT&T Center this season and 9-2 ATS as a home favorite of 9.5 to 12 points. They took the first two meetings this season, including a 93-80 home win on Nov. 16 and are 6-1 ATS in the last seven when hosting the Trail Blazers who are 1-4 ATS in their last five road games.

I think the Spurs will give it their all here to get the best dress rehearsal possible before Saturday's matchup against the Warriors while the Trail Blazers might look ahead for tomorrow's contest at New Orleans which they'll have a better chance of winning.

Top Rated *BASKET BRAWLER*
Play: Miami Heat
Rating: 8*

Very interesting matchup from the Eastern Conference as the third-placed Miami Heat host the sixth-placed Charlotte Hornets. Only 0.5 games separates the teams, so we're sure to see both sides come out and play hard. 

I'll give the Heat the advantage as they're well rested since a 124-119 wni against the Nuggets Monday and are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games playing on two days rest. The Hornets meanwhile are coming off a 107-99 home win against Orlando last night and they're 1-4 ATS in their last five when their starting five players combine for more than 160 minutes of the previous day.

Charlotte has won 14 of its past 17 games, but the majority of these games were at home, and it has been outscored by an average of 12.2 points in losing the last 14 meetings in Miami, including the playoffs.

8* NBA
Play: Toronto Raptors
Rating: 8*

Let's go with the Toronto Raptors as a small underdog at Indiana Pacers Thursday night. 

The Pacers have won four of their last five games and they're coming off a 103-98 home triumph over the Boston Celtics, but they're just 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games following a straight up win and 1-5 ATS in their last six Thursday games.

The Raptors are trying to chase down the Cavs for the top spot in the East and crushed the Milwaukee Bucks 107-89 Tuesday despite the fact that DeMar DeRozan was given the night off. They're 4-0-1 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

Indiana earned a 106-90 win at home over Toronto on Dec. 14 but we can note that the Raptors are 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings in Indiana and 8-1 ATS in the last nine meetings overall.

CBB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE* S-P-E-C-I-A-L
Play: Butler Bulldogs
Rating: 8*

The Butler Bulldogs are 5-1 ATS in their last six overall and I like them to win and cover the spread against the Texas Tech Red Raiders Thursday afternoon. 

Texas Tech are 1-3 SU in its last four games and fell to last-place TCU in the Big 12 tournament. It is 1-6-1 ATS in their last eight vs. Big East and 3-13 ATS in its last 16 neutral site games. The Bulldogs had won three straight prior to a 74-60 loss to Providence in their conference tourney, but there's no shame in losing to such a strong team and they're 3-0-1 ATS in their last four games following a straight up loss.

Top Rated
Play: Golden State Warriors
Rating: 10*

The Golden State Warriors are in a great spot here. They'll play hard going for a 50th consecutive home win and will have a day off before taking on the Mavs Friday night. 

The Warriors are off a 125-107 win over New Orleans on Monday when Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green all had the luxury of sitting out the fourth quarter, so their starters will be fresh for this contest. The Warriors are 4-0-1 ATS in their last five games playing on one days rest and 19-9-1 ATS in their last 29 Wednesday games. 

The New York Knicks have picked themselves up after a terrible month of February and have split their last six games SU. They're however 3-10 ATS in the last 13 meetings with the Warriors and 2-5 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Golden State.

Carmelo Anthony has been limited to 15.3 points and 28.6 percent in his last three road games against Golden State, and there's just no way the Knicks will keep this game even remotely close.

NBA
Play: Houston Rockets
Rating: 5*

The Los Angeles Clippers are in a tough spot coming off back-to-back blowout losses against the Cavs and the Spurs. They fell 108-87 at San Antonio last night and have lost five straight meetings with the Rockets at Houston. 

