My 9* NCAAF Week 1 Marquee is on Clemson at 7:30 ET.

The No.3-ranked Clemson Tigers take on the No. 5-ranked Georgia Bulldogs Saturday night for the Duke's Mayo Classic in Charlotte. It marks the first meeting between the two regional rivals since 2014, Saturday night's prime time showdown has been eagerly anticipated since being announced last year that ESPN's "College GameDay" will be on hand. Clemson is coming off a 10-2 season that ended with a 49-28 loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Sugar Bowl, while Georgia went 8-2 last season, capping its campaign with a 24-21 win over Cincinnati in the Peach Bowl.

This game is being played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, where Clemson has won the last four ACC championship games. Here's a list:

34-10 over Notre Dame. 62-17 over Virginia. 42-10 over Pittsburgh. 38-3 over Miami-Fl.

Nick Saban's success at Alabama is unmatched but in "second-place" is Clemson's Dabo Swinney. He has led Clemson to 10-plus wins in 10 consecutive seasons and the Tigers have made the 'Final 4' in the last six CFP, winning national titles in 2016 and 2018. Clemson is the ONLY team the in the country to make the playoff each of the last six years. This will be Clemson's first game in years without the record-setting tandem of QB Trevor Lawrence and RB Travis Etienne, both of whom were selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round of the NFL draft last spring. However, don't 'cry' for the Tigers. There are NO worries about DJ Uiagalelei taking over at QB. Filling in for Lawrence last season, he passed for 342 yards in his first career start against BC and then followed that by passing for 439 yards at Notre Dame (most passing yards ND has ever allowed to an opposing QB). 5 TDs and zero INTs in 117 attempts for the season. Clemson has a crowded RB situation with senior Lyn-J Dixon the most experienced of the bunch. However, true freshmen Will Shipley and Phil Mafah were so impressive in fall camp that they could see considerable playing time. As for Clemson's defense, it returns NINE of 11 starters and boasts one of the most imposing front lines in the country.

Georgia's defensive front is expected to rank among the nation's best. The Bulldogs led the country in rushing defense last year after finishing among the national leaders in that category in 2019. However, Georgia's defensive secondary will be breaking in three new starters. Much is being made of JT Daniels at QB for Georgia. He started the final four games last season and threw for 1,231 yards (67.2%) with 10 TDs and 2 INTs. However, his regular season wins came over Miss St, South Carolina and Missouri (combined regular season record of 10-20). Georgia did beat Cincy in Peach Bowl 24-21 but needed to outscore them 14-0 in the 4th-quarter. The game-winner came on a 53-yard FG with THREE seconds left!

Here's a great quote by an opposing coach about Georgia. "The Bulldogs are consistent and talented but are still figuring out how to become elite." Kirby Smart is in his 6th season at Georgia, going 52-14. This just in! He's NO Dabo Swinney. Let's look at his last four years.

2017: won SEC champ game over Auburn but then suffered a heartbreaking 26-23 loss (OT) to Alabama in the national championship game. 2018: lost SEC champ game to Ala, blowing a 14-point lead. 2019: got routed 37-10 in SEC champ game by LSU. 2020: lost 41-24 at #2 Alabama as #3 team and then as #5 team, got crushed by Fla (#8) 44-28 in to biggest regular season meetings.

Where's the team's "big game" win under Smart? Georgia has won SEVEN straight season openers but its last loss in a season opener came 2013. The school that beat them? You guessed it, Clemson. Smart and Georgia once again come up sort in a "Big Game!"

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on UTSA at 7:30 ET

I say the Illini have a letdown here after their 30-22 upset victory to kick off the season at home over favored Wisconsin last Saturday (note: Illinois last beat Nebraska in back-to-back years in 1923-24).

UTSA finished 7-5 last year and made it to a bowl game, ultimately falling 31-24 to Louisiana.

Illinois finished 2-6 last year. Head coach Lovie Smith was fired after seven games (note: The Illini last posted a winning season in 2011!). But after their improbable 30-22 win over the Huskers, can anyone say "letdown" spot here? Illinois starting QB Brandon Peters left the game holding his left (non-throwing) shoulder after being sacked hard near the end of the first quarter. He was 3-of-4 passing for 35 yards. He did not return and was replaced by Artur Sitkowski, a sophomore transfer from Rutgers, who went 12-of-15 for 124 yards and two scores. Peters' status is up in the air for Saturday's game and I think it may be too much to expect that Sitkowski will match his effort vs Nebraska.

The Road Runners have plenty of talent, and they've excelled in this spot for bettors, going 7-2 ATS in their last nine as an underdog and 7-2 ATS in their last nine on the road.

UTSA has a potent and underrated offense that returns most of its core group of players (a unit that averaged 415 yards and 28 PPG last year.) Sincere McCormick is a dominant RB that keeps defenses honest and the entire offensive line returns as well.

Illinois gave up 232 years on the ground last week, which doesn't bode well facing this run-first Road Runners attack.

 With Maryland at home next, followed by a trip to Purdue, this is also a letdown/look-ahead spot for the home side.

While I do in fact feel an outright upset is possible again on this field for a second straight week, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can.

The play is UTSA.

Good luck...Larry

My free play is on Iowa at 3:30 ET.

This is a big season-opener for two BIG TEN teams that are hoping to contend in their respective divisions in 2021. Indiana head coach Tom Allen has made a HUGE difference to the football program, as after back-to-back 5-7 (2-7 in Big Ten play) seasons in 20107 and 2018, he's led the Hoosiers to back-to-back bowl games. Indiana went 8-5 in 2019 and 6-2 in 2020's pandemic-shortened season. The Hoosiers were 6-1 SU and 7-0 ATS in Big Ten play but then lost to a 4-5 Ole Miss team 26-20 (as a 9 1/2-point favorite) in the Outback Bowl. Iowa's Kirk Ferentz arrived in Iowa City way back in 1999 and after going 1-10 and 3-9 in his first two seasons, has been a steady, consistent winner. The Hawkeyes opened 2020 with back-to-back losses (by 4 points and one point) but then won SIX in a row, going 5-1 ATS with an average MOV of 21.8 PPG. Iowa earned an 18th bowl bid under Ferentz in 2020 but the Music City Bowl was canceled due to COVID.

Indiana opens the season ranked 17th (the school's first top-25 preseason appearance since 1969), while Iowa is the AP's 18th-ranked team. Indiana QB Michael Penix Jr is back healthy after missing the Hoosiers' last two games of 202 because of a torn ACL in his right knee. He had 14 TDPs and just four INTs last season and let me point out that Indiana is 10-2 the last two seasons when Penix starts at QB and 4-5 when other QBs start. Eight starters return on offense and NINE on a defense that allowed a modest 20.3 PPG. Iowa QB Spencer Petras bounced back from throwing three INTs in a loss to Northwestern in the second game last year to lead the Hawkeyes on that six-game losing streak. During the team's winning streak, Petras threw eight TDPs and just two INTs. I noted Indiana's solid defense above but throughout his career at Iowa, Ferentz has been known for his excellent defensive units. Last season was no different, as Iowa allowed just 16.0 PPG and has not allowed more than 20.0 PPG in any of its last FIVE seasons. Note: Iowa has played 22 straight games without surrendering 25 points, the longest streak of any Power-5 school!

Iowa and Indiana are meeting as ranked opponents for just the second time and the first since 1991, when No. 10 Iowa defeated No. 25 Indiana 38-21 in Iowa City. The schools are meeting for the first time since 2018 and it's hard to ignore that the Hawkeyes have won SEVEN of the last eight meetings. Iowa does have Iowa St up next week (Cyclones are ranked No. 7) but there can be NO "lookahead" when facing this BIG TEN opponent. I'm laying the short price.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekend Wipeout is on Maryland at 3:30 ET.

 The problem for West Virginia is on the offensive side. QB Jarret Doege looked brilliant at times last season, but he was prone to making mistakes as well. Several of them, and all of the time.

Maryland has a well-balanced offense, which isn't great for West Virginia either.

Taulia Tagovailoa will be given the green light today for the home side and he has a slew of dangerous weapons around him (including tight ends Malik Jackson and Chigoziem Okonkwo)

 Last year was a difficult one for both teams. But I think that Maryland's ceiling to improve is huge, while WVU is poised for some minor regression on both sides of the ball.

 Opening Day and on its own field, I think Maryland wins the day but why not take the points?

The play is Maryland.

 Good luck...Larry

My 9* Eye-Opener is on Army at 12:00 ET.

Georgia State opens the season at home against a tricky opponent. Clearly, with a spread like this, the oddsmakers feel these teams are evenly matched. I do as well. The Black Knights are not a powerhouse but under head coach Jeff Monken, Army has been 'bowling' in FOUR of the last five seasons (won 10 games in 2017, 11 in 2018 and went 9-3 in last year's pandemic-shortened season, after losing 24-21 to West Va in the Liberty Bowl (covered at plus-7).

Army's option is always a challenge (finished fourth in the nation in rushing yards per game last year at 273 per) but Georgia State's strength on the defensive side of the ball is stopping the run (it ranked third in rushing defense last season.). The Panthers will need to deal with Army QB Tyhier Tyler, who had 578 rushing yards and five scores last year, all coming in the final seven games.

Georgia State began its football program in 2010 and joined the SBC in 2013. The Panthers went 0-12 in 2013 and then 1-13 in 2014. However, the program has gotten  things figured out, as the Panthers have played in FOUR bowls the last six seasons. That's likely bad news for the rest of the Sunbelt Conference moving forward. QB Cornelious Brown IV is back under center. He struggled with INTs last year, but he's expected to make big strides this year.

These schools have only played one other time, with the Panthers winning 28-21 in 2019. However, that 2019 Army finished just 5-8, the school's LONE losing season in the past FIVE years! Georgia St has a VERY tough first month, as after this home game with Army, the Panthers have road games at No. 10 North Carolina on Sep 11 and at Auburn on Sep 25. I'm taking the points but expect an outright Army win, which means Georgia St will likely open 0-2 (maybe 1-3 in Sep).

Good luck...Larry  

The third pick of my STP is a 7* on Michigan State at 9:00 ET. Northwestern's offense is poised to take a major step back this season.

Hunter Johnson is back under center for NW, but he struggled after coming over from Clemson last season. Also RB Cam Porter is out for the season now due to a leg injury.

Michigan State has plenty of issues as well, but the defense in its second year under Mel Tucker should be vastly improved.

Whether its Payton Thorne or Anthony Russo starting for the Spartans, they'll both benefit from a few key position players on the offensive side of the ball returning.

 Both teams are dealing with offensive issues, but I'd say Northwestern's are greater.

I also believe that MSU has the better defense, which I think will take a big step forward this year.

Outright victory? Yes, that's what I expect. However, grab as many points as you can.

 The play is Michigan State.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP is an 8* on Duke at 7:00 ET. Duke is out to bounce back after a 1-9 mark in ACC conference play in 2020. Last year it suffered through posting a nation-high 39 turnovers in 11 games last year.

Gunnar Holmberg is now the starting QB for the Blue Devils and he's going to benefit tremendously from having almost his entire starting offense back around him, including receivers Jake Bobo, Jalon Calhoun and Eli Pancol while Mataeo Durant is back at RB.

 The secondary also benefits with most of the starters returning. There's only one way this Duke team can go this year, but in all honesty the many returning players from last season should absolutely see the Blue Devils take a big step forward across the board.

 Charlotte was 2-4 last year overall, including 2-2 in C-USA play. QB Chris Reynolds and nine other starters from the offense return for the 49ers. I still don't think it'll be enough though to keep pace with this determined Duke side that'll be playing with a collective chip on its shoulder.

Defense is a major issue for Charlotte this season. It was last year.

 These teams played last year and

Duke won by a score of 53-19. That was on Halloween.

While likely not quite as gruesome as last year's result, everything still points to a comfortable blowout victory for Duke in my opinion.

Good luck...Larry

The first pick of my STP is an 8* on Virginia Tech.

Virginia Tech was inconsistent last year. It had some good wins (Virginia), but then also some poor efforts as well (lost 56-45 to the Tar Heels.)

UNC will have QB Sam Howell under center, but most of the pieces around him which proved so successful last year are gone. The defensive unit for the Tar Heels is a work in progress as well.

The bottom line is, I can't see how Howell can do this all by himself. WR Dyami Brown is on the Washington Football Team. WR Dazz Newsome is a Chicago Bear, and the running back tandem of Javonte Williams and Michael Carter has also moved on.

Virginia Tech has the offense to match its opponent today with Braxton Burmeister. The pressure is also completely on ranked UNC in this spot.

Look for the Hokies' experience on the offensive side of the ball prove to be the difference-maker in this one.

That said, grab as many points as you can. The play is Virginia Tech.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NCAAF Season-Opener is on UCF at 7:00 ET.

