I had no problem backing the Raptors last night for their 2nd straight home game and will have no problem backing the Thunder for their 2nd home game.  I've been saying it all postseason Durant and Westbrook feel disrespected and are out to prove they are more than capable of not only playing together, but winning a title together.  The most impressive part of the Thunder blowing the Warriors out in game 3 was the fact they didn't even hit 10 3 pointers.  When you look at how most teams are competitive against Golden St they usually have to hit a lot of threes to keep up.  The Thunder know how to play them and that is going big and dominating the glass.  I have picked every game so far right in this series and look for another winner tonight.  

I was on the Raptors in Game 3 and have no problem backing them again here tonight.  Most people will believe that the Cavs will be do for a bounce back, but I believe that the Raptors gained a lot of confidence and look for that to carry over.  The Cavs as a whole didn't shoot great from the field, but they still knocked down an impressive 14 three pointers.  The Raptors quite frankly are a whole different animal on defense @ home.  I see those three pointers coming down for the Cavs.  Also the Raptors dominated the glass and Biyombo was a handful down low.  I see no reason why they won't dominate the glass again here tonight.  Raptors are 8-1 ATS L9 home games vs team with a winning record.  Cavs are just 1-8-1 ATS L10 following a SU loss by 10 or more points 

WESTERN CONFERENCE TOP PLAY!

I have picked both games right so far to start this series and will be backing the Thunder here tonight.  There is to much credit being given here with the Warriors blow out win over OKC last game.  Curry got hot and the Thunder were cold and couldn't recover from that.  However, the series is tied the Thunder did their part and now will be chomping to take the series lead here.  I expect them to dominate the boards as they have a huge advantage down low and they will shoot a lot better given this is @ home.  Thunder are 5-0 ATS L5 games following a SU loss and are 4-0 ATS following a loss by 10 or more points.  Also the Warriors have struggled in OKC lately going  0-3-1 ATS L4 meetings here.  

TOP EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS PLAY!!!!

I was on the Raptors in Game 2 which was my first loss in 13 games during this hot playoff stretch.  I have no problem backing them here again today.  The line is obviously inflated since the Cavs have covered easily in both games.  This is the do or die situation for the Raptors and I expect Lowry and DeRozan to really step up their game here.  They are generally a really good shooting team but have struggled so far.  No better way to end a slump than to return home.  Cavs are just 3-11 ATS this season after winning 2 straight games by 10 or more points.  Raptors are 7-1 ATS L8 home games vs team with a winning record.  

I look for the Raptors to bounce back here tonight in Game 2.  While I do wish they ave Jonas playing they will give forth a much better effort than the previous game.  The Cavs played with a ton of energy which was no surprise since they had plenty of time off to prepare for game 1.  I don't see them dominating the boards like they did either.  The Raptors also shot 20% from the three point line.  They are a good shooting team and that will go up tonight.  I did have the Cavs in game 1 and everything went perfect as planned for them.  Just like the Warriors last night the Raptors will make adjustments and I see them being very competitive here.  Raptors are 7-3 ATS L10 games following a SU loss 

I backed the Thunder in Game 1 and came away with an easy winner.  I was pretty much spot on with my analysis of that game.  Now I will switch here and lay the number with the Warriors.  First, they simply won't lose here they haven't lost two in row @ home in forever and it won't happen here so that is always a plus.  Westbrook and Durant shot the ball just ok but their bench gave quality minutes and their role players stepped up.  The Thunder shot 47% from three which is highly likely that will come down.  The Thunder grabbed the attention of the Warriors and now I see a huge game out of Klay and Curry with coach Kerr switching things up.  Warriors are 6-1 ATS L7 following an ATS loss.  Home team is 7-1-1 ATS L9 meetings 

I would normally be on the Raptors here with this many points, but there are a few factors here why I believe the Cavs will run away with Game 1.  First, Kyle Lowry made some comments about LeBron not being the best and is just one of the good ones behind Steph.  Comments like that normally come back to haunt them.  Second,  the Cavs have had a ton of time off here while the Raptors are coming off an emotional series vs the Heat winning in 7 games.  That is a huge advantage for the Cavs being well rested and expect that to show during the 2nd half tonight.  The Cavs come out and make a statement tonight.  Raptors are 1-4 ATS L5 road games.  Cavs are 6-2 ATS L8 home games.  Cavs are 12-3 ATS L15 games vs team with a winning % above 60.  Raptors 1-5 ATS L6 games following a SU win

I like the value here with the Thunder in Game 1.  They are coming off an impressive series over the Spurs and believe most people think they are due for a let down.  However as I have been saying all along Durant and Westbrook feel disrespected and they know this is a crucial spot to make statement here as they can't let the Warriors blow them out.  I also love how the big men are playing for Thunder and are controlling the glass which is a huge key for success in defeating the Warriors.  I also wonder if Curry still isn't 100% that he will be able to guard Westbrook for the whole game.  Thunder are 9-2 ATS L11 road games vs a team with a home winning % greater than 60.  Thunder are 5-1 ATS L6 road games.  

I just really see the Raptors winning this game today.  This is a team that is looking to get over the hump and a Game 7 win @ home to make the Eastern Conference Finals would be quite the accomplishment for this team.  When the Raptors shoot it well like they did in Game 5 @home they are a very dangerous team.  With Lowry and DeRozan heating up I really see them taking control of this game and making a statement here today! 

GAME 6 WINNER!

I look for Dwayne Wade to carry the Heat here tonight to victory and force a game 7.  The Heat had an unbelievable come back in Game 4 to force OT and ultimately pull it out.  I really look for Miami to get it going here from the outside shooting where they have struggled so far in this series.  Despite shooting poorly the one Miami does extremely well at all times is defend.  Normally when teams are cold they tend to play lazy on defense, but that isn't the case with this Heat team and I see another strong effort here tonight.  Heat are 10-2 ATS L12 home games.  Heat are 5-2 ATS L7 following an ATS loss. Raptors are 3-8 ATS L11 following an ATS win 

This line to me suggests that the Spurs will win this game, but I believe the odds makers are just giving to much credit here because of their name.  The Thunder didn't do anything that special last game @ San Antonio.  Both teams shot nearly the same from the field and from 3 point distance.  The Thunder did control the boards by 19, but also had 20 turnovers!  To me that is amazing you can have 20 turnovers @ Spurs and come away with a win.  To me this is the Thunder's year as I have mentioned Durant and Westbrook feel disrespected and I see them taking care of business in the close out game.  Spurs are 3-7 ATS L10 road games vs a home team with a winning percentage greater than 60.  Thunder are 30-10-2 ATS L42 home games vs a road team with a winning percentage greater than 60. Strong 74% system play there! 