The Rockets are coming off a huge 130-81 point win against Memphis Monday, their fourth win in five games, as they shot 54.1 percent from the field and 16 for 33 from 3-point range. They've reached 100 points in eight straight games and is averaging 114.4 over the last five

Houston is a solid 5-1 ATS in their last six games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and a perfect 3-0 as a home favorite of three points or less this season.

Wednesday NBA
Play: Atlanta Hawks
Rating: 8*

The Atlanta Hawks are playing some real solid basketball right now and have been rewarded with the win in seven of their last nine games, holding opponents to an 88.1 points per game average on 37.8 percent shooting in that span. 

They're coming off a 104-75 rout of the Pacers Sunday and are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a straight up win of more than 10 points and 4-1 ATS in their last five games playing on two days rest.

The inconsistent Detroit Pistons are in a very different position coming off a 124-81 loss at Washington Monday. They're 2-5 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points and 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games playing on one days rest.

The Hawks have won eight of the past 12 meetings.

NIT *DESTROYER*
Play: North Florida
Rating: 8*

Let's take the points on North Florida Osprey against Florida Gators Tuesday night. 

North Florida lead the nation with 402 made 3-pointers and are averaging 84.8 points per game. Florida is very inconsistent both defensively and offensively and will struggle to stop the Osprey's shooting from behind the perimeter.

Gators are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games overall and 1-6 ATS in their last seven games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

Top Rated *MAIN EVENT* 
Play: San Antonio Spurs
Rating: 10*

The Los Angeles Clippers suffered a 114-90 home defeat to the Cavs Sunday and I think more pain is coming their way as they visit another top tier team in the San Antonio Spurs Tuesday night. 

The Spurs will be extremely fired up looking to revenge a 105-86 loss at LA on Feb. 18. They're 13-3 ATS in their last 16 when playing on same season double-digit loss revenge and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

The demoralized Clippers will stand no chance here. 

NBA *TOTAL OF THE DAY*
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

I think we'll see a low-scoring encounter when the Eastern Conference foes the Boston Celtics and the Indiana Pacers clash at Bankers Life Fieldhouse Tuesday night. 

The Celtics have lost two of their last three but controlled Houston's offense pretty well in a 102-98 loss Friday. The under is 5-2 in their last seven overall and 1-3 in road games where where the total is between 205 and 209.5 points this season.

The Pacers shot 37.9 percent and hit 5-of-24 from 3-point range in a 104-75 loss at Atlanta Sunday. Under is 16-5 in their last 21 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points and 5-1 in in their last six vs. Eastern Conference teams.

Under is 15-5-1 in the last 21 meetings overall and 6-1-1 in the last eight meetings in Indiana. None of the previous three meetings this season reached 200 points.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Minnesota Timberwolves
Rating: 8*

Yes please, give me the Minnesota Timberwolves as a small road dog at Phoenix Suns Monday night. 

The Wolves opened a four-game road-trip with a 99-96 win at Oklahoma City Friday night. Let down spot tonight? I don't think so, keep in mind that Minny is 9-4 ATS coming off an upset win as an underdog this season and it is 4-1 ATS in its last five games playing on 2 days rest.

The Suns on the other hand are coming off a mentally tough defeat to the Warriors as they entered the fourth quarter with a nine point lead but ended up a 123-116 loser. They're 4-22 ATS in their last 26 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record and the Timberwolves are 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings in Phoenix.

It's always tough to predict when these bottom dwelling teams will come out to play, but I have the Wolves as the far more talented team and they have plenty of positive momentum after the win against OKC.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Portland Trail Blazers
Rating: 8*

The Oklahoma City Thunder are off a pair of defeats against Minnesota and San Antonio. Monday's matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers will be another tough test. 

Portland has won two of its last three with the lone loss coming at Golden State. It's 9-3 ATS in its last 12 vs. Western Conference and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games.

The Thunder have been overpriced by oddsmakers all season long and they're just 25-38 ATS overall this season. They'll be looking to revenge a 115-110 loss at Portland on Jan. 10 but are only 7-14 when revenging a loss vs. opponent on the season.