The Boise St Broncos joined Division I back in 1999 and enter 2021 with a run of 22 consecutive winning seasons under four different head coaches. Chris Petersen was the most successful, completing undefeated seasons in 2006 (13-0 and final AP ranking of 5) and in 2009 (14-0 with a final AP ranking of 4). Bryan Harsin took over in 2014 when Petersen left for Washington and produced SEVEN straight winning seasons. Boise was hit hard by COVID in 2020, sometimes missing as many as 20-plus players. The team finished the pandemic-shortened season just 5-2 and when the school "opted-out" of a bowl bid, its streak of 18 straight bowl bids ended. Harsin is gone (to Auburn) and Andy Avalos takes over. Avalos is a Boise St alum (was named first-team All-Western Athletic Conference honors in 2003 and 2004 as a linebacker) but this is his first head coaching gig.

UCF joined Division I FBS in 1996 but the Knights were just 46-44 after eight seasons. George O'Leary took over in 2004 and the school went 0-11 but posted a winning record in SEVEN of the next 10 seasons, winning 10 games in 2007 and 2012, 11 in 2010 and 12 in 2013 (12-1 season left them No. 10 in the final AP poll). Things fell apart in 2015, as the team went 0-12 (O'Leary was fired after opening 0-8). "To the rescue" came Scott Frost, who in his second season (2017), went 13-0 as UCF finished No. 6 in the final AP poll, Frost used that season as a springboard to take the Nebraska job (How's that worked out Scott?). Josh Heupel took over and led UCF to a 12-2 season in 2018 and 10-3 in 2019, before falling to 6-4 in 2020. Heupel has moved on to Tennessee and he may want to check with Frost on how that move could work out. Taking over is Gus Malzahn, who was fired after last season by Auburn after eight years at the school.

Boise St returns 17 starters but one can't overlook the fact that the Broncos' offense averaged its fewest YPG on offense (349 per) and allowed its most points on defense (27.1 PPG) since the school joined Division I. Not a good 'daily double,' as Boise allowed 24 more YPG than it gained. UCF also returns 17 starters plus has brought in some talented transfers. Heupel's offense has posted some eye-popping numbers in his three seasons but I'm convinced that UCF gets an upgrade at the head coaching position with Malzahn taking over. During his eight seasons at Auburn, Malzahn was 68-35, including THREE wins over Alabama plus made a trip to the 2013 national championship game where the Tigers lost 34-31 to FSU when the Seminoles scored with 13 seconds left.

UCF went just 2-2 at home in 2020 but was 21-0 SU at home from 2017-19. A win here and an undefeated home season is a VERY real possibility. Lay the 'short' price.

Good luck...Larry 

My 9* Rivalry Rout is on the NY Giants at 6:00 ET.

The Patriots are 2-0. They've looked good in both games. Both Cam Newton and Mac Jones dominated in New England's 35-0 destruction of the Eagles in Week 2.

Newton had 103 yards on 8 of 9 passing, while Jones had 146 yards on 13 of 19 passing.

I don't expect Bill Belichick to keep the foot on the gas in this now meaningless Week 3 NFL preseason contest. The Patriots can simply go through the motions here and get ready for their Week 1 matchup at home against the Dolphins (it's interesting to note that the Pats will play their final Week 17 game in Miami to finish out the regular season.)

The Giants are 0-2 SU and 1-1 ATS. They lost 12-7 at home to the Jets in Week 1, before then falling 17-13 at Cleveland last weekend.

I say this one just means more to New York. The Giants are coming off a miserable 2020/21 campaign and are looking for any tiny positive thing they can before heading into the regular season.

In the setback to the Browns, Brian Lewerke threw for 108 yards, a TD, and an INT on 11 of 19 passing while third-stringer Mike Glennon had 86 passing yards on 10 of 13 passing.

Does it matter that New England is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road and only 1-5 ATS in its last six as a favorite?

How about the fact that New York is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 as an underdog?

It certainly doesn't hurt!

Either way, look for the home side to take this one much more seriously and to walk away with at least the ATS cover.

The play is New York.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NFLX Game of the Week is on the Was FB Team at 6:00 ET.

Washington is 1-1 SU and 0-2 ATS in the preseason.

Baltimore is 2-0 SU/ATS so far in the preseason.

The Ravens have now won 19 straight pre-season games in a row. That's remarkable, but as the old saying goes, "all good things have to come to an end."

I understand that John Harbaugh takes the preseason more seriously than other coaches. I get it. Clearly, he does with a 19 game winning streak on the line. But I don't think Harbaugh could care less about setting any preseason records.

 Tyler Huntley is expected to see most of the time for Baltimore under center in this one. Last week he had 187 yards and an INT.

 Washington has much more to work on than Harbaugh and the Ravens. The Football team is off a decent 17-13 win over the Bengals in Week 2 and I believe they'll be out to finish up the preseason strong.

 Ryan Fitzpatrick continues to play with a chip on his shoulder, as the veteran finished for 96 yards. Taylor Heinicke had 80 yards passing, while RB Jaret Patterson had 71 rushing yards and a TD.

 I think Washington will be out to not only build on their win from last week, but to also snap the Ravens' preseason streak, and make sure they don't get the record here on their own field.

Lastly, note that The Football Team is still 5-1 ATS in its last six as an underdog.

 Outright win? Definitely not out of the realm of possibility in my opinion.

However, my official recommendation will be to grab as many points as you can.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Car Panthers at 7:10 ET.

It's going to be a different regular season. We now have 17 games in the regular season, while just the three in the preseason.

This though will actually be the Steelers' fourth game. They played in the Hall of Fame Game, and so they come into this meaningless final preseason contest having already gone a perfect 3-0 straight up and 2-1 against the spread.

They beat the Lions 26-20 last weekend but were unable to cover the seven-point spread.

But regardless, I think that Mike Tomlin has seen enough. Look for Pittsburgh to just go through the motions here in Carolina this weekend.

But for the Panthers, they could really use something positive before heading into the regular season after starting out the preseason by going 0-2 straight up and against the spread.

This one simply means MORE to Matt Rhule and the home side.

And in this meaningless Week 3 preseason NFL contest, I think that's going to be the difference-maker.

Mason Rudolph looked pretty good against a poor Lions team last time out for the Steelers. He saw most of the time in that one, meaning that Dwayne Haskins will likely see most of the time today under center for Pittsburgh.

On the other side of the field, the Panthers lost their second straight preseason game, falling 20-3 to Baltimore. Will Grier was efficient though, going 11 of 14 for 144 yards passing.

Pittsburgh faded down the stretch there against the Lions last week as it allowed two meaningless touchdowns really late to let Detroit sneak in through the back door.

And as I said off the top, I think it'll just go through the motions here as well today. There's nothing left to prove, to figure out, or to play for today for the visiting side.

While as I've also outlined, this one sure does mean much more to the winless home side. Albeit winless in the preseason.

That's my read in this one. I expect Carolina to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish.

Lay the short points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* MNF Magic Play is on the NO Saints at 8:00 ET.

After this, there's only one week left in the NFLX preseason. 

New Orleans is off a tough 17-14 Week 1 loss at Baltimore, but I think it'll rebound and give a bigger effort here in Week 2 at home. 

Jacksonsville fell 23-13 at home to Cleveland. Remember, Urban Meyer is the new head coach of the Jaguars.

The Jags' defense looked shaky, allowing 319 passing yards to Cleveland. Last year Jacksonville conceded 264.4 yards passing per game, which ranked 24th in the league. 

Jacksonville rookie QB Trevor Lawrence was six of nine for 71 yards. 

The Saints can pin their loss on sloppy play last week, as they committed eight turnovers on offense. Last year the Saints averaged just 1.2 turnovers per game last year.

New Orleans' QB Jameis Winston was 7 of 12 for 96 yards and a touchdown. 

I think New Orleans will clean up its play here though, and that'll be the differene in the end. Jacksonville has so many things to work on, that it's disorginaztion will lead to another poor collective effort. 

Look for the Saints' defense to take advantage at home and for New Orleans' more experienced offensive unit to do the rest.

Lay the points, the play is New Orleans.

Good luck...Larry

The 3rd pick of my STTP is a 10* on the Det Lions at 7:30 ET.

Good luck...Larry

The 2nd pick of my STP is 9* on the Car Panthers at 7:00 ET.

The 1st pick of my STP is a 9* on the GB Packers at 4:25 ET.

My 10* NFLX Game Of the Year is the Washington Football Team at 8:00 ET.

This line opened -3.5. Then it was announced that Joe Burrow was not going to be playing at all for the visiting Bengals and the line climbed a few points higher.

Regardless of who is under center for the Bengals, I like Washington to not only win on Friday night but to win by a comfortable margin.

The Bengals are primed for an immediate letdown as well after their big win over Tampa Bay in Week 1 of the preseason, holding on for the 19-14 victory. Backup QB Kyle Shurmur had 108 yards and an interception on 12 of 19 passing while Brandon Allen threw for 77 yards and a pick as well.

Washington is off a loss in New England. It was in contention in the first half, but then it took the foot off the gas. I don't expect the same thing to happen here though at home.

Steven Montez has 108 yards passing, a touchdown, and an interception in the setback, while Taylor Heinicke threw for 86 yards. Ryan Fitzpatrick had 58 yards in his first game in a Washington uniform.

Ron Rivera is known for taking the preseason more seriously than others, and in his first home game of the year with fans in the stands, I expect him to have his team fired up to perform.

Expect this to translate into production on both sides of the field for the home side.

Lay the points, the play is the Washington Football Team.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Las Vegas Insider is on the Phi Eagles at 7:30 ET.

The preseason has changed. There are now only three weeks being played.

This is significant. Traditionally Week 3 of the preseason has been the "dress rehearsal" for the "real thing." That's the game in which the starters see most of the action.

But with injuries on the rise, the preseason has been cut to just three games. What effect this will have on how or when starters will see action will differ moving forward.

It's going to be a "game to game" thing. And it's going to be different from one team to the next, depending on just which areas they need to work on.

Philadelphia looked great in the first half of its Week 1 matchup against the Steelers, as it went into the break with a 16-7 lead.

The Eagles clearly took the foot off the gas in the second half though, getting outscored 17-0 the rest of the way.

However, having back-to-back home games to open the preseason is not something that I believe the Eagles will take for granted here in Week 2, and before hitting the road in their finale.

Polar opposite situation for the Patriots. They were down 7-6 at home to Washington in their preseason opener last weekend, before then outscoring The Football Team 16-6 in the second half.

With that satisfying come from behind win in front of the home town crowd, I just can't help but feel the Patriots are primed for a major letdown here.

Handicapping preseason NFL games from a "situational" standpoint is a great place to start. And for this pick, it's also where it's going to end.

Regardless of who starts, from a situational standpoint, this one sets up great for the home side in my opinion and while the outright win certainly isn't out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

The play is Philadelphia.

Good luck...Larry

My NFLX 10* Week 1 AFC/NFC "GAME OF THE MONTH" is on the Hou Texans at 8:00 ET.

The Houston Texans are coming off a four win season. Their starting QB DeShaun Watson is embroiled in an off-field controversy which will have a lasting effect on the organization moving forward. 

David Culley is the new head coach of Houston and he'll be eager to post a win here and to start a new narrative for the club. 

Houston has a decent stable of "backups." Watson isn't expected to play with Houston this year, so Tyrod Taylor, Davis Mills and Jeff Driskel will all see time in the preseason. 

The Packers have had to deal with plenty of off-field issues as well. Aaron Rodgers has finally decided to stay for at least one more year with the Packers, but he won't be seeing any time today. Instead it'll be Jordan Love and Kurt Benkert getting the snaps. 

The biggest weakness last year for Green Bay was on the defensive side. That'll be an issue again this season. 

But despite losing JJ Watt in FA, the Texans remain stout on that side of the ball, with veteran Vincent Taylor leading the way. 

Both teams have plenty of issues. If this was Week 1 of the regular season, I'd likely be backing the Packers in a blowout.

But it's not Week 1 of the regular season, it's Week 1 of the preaseason. 

I think Houston will take this game much more seriously and while the outright is possible, in the end my official call is to grab as many points as you can.

Good luck...Larry

My 8* Weekend Wipeout is on the NO Saints at 7:00 ET.

Will the Baltimore Ravens finish with a better record than the New Orleans Saints this year.

While not even in the same Conference, the answer is still probably "yes." And that's because Drew Brees is no longer under center for the Saints. 

The thing is, the Ravens aren't going to have LaMar Jackson under center either. 

While Baltimore moves ahead into the season with their No. 1 QB secured and locked in, the Saints have themselves a big time competition in the preseason.

And it's this competition which I think will be the difference-maker for the Saints. So who will it be, Taysum Hill or Jamies Winston?

The biggest improvement for New Orleans last year did not come on the offensive side of the ball, but on the defensive, as New Orleans allowd the fourth least yards allowed in 2020. 

New Orleans isn't starting its second and third string QB's today. It's starting its first and second string QB's. 

In Week 1, I think the "hungrier" team with more to work on finds a way to deliver (that said, make sure to grab as many points as you can!)