I'm going to back the Thunder again here tonight taking on the Spurs.  This is just to many points for me to lay getting this far in the NBA playoffs.  The Thunder with Durant and Westbrook want to prove they belong in this greatness conversation that is being dominated by Steph and LeBron.  There are several trends here backing the Thunder strongly as well.  Thunder are 8-3 ATS L11 playing on 1 day rest, Spurs are 2-6 ATS L8 playing on 1 day rest.  Thunder are 5-1 ATS L6 road games vs team with a winning record, Spurs are 1-4 ATS L5 home games vs team with winning record. 

TOP EASTERN CONFERENCE PLAY!

This is great value here with the Heat who have now lost 2 in a row after taking game 1, but now are in a similar spot to the Thunder last night as they can't lose this game to go down 3-1 with next game being @ Toronto.  Last game Miami shot a horrific 22% from the three point which won't happen again.  Why I'm making this a Top Play is centered around Raptors Center Jonas Valanciunas.  He has been a machine this series and isn't getting enough credit here as he has recorded a double double in each game.  From the field he has shot a very impressive 24-37!  He has also done a terrific job on Whiteside down low as well.  Clearly from those numbers Jonas will be missed a ton tonight and they have no one who can fill that void as Bismack Biyombo is next up and he is no scoring threat at all. 

This is an absolute must win for the Thunder here tonight down 2-1 in the series with the next game being @ the Spurs they cant afford to go down 3-1 or else the series is over.  So that is why I expect a big performance out of them here tonight.  The Thunder had more turnovers, less rebounds and were bad from the three point line in Game 3 and I expect that to turn around here tonight.  Also the Thunder hung in there with the Spurs despite them shooting over 50% from the three point line.   Thunder are 11-3 ATS L14 games when their opponent scores 100 points or more in previous game, Spurs are just 4-11 ATS L15 games after scoring a 100 points or more in previous game.  75% SYSTEM PLAY

I was on the Hawks in Game 3 and that was just an awful bad beat with them blowing a huge lead @ home and only scoring 2 points the final 5 minutes of the game.  With the Cavs coming back like that and covering again the betting public will once again be all over them.  I feel like that Hawks will have more pride than to get swept here today and the Cavs could easily just coast through this one then close it out in Game 5 @ home.  Hawks are 14-3 ATS L17 following a double digit loss @ home.  

WESTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFFS GAME OF THE YEAR!

With Curry unlikely to play I believe returning home Portland should have the advantage here given the situation.  The public will be all over the Warriors again since they have covered both games, but Portland will be ready.  Remember last series Portland won all 3 games vs the Clippers on their home court.  They also handed the Warriors their worse loss of the season @ Portland also.  Portland is 9-3 ATS L12 games following a loss by 10 or more points.  

2ND ROUND PLAY OF THE YEAR!

This is simply to great of value to pass up here.  The betting public will want no part of the Hawks here as the Cavs have won the first two games by double digits.  The Cavs in no way will shoot like they have been the past two games. They have made 40 3's in the those two games which is just unbelievable and is also super hard to follow up especially when playing on the road.  I believe they will fall in love with thee jump shot and it won't fall tonight on the Hawks home court.  This is a do or die situation for Atlanta being down 2-0 and they will be ready tonight.  The Cavs are just 2-10 ATS after two straight wins by 10 or more.  Atlanta is 11-2 in home games after failing to cover 4 or 5 of their last 6.  

I was on the Heat in Game 1 and now will be on the Raptors here to even this series back up.  The Heat were 8-11 from the three point line which is hard to back up.  Also, you know the Raptors have made a huge emphasis on the glass on their off day as they were out rebounded by 15! Toronto is also a very good jump shooting team from 3 but  were ice cold going 5-21.  I see no problem for the Raptors to square this back up tonight.  

With the Cavs covering in the first by 11 the betting public will have no problem backing them again tonight.  When you look at the previous games numbers the Cavs should have won going away, but they gave a big lead back to the Hawks in the 4th.  Atlanta shot only 38% from the field and barely over 30% from the three point line and normally they are a lot better.  The Cavs shot 45% from the field and made 15 threes as well.  The Cavs aren't known as a jump shooting team and expect that to come down.  I see the Hawks making it a close one here tonight.  Cavs are 2-5 ATS L7 games after winning by 10 or more 

The Heat are worth a look here as a small dog @ Toronto to begin the 2nd round of the playoffs.  The Raptors have failed to cover in 4 straight games now.  I like the momentum of the Heat right now winning game 6 on the road @ Hornets and blowing them out @ home in game 7 which I had both of those games.  Whiteside to me will be the difference maker here as he will dominate the paint against the Raptors.  Also Toronto has struggled bad on offense shooting under 40% in 3 of their last 4 games.  Raptors are 3-8 ATS L11 playing 1 days rest 

NBA TOP PLAY!

I think it's safe to say that the Spurs have already played their best game in this series and the Thunder have played their worst.  This line is simply an overreaction to Game 1.  The Spurs shot nearly 61% from the field while the Thunder shot barely above 40% and a terrible 26% from the three point line.  Durant and Wesbrook both played what I would consider both their C games if that.  Thunder will be extremely motivated here and wouldn't be surprised to see them win this one.  Spurs are just 2-6 ATS L8 games winning by 10 points or more.  Thunder are 4-1 ATS L5 following a loss of 10 or more.  

The betting public won't have anything to do with the Raptors here as they have lost 2 of 3 and failed to cover 3 in a row.  The Raptors are no doubt the better team here and will show up for Game 7 tonight.  The Raptors were in full control in the first half and just hit a wall shooting in the second half while the Pacers were on fire.  Raptors are 5-1 ATS L6 following a loss. 