Both teams rely on their offense to win games and we can note that the Trail Blazers are 28-19 ATS vs. poor defensive teams that are allowing 99+ points/game while the Thunder are 17-30 ATS.

NBA 3-Pack
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

I like the red hot Charlotte Hornets to take care of business against the slumping Dallas Mavericks Monday night. 

The Hornets are entering this contest on the back of seven consecutive victories (6-1 ATS) and they've averaged 118 points during the winning streak. They've had a very comfortable schedule as this will be their sixth straight contest home at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets are off a dominant 125-109 win against Houston Saturday and they're 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

The Dallas Mavericks meanwhile have lost five straight (0-5 ATS) despite playing the last three at home. They're 1-7 ATS in their last eight road games and 1-7 ATS in their last eight games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

The Mavs have some serious issues and I don't see them being able to compete with Charlotte tonight.

NBA *TOTAL THRASHER*
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

Pretty low total here, but these are two teams more than capable of playing lock down defense. The Hawks have won six of their last eight while giving up only 89.8 points per contest. They defeated the Grizzlies 95-83 yesterday as they held their opponent to just 34.7 percent shooting.

The Pacers have won four of their last five holding three of the opponents to 100 points or fewer. The under is 5-1 in the Pacers last six road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600 and 4-1 in their last five vs. Eastern Conference. With the teams jostling sixth and seventh in the conference this will surely be a tough defensive battle. 

The under is 7-2 in the last nine meetings at Philips Arena and the previous three meetings overall this season have seen an average of 193.6 points.

Top Rated *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Cleveland Cavaliers
Rating: 10*

The Cleveland Cavaliers have won five of their last six and have had plenty of time to make themselves comfortable in LA since a 120-108 win against the Lakers Thursday. Kevin Love sat out that contest due to knee pain but he's expected to be back on the floor today. The Cavs are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and 7-2 ATS in their last nine vs. Western Conference teams.

The Los Angeles Clippers are off a 101-94 win against the Knicks Friday but have only split their last four games, a 107-97 home loss to Atalanta included. The Clips are 1-4 ATS in their last five home games and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. teams from the Eastern Conference.

The Cavs have won 15 of the past 18 meetings and six of eight at LA. They defeated the Clippers 115-102 at home Jan. 21 and should get the job done today as well.

CBB *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Kentucky Wildcats
Rating: 8*

This looks like a good spot to back the Kentucky Wildcats in the SEC Tournament final. The Wildcats are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four overall and 20-8 ATS in their last 28 Sunday games. They'll be looking to revenge a 79-77 in overtime loss to Texas A&M on Feb. 20. 

The Aggies are 5-0 ATS in their last five games overall and off a 71-38 demolition of LSU yesterday. We can however note that Texas A&M is 3-9-1 ATS in its last 13 games following a straight up win of more than 20 points.

The reigning SEC Tournament the Wildcats are playing in the SEC tournament final for the sixth time in coach John Calipari’s seven years as head coach. The Aggies meanwhile are in their first conference tournament final since 1990. Easy play on the more experienced Wildcats.

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Charlotte Hornets
Rating: 8*

The Houston Rockets have won three of their first four of a five-game road trip, the most recent a 102-98 win at Boston last night. I don't like their chances as they close out the trek with visiting the scorching hot Charlotte Hornets tonight though. 

Charlotte is entering the game on the back of six consecutive wins and it will be looking to revenge a 102-95 loss at Houston back in December. The Hornets are 21-15 revenging a loss vs. an opponent this season and 4-1 ATS in their last five home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

The favorite is 15-4-2 ATS in the last 21 meetings between these two teams, and I like the Hornets to win and cover. 