The play is the Saints.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on the Det Lions at 7:00 ET.

The Bills are predicted to be a Top 5 team. However, this Week 1 Preseason game definitely "means" more to the Lions in my estimation.

Remember, in this abbreviated preseason, starters will see even less time. And the time that backups and wannabe's DO have, will be even more precious.

Buffalo is an exciting team. I'm excited for "Bills Mafia." QB Josh Allen just signed a huge contract. Overall last season the Bills averaged 31.3 PPG, while allowing 23.4.

The Lions have a new head coach and a new QB under center. If this was Week 1 of the regular season, I'd likely be on the Bills in a blowout.

But with almost their entire starting line-up resolved, Buffalo doesn't have a lot to work on the pre-season.

David Blough and Tim Boyle are backing up Jared Goff in Detroit, and they'll be in a fight for that No. 2 spot throughout the preseason.

The Lions averaged only 23.4 PPG, while allowing 32.4 last year, a big reason why there have been so many changes in the offseason.

Look for the more determined home side to earn its first victory for its new coach.

The play is the Lions.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* NFLX Rivalry Game of the Month is on the Pit Steelers at 7:30 ET.

I like the Steelers to build off their Hall Of Fame Game victory. They beat the Cowboys by a score of 16-3. In this abbreviated pre-season, the backups and wannabes have even less time to impress, and any tiny advantages these players have is signficant.

With one game under their belts, the Steelers are the savvy move here on Thursday in my opinion. 

The Eagles have a new head coach in Nick Siranni, and second-year QB Jalen Hurts is now the man under center with Carson Wentz having departed for the Colts. 

The Steelers' offense was shaky in the HOF Game, but the defense sure looked sharp. Mason Rudolph is fighting for a spot behind Big Ben, and will be in a constant competion with Dwayne Haskins and Joshua Dobbs. The defense forced three turnovers and had four sacks.

Joe Flacco and Nick Mullins are going to see the majority of the snaps for the Eagles today. Suffice it to say, I trust neither against this opportunistic Steelers defensive unit. 

Yes, Siranni would LOVE to win his "first" game as head coach for his new team. But this is the preason. I say it's Mike Tomlin and the Steelers who are more organized and who will find a way to deliver on Thursday night.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Run-Line Game of the Month is on the Hou Astros (run-line) at 8:10 ET.

I think the massive talent discrepancy on the mound absolutely justifies in laying the 1.5 runs for the much better price.

So that's my official call on this one, taking the Astros on the runline option.

The hapless Twins turns to Griffin Jax (1-1, 6.41 ERA) out of necessity after trading a few pieces out of the starting rotation recently. The sample size is small, but I say he's in well over his head here on the road against the the Playoff surging Astros.

Houston counters with Framber Valdez (7-2, 3.01), who gave up two runs off four hits while striking out six over five innings in a win over the hard-hitting Giants on Friday. 

So far Valdez has been perfect at home this season as well, going 3-0 with a 3.00 ERA. 

I like Valdez to go deep, and for Jax to get the hook early.

I expect Houston to not only win today, but to do so by a significan margin.

The play is Houston on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My NFLX 10* Hall of Fame Game play is on the Pit Steelers at 8:00 ET

Neither starting QB will see any action today. 

The Cowboys were a complete mess on the offensive side of the ball without Dak Prescott in the line-up last year and I believe that's going to again be the case in the Hall Of Fame Game.

Dallas will also be without WR Amari Cooper. 

Garrett Gilbert will be getting the start under center for Dallas tonight (also Ben DiNucci and Cooper Rush will see time.) We'll also see the backups and wannabe's under WR and RB.

Ben Roethlisberger won't be under center tonight for the Steelers, meaning you'd better get ready for a healthy dose of Mason Rudolph and Dwayne Haskins. 

What I do really like about Pittsburgh in this one though, is that it will be giving RB Najee Harris considerable touches throughout this game and entire preseason. 

This is the Hall of Fame Game. Pretty much anything can happen. That said, the key talent that's out on the Cowboys offense is significant and their defense, which was a weak point last season, is also a concern this year.

Pittsburgh finished with the No. 3 defense last year. 

Rudolph has seen considerable time under center in the regular season and is probably the best QB on the field tonight.

Give me the Steelers to cover the small number.

Good luck...Larry

The 2nd pick of my STP is on the Chi White Sox (-1.5) at 8:10 ET.

Yes, the White Sox have been alternating wins and losses over their last few games and yes, they're coming off a 5-3 win yesterday, but despite that, I expect Chicago to break that recent trend and to instead build off its victory with another big winning effort here.

Chicago hands the ball to Lucas Giolito (8-7, 3.78 ERA), who will be eager to return to the winners circle after a hard-luck loss on Friday against the Brewers, allowing one run over six innings. 

Over 119 innings of work so far this year Giolito has a 136/38 K/W, and while he's a poor 4-5 with a 5.05 ERA in all day games, he's a great 4-2 with a 2.71 ERA in all night contests this season.

The upstart Royals counter with Kris Bubic (3-4, 4.72), who gave up one run over six innings in a win over the Tigers last Friday. It was enough to earn him another start, as he's needed mostly out of necessity with others on the injured list.

The Royals are just 1-10 in their last 11 home games here against the White Sox and I believe that trend of futility continues here.

Chicago is 6-3 in its last nine on the road overall and I expect it to not only win today, but to win BIG.

The play is the White Sox on the run line option.

Good luck...Larry

My 8* Run-Line Division Dominator (AL West) is on the Sea Mariners at 10:10 ET.

Oakland won the opener of this series 4-1, but the Mariners bounced back with a 4-3 victory yesterday. I expect another really tight affair here as well, and because of that I'm going to lay what I deem to be a very reasonable mid-sized price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

Oakland hands the ball to Chris Bassitt (10-3, 3.31 ERA) who gave up three runs over seven innings in what turned out to be loss to the Indians on Sunday. 

It's difficult to say too many negative things about Bassitt, so I'm not even going to bother to try.

I just think that Logan Gilbert (4-2, 3.50) for the Mariners can match his counterpart inning for inning this evening.

Gilbert comes in off a tough road win over the Angels on Sunday, allowing two runs over six innings and striking out a career high nine in the process. 

Over his first 11 big league starts, Logan is getting progressively better. Not only does he sport the sharp 3.50 ERA over 54 innings of work, but also a tiny 0.98 WHIP and 62/12 K/W. 

In a contest which I see being decided late or in extra's, I'm laying the price for the runline option on the Mariners.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* RUN LINE Las Vegas Insider is on the Jays.

Whoever gets the start for the Red Sox tonight, I like Robbie Ray and the Blue Jays to win by a decisive margin.

And that's why I like the home side on the runline option this evening.

Garrett Richards (5-5, 4.91 ERA) is scheduled right now to start for the Red Sox. He's 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA in three starts against the Jays this year and he's 3-5 with a 5.26 ERA in 11 career outings against them. 

The home side counters with the red hot Ray (8-4, 2.93), who won his only start against the Red Sox this season back in early June, allowing three runs and striking out ten over six innings.

Ray has gotten stronger as the season has prorgressed and he gave up no runs over seven innings and struck out ten in a win over the Rangers in his last outing. 

He has to be feeling confident here as well as he's 5-2 with a 2.70 ERA in all home contests this year.

Look for the hard-hitting Jays to take full advantage of their AL East rival, who sits nine games ahead of them in the standings.

Toronto not only wins tonight, it wins BIG.

The play is the Jays on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Suns.

I had a play on the Suns in Game 5 and while that pick obviously fell flat, I think that Phoenix will at the very least, take Game 6 right down to the wire.

Many felt that the Suns were going to sweep the Bucks in four straight in this series and it definitely appeared as if that could happen after Phoenix took the early 2-0 lead. But it's been all Milwaukee since, as the Bucks have a golden opportunity to close out and win the title this evening.

It's difficult to beat a team in three straight games. No matter who the opponent is. I think Milwaukee is going to struggle to put away this talented and desperate Suns side.

One constant throughout for Phoenix has been the steady play of Devin Booker, who has 82 combined points over his last two games.

The Suns bench only produced 15 points last time out, but I don't expect that to happen twice.

Phoenix is also 8-2 ATS in its last ten in trying to revenge two straight SU/ATS losses to an opponent as well.

Look for Chris Paul to bounce back with a big game here and for the Suns to fight tooth and nail until the final buzzer.

While the outright win is possible, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

The play is Phoenix.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the Red Sox on the runline.

Obviously the Jays are a great hitting team. But the Red Sox are pretty good too.

This is a pitching matchup which favors the visiting side as well.

While I do think the outright is very possible, in a game which I think will be decided late or even in extra time, I'm going to lay the price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

The Jays just beat Texas twice, winning 10-2 and 10-0. 

Boston comes in as the hungrier team here for sure, as it dropped two of three in the Big Apple over the weekend, including yesterday's 9-1 setback.

Nick Pivetta (7-4, 4.30 ERA) faltered over the final couple of week of the first half, but the extra time off will be beneficial here in my opinion. Note that Pivetta is 4-2 with a 2.92 ERA on the road this season.

Ross Stripling (3-5, 4.34) also stumbled over the first half, most recently allowing four runs over three innings in a loss to the Rays. 

I think it's significant to note that Stripling is 3-2 with 3.27 ERA in all "day" games, while going 0-3 with a 5.96 ERA in all "night" games this season.

Look for Boston to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

The play is the Red Sox on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

The first pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the White Sox on runline.

The Twins just lost three in a row in Detroit over the weekend, and I think they're overmatched here as well.

In fact in my opinion, the talent discrepancy on the mound today between starting pitchers absolutely justifies in laying the 1.5 runs for the much better price for Lance Lynn and the home side.

Lynn (9-3, 1.99 ERA) just signed a two-year extension to stay with Chicago. Lynn has been fantastic no matter where he's been this year, but particularly effective at home by going 6-2 with a 1.53 ERA.

The Twins counter with Griffin Jax (1-1, 8.66) who is being asked to make this spot start on a call up from Triple-A St. Paul. Over 17.2 innings this year not only does Jax have the atrocious 8.66 ERA, but he also sports a terrible 1.70 WHIP.

No need to overthink this one, the play is Chicago on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* RUNLINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Rockies.

Colorado has gotten smashed in the first two games of this series, falling 10-4 in the opener and then 9-2 yesterday.

However, I think this is a starting pitching matchup which favors the home side.

In a contest which I seeing being much tighter than the first two, my strongest play on this one will be to play the home side on the runline option.

David Price (4-0, 3.23 ERA) has been working out of the bullpen all year for the Dodgers, but with Trevor Bauer on the shelf, he's been pressed into a starters role. 

Price clearly isn't in unchartered territory, but he draws a tough matchup here in a very difficult road venue. 

Regression does seem imminent for the 35 year veteran in my opinion.

Colorado counters with Jon Gray (6-6, 3.77) who comes in off a gem over the Padres, allowing one run with seven strikeouts over six innings.

Gray enters on top form, having posted three straight quality starts and note that he's been at his best at home this season, going 5-2 with a 3.23 ERA at Coors so far.

I say Price takes a step back here.

The play is Colorado on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NBA GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Suns.

I've been riding the Bucks the last couple of games, but here I'm going the other way in Game 5. 

So far home court advantage has proven to be the difference-maker for these teams, with the Suns winning Game's 1 and 2 handily, before the Bucks responding in kind in Milwaukee in Game's 3 and 4.

Khris Middleton had his biggest game of the Finals so far for the Bucks in Game 4, scoring 40 points, grabbing six boards and dishing out four assists. 

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 points, 14 boards and eight assists. 

Antetokounmpo has been unbelievable so far in the Finals, but other than his big Game 4 appearance, Middleton hasn't been a very big factor in this series.

The same thing can be said for the struggling Jrue Holiday, who was just 4 of 20 for 17 points in Game 4 for the Bucks.

Clearly, Phoenix has to be happy its back home. That includes Chris Paul, who uncharacteristically struggled in back-to-back games in Milwaukee.

Suffice it to say, I don't expect lightning to strike a third time tonight. I say Paul bounces back here at home. 

Devin Booker led the way in a losing cause for the Suns in Game 4 with 42 points.

Paul and Booker have to be feeling confident here though finally, as note that Phoenix is 36-16 ATS in its last 52 home games and 46-19-1 ATS in its last 66 against teams with winning records.

After back-to-back victories, a letdown is imminent here for Milwaukee, which is in fact a poor 3-11 ATS in its last 14 as an underdog.

I look for this home court trend to continue in Game 5. And if this keeps up, we're heading for a Game 7 before you know it!

Lay the points, the play is Phoenix.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the Blue Jays on the run-line.

Jordan Lyles (5-5, 4.86 ERA) closed the first half strong. Can the veteran hurler keep that momentum rolling in the second half?

He draws a tough opponent to open things up and I believe the answer is in fact "no," he can't. 

Lyles posted four straight quality starts to close out the first half, but note the he's just 3-4 with a ballooned 5.36 ERA in all "night" games this year (he's 1-0 with a 6.08 ERA in three career games against the Jays.)