GAME 7 TOP PLAY!

I will gladly back the Heat here after winning Game 6 @ the Hornets and taking this into Game 7.  Miami has all the momentum now and won't let what happened in Game 5 happen again here today.  The Hornets are still getting some respect because of that upset but remember back to Games 1 & 2 when Miami completely ran them out of the gym.  I expect the same here today.  Miami is 8-1 ATS L9 home games.  

NBA KNOCKOUT!

I'm going to take the Thunder here tonight vs the Spurs.  I thought this line would be closer to 3 which creates the value in my eyes.  Both the Spurs and Thunder split the regular season wins by winning on each other's home court twice which is rare.  I believe the Spurs are getting to much respect here because of what they did to the Grizzlies in round 1.  To me this game is very important to Thunder to make a statement in game 1 and prove they can beat them in this series.  Both teams are very well rested.  I believe Durant and Westbrook are tired of hearing about them not being able to play together and etc etc.  We all know how good the Spurs are no doubt, but is this the season the age catches up? We will find out in this series.  Thunder are 5-1 ATS L6 games vs team with a winning % over 60 and Spurs are 0-5 ATS L5 games vs team with a winning % over 60.  

This line just looks really inflated here since the Trailblazers won @ the Clippers.  I don't see a blowout happening tonight as the Clippers were in it the whole game last time, they just suffered a cold shooting spell late which was hard to over come.  The Clippers can really slow down the game here make Portland work offensively.  Portland is 9-21 ATS after covering the spread 3 or more games in a row.  Portland is also 0-4 ATS L4 games after scoring 100 points or more. Clippers are 6-2 ATS L8 when their opponent scores 100 points or more.

NBA TOP PLAY!

This series has 7 games written all over it.  The Pacers almost grabbed another win @ Toronto in Game 5 losing by 3.  The Pacers will win here tonight as they probably feel they should be ahead in this series.  Indiana has done a great job of chasing the Raptors off the 3 point line in this series which is big considering how dangerous Lowry and DeRozan can be.  The difference in the last game was that Indiana only forced 7 turnovers while committing 14 themselves.  I like Indiana a lot in this do or die spot tonight.  Pacers are 17-4 ATS L21 games playing on 2 days rest.  Raptors are 2-10 ATS L12 Conference Quarterfinal Games

This is no shock to me that the Hawks are favored here @ Boston even though they were underdogs by 2.5-3 the last two games which they both lost.  I called the blowout for Atlanta last game as it was smooth sailing the whole 2nd half for them.  The Celtics are really missing Avery Bradley right now as their poor shooting is being exposed.  The Hawks will be motivated to end this series tonight and I believe they do so.

This won't be a popular play by any means with the news that everyone is aware of regarding Chris Paul and Blake Griffin.  However, when people are so quick to write a team off usually they really surprise everyone.  I also believe this will play with Portland's head as they may feel like this game will be easy and not come out with the same energy and focus that they should.  Let's also remember the loss of Blake Griffin to me isn't as big as people are making they played almost the whole season without him and actually played better without him people are forgetting that.  So really what you have lost is Paul.  Granted a big loss, but they still have a top 5 coach in the league in Doc Rivers and I expect a big game from his son Austin Rivers tonight.  Portland was destroyed in their first two games here in this series as 8 point dogs now they favored by over 3? Take the Clippers tonight

This game is a lot like the Hawks/Celtics series.  Home team has won every game so far and covered in both those.  The Heat have been in control in my opinion in three of the four games which is what I said about the Hawks last night and they were an easy winner.  The Heat will respond here tonight at home after letting the last game slip away.  Miami also dominated the boards, but lost both games which is rare to see.  They will dominate the glass again and take full advantage of it being back home.  Heat are 7-0 ATS L7 home games vs team with a losing road record.  Hornets are 1-5 ATS L6 road games vs team with a winning home record.  12-1 system play there! 

Well this series has been very entertaining and the home team has won every game.  While the Hawks have only covered once in the 4 games scaring the betting public away from them.  However, when you look back at the games the Hawks actually were in total control of 3 of them.  Game 1 they were up huge and blew the lead but still won.  Game 2 they dominated.  Game 3 Boston was up big time, but Hawks fought back to make it a game.  Game 4 Hawks were in control and blew it late in 4th and lost in OT.  Atlanta is normally a very good 3 point shooting team, but have struggled and it's not because the Celtics are playing tough defense they are just missing open shots.  I look for Atlanta to get out to a big lead and not look back here tonight.  Celtics 2-9 ATS L11 road games vs team with a winning home record.  

LATE NIGHT NBA PLAYOFFS!

I was on Portland Saturday night in their win over the Clippers, but will be against them here tonight.  The Trailblazers got their win and I fully expect the Clippers to play with a lot of urgency to get a 3-1 lead here to try and end this series @ home next game.  The Clippers shot terrible from three point range going 3-18 in Game 3 and that will not happen here tonight.  Griffin was 5-16 and Redick was 2-10 from the field while only Crawford off their bench had more than 4 points.  This will be a better performance all the way around tonight.  Portland is 2-8 ATS L10 following an ATS win 

The Pistons will be trying to avoid the series sweep here today so I expect a really big effort out of them.  This game was really close the other night but the Cavs just pulled away late to cover.  Now this line has gone up since they won by 10.  Pistons are 7-3 ATS L10 games following a double digit loss at home.  Cavs are 9-18 ATS after winning 3 or more consecutive games in a row.  Detroit is also 12-4 ATS revenging a home loss by 10 more. 

This was the series I had going 7 games and like the Celtics again which was my First Round PLay Of The Year Friday night.  Celtics will tie this series back up today.  Boston had a big lead and let t get away from them but managed to hold on.  They still didn't play a great game by any means, but they will be ready again here today.  Hawks are 0-5 ATS L5 road games.  Hawks are 1-6 ATS L7 games after allowing 100 points or more in previous game.

I'm going to go with the Rockets again here today.  I believe there is to much hype in Curry returning.  Not saying the Rockets will win today but getting this many points at home is hard to pass up.  Curry is no doubt a superstar, but I doubt he is worth 6 or more points to the oddsmakers.  They know the betting public will be all over the Warriors with Curry coming back I'm not biting.   Rockets are 20-6 ATS L26 games playing 2 days rest. 