NBA *SATURDAY BLOWOUT*
Play: Detroit Pistons
Rating: 8*

The Detroit Pistons will be looking to bounce back from a 118-103 loss at Charlotte last night. They're strong at the back-end of back-to-backs going covering the spread in each of their last five and they're a solid 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall. The 76ers on the other hand are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games playing on no days rest and a pathetic 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games overall. They did defeat the Nets 95-89 last night but had lost 13 straight leading up to that game. 

Philly is 0-8 ATS as a home underdog of 9.5 to 12 points on the season and I don't think the bookmakers have set this spread high enough. 

CBB *PLAY OF THE DAY*
Play: Temple Owls
Rating: 10*

Extremely tough spot for the UConn Huskies here as they're off a four-overtime 104-97 win against Cincinnati yesterday. They're 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. The top seeded Temple Owls had a smoother ride as they took off with a 79-62 win against South Florida yesterday. They're 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and they swept the regular season 55-53 and 63-58.

Top Rated NBA *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Indiana Pacers
Rating: 10*

The Indiana Pacers impressed mightily in a 99-91 win against the Spurs Monday for their third win in four games. I don't think we have to worry about a let down game for Indiana which is 6-1 ATS off an upset win as an underdog and 7-1 ATS when playing with three of more days of rest over the last three seasons.

The reeling Dallas Mavericks are coming into the game as losers of four straight (0-4 ATS) and they're 1-6 ATS in their last seven games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

Indiana has taken three straight in the series, including a 107-81 home victory on Dec. 16 and is 9-2 ATS in the last 11 meetings overall, 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in Dallas.

NBA Totals 3-Pack
Play: Under
Rating: 8*

The New York Knicks are coming into this contest as winners of two of their last three. They've allowed just 98.7 points per game in that span which is a huge improvement defensively. They're off a 128-97 win at Phoenix two days ago, and the under is 7-2 in the Knicks last nine games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game and 6-1 in their last seven vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

The Los Angeles Clippers lost 120-108 at Oklahoma City Wednesday, but we should see a much better defensive performance tonight. The under is 14-2 in the Clippers last 16 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 15-6 in their last 21 overall.

Under is 6-1 in the last seven head-to-head meetings.

NBA Totals 3-Pack
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

Both the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder are teams that are putting more focus on their offense than their defense. Minnesota has among the worst defensive efficiency marks in the NBA giving up 107.3 points per 100 possessions while OKC has the second best offensive efficiency at 109.7 points scored per 100 possessions. 

Over is 7-0 in the Timberwolves last seven games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and 16-4-1 in their last 21 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. They lost 116-91 against the Spurs Tuesday. 

The Thunder are off a revenge game against the Clippers Wednesday, a contest they won 120-108. Over is 9-2 in Thunder last 11 games playing on one days rest and 7-3-1 in the last 11 meetings with the Wolves in Oklahoma City.

NBA Totals 3-Pack
Play: Over
Rating: 8*

The Brooklyn Nets are off a pair of road losses at Minnesota and Toronto. The over is 9-2 in the Nets last 11 games following a straight up loss and 5-1 in their last six Friday night games. We can also note that the over is 12-5 versus poor defensive teams allowing 99+ points/game so far in the 2nd half of the season and 15-8 when playing against a team with a losing record on the season.

The 76ers have lost 13 straight, giving up 100 points or more in each of the last 12. Over is 5-1 in the 76ers last six overall, 19-7 in their last 26 home games vs. a team with a losing road record and 26-17 for the season against poor defensive teams that are allowing 99+ points/game.

None of the last eight meetings in the series have gone over, but that's a trend I expect to be snapped off tonight.

Top Rated CBB Friday
Play: Kansas
Rating: 10*

I expect to see an easy win for the top-ranked Kansas Jayhawks as they take on the No. 20 Baylor Bears Friday night. 

The Jayhawks won both meetings during the regular season, 102-74 at home and 66-60 on the road. They're 6-0-1 ATS in the last seven meetings and took care of business easily yesterday with an 85-63 win against Kansas State. They're 5-0 ATS in their last five neutral site games and 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games overall.