Robbie Ray (7-4, 3.13) enters the second half on top form and I don't see any reason not to believe that he can't keep the good times rolling here.

Ray gave up one hit and struck out 11 over seven innings in a win over the Rays on Sunday. 

Ray has been particularly effective at home this season as well, going 4-2 with a 3.03 ERA.

The Blue Jays welcome back their team of All Star sluggers to the line-up, including MVP Vlad Guerrero Jr.

Look for Ray to go deep and for Lyles to get the hook early.

In this case, I'm going to lay the 1.5 runs for the much more reasonable price.

The play is Toronto on the runline option.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game 4 Las Vegas Insider is on the Bucks.

Gentlemen. I had a play on the Bucks in Game 3, a blowout winner and if you didn't get to read that analysis, I'm going to share it now, as the logic and reasoning behind that pick, for the most part also directly apply to my Game 4 selection on Milwaukee as well:

GAME 3 ANALYSIS

I had a play on Milwaukee in Game 1. I then had a play on the Bucks in Game 2.

I'm going back to the well here in Game 3, as I do finally expect Giannis Antetokounmpo's teammates to show up tonight.

Antetokounmpo exploded for 42 points, 12 boards and four assists in Game 2, but it wasn't enough to avoid the 0-2 hole.

But now that this series is shifting back to Milwaukee, I think the momentum will shift in favor of the Bucks here.

The Suns are a better team at home and they took advantage of a tired Milwaukee club in Game 1. Game 2 wasn't nearly as easy, and Antetokounmpo almost pulled off the upset with little help.

Khris Middleton hasn't been effective to this point, but I don't expect that trend to continue here on his own floor.

This is it for Milwaukee. A 3-0 hole will be too much to climb out of (just ask the Montreal Canadiens!).

Phoenix will likely win this series. I think they're the better overall team. But the Suns haven't been perfect either.

Phoenix might not even be in the Finals if Kawhi Leonard was playing for LA, as Paul George and company gave Phoenix a real test.

Milwaukee shut down the Nets and I think it can bounce back here in this crucial moment.

So that's my read on this one gentlemen, I say the Bucks do indeed bounce back in Game 3.

I'll further add here in Game 4, that the Suns are now going to be forced to double and triple-team Antetokounmpo after his back-to-back historic performances, which will finally give Middleton and Holiday a golden opportunity to break out of their respective funks with a huge game.

I say the momentum has now swung back in favor of Milwaukee and I believe the "home court" advantage will once again prove to be a difference-maker as well.

Lay the points, the play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Milwaukee Bucks.

I had a play on Milwaukee in Game 1. I then had a play on the Bucks in Game 2.

I'm going back to the well here in Game 3, as I do finally expect Giannis Antetokounmpo's teammates to show up tonight.

Antetokounmpo exploded for 42 points, 12 boards and four assists in Game 2, but it wasn't enough to avoid the 0-2 hole.

But now that this series is shifting back to Milwaukee, I think the momentum will shift in favor of the Bucks here. 

The Suns are a better team at home and they took advantage of a tired Milwaukee club in Game 1. Game 2 wasn't nearly as easy, and Antetokounmpo almost pulled off the upset with little help.

Khris Middleton hasn't been effective to this point, but I don't expect that trend to continue here on his own floor.

This is it for Milwaukee. A 3-0 hole will be too much to climb out of (just ask the Montreal Canadiens!).

Phoenix will likely win this series. I think they're the better overall team. But the Suns haven't been perfect either.

Phoenix might not even be in the Finals if Kawhi Leonard was playing for LA, as Paul George and company gave Phoenix a real test.

Milwaukee shut down the Nets and I think it can bounce back here in this crucial moment.

So that's my read on this one gentlemen, I say the Bucks do indeed bounce-back in Game 3.

Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* WIPEOUT WINNER is on the Rockies on the RUN-LINE.

I had a play on Colorado in its outright win in Arizona last night, and while I do think it can carry that momentum over here and take advantage of a less than 100% in form Blake Snell, in the end my strongest play on this game will be to take the Rockies on the runline option.

The Padres haven't been playing particularly well of late, as they've dropped six of their last ten. Off a wild 9-8 win at home last night over Washington though, I think this sets up as a letdown, as SD has in fact traded wins/losses now over its last six games.

Kyle Freeland (1-2, 5.50 ERA) hasn't had the greatest season obviously for the Rockies, but there's also no question that he enters playing his best baseball of the season, as he's posted a 0.58 ERA, 17 strikeouts and allowed no runs over his last two starts.

Snell (3-3, 4.99) returned from the COVID 19 injured list and threw four scoreless against the Phillies, but he's expected to see limited time tonight as well, as he still tries to recover from the sickness.

The bottom line is, I don't trust this Padres bullpen anymore.

As I stated off the top, I think this is a prime letdown spot again for San Diego.

Freeland has been unbelievable for the Rockies of late and I expect him to continue his progression.

The play is Colorado on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 2 SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Bucks.

I had a play on Milwaukee in Game 1 and while that play came up short, I think the Bucks will make the necessary adjustments to be much more competitive in Game 2.

Phoenix had significant advantages in Game 1, which it won't have here. It had a few days of rest between series to focus and regroup.

The Bucks finished their series with the Hawks and almost immediately got on a plane to Phoenix.

Giannis Antetokounmpo was also a huge question mark going into Game 1. The Bucks had to have two games plans, with or without their super star in the line-up.

He played, he was decent and his injury is now behind him. Now Milwaukee can properly focus with its full line-up and I say that's a huge difference here in Game 3.

The Suns haven't been perfect during the playoffs, with big lapses in form from game-to-game throughout the Clippers series.

This Bucks team is better than Los Angeles in my opinion. Especially with Antetokounmpo now back to full health.

I'm not trying to take away how great Chris Paul, Devin Booker and De'Andre Ayton are and have been leading up to this moment, but there's no way the Suns are sweeping this series.

While I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one coming down to whichever of these talented teams has its hands on the ball last.

I'm grabbing the points, the play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Milwaukee Bucks.

I think there's value to be had here on the undermanned and underdog Milwaukee Bucks.

The Suns had a hell of a time putting away Paul George and the Clippers, who had to play without star Kawhi Leonard, arguably a top 3 player on the planet.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is out. Clearly, that's a huge issue for the Bucks. But I say it's more of an issue over the long-term. Milwaukee will throw its best possible shot here in an attempt to pull off an upset. The Bucks are deep and aren't going to be afraid of Devin Booker whatsoever. 

Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, Bobby Portis and Brook Lopez have the talent and experience here to pull off an outright upset.

That's easier said than done though obviously. The Suns are 33-11 at home. Milwaukee is 25-20 on the road. 

These teams played twice in the regular season. The Suns won both. 

Both by a single point.

It's double-revenge time here for Milwaukee. With Giannis in the line-up, this line drops to right around +2.5 for the Bucks likely. 

The Bucks are sitting pretty heading into Game 2 if they can somehow pull off the outright here, as Antetokounmpo would be expected to then return. 

I say Milwaukee fights tooth and nail and at the very least, takes this one right down to the wire.

Grab the points, the play is the Bucks.

Good luck...Larry

My 8* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Mets on the runline.

Brandon Woodruff has been unbelievable this year for the Brewers, but regression is imminent in my opinion.

I think this is a good spot wager. The Brewers just had their nine-game win streak snapped last time out in a 2-0 setback at Pittsburgh yesterday afternoon, and now that the wind is out of their sails, I expect New York to take advantage.

As I say, Woodruff (7-3, 1.87 ERA) has been great. It's basically impossible to say anything negative about him, so I won't bother trying. This one simply comes down to the fact that I think he's in the wrong place at the wrong time today.

So Tyler Megill (0-0, 4.82) will look to match pace today for the home side. He most recently allowed three runs and struck out eight over five innings in a no-decison to the Braves. The rookie won't be lacking for motivation, he now owns a respectable 12/4 K/W over 9.1 innings of work.

Milwaukee is likely going to be a popular wager here for the public, and the bookmakers know it. This price is elevated and it swings the value to the under-valued underdog in my opinion.

But here, I'm going to grab the Mets on the runline at this really great price.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the White Sox on the run line.

Chicago won the opener of this three-game series by a score of 8-2, and then the Tigers responded with an 11-5 victory yesterday.

I had a play on the Tigers on the runline in that one, but in the end we didn't even need the extra run-and-half associated with that type of wager.

Today though, I'm going the other way. I think that the massive talent discrepancy on the mound today between these starting pitchers, justifies laying the 1.5 runs for near "pick em" price.

Lucas Giolito (6-5, 3.84 ERA), earned a win over the Twins on Tuesday, allowing three runs off six hits over six innings. 

It was his fourth straight quality start and he now owns a respectable 1.10 WHIP and huge 111/30 K/W over 93.2 innings of work.

He'll be opposed by confirmed "gas can" Matt Manning (1-2, 8.16), who was shelled for nine runs off nine hits over 3.2 innings in a loss to Cleveland on Monday. Over 14.1 big league innings he has just six strikeouts. 

Clearly the sample size is still too small to draw any firm conclusions about Manning, but the bottom line here is I believe he's in well over his head here facing the "in form" Giolito.

And so that's my read on this one. Chicago is set to bounce back here, not only winning, but winning in blowout fashion.

The play is on Gioltio and the White Sox on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 6 SHOWDOWN is on the Bucks.

Whether Trae Young plays here or not, I like the Bucks to dig deep and find a way to end this series here and now.

They'll be doing that without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who hyper-extended his knee. But Milwaukee was able to win Game 5 handily without its super star as well.

The Hawks managed a Game 4 victory at home without Trae Young, but his absesnce was definitely felt in Game 5.

Young is listed as a "GAME TIME DECISION" for Game 6.

Clearly, if Young does play, he's not going to be at 100% health. 

Khris Middleton is averaging 22.7 points and 4.7 assists in the playoffs, and he and Jrue Holiday, who is the third double-digit scorer, definitely stepped up and filled the void last time out. Brook Lopez was also key.

I think this group has what it takes to end this series, whether Young plays or not.

Bobby Portis was another player who stepped up big for Milwaukee, and with group contributions like that, I can't see Atlanta keeping pace down the stretch.

While clearly the outright win is very possible, in the end I'll recommend that you grab as many points as you can.

The play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the Tigers on the runline.

I like the Tigers to bounce back here after yesterday's 8-2 defeat to the White Sox.

That said, in a game which could very well be decided late or in extra innings, my best play on this one will be to lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

Dallas Keuchel (6-2, 3.96 ERA) gave up two runs off six hits in a no-decision to the Mariners in Game 1 of last Sunday's double-header. 

He'll be opposed by Tarik Skubal (4-7, 4.06) who gave up one run and struck out nine over seven innings in an unfortate no-decision vs. the Astros last weekend. Over 77.2 innings he now owns a sharp 94/36 K/W. 

And note, despite a 1-4 record in Detroit, he owns a very respectable 3.23 ERA there. 

Finally note that the Tigers are 6-2 in their last eight in trying to revenge a five runs or greater loss to an opponent.

For all the reasons I've listed above, lay the price on the Tigers on the runline option in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Bucks.

The Hawks managed a win at home without Trae Young in the lineup in Game 4, but I think the Bucks will bounce-back and take advantage of familiar surroundings on Thursday night.

Young will almost assuredly being play tonight, but even if he does suit up, one has to wonder about his health/form?

Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.2 PPG for Milwaukee, but he's out in this one most likely because of a knee injury he suffered last time out.

Expect Khris Middleton to pick up the slack here. Much like Atlanta winning without its star in Game 4, I believe Milwaukee can rally here and do the same here on its own floor. 

Note that Milwaukee is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 90 points or less in.

These are two tired and banged up teams. I say though that it's Atlanta which is primed for a letdown here after its upset win in Game 4. 

The Bucks are 5-1 ATS in their last six when playing on one days rest as well.

With its leader sidelined with injury, look for the home side to dig deep and to post a solid SU/ATS victory on Thursday night.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 2 STANLEY CUP FINALS TOP-PLAY is on the Canadiens.

Montreal was down 1-3 to Toronto in the first round, before then winning three straight. The Canadiens then took care of the Winnipeg Jets in four straight, before then needing six games to get past the Golden Knights.

In every series, the Canadiens have been the underdog and they're obviously once again a big underdog in this game and in this series. Especially after losing 5-1 in Game 1.

I think at this price range, that we're getting great value by getting the extra goal and a half in Game 2. I'll caution in over-reacting to one loss by Montreal, as it's been fantastic at making adjustments from game to game throughout these playoffs.

I'm not trying to diminish how great the Lightning really are, and their road back to a second Stanley Cup hasn't been any easier than Montreal's.

But at the same time, the Lightning sure haven't been perfect in this playoffs. They barely got by the Islanders in seven games and they've been susceptible to letdowns. I think that's going to be the case here. The outright upset is definitely possible. I'm not counting out Carey Price and this under-the-radar Canadiens team ever anymore.