This will be the third and final NBA play today.  Portland is in a similar spot to the Hornets and Pacers as well.  They are coming off two blowout losses but now return home.  This team shoots a lot of 3's and actually do a great job of knocking them down.  They have been ice cold so far in this series and expect that to change here tonight.  Portland is 8-2 ATS L10 games following a double digit loss.  Clippers 2-8 ATS L10 games playing on 2 days rest.   

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY!

I'm backing the Hornets here again tonight who are obviously in a must win spot if they want this series to continue.  The Hornets have been a very good home going 30-11 this year.   I simply can't trust the eat here who have been shooting lights out in both games so far. Shooting over 57% for two straight games is difficult there is no way they can do it a third game. Heat are 1-6 ATS L7 road games and Hornets are 11-4 ATS L15 games following a double digit loss.    

This is a do or die situation for the Pacers here tonight.  I believe they will respond here big time following an ugly loss the other night by double digits. The Pacers shot under 40% for the game and a terrible 27% from the 3pt line.  Those numbers won't happen again here tonight. Pacers are 4-1 ATS L5 home games following a double digit loss.  Raptors are 2-8 ATS L10 Conference Quarterfinal Games.

NBA FIRST ROUND PLAY OF THE YEAR!

This is a an absolute must win for the Celtics here as they have played just terrible in the first two games.  They have yet to shoot over 40% from the field, but return home here tonight and this team will have a ton of fight in them.  This Celtics team is no joke and Brad Stevens has done a terrific job this season.  This is a perfect spot for a nice bounce back here tonight.  I really love the Celtics in this spot.  

I backed the Rockets in Game 2 and they covered.  To me it's now or never for this team.  I expect them to bounce back here @ home after hearing about how bad they are on defense.  Also another key here is Curry, gut feeling is that he sits out tonight.  The Rockets are averaging over 20 turnovers in the first two games expect that to be cleaned up big time.  I simply trust the Rockets to have a lot more fight than what they have shown so far 

The Pacers have the chance now to really take control of this series.  Paul George is playing great basketball and expect a couple teammates to step up tonight and help him get the W.  The series is tied up here and Indiana hasn't played good either game when you look at the stats.  I see tonight being a big breakout game returning home.  Pacers are 8-2 ATS L10 games following a SU loss.  Raptors are 3-7 ATS L10 games following a SU win.  

I look for the Cavs to come out extremely focused here tonight as the Pistons gave them all they wanted in Game 1.  The Pistons shot nearly 51% from the field and I don't see that happening again.  Also the Pistons hit 15 threes which is extremely difficult and hard to follow up on.  The Cavs will step up their pressure here tonight and make things very difficult for the young Pistons tonight.  

Everything went perfect for the Heat in game 1 and the public will be all over them again here.  However, the Heat shot 57% from the field which was their 2nd highest percentage going back over a month ago.  They also shot 50% from the three point line, so clearly it will be hard for them to repeat the performance. I see the Hornets bouncing back here tonight and stealing one @ Miami.  

This may seem like a big number considering they just lost by 10 in Game 1.  The Raptors will be ready tonight rebounding from a bad performance.  Lowry and DeRozan shot a combined 8-32 from the field including just 1-10 from three.  They both won't be off again like that tonight.  Also the Pacers hit 11 threes shooting 52% from the three point line which will be difficult to back up.  The Pacers are just 2-10 ATS L12 meetings so don't be surprised to see the Raptors dominate from start to finish.  Also the Raptors hold a big rebounding advantage against Indiana 

I like the Hornets to win this series.  They have been absolutely on fire the 2nd half of the season and aren't getting enough credit here.  The Hornets won @ Miami on March 17th despite the Heat shooting 53% for the game.  The pace of the play here will be very slow and I believe that will favor the Hornets in this game.  Hornets are 10-4 ATS L14 games after winning by 10 or more points 

The Pistons are no push over here for the Cavs.  The Pistons just won @ Cavs last game of the season and that was without Cleveland's best players in Love Kyrie and LeBron.  Since they are back I believe we are seeing a big over reaction to them being back.  The Pistons didn't play their best players either in Drummond KCP Harris Jackson and Morris.  I see the Pistons being able to really clog things up in the middle here and keep it close.  The Pistons won 3 of the 4 meetings during regular season and are 8-2 ATS L10 meetings @ Cavs.  

I like the value here with the Celtics tonight vs the Hawks.  They will be out for revenge after losing a week ago @ Atlanta.  Atlanta won by 11 but in large part was because they made 17 three pointers.  I highly doubt that happens here tonight with how good of defense the Celtics play.  Atlanta only wins by an average of 6 @ home so with it getting very tight and the pace slowing down I see it favoring the Celtics 

I look for the young Suns to rebound here and get the win pretty easily tonight vs the Clippers.  The Clippers are sitting their whole starting 5 and with them playing last night and having an easy win I don't see them having any interest in tonight's game.  The guys that will be playing aren't use to playing this many minutes and they will obviously have a very short bench.  Suns are 6-0 ATS L6 games following an ATS loss. 

The Celtics have lost two games in a row both by double digits, but this game is still a big one for them.  They would tie the Heat and still have a chance for the 3 seed.  Seeds 3-6 are still up for grabs in the Eastern Conference and I expect a huge bounce back from the Celtics tonight after losing an ugly home game to the Hornets last out.  The Heat are coming off a hard fought win last night @ Detroit.  Miami just 1-6 ATS L7 road games and that was last night and are 0-4 ATS L4 on 0 days rest.  

I have no problem backing the Mavs here who right now sit in the 6th spot in the Western Conference, but are tied with the Grizzlies.  So this is a must win game for the Mavs so they can avoid the Spurs or the Warriors in the first round of the playoffs.  The Spurs are sitting a bunch of players again after coming back and beating the Thunder in OT last night.  I don't see them getting up for this at all.  Huge motivation edge goes to the Mavs here tonight.  Spurs are just 1-9 ATS L10 games and are 2-7 ATS L9 games playing on 0 days rest. 