The Bears impressed in a 75-61 win against the Longhorns, but they're 2-6 ATS in their last eight games following a straight up win and 0-4 ATS in their last four Friday games.

Kansas is coming in hot, riding a 12-game winning streak, and it has dominated this series in recent seasons. Easy Kansas win. 

CBB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Texas A&M
Rating: 8*

The Texas A&M Aggies wrapped up the regular season with six straight wins (5-1 ATS). The Florida Gators are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 vs. teams with a winning record. Florida has won four of the six previous meetings but Texas A&M took a 71-68 home win in the lone meeting this season and the Aggies have the advantage of coming in well rested since a 76-67 win at home over Vanderbilt Saturday while the Gators fought back Arkansas 68-61 yesterday.

Super Early CBB
Play: Temple Owls
Rating: 8*

This should be an easy win for the Temple Owls. The South Florida Bulls are coming off a 71-66 win against East Carolina yesterday while Temple is coming in well rested. The Owls won the two regular season meetings 70-63 and 77-65. A bigger win is in the cards today.  

NBA *HARDWOOD HAMMER*
Play: Denver Nuggets
Rating: 8*

The Suns came into last night's contest against the Knicks on the back of a pair of wins against Orlando and Memphis but reverted back to their losing ways in a 128-97 defeat. They're 2-5 ATS in their last seven games playing on no days rest and 5-21 ATS in their last 26 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.

The Nuggets are off a pair of wins against Dallas and New York and have averaged 115.8 points during their last four games, scoring 100 or more points in seven of the past 10 contests. The Sun are extremely poor in the defensive end of the court so points should come easy for Denver tonight. 

Top Rated NBA Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10*

The Toronto Raptors defeated the Atlanta Hawks 96-86 at Atlanta on Dec. 2, and I think we'll see another low-scoring contest tonight. 

Atlanta has allowed 86.5 points per game in regulation while winning five of six overall and the under is 5-1 in that span. Under is 23-15 when Atlanta is facing a good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season. The Raptors have won 13 of their last 14 home games and they're allowing only 97.8 points per game home at Air Canada Centre this season.

These two Eastern Conference rivals will play each other hard on defense, and points won't come easy for either team. 

NCAAB 3-Pack
Play: Ole Miss
Rating: 8*

The Ole Miss Rebels will take on the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second round of the SEC Tournament Thursday evening. 

Ole Miss is entering the tournament as winners of four of its last five and it's 9-3-1 ATS in its last 13 overall. Alabama on the other hand struggled down the stretch (0-5 ATS last five) and rely too much on senior guard Retin Obasohan. The Rebels have a more balanced team and have owned the Crimson Tie in recent seasons, winning seven of the last 10 head-to-head meetings, a 74-66 home victory on Jan. 7 included.

NCAAB 3-Pack
Play: Penn State
Rating: 8*

I'm taking the points on Penn State Nittany Lions against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Big 10 Tournament Thursday night.

Penn State will be looking to revenge a 66-46 loss to the Buckeyes on Jan. 25. It won four of its last six regular season games and is 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 neutral site games. The Buckeyes on the other hand are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 neutral site games.

Ohio State wrapped up the season winning six of seven with the lone loss against Michigan State. This spread looks too large though so I recommend taking the the points on the Nittany Lions.

NCAAB 3-Pack
Play: Michigan
Rating: 8*

This looks like a good spot to back the Michigan Wolverines as they take on the Northwestern Wildcats in the second round of the Big 10 Tournament.

The Wolverines beat Northwestern 72-63 in their only meeting of the season. They lost four of five games down the stretch of the regular season, the most recent a 71-61 setback against Iowa. We can however note that they're 14-5 ATS last 19 following a double-digit loss at home. and a solid 27-9-1 ATS last 37 Thursday games.

The Wildcats meanwhile are only 4-10 ATS last 14 Thursday games and 1-4 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.