The bottom line is I expect Game 2 to be much more competitive, so in a contest that I see being decided late, I'm going to lay the mid-sized price for the extra 1.5 goals. The play is Montreal on the puck-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 5 SHOW-DOWN is on the Clippers (analysis posted shortly).

Kawhi Leonard will not be playing in this contest, but I think that Paul George and this veteran Clippers team won't be going down without a fight.

George had 23 points and 16 boards in his team's 84-80 Game 4 loss. Reggie Jackson added 20 points. George though had an uncharacteristically poor shooting night, finishing just five of 20 from the floor and only one of nine from range.

Suffice it to say, I don't expect that to happen twice, especially with elimination on the line.

The Suns have been fantastic, exceeding everyone's expectations all year. There's also no question that they're in unchartered territory here. 

I think Phoenix is going to struggle to put away this desperate LA side. The Clippers earn a win here, and they have nothing to lose heading back home for a Game 6. 

Also note that the Clippers are 8-2 ATS in their last ten in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which they were held to 95 points or less in.

In what I expect to be another really tight game, I'm grabbing the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 3 TIE-BREAKER is on the Hawks.

I think this is going to be a war until the final bucket. Whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last is going to be the winner in my estimation, so because of that, I'm going to grab the points.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.9 points and 13.2 rebounds for the Bucks in this series, while Trae Young is averaging 29.4 points and 9.9 assists for the Hawks. 

Milwaukee was much better at home than on the road this year.

It's 32-11 ATS at home, and a mediocre 23-19 on the road.

Atlanta is better at home too than on the road, going 22-23 away from friendly confines and 28-13 ATS on its own floor.

In fact note, the Hawks are 20-6 ATS their last 26 here. Atlanta hasn't lost back-to-back games since May 1st and it's done a great job in making adjustments after a setback each time during the playoffs.

I look for that trend to continue here from Nate McMillan, who would have also been a great candidate for Coach Of The Year honors. 

Grab the points, but don't be shocked if it's outright.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*), is on the Dodgers on the run line.

I like LA to build off its 3-2 win yesterday, but to do so in much biggers fashion on Sunday night.

The visitors go with Adbert Alzolay (4-6, 4.19 ERA), who allowed three runs over four innings in a loss to the Indians last week. 

Overall Alzolay has been solid, but while he's 3-2 with a 3.86 ERA at home, he's just 1-4 with a 4.65 ERA on the road.

The home side counters with veteran Clayton Kershaw (8-7, 3.43), who comes in off a loss to the Padres on Tuesday, allowing three runs over six innings. He struck out seven and he now has a sharp 25/3 K/W over his last three games.

He's also been at his best at home, going 4-3 with a 3.06 ERA.

I simply don't trust Alzolay on the road, or this Chicago bullpen.

The correct call for me here is Kershaw and the Dodgers on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 3 THRILLER is on the Clippers.

Devin Booker and Chris Paul looked exhausted and out of sync in Game 3. I think that Paul George and the Clippers can take advantage here in Game 4 and post a second straight victory on their own floor.

Paul had 15 points, 12 assists and three steals, while Booker had 15 points in the setback. Paul was just five of 19 from the floor, while Booker was just 5 of 21.

George had 27 points and 15 points, while Ivica Zubac and 15 points and 16 boards. Patrick Beverely had a decent game with eight points and six boards, but he played really good defense against Booker and I expect the veteran to bring that same intensity tonight in Game 4.

The Clippers are now 5-0 ATS in their last five at home and they have the experience and home floor advantage to take Game 4 outright.

In fact, if not for a tight loss in Game 2, one which could have easily gone in favor of LA, this series would have an entirely different feel to it right now.

Even with Paul in the line-up for the Suns and Kawhi Leonard out for the Clippers, I don't think Phoenix is the better team.

It's been a great team all year, but it's in unchartered territory at this point. The Clippers are seasoned veterans, all playing with a chip on their shoulders.

I think LA is the better team and I expect it to even things up before heading back to Phoenix.

The play is the Clippers.

Good luck...Larry

The third part of my STP (an 8*) is on the Mets on the run line. 

I think Zach Eflin (2-6, 4.39 ERA) is better than what his win/loss record would indicate. I really do respect Eflin.

That said, he's completely overmatched here by the best pitcher on Earth right now and I absolutely expect the Mets to bounce-back here after last night's 2-1 loss.

Eflin most recently was shelled for seven runs off nine hits, including four home runs over five innings in a loss to the Giants.

He'll be opposed by Jacob DeGrom (7-2, 0.50), who comes in off a win over the Braves on Monday, allowing one hit over five scoreless. His numbers are just ridiculous and I believe he'll keep his momentum rolling here against this Phillies' line-up which hits much better at home, than it does on the road.

I'm laying the 1.5 runs and expecting a big New York victory.

Good luck...Larry

The second pick of my STP (an 8*) is on the PADRES on the run line.

I say the starting pitching matchup in this one is so lop-sidedly in favor of the home side, that I'm going to suggest laying the 1.5 runs for near pick-em price.

The visitors go with Corbin Martin (0-2, 8.62 ERA) who is being used out of necessity here. Out of his four big league appearances, two have been starts.

The Padres counter with Chris Paddack (4-5, 4.10), who is coming off his best start of the season, allowing two runs and striking out 11 over five innings in a victory over the hard-hitting Red Sox. 

Recent form is an important factor that I always take into account when assessing starting pitchers and in this case, I love Paddack to build off his last performance.

I expect San Diego to win big in this one. The play is the Padres on the run line.

Good luck...Larry

The third pick of my STP (a 10*) is on the DODGERS on the run line.

I say the starting pitching matchup in this one is so lop-sidedly in favor of the home side, that I'm going to suggest laying the 1.5 runs for the decent return.

The visitors go with the volatile Jake Arrieta (5-8, 5.45 ERA), who gave up six runs over three innings in a loss to the Marlins. He's now allowed four earned runs in consecutive outings and note that he's been at his worst on the road, going just 3-4 with a ballooned 6.55 ERA.

The home side counters with Tony Gonsolin (0-0, 3.00), who has allowed three runs off nine hits over his first three starts of 2021. Gonsolin has been sharp at home this season though, sporting a tiny 2.81 ERA.

Recent form tips the scales in favor of Gonsolin here. Expect LA to not only win today, but to win by a significant margin.

The play is the Dodgers on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

The first pick of my STP (an 8*) is the WHITE SOX on the run line.

I say the starting pitching matchup in this one is so lop-sidedly in favor of the home side, that I'm going to suggest laying the 1.5 runs for the big return.

Seattle goes with Yusei Kikuchi (4-3, 3.46 ERA), who has actually been superb of late. Hard to say too many negative things about Kikuchi, other than he has a poor bullpen. 

And Carlos Rodon (6-2, 1.83) is just on a different level right now as well in my opinion. He most recently allowed one run off three hits while striking out eight over seven innings in an no-decision to the Astros. 

I think the hard-hitting White Sox are in line for a big night at the plate here in this favorable matchup.

The play is Chicago on the run line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 7 DECIDER is on the Lightning PUCK LINE.

The last time these teams played here, the Lightning won by a score of 8-0.

Am I predicting another lop-sided destruction like that again here? 

Of course not. But I do expect Tampa to Game 7 handily.

This sets up well for Tampa. It has the experience and the home ice advantage.

The Lightning were 26-8-2-0 at home, while the Islanders are only 16-17-3-1 on the road.

Home ice has been crucial for each team in this series of late and I expect that strong trend to continue here.

Goaltending and defense, two of the most important factors, are a "wash" for me here.

The difference is Tampa's offense (and its experience in big games like this.)

Note that the Lightning are 63-17 in their last 80 after scoring two goals or less in their previous game.

They're also 65-25 in their last 90 when playing on one days rest.

It's been an awesome run for the Isles, but I look for Tampa to advance and to play Montreal.

The play is Tampa on the puck-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* RUN-LINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Astros.

The Astros destroyed the Orioles 13-0 on the road last night and I expect another blowout victory here for the visiting side as well.

And after three straight vitories, I do now believe that the Tigers are going to have a predictable letdown here in this unfavorable starting pitching matchup.

The visitors go with Luis Garcia (5-4, 2.82 ERA), who comes in off another strong out, this time going seven innings and allowing one run and striking out eight. He unfortunately received a no-decision for his spectacular effort.

He's better at home than on the road, but I still absolutely believe he's the correct call here, as he'll face volatile Tigers' starter Jose Urena (2-7, 5.79) who is off a loss to the Angels on Friday, allowing seven runs off seven hits over four innings. 

Over his last two starts spanning six innings, Urena has been rocked for 15 runs.

I like Houston to keep the good times rolling at the plate here against the erratic Urena, as I look for the Astros to not only win this game, but win by a significant margin.

The play is Houston on the run-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE FINALS Game 1 DECIDER is on the Bucks.

Am I impressed by the Atlanta Hawks?

How could you not be! Ever since Nate McMillan took over as head coach, this has been a "different" Atlanta team. Many feel McMillan should have actually won Coach Of The Year, instead of Tom Thibedeux. 

Regardless, a renewed commitment on the defensive end is the reason why the Hawks are where they are right now. They shut down Julius Randle and the Bucks and they did the same to everyone on the 76ers with the last name that's not Embiid.

And the Hawks did have troubles with the 76ers big man, who pretty much did what he wanted. 

The Bucks have a similar type player in Giannis Antetokounmpo (who is averaging 28.8 points and 13.6 rebounds in the playoffs), but he's even more dynamic and a bigger matchup issue overall in my opinion.

And the steady play of Khris Middleton is another issue that the Hawks will have to contend with.

I think the public is enamoured with Atlanta, but the sharp call is with Milwaukee to comfortably pull away down the stretch.

I'm laying the points, the play is the Bucks.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Clippers.

LA had its chances in Game 1. Paul George looked great. LA was unable to take advantage of a Suns side without star Chris Paul in the line-up in Game 1, but it'll try to do so here.

LA has been masterful in making game-to-game adjustments, even without start Kawhi Leonard in the line-up.

Devin Booker got the last laugh in Game 1, but George and the Clippers have played well in a revenge spot, going 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a road loss against an opponent in which they allowed 120 or more points in.

Phoenix had the advantage with a couple extra days off between series, and that helped down the stretch. LA though still has to be encouraged that it was right in Game 1 until the end, despite shooting a poor 45 percent form the floor. 

I say that LA can keep the foot on the gas for a full four quarters in Game 2. The outright upset is possible, but in the end my official recommendation will be to grab as many points as you can.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* RUN-LINE PERFECT STORM is on the Rangers.

I like the hungry Rangers to at the very least, keep this within a single run.

Texas enters off six straight losses, while after winning seven in a row, Oakland comes in off consecutive losses at the Yankees.

The bottom line is though, I think that these starting pitchers are evenly matched, and that swing the value to this hungry home dog in my opinion.

Frankie Montas (7-6, 4.21 ERA) is coming off a good outing against the Angels on Tuesday, allowing two runs over seven innings while striking out eight. 

He's actually been better on the road than at home, but note that he's also just 5-5 with a 4.54 ERA in all "night" contests.

Kyle Gibson (4-0, 2.09), also enters off another strong start, allowing one run over six innings in a no-decision to the Astros on Tuesday.

Gibson has been especially strong at home though, going 3-0 with a minuscule 0.97 ERA here.

As I say, I'm banking on Gibson getting the better of Montas today and while I do think the outright win is possible as well for the Rangers tonight, this is just too good price in my opinion to turn down on the runline.

The play is Texas on the runline.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 1 DECIDER is on the Clippers.

Two major players are out for each team. The Clippers are without star Kawhi Leonard, and the Suns will be without star Chris Paul.

LA advanced by taking out the Jazz in six games, while Phoenix swept Denver in four games. 

The Clippers took two of three in the regular season.

Paul George has filled in admirably though in place of Leonard and there's no reason not to think that he can't carry over that momentum here. George averaged 29.2 points to beat Utah.

Terance Mann had a career night with 39 points in the Game 6 win over the Jazz as well.

The big question here is, will rest lead to rust for the Suns? It might. And then throw in the additional factor of not having your floor general to guide them, this does indeed set up as a letdown spot for Phoenix in my estimation (note that they are in fact just 6-16 ATS in their last 22 when playing with three or more days rest.)

And conversely, the Clippers couldn't be more in-sync with each other right now, despite the absence of Leonard.

I thinks "Playoff P" is for real and while I do believe the outright victory is possible, in the end let's grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 8* RUN-LINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the White Sox.

In what I expect to be a tight game, I'm going to lay the mid-sized price for the extra 1.5 runs.

Chicago comes in hungry here after three staight losses to the Astros, while Houston enters complacent after six straight victories. 

Dallas Keuchel (6-1, 3.78 ERA) will be leaned upon here by Chicago to stop the slide. He enters off a strong victory over the Rays on Tuesday, allowing four hits over seven scoreless innings. 