I see the young Bucks giving a good effort here tonight vs the Pacers who will be without Paul George.  The Pacers played last night and played very hard with their playoff fate now in order I don't much of an effort from them here tonight.  The Bucks played very hard their last game being down 20 @ the Magic late in the 3rd quarter and fought all the way to back to get down 4 points so I really like the effort they are still giving here.  Pacers are 1-7 ATS L8 games following a win by 10 or more points 

I see the Pistons responding tonight after losing a tight game vs the Heat last night.  With Love Kyrie and LeBron all out the Cavs have a terrible bench and there is no motivation for them what so ever to win this game.  I believe Van Gundy will have them ready as he wants to build their confidence going into the playoffs.  Pistons are without Jackson again but they have a way better team than the Cavs are putting out there tonight.  

NBA TOP PLAY!

I really like the value here we are getting with the Pistons in their final home game of the season.  The Pistons have been a nice surprise making the playoffs and are tied with the Pacers for the 7th and 8th seed.  That is very crucial as they will want to avoid the Cavs first round.  The Pistons have also had 3 days off and this is the Heat's 4th game in 6 game.  Heat are just 1-6 ATS L7 road games.  

This may seem like a lot of points for the Suns as the betting public won't have anything to do with them, but the Kings are coming off a win over Thunder which I believe they are content with going into the off season.  There is no reason for them to get up for this game and also the have shut down Cousins and without him they have been terrible.  Kings are 7-19 ATS L26 games vs a team with a winning % below 40.  Suns are 18-7 ATS L25 games following a win of 10 points or more 

Utah is in a must win spot here tonight vs the Mavs.  Both teams are playing their 2nd of a back to back.  The Mavs are coming off a loss @ the Clippers and while they are fighting for the playoffs they still are pretty comfortable.  The Jazz can't simply afford to lose at all being only 1 game up on the Rockets for the 8th seed.  They had an impressive win by 16 @ Denver yesterday which I had and will back them again tonight.  This is a young team that has fought very hard all season to get into this position and see no reason why they can't pull away from the Mavs.  Mavs are still getting a lot of respect because of their 6 game winning streak prior to last night.  

This is another situation where both teams are playing their 2nd of a back to back.  The Magic played their rival the Heat without Oladipo and Gordon plus it was a revenge game from the Magic just beating them and Miami blew them out which is why I like this young Magic team who has been playing very well prior to last night were 5-2 L7 games.  Oladipo and Gordon should also be back which is 2 starters for them.  The Bucks played @ Sixers and won in OT by 1 point.  I just don't see them responding tonight.  I also question where Middleton will play since yesterday they said he was out then he played so I have a hunch he might sit as well.  Magic are 8-2 ATS L10 following an ATS loss.  Bucks are 0-4 ATS L4 after allowing 100 points or more

I like the Jazz here tonight to bounce back against the Nuggets who are coming off a win over the Spurs, but that is with the Spurs resting players.  The Jazz have all the motivation here as they are fighting a playoff spot and are only 1 game ahead of the Rockets for the 8 seed.  The Jazz are 10-1 ATS L11 games vs team with a losing record.  Nuggets are 1-5 ATS L6 games vs team with a losing record. 

This won't be a popular play with the Clippers coming off a big road win @ Utah as a double digit underdog.  They have nothing to play for here in this game and are fully expected to sit a bunch of players.  Meanwhile, the Mavs have everything to play for as they are fighting for a playoff spot but still have a chance to get the 5 seed with Portland losing last night.  The Mavs have won 6 in a row and expect a large effort this afternoon 

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY!

This line is a huge over reaction to the Bulls struggles.  While it's very likely they miss the playoffs I still expect them to compete and give the Cavs a game today.  The Bulls were actually favored by 4 this year @ home.  The Cavs have nothing to play for as the #1 seed is theirs.  The Bulls are 5-2 ATS L7 meetings.  Cavs are 1-7-1 ATS L9 following a loss of 10 points or more.  

I like the Celtics here tonight getting the points.  This is a team that Brad Stevens has playing really good ball winning 4 in a row.  This games means a lot to each team as they are battling for the 3 seed in the Eastern Conference.  That is huge because that means they would avoid the Cavs until Eastern Conference Finals.  The Celtics are the best team in basketball playing a 2nd of a back to back going 40-16-1 ATS L57 games on 0 days rest.  

The Spurs are resting everyone tonight so clearly they are showing they don't have much interest in this game.  While the Spurs do have very good bench this is hard for those bench players in this situation since they will be logging a lot more minutes than usually.  The young Nuggets will be up for the game tonight.

This is actually a very big game that will go under the radar.  The Mavs are only 2 games back of the Grizz and are looking to climb in the playoff race to avoid the Spurs and Warriors first round.  The Grizz are being over valued here due to their win over the Bulls.  Like the Mavs to pull away here as they have won 5 in a row.  

I'm going to go with the Magic here tonight.  The Heat are coming off a big win last ngiht over the Bulls and the Magic are come in off a loss vs the Pistons.  I realize every game counts for Miami now but this is the first of a home and home and the Magic will have plenty of motivation here to beat their in state rival.  Heat are 0-4 ATS L4 road games.  

I'm taking the Warriors here for a couple reasons.  One I'm not sure that Coach Pop will play everyone tonight.  Also the Warriors will be focused here tonight as clearly they had no interest in playing the T Wolves the other night.  Warriors beat the Spurs by 30 earlier this season when they played @ Golden St.  I like the Warriors to bounce back in a big way here tonight.  Spurs are 2-12 ATS L14 following a SU win and are 1-5 ATS L6 road games vs team with a winning home record.  

This is a perfect spot here to back the Kings as short home favorites over the Timberwolves.  Minnesota comes into this game beating the Warriors as 14 point underdogs and are due for a major let down here tonight.  There is no way the T Wolves will bring the intensity like they did vs the Warriors.  The Kings have been playing pretty good as of late as well they have covered 6 of their last 7.  When you look back at Minnesota they won @ Thunder then followed that up by losing at Suns.  Clearly that aren't capable of back that performance up.  Kings are 4-0 ATS L4 games vs a team with losing record.  T Wolves are 0-4 ATS L4 games vs team with losing record.  