Keuchel comes in red hot, as he's gone three straight starts in which he's gone at least six innings, while not allowing more than two earned runs. 

Lance McCullers (3-1, 2.89) returned from the ten-day IL to give up two runs over four innings in a no-decision to the Rangers on Tuesday. 

It was a decent performance against a weak hitting line-up. Clearly, McCullers is going to be tested today by this hungry White Sox line-up.

And one final factor I'll point out, note that Chicago is 7-2 in its last nine after three or more straight losses in a row.

I think there's great value on this mid-sized priced wager.

The play is Chicago on the run-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* GAME 7 DECIDER is on the Bucks.

If Kyrie Irving and James Harden didn't get injured, this series would be over.

But they did get injured. Irving won't be playing in this game, and clearly James Harden is far from being 100%.

Kevin Durant is playing out of his mind right now, but the veteran has to be fatigued at this point and I think that the depth and experience that the Bucks bring to the table in Game 7 will be the difference-maker in the end.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30 points with 17 rebounds and three assists for the Bucks in their dominant Game 6 victory and I can't see the short-handed Nets slowing him down tonight either.

Durant had 32 in a losing cause in Game 6, but Harden added just 16, while Blake Griffin had only 12 points.

Khris Middleton though had 38 points and ten boards for Milwaukee last time out.

I think Brooklyn's injury issues do now finally come back to haunt it here in Game 7. 

A healthy and focussed Antetokounmpo is the correct call in Game 7.

I'm on the Bucks.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* RUN-LINE GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Pirates.

After winning three straight, the Pirates have now lost ten in a row. Clearly, Pittsburgh has many issues across the board. 

That said, we also don't have to question Pittsburgh's collective resolve here to get off the schneid and back into the winners circle.

I think that's working in our favor here today, as I expect the Indians to get caught disinterested here in this non conference contest.

Cleveland has won seven of ten and it just swept the Orioles in four straight at home. 

This is the opener of four straight series on the road, but a letdown here seems imminent for Cleveland.

Jean Carlos Mejia (1-1, 4.26 ERA) has been OK in his limited time for the Indians, but he's largely untested and his 13/5 K/W over 12.2 innings isn't anything to write home about.

It's been a difficult season Pirates starter Chad Kuhl (0-4, 6.52), who allowed six runs over four innings in a loss to the Brewers on Saturday.

If Kuhl has had one bright spot on his resume though this season, it's been his play at home, where he has a 4.59 ERA, compared to a 7.74 ERA on the road.

Last year Kuhl was 0-3 with a 7.03 ERA on the road, and 2-0 with a 2.40 ERA at home. Clearly, Kuhl throws better at home than on the road.

I say this one means much more to Kuhl and the Pirates this evening and while I do think Pittsburgh can "steal" this one outright, in the end let's lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance. 

The play is Pittsburgh on the run line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10 PUCKLINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Canadiens. 

I had a play on Montreal in Game 1 and that obviously came up short. The Canadiens had been on quite the roll before that Game 1 performance, and they're going to now have to get creative here if they want to avoid an 0-2 hole.

These teams are similar in many regards, but the Canadiens are going to have to dial up the pressure on the defensive end if they have any hopes of getting back into this series.

Montreal though has acutally done exceptionally well in this spot for bettors, as note that it's 6-0 in its last six when playing with one days rest.

The Canadiens are also still 5-1 their last six as an underdog and 7-1 in their last eight against teams with winning records.

The odds are stacked against them, but I think Montreal makes the necessary adjustments to make Game 2 much more competitive. In a contest which I see being decided late, or even in extra time, I'm going to lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance.

The play is Montreal on the puck-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* WIPEOUT WINNER is on the Philadelphia 76ers.

This has been a back-and-forth series. I think that trend continues here, as I like Philadelphia to bounce back after the Game 4 loss.

It's all tied up now at 2-2, but the 76ers have to be feeling confident that they can recover at home.

Philadelphia actually had a 13-point half-time lead. Somehow the Hawks managed to claw their way back into it, despite 76ers big man Joel Embiid going for 17 points and 21 boards.

I had a play on the 76ers in Game 4, on the money line. Obviously I was not too happy the way that one ended.

The price is too steep to play on the money line here, but I'm expecting a decisive victory anyways.

The Hawks are still only averaging 107 PPG in the playoffs, while the 76ers lead all teams in the postseason with an average of 121 per contest.

Philadelphia is also a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four following an ATS loss, while Atlanta is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on this floor.

Look for the 76ers to answer here with a resounding victory after the Game 4 loss.

The play is Philadelphia.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* WEEKLY WIPEOUT WINNER is on the Brooklyn Nets.

The Bucks have evened this series back up.

Milwaukee has been less than impressive in this series though. It got destroyed in both games in Brooklyn, before then barely holding on for an 86-83 win in Game 3 at home.

The Bucks looked a bit better in their 107-96 win in Game 4, but they still could barely pull away, even with the injury to Kyrie Irving.

Now Irving is out for Game 5 and James Harden is also still sidelined with injury. But Kevin Durant is playing. And the Nets are still a deep and well-coached team.

It's now or never for Brooklyn's role players to step and contribute here. The Bucks have struggled with consistency from game-to-game, especially on the road.

The Nets have done well in this spot for bettors, going 13-3 ATS in their last 16 at home and a near-perfect 7-1 ATS in their last eight in trying to revenge back-to-back losses to an opponent.

I like KD to defend home court. Outright victory? I'd say it's worth sprinkling a little on the money-line, but in the end my official call will be to grab as many points as you can.

The play is Brooklyn.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PUCK-LINE PERFECT STORM is on the Lightning.

I had a play on the Islanders in Game 1, and they cashed out at +175.

Here though I think they're going to be completely satisfied with having already earned the split, while I expect Tampa to respond and risk life and limb getting into shooting and passing lanes to avoid the 0-2 hole.

These teams are very similar on both ends of the ice, except Tampa's offense is better. I said in my Game 1 analysis that New York had the defense to pull off an upset not only in Game 1, but in this series as well.

But to do that, many different things are going to have to fall into place for the Islanders. Do I think that New York is going to sweep the Lightning? Of course not. Do I think that the Isles will take both of these opening games in Tampa?

I don't either. I think that Tampa is going to respond and win today. But not only, win BIG. As note that the Lightning are a near-perfect 7-1 in their last eight playoff games in trying to revenge a home loss in which they were held to one goal or shutout in. 

Expect the Bolts to cruise to a sizeable victory in Game 2 and play on the puck-line.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Nuggets.

I thought Denver would put up a better fight than it has in this series. My hat goes off to the Phoenix Suns, who definitely look like the team to beat in the West this year.

However, I don't expect the Nuggets to get swept in this series. I believe Nikola Jokic will dig deep here and carry his team with his biggest game yet so far in the series and playoffs. And I do finally expect his teammates to give him support.

The Suns are dominating in almost every facet right now, so it's really difficult to say anything negative about Chris Paul, Devin Booker and company, but after three straight victories over this really good Denver team, I absolutely am now finally predicting a letdown here for Phoenix.

The Suns would love to clinch this series in front of the hometown crowd anyways! Obviously that's not really the case, Phoenix will try its hardest to end the series here and now, but with the knowledge that it can still do that at home in Game 5, it does add to our theory here of this being a "letdown" spot for the visitors today.

The Nuggets are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge a ten points or greater home loss to an opponent.

My "SITUATIONAL STUNNER" packages are based upon a great "situation" and this particular contest lines up great in every respect in my opinion.

While the outright is clearly possible, in the end let's grab the points.

The play is Denver.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Clippers.

It appears more and more that it'll be the Suns and Jazz playing for the Western Conference crown. I don't think the Clippers are going to get swept and if there's no better time than now if they're going to get back into this series.

The Jazz held serve on their own floor, but star Donovan Mitchell was seen limping back to the locker room. He'll play, but his health is a concern here for Utah. Especially with a 2-0 lead, it's hard to know exactly how hard to play Mitchell, or to continue to play him if they go down early in Game 3.

The Clippers return home and I think Kawhi Leonard and Paul George hae more than enough in the tank to get back into this series. LA has been great in this position for bettors as well, going 4-1 ATS in its last five as a favorite.

Utah on the other is just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 on the road against teams with winning home records.

And the Clippers did win at home, as they're 27-13 ATS overall here this season.

The stage is set for a LA bounce-back.

Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* WESTERN-CONFERENCE SEMI-FINAL PLAY is on the Nuggets.

The Suns have been impressive. They beat the Lakers in six games, but there was an asterisk beside that series win, because of the injuries to both Anthony Davis, Lebron James and others. 

Denver isn't at full strength either, with star player Jamal Murray suffering a season-ending injury about a month before the regular season ended.

The Nuggets' strength has always been their depth and experience though, and with league MVP Nikola Jokic now playing with a chip on his shoulder here in an attempt to get his team back into this series, I do indeed expect Denver to do just that in this crucial Game 3 at home.

D'Andre Ayton has so far been up to the task of "slowing down" Jokic, but note that the Suns have always struggled in this building, going just 3-7 ATS in their last ten on this floor.

An 0-3 hole will clearly be too much to climb out of. Will Barton and Michael Porter Jr. were non-existent over the first two games, but I say a little "home cooking" is just what the doctor ordered for Denver in Game 3.

Lay the short points, the play is the Nuggets.

Good luck...Larry

My 8* EASTERN-CONFERENCE SEMI-FINAL PLAY is on the Hawks.

Atlanta beat the Knicks in five games, and then it absolutely accomplished what it set out to do in the first two games in Philadelphia, and that was to simply earn a "split."

Now returning home, I think this deep and talented Hawks side under the guidance of Nate McMillan have what it takes to rebound here and take the series lead again.

Atlanta had a significant home-court advantage thoughout the regular season, going 25-11, and it's also 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it gave up 115 or more points in (lost Game 2 by a score of 118-102.) 

Finally, note that the Hawks are 4-0 ATS in their last four home games against a team with a winning home record, while the 76ers are just 1-4 ATS in their last five road games against a team with a winning home record.

Atlanta has covered the spread at home in almost 66 percent of its games on its own floor, which is No. 1 in the Eastern Conference. Philadelphia on the other hand has only covered the number in 47 perecnt of its road games thi syear, which is the eighth worst in the league overall.

I'll bank on Trae Young and these young Hawks bouncing back on their own floor in Game 3.

The play is Atlanta.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Bucks.

Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets have a 2-0 lead in this series, but there's no way (in my opinion right now anyways), that the Bucks are going to get swept in this series.

And what better time than now to try and get back into it with their first game back at home where they went 28-10 ATS this seaosn. Brooklyn has been decent on the road as well with a 21-17 ATS record, but it's still a lot better at home than away from friendly confines.

And so this is it for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Is he the MVP? Is he able to carry this Bucks team on his back in his own building to a single victory? He's so far been "OK" in this series, averaging 24.3 points and 13.7 boards per game. 

Milwaukee struggled with its outside shooting in Brooklyn, but I just can't see that trend continuing for a third-straight game, especially on its own floor. 

The Nets were one of the worst defensive teams in the league during the regular season, but somehow they've been amazingly consistent on that end of the floor now that the playoffs are here.

But with the continued absence of James Harden putting extra minutes onto KD and Kyrie Irving, fatigue is a major concern now for the Nets at this point as well.

In this essentially do or die scenario, I'm banking on Giannis doing more than enough to cover this small spread.

Lay the points, the play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

10* THIRD ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR on the Clippers.

It took the Clippers seven games to advance, but I think they can keep the momentum rolling here after back-to-back victories over the pesky Mavericks.

The Jazz have been off for over a week, and yes, I do absolutely think that "rest" will lead to "rust" here. 

Kawhi Leonard has refound his MVP form after a slow start to the playoffs. He enters this series off a huge Game 7, pouring in 28 points and grabbing ten boards with nine assists and four steals. Marcus Morris and Paul George have also found their stride.

Utah rolled over the Grizzlies in five games, but that was almost a week ago. Can Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert pick up where they left off?

I'll point out that the Clippers are 5-1 ATS in their last six on the road, while the Jazz are just 1-4 ATS in their last five when playing with three or more days of rest.

Timing and chemistry is crucial to success in the playoffs. The Clippers have "found their groove" finally in my opinion.

I'll stop short in calling for an outright upset, but in a contest which I see coming down to whichever of these talented teams has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points.

The play is LA.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* WEEKLY WIPE-OUT WINNER is on the Bucks.

I like the Bucks to bounce back here and find a way to "steal" Game 2.

So far in the playoffs the Bucks are averaging 116.2 PPG, while conceding 101.4. Clearly, Game 1 didn't go as planned. Expect to see another big game from star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is averaging 25.6 points and 14.2 rebounds.

The Nets are averaging 122 points and allowing 111.3. No big surprise that Kevin Durant has so far led the way offensively, as he's averaged 32 points and three assists so far. 

The loss of James Harden is a big one for the Nets. Now Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant have to log considerably more minutes. They're a handful, but the Bucks have to be liking their chances for a bounce back here (note that they're 5-2 ATS in their last seven when playing on one days rest.)

Milwaukee shot terribly from the floor in Game 1, which is very atypical. Look for the Bucks to come out and take advantage of what will be a tired Nets side.

Obviously the outright is possible, but let's grab the points.

The play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Hawks.

Whether 76ers' big man Joel Embiid plays or not, I like the visiting side to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Atlanta made the surging Knicks look like the Knicks of old in its opening round series win. The Hawks were dominant defensively, effectively slowing down the red hot Julius Randle.

Clint Capela is a force to be reckoned with down low for the Hawks, and he's an X-factor in this play for me.

Trae Young averages 29 points and 9.8 assists against a stingy Knicks defense, and there's no reason not to think those numbers can't improve here against a less impressive 76ers' defense.

With Embiid either out, or hobbled, the door is open here for Atlanta in Game 1. 

Nate McMillan has been a big difference-maker for Young and company and I believe he'll have something up his sleeve as well for the 76ers today.

Outright win? Of course. But in the end my official recommendation will be to grab as many points as you can.

The play is the Hawks.

Good luck...Larry

10* WEEKEND WIPEOUT WINNER on the Bucks.

This is going to be an interesting series. I think that Game 1 will be decided by whichever of these talented teams has its hands on the ball last, and in a scenario like that I'm definitely going to grab the points.

Milwaukee rolled to four straight victories over the Heat, while Brooklyn needed five games to get past the Celtics.

The Bucks led the league in scoring with 120.1 PPG. Giannis led the way with 23 points, 15 boards and 7.8 assists against the Heat.

The Nets averaged 118.6 PPG during the regular season. Kevin Duran, Kyrie Irving and James Harden played just eight games together in the regular season.

There are a couple of strong trends worth mentioning here, as Brooklyn is just 1-8 ATS in its last nine at home here against the Bucks, while Milwaukee is 7-2 ATS in its last nine as a road dog in the +3.5 to +5.5 points range.

As I stated off the top, this one is going to come down to the final moments.

Grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

10* ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR on the Lakers.

The question is. Can LeBron James dig deep here and rally whatever teammates he has around him to beat Chris Paul and Devin Booker at home here in Game 6?

The Suns rode 30 points from Booker to a big 115-85 win in Game 5. James had 24 points and seven assists for the Lakers.

Andre Drummond and Dennis Schroder were absolute "no shows" though for the Lakers, and I do expect a much better effort from each here at home. 

You simply can't count out King James in big games. He's also never lost a first round series in his career. Clearly, this is the Lakers biggest game of the year.

I just don't think the Suns have the experience to take out the defending champs on their own floor, especially with the knowledge that they have one last chance in their own building to finish it.

Phoenix has actually also been an absolute train-wreck in this spot for bettors, going just 1-4-1 ATS in its last six on the road and a terrible 0-6-1 ATS in its last seven following a win of more than ten points.

LA on the other hand is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a SU loss.

I say "The King" has enough left in the tank to push this series to a Game 7. 

Lay the points, the play is the Lakers.

Good luck...Larry

10* LEGEND on the Clippers.

Dallas won the first two games. LA won the last two games.

So far home-court advantage has been anything but in this series, but I expect that trend to end here.

The Clippers come in off a dominant 106-81 win in Game 4, as Dallas star Luka Doncic has just 19 points, while teammate Kristaps Porzingis added 18. 

Doncic had a neck strain that clearly affected his play and one has to wonder what his current form is here as well?

Kawhi Leonard has had a fire lit under him and now the Clippers are in "kill mode." Leonard has 29 points on 11 of 15 shooting in the Game 4 victory. 

LA looked great on the defensive end and in the transition game and with Doncic still ailing, I see an exact repeat of Game 4 occurring here in Game 5 as well.

The Clippers now clearly have the momentum back in this series and I expect them to ride the wave.

Look for LA to jump out to an early lead, and to never take the foot off the gas until it hears that final buzzer.

Lay the points, the play is the Clippers.

Good luck...Larry

10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the Cetlics.

I don't think that Jayson Tatum and the Celtics will go down without a fight. The Nets are obviously a really difficult team to play against with three bonafide superstars that can score at will. 

Tatum is averaging 30.3 points and five boards in the playoffs. Marcus Smart and Evan Fournier have experience, and note that Boston is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which it conceded 135 or more points in (lost 141-126 last time out.)

Tue Nets were unbelievably efficient with their shooting in Game 4, but despite the victory, they did struggle on the defensive end.

Outright victory? I'm definitley not calling for that. But I'll point out that the Celtics are a strong 9-3 ATS in their last 12 on the road.

I say the Nets have a small mental letdown here, leaving the backdoor open just enough for the hungry visiting side to comfortably sneak in through down the stretch.

Grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

8* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Grizzlies.

Memphis rode the wave from its two "play in" victories to an upset road victory at Utah in Game 1, but since then it's been the Jazz which has been the better team in this series.

Donovan Mitchell didn't play for Utah in Game 1, but he's been key in its success over the last two games.

Now, it's the Grizzlies turn to respond. The outright victory is definitely possible in my opinion. Memphis has already proven it can beat this Jazz team outright.

This will be the Grizzlies "best shot," as a 3-1 hole heading back to Utah is going to be just too much for this young team to climb out of.

Despite the Game 3 setback, note that Memphis is still 10-4 ATS in its last 14 as an underdog. 

Utah shot nearly 50 percent from the floor in Game 3. That's amazing. I don't see that happening again here. It also hit 19 three pointers. That's also not going to happen again.

This is a "must win" game for the Grizz and while they may not pull off the outright upset, everything in my opinion points to this one being a "nail-biter."

Grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

8* SITUATIONAL POWER-PLAY on the Leafs (PUCKLINE).

Toronto is the better team that's just been outplayed by a desperate Canadiens team the last two games.

It's difficult to beat a team three times in a row. This Game 7 sets up exactly the same way in which the Knights and Wild just played.

Minnesota clawed back and won two straight to push to a Game 7, and then the Knights destroyed the Wild 6-2. I had a big 10* +165 winner on the Knights in that one on the puck line.

And that's what I'm suggesting to do here as well. Toronto has major advantages on both ends of the ice. It also has the Game 7 home ice advantage as well.

Finally, note that the Leafs are 7-1 in their last eight in trying to avenge back-to-back losses against an opponent. 

I don't only expect the Leafs to win Game 7 of this opening round playoff series, I expect them to win BIG.

The play is Toronto on the puckline.

Good luck...Larry

8* RUNLINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Tigers.

Detroit won this series opener for a score of 3-2 in extra-innings last night and I expect another competitive battle here as well.

The Tigers definitely have the superior starting pitcher in this matchup as well in my opinion.

The visitors go with Deivi Garcia (0-1, 4.50 ERA), who returns to the Yanks after getting called up from Triple-A Scranton. 

Corey Kluber is now on the IL, so this move was done out of necessity obviously. Note that Garcia struggled in four Triple-A outings, posting a 5.17 ERA and 1.64 WHIP over 15.2 innings.

Spencer Turnbull (3-2, 3.12) gave up three runs over six innings in a no-decision vs. the Tribe in his last outing. Over 21.1 innings of work Turnbull has conceded just four runs, while also posting 19 strikeouts. 

Turnbull has gotten progressively better with each outing, and there's no reason not to think that he can't keep the good times rolling here with another solid performance against this struggling Yanks' line-up.

At this price, I love the home side on the run line here.

Good luck...Larry

10* WEEKEND WIPEOUT WINNER on the Heat.

Will Miami storm back and win four games in a row? Almost assuredly not.

The Heat surprised everyone last season with their timely run to the Finals, but since then they've struggled to gain that same consistency. 

Milwaukee has played very well to this point, but not spectacularly. Miami though has for sure struggled across the board, which is uncharacteristic over three sraight games.

Despite their win last time out though, note that Giannis and company are still just 1-4 ATS in their last five on the road.

And despite losing Game 3, note that the Heat are still 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight at home. 

I say Jimmy Butler and the Heat don't go down without a fight today. This is a proud organization, filled with experienced talent and while the outright may not occur, everything does point to this one being decided by whichever of these team's has its hands on the ball last.

In a scenario like that, I'm grabbing the points every time.

The play is Miami and the points.

Good luck...Larry

10* PUCK-LINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights are big favorits in Game 7. 

The Wild have earned back-to-back victories, including a commanding 3-0 victory in Game 6, but I believe Minnesota will now be "gassed" and I expect the opportunistic Knights to take full advantage.

Las Vegas has been outplayed over these last two games, but it has the experience and veteran leadership, as well as home ice to calmly bounce back in this position in my opinion.

Minnesota averages 3.21 GPG, which is eighth overall, but it's very average defensively, conceding 2.84, which is ranked 15th. The fact that the Wild managed to just blank the Knights as well, doesn't bode well for them here in Game 7 in my opinion.

The Knights though are among the league leaders on both ends of the ice, averaging 3.39 GPG, which ranks third, while allowing 2.18, which ranks first. 

I say that Las Vegas is the better team, that's just been outplayed the last games. I say that Minnesota is now dog tired and it's going to fall flat here.

However, I don't think that the Knights will just win here, I believe they're going to win by a signficant margin.

The play is Las Vegas on the puck line.

Good luck...Larry

10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Miami Heat.

With their backs against the wall and desperate to avoid an 0-3 hole, I like the Heat to dig deep here in Game 3 and find a way to win and cover.

Milwaukee barely held on for the 109-107 OT home win in Game 1, but it definitely looked like the better team in its 132-98 Game 2 victory.

Miami is interestingly 7-1 ATS in its last eight in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent in which it was held to 100 points or less in.

The Bucks were 28-10 at home this year, and a mediocre 20-16 on the road.

The Heat are 19-19 on the road, but 21-15 at home. I can't see Jimmy Butler held down for three straight games. 

Milwaukee is also just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while the Heat are 5-1 ATS in their last six at home.

17,000 people will be in attendance here for the Heat, and I say that matters!

Look for Miami to claw its way back into this series.

Good luck...Larry

10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the LA Lakers.

The Lakers didn't look great in Game 1. Over the last two years, the Lakers though have been fantastic at making adjustments from game-to-game and I absolutely expect that to be the case today.

The Suns had a few extra days off to prepare for Game 1, but I think LeBron James, Anthony Davis and the defending champs will indeed throw an entirely different look at Phoenix tonight.

There was plenty of on-court drama between LeBron James and Chris Paul in Game 1. Paul and Devin Booker looked fresh, but we can expect the Lakers tough-nosed defenders to play much more aggressively here on those two players.

LA even had a chance late, as they got very close, but it missed several wide-open three-point shots and was then never able to close the gap. 

Davis had a poor game as well, and said after that the Game 1 loss was his fault.

It's that type of veteran leadership which is going to help LA bounce back here in Game 2 vs. this younger Suns side.

In what I expect to be another tight game, look for the Lakers to ultimately pull away down the stretch, and to improve to 8-2 ATS in their last ten in trying to revenge a road loss vs. an opponent in which they were held to 90 points or less in.

The play is LA to STUN the Suns in Game 2.

Good luck...Larry

6* PUCK-LINE POWER-PLAY on the Predators.

This series is all tied up at two games apiece.

Carolina won the first two games at home, but Nashville has won the last two, both in OT in its own building.

Now the series shifts back to Carolina and I'm expecting another really tight battle, one which could easily see extra periods as well.

And that's the reason why I'm going to lay this price, to ensure that if that does happen, that we're covered with the extra 1.5 goals on the puckline.

"Momentum" is a very real, almost tangible factors in the playoffs, and the momentum in this series has clearly shifted.

The Predators don't score as much as Carolina, but their defensive numbers are almost identical (Carolina allows 2.39 GPG, while Nashville allows 2.75.)

We've seen a lot of scoring over the last two games, and they've been very competitive. Making adjustments in the playoffs is key to success, and the Predators have done just that.

Now it's time for the home side to do the same. In this all-important Game 5, look for these normally tough-nosed defensive teams to indeed double-down on that end and then look for this total to stay well under once the final horn sounds.

The play is indeed the under.

Good luck...Larry

10* RUN-LINE LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Blue Jays. 

Toronto got off to a great start this year, but it's been struggling significantly over the last few weeks.

The Yankees got off to a terrible start this season, but they enter this one as arguably the hottest team in the league.

The visiting side comes in hungry to break its slide and in a contest which I do envision being decided late, or even in extras, I'm going to lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

The Jays go with Steven Matz (5-2, 4.69 ERA), who enters off an outing to forget against the Red Sox, allowing five earned runs and striking out four over six innings in what turned out to be no-decision. Matz hasn't been perfect, but he's been the Jays most trusted starter this year, and note that he's actually been significantly better on the road this season (4-1, 3.39), than at home (1-1, 5.65.)