Both of these teams played on the road last night and both came away with wins.  This is a similar spot to what the Pacers are facing tonight.  This game means nothing to the Thunder as they have locked in the 3 seed.  Portland, however this game means a lot as they could get the 5th seed from Memphis but if they lose they could go to a 7 seed.  Portland has already beat the Thunder @ home this year and see no reason why they won't do it again tonight given the circumstances.  Thunder are 2-5 ATS L7 games after allowing 100 points in and Portland is 17-7 ATS L24 games after allowing 100 points previous game.  

This is a huge game for both teams as both are fighting their playoff lives.  Houston is coming off a big win which I had over the Thunder and now faces a Mavs team who has won 4 in row.  I actually believe the Mavs need this more when looking at the remaining schedule.  After this they have road games @ Clippers and Jazz and also play the Spurs.  A loss here would pretty much know them out.  The Rockets have 4 games left after tonight against 4 bad teams in the Suns Lakers Kings and T Wolves.  So a loss for them tonight wouldn't be the end.  Rockets are 0-5 ATS L5 following a SU win and Mavs are 4-1 ATS L5 following a SU win 

This is a great spot to back the Pacers tonight vs the Cavs.  Cavs are coming off a blowout win last night vs the Bucks and now travel to rival Indiana.  The Pacers are a very desperate team right now fighting for the playoffs coming off of two road wins and having @ Toronto next they can't afford to lose tonight.  Indiana as had two days off and are 14-3 ATS L17 games playing on 2 days rest and the Pacers have are 5-0-1 ATS L6 meeting vs the Cavs.  Take the Pacers here tonight they will have a huge game 

I'm going to take the Kings here tonight as I feel like this game should be at least a PK or even the Kings favored.  Portland is coming off a hard fought game @ the Warriors and now will have to bounce back, but they have a huge look ahead with the Thunder.  The Kings are coming off a nice upset win @ Denver and I say upset because they rested their better players.  I believe the Kings will respond here tonight and get revenge on Portland just beat them by double digits on March 28th.  Portland has just 1 road win SU in last 10 games and that was @ the Pelicans who have injuries everywhere.  

I like the Jazz here tonight as they are still fighting for a playoff in the Western Conference.  A big question mark lies with what the Spurs will do for tonight's game.  Coach Pop has been on record resting his players late in the year and with the Warriors on deck I wouldn't be surprised if he chose to do that tonight.  The Spurs have nothing to play for here tonight while the Jazz have everything.  I expect a huge effort from this young team tonight.  They won't let this game get away like they did vs the Warriors.  Jazz are 9-2 ATS L11 home games vs a team with a winning road record.  

We are getting good value here with the Heat @ home tonight.  They are coming off a blowout loss @ Portland, but Wade sat out that game.  Why this line is low is because Wade is questionable for tonight's game.  To me it doesn't matter if he plays or not I would still back the Heat.  This is a huge game for both teams as the Pistons are looking to make the playoffs while the Heat have a chance for the 3 seed.  The Pistons are coming off a an upset win @ Chicago and are getting respect because of that.  Heat are 5-0 ATS L5 games following a loss of 10 or more points 

NCAAB CHAMPIONSHIP GAME!

With both teams blowing out their opponent in the Final Four the Tarheels are getting a little to much respect.  I thought this game would be closer to a pick em.  Nova is playing the best basketball out of anybody by far in the tournament.  The  way they play defense will be unlike anything UNC has seen a long the way.  I realize UNC has blown some teams out as well, but they are no where near the caliber that Nova has played.  Nova easily handled Iowa who was a Top 10 most of the season, then easily beat down Miami another quality team,  then beat Kansas by 5 playing a sub par game for them and flat out destroyed Oklahoma.  Nova's guards have been the best all tournament and there is no reason why they won't be UNC.  Also UNC isn't known for defense as I said the match ups they have had played right into their hands.  

This won't be a popular play, but the Lakers are in a very good spot here.  They are coming off a big upset win over the Heat and have had 3 days off since that win.  The Celtics couldn't be more overvalued because they did something no other team had done this year and that was beating the Warriors @ Golden St.  It's very difficult to bounce back from a game like that and expect a let down here.  Celtics are just 2-7 ATS L9 road games. 

The Magic are playing very well right now late in the season winning 3 of their last 4 but their last game was a tough spot being a 2nd of a back to back.  I see the Magic responding here tonight with the Grizzlies who keep on slipping.  The Grizz have lost 5 in a row and with how banged up they are with injuries everywhere I see them losing again tonight.  Magic are 5-1 ATS L6 home game vs team with a losing road record.  

I look for the Rockets to bounce back here Sunday vs the Thunder.  The Thunder have nothing to play for here as they are locked into the 3 seed for the playoffs.  The Rockets have everything to play for as if the season ended today they would be out of the playoffs.  Falling 2 games back would be very difficult this late in the season to make the playoffs.  I like the Rockets to bounce back from a tough loss vs the Bulls on Thursday night.  The Rockets seem to give the Thunder great games as they are 5-0 ATS L5 games 

Portland comes in off a very impressive victory over the Celtics Thursday night and are still fighting for a playoff spot as they are only 2 games ahead for the 8th seed.  You can't afford to lose home games late in the year.  I'm not so worried about the look ahead with the Warriors tomorrow night as they will give a max effort here knowing they probably lose @ Warriors.  The Heat played last night and blew a big lead in the 4th.  They will once again be without Wade and Bosh tonight and I think this will be hard for them to play back to back with a limited bench.  Portland is 8-3 ATS L11 games vs team with winning record. 

CENTRAL DIVISION GAME OF THE YEAR!

The Bulls come into this game winning two hard games on the road @ Indiana & @ Houston.  Generally yes, you would play against a small favorite coming home in this situation, but the Bulls can't afford to lose anymore games if they wanna make the playoffs.  The Bulls have 3 road games in a row after this game tonight so if they were to lose it would knock them out of the playoffs.  The line is low here since Rose is out for the Bulls.  I actually like how the Bulls play without Rose anyways.    

FINAL FOUR GAME OF THE YEAR!