Corey Kluber (4-2, 2.86) has been great this year for the Yankees, but off his first career no-hitter, I absolutely expect immediate regression here. The same thing happend to Joe Musgrove earlier in the season, who also had a no-hitter, but then who got torched in the game immediately afterwards.

That may or may not happen to Kluber here, but either way, I do feel that the Yanks' starter is going to take a step back here after posting that historic performance last time out.

Combined with the fact that the Jays truly are desperate here to break a six-game slide, then I think the value for sure lies in laying a small price, to get an extra 1.5 runs.

So that's my call here, take the Jays on the run-line.

Good luck...Larry

8* play on the Celtics.

Yes, it's been a difficult for Boston. A transition season, and one filled with plenty of injury issues.

Despite that though, Boston is now in the playoffs and I believe it'll throw its "best shot" it has at the mighty Nets tonight. 

The Celtics didn't play well down the stretch of the regular season, but they looked great in their 118-100 play in victory over the Wizards. Jayson Tatum had 50 points, and he's going to be a matchup issue for this very poor Brooklyn defense.

Brooklyn won its final five regular-season games. Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden are clearly an unbelievable trio of talents, but they haven't ever played a lot of meaningful games together as a team. That's important at this time of year.

The Celtics have been to hell and back together and they know what it takes to win in the playoffs.

The players on the Nets have a lot of experience and individual successes in the playoffs, but never together as a team. 

I say that matters in Game 1.

I'm not calling for an outright upset, but much closer than what this spread would suggest.

Grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

10* WEEKEND WIPEOUT WINNER on the Heat.

The Heat made it all way to the NBA Finals last year, as they caught fire late in the season and then snowballed that momentum all the way until the end.

Miami beat the Bucks in five games in the ECF last year and I believe it'll at the very least, take today's game right down to the wire.

Jimmy Butler missed all three regular season games agains the Bucks, but he's back to 100% health, and I think he's a big time "X factor" in this game (and series.) Butler averages 21.5 points, 6.9 boards and 7.1 assists per game.

Miami also has three "lockdown" defenders to body up on Bucks' star Giannis Antetokuonmpo in Andre Igoudala, Butler and Bam Adebayo. 

Milwaukee is a great regular season team, but its big knock is that it can't perform in the playoffs. I'd argue, that Milwaukee's team this year isn't nearly as good as it was last season.

The Bucks may go on to exorcise their demons here in this series, but I expect them to come out flat in Game 1.

Grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

10* WEEKLY WIPEOUT WINNER on the Grizzlies.

My NBA Game of the Year was on the Warriors in their 113-101 regular season finale victory over these very Grizzlies, but for this final "play in" contest, I'm going with Memphis to exact a little revenge.

The Warriors enter off a tight loss to the Lakers, losing straight-up, but covering the spread.

The Grizzlies held on for a 100-96 victory over the Spurs, but they were unable to cover the 4.5 point spread.

Memphis is healthier right now, and that's going to matter after so many tight and important games. These players are giving their all, and the Grizzlies' depth is going to play a big part here.

Yes, Golden State has Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, but they're down James Wiseman, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Damian Lee.

Golden State is coming off a crushing last-second loss to LeBron James, and now it faces a revenge-minded Grizzlies team that loves to body up on teams and get physical.

Clearly, I believe the outright win is possible, but in the end let's grab the points.

Good luck...Larry

10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Wizards.

The Wizards came close to pulling off an upset in Boston, but now they'll have to play the Pacers here to see who gets the eighth seed in Eastern Conference.

Indiana is coming off a 144-117 win over Charlotte (I had the Pacers in that one), but I think it'll struggle to find the same energy here. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the home side has to be loving its chances for a bounce-back performance this year, as it took all three regular-season meetings between the clubs, winning 132-124, 154-141 and 133-132 in OT in Indiana.

Indiana got a huge performance from Doug McDermott and Oshae Brissett, with issues to Myles Turner, Jeremy Lamb and Caris LeVert. Malcolm Brogdon played in the victory, but he's questionable here as well.

The Wizards are tough on their own floor, and after the sub-par effort in Boston, they'll be out to push the pace from start to finish. They've been great in this spot recently for bettors as well, going 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 vs. the Eastern conference.

Washington is healthier and playing on its own floor. Everything points to a comfortable home side cover here in my opinion.

Play on the Wizards.

Good luck...Larry

10* PUCK-LINE PERFECT STORM on the Hurricanes.

Nashville threw its best shot at Carolina in Game 1 and it still got crushed 5-2. I expect a similar final discrepany in score here as well.

Nashville got to this point with its tough defensive play, as it entered the playoffs allowing 2.7 GPG. The Predators only average 2.7 GPG, and I believe they're going to once again struggle to find any momentum here vs. this Canes team which concedes just 2.3 GPG. 

Carolina is equally adept on the other end of the ice though, averaging 3.1 goals per game.

It's also very interesting to note that the Predators are now a poor 3-7 in thier last ten as an underdog, while the Hurricanes are 6-1 in their last seven after scoring four or more goals in their previous outing.

Carolina not only wins, it wins BIG.

Lay the 1.5 goals for healthy return!

Good luck...Larry

10* PLAY-IN GAME OF THE YEAR on the Pacers.

I don't think that the home-court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this contest.

The Hornets enter the playoffs banged up and with zero momentum, as they've lost five in a row. Overall they average 109.5 PPG, while allowing 111.4. Terry Rozier averages 20.4 PPG and 4.2 assists, while LaMelo Ball adds 15.7 points and 5.9 boards.

The Pacers have split their last ten games. Overall Indiana averages and concedes 115.3 PPG. Domantas Sabonis will be leaned upon heavily here with injuries to Brogdan and Turner.

Charlotte has a bright future, and even making it into the "Play-In" tournament is a huge accomplishment for it. The Hornets though are a terrible 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games and 2-6 ATS in their last eight as an underdog.

I won't try to convince you that the Pacers are a great team, as that's not the case. But this is a game that I think they can win handily (and note that Indiana is a sharp 5-0 ATS in its last five at home.)

Despite the injuries, Indiana is the smart play at home here in my opinion, as I look for Sabonis to lead his team to a comfortable win and cover.

For all the reasons listed above, the play is Indiana.

Good luck...Larry

10* PUCKKLINE GAME OF THE WEEK on the Avalanche.

Colorado steamrolled its way into the playoffs, finishing as the President Cup Trophy winner.

I don't only expect to see Colorado win this game, but I expect it to win handily. 

The margin of error is slim for St. Louis. In all honesty, I just can't see where its offense is going to come from. It only averages 2.9 GPG. It concedes 2.9 as well. As I said, clearly St. Louis is living on the edge most nights.

Colorado on the other hand averages a whopping 3.5 GPG, while allowing only 2.30. 

For arguments sake, let's call the goaltending units a "wash" in this series. Colorado still has such huge advantages, that I'd almost consider laying -2.5 goals in this opening game.

But we're not doing that. I'm going to play the -1.5 puck line here as I look for the Avs to send an early message to the Blues, and to the rest of the league that they're the team to beat.

Lay the 1.5 goals on the Avs.

Good luck...Larry

10* GAME OF THE YEAR on the Warriors.

To say this is a "big" game would be an understatement. Both teams come into this contes on fire as well.

Memphis enters having won five straight, while Golden State has also won five in a row.

The winner of this contest will secure eighth spot in the Western Conference playoff race, and in my opinion, home court advantage simply can't be overlooked as a very real deciding factor here.

The Warriors play with the added incentive of revenge as well after losing the most recent matchup between the clubs 111-103 back on March 20th. 

Overall Memphis averages 113.5 PPG, while allowing 112.3. Golden State averages 113.7 PPG, while allowing 112.8 as well.

This is a pressure packed situation, and who better to deliver than Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Andrew Wiggins and Kelly Oubre Jr. have also emerged as fantastic talents.

Listen, the Grizz are filled with great talent as well, and admittedly Jonas Valanciunas will be a matchup issue, but as stated above, I can't see the visiting side slowing down this veteran group on their own floor.

The Warriors are 5-0 ATS their last five at home and 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent in which they conceded 110 or more points in.

Lay the points, expect a decisive victory.

Good luck...Larry

10* WEEKEND WIPEOUT WINNER on the Bucks.

I like the Bucks to take care of business on their home court here.

THe Heat have won seven of eight, but they're primed for a letdown in my estimation in this difficult road venue. Overall Miami averages 107.9 PPG, while allowing 107.9 as well. 

The Bucks are equally as hot, and they're going to keep the foot on the gas here at home. Milwaukee has won seven of eight, and it averages 120.2 PPG, while conceding 114.3.

Milwaukee wins at home by an average of 7.2 points. After five straight losses against-the-spread, and playing with revenge after a 119-108 loss to the Heat on December 30th, I look for the home side to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable cover.

Lay the points, the play is Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the Grizzlies.

The Kings have won six of their past eight games, but off a 116-110 road loss here just last night vs. the Grizzlies, I expect an even bigger final discrepancy in the score in tonight's game for the home side.

Justin James exploded for 31 points for the Kings, and I am definitely not expecting "lighting to strike twice." 

The Grizzlies though have been steamrolling teams to end the season, healthier than they've been all year, they come into this one having won five of their last six games. Dillon Brooks had 30 points last night, while Jonas Valanciunas had 24.

This one means a lot more for Memphis, as it continues to jockey for playoff positioning. Scheduling is also working in its favor in the second game of the back-to-back.

This one has blowout written all over it. I expect the Grizzlies to STUN the books here, and to win handily by double-digits.

Good luck...Larry 

8* WEEKLY WIPEOUT WINNER is on the Nuggets.

The Nuggets aren't going to take the foot off the gas with the finish line so close in sight now.

Denver is 45-24 and it's won 11 of its last 14. Most recently it took down Charlotte on the road by a score of 117-112. Nikola Jokic had 30 points, 11 board and six assists. 

Minnesota has won six of nine, so the Nuggets won't be taking anything for granted here either. Most recently it won 119-100 at Detroit.

But hammering the Pistons is one thing, and beating Jokic and the Nuggets is quite another. Even on your home floor.

Denver has also dominated this series in this building, going 21-4-1 ATS the last 26 here.

Denver is in a dog-fight for positioning until the end. The thrill of playing spoiler doesn't last too long for teams out of contention. Look for the Wolves to have a letdown here vs. this powerhouse visiting side.

Lay the points, the play is Denver.

Good luck...Larry

10* ODDSMAKER ERROR on the Hornets.

The Clippers have split their last eight games, but I think they get caught looking past their opponent today. Outright win? Probably not, but I absolutely expect this one to be a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

LA averages 114 PPG, while allowing 107.8. Kawhi Leonard is averaging 25 points and 6.5 boards for the Clippers.

The Hornets are fighting, and they'll be hungry here after losing six of their last nine. Charlotte averages 109.7 PPG, while allowing 111.3. Terry Rozeir leads the nightly charge with 20.6 points and 4.2 assists per contest.

LA has struggled in this spot for bettors as well, going 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road.

The Hornets are healthier than they've been in a long time and this is an important game to them. Look for LA to come in complacent and for the home side to be risking life and limb tonight.

As I said above, probably no big outright upset victory, but I definitely expect a "nail-biter" until the end.

Grab the points, the play is Charlotte.

Good luck...Larry

10* NBA PERFECT STORM on the Hawks.

The Hawks just beat Washington 125-124. Russell Westbrook broke Oscar Robertson's triple-double record and I believe that without Bradley Beal in the line-up, that the visiting side will now struggle to match pace with the Hawks. 

Both teams are playing competitively until the end, but with back-to-back home games vs. Cleveland and Charlotte respectively, this is not only a letdown spot for the Wizards, but also a look-ahead position as well.

The Hawks are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 at home. Also note that Atlanta has won its last fie games by an average of 9.8 points, despite the one point victory last time out.

Nate McMillan has brought a winning attitude to his new team and I expect that drive to continue here.

Lay the points, the play is Atlanta.

Good luck, Larry

10* GAME OF WEEK on Bulls.

The Brooklyn Nets are 44-24, while the Chicago Bulls are 29-39. The Nets are already preparing for the playoffs, as they enter having lost four of their last five. Overall they average 118.6 PPG, while allowing 114.6. Kevin Durant averages 28.2 PPG with 5.2 assists.

The Bulls have split their last ten games, but they enter playing their best basketball of the season. They've won three in a row, beating Charlotte 120-99, Boston 121-99 and at Detroit most recently by a score of 108-96. 

Chicago already beat Brooklyn 115-107 in early April and I think it'll take the Nets down to the wire again here. 

Brooklyn is off the satisfying 125-119 road win at Denver (which was playing the second game of a back-to-back), and with a home game tomorrow night vs. the Spurs, this not only sets up as a letdown, but also a look-ahead in my opinion.

Now throw in the fact that Chicago is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more straight SU/ATS wins/covers in a row, then this one is all wrapped up for me.

The outright is possible, but I'm grabbing the points. The play is the Bulls.

Good luck, Larry