I love the line we are getting here with Villanova.  The Wildcats aren't getting enough respect here as they have simply been unstoppable in the tourney.  They beat Iowa by 19, Miami by 23 and Kansas by 5.  When you look at the stats vs Kansas though it shows how good the Wildcats are.  Kansas shot 46% while Villanova shot 40%, Kansas also out rebounded them, had more assists and made more 3's yet Nova wins by 5.  Oklahoma is going to the the public's choice and why this line is low is simply because of Buddy Hield.  He is a great player no doubt about it, but he will have his hands full tonight as Nova by far has the best guards in tournament.  They play lock down defense and will make Hield earn everything.  They won't be getting many open looks like they did vs Oregon who has young guards.  OU will have a tough time guarding Nova as well as their guards can really penetrate and dish.  

We are getting really good value here with the Celtics who I lost with last night, but have no problem backing them on a back to back as they are one of the best teams in the league ATS in this situation with a 39-16-1 ATS record on 0 days rest.  The Warriors were very lucky the other night @ Utah and somehow they covered which is why this line is high.  The Celtics are still one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference and they have a lot to play for with seeds 3-6 being a toss up.  The Warriors have locked up the #1 seed since the Spurs will be resting their guys for remainder of season.  I know the Warriors are trying to break the record, but this will be their 7th game in 12 days.  

The Heat are coming off a terrible loss @ Lakers the other night and will be the more motivated and focused team here tonight.  The Kings are coming off a nice win over the Wizards which I had, but they caught them in a good spot as the Wizards were on a back to back.  The Heat actually have a lot to play for with the seeds 3-6 being to tight in the Eastern Conference.  Also at the end of the game vs the Wizards Cousins received a technical which puts him out for tonight's game and that is a huge loss for them.  The Heat will have no problem exposing them in the paint tonight.  Heat are 20-7 ATS L27 road games vs home team with a losing record.   

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY!

I like the value here we are getting with the Bucks.  The Magic have had 3 blowout wins in a row including an impressive one last night @ Indiana as a big underdog.  This will be a tough spot for them tonight on a back to back which is giving us the value with Milwaukee.  I was on the Bucks last game vs the Suns and was very impressed that when the Suns came all the way back Milwaukee didn't fold and in fact they battled back to win by double digits.  Jason Kidd will not let this young team quit and this is a perfect spot for them at a short price tonight. 

I don't think the average fan will realize it, but the Celtics have a lot to play for here.  They sit in 4th place currently tied with the Heat and Hornets, but are only 1 game back of the 3rd spot.  Getting the 3 seed is crucial as that means that would avoid the Cavs until the conference finals.  With the Celtics coming off an ugly performance vs the Clippers and have had two days off I see a max effort here tonight.  Portland has won two in a row, but over the Sixers and Kings nothing to be impressed about.  The Celtics have played very well in Portland going 8-2 ATS L10 meetings.  Portland is also just 1-5 ATS L6 games following a SU win.  

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY!

As the season continues to come to an end the Bulls find themselves still 2 games behind the Pacers after beating them last game.  This line is very inflated as the Rockets are coming off a crazy comeback @ Cleveland, but that was without LeBron.  I honestly question if the Cavs are even a playoff team without LeBron so I'm not very impressed with that.  The Bulls won't be getting much love because of their recent play, but they still have everything to play for here and every game is a must win now in order to make the playoffs.  Rockets are 0-4 ATS L4 games following a SU win and are just 2-6 ATS L8 home games.  

We are getting really good value here with Valparaiso as George Washington is coming off a blowout win which was my NIT Play Of The Year.  Valparaiso should have been in the tournament and they are making a strong case why throughout the NIT so far.  With wins over Florida St St St Mary's and BYU it's really impressive.  Their defense has been flawless as Florida St shot the highest % in the last 3 games, but they were only 40% from the field.  Valpo will control the game prove to everyone why they belonged in the tournament.  

LATE NIGHT SPECIAL 

I really like the value we are getting here with Kings.  I actually thought they would be favored in this one.  This is a very difficult spot for the Wizards playing their 3rd road game in 4 days and 2nd of a back to back.  Coming off an extremely hard fought game vs the Warriors where they gave everything they had.  It's hard to bring that intensity to a game like this.  The Kings lost by 12 their last game, but is very misleading as they rested Rondo Gay and Cousins.  So their 3 main players have ad two days off. Prior to the rest taking place they did win two straight.  Don't let the close game last night with Warriors fool ya I see the Kings taking advantage of a tired team here.  

The Jazz have been a great surprise this season and wouldn't be shocked if they pull the upset tonight over the Warriors.  If you remember when the Warriors played @ Utah earlier they had to come back from a big hole and won by 3.  The Jazz remember that all to well.  This will be the Warriors 6th game in 10 days and 2nd of a back to back.  The Jazz will have plenty of motivation as they will be trying extra hard to make the playoffs as they are currently in the 7th spot, but one loss could knock them down to 9.  The Jazz have won 4 of 5 and 8 of 10 with both losses on road @ Bulls and @ Thunder nothing to hand your head on.  Jazz are 9-1 ATS L10 home games vs team with a winning road record.  Home team is 5-0 ATS L5 meetings 

This is all about the motivation here for these two teams.  The Knicks laid an absolute egg @ Pelicans which is telling me they are done for the year.  The Pelicans team has so many injuries and yet the Knicks could have cared less.  The Mavs, however have a lot to play for.  This is a must win game here to stay in the playoff picture with Utah and Houston.  Knicks are 4-10 ATS L14 games playing on 1 days rest and Prozingis is doubtful for tonight as well.  Mavs played hard last game @ Denver and will do the same tonight 

The Bucks are coming off an ugly loss to the Hornets @ home and I expect them to bounce back here tonight after having 3 days off.  This is a young team and I don't believe Jason Kidd will allow these guys to call it quits for the season.  Also the Bucks have lost 5 in a row, but all 5 of those were to playoff teams.  The Suns gave a lot of effort in making a comeback @ Minnesota, but I don't see them having any interest in tonight's game.  The Suns are a terrible road team going     7-30 SU.  The Bucks are 9-1 ATS L10 games after losing 2 in a row by double digits or more.  Suns are 3-11 ATS in road games after allowing 110 points previous game.  Suns are also 11-22 ATS when being a road underdog this season.

NBA TOP PLAY!

I'm backing the Raptors here as they are coming off an ugly loss to the Thunder where they were just outplayed from the get go in that game.  Atlanta is coming off a nice road win @ Chicago and have won 9 out of their L10 which is why we are getting a short price here.  Tough spot for the Hawks as they have the Cavs coming to town next and are due for a let down here after a nice win over the Bulls.  The Raptors will be highly motivated and will need a win to keep the Hawks away from stealing their #2 seed in the East.  The Raptors have won all 3 meetings this year and with 3 of their next 4 on the road I expect them to take care of business again 

NIT PLAY OF THE YEAR!

Odds makers are giving to much credit to San Diego St as they have covered easily in their 3 NIT games.  I have been very impressed with GW and who they have played/beat to get here.  They won @ Monmouth then followed that up by beating Florida.  Let's also take not the George Washington is a school that is right in the heart of Washington DC and many of their kids grow up wanting to play in Madison Square Garden.  I see GW really wanting to make a statement here playing in front of what will be a home crowd compared to San Diego St.  

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY!

I was against the Thunder last night and will be against them again here as they are playing their 2nd of a back to back.  The Raptors were flat out horrible last night and the Thunder lights out.  The Pistons have a lot to fight for here as they are trying to get in the playoffs.  Also the Thunder do have the Clippers on deck making this spot a little bit harder as well.  The Pistons have had two days off and coming off an ugly home loss vs the Hawks.  They will be the more motivated team here tonight and you can't trust the Thunder to cover two in a row on the road with a road ATS of 12-21

This is another game where I like the spot.  The Nets are still getting some respect because of their wins over the Cavs and Pacers.  Now they are playing their 2nd in a back to back and have the Cavs on deck again.  The Magic had a nice win over the Bulls Saturday night, but the public won't be giving them any credit due to the Bulls recent struggles.  Also the Magic have had two days of rest and are getting Oladipo and Vucevic back tonight as well.  Nets are 1-5 ATS L6 games playing on 0 days rest.  Magic are 14-2 ATS after playing a home game as an underdog.  

This may look like a big number since both teams have bad records, but I see Minnesota controlling this one from the start.  The home team has won and covered in their 3 meetings this year, but the Timberwolves absolutely destroyed the Suns @ Minnesota earlier by 30 as 4 point favorites.  The T Wolves lost @ the Suns 2 weeks ago but that was only by 3 points.  Minnesota hasn't gave up on their season since they are a young team.  They did beat the Kings @ home as 4 point favorites who are better than the Suns and also won in double OT @ the Wizards.  The Suns are 2-3 their L5 games but both wins came against the Lakers so not very impressive.  Suns are 1-8 ATS L9 road games vs team with a losing home record.  

EASTERN CONFERENCE PLAY OF THE YEAR

The Bulls aren't getting any respect here due to their 3 game skid which including 2 losses to the Knicks and a terrible performance @ Orlando in getting blown out.  The Bulls are still without a doubt one of the most talented teams in the league.  They currently sit in the 9th spot and this is an absolute must win game for them as 5 out of their next 6 are on the road.  This will be the Hawks 4th game in 6 days and have the Raptors and Cavs looking ahead for them.  I just can't street enough how crucial this game is for the Bulls and they will have a max effort here vs the Hawks who have beat them 3 times already but won't make it a 4th!  Take the Bulls here you won't be disappointed 

NON CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH!

The Thunder have been playing better but I was very surprised to see them favored @ Toronto who is a very good home team.  The Thunder have won 7 in a row but most of those were to lesser teams and the Spurs win doesn't count as a quality win since they rested their whole team.  The Raptors are getting ready to make a big playoff run this year and will be up for the Thunder tonight.  The Thunder are also terrible on the road vs the spread,  as they are 11-21 ATS on the road.  The Raptors are 6-0 ATS L6 home games vs team with a winning record and have a home record of 28-8.

NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

I like this spot to back the Pacers as they are coming off a bad loss last night vs the Nets while the Rockets are coming off a big win @ home over the Raptors.  Rockets 0-4 AS L4 after scoring 100 or more and have lost 3 consecutive road games.  Pacers are 5-1 ATS L6 following a SU loss 

I think Virginia picks up where they left off.  Syracuse is very lucky to even have won their last game and made a great comeback in doing so.  Syracuse will struggle to score as I am very high on Virginia's defense.  These two teams are familiar with each other as Virginia swept them during the regular season and will make it 3 in a row tonight.  

Both of these teams play last night in losing efforts.  Hornets made a crazy comeback @ Detroit late but just ran out of time.  The Bucks will be playing their 5th game in seven days and are coming off 3 road games as well.  The motivation here will be with the Hornets as they are right in the middle of the Eastern Conference playoff race.  Bucks are 3-7 ATS L10 home games vs team with a losing record.  Play against home underdogs after playing 2 consecutive road games and playing on back to back days  64%! 

TOP NBA PLAY!

This is really a do or die spot here for the Bulls as they dropped two games in a row to the Knicks and have fell out of the 8 spot by 2 games.  They simply can't afford another loss here with the Hawks coming to town followed by two tough road games.  The Bulls didn't play last night while the Magic had a hard fought game vs division rival Miami.  The Magic aren't playing well themselves as they have lost 6 in a row.  Bulls are 5-2 ATS L7 games after losing by 10 or more the previous games.  The Bulls also return Gasol to the lineup and the Magic could be without Oladipo and llyasova.  

I really think Oregon is on a mission here.  They still aren't get the respect they deserve, but this team has a legit chance to win it all.  I can't remember the last time a #1 seed that wasn't in the headlines as they aren't.  The Ducks have a ton of guards that will match up well with the Sooners. Oklahoma will get a lot of love because of Buddy Hield, but he will have to work for everything tonight.  Both teams shot 49.2% last game and won by 14 however, A&M shot terrible as they were 34% from the field while Duke shot 44%.  That is very impressive to win by 14 while the other team is shooting nearly the same percentage as you.  Ducks will force tough shots and control the glass again tonight